bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Anti-Obesity Potential of Thunder God Vine: Network Pharmacology and Computational Insights into Celastrol-like Molecules
Authors: Zheng Siyun , Yang Hengzheng , Zheng Jingxian , Wang Yidan , Jia Bo , Li Wannan
Published: November 2024

Obesity, characterized by abnormal or excessive fat accumulation, has become a chronic degenerative health condition that poses significant threats to overall well-being. Pharmacological intervention stands at the forefront of strategies to combat this issue. Recent studies, notably by Umut Ozcan’s team, have uncovered the remarkable potential of Celastrol, a small-molecule compound derived from the traditional Chinese herb thunder god vine (Tripterygium wilfordii) as an anti-obesity agent. In this research, computational chemical analysis was employed, incorporating the “TriDimensional Hierarchical Fingerprint Clustering with Tanimoto Representative Selection (3DHFC-TRS)” algorithm to systematically explore 139 active small molecules from thunder god vine. These compounds were classified into six categories, with a particular focus on Category 1 molecules for their exceptional binding affinity to obesity-related targets, offering new avenues for therapeutic development. Using advanced molecular docking techniques and Cytoscape prediction models, six representative Celastrol-like molecules were identified, namely 3-Epikatonic Acid, Hederagenin, Triptonide, Triptotriterpenic Acid B, Triptotriterpenic Acid C, and Ursolic Acid. These compounds demonstrated superior binding affinity and specificity toward two key obesity targets, PPARG and PTGS2, suggesting their potential to regulate fat metabolism and mitigate inflammatory responses. To further substantiate these findings, molecular dynamics simulations and MM-PBSA free-energy calculations were applied to analyze the dynamic interactions between these small molecules and the enzymatic active sites of their targets. The results provide robust theoretical evidence that support the feasibility of these molecules as promising candidates for anti-obesity therapies. This study underscores the power of the 3DHFC-TRS algorithm in uncovering bioactive compounds from natural sources, such as thunder god vine, and highlights the therapeutic promise of PPARG and PTGS2 as novel obesity-related targets. Furthermore, it emphasizes the essential role of computational science in expediting drug discovery, paving the way for personalized and precision-based treatments for obesity and heralding a future of more effective healthcare solutions.
FLASH Radiotherapy: Benefits, Mechanisms, and Obstacles to Its Clinical Application
Authors: Alhaddad Lina , Osipov Andreyan N. , Leonov Sergey
Published: November 2024

Radiotherapy (RT) has been shown to be a cornerstone of both palliative and curative tumor care. RT has generally been reported to be sharply limited by ionizing radiation (IR)-induced toxicity, thereby constraining the control effect of RT on tumor growth. FLASH-RT is the delivery of ultra-high dose rate (UHDR) several orders of magnitude higher than what is presently used in conventional RT (CONV-RT). The FLASH-RT clinical trials have been designed to examine the UHDR deliverability, the effectiveness of tumor control, the dose tolerance of normal tissue, and the reproducibility of treatment effects across several institutions. Although it is still in its infancy, FLASH-RT has been shown to have potential to rival current RT in terms of safety. Several studies have suggested that the adoption of FLASH-RT is very limited, and the incorporation of this new technique into routine clinical RT will require the use of accurate dosimetry methods and reproducible equipment that enable the reliable and robust measurements of doses and dose rates. The purpose of this review is to highlight the advantages of this technology, the potential mechanisms underpinning the FLASH-RT effect, and the major challenges that need to be tackled in the clinical transfer of FLASH-RT.
Investigating the Influence of a Tooth Absence on Facial Bone Growth Using a Porcine Model
Authors: Szkopek Dominika , Wychowański Piotr , Zaworski Kamil , Seklecka Blanka , Starzyński Rafał , Lipiński Paweł , Pierzynowska Kateryna , Pierzynowski Stefan G. , Donaldson Janine , Paczewski Łukasz , Woliński Jarosław
Published: November 2024

With the current state of knowledge regarding disorders of facial bone development, including anodontia, the development of a suitable animal model for preclinical studies is essential. The agenesis of dental buds occurs in about 25% of the human population. Prospects for treatment include the use of growth factors, stem cells, and bioengineering. This study aimed to investigate the influence of a tooth absence on facial bone growth, develop a technique for the application of growth factors to the developing bone, and analyze the comparative effect of the application of selected active proteins on the growth of the maxilla and mandible. Piglets underwent germectomy, followed by computed tomography and X-ray; morphometric and histological analyses of the bones were performed, blood bone morphogenetic protein 2 and platelet-derived growth factor concentrations were determined, and the transcriptomic profile of the dentate ligament was analyzed using DNA microarrays. It was not possible to identify the most effective growth factor application algorithm for achieving normal jaw development. Normal mandibular bone structure and oral mucosa structure were observed in the germectomy groups with growth factor augmentation. The average height of the mandibular alveolar part in the area of the removed dental buds was significantly lower compared with that of the inoperable side, 3 months after surgery. However, no significant differences were found in the serum concentrations of BMP-2 and PDGF between groups. The animal model of bone development disorders (including anodontia) developed in the current study and the scheme for evaluating the efficacy and safety of the application of replacement therapy for craniofacial malformations are important in the development of the discipline and represent an important contribution to the introduction of treatment methods.
Gene Therapy for Inherited Liver Disease: To Add or to Edit
Authors: Chen Yue , van Til Niek P. , Bosma Piter J.
Published: November 2024

Patients suffering from an inherited severe liver disorder require lifelong treatment to prevent premature death. Until recently, the only curative treatment option was liver transplantation, which requires lifelong immune suppression. Now, liver-directed gene therapy, which is a much less invasive procedure, has become a market-approved treatment for hemophilia A and B. This may pave the way for it to become the treatment of choice for many other recessive inherited liver disorders with loss-of-function mutations. Inherited liver disease with toxic-gain-of-function or intrinsic hepatocyte damage may require alternative applications, such as integrating vectors or genome editing technologies, that can provide permanent or specific modification of the genome. We present an overview of currently available gene therapy strategies, i.e., gene supplementation, gene editing, and gene repair investigated in preclinical and clinical studies to treat inherited severe liver disorders. The advantages and limitations of these gene therapy applications are discussed in relation to the underlying disease mechanism.
Early Response of the Populus nigra L. × P. maximowiczii Hybrid to Soil Enrichment with Metals
Authors: Gąsecka Monika , Drzewiecka Kinga , Magdziak Zuzanna , Krzesiński Włodzimierz , Proch Jędrzej , Niedzielski Przemysław
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to investigate the response of Populus nigra L. × Populus maximowiczii to the addition of selected metals in soil. Rooted cuttings were planted in pots containing soil enriched with equimolar concentrations of Pb, Zn, Al, Ni, and Cu (500 mL of 4 mM solutions of single metal salts: (Pb(NO3)2; Zn(NO3)2 × 6H2O; Al(NO3)3 × 9H2O; Ni(NO3)2 × 6H2O; or Cu(NO3)2 × 3H2O). Growth parameters, metal accumulation, and physiological and biochemical parameters were assessed after four weeks of cultivation, simulating early response conditions. The results showed diverse metal accumulation in poplar organs, along with an increase in biomass and minor changes in gas exchange parameters or chlorophyll fluorescence. Among low-molecular-weight organic acids, citric and succinic acids were dominant in the rhizosphere, and roots with malonic acid were also present in the shoots. Only p-coumaric acid was found in the phenolic profile of the roots. The shoots contained both phenolic acids and flavonoids, and their profile was diversely modified by particular metals. Sucrose and fructose content increased in shoots that underwent metal treatments, with glucose increasing only in Cu and Al treatments. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed variations induced by metal treatments across all parameters. Responses to Pb and Zn were partially similar, while Cu, Ni, or Al triggered distinct reactions. The results indicate the adaptation of P. nigra L. × P. maximowiczii to soil containing elevated levels of metals, along with potential for soil remediation and metal removal. However, further studies are needed to evaluate the effect of differences in early responses to particular metals on plant conditions from a long-term perspective.
Glioma-Derived Exosomes and Their Application as Drug Nanoparticles
Authors: Mastantuono Serena , Manini Ivana , Di Loreto Carla , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Vindigni Marco , Cesselli Daniela
Published: November 2024

Glioblastoma Multiforme (GBM) is the most aggressive primary tumor of the Central Nervous System (CNS) with a low survival rate. The malignancy of GBM is sustained by a bidirectional crosstalk between tumor cells and the Tumor Microenvironment (TME). This mechanism of intercellular communication is mediated, at least in part, by the release of exosomes. Glioma-Derived Exosomes (GDEs) work, indeed, as potent signaling particles promoting the progression of brain tumors by inducing tumor proliferation, invasion, migration, angiogenesis and resistance to chemotherapy or radiation. Given their nanoscale size, exosomes can cross the blood–brain barrier (BBB), thus becoming not only a promising biomarker to predict diagnosis and prognosis but also a therapeutic target to treat GBM. In this review, we describe the structural and functional characteristics of exosomes and their involvement in GBM development, diagnosis, prognosis and treatment. In addition, we discuss how exosomes can be modified to be used as a therapeutic target/drug delivery system for clinical applications.
Prediction of Protein Secondary Structures Based on Substructural Descriptors of Molecular Fragments
Authors: Zakharov Oleg S. , Rudik Anastasia V. , Filimonov Dmitry A. , Lagunin Alexey A.
Published: November 2024

The accurate prediction of secondary structures of proteins (SSPs) is a critical challenge in molecular biology and structural bioinformatics. Despite recent advancements, this task remains complex and demands further exploration. This study presents a novel approach to SSP prediction using atom-centric substructural multilevel neighborhoods of atoms (MNA) descriptors for protein molecular fragments. A dataset comprising over 335,000 SSPs, annotated by the Dictionary of Secondary Structure in Proteins (DSSP) software from 37,000 proteins, was constructed from Protein Data Bank (PDB) records with a resolution of 2 Å or better. Protein fragments were converted into structural formulae using the RDKit Python package and stored in SD files using the MOL V3000 format. Classification sequence–structure–property relationships (SSPR) models were developed with varying levels of MNA descriptors and a Bayesian algorithm implemented in MultiPASS software. The average prediction accuracy (AUC) for eight SSP types, calculated via leave-one-out cross-validation, was 0.902. For independent test sets (ASTRAL and CB513 datasets), the best SSPR models achieved AUC, Q3, and Q8 values of 0.860, 77.32%, 70.92% and 0.889, 78.78%, 74.74%, respectively. Based on the created models, a freely available web application MNA-PSS-Pred was developed.
Navigating the Disinformation Maze: A Bibliometric Analysis of Scholarly Efforts
Authors: Tătaru George-Cristian , Domenteanu Adrian , Delcea Camelia , Florescu Margareta Stela , Orzan Mihai , Cotfas Liviu-Adrian
Published: November 2024

The increasing prevalence of disinformation has become a global challenge, exacerbated by the rapid dissemination of information in online environments. The present study conducts a bibliometric analysis of scholarly efforts made over time in the research papers associated with the disinformation field. Thus, this paper aims to understand and help combat disinformation by focusing on methodologies, datasets, and key metadata. Through a bibliometric approach, the study identifies leading authors, affiliations, and journals and examines collaboration networks in the field of disinformation. This analysis highlights the significant growth in research on disinformation, particularly in response to events such as the 2016 U.S. election, Brexit, and the COVID-19 pandemic, with an overall growth rate of 15.14% in the entire analyzed period. The results of the analysis underscore the role of social media and artificial intelligence in the spread of disinformation, as well as the importance of fact-checking technologies. Findings reveal that the most prolific contributions come from universities in the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), Spain, and other global institutions, with a notable increase in publications since 2018. Through thematic maps, a keyword analysis, and collaboration networks, this study provides a comprehensive overview of the evolving field of disinformation research, offering valuable insights for future investigations and policy development.
Fitness Approximation Through Machine Learning with Dynamic Adaptation to the Evolutionary State
Authors: Tzruia Itai , Halperin Tomer , Sipper Moshe , Elyasaf Achiya
Published: November 2024

We present a novel approach to performing fitness approximation in genetic algorithms (GAs) using machine learning (ML) models, focusing on dynamic adaptation to the evolutionary state. We compare different methods for (1) switching between actual and approximate fitness, (2) sampling the population, and (3) weighting the samples. Experimental findings demonstrate significant improvement in evolutionary runtimes, with fitness scores that are either identical or slightly lower than those of the fully run GA—depending on the ratio of approximate-to-actual-fitness computation. Although we focus on evolutionary agents in Gymnasium (game) simulators—where fitness computation is costly—our approach is generic and can be easily applied to many different domains.
Risk Factors for Cataracts in Patients with Diabetes Mellitus
Authors: Ivanescu Adriana , Popescu Simona , Gaita Laura , Albai Oana , Braha Adina , Timar Romulus
Published: November 2024

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is one of the most impactful health problems worldwide. It affects ocular health in multiple ways and is one of the leading causes of vision loss. Our study aimed to evaluate the most important systemic risk factors related to the occurrence of cataracts in patients with DM. Method: This study evaluated a final number of 319 participants who were previously diagnosed with DM. For all patients, we retrieved data regarding DM status, metabolic control, demographic and anthropometric indices, and generally associated comorbidities from their medical charts. A comprehensive eye examination was performed on all patients. Results: The main studied risk factors were hypertension, cardiovascular disease (CVD), chronic kidney disease (CKD), diabetic polyneuropathy (DPN), dyslipidemia, and hepatic steatosis, which were present among the entire population. Hypertension (67.6%), DPN (53.3%), and dyslipidemia (46.6%) were highly prevalent in the cataract subgroup, and CKD (p < 0.001) and DPN (p = 0.019) were found to be predictive factors for the probability of cataract occurrence. Ophthalmologic evaluation was used to assess the presence of ocular complications, such as diabetic retinopathy (DR) and diabetic maculopathy. DR reached statistically significant values in the occurence of cataracts. Patients’ age and DM-related factors, such as disease duration (p < 0.001) and HbA1c values (p = 0.029), significantly increased the risk of cataracts. Smoking was self-reported by 24.8% of the patients, with a significant impact on the occurrence of cataracts (p = 0.04). Conclusions: Patients with DM who exhibit a longer disease duration and poor glycemic control in conjunction with systemic comorbidities present a higher risk of developing cataracts; consequently, a strict therapeutic approach regarding these risk factors is needed.
Artificial Intelligence in the Diagnosis and Quantitative Phenotyping of Hyperkinetic Movement Disorders: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vizcarra Joaquin A. , Yarlagadda Sushuma , Xie Kevin , Ellis Colin A. , Spindler Meredith , Hammer Lauren H.
Published: November 2024

Background: Hyperkinetic movement disorders involve excessive, involuntary movements such as ataxia, chorea, dystonia, myoclonus, tics, and tremor. Recent advances in artificial intelligence (AI) allow investigators to integrate multimodal instrumented movement measurements and imaging techniques and to analyze these data together at scale. In this systematic review, we aim to characterize AI’s performance in diagnosing and quantitatively phenotyping these disorders. Methods: We searched PubMed and Embase using a semi-automated article-screening pipeline. Results: Fifty-five studies met the inclusion criteria (n = 11,946 subjects). Thirty-five studies used machine learning, sixteen used deep learning, and four used both. Thirty-eight studies reported disease diagnosis, twenty-three reported quantitative phenotyping, and six reported both. Diagnostic accuracy was reported in 36 of 38 and correlation coefficients in 10 of 23 studies. Kinematics (e.g., accelerometers and inertial measurement units) were the most used dataset. Diagnostic accuracy was reported in 36 studies and ranged from 56 to 100% compared to clinical diagnoses to differentiate them from healthy controls. The correlation coefficient was reported in 10 studies and ranged from 0.54 to 0.99 compared to clinical ratings for quantitative phenotyping. Five studies had an overall judgment of “low risk of bias” and three had external validation. Conclusion: There is a need to adopt AI-based research guidelines to minimize reporting heterogeneity and bolster clinical interpretability.
Orbital Subperiosteal Abscess Drainage: Transorbital vs. Endonasal Approach
Authors: Luthra Shreya , Kossler Andrea L. , Erickson Benjamin P. , Homer Natalie A.
Published: November 2024

Background: This study aims to compare the surgical outcomes of transorbital versus endonasal endoscopic approaches for orbital subperiosteal abscess drainage. Methods: A retrospective review was conducted at a single institution of patients who underwent orbital subperiosteal abscess drainage from November 2009 to April 2023. Results: Of 64 patients, 44 (68.8%) underwent abscess drainage via an orbital approach, while 20 (31.3%) underwent endonasal endoscopic drainage. No significant difference in operative time or visual acuity improvement was found between the two groups. Abscess drainage via orbitotomy was associated with a longer total (average 8.1 days) and postoperative (average 7.3 days) hospitalization time compared to the endoscopic group (average 5.4 days and 4.2 days, respectively), though this difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.197, 0.136, respectively). For medial orbital abscesses, the average length of total and postoperative hospitalization was greater after orbitotomy (p = 0.028 and 0.019, respectively). At discharge, patients who underwent orbitotomy more commonly reported periorbital swelling (p = 0.0003), while postoperative pain was more common in the endoscopic drainage group (p = 0.009). Reoperation rate was higher after orbitotomy (34.1%) compared to the endoscopic drainage group (15.0%), though this was not statistically significant (p = 0.115). Conclusions: Transorbital and endoscopic surgical approaches for orbital abscess drainage have similar surgical outcomes, with no statistically significant differences noted in terms of visual acuity change or reoperation rate. Longer hospital stays were found for patients with medial orbital abscesses drained via orbitotomy.
Efficacy of Shoulder Rehabilitation Post-Cardiac Implantable Electronic Device Implantation
Authors: Choi Sang-Suk , Son Yoon-Jin , Kim Sung-Jung , Yoo Myungjae , Roh Sumin , Yoon Mi-Jeong , Hwang Youmi
Published: November 2024

Background/Objectives: Cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIEDs) can prevent ventricular arrhythmia-related sudden cardiac death but cause paradoxical discomfort that impairs daily living and quality of life. No management guidelines exist for reducing pain, improving motion around the CIED implantation site, or preventing shoulder contractures. We evaluated the impact of continuous successive shoulder rehabilitation programs for CIED patients on reducing shoulder pain, improving shoulder range of motion, and patient satisfaction in daily living. Methods: In this prospective observational study, patients who had received CIED implantation underwent shoulder rehabilitation therapy with education during hospitalization from the day post-CIED implantation. After in-hospital rehabilitation, patients chose to undergo successive shoulder rehabilitation from their home and after 4 weeks in the outpatient clinic (rehabilitation group, n = 68) or not (non-rehabilitation group, n = 33). Pain and shoulder function was assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS) and Disability of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) scores, respectively, the day following CIED implantation and at 1–3 months postoperatively. Patient satisfaction was evaluated using the 36-item Short Form Survey (SF-36). Outcomes were compared between groups. Results: VAS pain scores significantly decreased, while DASH scores substantially improved in the rehabilitation group compared to the non-rehabilitation group. Although the SF-36 subdomains were similar between groups, the rehabilitation group showed a better health-related quality of life trend. No complications were observed following post-CIED rehabilitation. Conclusions: Shoulder rehabilitation therapy with successive education after CIED implantation significantly improved pain and shoulder function. Definitive guidelines and long-term outcomes should be investigated further.
Cross-Modal Plasticity in Postlingual Hearing Loss Predicts Speech Perception Outcomes After Cochlear Implantation
Authors: Ávila-Cascajares Fátima , Waleczek Clara , Kerres Sophie , Suchan Boris , Völter Christiane
Published: November 2024

Background: Sensory loss may lead to intra- and cross-modal cortical reorganization. Previous research showed a significant correlation between the cross-modal contribution of the right auditory cortex to visual evoked potentials (VEP) and speech perception in cochlear implant (CI) users with prelingual hearing loss (HL), but not in those with postlingual HL. The present study aimed to explore the cortical reorganization induced by postlingual HL, particularly in the right temporal region, and how it correlates with speech perception outcome with a CI. Material and Methods: A total of 53 adult participants were divided into two groups according to hearing ability: 35 had normal hearing (NH) (mean age = 62.10 years (±7.48)) and 18 had profound postlingual HL (mean age = 63.78 years (±8.44)). VEPs, using a 29-channel electroencephalogram (EEG) system, were recorded preoperatively in the 18 patients scheduled for cochlear implantation and in 35 NH adults who served as the control group. Amplitudes and latencies of the P100, N100, and P200 components were analyzed across frontal, temporal, and occipital areas and compared between NH and HL subjects using repeated measures ANOVA. For the HL group, speech perception in quiet was assessed at 6 and 12 months of CI use. Results: No difference was found in amplitudes or latencies of the P100, N100, and P200 VEP components between the NH and HL groups. Further analysis using Spearman correlations between preoperative amplitudes and latencies of the P100, N100, and P200 VEP components at the right temporal electrode position T8 and postoperative speech perception showed that the HL group had either significantly higher or significantly lower amplitudes of the P200 component at the right temporal electrode position T8 compared to the NH controls. The HL subgroup with higher amplitudes had better speech perception than the subgroup with lower amplitudes at 6 months and 12 months of CI use. Conclusions: Preoperative evaluation of cortical plasticity can reveal plasticity profiles, which might help to better predict postoperative speech outcomes and adapt the rehabilitation regimen after CI activation. Further research is needed to understand the susceptibility of each component to cross-modal reorganization and their specific contribution to outcome prediction.
Evaluation of Pain During Hysteroscopy Under Local Anesthesia, Including the Stages of the Procedure
Authors: Nowak Adrian , Chmaj-Wierzchowska Karolina , Lach Agnieszka , Malinger Adam , Wilczak Maciej
Published: November 2024

Hysteroscopy is an endoscopic diagnostic and therapeutic method traditionally performed under general anesthesia but increasingly under local anesthesia. Today, it is considered the gold standard in gynecology. This minimally invasive procedure allows for a detailed assessment of the uterine cavity’s interior and the removal of abnormal changes within it and is applicable to patients of all ages. Background/Objectives: The purpose of the present study was to evaluate pain during hysteroscopy under local anesthesia at different stages of the procedure, identifying which stage is the most painful (GUBBINI Mini Hystero-Resectoscope; Tontarra Medizintechnik, Tuttlingen, Germany). Methods: The study included patients between the ages of 21 and 80 years. They were divided into two groups: the diagnostic hysteroscopy (HD) and the operative hysteroscopy (HO) groups. Pain measurements on the VAS scale were taken at each stage of the hysteroscopic procedure. After each stage, the operator asked the patient to indicate the maximum perceived pain value: after pericervical anesthesia was administered (VAS1), during the installation of equipment (between the removal of the speculum and the insertion of the hysteroscope into the vagina) (VAS2), after insertion of the hysteroscope and visualization of the external orifice of the cervical canal (VAS3), after passage of the hysteroscope through the cervical canal (VAS4), and after completion of the procedure in the uterine cavity (VAS5). The duration of each stage of the procedure was measured with a stopwatch: administration of pericervical anesthesia (T1), time between the removal of the speculum and the insertion of the hysteroscope into the vagina (T2), insertion of the hysteroscope into the vagina until the outer orifice of the cervical canal became visible (T3), passage of the hysteroscope through the cervical canal (T4), and the hysteroscopy procedure itself (T5). Results: The highest pain rating was for the canal passage stage (VAS4: 2.47 ± 2.48 points), followed by the procedure itself (VAS5: 2.12 ± 2.33 points). Anesthesia was also reported as quite painful, while the lowest pain was noted during the assembly stage. Overall pain scores for the entire procedure (VASmax) ranged from 3.5 ± 2.37. Conclusion: In conclusion, we found that the passage through the cervical canal was the most painful moment. Overall, hysteroscopy under pericervical anesthesia was not associated with significant pain. Special attention should be given to postmenopausal patients, as they experience more pain during the passage of the hysteroscope through the cervical canal. This group may benefit from additional pain management strategies during the procedure.
Effects of Vacuum Phenomenon on Cage Subsidence and Fusion Outcomes in Oblique Lumbar Interbody Fusion: A Cohort Study
Authors: Yang Jae-Hyuk , Lee Kun-Joon , Lee Seung-Yup , Kim In-Hee , Seok Sang Yun , Suh Hansongi , Lee Hyung Rae
Published: November 2024

Background: Oblique lumbar interbody fusion (OLIF) is a minimally invasive technique used to manage degenerative lumbar conditions. The presence of vacuum phenomenon (VP) and associated endplate sclerosis may increase the risk of cage subsidence. This study evaluated the relationship between VP grade, endplate sclerosis, and subsidence in OLIF. Methods: This retrospective cohort study included 165 patients who underwent a single-level OLIF for lumbar stenosis. Patients were stratified into VP grades (0–3) based on preoperative computed tomography scans. Disc height, endplate sclerosis, and cage subsidence were radiologically assessed. Clinical outcomes, including back and leg pain visual analog scale, Oswestry Disability Index, and EuroQol-5 Dimension, were measured preoperatively and at follow-up. Results: High VP grades were associated with low preoperative disc height and increased endplate sclerosis. Although no significant differences in clinical outcomes or final fusion rates across VP grades were observed, the subsidence rate increased with VP grade, with a significant difference between VP grades 1 and 2 (p = 0.045) and between VP grades 2 and 3 (p = 0.032), indicating that subsidence rates increased as the VP grade advanced. Conclusions: High VP grades, particularly grades 2 and 3, may increase the risk of cage subsidence following OLIF. Therefore, VP grading may be worth considering during surgical planning to reduce the subsidence risk and improve outcomes.
The Role of Immunotherapy in MMR-Deficient Endometrial Carcinoma: State of the Art and Future Perspectives
Authors: Marchetti Matteo , Ferrari Jacopo , Vezzaro Tommaso , Masatti Laura , Tasca Giulia , Maggino Tiziano , Tozzi Roberto , Saccardi Carlo , Noventa Marco , Spagnol Giulia
Published: November 2024

This study provides a comprehensive overview of the role of immunotherapy in the treatment of mismatch repair-deficient (MMRd) endometrial carcinomas. Immunotherapy has emerged as a transformative approach in the treatment of MMRd due to the high mutation rate and subsequent PD-1/PD-L1 overexpression seen in these tumors. This review analyzes the current landscape of existing randomized clinical trials, highlighting the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) like pembrolizumab, avelumab, and dostarlimab. Additionally, the focus extends to the potential of combined therapeutic strategies, such as the integration of ICIs with targeted agents, while also exploring the application of immunotherapy in non-traditional settings beyond advanced or recurrent disease. This includes emerging roles in the adjuvant and neoadjuvant contexts to prevent recurrence and target early-stage disease. These findings underscore the importance of tailoring treatments based on the molecular characteristics of each tumor and paving the way for future advancements in the field of gynecologic oncology. Despite promising results, this article acknowledges the necessity of further research to refine patient selection criteria and explore combination strategies that can overcome resistance mechanisms.
Synthesis and Characterization of Titanium and Vanadium Nitride–Carbon Composites
Authors: Morales Helia M. , Sanchez David A. , Fletes Elizabeth M. , Odlyzko Michael , Padilla-Gainza Victoria , Alcoutlabi Mataz , Parsons Jason G.
Published: November 2024

Titanium nitride and vanadium nitride–carbon-based composite systems, TiN/C and VN/C, were prepared using a new synthesis method based on the thermal decomposition of titanyl tetraphenyl porphyrin (TiOTPP) and vanadyl tetraphenyl porphyrin (VOTPP), respectively. The structure of the TiN/C and VN/C composite materials, as well as their precursors, were characterized using Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy, X-Ray diffraction (XRD), X-Ray energy dispersive (EDS) and X-Ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Morphologies of the TiN/C and VN/C composites were examined by means of scanning electron (SEM) and transmission electron (TEM) microscopy. The synthesis of the non-metalated tetraphenyl porphyrin, the titanium, and vanadium tetraphenyl porphyrin complexes were confirmed using FTIR. The thermal decomposition of the titanium and vanadium tetraphenyl porphyrin complexes produced the respective metal nitride encapsulated in a carbon matrix; this was confirmed by XRD, SEM, TEM, and XPS. From the XRD patterns, it was determined that the TiN and VN were presented in cubic form with expected space group FM-3M and 1:1 (metal:N) stoichiometry. The XPS results confirmed the presence of both TiN and VN in the carbon matrix without metal carbides. The SEM and TEM results showed that both TiN and VN nanoparticles formed small clusters throughout the carbon matrix; the EDS results revealed a uniform composition. The synthesis method presented in this work is novel and serves as an effective means to produce TiN and VN NPs with good structure and morphology embedded in a carbon matrix.
Is There an Ideal Concentration of Ozonized Oil for the Prevention and Modulation of Zoledronate-Induced Mandibular Osteonecrosis? A Study on Senescent Rats
Authors: Silva Mirela Caroline , Delamura Izabela Fornazari , de Sá Simon Maria Eloise , Barbosa Stefany , Ting David Tawei , Bechara Karen , Shibli Jamil Awad , Mourão Carlos Fernando , Bassi Ana Paula Farnezi , Ervolino Edilson , Faverani Leonardo Perez
Published: November 2024

This study aimed to identify whether there is an ideal concentration for applying ozonized oil (OZ) in the post-exodontic alveoli of senescent rats treated with zoledronate (ZOL). Thirty-five female rats, aged 18 months, were divided into five groups: ZOL; ZOL+OZ500; ZOL+OZ600; ZOL+OZ700; and SAL. The groups treated with ZOL, and other concentrations of OZ received applications at a dose of 100 μg/kg, while the SAL group received saline. After three weeks of ZOL application, the animals underwent extraction of the lower first molar. Subsequently, local therapies were initiated: group ZOL+OZ500 at 500 mEq/kg; ZOL+Z600 at 600 mEq/kg; and ZOL+OZ700 at 700 mEq/kg at baseline, and on days 2 and 4 post-operation. Euthanasia was performed on day 28. The microtomographic parameter of bone volume and histometric data on the area of neoformed bone (NFBT) showed the highest values for the ZOL+OZ600 group (p < 0.05). All OZ groups had smaller areas of non-vital bone than the ZOL group (p < 0.05). The clinical appearance of the operated region showed the alveoli covered with soft tissue, particularly in the OZ groups. All the tested concentrations of OZ were able to prevent and modulate MRONJ. As it presents a greater amount of NFBT, the concentration of 600 mEq/kg seems to be ideal.
Latin America’s Digital Media Ecosystem: An Analysis of Prescription Drug Coverage and Diffusion
Authors: Flynn Matthew B. , Lombana-Bermudez Andres , Palacios Ana M.
Published: November 2024

Many countries ban direct-to-consumer advertising (DTCA) of prescription drugs due to potential health and financial risks. However, the internet and social media now offer new ways for pharmaceutical companies to share information and promote products. Covert marketing—indirectly promoting products through news media—has emerged as an alternative. This study explores the digital news landscape for prescription drugs in Latin America, a region that prohibits DTCA. Through content analysis, it examines prescription drug coverage in both traditional and digital news media published between 1 January 2017 and 1 January 2019, as well as its spread via social media platforms in the region’s six largest economies. The findings show that over 62% of news posts lacked neutrality, with articles on new treatments 74% less likely to be neutral, 64% less likely to mention adverse effects, and over eight times more likely to be promotional. Brazilian news had the highest social media sharing rate, with an emphasis on regulatory topics. Overall, digital news in Latin America leans toward promotional content rather than balanced reporting on drug risks and benefits. To support responsible journalism and reduce corporate influence, stronger pharmacovigilance and adherence to professional guidelines prioritizing accuracy, independence, and integrity are needed.
Mapping Heritage Engagement in Historic Centres Through Social Media Insights and Accessibility Analysis
Authors: Serrano-Estrada Leticia , Martí Pablo , Bernabeu-Bautista Álvaro , Huskinson Mariana
Published: November 2024

Accessibility to cultural heritage is crucial for fostering inclusive urban environments and preserving historical and cultural identities. This study addresses the gap between heritage conservation and urban accessibility with two objectives: (1) to identify tangible and intangible cultural heritage elements based on user preferences from the social media platform Foursquare, and (2) to assess the impact of accessibility on public engagement using Space Syntax analysis. The historic centres of Valencia and Alicante, Spain, were chosen as case studies for their rich cultural heritage and dynamic urban contexts. A novel urban cultural heritage (UCH) taxonomy was developed to categorise heritage elements into buildings, public spaces, elements, and events/festivities. Findings indicated that social media data offer valuable insights that complement official heritage catalogues, providing a richer understanding of cultural assets and public engagement. The results showed that higher public engagement was concentrated (1) in and around key heritage sites, (2) in heritage sites that combine cultural significance with multifunctional public use, (3) in public spaces and urban nodes that are highly accessible and well connected to the urban structure, (4) in areas where clusters of heritage elements are located close together, and (5) around sites of architectural prominence and cultural significance. This emphasised that accessibility is as important as historical significance for attracting public interest. The study suggested that improving accessibility and integrating social media data with traditional methods can enhance heritage conservation strategies and support sustainable urban development by fostering stronger identity values within cities.
Integrating Traditional Ecological Knowledge into Land Use and Land Cover Change Assessments, Pastoralist Communities in Northwest Inner Mongolia China
Authors: A Siru , Xie Bingxue , Wuliji Menghe , Zhao Lisheng
Published: November 2024

Land use and land cover (LULC) changes are the primary drivers of ecosystem transformation and have substantial impacts on local livelihoods. However, most research has focused on assessing the intensity of these changes in specific regions using remotely sensed data, thus generalizing trends and often overlooking the nuanced effects on local communities and their adaptive strategies. In this study, we integrated traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) with a remote sensing analysis to achieve a more comprehensive understanding of LULC changes and their social implications. Our results indicate that the grassland area in the studied region decreased significantly from 1985 to 2020, primarily due to socioeconomic development and rising temperatures, with a significant negative correlation observed between the size of the grassland area and livestock numbers. This loss of grassland has deeply affected the well-being and sustainability of pastoralist communities, whose livelihoods are intimately tied to grazing resources. A notable shift occurred around 2000; before this period, the grassland area was relatively stable, and camel populations were gradually declining. However, after 2000, grassland loss accelerated, accompanied by an increase in camel numbers. This trend reflects local herders’ adaptive strategies, as they leveraged ecological knowledge to adjust livestock composition in favor of camels, which are better suited to cope with the diminished grassland. By combining remote sensing data with TEK, we provide an integrated, longitudinal perspective on vegetation and livelihood changes. These insights are essential for shaping sustainable development policies in arid regions, where fostering ecological resilience and supporting community adaptation are critical.
Understanding the Nature of the Transnational Scam-Related Fraud: Challenges and Solutions from Vietnam’s Perspective
Authors: Luong Hai Thanh , Ngo Hieu Minh
Published: November 2024

Practical challenges and special threats from scam-related fraud exist for regional and local communities in Southeast Asia during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise in pig-butchering operations in Southeast Asia is a major concern due to the increased use of digital technology and online financial transactions. Many of these operations are linked to organized crime syndicates operating across borders, posing challenges for law enforcement. As a first study in Vietnam, we combined the primary and secondary databases to unveil the nature of transnational scam-related fraud. Findings show that scammers are using advanced methods such as phishing, fraudulent investments, and identity theft to maximize their sophisticated tactics for achieving financial possession. There are organized crime rings operating in Vietnam and Cambodia, with Chinese groups playing a leading role behind the scenes. Social media and its various applications have become common platforms for these criminal activities. This study also calls for practical recommendations to consider specific challenges in combating these crimes, including building a strong framework with clear policies, encouraging multiple educational awareness campaigns in communities, enhancing effective cooperation among law enforcement and others, and supporting evidence-based approaches in research and application. While we recognized and assumed that pig-butchering operations with scam-related fraud are a complex problem that requires a well-rounded and coordinated response, the exact approach would depend on each country’s specific circumstances.
Seaweed Nutritional Value and Bioactive Properties: Insights from Ascophyllum nodosum, Palmaria palmata, and Chondrus crispus
Authors: Čmiková Natália , Kowalczewski Przemysław Łukasz , Kmiecik Dominik , Tomczak Aneta , Drożdżyńska Agnieszka , Ślachciński Mariusz , Szala Łukasz , Matić Sanja , Marković Tijana , Popović Suzana , Baskic Dejan , Kačániová Miroslava
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the nutritional composition and bioactive properties of Palmaria palmata (dulse), Ascophyllum nodosum (knotted wrack), and Chondrus crispus (Irish moss). Understanding the nutritional values of these seaweeds is very important due to their potential health benefits, especially their antioxidant properties and cytotoxic activities, which point to their ability to inhibit cancer cell proliferation. Comprehensive analyses were conducted to assess protein content, amino acid composition, mineral profile, fatty acids, polyphenols, total carotenoids, antioxidant activity, and cytotoxicity against cervical (HeLa), and colon (HCT-116) cell lines. P. palmata exhibited the highest protein content, while C. crispus was richest in calcium, iron, manganese, and zinc. Amino acid analysis revealed C. crispus as being particularly high in essential and non-essential amino acids, including alanine, glutamic acid, and glycine. A. nodosum and C. crispus were rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), notably eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). A. nodosum showed the highest total carotenoid content. Polyphenol analysis highlighted the presence of compounds such as p-coumaric acid, gallic acid, and p-hydroxybenzoic acid across the species. Both the ethanolic and hexane A. nodosum extracts demonstrated the strongest antioxidant potential in DPPH• and ABTS+ assays. The cytotoxicity evaluation revealed high anticancer activity of A. nodosum and C. crispus hexane extract against HeLa and HCT-116, though it employed cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. A. nodosum hexane extract exhibited moderate selective anticancer activity against HCT-116. These findings underscore the nutritional diversity and potential health benefits of these macroalgae (seaweed) species, suggesting their suitability as functional foods or supplements, offering diverse nutritional and therapeutic benefits.
Impact of Sex Hormones on Glioblastoma: Sex-Related Differences and Neuroradiological Insights
Authors: Rossi Jessica , Zedde Marialuisa , Napoli Manuela , Pascarella Rosario , Pisanello Anna , Biagini Giuseppe , Valzania Franco
Published: November 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM) displays significant gender disparities, being 1.6 times more prevalent in men, with a median survival time of 15.0 months for males compared to 25.5 months for females. These differences may be linked to gonadal steroid hormones, particularly testosterone, which interacts with the androgen receptor (AR) to promote tumor proliferation. Conversely, estrogen (E2), progesterone (P4), and P4 metabolites exert more complex effects on GBM. Despite these insights, the identification of reliable hormonal tumor markers remains challenging, and studies investigating hormone therapies yield inconclusive results due to small sample sizes and heterogeneous tumor histology. Additionally, genetic, epigenetic, and immunological factors play critical roles in sex disparities, with female patients demonstrating increased O6-Methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation and greater genomic instability. These complexities highlight the need for personalized therapeutic strategies that integrate hormonal influences alongside other sex-specific biological characteristics in the management of GBM. In this review, we present the current understanding of the potential role of sex hormones in the natural history of GBM.
Parametric Optimization of Surface Textures in Oil-Lubricated Long-Life Aircraft Valves
Authors: Li Pei , Pei Qingxiang , Liu Zhe , Luo Sihai , Zhou Liucheng , Li Junning , Chen Leilei
Published: November 2024

The oil-lubricated long-life aircraft valve is one of the most important components to ensure the safety of the entire aircraft system, and it needs to operate millions of times during the whole service life, significantly necessitating techniques to enhance its tribological performance. To this end, five different surface textures, i.e., spherical cap, ellipsoidal cap, tree-frog, grass-lip and nepenthes textures were introduced to the pin’s surface of an aircraft valve to improve the valve’s tribological performance. By numerically solving the Reynolds equation with the Jakobsson–Floberg–Olsson cavitation boundary conditions, the effect of the five textures on the tribological performance was simulated. To optimize the geometric parameters of the five textures for a better tribological performance, the Analytic Hierarchy Process was introduced to derive a coupled tribological parameter, which accounts for three classical tribological parameters, including load bearing capacity, friction and friction coefficient. The five textures with optimal values of geometric parameters were also compared to one another using the Analytic Hierarchy Process, and this finally led to a suggestion of the best surface texture for the aircraft valve. The parametric optimization approach proposed in this work can be widely applied for the parametric optimization of surface textures in other applications.