bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salinity patterns and local migration determine the isotopic composition of the invasive blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, along the Spanish Mediterranean coast
Authors: Prado Patricia , Català Iraida , Alcaraz Carles , Barberà Maria del Carmen , Guijarro-García Elena , Falco Silvia
Published: February 2025

δ13C and δ15N patterns of the blue crab, Callinectes sapidus, and its potential diets, were investigated in eleven localities within four invaded regions of the Spanish Mediterranean (Catalonia, Valencia, Alicante, and Murcia) subjected to contrasting salinities and degrees of connectivity with the open sea. These regions host blue crab fisheries of variable importance that might be regulated by availability of food resources and local environmental conditions. When present, large adults and immature, subadult sizes of each sex were captured to evaluate possible differences associated to age movement across habitats. SIBER and MixSIAR were used to assess patterns of isotopic niche and dietary contributions. Results showed significant effects for all factors and interactions (except for Sex and Sex x Size in δ15N). The effect size in Region (ηp2 = 0.82 and 0.70, respectively for δ13C and δ15N) and Locality (ηp2 = 0.53 and 0.46), was substantially greater than that of crab Size (ηp2 = 0.37 and 0.21) and Sex (ηp2 = 0.06 and 0.02), concurring with increasing levels of isotopic niche overlap (9% and 11% in Locality and Region, 32% in Size and 44% in Sex). MixSiar results indicated strongly variable contributions from food sources at each locality (TPs from 2.3 to 3.6), but with higher quantity of fish, algae, and crustaceans (27.7%, 18% and 15.1%). Dietary results showed little relation with isotopic patterns, whereas significant associations were found between local salinities and signatures in both crabs (R2 = 0.518 and 0.757, for δ13C and δ15N) and diets. Overall, our study suggests that blue crab habitat use in small Mediterranean estuaries might largely differ from native areas, with movements being mostly restricted to young individuals and/ or certain localities with higher connectivity with the open sea (e.g., the Ebro River). Salinity conditions emerge as a major variable shaping isotopic patterns of populations on a large scale.
Trends of wealth-related inequality in stunting and its contributing factors among under-five children in Ethiopia: Decomposing the concentration index using Ethiopian Demographic Health Surveys 2011–2019
Authors: Tsega Yawkal , Endawkie Abel , Kebede Shimels Derso , Abeje Eyob Tilahun , Enyew Ermias Bekele , Daba Chala , Asmare Lakew , Bayou Fekade Demeke , Arefaynie Mastewal , Mekonen Asnakew Molla , Tareke Abiyu Abadi , Keleb Awoke , Abera Kaleab Mesfin , Kebede Natnael , Gebeyehu Endalkachew Mesfin , Ayres Aznamariam
Published: February 2025

Background

Childhood stunting is a critical public health agenda that affects physical and cognitive development, leading to long-term health problems. Understanding its wealth related trends and contributing factors is essential for effective prospective interventions. Therefore, this study is aimed to assess the trends of childhood stunting inequality using Ethiopian Demographic Health Surveys (EDHS).

Methods

This study employed the three consecutive EDHS datasets collected in 2011, 2016, and 2019. Socioeconomic disparity of stunting among under-five children was estimated through concentration index (CIX). Moreover, Wagstaff approach was used to decompose the relative CIX to assess the contribution of explanatory variables for the overall wealth inequality in childhood stunting.

Results

The overall weighted prevalence of childhood stunting in Ethiopia was 40.76% (95%CI: 40.14%, 41.37%). The trend in the magnitude of childhood stunting decreased from 44.52% in 2011 to 37.08% in 2019. The magnitude of childhood stunting was higher (14.30%) among the poorest households than the richest households (4.70%). Moreover, the CIX of wealth inequality decreased from -0.064 in 2011 to -0.089 in 2019. Wealth index(103.38%), place of residence(34.55%), mother’s education(26.73%), place of delivery(12.16%) and utilization of recommended antenatal care(12.02%) were high contributor variables in increasing the inequality, whereas administrative regions (-7.15%) and number of under-five children in the household (-4.63%) were variables contributed in the reduction of wealth inequalities in childhood stunting.

Conclusion

This study revealed that children in the poorest households were more likely to experience childhood stunting than the children in the richest households. Factors such as wealth index, mothers education, place of residence, place of delivery, number of under-five children in the household were the contributing variables for the childhood stunting inequality. Therefore, the health decision makers better to improve the access and quality of nutritional services for the children in the poorest households in Ethiopia.
LncRNA UCA1 regulates immune micro-environment in cisplatin-induced AKI by miRNA-4498/AKT3 pathway
Authors: Hongjun Peng , Mukanhaire Lydia , Zhen Liu , Ting Wang , Hongye Li , Xiaotian Zhang , Guangling Liu , Xianguo Ren
Published: February 2025

An increasing number of studies highlight the significance of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) in the biological process of acute kidney injury (AKI). This study investigates the role and the mechanism of lncRNA UCA1 in cisplatin-induced AKI. Real-time quantitative PCR was used to measure lncRNA UCA1 expression in cisplatin-induced AKI mouse model, showing that lncRNA UCA1 was overexpressed. Knockdown of lncRNA UCA1 by shRNA significantly reduced inflammation caused by cisplatin treatment. A co-culture system demonstrated that lncRNA UCA1 upregulation in T cells induced apoptosis of tubular epithelial cells (TECs). A dual-luciferase reporter assay confirmed that lncRNA UCA1 acts as a miR-4498 sponge, binding to the 3’UTR of AKT3. Flow cytometry and ELISA results showed that reduced inflammation effect induced by lncRNA UCA1 knockdown was reversed by miR-4498 inhibition or AKT3 overexpression. Our findings suggest that lncRNA UCA1 functions as a miR-4498 sponge, upregulating AKT3 expression, and promoting inflammation in cisplatin-induced AKI.
Efficacy of early enteral nutrition support on the nutritional status of patients after gallstone surgery
Authors: Wang Fang , Gao Yun
Published: February 2025

Objective

To evaluate the overall efficacy of early enteral nutrition support on the nutritional status of patients following gallstone surgery, providing a theoretical basis for its application in postoperative care.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on 98 hospitalized patients who underwent gallstone surgery between February 2021 and March 2023. The patients were divided into two groups: the study group, which received early nutritional intervention, and the control group, which started nutritional support three days post-surgery. The primary objective was to assess nutritional status, while secondary objectives included gastrointestinal function, immune function markers, and the incidence of postoperative and gastrointestinal complications. Nutritional status, gastrointestinal function, immune function, and complications were compared between the two groups before and one week after intervention.

Results

After the intervention, the study group showed significantly higher levels of total protein (TP), prealbumin (PAB), albumin (ALB), transferrin (TF), and body mass index (BMI) compared to the control group (P<0.05). Additionally, the scores for Nutrition Risk Screening 2002 (NRS 2002) and the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST) were notably lower in the study group (P<0.05). Postoperatively, the study group experienced shorter times to first exhaust, defecation, bowel sound recovery, first meal, and overall hospital stay compared to the control group (P<0.05). Although the pre-intervention levels of CD3+, CD4+, CD8+, and CD4+/CD8+ were comparable between the groups (P>0.05), these immune markers were significantly higher in the study group post-intervention (P<0.05). The incidence of both postoperative and gastrointestinal complications was significantly lower in the study group than in the control group (both P<0.05).

Conclusion

Early enteral nutrition support significantly improves the nutritional status of patients after gallstone surgery, enhances gastrointestinal and immune function, and reduces the occurrence of complications. These findings underscore its clinical significance and value in postoperative care.
Patterns of postnatal weight gain and its predictors among preterm very low birth weight neonates born in Bahir-Dar city public hospitals, 2022: A cross sectional study
Authors: Dessie Yihenew Ayehu , Abemie Worku , Nigussie Elda Mekonnen , Mengistu Bethelehem Taye , Mengstie Leweyehu Alemaw , Girma Bekahegn , Hailemeskel Solomon
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Postnatal weight gain in very low birth weight infants remains a challenge during the neonatal period in low and middle-income countries like Ethiopia, where no feeding alternatives and follow-up charts are available. Although extrauterine growth retardation is a common problem in preterm very low birth weight infants, there is a lack of evidence in resource-limited countries regarding patterns of postnatal weight gain. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the patterns of postnatal weight gain and its predictors among preterm very low birth weight infants in Ethiopia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on a randomly selected sample of 412 neonates in Ethiopia. Data were collected using structured questionnaires and analyzed with Stata version 14.0 software. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to identify significant predictors. Model fitness and assumptions were assessed. Associations were reported using adjusted odds ratios (AOR) with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

In the current study, 14.6% (95% CI: 10.4–20.1) of neonates had adequate postnatal weight gain at discharge. Spontaneous vaginal delivery [AOR: 2.54; 95% CI (1.17, 5.54)], birth Z-score > -1.29 [AOR: 4.51; 95% CI (1.43, 14.16)], early feeding initiation time [AOR: 3.36; 95% CI (1.63, 6.92)], and respiratory distress syndrome [AOR: 0.31; 95% CI (0.12, 0.78)] were significant predictors for postnatal weight gain among very low birth weight neonates in Ethiopia.

Conclusion

The postnatal weight gain reported in this study was low as compared to the national figure. Mode of delivery, birth z-score, initiation time of the first feeding, and respiratory distress syndrome were associated with postnatal weight gain. The Federal Ministry of Health, stakeholders, national neonatal associations, and non-governmental organizations should work collaboratively to promote vaginal delivery and early initiation of feeding and develop guidelines specifically tailored for this special population. Furthermore, healthcare providers should prioritize and focus on neonates who have respiratory distress and low Z-scores.
Effects of music advertised to support focus on mood and processing speed
Authors: Orpella Joan , Bowling Daniel Liu , Tomaino Concetta , Ripollés Pablo
Published: February 2025

While music’s effects on emotion are widely appreciated, its effects on cognition are less understood. As mobile devices continue to afford new opportunities to engage with music during work, it is important to understand associated effects on how we feel and perform. Capitalizing on potential benefits, many commercial music platforms advertise content specifically to support attentional focus and concentration. Although already in wide-spread use, the effects of such content remain largely untested. In this online behavioral study, we tested the effects of music advertised to support “work flow” and “deep focus” on mood and performance during a cognitively demanding psychological test (the flanker task). We additionally included a sample of popular hit music representing mainstream musical stimulation and a sample of office noise representing typical background stimulation in a social working environment. Our findings show that, despite similar marketing, only the work flow music gave rise to significant and positively correlated improvements in mood and performance (i.e., faster responses over time, with similar accuracy). Analyses of objective and perceived musical features indicate consistency with the “arousal-mood theory” of music’s cognitive impact and provide new insights into how music can be structured to regulate mood and cognition in the general population.
Upregulated LIMD1 alleviates pressure overload-induced cardiac hypertrophy via inhibits YAP1/AKT/GSK3β signaling
Authors: Xie Fengwen , Yuan Bin , Zhang Ye , Chen Liru , Zhong Yingmei , Xu Quan
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Pathological cardiac hypertrophy plays a significant role in the development and progression of heart failure (HF). LIM Domain Containing 1 (LIMD1) serves as a crucial regulatory factor in protein-protein interactions during cellular signal transduction. This study aims to investigate the specific roles and mechanisms of LIMD1 in pathological cardiac remodeling.

Methods

We employed an adeno-associated virus 9 (AAV9) system to overexpress LIMD1 in the hearts through tail vein injection. C57BL/6 mice underwent transverse aortic constriction (TAC) for four weeks. Cardiac function was assessed using echocardiography, while cardiac remodeling was evaluated through histopathology and molecular techniques.

Results

Our findings demonstrated elevated levels of LIMD1 in murine hearts subjected to TAC treatment and H9c2 cells challenged with angiotensin II (Ang II). Compared with wild-type (WT) mice, those injected with AAV-9-LIMD1 exhibited significantly reduced TAC-induced cardiac dysfunction, hypertrophy, and fibrosis. Mechanistically, both in vitro and in vivo experiments suggested that the beneficial effects of LIMD1 might be associated with the inhibition of the YAP1/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway.

Conclusion

In summary, this study is the first to demonstrate the protective effects of LIMD1 against TAC-induced pathological cardiac remodeling. These effects are attributed to the inhibition of the YAP1/AKT/GSK3β signaling pathway.
Guanine crystal formation by the unicellular organism Phacotus lenticularis is part of a cellular stress response
Authors: Shaked Noy , Sorrentino Andrea , Varsano Neta , Addadi Sefi , Porat Ziv , Pinkas Iddo , Weiner Steve , Addadi Lia
Published: February 2025

Organic crystals, and in particular guanine crystals, are widely used by multicellular organisms for manipulating light and producing structural colors. Many single celled eukaryotic organisms also produce organic crystals, and guanine is the most abundant type produced. Their functions are thought to be related to the fact that guanine is nitrogen rich. Here we studied a freshwater unicellular eukaryotic alga, Phacotus lenticularis, and found that when the growth medium is depleted in phosphorus, the alga stops reproducing and produces intracellular birefringent particles inside vesicles. Cryo-SEM showed that these particles are faceted and are located within membranes inside the cell. Using Raman spectroscopy, we showed that these particles are β-guanine crystals. 3D tomograms produced using cryo-soft-X-ray-microscopy quantitatively documented the increase in cell volume and distribution of guanine crystals within the cells with increasing time of phosphorous deprivation. The tomograms also showed additional morphological changes in other cellular organelles, namely starch granules, chloroplasts, nuclear DNA and membranes. The combined observations all indicate that under phosphorous depletion, the algal cells undergo a massive stress response. As guanine crystal formation is part of this response, we conclude that guanine crystals are formed in response to stress, and this is not related to nitrogen availability. Upon addition of phosphate to the P-depleted media, the algal cells, with their guanine crystals, resume reproduction. From this we conclude that the guanine crystals somehow contribute to the recovery from stress.
Efficient simulation of plasma physics’ time fractional modified Korteweg-de Vries equations
Authors: Alharthi N. S.
Published: February 2025

In many science and engineering fields, integer-order differential equations are unable to provide a satisfactory explanation for a wide range of phenomena when compared to fractional-order differential equations. The fractional modified Korteweg-de Vries (mKdV) equations are investigated in this work by employing effective analytical methods within the Caputo operator. The findings for the given problems are computed using the Elzaki transformation, the homotopy perturbation method, and the Adomian decomposition method. With these techniques, the problems were first made simpler utilizing the Elzaki transform, and the problems were then comprehensively solved by employing the decomposition and perturbation approaches. A few numerical cases with their approximate analytical solutions are considered to demonstrate the conclusions drawn from the findings. To verify these approaches, we examined two cases and compared them with the real outcomes. By using these methods, the solution to the suggested problem is represented by recurrence relations. The selected issues have series solutions that can be found and have features that more quickly approach the exact results. It is found that there is a strong correlation between the derived results and the real results of every problem when the number of terms increases in the series solution of the problem. The use of efficient techniques that provide higher levels of accuracy with less computation makes the current work innovative. To further benefit the scientific community, the proposed methods can also be used in the future to solve other fractional nonlinear problems.
UVESCREEN1: A randomised feasibility study of imaging-based uveitis screening for children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis- Study Protocol
Authors: Dave Sonali , Rahi Jugnoo S. , Petrushkin Harry , Testi Ilaria , Patel Dipesh E. , Solebo Ameenat Lola
Published: February 2025

Children with Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA) are at a currently unpredictable risk of a blinding, often asymptomatic, co-existent eye disorder, anterior uveitis which requires prompt treatment. The unpredictability of this insidious disorder commits children with JIA to three-monthly expert clinical examinations in specialist eye centres often located far from their homes. Optical coherence tomography of the ocular anterior segment (AS-OCT) has been shown to be an acceptable, repeatable and sensitive modality for uveitis detection, but is not standard care. This feasibility randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to inform a future full-scale RCT comparing current routine practice (expert slit lamp examination, SLE) to AS-OCT for the surveillance of uveitis in children at risk. Eighty children aged between 2 and 12 years old and diagnosed with JIA within the preceding year will be included. Participants with an existing diagnosis of uveitis, other ocular co-morbidities or those unable to complete examinations or provide informed assent will be excluded. Participants will be randomised to SLE (control) or AS-OCT (intervention) examination at a frequency consistent with the current national programme for childhood uveitis surveillance. Children in the intervention arm will also have standard examination at 6 and 12 months after study entrance. Outcomes of interest will be feasibility (recruitment and attrition rates), clinical metrics (proportion diagnosed with uveitis or other ocular disorders at 12 months after study entrance), quality of life outcomes (PedsQL), and resource use. Additionally, comparative analysis of AS-OCT versus SLE (‘gold standard’ reference testing) findings at 6 and 12 months for those in the intervention arm will provide the proof-of-concept data necessary to develop and undertake a larger scale trial. Trial registration: This trial has been registered with clinicaltrails.gov (NCT05984758).
Association between dietary inflammation index and herpes simplex virus I and II: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Luo Jing , Liu En-Hui , Chen Hao-Kai , He Xiang-Ping , Chen Tong , Hu Yu-Qi , Guo Xu-Guang
Published: February 2025

Introduction

We aimed to fill the research gap between DII and herpes simplex virus infection among adults in the US by analyzing the association between dietary inflammatory index and herpes simplex virus and to provide new ideas for herpes simplex virus prevention and treatment.

Method

We used data from 8636 participants in NHANES 2007–2016, which were statistically analyzed by participant baseline study, one-way analysis of variance, multiple regression equations, smoothed curve fitting, and stratified analysis.

Result

In the fully adjusted model, the DII high concentration group was positively associated with the prevalence of herpes simplex (1.15 (0.89, 1.48), p = 0.0027), and the results of the stratified analyses indicated that the positive association between DII and herpes simplex virus type II was stable in the population.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates a positive association between DII and herpes simplex virus II in US adults, suggesting that a proinflammatory diet may be an independent risk factor for herpes simplex virus II.
Study on anti-collapse performance of CFST structures under collision load in different cases
Authors: Song Lian , Wang Lin , Wang Xuan
Published: February 2025

In view of the continuous collapse resistance of the remaining structure under impact column and side columns under vehicle loads, the composite plane frame of concrete filled steel tubes (CFST) was established by using the finite element software ABAQUS, and the orthogonal experimental design and analysis were carried out. Through numerical analysis, the whole process of continuous collapse of the structure caused by low-speed impact is simulated. The research results show that: in the collapse mechanism of the two working conditions, the deformation modes of the impact column and the remaining frame show two modes. According to the fact that the axial force of the adjacent bottom column of the non-impact column increases greatly at first and then tends to be stable after being impacted, the axial force of the non-adjacent bottom column fluctuates up and down around the impact front axle force. Comparing the two working conditions with the direct simulation method (DS) and the alternate path method (AP), the reliability of AP method in evaluating the internal force of the remaining structure under impact load is insufficient, and it is unsafe to judge the collapse degree of the structure. According to the result of range analysis, it can be seen that the velocity is the most important factor to cause the dynamic effect of the remaining structure in the two cases. This study deeply analyzes the influence of the structural damage caused by the low-speed impact of accidents on the continuous collapse of the remaining structures, which has very important theoretical and practical significance for improving the anti-continuous collapse ability of buildings.
Participant experiences receiving acupuncture for acute musculoskeletal pain in an emergency department: A qualitative evaluation
Authors: Tupetz Anna , Frazier Madison , O’Regan Amy , Knisely Mitchell , TumSuden Olivia , Walker Erica , Sununu Charlotte , Glass Oliver , Miller-Maxwell Ann , Staton Catherine A. , Eucker Stephanie A.
Published: February 2025

Objective

Acupuncture is an evidence-based pain treatment in clinic settings, but its optimal delivery has not been established in emergency departments (EDs). As part of an adaptive pragmatic randomized controlled trial of ED acupuncture for acute musculoskeletal pain (NCT04290741), we embedded a qualitative evaluation of acupuncture treatment acceptability and suggestions for improvement from study participants receiving acupuncture in the ED.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews conducted remotely evaluated factors impacting patients’ perspectives, willingness to participate in, and experiences with ED acupuncture. The codebook was iteratively developed, and recruitment and analysis continued until information saturation was reached.

Results

Twenty-eight participants receiving ED acupuncture between February 2020-March 2021 were interviewed, with median age 44 years, 46.4% female, and 61% having never previously received acupuncture. Overall, ED patients with acute musculoskeletal pain expressed interest in acupuncture and reported an overall positive experience. Most reported acupuncture met their expectations for pain improvement, and many reported additional improvements in stress, anxiety, and sleep quality. Participants with a positive experience were more likely to recommend acupuncture to others. Key positive aspects included open communication with compassionate and knowledgeable acupuncturists. Participants found the ED setting acceptable and convenient for receiving acupuncture. Furthermore, participants provided actionable feedback like addressing fear of needles to improve the ED acupuncture experience.

Conclusions

In conclusion, ED patients with acute musculoskeletal pain were interested in and had positive experiences with acupuncture treatment for pain and found the ED setting acceptable and convenient. Participant feedback can be used to improve acupuncture treatment in the ED.
Real-time assessment of triage nurse situational awareness (SA) using the situation awareness global assessment technique (SAGAT)
Authors: Alfuraydi Abeer Abdulaziz , Al-Moteri Modi
Published: February 2025

Background

The emergency department (ED) is a complex, unpredictable, and distraction-filled environment. Within these challenging conditions, triage nurses are tasked with quickly assessing, identifying, and prioritizing patients who require urgent interventions. Studies from other safety-critical fields, such as aviation and the military, have highlighted that situational awareness (SA) is a critical skill for optimizing human performance during time-sensitive situations. In these fields, limitations in SA have been identified as significant risks to safety. However, despite its importance, SA in the context of EDs has been largely overlooked. Endsley’s SA theory and the Situation Awareness Global Assessment Technique (SAGAT) provide a framework to evaluate SA in dynamic and complex workspaces. This study aims to assess SA during real-time triage processes of patients in EDs, utilizing Endsley’s SA model.

Method

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted to assess SA. Forty real-time triaging processes were observed and evaluated in two ED sites, using the SAGAT to measure SA levels.

Results

A total of 40 triage nurses participated in the study across two ED sites. The findings revealed that the perception of patient cues was significantly reduced by workload (p = 0.048) and stress (p = 0.025), while playing video games was associated with enhanced perception of patient cues (p = 0.014). Additionally, a significant negative correlation was observed between the perception of patient cues and comprehension, indicating a cognitive trade-off between these two SA levels. Only 10% (n = 4) of participants achieved a good SA score, emphasizing the need for improvement.

Conclusion

The results underscore the importance of understanding and improving situational awareness in triage nurses using Endsley’s SA model. These findings offer valuable insights for enhancing future practice, education, and research focused on optimizing situational awareness in emergency nursing.
Identifying risk factors for cancer-specific early death in patients with advanced endometrial cancer: A preliminary predictive model based on SEER data
Authors: Yang Jing , Tian Qi , Li Guang , Liu Qiao , Tang Yi , Jiang Dan , Shu Chuqiang
Published: February 2025

Objective

To identify risk factors associated with cancer-specific early death in patients with advanced endometrial cancer and to develop a preliminary nomogram prediction model based on these factors, with an emphasis on the potential implications for clinical practice.

Methods

Patients from the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results (SEER) database in the United States from 2018 to 2021 were included in the study. The study data was randomly divided into a training cohort and a validation cohort at a ratio of 7:3. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed in the training cohort to screen for risk factors for cancer-specific early mortality in advanced endometrial cancer patients, and a preliminary nomogram prediction model was further constructed. The results of the Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve, calibration analysis, and clinical decision curve analysis (DCA) were presented for transparency.

Results

Significant risk factors for cancer-specific early death were identified, including tumor size (≥101 mm, OR = 2.11, P < 0.001), non-endometrioid histology (OR = 3.11, P < 0.001), high tumor grade (G3, OR = 2.68, P = 0.007), advanced tumor stages (T3-T4, OR = 1.84, P = 0.004), and metastatic stage (M1, OR = 2.05, P < 0.001), as well as the presence of liver metastases (OR = 2.21, P = 0.005) and brain metastases (OR = 8.08, P < 0.001). Protective factors that were significantly associated with a reduced risk of early death included hysterectomy (OR = 0.13, P = 0.012), radical surgery (OR = 0.21, P < 0.001), radiation therapy (OR = 0.40, P < 0.001), and chemotherapy (OR = 0.31, P < 0.001). A preliminary nomogram model was demonstrated adequate predictive performance with AUC values of 0.89 (95% CI 0.87 to 0.91) in the training cohort and 0.88 (95% CI 0.84 to 0.91) in the validation cohort. The model’s predictive performance was further supported by the calibration and DCA analyses, suggesting its potential clinical utility.

Conclusion

This study identified key risk factors for early cancer-specific mortality in patients with advanced endometrial cancer. The preliminary nomogram model holds promise for predicting early death risk and could be valuable in clinical practice. Future work may explore its performance with additional data to ensure broad applicability.
Impact of perceived factors of coronavirus infection on COVID-19 vaccine uptake among healthcare workers in Ghana—Evidence from a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Gelyi Emmanuel K. , Azaare John , Bonso Nana Kobea , Kpordoxah Mary Rachael , Aninanya Gifty Apiung
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Ghana faced acute COVID-19 vaccine uptake rejection after the rollout of the initial dose, thus, posing a risk of not reaching herd immunity as necessary to curb the spread of the novel coronavirus disease.

Objective

In this study, we analysed the impact of perceptions of the COVID-19 infection on COVID-19 vaccine uptake among healthcare workers in the Mampong district of Ghana.

Methods

The study was conducted between April 2022 and June 2023 and interviewed 260 respondents using a closed-ended electronic questionnaire in a Google form format. We then analysed for association using a composite outcome response of healthcare workers in Ghana using a multiple logistics regression model. The alpha value was set at p <  0.05 for statistical significance employing statistical software, IBM Statistical Package for the Social Sciences software. The analysis adjusted for independent covariates using respondent medical history, COVID-19 infection status, and sociodemographic characteristics.

Results

Out of the total respondents, 219 (84.2%) took at least one shot of a COVID-19 vaccine. Of those who took a vaccine, 61.9% took AstraZeneca, followed by Johnson and Johnson (8.5%) and Pfizer BioNTech (6.2%). Vaccine uptake was significantly associated with positive previous vaccination history (p <  0.001), perceived vaccine safety (p <  0.001), perceived seriousness of COVID-19 infection (p < 0.008), and trust in COVID-19 vaccine based on recommendations by experts (p <  0.015).

Conclusion

Previous vaccination history and perceived factors such as vaccine safety, the seriousness of the COVID-19 infection, perceived risk of infection, and trust in expert recommendations influenced vaccine uptake among healthcare workers in Ghana.
Systematic evaluation of subgroup analyses of inhaled treprostinil in pulmonary hypertension due to interstitial lung disease
Authors: Martínez-Puig Pablo , Báez-Gutiérrez Nerea , Rodríguez-Ramallo Héctor , Abdelkader-Martin Laila , Otero-Candelera Remedios
Published: February 2025

Background

The INCREASE trial introduced a novel therapeutic option for Pulmonary Hypertension caused by Interstitial Lung Disease. Subsequently to this trial, several subgroup analyses were conducted, aiming to explore specific effects within subgroups.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the subgroup analyses performed in the INCREASE trial and to identify potentially reliable subgroup effects.

Methods

A methodological assessment of the subgroup analyses was performed. Claims of subgroup effect were evaluated using three different tools: Sun, X et al. 2012, Gil-Sierra, M.D et al. 2020, and Schandelmaier, S et al. 2020. Additionally, all statistically significant subgroup effects that were not claimed by the authors were evaluated.

Results

Five claims of subgroup effect were identified; none of them achieved statistical significance when assessed using an interaction test. The evaluation conducted with the three tools consistently yielded very low credibility for all the claims. During the assessment, a statistically significant subgroup effect of moderate credibility was identified, which the authors did not claim: iTre appeared to improve exercise capacity exclusively in patients with Pulmonary Vascular Resistance ⋝ 4 WUs.

Conclusions

Due to methodological limitations, the credibility of subgroup claims from the authors of the INCREASE was lacking and, therefore, should not be relied upon to inform decisions on an individual basis.
Comparison of stable isotope mixing models for examining plant root water uptake
Authors: Qiu Xue , Zhang Mingjun , Wang Shengjie , Meng Hongfei , Che Cunwei
Published: February 2025

As natural isotope tracers, δ18O and δ2H have been widely applied to examine the water uptake of plant root, but the various stable isotope mixing models may lead to different explanations. To understand the influence of models, here we selected a typical plant Caragana korshinskii Kom. in northeastern Tibetan Plateau, and analyzed the stable water isotope compositions in plant xylem and potential sources including precipitation and soil water. Three stable isotope mixing models, i.e., IsoSource, MixSIR and MixSIAR were used, and then the differences in the proportional contributions of various water sources for plant root were examined. The results showed that the IsoSource and MixSIR were generally similar, while the MixSIAR were significantly different. Although the proportional contributions of each water source were different due to different algorithms, the water source which contributed maximum proportion was the same for all models. This study provides a scientific reference for the selection of models for the study of plant water use strategies in similar study areas, i.e., the most dominant water source can be identified regardless of the choice of model.
Characterization of the atypical antipsychotic drug aripiprazole cytotoxicity in the neutrophil model cell line HL-60
Authors: Swain Courtney A. , Robbs Emily J. , Verma Lindsay , Brandt Heaven , Seppaenen Alexandra L. , Cavnar Peter J.
Published: February 2025

Atypical antipsychotics are widely used for the treatment of mental and behavioral disorders such as bipolar disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and schizophrenia. However, these drugs can occasionally induce neutropenia or agranulocytosis, characterized by a significant reduction in circulating neutrophils, the primary white blood cells responsible for immune responses. This drug-induced neutropenia poses a considerable risk of life-threatening infections. However, the precise mechanism by which atypical antipsychotics induce neutropenia remains unclear. This study investigates the effects of four atypical antipsychotics, namely – aripiprazole, clozapine, olanzapine, and quetiapine – on the human neutrophil model cell line HL-60. These drugs, which modulate dopamine receptor signaling alongside other mechanisms, were analyzed for their effects. Among these, aripiprazole – but not the others – uniquely induced apoptosis in a dose-dependent manner, accompanied by an increased expression of pro-apoptotic genes – BAK, BCL10, and caspase-3. Moreover, our study elucidates that while differentiated HL-60 cells express D1-like and D2-like dopamine receptors, aripiprazole’s cytotoxic effects appear to operate through dopamine-independent pathways and significantly reduce phosphorylated Src family kinase levels. Our results align with previous studies suggesting that aripiprazole exhibits cytotoxic properties in neutrophils. Nevertheless, further investigations are warranted to investigate the mechanisms underlying aripiprazole-induced apoptosis in neutrophils.
Malaria infection of endemic primates in the Buton Utara Wildlife Sanctuary, Indonesia: Potential for transmission to humans
Authors: Lempang Meyby Eka Putri , Permana Dendi Hadi , Asih Puji Budi Setia , Wangsamuda Suradi , Dewayanti Farahana Kresno , Rozi Ismail Ekoprayitno , Setiadi Wuryantari , Syahrani Lepa , Muslimin Lucia , Malaka Ratmawati , Syafruddin Din
Published: February 2025

Background and Aim: Zoonotic malaria is an emerging public health challenge in Indonesia, exacerbated by deforestation and increased interaction between humans and non-human primates (NHPs). This study aimed to estimate malaria prevalence in NHPs within the Buton Utara Wildlife Sanctuary (BUWS) and evaluates the potential risk of zoonotic malaria transmission to nearby human populations.

Materials and Methods: Epidemiologic surveys were conducted from 2020 to 2021 in BUWS. Macaca brunnescens, the endemic NHP species, were captured using traps. Blood samples were collected and analyzed through microscopy and molecular techniques to detect Plasmodium species. DNA extraction, mitochondrial DNA barcoding, and polymerase chain reaction were used for species identification and phylogenetic analysis. Human populations residing near BUWS were also screened for malaria via blood smear and DNA analysis.

Results: Among the 26 Macaca brunnescens sampled, Plasmodium infections were identified in 50%, including Plasmodium inui, Plasmodium cynomolgi, and Plasmodium simiovale, with one mixed infection. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed the presence of these species. Notably, no Plasmodium knowlesi, a prevalent zoonotic malaria agent in Southeast Asia, was detected. Human malaria screening revealed no zoonotic infections but identified a single case of non-zoonotic malaria linked to travel outside the region.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of Plasmodium species in NHPs highlights the potential for zoonotic malaria transmission in BUWS. Although no zoonotic cases were detected among humans, continuous surveillance of NHPs, mosquito vectors, and human populations is essential. Conservation efforts and public health initiatives should focus on mitigating the risks associated with increased human-primate interaction.

Keywords: Buton Utara Wildlife Sanctuary, Indonesia, Macaca brunnescens, non-human primates, Plasmodium species, zoonotic malaria.
Ultrasound-based radiogenomics: status, applications, and future direction
Authors: Wang Si-Rui , Shen Yu-Ting , Huang Bin , Xu Hui-Xiong
Published: February 2025

Radiogenomics, an extension of radiomics, explores the relationship between imaging features and underlying gene expression patterns. This field is instrumental in providing reliable imaging surrogates, thus potentially representing an alternative to genetic testing. The rapidly growing area of radiogenomics that utilizes ultrasound (US) imaging seeks to elucidate the connections between US image characteristics and genomic data. In this review, the authors outline the radiogenomics workflow and summarize the applications of US-based radiogenomics. These include the prediction of gene variations, molecular subtypes, and other biological characteristics, as well as the exploration of the relationships between US phenotypes and cancer gene profiles. Although the field faces various challenges, US-based radiogenomics offers promising prospects and avenues for future research.
Sun protection factor value of Rosa centifolia and Rosa alba from Merapi mountain Indonesian National Park and its potency as sunscreen
Authors: Widhiastuti S S , To'bungan N
Published: February 2025

The potential wild Rosa centifolia L. and Rosa alba extracts in the Sapuangin region of Merapi Mountain National Park have not been explored. This study investigated the phytochemical content, antioxidant activity, and potential of extracts from R. centifolia and R. alba as sunscreen. R. centifolia and R. alba simplicia were extracted with methanol and ethanol to obtain four rose extract types. Phytochemical content was investigated using qualitative assay. Spectrophotometry was used to determine total flavonoid (TFC) and phenolic content (TPC). Antioxidant activity was evaluated using the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) method. Potential extracts as sunscreen were evaluated with Sun Protection Factor (SPF) assay. The qualitative phytochemical assay showed both ethanolic and methanolic extracts of R. centifolia contained saponin, tannin, flavonoid, and triterpenoid. Alkaloids were only contained in the methanolic extracts of R. centifolia. Ethanolic and methanolic extract of R. alba contained saponin and flavonoid. Alkaloid was present in the ethanolic extract of R. alba, while tannin is only in the methanolic extract of R. alba. The highest TFC was shown by methanolic extract of R. alba (68.132 ± 0.484 mg /QE/g). Methanolic extract of R. centifolia showed the highest TPC (253.090±2.530 mg GAE/g). Methanolic extract of R. centifolia exhibited IC50 values of DPPH scavenging 22,622 µg/mL and was categorized as a strong antioxidant activity. Likewise, the SPF value is the highest among the other extracts, namely 32.602 ± 0.430 at a concentration of 500 ppm. R. centifolia and R. alba ethanolic and methanolic extracts have the potential to be sued as candidates for antioxidant and sunscreen sources.
Financial Statements and the Determination of Distributable Profits in Croatia
Authors: Ježovita Ana , Horak Hana
Published: February 2025

A significant principle in evaluating a company’s sustainability is the going concern principle, which assesses its ability to continue with its operations for the foreseeable future. Thus, adequate financial position and profitable business operations are preconditions for fulfilling going concern requirements, which leads to a prudent company’s capital management. However, this is insufficient for capital sustainability, considering that aggressive dividend policies lead to decreased capital. National laws and regulations play a significant role in preserving paid-in and accumulating earned capital, especially those regulations related to companies’ legal systems and accounting practices. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Croatian legal system regarding the main aspects of regulations on dividend distributions on the one side and accounting recognition and measuring policies related to paid-in and earned capital on the other side. The results are beneficiary for the objectives of the ELI project Guidance on Company Capital and Financial Accounting for Corporate Sustainability related to “restating and modernising well-established provisions of European company law on: (i) distributions; (ii) equity capital maintenance; and (iii) non-distributable reserves, with a view to fostering and facilitating sustainable business conduct through responsible company capital management and financial accounting adjustments”.
Accounting Standards for Equity Capital Management and Dividend Distributions in France
Authors: Le Manh Anne
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to outline the current regulatory framework of accounting for dividend distributions in France, with a view over its evolution since 1957. After briefly presenting the accounting regulatory sources of dividend distribution in France, our case study focuses on the dividend distribution restrictions that originate from two main matters, as in most EU member states:

– Recognition of unrealised gains in the financial statements.

– Carrying out of capital transactions impacting company equity: increase in capital, share buy-back, merger and acquisitions.

Two findings are especially noteworthy. First, French regulations require restrictions on dividend distribution for the optional accounting treatments mentioned by the 2013 EU Accounting Directive and for which this directive recommends Member States to require those restrictions. Furthermore, in line with EU regulations, French regulations are silent on the distribution of dividends from unrealised profits or reserves arising from the recognition of goodwill in the individual accounts, the recognition of a deferred tax asset and the recognition of a share premium.
ELI Guidance on Company Capital and Financial Accounting for Corporate Sustainability: A Foreword
Authors: Pocar Fausto
Published: February 2025

The critical role of companies in contributing to environmental, social and governance sustainability within the framework of the European Green Deal developed by the European Union is well known and does not need to be underlined. What is less known is the action that should be taken for facilitating sustainable business conduct. It is however manifest that only sustainable companies can be able and long-term responsible for providing a contribution for the benefit of the society at large. It is also manifest that only financially solid companies may reach and ensure corporate sustainability over a significantly long period of time. A joint consideration of the relationship between corporate sustainability, company law and financial accounting is therefore essential for a valuable clarification of one important aspect of the ongoing debate concerning sustainability. This Report, which is the result of a research project conducted within the European Law Institute by a qualified team under the direction of three highly valued experts as reporters – Yuri Biondi, Colin Haslam and Corrado Malberti, respectfully from France, the United Kingdom and Italy – examines the mentioned relationship between multiple elements, with a view to formulating recommendations on company capital and financial accounting for corporate sustainability.
A review on advancement in mechanical and structural properties of graphene reinforced aluminium matrix composites
Authors: Khobragade Nidhi , Roy Debdas
Published: February 2025

Al matrix composites are the most promising candidate for light-weight components in the aerospace and automotive industries. Graphene has numerous applications across various fields due to its exceptional mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. The incorporation of graphene into aluminium (Al) matrix composites shows significantly improved mechanical and physical properties compared with pure Al. This review article summarizes the properties and applications of graphene in various areas. This article covers the processing route and effect of different fractions of graphene in aluminium matrix. Moreover, the article evaluates the advancement in mechanical and microstructural properties in Al/graphene composites with various fractions of graphene content.