bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Teacher-student relationship, coping style and sports anxiety among middle school students: a situational study based in Shanghai
Authors: Qi Jiatian , Li Jingjing , Liu Bing
Published: February 2025

Objective

The present research aims to explore the relationship between coping style, teacher-student relationship, and sports anxiety among middle school students.

Methods

A total of 289 Chinese middle school students from three schools in Shanghai participated in the survey.

Results

(1) A negative teacher-student relationship significantly affects sports anxiety, and conversely, sports anxiety significantly impacts the negative teacher-student relationship, demonstrating a strong mutual effect; (2) Both active coping style and negative coping style significantly influence sports anxiety, while sports anxiety also significantly affects active coping style among middle school students. In the two-way model of teacher-student relationship (including positive and negative dynamics) and sports anxiety, the mediating effect of coping style is not significant.

Conclusion and perspective

This study enhances our understanding of the roles of student-teacher relationship and sports anxiety, providing a concrete sample and example for educational authorities in developed countries to identify relevant issues in the field of physical education.
“Blood is thicker than water” - experiences and perspectives of family caregivers of people living with severe mental illness at Holy Water traditional healing sites, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Authors: Baheretibeb Yonas , Wondimagegn Dawit , Andermann Lisa , Law Samuel
Published: February 2025

Background

Family caregivers of people with severe mental illness (SMI) are the backbone of the mental health care system in resource-limited family centered cultural setting like Ethiopia. This exploratory qualitative study examines the experiences and perspectives of family caregivers at two Ethiopian Holy Water treatment sites for people with SMI in Addis Ababa, where a collaborative project exists between traditional healers and biomedical practitioners.

Methods

Eleven family caregivers at two Holy Water treatment sites in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia were interviewed in 2021, using a semi-structured interview guide. The transcribed material was analyzed using qualitative thematic analysis. Inclusion criteria for study participants were over 18 years of age, capacity to give informed consent, and has a family member with mental illness for whom the family caregiver has sought help at the Holy Water treatment sites and at the collaborative Clinic.

Results

Content analysis found seven notable themes: 1. Strong sense of obligation and responsibility and ongoing provision of care; 2. Caregiving puts a serious strain on caregivers’ lives and established family roles; 3. Chronicity and persistence of illness take toll on family caregivers and networks of support; 4. Family caregivers appreciate the supportive religious setting and attendants at Holy Water treatment community; 5. Family caregivers develop a community of mutual support for each other; 6. Severe shortage and poor access to formal biomedical services and appreciation of the collaborative Clinic; 7. Burden, exhaustion, and loss of hope regarding the future.

Conclusion

The study shows that families in Ethiopia face a protracted and heavy caregiver burden in their caretaking duties, often in isolation, with a severe lack of formal biological treatment and psychosocial support. Informal assistance and mutual support form part of the culturally shaped support networks, but there are on-going challenges. Innovative programs with collaborative approach show some promise. More development of community mental health services and support are urgently needed.
Abnormal static and dynamic functional connectivity of striatal subregions in patients with obsessive-compulsive disorder
Authors: Shi Wenqing , Tian Ya , Yang Huiting , Guo Huirong , Wen Baohong , Liu Zijun , Zhang Yong , Han Shaoqiang , Cheng Jingliang
Published: February 2025

Background

As a crucial node of the cortico-striato-thalamo-cortical (CSTC) loop, the striatum has long been considered to be involved in the pathophysiology of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Numerous neuroimaging studies have reported functional abnormalities of the striatum in OCD. However, altered dynamic functional connectivity (DFC) patterns of striatal subregions were rarely reported in patients with OCD.

Methods

We collected resting-state functional MRI data from 97 first episode and drug-naïve OCD patients and 106 HCs matched for gender and age. Seed-based whole-brain resting-state functional connectivity (RSFC) and DFC analysis were performed for 12 striatal subregions. Between-group differences of the mean RSFC and DFC were determined using a two-sample t-test. In addition, we performed a Spearman’s correlation analysis to examine the relationship between altered RSFC and DFC and the clinical characteristics of OCD.

Results

Patients with OCD exhibited increased RSFC between the superior ventral striatum (VSs) and the calcarine (CAL), lingual gyrus (LING), cuneus (CUN), supplementary motor area (SMA), precuneus (PCUN), paracentral lobule (PCL) and superior parietal gyrus (SPG). Increased RSFC between the left dorsal caudal putamen (DCP) and LING and inferior occipital gyrus (IOG) and increased RSFC between left ventral rostral putamen (VRP) and fusiform gyrus (FFG) were also found. in OCD group. The left dorsal caudate (DC) showed increased RSFC with CAL. In addition, OCD patients shows increased RSFC between multiple striatal seeds and cerebellum. The left VSs showed decreased DFC in the OCD patients with the PCUN, SPG and superior occipital gyrus (SOG). The right DC showed decreased DFC with the medial frontal gyrus orbital part (ORBmed), superior frontal gyrus orbital part (ORBsup) and gyrus rectus (REC). OCD severity was associated with DFC values between the right DC and ORBmed (r = 0.209, p = 0.044).

Conclusion

Our study reveals disrupted RSFC and DFC between the striatal subregions and widespread brain regions in OCD patients. The findings highlight the role of the striatum in the neuropathology of OCD at a refined anatomical level and support the CSTC model in OCD.
Assessment of serum biomarker changes following the COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination: a cohort study in Sylhet, Bangladesh
Authors: Akther Shangida , Samiha Fairoz , Sony Sabrina Amita , Haque Mohammad Anamul , Hasnat Mohammad Abul , Islam S. M. Saiful , Ahmed Shamim , Abdullah-Al-Shoeb Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) has spread throughout the world and the current COVID-19 vaccines have shown to be the most effective means of combating the COVID-19. This study focused to examine the status of serum biomarkers in individuals infected and non-infected with SARS-CoV-2, both before and after COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination.

Methods

This study comprised 133 adults aged 35 and older including both academic and non-academic personnel associated with Shahjalal University of Science and Technology in Sylhet, Bangladesh. Participants were evaluated before and after COVID-19 pandemic, as well as following two doses of vaccination. Blood samples were collected to measure different serum biomarkers, including fasting blood sugar (FBS), serum creatinine, serum alanine transaminase (ALT), total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), Low density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), and High density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C). Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software.

Result

In all participants, serum creatinine, FBS and TC levels significantly increased after two doses of vaccination (p = 0.022, 0.006, 0.05) compared to pre-vaccination levels. Notably, all serum biomarkers showed a significant elevation (p ≤ 0.05) in the self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infected group (n = 44). Additionally, 31% of participants were newly diagnosed with hyperglycemia after receiving the COVID-19 vaccine.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that both self-reported SARS-CoV-2 infection and COVID-19 vaccination could influence different serum biomarker levels. However, further comprehensive research is necessary to discern the precise factors contributing to the alterations observed in the serum biomarker levels for future health management strategy.
Practical considerations of clinical XR (AR/VR) deployments
Authors: Morgan Joseph W. , Patel Rahul A. , Campbell Scott
Published: February 2025

Extended Reality (XR), which includes both Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR), shows great promise in healthcare, with applications ranging from surgical simulations to patient rehabilitation and education. To ensure successful deployment, it is essential to address a wide range of different challenges, including those related to clinical efficacy, safety, ethics, technical requirements, institutional demands, provider and hardware considerations, as well as regulatory and reimbursement issues, all within the broader context of the healthcare system. Artificial intelligence, monopolistic payers, and the lack of a clear boundary between the consumer and healthcare spaces all represent both new challenges as well as opportunities. To fully harness XR’s potential, collaboration among technologists, clinicians, and policymakers is essential, ensuring the technology enhances patient care and education while maintaining safety and effectiveness.
Making nanomaterial-enabled nitrate sensors useful for real water systems: user-centric design perspectives
Authors: Defeo Shelby , Erickson Samuel , Perez Mendoza Maria F. , Cooper Alexia , Barrios Bruce , Malone Zachary , Baxter Ryan D. , Ghosh Sayantani , Harmon Thomas C.
Published: February 2025

Water quality monitoring is essential for identifying risks to environmental and human health. Nitrate monitoring is of particular importance, as its anthropogenic point and nonpoint sources are common globally and have deleterious effects on water quality and usability as well as aquatic ecosystem health. Standard methods for assessing nitrate concentrations in water generally involve laboratory techniques, as methods available for field testing face significant tradeoffs between cost, precision, and portability. Given its relatively ubiquitous nature and the widespread regulation of nitrate pollution, it is a prime target for sensor development. The growing field of nanomaterials (e.g., nanoparticles, nanotubes, and 2-dimensional materials) offers the potential to eliminate these tradeoffs through a new generation of field-ready nitrate sensors. However, transitioning nano-sensors from the lab to the field remains challenging. In this perspective we examine the challenges of lab-to-field transition of nano-sensors for nitrate, highlighting the importance of a user-centered design approach under the framework of FOCUS (form factor, operational robustness, cost, user interface, and sensitivity).
Remimazolam mitigates oxidative stress response in patients undergoing one-lung ventilation
Authors: Li Shanshan , Sana Siriguleng , Wang Dan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The effectiveness of remimazolam in suppressing oxidative stress, inflammatory reactions, and its lung-protective effects in patients undergoing thoracic surgery with one-lung ventilation (OLV) remains unestablished. This study aimed to investigate the protective effects of remimazolam against oxidative stress and inflammatory damage in such patients.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial evaluated 88 patients with lung tumors who underwent single-lung ventilation for thoracoscopic lobectomy under general anesthesia. Patients were randomly divided into an experimental group (R group) and a control group (Con group), with 44 patients in each group. The R group received an intravenous injection of 0.2 mg/kg of remimazolam during anesthesia induction. During anesthesia maintenance, a continuous intravenous infusion of remimazolam at a rate of 0.2 mg/kg/h was administered. The Con group received routine anesthesia. Preoperative and postoperative levels of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin (IL)-6 were detected. Changes in blood pressure and heart rate were recorded at four time points: upon entering the operating room (T1), immediately after tracheal intubation (T2), immediately after incision (T3), and immediately after surgery completion (T4). The postoperative awakening time, post-anesthesia care unit (PACU) stay time, and frequency of adverse reactions were also recorded.

Results

Postoperatively, the R group exhibited significantly higher levels of SOD and GSH-Px, and significantly lower levels of TNF-α and IL-6 compared to the Con group (P < 0.01). At T2, the blood pressure and heart rate in R group were significantly higher than those in Con group (P < 0.01), whereas no differences were found between the two groups at other time points. There were no significant differences between the two groups in postoperative awakening time, PACU stay time, or incidence of adverse reactions.

Discussion

Low-dose remimazolam (0.2 mg/kg) can provide protective effects against oxidative stress and inflammatory injuries in patients undergoing OLV, without affecting awakening time or PACU time.
Selenium Uptake by Hericium erinaceus Basidiocarps on Various Substrates and Their Effect on Growth and Yield
Authors: Jozífek Miroslav , Praus Lukáš , Matějka Jaroslav , Jablonský Ivan , Koudela Martin
Published: February 2025

This study investigates selenium (Se) biofortification in four strains of the medicinal mushroom Hericium erinaceus using Se-enriched substrates to assess Se uptake, distribution, and its impact on yield. Experimental substrates included lignocellulosic materials fortified with Se (0, 2, 6, and 18 µg/g) in the form of sodium selenite. Se accumulation varied by strain, with M9521 showing the highest bioaccumulation efficiency, particularly for an unknown Se compound, suggesting unique metabolic pathways. Other strains predominantly accumulated selenomethionine. The bioconcentration factor was highest at 6 µg/g Se, indicating optimal efficiency at this level. Moderate Se supplementation (2–6 µg/g) improved yield, though time to harvest was affected by Se levels in some strains. Substrate composition influenced Se uptake, with wheat bran yielding the highest Se content and soybean hulls maximizing biological efficiency. A strong correlation between C/N and Se content was observed. Se distribution was higher in outer basidiocarp layers, and light intensity during cultivation enhanced Se accumulation. Se uptake decreased with subsequent flushes at medium and high supplementation levels, while substrates maintained the same bioavailable Se. The results highlight the potential of Se-enriched Hericium erinaceus as a functional food source and the role of substrate and cultivation conditions in optimizing Se content.
Pollen Production and Nutrient Composition in Two Northern Highbush Blueberry Cultivars: Implications for Pollinator Nutrition
Authors: Chakrabarti Priyadarshini , Baugus Lauren , Eaton Ethan , Steinhauer Nathalie A. , Sagili Ramesh R.
Published: February 2025

Specialty crops like blueberries depend heavily on pollinators, particularly bees, for enhanced fruit set and optimized yield. The Northern highbush blueberry, widely cultivated in the Pacific Northwest of the United States, includes several key cultivars such as ‘Duke’ and ‘Elliott’. Given that pollination efficiency is directly linked to the availability and quality of pollen, understanding the pollen production of these cultivars is critical for optimizing pollination strategies and maximizing fruit yield throughout the growing season. Additionally, as bees depend on floral resources like nectar and pollen for their nutrition, the nutritional quality of pollen from these blueberry cultivars plays a key role in supporting healthy bee populations. This study compares key pollen parameters, including production and nutritional quality, between the ‘Duke’ and ‘Elliott’ cultivars. ‘Elliott’ produced nearly twice the amount of pollen per flower by weight compared to ‘Duke’. Both cultivars showed relatively low pollen protein content and comparable pollen lipid levels. The analysis of phytosterol composition revealed significant differences between the cultivars. This study contributes to a more detailed understanding on the quantitative and qualitative differences in pollen, and ultimately provides insights that can inform cultivation practices and enhance overall blueberry production.
Advancements in Leaf Area Index Estimation for Maize Using Modeling and Remote Sensing Techniques: A Review
Authors: Bakó Károly , Rácz Csaba , Dövényi-Nagy Tamás , Molnár Krisztina , Dobos Attila
Published: February 2025

Maize is an important crop used as food, feed, and industrial raw material. Therefore, it is critical to maximize maize yield on available land by using optimal inputs and adapting to challenges posed by climate change. The Leaf Area Index (LAI) is a key parameter that provides significant assistance in forecasting maize yields. This study focuses on modeling the Leaf Area Index for maize. Specifically, it compiles and systematizes the main findings of papers published over the past approximately 10–15 years. Our results are organized and presented based on the five most commonly used models: CERES-Maize, AquaCrop, WOFOST, APSIM, and RZWQM2. The limitations of these models’ applicability are also discussed. We present the limitations of these models and compare their minimum climate input requirements. Additionally, we evaluate the performance of the models across different climate zones, explore how the integration of remote sensing data sources can enhance model estimation accuracy, and examine the potential for spatial scalability in maize LAI modeling.
Impact of Reflective Ground Film on Fruit Quality, Condition, and Post-Harvest of Sweet Cherry (Prunus avium L.) cv. Regina Cultivated Under Plastic Cover in Southern Chile
Authors: Muñoz-Alarcón Ariel , Palacios-Peralta Cristóbal , González-Villagra Jorge , Carrasco-Catricura Nicolás , Osorio Pamela , Ribera-Fonseca Alejandra
Published: February 2025

Plastic covers protect fruits from cracking caused by pre-harvest rains in sweet cherry orchards; however, they can decrease the quality parameters of cherries, such as firmness, titratable acidity, color, and sugar content. This study evaluated the impact of a reflective ground film used for 21 or 34 DBH (days before harvest) in a commercial sweet cherry orchard (cv. Regina) grown under plastic cover in southern Chile. Our study showed that the exposition of cherry trees to the reflective film increased firmness and total soluble solid (TSS) content in fruits at harvest, homogenizing the concentration of sugars in fruits along the tree canopy. Additionally, using reflective film for 21 DBH increased the proportion of fruits greater than 32 mm in the upper canopy and the quantity of mahogany-colored cherries in the lower canopy, compared to trees un-exposed to the reflective film. Concerning fruit condition defects, the results reveal that using the reflective film increased the incidence of cracking in fruits in both the upper and lower zones of the canopy. Furthermore, we found that the incidence of orange skin and pitting in fruits decreased at post-harvest in trees exposed to the reflective film, but depending on the canopy zones. Moreover, fruits of trees exposed to the film for 34 DBH exhibited a higher incidence of browning pedicel post-harvest. Finally, according to our results, the antioxidant activity increased in fruits exposed to the reflective film for 21 DBH. Therefore, we can conclude that using reflective films on sweet cherry orchards can improve and homogenize the maturity parameters and the antioxidant activity of fruits; however, this practice can negatively impact the condition of fruits post-harvest.
Impact of Glucose, Inflammation and Phytochemicals on ACE2, TMPRSS2 and Glucose Transporter Gene Expression in Human Intestinal Cells
Authors: Visvanathan Rizliya , Houghton Michael J. , Williamson Gary
Published: February 2025

Inflammation is associated with the pathophysiology of type 2 diabetes and COVID-19. Phytochemicals have the potential to modulate inflammation, expression of SARS-CoV-2 viral entry receptors (angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACE2) and transmembrane protease, serine 2 (TMPRSS2)) and glucose transport in the gut. This study assessed the impact of phytochemicals on these processes. We screened 12 phytochemicals alongside 10 pharmaceuticals and three plant extracts, selected for known or hypothesised effects on the SARS-CoV-2 receptors and COVID-19 risk, for their effects on the expression of ACE2 or TMPRSS2 in differentiated Caco-2/TC7 human intestinal epithelial cells. Genistein, apigenin, artemisinin and sulforaphane were the most promising ones, as assessed by the downregulation of TMPRSS2, and thus they were used in subsequent experiments. The cells were then co-stimulated with pro-inflammatory cytokines interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α) for ≤168 h to induce inflammation, which are known to induce multiple pathways, including the nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) pathway. Target gene expression (ACE2, TMPRSS2, SGLT1 (sodium-dependent glucose transporter 1) and GLUT2 (glucose transporter 2)) was measured by droplet digital PCR, while interleukin-1 (IL-6), interleukin-1 (IL-8) and ACE2 proteins were assessed using ELISA in both normal and inflamed cells. IL-1β and TNF-α treatment upregulated ACE2, TMPRSS2 and SGLT1 gene expression. ACE2 increased with the duration of cytokine exposure, coupled with a significant decrease in IL-8, SGLT1 and TMPRSS2 over time. Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the increase in ACE2 was strongly associated with a decrease in IL-8 (r = −0.77, p < 0.01). The regulation of SGLT1 gene expression followed the same pattern as TMPRSS2, implying a common mechanism. Although none of the phytochemicals decreased inflammation-induced IL-8 secretion, genistein normalised inflammation-induced increases in SGLT1 and TMPRSS2. The association between TMPRSS2 and SGLT1 gene expression, which is particularly evident in inflammatory conditions, suggests a common regulatory pathway. Genistein downregulated the inflammation-induced increase in SGLT1 and TMPRSS2, which may help lower the postprandial glycaemic response and COVID-19 risk or severity in healthy individuals and those with metabolic disorders.
Correction: Park et al. Automatic Movie Tag Generation System for Improving the Recommendation System. Appl. Sci. 2022, 12, 10777
Authors: Park Hyogyeong , Yong Sungjung , You Yeonhwi , Lee Seoyoung , Moon Il-Young
Published: February 2025

In the original publication [...]
The Impact of Air Pollutant Exposure on Diabetes Hospital Admissions in a City in Xinjiang
Authors: Fu Zhicong , Gong Haoxuan , Hu Xiaopeng , Xie Yuting , Rui Dongsheng
Published: February 2025

Emerging evidence highlights air pollution as a critical environmental risk factor for diabetes exacerbation. In Xinjiang’s unique climatic context, characterized by prolonged heating seasons and temperature inversions, pollutant dispersion is severely constrained, potentially amplifying health impacts. This study will collect the daily hospitalization admissions of 10 comprehensive hospitals in a certain city in Xinjiang from 2021 to 2022, along with air pollutants and meteorological monitoring data during the same period. The relationship between air pollutant concentrations and the daily hospital admission rates of diabetes patients was analyzed using a distributed lag non-linear model. There was no statistically significant difference between the impact of PM2.5 and PM10 exposure on daily hospital admission rates, with RR values reaching peak values at lag5 and lag0 days of 1.06 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.12) and 1.08 (95% CI: 1.00, 1.16), respectively. NO, SO2, O3, and CO affected the daily hospital admission rate of diabetic patients, with RR values reaching peak values at lag5, lag1, lag5, and lag2 days of 1.21 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.31), 1.69 (95% CI: 1.43, 1.99), 1.23 (95% CI: 1.14, 1.34), and 1.36 (95% CI: 1.21, 1.53), respectively. PM10 had an immediate effect only on the daily hospital admission rate of males, reaching a peak at lag0 day of 1.16 (95% CI: 1.05, 1.28); NO2 displayed the largest RR values for females and those over 65 years of age at 1.26 (95% CI: 1.11, 1.44) and 1.23 (95% CI: 1.07, 1.41), respectively, and these results were statistically significant. The results show that exposure to NO2, SO2, O3, and CO increased the risk of hospitalization for diabetes. The diabetic population of women and those over 65 years of age were more vulnerable to exposure to NO2 and CO, resulting in an increased hospitalization risk. During the entire day and the period from 9 AM to 9 PM, the trend of the influence of NO2 on the daily hospitalization admission of diabetic patients varies the most, while there is no obvious change trend for the other pollutants.
Spacelike Hypersurfaces in de Sitter Space
Authors: Li Yanlin , Bin-Asfour Mona , Albalawi Kholoud Saad , Guediri Mohammed
Published: February 2025

A closed conformal vector field in de Sitter space S1n+1c¯ induces a vector field on a spacelike hypersurface M of S1n+1c¯, referred to as the induced vector field on M. This article investigates the characterization of compact spacelike hypersurfaces in de Sitter space without assuming the constancy of the mean curvature. Specifically, we establish that under certain conditions, a compact spacelike hypersurface in S1n+1c¯ is a sphere, that is, a totally umbilical hypersurface with constant mean curvature. We also present a different characterization of compact spacelike hypersurfaces in de Sitter space as spheres by using a lower bound on the integral of the Ricci curvature of the compact hypersurface in the direction of the induced vector field. We also consider de Sitter space as a Robertson–Walker space and provide several characterizations of spheres within its spacelike hypersurfaces.
Structural Plasticity of Flavin-Dependent Thymidylate Synthase Controlled by the Enzyme Redox State
Authors: Pecqueur Ludovic , Lombard Murielle , Hamdane Djemel
Published: February 2025

2′-Deoxythymidine-5′-monophosphate, dTMP, is an essential precursor of thymine, one of the four canonical bases of DNA. In almost all living organisms, dTMP is synthesized de novo by a reductive methylation reaction of 2′-deoxyuridine-5′-monophosphate (dUMP) catalyzed by the thymidylate synthase, where the carbon used for the methylation is derived from methylenetetrahydrofolate (CH2THF). Many microbes, including human pathogens, utilize the flavin-dependent thymidylate synthase encoded by the thyX gene to generate dTMP. The mechanism of action relies on the reduced coenzyme FADH−, which acts both as a mediator, facilitating methylene transfer from CH2THF to dUMP, and as a reducing agent. Here, we present for the first-time crystallographic structures of ThyX from Thermotoga maritima in the reduced state alone and in complex with dUMP. ThyX flavin reduction appears to order the active site, favoring a flavin conformation that drastically deviates from that observed in the oxidized enzyme. The structures show that FADH− potentially controls access to the folate site and the conformation of two active site loops, affecting the degree of accessibility of substrate pockets to the solvent. Our results provide the molecular basis for the sequential enzyme mechanism implemented by ThyX during dTMP biosynthesis.
Topical Application of VitB6 Ameliorates PM2.5-Induced Dry Eye via NFκB Pathway in a Murine Model
Authors: Hu Jinyu , Zeng Yanmei , Tang Liying , Ye Lei , Chen Cheng , Ling Qian , Wang Xiaoyu , He Liangqi , Chen Xu , Wang Yixin , Ge Qianmin , Shao Yi
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Dry eye (DE) is mainly characterized by dryness, foreign body sensation, eye pain and visual impairment. Their possible causes are mainly inflammation, tissue damage and neurosensory abnormalities, and vitamin B6 (VitB6) attenuates the inflammatory response by modulating the NF-κB pathway to quench reactive oxygen species (ROS). The aim of this experiment was to investigate the therapeutic effect of VitB6 eye drops on particulate matter 2.5 (PM2.5)-induced dry eye in mice. Methods: Mice induced with the dry eye group were first induced using PM2.5 eye drops in a standard environment for 14 days, and then treated with different concentrations of VitB6 eye drops for 14 consecutive days. The phenol red cotton test was used to measure tear production. Ocular inflammation index and tear film function were evaluated by slim microscopy. Hematoxylin–eosin (HE) staining was used to observe conjunctival and corneal structure. Periodate–Schiff (PAS) staining was used to quantify conjunctival goblet cells. Corneal cell apoptosis was determined by TUNEL assay. The expression of keratin 10 (K10) and p-NF-κB p65 was detected by immunofluorescent staining and Western blot analysis. Results: Mice using only the PM2.5 model all exhibited varying degrees of dry eye symptoms. VitB6 treatment increased tear secretion and reduced inflammatory indices in mice with increased nerve density and number of branches in the basement membrane of the corneal epithelium. Conclusions: We found that administering VitB6 eye drops has a therapeutic effect in PM2.5-induced DE. This observation suggests that VitB6 may be useful in the clinical therapy of DE.
Transgenic iPSC Lines with Genetically Encoded MitoTimer to Study Mitochondrial Biogenesis in Dopaminergic Neurons with Tauopathy
Authors: Nadtochy Julia A. , Medvedev Sergey P. , Grigor’eva Elena V. , Pavlova Sophia V. , Minina Julia M. , Chechushkov Anton V. , Malakhova Anastasia A. , Kovalenko Liudmila V. , Zakian Suren M.
Published: February 2025

Background: Tauopathy has been identified as a prevalent causative agent of neurodegenerative diseases, including frontotemporal dementia with parkinsonism-17 (FTDP-17). This rare hereditary neurodegenerative condition is characterised by the manifestation of parkinsonism and behavioural changes. The majority of cases of FTDP-17 are associated with mutations in the MAPT gene, which encodes the tau protein. MAPT mutations lead to disruption of the balance between 3R and 4R tau forms, which causes destabilisation of microtubules and impairment of cellular organelle functions, particularly mitochondrial dysfunction. The development of model systems and tools for studying the molecular, genetic, and biochemical mechanisms underlying FTDP-17 and testing therapies at the cellular level is an urgent necessity. Methods: In this study, we generated transgenic lines of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a patient carrying the pathogenic mutation c.2013T > G (rs63750756, p.N279K) of MAPT and a healthy donor. A doxycycline-controlled transgene of the genetically encoded biosensor MitoTimer was integrated into the AAVS1 locus of these cells. The MitoTimer biosensor allows for lifetime monitoring of the turnover of mitochondria in neuronal cells derived from directed iPSC differentiation. The fact that transcription of the transgene can be induced by doxycycline provides additional possibilities for pulse labelling of newly formed mitochondria. Results: Transgenic iPSC lines provide a unique tool to study the molecular and genetic mechanisms of FTDP-17 caused by the presence of the c.2013T > G (p.N279K) mutation, as well as to test potential drugs in vitro.
Immediate Changes in the Elasticity of Tissue and the Pain Pressure Threshold in Cesarean Scar Tissue After a Vacuum Intervention: An Open Clinical Trial
Authors: González-Muñoz Ana , Navarro-Ledesma Santiago
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Cesarean section (C-section) scars are commonly linked to reduced tissue elasticity and increased pain due to adhesion formation. Addressing these concerns is essential to improving patient comfort and functional outcomes. This study aimed to assess the immediate effects of vacuum therapy on skin elasticity and pain sensitivity in C-section scar tissue. Methods: Thirty-one women with C-section scars older than six months and less than two years participated in an open clinical trial. The skin elasticity was assessed using the Adheremeter, and the pain sensitivity was measured through the Pressure Pain Threshold (PPT) using algometry. The intervention consisted of a 15 min vacuum therapy session using the AeroFlow® device that targeted the scar and surrounding areas. Results: The vacuum therapy intervention resulted in significant improvements in the skin elasticity at multiple assessment points, particularly in regions with fascial restrictions (p < 0.05). Concurrently, the PPT values decreased, indicating a reduction in pain sensitivity around the scar area (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that vacuum therapy may enhance tissue flexibility and alleviate pain in adherent C-section scars. Conclusions: This study demonstrated the potential of vacuum therapy as an effective intervention to improve skin elasticity and reduce pain sensitivity in C-section scars. The Adheremeter-based assessment provided valuable insights into the biomechanical properties of scar tissue and supported its use in scar management protocols. This approach offers a promising, non-invasive strategy for personalized scar treatment, ultimately aiming to enhance patient outcomes and quality of life.
A Pneumatic Soft Glove System Based on Bidirectional Bending Functionality for Rehabilitation
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Cheng Qinkun , Wang Zhifeng , Lu Yongxu , Zhang Zhaowei , Zhao Xingang
Published: February 2025

Stroke-related hand dysfunction significantly limits the ability to perform daily activities. Pneumatic soft gloves can provide rehabilitation training and support for individuals with impaired hand function, enhancing their independence. This paper presents a novel pneumatic soft robotic system for hand rehabilitation featuring bidirectional bending actuators. The system comprises a pneumatic soft glove and a pneumatic control platform, enabling various rehabilitation gestures and assisting with finger grasping. The main bending module of the pneumatic soft actuator features a three-stage cavity structure, allowing for a wider range of finger rehabilitation training gestures and greater bending angles. The reverse-bending module uses a trapezoidal cavity design to enhance the reverse-bending capability, effectively facilitating finger extension motion. The pneumatic control platform is simple to set up, but effectively controls the actuators of the soft glove, which enables both main and reverse bending. This allows individuals with hand impairments to perform various gestures and grasp different objects. Experiments demonstrate that the pneumatic soft glove has a measurable load capacity. Additionally, the pneumatic soft glove system is capable of executing single-finger movements, a variety of rehabilitation gestures, and the ability to grasp different objects. This functionality is highly beneficial for the rehabilitation of individuals with hand impairments.
Controllable Functionalization of Carbon Dots as Selective and Sensitive Fluorescent Probes for Sensing Cu(II) Ions
Authors: Zheng Xiaochun , Zhang Hao , Jiang Haoming , Sun Lei , Sun Yuanze , Liu Qingcao , Ren Shoutian , Zhuang Yunpeng , Gong Xiaofeng
Published: February 2025

Carbon dots (CDs) are efficient fluorescent probes for metal ion detection due to their high sensitivity, nontoxicity and stability, but their rich functional groups lead to simultaneous responses to multiple ions. So, how to realize highly selective detection for specific ions is still a challenging task. In this work, “bare CDs” were synthesized using the electrochemical stripping method, followed by grafting with hydroxyl and carboxyl groups following the hydrothermal method with boric acid. Transmission electron microscopy, an X-ray diffractometer, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, UV–visible spectrophotometers and a fluorescence spectrometer were used to characterize their morphology, surface functional groups and optical properties, respectively. The modified CDs exhibit a high sensitivity of 65% and selectivity towards Cu2+. Meanwhile, they also exhibited a short response time of less than 1 min and a good stability in terms of pH and ionic strength.
Doce de Leite Production: An Overview of the Different Industrial Production Technologies
Authors: Pinto Caroline Barroso dos Anjos , Schwarzenbolz Uwe , Henle Thomas , Wolfschoon-Pombo Alan Frederick , Perrone Ítalo Tuler , Stephani Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Doce de leite is a caramel-like confection, mainly produced in several Latin American countries, with increasing popularity worldwide. This overview outlines nine distinct industrial technologies for the production of doce de leite: (1) total batch manufacturing process; (2) batch manufacturing system with fractionated mix addition; (3) manufacturing with pre-concentration in a vacuum evaporator and finishing in an open pan; (4) manufacturing with pre-concentration in a vacuum evaporator, finishing in an open pan, and lactose micro-crystallization; (5) continuous flow manufacturing with total concentration in a vacuum evaporator and a viscosity control holding tank (hot well); (6) manufacturing with total concentration in a vacuum evaporator and sterilization in an autoclave system; (7) manufacturing with sucrose pre-caramelization and a total batch system; (8) manufacturing in colloidal mill without an evaporation process; and (9) manufacturing based of doce de leite bars with a sucrose crystallization stage. We conducted a literature review to gather data on the discussed processes and their principal characteristics, which may be pertinent to doce de leite manufacturers. The choice of a specific process will depend on the desired doce de leite characteristics, the type of doce de leite to be produced, and the manufacturing company’s requirements. When properly integrated, these technologies contribute to efficient and profitable production, yielding high-quality products with appropriate chemical, microbiological, and sensory characteristics at an industrial scale.
Can Dermoscopy Be a Useful Follow-Up Tool in Patients with Discoid Lupus Treated with Anifrolumab?
Authors: Ambrogio Francesca , Foti Caterina , Noviello Silvia , Cazzato Gerardo , Meduri Alexandre Raphael , Marasco Carolina , Vacca Angelo , Tirone Benedetta
Published: February 2025

This report discusses a female patient with longstanding discoid lupus erythematosus (DLE) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), refractory to multiple immunosuppressive and biologic treatments. Upon presenting with infiltrated, hypertrophic plaques in facial and décolletage regions, she was started on anifrolumab therapy after the histopathological confirmation of DLE. Following three infusions, significant clinical and dermoscopic improvements were observed, including the resolution of plaques and regression of scarring areas. This case highlights anifrolumab’s efficacy in severe lupus skin manifestations, emphasizing its potential to induce dermoscopic and histological remission. Additionally, it suggests that dermoscopy could be a valuable tool for monitoring therapeutic responses in DLE and cutaneous lupus erythematosus, warranting further investigation.
Regressed Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma with Anaplastic Transformation into Lymph Node Metastasis: Case Report with Review of the Literature
Authors: Kovacevic Bozidar , Rancic Bojana , Jovic Sasa , Cerovic Snezana , Skuletic Vesna , Karajovic Jelena , Gardasevic Milka , Supic Gordana , Kakudo Kennichi
Published: February 2025

Background: Small papillary thyroid carcinomas with the largest dimension of 10 mm are slow-growing and self-limiting tumors, most of which have no potential for progression, rarely becoming clinically evident carcinomas or undergoing regressive changes. Their anaplastic transformation, primarily in the thyroid gland or into lymph node metastasis, is extremely rare. Case Presentation: A 66-year-old female patient was admitted to our hospital for diagnostics and treatment of a large tumor on the left neck side. Preoperative imaging and cytological findings of the neck tumor suggested metastasis of papillary thyroid carcinoma. Total thyroidectomy and metastasectomy were performed. In the final diagnosis, anaplastic transformation of the papillary thyroid carcinoma’s metastasis in the neck was confirmed. Opposite to advanced dedifferentiation of metastasis, primary tumor foci in the thyroid were regressed and replaced with sclerosis and microcalcification. The synchronous co-occurrence of incidental primary thyroid carcinoma and anaplastic thyroid carcinoma originating from ectopic cervical thyroid tissue was considered diagnostically. Conclusions: The case highlights the necessity of regular monitoring of the thyroid and neck lymph nodes for patients under active surveillance, including those with small calcified tumor foci. This paper also comprehensively reviews the existing literature on this topic.
Preoperative Adult-Type Diffuse Glioma Subtype Prediction with Dynamic Contrast-Enhanced MR Imaging and Diffusion Weighted Imaging in Tumor Cores and Peritumoral Tissue—A Standardized Multicenter Study
Authors: Zerweck Leonie , Klose Uwe , Würtemberger Urs , Richter Vivien , Nägele Thomas , Gohla Georg , Grundmann-Hauser Kathrin , Estler Arne , Ruff Christer , Erb Gunter , Ernemann Ulrike , Hauser Till-Karsten
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The non-invasive identification of glioma subtypes is useful for initial diagnosis, treatment planning, and follow-up. The aim of this study was to evaluate the performance of diffusion kurtosis imaging (DKI) and dynamic contrast-enhanced (DCE)-MRI in differentiating subtypes of adult-type diffuse gliomas. Methods: In a prospective multicenter study, standardized MRI was analyzed in 59 patients with adult-type diffuse glioma. DKI and DCE-MRI parameter values were quantitatively evaluated in ROIs of contrast-enhancing/solid tumor and four concentric shells of peritumoral tissue. The parameter means of glioblastomas, IDH wildtype; astrocytomas, IDH mutant; and oligodendrogliomas, IDH mutant were compared. Binary logistic regression analyses were performed to differentiate between IDH mutant and IDH wildtype gliomas and between IDH mutant astrocytomas and oligodendrogliomas. ROC curves were analyzed for each parameter and for combined regression. Results: Significant differences between the three aforementioned subtypes were found for the DKI and DCE-MRI parameters, depending on the distance to the tumor core. A combination of the parameters’ apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and fractional volume of extravascular extracellular space (ve) revealed the best prediction of IDH mutant vs. wildtype gliomas (AUC = 0.976 (0.943–1.000)) and astrocytomas vs. oligodendrogliomas (AUC = 0.840 (0.645–1.000)) with the lowest Akaike information criterion. Conclusions: The combined evaluation of DKI and DCE-MRI at different distances to the contrast-enhancing/solid tumor seems to be helpful in predicting glioma subtypes according to the WHO 2021 classification.
The Impact of Social Determinants of Health, Health Resources, and Environmental Factors on Infant Mortality Rates in Three Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) Countries
Authors: Al Saidi Moossa Amur Nasser , Eltayib Rawaa Abubakr Abuelgassim , Wirayuda Anak Agung Bagus , Al Sumri Hana Harib , Chan Moon Fai
Published: February 2025

Worldwide, there has been a notable decline in the infant mortality rate (IMR) in the last 20 years. Regionally, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries echo the global trends to a certain extent. This study aims to explore the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH), health resources (HRS), and environmental (ENV) factors on the IMR in Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait. It is a retrospective time-series study using yearly data from 1990 to 2022. Partial Least Square Structural Equation Model (PLS-SEM) was utilized to construct an exploratory model of the IMR for each country. The results showed that SDOH, HRS, and ENV factors influenced IMRs in three GCC countries. In all three countries’ models, only HRS exerted a direct effect on the IMR (Bahrain: −0.966, 95% CI −0.987 to −0.949; Kuwait: −0.939, 95% CI −0.979 to −0.909; and Qatar: −0.941, 95% CI −0.976 to −0.910). On the other hand, ENV factors and SDOH only influenced the IMR indirectly and negatively. Their beta coefficients ranged from −0.745 to −0.805 for ENV factors and −0.815 to −0.876 for SDOH. This study emphasizes the importance of adopting multi-faceted public health strategies that focus on improving socioeconomic conditions, expanding healthcare resources, and reducing environmental degradation. By adopting these multi-dimensional approaches, Bahrain, Qatar, and Kuwait can continue to progress in reducing IMRs and improving overall public health outcomes.
Optimizing Kubernetes Scheduling for Web Applications Using Machine Learning
Authors: Dakić Vedran , Đambić Goran , Slovinac Jurica , Redžepagić Jasmin
Published: February 2025

Machine learning (ML) has significantly enhanced computing and optimization, offering solutions to complex challenges. This paper investigates the development of a custom Kubernetes scheduler employing ML to optimize web application placement. A cluster of five nodes was established for evaluation, utilizing Python and TensorFlow to create and train a neural network that forecasts scheduling times for various configurations. The dataset, generated via scripts, encompassed multiple scenarios to ensure thorough model training. The results indicate that the custom scheduler with ML consistently surpasses the default Kubernetes scheduler in scheduling time by 1–18%, depending on the scenario. As expected, the difference between the built-in and ML-based scheduler becomes more evident with higher loads, underscoring opportunities for future research by using other ML algorithms and considering energy efficiency.
A Smart Space Focus Enhancement System Based on Grey Wolf Algorithm Positioning and Generative Adversarial Networks for Database Augmentation
Authors: Cai Jia-You , Luo Yu-Yong , Cheng Chia-Hsin
Published: February 2025

In the age of technological advancement, brainwave monitoring and attention tracking are critical for individual productivity and organizational efficiency. However, distractions pose significant challenges, making an effective brainwave monitoring and attention system essential. Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) enhance medical datasets by synthesizing diverse samples. This paper explores their application in improving datasets for indoor positioning and brainwave monitoring-based attention tracking. The goal is to develop an intelligent lighting system that adjusts settings based on users’ brainwave states and positions. GANs enhance brainwave monitoring and positioning datasets, with Principal Component Analysis (PCA) applied for dimensionality reduction. machine learning and deep learning models train on these augmented datasets, enabling dynamic lighting adjustments to optimize user experience. GANs undergo parameter fine-tuning to improve dataset quality. Various classification models, including neural networks (NN), K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), are used for brainwave monitoring, attention, and positioning. Fuzzy logic enhances system stability. The trained models are integrated with hardware components, such as the Raspberry Pi 4, to implement an “Indoor Positioning Deep Learning Brainwave Monitoring and Attention Monitoring System Based on the Grey Wolf Optimizer Algorithm”. Experimental results demonstrate a positioning accuracy of 15 cm and significant improvements in brainwave monitoring and attention tracking.