bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post-Election Reconciliation in 2024 as a Constitutional Convention in Indonesia: A Progressive Legal Culture Perspective
Authors: Prasetio Dicky Eko , Masnun Muh. Ali , Noviyanti Noviyanti
Published: February 2025

Post-general election reconciliation takes place to prevent polarisation and ongoing conflict after the general election in Indonesia. This research analyses and formulates post-2024 election reconciliation as a constitutional convention that must be implemented to maintain national unity and support progressive legal culture practices. The progressive legal culture refers to the character and culture of Indonesian society, emphasising the family dimension and noble values in society. This research is normative legal research, prioritising conceptual and statutory approaches. The research results confirm that constitutional conventions, as unwritten laws that must be obeyed, should fulfil several characteristics: repeated constitutional acts, substantially based on political ethics and constitutional morality, and having ethical binding force.Â  When recognised as a constitutional convention, post-election reconciliation should serve as a moral and ethical framework that guides political actors and society in maintaining unity. The implication of post-election reconciliation as a constitutional convention is that it has ethical validity and must be implemented; however, if such reconciliation is not observed, it cannot be fair for the judicial institution. This research recommends the institutionalisation of post-election reconciliation as a constitutional convention, ensuring that Indonesiaâ€™s legal culture prioritises morality and minimises societal divisions, safeguarding national unity and preventing social disintegration.
Facing Digital Age: Should the Regional Regulation Be Made Digitally?
Authors: Fatkhurohman Fatkhurohman , Sirajuddin Sirajuddin , Al Fatih Sholahudin
Published: February 2025

In forming a Regional Regulation, the Regent must interact formally with the Governor and the Ministry of Law and Human Rights through a facilitation and consultation evaluation mechanism. Providing recommendations for assessing draft regional regulations can confuse those proposing them because suggestions for improvements between the Governor and the Ministry of Law and Human Rights are not well coordinated and are carried out manually. This research aims to find a solution by optimizing coordination methods with digital application networks, especially in establishing regional regulations so that they occur quickly and accurately. This research will later be carried out using an empirical juridical approach, where researchers will delve more into primary data by discovering countless realities in the field regarding the effectiveness and efficiency of the implementation of evaluations by the Governor and the Ministry of Law and Human Rights during the implementation of the assessment of draft regional regulations. This research shows that coordination between the Governor and the Ministry of Law and Human Rights needs to be carried out jointly based on an agreement in evaluating regional regulation proposals so that assessments are distinct. To makeÂ  this process runeffectively and efficiently, it is better to do it online via a digital application.
Celebrity Persona: Can Intellectual Property Law in Indonesia Provide Adequate Protection?
Authors: Pamungkas Ayu Mustika , Hulwanullah Hikam
Published: February 2025

The vast economic turnover in the showbiz industry, which consistently involves numerous celebrities in merchandising activities as a form of product and service marketing, does not always yield positive impacts for the celebrities themselves. Numerous cases involve the unauthorized use of a celebrity persona, often resulting in legal disputes. This study aims to delve deeper into the legal protection of celebrity personas, particularly regarding their use by third parties, which may cause economic and moral losses for the persona owners. Employing normative legal research methods with a statute approach and conceptual approach, this research examines the issue from the perspective of intellectual property law in Indonesia. The study concludes that the protection of celebrity personas under intellectual property rights can be accommodated within copyright law by categorizing personas into "natural persona" and "created persona," enabling their protection under Indonesiaâ€™s Copyright Act.
Electronic Criminal Justice in Indonesia: Challenges and the Future Measures
Authors: Barlian Aristo Evandy A. , Latipulhayat Atip , Rusmiati Elis , Wulandari Widati , Sukma Ahmad Novindri Aji
Published: February 2025

Electronic trials represent a radical innovation within the judicial system, viewed as a means to simplify and facilitate access to justice for those seeking it. However, electronic criminal trials continue to present both legal and technical challenges. This writing aims to explore the development of electronic criminal trials in Indonesia and compare them with several other countries. It also outlines the issues and challenges involved, while proposing future measures to ensure electronic trials function as intended. The approach used in this paper is based on statutory and comparative methods. The findings indicate that radical innovations, particularly in electronic trials, highlight the need for sustainability, but also reveal legal and technical challenges. The legal aspect concerns the level of regulation within the Supreme Court Regulations, which ideally should be elevated to the level of the Criminal Procedure Code. There is also ambiguity regarding the criteria for implementing electronic criminal trials. Compared to the United States, where clear criteria are established, Indonesia lacks such clarity. On the technical aspect, challenges such as unequal access to the internet, network disparities, and limited human resources need to be addressed. For the future success of electronic criminal trials, it is necessary to establish clear regulations at the level of the Criminal Procedure Code; provide equal network access to ensure electronic trials can be conducted in all courts across Indonesia; improve the quality of electronic trial services, especially for vulnerable groups (such as the elderly and people with disabilities); and enhance data security systems to protect personal information, as demonstrated by Kyrgyzstan.
Profiling of the gut, skin and nasal microbiotas revealed clinically relevant microbial taxa from children with allergies: a pilot study
Authors: Hong Jiayi , Tang Zhiwei , Zhang Dongjun , Mo Chenqi , Su Wen , Shao Jie
Published: February 2025

Background

A reduction in biodiversity and alterations in the microbiota composition are relevant to allergic diseases. However, combined analyses of the skin, nasal and gut microbiotas are lacking in the literature. In addition, in previous studies, microbiota were detected mainly by V3–V4 sequencing, but other sequences might be missed with this technique.

Methods

In this case–control study, we enrolled 3–12-year-old children with allergic rhinitis combined with atopic dermatitis and food allergy (AR-AD-FA group), children with allergic rhinitis only (AR-only) and healthy controls (HC group). We employed full-length 16S rRNA gene amplification and sequencing for the detection of gut, nasal and skin microbiota.

Results

Samples with an average sequence length of 1,459 bp were obtained in this study. Significant differences in beta diversity in the three compartments were found between the disease groups and the HC group. Differentially expressed genera were present mainly in the gut compartment. Peptoniphilus, Prevotella and Anaerococcus were abundant in the gut in the disease groups. Specifically, Streptomyces, Thermus and Pseudomonas showed differential expression in both the nasal and skin compartments of children in the disease groups.

Conclusion

Some meaningful differences in the abundance of some microbiota from the three compartments were observed between the disease groups and the HC group. These findings could provide new insights into the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases through the regulation of specific microbiota in the future.
Plant and animal-derived fusion nanovesicles rescue inflammation-compromised osteogenic potential of periodontal ligament stem cells
Authors: Lin Jingxiong , Li Manchun , Wang Linglu , Lu Xingyu , Xu Quanle , Chen Hongbo , Dai Dongling
Published: February 2025

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the supporting tissues of the teeth and has emerged as a global public health issue. Current therapies primarily address pathogenic factors and alleviate symptoms, with limited options available for complete restoration and reconstruction of already absorbed periodontal bone tissue. In this study, we developed a nanotherapeutic strategy utilizing fusion nanovesicles (FVs) to modulate the inflammatory microenvironment and create a regenerative niche for periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs), which play a crucial role in periodontal tissue repair. The FVs are composed of Scutellaria baicalensis nanovesicles (SBNVs) with anti-Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and anti-inflammatory properties, combined with PDLSC membrane-derived nanovesicles genetically engineered to express TNFR1. These FVs preserved the biological activity of SBNVs and the immunomodulatory function of PDLSCs. Additionally, FVs effectively captured and cleared TNF-α from the microenvironment through TNFR1. Moreover, FVs alleviated the inflammatory response of PDLSCs induced by P. gingivalis-LPS (Pg-LPS) and TNF-α, restoring their proliferation, migration, and osteogenic differentiation capabilities. Hence, this nanotherapeutic strategy holds great potential for treating periodontitis.
Self-organized patterning of peristaltic waves by suppressive actions in a developing gut
Authors: Kawamura Koji , Kato Soichiro , Utsunomiya Shota , Takahashi Yoshiko , Inaba Masafumi
Published: February 2025

Gut peristalsis is a wave-like movement of a local contraction along the gut, and plays important roles in nutrient digestion and absorption. When peristaltic waves emerge in embryonic guts, randomly distributed origins of peristaltic waves (OPWs) become progressively confined to specific sites. We have investigated how this random-to-organized positioning is achieved using the caecum as a model in chicken embryos. While prominent OPWs, recognized as active (spontaneous) contractions, are located at endpoints of the intact caecum, other regions are also found to possess latent rhythm unveiled by fragmentation of a caecum into pieces, showing that the latent rhythm is normally suppressed in the intact gut. Analyses with caecum fragments demonstrate that the latent rhythm is spatially patterned in an early gut, to which negative impact by primitive passing waves contributes; the more passing waves a region experiences to undergo forced/passive contractions, the slower latent rhythm this region acquires. This patterned latent rhythm underlies the final positioning of OPWs at later stages, where a site with faster latent rhythm dominates neighboring slower rhythm, surviving as a “winner” by macroscopic lateral inhibition. Thus, the random-to-organized patterning of OPWs proceeds by self-organization within the caecum, in which two distinct mechanisms, at least, are employed; suppressive actions by primitive waves followed by macroscopic lateral inhibition.
Myocardial dysfunction caused by MyBPC3 P459fs mutation in hypertrophic cardiomyopathy: evidence from multi-omics approaches and super-resolution imaging
Authors: Wu Yupeng , Zhang Yuzhu , Zheng Qirui , Wang Qiyuan , Fang Xingyu , Zhu Zaihan , Lu Jing , Sun Dandan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mutations in the sarcomere protein, particularly in cardiac myosin binding protein C gene (MyBPC3), were the most frequent genetic cause of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM). The pathogenic MyBPC3 P459fs mutation has been reported in HCM patients. However, there was limited knowledge of the structure–function relationships and potential pathways in clinical HCM with MyBPC3 P459fs mutation.

Methods

We used multi-omics approaches and super-resolution imaging to explore the effects of MyBPC3 P459fs mutation on humans and cells. HCM patients carrying MyBPC3 P459fs mutation (MyBPC3-P459fs HCMs) and healthy controls (HCs) were evaluated for myocardial function using both conventional and advanced echocardiography. In parallel, H9C2 myocardial cells infected with either MyBPC3 P459fs mutation (P459fs cells) or its wild type (WT cells) were investigated for myocardial fiber formation and the potential pathways behind this using super-resolution imaging and metabolomics and proteomics.

Results

First, conventional and advanced echocardiography showed that MyBPC3-P459fs HCMs exhibited left ventricular diastolic and systolic dysfunction. Subsequently, super-resolution imaging indicated that P459fs cells formed fewer and shorter myocardial fibers in the cytoplasm compared to WT cells. Moreover, our metabolomic and proteomic data suggested several key components of mitochondrial membrane integrity, myocardial remodeling, myocardial energy metabolism, oxidative stress, inflammation, and actin binding capacity were significantly altered in response to P459fs mutation.

Conclusions

This investigation indicated myocardial dysfunction and myocardial fiber disarray in clinical HCMs with MyBPC3 P459fs mutation and added potential pathways underlying this. These findings provided a link between the observed structural and functional disorders in MyBPC3 P459fs mutation and its onset of HCM pathogenesis and might have a significant translational contribution to effective treatment in HCM patients with MyBPC3 P459fs mutation.
Magnetic core field anomalies in the non-axial field during the last 3300 years: approach with an equivalent monopole source
Authors: Rivera Pablo , Pavón-Carrasco F. Javier , De Santis Angelo , Campuzano Saioa A. , Cianchini Gianfranco , Osete María Luisa
Published: February 2025

The continuous update of the archeomagnetic database spanning the last 3,000 years has facilitated the refinement of geomagnetic field models, unveiling the presence of significant non-dipolar anomalies before instrumental measurements. Within the Holocene epoch, two anomalies have become notably well-defined. The South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA), characterized by low geomagnetic intensities in the South Atlantic region almost during the last millennium, stands out as the most significant present-day anomaly. In addition, the Levantine Iron Age Anomaly (LIAA) has been defined as a geomagnetic spike characterized by abnormally high intensities affecting Levant and Europe during the first half of the first millennium BCE. We analyze the spatial and temporal evolution of these anomalies using a straightforward model. Our approach involves fitting the non-axial field responsible for defining these anomalies with an equivalent monopole source situated in the proximity to the core-mantle boundary. Results indicate that the movement of the monopoles associated with SAA and LIAA seems to align with regions of the lower mantle characterized by low shear velocity, particularly the edges of the African Large Low Shear Velocity Province (LLSVP), suggesting a correlation with lower mantle heterogeneities.
Development and validation of a risk prediction model for 30-day readmission in elderly type 2 diabetes patients complicated with heart failure: a multicenter, retrospective study
Authors: He Yuxin , Yuan Yuan , Tan Qingzhu , Zhang Xiao , Liu Yunyu , Xiao Minglun
Published: February 2025

Background

Elderly type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) patients complicated with heart failure (HF) exhibit a high rate of 30-day readmission. Predictive models have been suggested as tools for identifying high-risk patients. Thus, we aimed to develop and validate a predictive model using multicenter electronic medical records (EMRs) data to estimate the risk of 30-day readmission in elderly T2DM patients complicated with HF.

Methods

EMRs data of elderly T2DM patients complicated with HF from five tertiary hospitals, spanning 2012 to 2023, were utilized to develop and validate the 30-day readmission model. The model were evaluated using holdout data with the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), calibration curves, decision curve analysis (DCA), and clinical impact curves (CIC).

Results

A total of 1899 patients were included, with 955, 409, and 535 in the derivation, internal validation, and external validation cohorts, respectively. Pulmonary infections (odds ratio [OR]: 3.816, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.377-6.128, P < 0.001), anti-hypertensive drug use (OR: 5.536, 95% CI: 1.658-18.486, P = 0.005), and neutrophil percentage-to-albumin ratio (NPAR) (OR: 1.144, 95% CI: 1.093-1.197, P < 0.001) were independent predictors of 30-day readmission risk. AUROC in the derivation, internal validation, and external validation cohorts were 0.782 (95% CI: 0.737-0.826), 0.746 (95% CI: 0.654-0.838), and 0.753 (95% CI: 0.684-0.813), respectively. The calibration curve, DCA results, and CIC results indicated that the model also possessed good predictive power. Additionally, an operation interface on a web page (https://cqykdxtjt.shinyapps.io/readmission/) was created for clinical practitioners to apply.

Conclusion

A 30-day readmission risk prediction model was developed and externally validated. This model facilitates the targeting of interventions for elderly T2DM patients complicated with HF who are at high risk of an early readmission.
Machine learning-driven ultrasound radiomics for assessing axillary lymph node burden in breast cancer
Authors: Wang Si-Rui , Tian Feng , Zhu Tong , Cao Chun-Li , Wang Jin-Li , Li Wen-Xiao , Li Jun , Hou Ji-Xue
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study explores the value of combining intratumoral and peritumoral radiomics features from ultrasound imaging with clinical characteristics to assess axillary lymph node burden in breast cancer patients.

Methods

A total of 131 breast cancer patients with axillary lymph node metastasis (ALNM) were enrolled between June 2019 and September 2024. Patients were divided into low (n=79) and high (n=52) axillary lymph node burden (ALNB) groups. They were further split into training (n=92) and validation (n=39) cohorts. Intratumoral and peritumoral features were analyzed using the maximum relevance minimum redundancy (MRMR) and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) methods. Six machine learning models were evaluated, and a combined clinical-radiomics model was built.

Results

The combined logistic regression model exhibited superior diagnostic performance for high axillary lymph node burden, with areas under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.857 in the training cohort and 0.820 in the validation cohort, outperforming individual models. The model balanced sensitivity and specificity well at a 52% cutoff value. A nomogram provided a practical risk assessment tool for clinicians.

Conclusion

The combined clinical-radiomics model showed excellent predictive ability and may aid in optimizing management and treatment decisions for breast cancer patients.
A case report of oculopharyngodistal myopathy with 126 CGG repeat expansions in RILPL1
Authors: Wang Wenjing , Yin Tielun , Zhang Xinyu , Wang Zhaoxia , Wang Tianyun , Zhang Shuo , Zhang Yingshuang , Fan Dongsheng
Published: February 2025

Background

Oculopharyngodistal myopathy (OPDM) is a rare hereditary muscle disease characterized by progressive ptosis, ophthalmoplegia, dysphagia, dysarthria, and distal muscle weakness. The genetic basis was identified in 2019 with CGG repeat expansions in the noncoding region of LRP12. Similar expansions in GIPC1, NOTCH2NLC, and RILPL1 were later linked to OPDM, classifying the disease into OPDM1-4. OPDM4, associated with RILPL1, was discovered in 2022 with a few confirmed cases worldwide, leaving its clinical features and pathogenic mechanisms largely unexplored.

Case presentation

We present a patient with OPDM4 who had suffered progressive ptosis, external ophthalmoplegia, pharyngeal weakness, facial muscle weakness, and distal limb weakness over the past 20 years. Electromyography (EMG) revealed myogenic damage and normal H-reflex latency. A biopsy of the left biceps brachii revealed myogenic changes with atypical rimmed vacuoles in some muscle fibers. Screening for extra-muscular system involvement revealed no obvious involvement of the heart or central nervous system. Genetic analysis confirmed 126 CGG repeat expansions in RILPL1 and excluded abnormal CGG repeat expansions in LRP12, GIPC1, and NOTCH2NLC.

Conclusion

This case broadens the spectrum of CGG repeat numbers in the RILPL1 gene associated with OPDM4. In addition, systematic medical examinations revealed several new characteristics of OPDM4, which have not been reported previously, such as normal H reflex, potential mild cognitive impairment, etc. These findings expand our knowledge of the phenotypic spectrum of diseases caused by repeat CGG expansions in RILPL1.
Identification of immune subtypes associated with CD8+ T cell-related genes providing new treatment strategies of esophageal carcinoma
Authors: Wu Youyi , Lin Chen , Qian Yuchen , Huang Xiaowei , Xu Yajing , Li Jiayi , He Youdi , Xie Congying , Su Huafang
Published: February 2025

Background

CD8+ T lymphocytes greatly affect the efficacy of immunotherapy, displaying promising potential in various tumors. Here, we aimed to identify immune subtypes associated with CD8+ T cell-related genes to predict the efficacy of treatment in esophageal cancer (ESCA).

Methods

We obtained 13 immune cell-related datasets from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database and removed batch effects. Weighted correlation network analysis (WGCNA) and co-expression analysis were performed to identify highly correlated CD8+ T cell genes. Cox analysis was used to process ESCA clinical information, and the immune clusters (ICs) were constructed through consensus cluster analysis. Furthermore, we constructed an immune risk score model to predict the prognosis of ESCA based on these CD8+ T cell genes. This model was verified using the IMvigor210 dataset, and we functionally validated the immune risk score model in vitro.

Results

The results revealed significant correlations between CD8+ T cell-related genes and immune-related pathways. Three ICs were identified in ESCA, with IC3 demonstrating the most favorable prognosis. The final 6-gene prognostic risk model exhibited stable predictive performance in datasets across different platforms. Compared with that in normal esophageal epithelial (HEEC cells), CHMP7 in the 6-gene prognostic risk model was upregulated in KYSE150 and TE-1 cells. Si-CHMP7 transfection led to a decrease in tumor cell migration, invasion, and proliferation, accompanied by an accelerated apoptotic process.

Conclusions

Collectively, we identified the immune subtypes of CD8+ T cell-related genes with different prognostic significance. We designated CHMP7 in the 6-gene prognostic risk model as a potential target to improve tumor cell prognosis. These insights provide a strong basis for improving prognosis and facilitating more personalized and accurate treatment decisions for the immunotherapy of ESCA.
Identify the potential target of efferocytosis in knee osteoarthritis synovial tissue: a bioinformatics and machine learning-based study
Authors: Niu Shangbo , Li Mengmeng , Wang Jinling , Zhong Peirui , Wen Xing , Huang Fujin , Yin Linwei , Liao Yang , Zhou Jun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Knee osteoarthritis (KOA) is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the progressive deterioration of cartilage and synovial inflammation. A critical mechanism in the pathogenesis of KOA is impaired efferocytosis in synovial tissue. The present study aimed to identify and validate key efferocytosis-related genes (EFRGs) in KOA synovial tissue by using comprehensive bioinformatics and machine learning approaches.

Methods

We integrated three datasets (GSE55235, GSE55457, and GSE12021) from the Gene Expression Omnibus database to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with efferocytosis and performed weighted gene co-expression network analysis. Subsequently, we utilized univariate logistic regression analysis, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator regression, support vector machine, and random forest algorithms to further refine these genes. The results were then inputted into multivariate logistic regression analysis to construct a diagnostic nomogram. Public datasets and quantitative real-time PCR experiments were employed for validation. Additionally, immune infiltration analysis was conducted with CIBERSORT using the combined datasets.

Results

Analysis of the intersection between DEGs and EFRGs identified 12 KOA-related efferocytosis DEGs. Further refinement through machine learning algorithms and multivariate logistic regression revealed UCP2, CX3CR1, and CEBPB as hub genes. Immune infiltration analysis demonstrated significant correlations between immune cell components and the expression levels of these hub genes. Validation using independent datasets and experimental approaches confirmed the robustness of these findings.

Conclusions

This study successfully identified three hub genes (UCP2, CX3CR1, and CEBPB) with significant expression alterations in KOA, demonstrating high diagnostic potential and close associations with impaired efferocytosis. These targets may modulate synovial efferocytosis-related immune processes, offering novel therapeutic avenues for KOA intervention.
Research on fishing vessel recognition based on vessel behavior characteristics from AIS data
Authors: Han Xiao , Zhou Yang , Weng Jianjun , Chen Lijia , Liu Kang
Published: February 2025

The Automatic Identification System (AIS) is one of the most important navigation assistance systems and plays a pivotal role in vessel monitoring. However, some fishing vessels disguise themselves as other vessel types during fishing bans to engage in illegal fishing activities, causing significant damage to marine ecosystem. To address this challenge and accurately identify vessel types, a BP-AdaBoost classification algorithm is developed by integrating backpropagation (BP) neural networks with ensemble learning techniques. The proposed algorithm leverages the AdaBoost method to combine multiple BP neural network weak classifiers into a strong classifier, effectively mitigating the slow convergence rate and susceptibility to local optima inherent in BP neural networks. By configuring the output nodes of the BP neural network to match the number of target classes, the AdaBoost algorithm achieves robust multi-class classification functionality. Historical AIS data are analyzed to extract static features, vessel behavior features, and temporal features for vessel classification. To minimize model overfitting, the Maximal Information Coefficient algorithm is employed to assess feature importance, and optimal feature combinations are determined through systematic feature selection experiments. Experiments are conducted using AIS data from the Pearl River Estuary in China, targeting the classification of cargo ships, fishing vessel, tanker, and passenger ships. The performance of the proposed method is compared with other machine learning algorithms. The results demonstrated classification accuracies of 90.8% for cargo ships, 95.6% for fishing vessels, 97.5% for tankers, and 98% for passenger ships, with an overall classification accuracy of 95%. Additionally, the BP-AdaBoost algorithm exhibited superior performance across other classification evaluation metrics. Specifically, the proposed algorithm outperformed the BP neural network by 4.5% and the support vector machine by 12.6% in overall classification accuracy. These findings indicate that the BP-AdaBoost algorithm is capable of effectively identifying vessel types based on historical trajectory data, providing a solid foundation for combating illegal fishing, detecting abnormal vessels, and identifying irregular vessel behaviors.
Knowledge map in biomaterials and related immune response: a scientometric analysis
Authors: Yu Chongqing , Xu Chi , Wang Tao , Xu Jie
Published: February 2025

Background

Biomaterials have seen extensive use in biomedicine in the past decade. However, being foreign substances when implanted in the human body, they inevitably trigger immune responses. This study aimed to summarize existing articles on biomaterials and immune responses and explore their latest trends.

Methods

We used the Web of Science Core Collection database (WoSCC) to access literature related to biomaterials and immune response. This comprehensive review of the knowledge domain allowed us to identify potential future research directions.

Results

In this study, we analyzed 5,993 articles on biomaterials and immune response published between 1990 and 2022. Badylak, SF, stood out with the highest number of publications, the highest h-index, and the most average citations. The Journal of Biomaterials secured the top position as the most productive journal with the highest citation count. The emerging research hotspots are centered in regeneration medicine around keywords such as “biocompatibility,” “wound healing,” “osteogenesis,” “angiogenesis,” and “bone regeneration.”

Conclusion

The present study summarizes the global trends in biomaterials and immune response. Future efforts should concentrate on advancing the application of biomaterials in the medical field, conducting in-depth mechanistic studies, exploring the intricacies of immune responses, and ensuring the biosafety of biomaterials.
Preoperative imaging biomarkers combined with tap test for predicting shunt surgery outcome in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus: a multicenter retrospective study
Authors: Gao Wei , Liu Wei , Ying Yuqi , Zeng Qingze , Wang Jiadong , Lin Jingquan , Guo Xinxia , Jiang Hongjie , Zheng Zhe , Zhu Zhoule , Zhu Junming
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The study aims to investigate the predictive performance of preoperative imaging features combined with tap test for the outcomes of ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt in idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH).

Methods

In this multicenter retrospective study, 166 iNPH patients who underwent VP shunt surgery between August 2019 and November 2023 were included. Preoperative clinical characteristics and imaging features were collected. Preoperative clinical assessment and at least 3 months of postoperative follow-up were performed. Multivariable logistic regression, sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were used to evaluate predictive performance.

Results

Out of 166 total patients, 96 were responders and 70 non-responders. The tap test showed significant difference between two group (p < 0.01). Multivariable logistic regression identified that a positive disproportionately enlarged subarachnoid space (DESH) sign (OR = 0.09, 95% CI: 0.04–0.22, p < 0.001) and a sharper callosal angle (CA) (OR = 0.97, 95% CI: 0.95–1.00, p = 0.02) were associated with symptom improvement after shunt. The sensitivity, specificity, and AUC of tap test were 0.64, 0.60, and 0.62, respectively. Combining CA and the tap test increased sensitivity to 0.85, while combining DESH, CA, and the tap test improved specificity and AUC to 0.67 and 0.72, respectively.

Conclusion

The findings suggest that the imaging features DESH and CA, when combined with the tap test, enhance the prediction of VP shunt outcomes in iNPH patients. Despite the improved predictive capability, further research focusing on innovative biomarkers for VP shunt is warranted.
Clinical, genotypic, and neuropsychological profile in a series of patients with Niemann-Pick type C disease
Authors: dos Santos Mendes Rita , do Valle Daniel Almeida , dos Santos Bara Tiago , Furlin Vanessa , da Silva Zeny Michelle , Schmitz Ferreira Santos Mara Lúcia , Cordeiro Mara L.
Published: February 2025

Background

Niemann-Pick type C (NPC) disease is a rare neurodegenerative disorder with a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations and genetic variability. This cross-sectional study aimed to comprehensively describe the neuropsychological impact of NPC and investigate its correlation with specific genotypes.

Results

Eight patients from six unrelated families were included in this study. Their age at symptom onset ranged between 2 and 16 years, with all patients presenting with ataxia, dysarthria, and cognitive impairment. Following the initiation of miglustat treatment, five patients showed a decrease in the Scale for the Assessment and Rating of Ataxia (SARA) score, whereas three demonstrated subsequent increases. Five patients underwent brain magnetic resonance imaging scans, revealing white matter abnormalities and/or brain volumetric reduction in three cases. Despite the small sample size, the overall cognitive performance of the cohort was significantly below the average. The Family Environment Scale highlighted positive structural patterns, particularly regarding Personal Growth and System Maintenance. Genetic analysis identified five mutations in the NPC1 gene that correlated with the severity of impairments and clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

This study indicated a consistent association between cognitive and behavioral impairments, with severity correlating with age and specific genetic variants. Notably, one subgroup showed a higher prevalence of psychotic and behavioral symptoms, suggesting a potential link with specific genetic variants.
Dynamic skeletal muscle loss and its predictive role on 90-day mortality in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure
Authors: Geng Nan , Kong Ming , Zhang Jiateng , Xu Manman , Chen Huina , Song Wenyan , Chen Yu , Duan Zhongping
Published: February 2025

Background

Low skeletal muscle mass is an independent risk factor for increased mortality in patients with acute-on-chronic liver failure (ACLF). However, no study has evaluated the temporal changes in muscle mass during the course of ACLF. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the dynamic changes in muscle mass and their prognostic role in patients with ACLF.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on consecutive patients with ACLF who underwent two or more abdominal computed tomography examinations within 90 days of admission. The percentage change rates of the skeletal muscle index at the third lumbar vertebra (L3-SMI) were calculated as (L3-SMIfinal - L3-SMIinitial)/(L3-SMIinitial) × 100%.

Results

A total of 154 patients with ACLF were included. During the course of ACLF, the percentage change rates of L3-SMI at 2–7, 8–14, 15–30, 31–60, and 61–90 days were − 0.83 ± 4.43, −3.76 ± 4.40, −7.30 ± 5.89, −10.10 ± 7.45, and − 5.53 ± 9.26, respectively. Significant reductions in L3-SMI were noted in patients with severe conditions compared to other patients at 2–7 days and 15–30 days. Moreover, the rate of decrease in L3-SMI in patients with a lower respiratory quotient (RQ) was significantly greater than that in patients with a normal RQ at 2–7 days and 15–30 days. Additionally, high muscle loss (HR 2.059; 95% CI 1.122–3.780, p = 0.020), rather than pre-existing sarcopenia (HR 1.430; 95% CI 0.724–2.826, p = 0.303) at baseline, was independently associated with 90-day mortality.

Conclusion

Deterioration in muscle mass is associated with disease severity and poor nutritional status and serves as a more effective predictor of adverse short-term outcomes in patients with ACLF. These findings underscore the importance of dynamic evaluation of muscle loss and emphasize the necessity of reversing muscle loss in patients with ACLF.
Association between dietary oxidative balance score and constipation: evidence from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Shi Zhangpeng , Wang Dandan , Yu Jiacheng , Zhou Mengting , Du Jiahao , Qin Huanlong , Zhu Huiyuan
Published: February 2025

Background

Numerous researches have revealed a correlation between dietary factors and the development of constipation. This study aimed to investigate the association between dietary oxidative balance score (DOBS) and constipation.

Materials and methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted by us based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2005 to 2010 including 31,034 individuals who completed a constipation questionnaire. The DOBS was calculated based on 16 dietary factors, containing 14 antioxidants and two prooxidants. Multiple logistic regression and restricted cubic spline (RCS) analyses were employed to examine the correlation between DOBS and constipation. Meanwhile, propensity score matching (PSM) was chosen to eliminate the effect of confounding variables.

Results

A total of 11,019 participants were identified as constipation. After adjusting for potential confounding variables, multiple logistic regression analysis indicated that decreasing DOBS (OR = 0.977, 95% CI: 0.966–0.987, p < 0.001) was apparently associated with increased risk of constipation incidence. Notably, the occurrence of constipation increased with reduced level of DOBS, as compared to Q1 (Q2, OR = 0.820, 95% CI, 0.682–0.988, p = 0.037; Q3, OR = 0.797, 95% CI, 0.653–0.973, p = 0.026; Q4, OR = 0.648, 95% CI, 0.528–0.797, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Low levels of DOBS were positively associated with the risk of constipation development, demonstrating that DOBS could be employed as a dietary indicator of constipation prevention.
Serum inflammatory factors, vitamin D levels, and asthma severity in children with comorbid asthma and obesity/overweight: a comparative study
Authors: Jiang Wan-yu , Jiao Rong-hong , Ma Su-li , Dai Jin-sheng , Zhu Hai-feng , Wu Meng-ya , Che Yan-ran , Zhang Lei , Ding Xiao-yuan
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate serum inflammatory factors, vitamin D levels, and asthma severity in children with comorbid asthma and obesity/overweight, compared with those with asthma or obesity/overweight alone.

Methods

This retrospective comparative study included children suffering from asthma alone, asthma combined with obesity/overweight, or obesity/overweight alone at Shanghai Pudong New Area People's Hospital between January 2020 and December 2021.

Results

A total of 168 children (mean age: 4.32 ± 1.64 years; 117 males) were included. Compared with children with asthma alone (n = 56), those with comorbid asthma and obesity/overweight (n = 56) exhibited higher levels of serum levels of interleukin 6 (IL-6) (35.75 ± 24.56 vs. 15.40 ± 19.67), TNF-α (15.44 ± 7.35 vs. 12.16 ± 7.24), and leptin (3.89 ± 3.81 vs. 1.27 ± 2.31), and lower levels of 25-hydroxycholecalciferol (25-(OH) D3) (26.03 ± 10.77 vs. 37.15 ± 13.35), IL-10 (8.69 ± 2.76 vs. 15.32 ± 6.28), and IL-13 (449.40 ± 315.37 vs. 605.27 ± 351.02) (all P < 0.05). Compared with children with obese/overweight alone (n = 56), those with comorbid asthma and obesity/overweight had lower IL-10 (8.69 ± 2.76 vs. 12.29 ± 6.61) and higher IL-6 (35.75 ± 24.56 vs. 20.53 ± 17.07), IL-13 (449.40 ± 315.37 vs. 309.47 ± 257.45), and leptin (3.89 ± 3.81 vs. 2.48 ± 3.52) (all P < 0.05). Children with comorbid asthma and obesity/overweight showed higher Preschool Respiratory Assessment Measure (PRAM) scores (3.14 ± 2.40 vs. 1.93 ± 1.02, P = 0.008) and longer hospital stays (5.96 ± 1.25 vs. 5.29 ± 1.36 days, P = 0.007) compared to those with asthma alone.

Conclusions

Significant differences were observed in IL-6, IL-10, IL-13, 25-(OH) D3 levels, and leptin among children with asthma combined with obesity/overweight and those with asthma or obesity/overweight alone. Children with obesity/overweight alone displayed more severe clinical manifestations and longer hospital stays compared with those with asthma alone.
Evaluation of the etiology of epilepsy and/or developmental delay in children via next-generation sequencing: a single-center experience
Authors: Kava Handan , Akgun-Dogan Ozlem , Yesilyurt Ahmet , Alanay Yasemin , Isik Ugur
Published: February 2025

Background

We aimed to understand the genetic etiology in children presenting with epilepsy and/or developmental delay by using next-generation sequencing (NGS).

Materials and methods

We included children presenting to our pediatric neurology clinic with a diagnosis of epilepsy and/or developmental delay between January 2019 and December 2021. We evaluated the patients using the NGS equipment in our genetic laboratory.

Results

In total, 90 patients were included in the study. Twenty (34.4%) out of 58 patients who had undergone whole-exome sequencing (WES) had pathogenic or likely pathogenic (P/LP) variants and 11 (18.9%) had variants of unknown significance (VUS). Five (41.6%) out of 12 patients who had undergone whole-genome sequencing had P/LP variants and 5 (41.6%) had VUS. Eleven (55%) out of 20 patients who had undergone WES and chromosomal microarray had P/LP variants and 2 (10%) had VUS. Twenty-six novel variants were described. Twelve patients (13.3%) were diagnosed using a known specific treatment.

Conclusion

NGS aids in precisely diagnosing children with epilepsy and/or developmental delay. Furthermore, it provides a correct prognosis, specific treatment methods, and a multidisciplinary approach.
Anti-aging activities of an ethanolic extract of Lycium ruthenicum in Caenorhabditis elegans based on metabonomic analysis
Authors: Cui Boya , Liu Lanying , Qiao Xinmeng , Shi Tao , Yin Min , Xu Shu , Feng Xu , Shan Yu
Published: February 2025

The fruits of Lycium ruthenicum Murr. (Solanaceae) are employed in ethnomedicine and used as a functional food. Their antioxidant, anti-aging, and hypolipidemic activities have been investigated in modern research. This study indicated that the ethanolic extract of the fruits of L. ruthenicum Murr. (LRM) improved oxidative and heat stress tolerance, reduced the accumulation of lipofuscin, and retarded the aging process in Caenorhabditis elegans (Rhabditidae). Furthermore, the pharyngeal pumping rate and body length decreased under LRM treatment. Moreover, metabolomic analysis and the DPClusO algorithm revealed that LRM regulated a series of lifespan-related pathways centered on glycine, serine, and threonine metabolism. These results suggest that LRM prolongs the lifespan of Caenorhabditis elegans via dietary restriction. Moreover, feruloyl putrescine, a kind of polyamine, was found in differential metabolites, which may be the metabolite of caffeoyl-spermidine in LRM. These findings from this exploratory study offer a new insight into the roles of L. ruthenicum in anti-aging activity as a functional food.
A novel method based on lesion expansion to assess plant disease severity
Authors: Qin Feng , Wang Haiguang , Jiang Qian , Wang Hongli
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Severity is a key indicator utilized in plant disease monitoring and pathogen-plant interaction phenotyping.

Methods

A plant disease severity assessment method based on lesion expansion was proposed in this study to more accurately and quickly assess the severity of plant diseases for which the lesion area ratio of an investigated plant unit at each severity class in the corresponding severity grading standard is not the actual ratio of the lesion area to the area of the whole investigated plant unit. By taking wheat stripe rust caused by Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici as an example, after image segmentation operations of single diseased wheat leaves with wheat stripe rust, lesion expansion processing was carried out using nine method combinations of three proposed lesion expansion methods and three proposed lesion expansion coefficient determination methods, and then the severity assessments of single diseased wheat leaves were conducted.

Results

The results showed that the accuracy of severity assessments of single diseased wheat leaves in each severity class was in the range of 78.00% to 100.00%. No matter which method was used to determine the lesion expansion coefficient/coefficients, the performance of the severity assessments of the single diseased leaves achieved after lesion expansion using lesion expansion method 3 (the lesion expansion method based on an image scaling algorithm) outperformed that achieved after lesion expansion using the other two lesion expansion methods. The performance of the method combination of lesion expansion method 3 and lesion expansion coefficient determination method 1 with a lesion expansion coefficient of 2.74, achieving an accuracy of 96.16% for severity assessments of all the single diseased wheat leaves, was the optimal method among the nine method combinations.

Discussion

The results demonstrated that satisfactory severity assessment results could be achieved using the proposed method based on lesion expansion. The results indicated that the lesion-expansion-based plant disease severity assessment method is feasible, and can be used to solve the severity assessment problem described above. This study provided a new idea and method for accurate severity assessment of plant diseases and provided support for the automatic and intelligent assessment of plant disease severity.
Psychological well-being and its associated factors among university students in Sichuan, China
Authors: Wan Juan , Wee Lei Hum , Siau Ching Sin , Wong Yin How
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Psychological well-being refers to a mental state that allows an individual to achieve their full potential, be productive and innovative in their work, and manage everyday stressors. This study aims to assess university students’ psychological well-being by examining its associations with demographic factors such as gender, only child status, family background, grade level, financial aid status, and household income.

Methods

This cross-sectional, online study utilized the EPOCH Measure of Adolescent Well-being to examine five positive well-being indicators: Engagement, Perseverance, Optimism, Connectedness and Happiness among Chinese university students aged 18–25 years (N = 4,911).

Results

The results showed that females, only children, first-year students, and urban students exhibited higher levels of psychological well-being. Additionally, students who received the highest level of financial assistance were significantly associated with lower levels of psychological well-being.

Conclusion

Identifying the influence of these socioeconomic factors on psychological well-being allows for targeted interventions to improve the mental health and social well-being of at-risk groups.
Public service motivation and career choice intentions of social work students: the roles of altruistic motivation and professional values
Authors: Hu Zheng-Xin , Gan Kai-Peng , Sun Guo-Yuan , Wang Qiu
Published: February 2025

The shortage and high turnover of social work professionals in China pose a major challenge to social governance and societal well-being, making it crucial to understand the factors influencing social work students’ career choices. Based on a purposive sampling method, between April and June 2023, a sample of 624 social work students was collected from universities in three provinces of China (Guangdong, Jiangxi, and Yunnan). The present study employs the SPSS PROCESS macro to examine the relationship between public service motivation (PSM) and career choice intentions, exploring how altruistic motivation and professional values influence the impact of PSM on career decisions. The results indicate that PSM and its dimensions strongly affect social work students’ career intentions, with altruistic motivation partially mediating this effect. Professional values positively moderate PSM’s impact, strengthening its influence on career choices. These findings provide valuable insights for social work education, guiding career strategies to reduce turnover and support the profession’s sustainable development.