bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the Efficacy and Safety of Erenumab, a Monoclonal Antibody Targeting Calcitonin Gene-related Peptide (CGRP) Receptor, in Patients with Chronic and Episodic Migraine: A GRADE-assessed Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials with Subgroup Analysis
Authors: Haseeb Mohamed E. , Mohammed Hazem E. , Yaser Hatem , Hanen George , Nasser Mohamed , Yaser Shehab , Bady Zeyad
Published: October 2024

Background
Migraine is a highly prevalent and disabling disease, affecting nearly 14% of the global population. Preventive medications involve drugs like beta-adrenergic blockers, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants. However, these drugs lacked effectiveness, and patients showed poor tolerance and low adherence to them. Erenumab, a calcitonin gene-related peptide receptor blocker, has recently shown promising results in migraine management. In this meta-analysis, the efficacy of Erenumab is investigated by employing a subgroup analysis approach.
Methods
A systematic search of six electronic databases was conducted until July 2024. Review Manager 5.4 software was utilized for the analysis, which was based on either weighted mean difference (MD) and standard deviation (SD) for continuous outcomes or risk ratio (RR) for dichotomous outcomes, with a confidence interval (CI) of 95%. A P-value < 0.05 indicated statistical significance. The study was registered on PROSPERO with registration number CRD42024573300. Additionally, we conducted subgroup analyses and assessed the quality of evidence using GRADE.
Results
A total of 20 randomized controlled trials (n = 5212) were included in our analysis. At three months, Erenumab showed statistically significant improvements in monthly migraine days (MMD), monthly acute migraine-specific medication days (MSMD), Headache Impact Test (HIT-6) score, and ≥ 50% reduction from baseline in MMD (MD: -1.78, 95% CI: [-2.37 to -1.20], P < 0.00001), (MD: -1.36, 95% CI: [-1.92 to -0.81], P < 0.00001), (MD: -2.83, 95% CI: [-3.83 to -1.82], P < 0.00001), and (RR: 1.52, 95% CI: [1.31 to 1.76], P < 0.00001), respectively. Subgroup analysis revealed that Erenumab was significantly more effective in patients with prior preventive treatment failures compared to patients with no prior failure. No significant difference in Erenumab`s response existed between episodic and chronic migraine or between 140 mg and 70 mg, except for MSMD in dose subgrouping. Only constipation and injection-site pain emerged as significant adverse effects in the Erenumab group.
Conclusions
This meta-analysis found that Erenumab significantly reduced migraine attack frequency, medication days, and physical impairment. It was more effective for patients with prior treatment failures. The 140 mg dose showed better MSMD reduction than 70 mg. Erenumab's safety profile was similar to that of placebo, with only constipation and injection-site pain noted.
Case report: CT Manifestations of Primary Esophageal Tuberculosis
Authors: Huang Zhong , Zhang Shaoyong , Liao Ruikun , Wang Zhi
Published: October 2024

Background
Primary esophageal tuberculosis is an uncommon manifestation of Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection in Asian adults, often presenting with nonspecific symptoms that can complicate diagnosis. This report details a case of primary esophageal tuberculosis in middle age female, emphasizing the diagnostic value of computed tomography (CT) imaging.
Case presentation
The patient, a 46-year-old female from Sichuan Province, China, experienced recurrent choking and mild retrosternal pain postprandially. She exhibited a weight loss of approximately 1 kg over a week, without additional symptoms such as dysphagia or fever. Esophagoscopy disclosed a small ulcer, and CT imaging revealed esophageal wall thickening with mucosal ulceration. A left thoracic lower and middle esophagectomy was conducted, with postoperative pathology confirming granulomatous inflammation, indicative of tuberculosis.
Conclusions
This case highlights the pivotal role of CT imaging in diagnosing primary esophageal tuberculosis. The imaging modality's ability to delineate subtle mucosal ulcerations and wall thickening provides a crucial diagnostic advantage, facilitating accurate and timely diagnosis of this rare condition.
Exploring the deficiencies in technical skills postgraduate surgical training prior to the COVID- 19 pandemic: A systematic review and thematic analysis
Authors: Siddharth Aditi , Tucker Nadia Muspratt , Sakurai Hikari , Aitken Debbie , Higham Helen
Published: October 2024

Background: Postgraduate surgical training has evolved significantly, transitioning from traditional apprenticeship models to more structured competency-based programs. Despite these changes, concerns persist regarding the adequacy of technical skills (TS) training, exacerbated by modern challenges such as working time restrictions and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. This systematic review aimed to explore and understand TS training for doctors in postgraduate surgical training programs, focusing on issues prior to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Methods. The search strategy was registered with PROSPERO a priori. Following PRISMA guidance, literature searches were conducted on electronic databases: Medline, Embase and grey literature using specific search criteria of studies published from 2016 to 2018. Studies that discussed TS postgraduate training in surgical specialities were eligible for inclusion. Data were extracted and analysed using inductive coding and thematic analysis.
Results: Seventeen studies were included in the final analysis, predominantly from high-income countries. Thematic analysis revealed two main deficiencies in TS training: inadequate use of a multimodal approach and insufficient structure in training programs. Simulation training, while beneficial, was underutilised. Additionally, there were significant global discrepancies in training length and required competencies, with trainees often feeling less independent than expected upon programme completion.
Conclusion: The review identifies critical areas for improving surgical training, emphasizing the need for a multimodal training approach and a more structured framework for delivery. These findings are particularly relevant for post-pandemic recovery efforts in surgical education, providing a foundation for targeted improvements in training programs.
H-NMR metabolomics identifies three distinct metabolic profiles differentially associated with cardiometabolic risk in patients with obesity in the Di@bet.es cohort
Authors: Ozcariz Enrique , Guardiola Montse , Amigó Núria , Valdés Sergio , Oualla-Bachiri Wassima , Rehues Pere , Rojo-Martínez Gemma , Ribalta Josep
Published: October 2024

Background:
Obesity is a complex, diverse and multifactorial disease that has become a major public health concern in the last decades. The current classification systems relies on anthropometric measurements, such as BMI, that are unable to capture the physiopathological diversity of this disease. The aim of this study was to redefine the classification of obesity based on the different H-NMR metabolomics profiles found in individuals with obesity to better assess the risk of future development of cardiometabolic disease.
Materials and methods:
Serum samples of a subset of the Di@bet.es cohort consisting of 1387 individuals with obesity were analyzed by H-NMR. A K-means algorithm was deployed to define different H-NMR metabolomics-based clusters. Then, the association of these clusters with future development of cardiometabolic disease was evaluated using different univariate and multivariate statistical approaches. Moreover, machine learning-based models were built to predict the development of future cardiometabolic disease using BMI and waist-to-hip circumference ratio measures in combination with H-NMR metabolomics.
Results:
Three clusters with no differences in BMI nor in waist-to-hip circumference ratio but with very different metabolomics profiles were obtained. The first cluster showed a metabolically healthy profile, whereas atherogenic dyslipidemia and hypercholesterolemia were predominant in the second and third clusters, respectively. Individuals within the cluster of atherogenic dyslipidemia were found to be at a higher risk of developing type 2 DM in a 8 years follow-up. On the other hand, individuals within the cluster of hypercholesterolemia showed a higher risk of suffering a cardiovascular event in the follow-up. The individuals with a metabolically healthy profile displayed a lower association with future cardiometabolic disease, even though some association with future development of type 2 DM was still observed. In addition, H-NMR metabolomics improved the prediction of future cardiometabolic disease in comparison with models relying on just anthropometric measures.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrated the benefits of using precision techniques like H-NMR to better assess the risk of obesity-derived cardiometabolic disease.
Multiple Mesenchymal Stem Cell Derived Extracellular Vesicle Administration Accelerates Healing and Ameliorates Tissue Scarring Compared with Single Application in Full Thickness Cutaneous Wounds
Authors: Golroudbari Hasti Tashak , Rajablou Nadia , Soltani Zahra Ebrahim , Heirani-Tabasi Asieh , Nazari Hojjatollah , Arabmohammadi Parisa , Banikarimi Armaghan , Behboudi Behnam , Kazemeini Alireza , Tarafdari Azadeh , Tafti Seyed Mohsen Ahmadi
Published: October 2024

Background
Impaired wound healing is still challenging for patients and health care providers. Healing is a complex multiphasic process that is mediated by paracrine signaling. In recent years, human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cell (hUC-MSC) derived extracellular vesicles (EVs) have shown promising effects on healing acceleration by modifying intercellular interactions. However, they will be promptly washed out after local injection and are almost depleted from the injured site in five days. Therefore, single-dose administration may fail to affect all phases of the healing process. In this study, we evaluated the advantages of multi-administration over its single injection following full-thickness cutaneous wound induction in rats.
Methods
EVs were isolated from human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells and characterized. These particles were administered locally in the EV-treated wounds. The level of inflammatory (TNF-α and TGF-β) and angiogenesis (CD31) factors were evaluated through the study to compare multiple dose EV administered, single dose EV administered, and control wounds with each other.
Results
In vivo results demonstrate that triple EV administration significantly attenuates inflammation and improves angiogenesis and collagen deposition in the injured area (p < 0.05).
Conclusion
This study suggests that multiple injections of EVs promotes wound closure and decreases scar formation mainly by maintaining adequate concentration in the wounded area.
A Randomized Phase II Trial of Nab-paclitaxel with or without Mifepristone for Advanced Triple-Negative Breast Cancer
Authors: Chen Nan , Matossian Margarite , Saha Poornima , Rampurwala Murtuza , Kamaraju Salaija , Hahn Olwen , Howard Frederick M , Fleming Gini F , Freeman Jincong Q , Karrison Theodore , Conzen Suzanne , Nanda Rita , Stringer-Reasor Erica M
Published: October 2024

Purpose
Glucocorticoid receptor (GR) activity may mediate chemoresistance in advanced triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). Preclinical studies demonstrate that GR antagonism can augment the effect of taxanes in TNBC models. We hypothesized that pretreatment with mifepristone, a potent GR antagonist, would enhance nab-paclitaxel efficacy in advanced TNBC.
Methods
This trial was terminated early due to poor accrual. 29 of 64 planned patients were enrolled. Patients were randomized to receive nab-paclitaxel with or without mifepristone; oral mifepristone 300 mg was administered the day prior and day of each dose of nab-paclitaxel. The primary endpoint was progression free survival (PFS); secondary/exploratory endpoints included response rate and correlation of response with GR expression.
Results
The addition of mifepristone to nab-paclitaxel did not improve PFS (3.0m vs 3.0m, p = 0.687) or overall response rate (23% vs 31.5%) compared to nab-paclitaxel alone. There was a trend towards improved overall survival in the combination group, primarily driven by one long-term responder. Increased rates of grade 3 neutropenia (46% vs 7%) and febrile neutropenia were observed in the combination arm, while other toxicities were similar in both groups. Increased GR expression was not correlated with clinical response in the combination arm.
Conclusions
While there were responders to the combination, the study was underpowered to meet the primary endpoint. Higher rates of neutropenia were observed in the combination, but overall it was well-tolerated. Preclinical data in TNBC and clinical data in other malignancies support further investigation of GR modulators. Future studies should incorporate biomarkers to select patients who benefit from GR inhibition.
MRI Radiomics and Nutritional-Inflammatory Biomarkers: A Powerful Combination for Predicting Progression-Free Survival in Cervical Cancer Patients Undergoing Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Yan Qi , Wu Menghan , Zhang Jing , Yang Jiayang , Lv Guannan , Qu Baojun , Zhang Yanping , Yan Xia , Song Jianbo
Published: October 2024

Objective
This study aims to develop and validate a predictive model that integrates clinical features, MRI radiomics, and nutritional-inflammatory biomarkers to forecast progression-free survival (PFS) in cervical cancer (CC) patients undergoing concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT). The goal is to identify high-risk patients and guide personalized treatment.
Methods
We performed a retrospective analysis of 188 patients from two centers, divided into training (132) and validation (56) sets. Clinical data, systemic inflammatory markers, and immune-nutritional indices were collected. Radiomic features from three MRI sequences were extracted and selected for predictive value. We developed and evaluated five models incorporating clinical features, nutritional-inflammatory indicators, and radiomics using C-index. The best-performing model was used to create a nomogram, which was validated through ROC curves, calibration plots, and decision curve analysis (DCA).
Results
Model 5, which integrates clinical features, Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), Prognostic Nutritional Index (PNI), and MRI radiomics, showed the highest performance. It achieved a C-index of 0.833 (95% CI: 0.792–0.874) in the training set and 0.789 (95% CI: 0.679–0.899) in the validation set. The nomogram derived from Model 5 effectively stratified patients into risk groups, with AUCs of 0.833, 0.941, and 0.973 for 1-year, 3-year, and 5-year PFS in the training set, and 0.812, 0.940, and 0.944 in the validation set.
Conclusions
The integrated model combining clinical features, nutritional-inflammatory biomarkers, and radiomics offers a robust tool for predicting PFS in CC patients undergoing CCRT. The nomogram provides precise predictions, supporting its application in personalized patient management.
The effect of acceptance and commitment counseling on the coping self-efficacy of mothers with unplanned pregnancy: A controlled clinical trial
Authors: Rabiee Masoumeh , Saed Omid , Nikjoo Roya , Ahmadnia Elahe
Published: October 2024

Background
Unplanned pregnancies present a significant challenge in reproductive health due to their unexpected nature, leading to adverse consequences for women, children, families, and society. Recognizing the importance of maternal self-efficacy in managing unplanned pregnancies, this study aimed to determine the impact of acceptance and commitment-based counseling on coping self-efficacy among mothers facing unplanned pregnancies.
Methods
This clinical trial involved 108 mothers with unplanned pregnancies in Ardabil city, located in northwest Iran. Participants were selected using convenience sampling, and block random allocation placed individuals into intervention and control groups. Data were collected through demographic and midwifery information forms, the London Measure of Unplanned Pregnancy (LMUP), Chesney’s Coping Self-Efficacy Scale (CES) and the Ghodratnama Social-Economic Questionnaire. The statistical analysis utilized SPSS version 16 and included T-Test, ANOVA, and repeated measures tests.
Results
The mean age of the intervention and control groups was 30.87 ± 6.32 and 29.11 ± 5.57, respectively. Most women in both groups (32.3%) were pregnant for the second time. The mean pregnancy age in the intervention and control groups was 13.22 ± 3.21 and 11.10 ± 4.16, respectively. Coping self-efficacy mean scores in the intervention group changed from 107.55 ± 35.84 before the intervention to 125.36 ± 34.78 two months after. In the control group, it changed from 98.6 ± 31.86 to 108.12 ± 22.38. There was no statistically significant difference in coping self-efficacy between the two study groups before the intervention. However, immediately after the intervention (p < 0.001) and two months later (p = 0.003), a significant difference was observed, demonstrating the effectiveness of acceptance and commitment-based counseling on coping self-efficacy among mothers with unplanned pregnancies.
Conclusion
Given the impact of acceptance and commitment-based counseling on coping self-efficacy among mothers with unplanned pregnancies, it is recommended to incorporate this counseling intervention into maternal care programs for unplanned pregnancies.
Trial registration
This study, identified as code A-11-38-10 at Zanjan University of Medical Sciences, was registered with the Iranian Clinical Trial Center under the code IRCT20151211025477N7 on August 28, 2023.
Value of Clinical Review for AI-Guided Deep Vein Thrombosis Diagnosis with Ultrasound Imaging by Non-expert Operators
Authors: Speranza Giancarlo , Mischkewitz Sven , Al-Noor Fouad , Kainz Bernhard
Published: October 2024

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) carries high morbidity, mortality, and costs globally. Point of care ultrasound (POCUS) image acquisition by non-ultrasound-trained providers, supported by an AI-based guidance and remote image review system, is believed to improve the timeliness and cost-effectiveness of diagnosis. We examine a database of 381 patients with suspected DVT who underwent an AI-guided ultrasound scan by a non-ultrasound-trained nurse and an expert sonographer-performed compression ultrasound scan. Each AI-guided scan was reviewed remotely by blinded radiologists or blinded independent POCUS-certified American Emergency Medicine (EM) physicians. Remote reviewer and standard scan diagnoses were compared. The primary endpoint is AI-guidance system sensitivity with clinician review, secondary endpoints include specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, image quality, inter-observer image quality and vein compressibility agreement. Data was analysed through the bootstrapping method, bootstrapping with a second reader for each scan, and a majority voting system. Eighty percent (n = 304) of scans were of sufficient diagnostic quality. Radiologist reviewer sensitivity ranged from 90%-95%, specificity from 74%-84%, NPV from 98%-99%, PPV from 30%-42%, and potential expert-led ultrasound scans avoided from 39%-50%. Inter-observer agreement for image quality was 0.15 and for compressibility 0.61. EM reviewer sensitivity ranged from 95%-98%, specificity from 97%-100%, NPV was 99%, PPV from 81%-100%, and potential expert-led ultrasound scans avoided from 29%-38%. Inter-observer agreement for image quality was 0.59 and for compressibility 0.67. Diagnosing lower extremity DVT through AI-guided image acquisition with clinician review is feasible. Performance is influenced by reviewer expertise. We find potential positive impacts on health economics, including safely avoiding expert-led ultrasound scans.
Abundance of root clusters in Kingia australis (Dasypogonaceae) highlights widespread non-symbiotic adaptations to nutrient-impoverished soils
Authors: Lamont Byron , Weinert Andrew , Duff Helen
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims: Recent erosion of a riverbank in southwestern Australia exposed previously unrecorded root clusters produced by the grasstree, Kingia australis (Dasypogonaceae). Our aim was to provide descriptions of these structures compared with currently known specialized roots.
Methods: Excavation of root clusters, quantification of their distribution/morphology, and histology.
Results: There were 260 clusters per m3 of soil to a depth of 1.6 m and concentrated at 50-70 cm. They averaged 8.4 x 5.5 cm in length x width with 5360 roots/rootlets per L of rhizosphere soil. Clusters comprised a parent lateral (with cortical aerenchyma), secondary parent roots 50 x 3 mm in length x width, and rootlets 10 x 1 mm. Clusters are perennial, new roots sometimes emerging from the previous winter-growing-season’ cluster. We refer to these novel structures as staghorn-coralloid roots. Total root length reached 70 m per L of soil. The epidermal surface averaged 1600 cm2 per L of soil. All roots are covered in root hairs, with parent lateral hairs 250 µm long to 700 µm for rootlets. They must push through a ±150-µm thick mucigel layer to reach the soil. Adding root hairs increased the surface area exposed to the rhizosphere by 4.4 times for a mere 3.3% increase in root volume. Endogenous fungal hyphae or (cyano)bacteria were not evident.
Conclusion: These root clusters link with proteoid, dauciform and capillaroid roots via their prolific production of extremely hairy rootlets with abundant mucigel, implying that they are functionally matched, but are otherwise morphologically and anatomically distinct.
Region‐specific brain decellularized scaffolds can recover cell viability in an oxygen-glucose deprivation model
Authors: Reginensi Diego , Ortiz Didio , Castillo Solangel , Burillo Andrea , Denis Bernardino , Khoury Nathalie , Xu Jing , Escobar Anthony A. Hurtado , Dave Kunjan R. , Perez-Pinzon Miguel A. , Gittens Rolando A.
Published: October 2024

Brain decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) can be an attractive scaffold capable of mimicking the native ecosystem of the central nervous system tissue. In this study, we studied the in vitro response of neural lineage cells exposed to region-specific brain decellularized ECM scaffolds from three distinct neuroanatomical sections: cortex, cerebellum and remaining areas. First, the evaluation of each brain subregion was performed with the isotropic fractionator method to understand the cellular composition of the different cerebral areas. Second, each of the cerebral subregions was subjected to the decellularization process and their respective characterization using molecular, histological, and ultrastructural techniques. Third, the presence of neurotrophic factors in the decellularized brain scaffold was analyzed. Finally, we studied the region-specific brain decellularized ECM as a mimetic platform for the maturation of PC12 cells and for the recovery of cell viability in an oxygen-glucose deprivation model. Our results show that region-specific brain decellularized ECM can serve as a biomimetic scaffold capable of promoting the growth of neural lineage cells and, in addition, it possesses a combination of structural and biochemical signals (e.g., neurotrophic factors) that are capable of inducing cell phenotypic changes that can promote cell recovery and viability in a stroke/ischemia model in vitro.
Can flower forms be indicators of pollen diversity and possible gametophytic selection in marigold breeding programs?
Authors: Dedhia Labdhi , P Veeresh , Samuel Duleep , R Venugopalan , P Tejaswini
Published: October 2024

Pollen shape has been utilized as a taxonomic attribute since it is thought to be the most constant trait within a plant species. The African marigold (Tagetes erecta L.) has substantial variability within the species due to its wider adaptability to various agroclimatic conditions; thus, from a palynological perspective, this species is interesting for studying the variation in its pollen grains. As a commercial flower crop, the breeding programme involves multiple flower forms within the species; hence, the objective of this study was twofold: first, to characterize the typical pollen grain features of marigold and second, to assess the potential variation in pollen morphology in different flower forms across marigold genotypes for possible gametophytic selection in breeding programmes. Nine African marigold plant genotypes with six different flower forms were imaged using a scanned electron microscope to study the characteristic features of the pollen grains. The pollen grains of Tagetes erecta were found to be radially symmetrical, isopolar monads that were oblate spheroidal and suboblate in shape with tricolpi apertures and with echinate erections on the pollen wall. Significant differences were recorded between the genotypes and flower forms for all the pollen morphological features studied. The variability observed among the pollen grain populations within the genotypes for certain morphometric traits also suggested the potential of using gametophytic selection in marigold breeding programs. Although it is important to establish pollen traits for commercial hybridization programs, little information is available, and to our knowledge, this is the first report on characteristic pollen grain features in African marigolds.
The mec-2e isoform with a large C-terminal completely rescues the touch sensation defect of C. elegans
Authors: Keszthelyi Tália Magdolna , Légrádi Regina , Pálya Dóra , Köles Tímea , Regős Ágnes , Tory Kálmán
Published: October 2024

Human podocin and C. elegans MEC-2 belong to the stomatin protein superfamily. They share 49% identity and 91% similarity both in the evolutionary conserved PHB domain (123-284aa) and in the oligomerization region (273-351aa). Amino acid substitutions in these conserved regions can modify the podocin oligomerization and thus the pathogenicity of trans-associated NPHS2 variants, known as interallelic interactions. The MEC-2A isoform was formerly considered to be the canonical isoform and used to evaluate the effect of pathogenic podocin variants. The mec-2 mutant worms are mechanosensation deficient, and, as recently described, also chemosensation deficient. To study the interallelic interactions of podocin in vivo, we aimed to rescue the phenotype of the mec-2 mutant worm by reexpressing podocin (383 aa). However, we found no chemotaxis deficiency by none of four odorants in neither a null (Tu37), nor in a missense mutant (CB75) strain. No mechanosensation rescue was achieved by MEC-2A, but with a 17,5kb genomic region and the MEC-2E isoform (1239 aa) with a large C-terminal. Truncating the last third of the large C-terminal abolished its rescue effect. In conclusion, the function of MEC-2 in mechanosensation requires a large C-terminal encoded by the MEC-2E isoform. Accordingly, human podocin cannot rescue the phenotype of mec-2 mutants.
Study on the Temporal and Spatial Migration Patterns of Blast Smoke in the Mining Area and Optimization of Effective Range
Authors: Chen Li , Tian Yuan , Zhang Nana , Xu Ziyi , Li Zhisheng
Published: October 2024

To prevent asphyxiation accidents caused by toxic and harmful gases in underground metallic and non-metallic mining operations, this study employs Fluent numerical simulation to investigate the steady-state airflow and diffusion patterns of toxic gases under various effective ranges, both with and without mid-level tunnels. A total of five different effective ranges of equal length are selected within the range of interest to determine the optimal effective range. The results indicate that, regardless of the consideration of mid-level tunnels, the airflow performance deteriorates as the effective range increases in the steady-state airflow field. In the transient concentration field, regardless of whether mid-level tunnels are considered, the average respiratory height of 1.5 m shows that the time required for CO concentration to drop below 0.0024% decreases as the effective range decreases, both at the cross-section and at monitoring points. By integrating the findings from the steady-state airflow and transient concentration fields, the minimum effective range is ultimately determined to be the optimal effective range.
ChatGPT or the Language Genie: Perspectives and Lived Experiences of Students in Tunisia
Authors: Abdeljaoued Marii
Published: October 2024

Background
Since its inception in 2022, ChatGPT has been hailed as a revolutionary tool, particularly among students who view it as a solution to various academic queries and tasks. Its instant feedback on numerous subjects has eased academic burdens and enhanced learning experiences. The tool has rapidly gained popularity as it offers personalized assistance and fosters independent learning among students worldwide. This study sets out to assess students' perceptions and attitudes towards using ChatGPT in their learning and report on their lived experiences with the tool. Specifically, this research aims to identify the potential benefits and risks of using ChatGPT in higher education settings, explore students' attitudes towards the tool, and assess the level of acceptance of ChatGPT and its implications for learning and conducting research.
Methods
A survey of 686 students gathered quantitative and qualitative data on their perceptions and experiences with ChatGPT, following the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM). To gain more in-depth insights, the survey included a final open-ended question: "Can you share a specific experience where ChatGPT was particularly helpful or challenging for you in finding information or answering questions?" Students’ responses to this question produced 24,000 words of raw text in Arabic, English, and French. This corpus was then subjected to thematic content analysis.
Results
Findings reveal ChatGPT's popularity among students for its interactive and personalized learning capabilities. While students expressed a strong intention to use and recommend ChatGPT, they also approached it cautiously, noting concerns about privacy, reduced critical thinking skills, and academic integrity. Quantitative data paints a compelling picture of ChatGPT's positive reception among students in Tunisia, with many expressing enjoyment and interest in the tool. ChatGPT offers a pleasurable and engaging experience, fostering active participation. Qualitative analysis reveals a nuanced relationship, with students recognizing both the benefits and limitations of ChatGPT, often framing their experiences in a "Yes... But..." manner.
Comparison of accumulation rates of beta-amyloid tracers and their relationship with cognitive changes
Authors: Cho Soo Hyun , Kang Heekyoung , Ham Hongki , Moon SeungHwan , Jang Hyemin , Yun Jihwan , Lee Eun Hye , Shin Daeun , Yim Sohyun , Kim Byeong Chae , Kim Hee Jin , Na Duk L. , Seo Sang Won , Kim Jun Pyo
Published: October 2024

We aimed to compare amyloid-β (Aβ) accumulation rates between different tracers and investigate whether the relationship between changes in Aβ uptake and cognitive decline varies depending on tracer type. Two cohorts were analyzed: (1) a head-to-head longitudinal cohort using [18F]florbetaben (FBB) and [18F]flutemetamol (FMM) tracers (n = 13), and (2) separate longitudinal cohorts for each tracer (n = 174 for both FMM and FBB), matched by propensity score. Aβ uptake was measured using regional direct comparison of Centiloid (rdcCL) values. In the head-to-head cohort, subtracting changes in FMM rdcCL from FBB rdcCL yielded median values above zero in all regions except the cingulate. In the individual tracer cohorts, FBB rdcCL showed faster accumulation than FMM rdcCL in all cortical regions except the striatum (β [SE] = -2.49 to -1.56 [0.47 to 0.54], p < 0.001). Mini-Mental State Examination changes were associated with annualized FMM rdcCL changes in the temporal cortex (p = 0.02) and striatum (p = 0.01); however, no such differences were found in the FBB cohort. Our findings suggest that longitudinal Aβ positron emission tomography studies should consider the specific characteristics of tracers depending on the context of use.
Blooming Longer: Tailoring Preservative Concentration and Silicon to Extend the Vase Life of Peony (Paeonia lactiflora Pall.)
Authors: zheng huimin , Liu Yinan , Bai Shenfei , Jia Xiaokai , Tian Yifan , Shi Sho , Ma Jingyan , Yue Yutong , Wu Yujing , Ji Jing , Tian Shilin , Tang Zheyuan , Hao Hailei
Published: October 2024

The market for fresh-cut peony flowers is booming globally, but their short vase life limits their commercial value. This study evaluated the effects of silicon and commercial preservatives on the postharvest performance of best-selling Paeonia lactiflora varieties, including the challenging 'Bartzella' variety that wilts the day after flowering. It was found that a diluted freshness preservative combined with silicon significantly enhanced the vase life and bloom quality of the peonies. A four-fold dilution of the recommended concentration of commercial freshness preservative was suggested. Additionally, there is a variety-specific response to the preservative; diluted Chrysal + Si treatment significantly increased flower size and prolonged the optimal viewing period for 'Monsieur Jules Elie' and 'Kelway's Glorious' varieties, while diluted Oasis + Si treatment was preferred for 'Sarah Bernhardt' and 'Bartzella' varieties.
scPlantFormer: A Lightweight Foundation Model for Plant Single-Cell Omics Analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiujun , Xu Jing , Chen Di , Chen Luo-Nan
Published: October 2024

Foundation models have revolutionized single-cell omics data analysis and the increasing adoption of single-cell technologies in plant biology highlights the pressing need for efficient analytical tools. Developing a high-performance and lightweight foundation model for plant science is complex yet necessary. Inspired by the fact that the gene expression vector of cells contain less information-dense than the sentence, we offer a new perspective on pretraining single-cell omics foundation models and develop scPlantFormer, a model pretrained on one million Arabidopsis thaliana scRNA-seq data. Systematic benchmarking reveals that scPlantFormer excels in plant scRNA-seq analysis. Besides, two workflows are proposed to refine cell-type identification and significantly enhance the accuracy of inter-dataset cell-type annotation. scPlantFormer effectively integrates scRNA-seq data across species, identifying conserved cell types validated by the literature and uncovering novel ones. Additionally, it constructs a comprehensive Arabidopsis thaliana atlas with approximately 400,000 cells, positioning scPlantFormer as a powerful tool for plant single-cell omics.
Increasing drying changes the relationship of biodiversity and community assembly with ecosystem multifunctionality in temporary streams
Authors: Li Chaoran , Hou Jun , Kong Ming , Yao Yu , Adyel Tanveer , Wu Jun , You Guoxiang , Yu Yue , Liu Songqi , Yang Zijun , Miao Lingzhan
Published: October 2024

Increased drought in rivers under the impact of global climate change is leading to biodiversity loss. However, it is not clear whether biodiversity loss affects river multifunctionality. In this study, we investigated the changes in community structure and ecological functions of biofilm communities in an artificially simulated stream after different drought durations.A drought period of about 60 days is a critical time point for changes in the structure and functions of river ecosystems under drought stress. Therefore, different drought durations were divided into short-term drought (0 ~ 20 d) and long-term drought (60 ~ 130 d) to analyse the maintenance mechanism of benthic community structure in terms of multifunctionality. In summary, biodiversity showed a significant dominant relationship in maintaining community stability after short-term drought, while the dominant relationship got uncoupled after long-term drought. For the maintenance of multifunctionality in benthic ecosystems, community assembly has been dominant with drought intensification, rather than biodiversity as traditionally perceived. This study reveals the importance of community assembly in maintaining multifunctionality in intermittent river and ephemeral stream ecosystems, extending theoretical knowledge of B-EMf relationships in extreme environments.
Efficient active hydrogen delivery for drug-free radiation enteritis therapy
Authors: Liu Luntao , Yin Xianggui , Bi Changfen , Chen Yuanfang , Hu Xueyin , Shi Guangyou , Li Shuqin , Zhang Wen , Ma Longbo , Fan Saijun
Published: October 2024

Radiation enteritis affects over 90% of patients undergoing pelvic or abdominal radiotherapy, primarily due to radiation-induced production of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS). Active hydrogens possess broad-spectrum RONS scavenging ability, demonstrating great potential in radioprotection. However, owing to the intestinal mucus barrier and short lifespan of active hydrogens, delivering active hydrogens to the injury site has been significantly challenging. Herein, drinkable, simple-structured, self-thermophoresis-powered sodium alginate-coated hydrogenated molybdenum oxide nanomachines with high capacity of active hydrogens (HxMoO3@SAs) were developed, featuring excellent directional motility driven by near-infrared (NIR) light and the ability to spontaneously and sustainably release of active hydrogens. Further, HxMoO3@SAs were innovatively applied in treating acute radiation enteritis. Their unique directional motion ability enables HxMoO3@SAs to successfully overcome the mucus barrier and prolong retention in the intestine, allowing the released active hydrogens to reach hard-to-reach injury sites, thereby achieving precise and efficient enteritis therapy. Surprisingly, in addition to highly efficient scavenging of cytotoxic RONS, the released hydrogen can also induce the polarization of macrophages into an anti-inflammatory phenotype, increase goblet cell abundance, and modulate the intestinal microbiota, leading to the repair of radiation-induced intestinal damage. Overall, this hydrogen-based, drug-free treatment strategy, coupled with precise delivery capability, presented superior efficacy in treating radiation enteritis.
Green Astaxanthin Extraction: Microwave and Ultrasound Pretreatment
Authors: Feizi Parisa , Maghsoudlou Yahya , Tabarestani Hoda Shahiri , Jafari Seyed Mahdi , Bahri Amir houshang
Published: October 2024

In this study, ultrasonic and microwave extraction were performed to recover astaxanthin from F. merguiensis shrimp and P. maeoticus Gammarus samples, using three solvents, including organic solvent, vegetable oil, and ionic microemulsion. Microemulsions were evaluated in terms of density, conductivity, and particle size. The microemulsion exhibited a density of 0.9715 g/cm3, a conductivity of 312 µSiemens, and an average particle size of 15.8 nm. The results demonstrated that in both samples, the ionic microemulsion solvent showed superior performance in astaxanthin extraction and F. merguiensis shrimp produced more total carotenoid compared to the other sample, In both methods, the recovery efficiency of astaxanthin increased with an increasing amount of solvent and with an increase in power and extraction time, it increased at first, but then a slight decrease was observed. Ultrasonic extraction preserved the structure and antioxidant properties of astaxanthin better, but the microwave method showed a higher extraction efficiency.
The Response of Tropical Cyclone Hazard to Natural and Forced Warming Patterns
Authors: Lin Jonathan , Lee Chia-Ying , Camargo Suzana , Sobel Adam , Zhuo Jing-Yi
Published: October 2024

This study quantifies the influence of the pattern of sea surface temperature change in the tropical Pacific on tropical cyclone hazard. After applying a tropical cyclone downscaling model to downscale a climate model with an ''El Niño-like" forced response, it is found that the warming pattern induces an ''El Niño-like" change to tropical cyclone hazard. The magnitude of hazard change owing to this warming pattern is estimated to be around the same order of magnitude as that owing to the forced response that does not project onto the same warming pattern. Given the uncertainty around the future pattern of Pacific warming, a storyline with a ''La Niña-like" warming pattern, of similar magnitude to the observations, is created. In this scenario, near-term tropical cyclone hazard over coastal Asia and the Atlantic basin increases significantly, highlighting the sensitivity of local tropical cyclone hazard to the pattern of warming.
A Comparative Case Study of Pituitary Macroadenoma Treatment: No Intervention, Medication, Nutrition, and Endoscopic Transsphenoidal Surgery
Authors: Vaziri Ava Yektaeian , Mohamadi Hassan Reza
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a detailed case report of a 19-year-old woman diagnosed with hyperprolactinemia, followed over a six-year period until her full recovery at age 25. The patient’s initial complaint of ineffective laser hair removal led to the discovery of elevated prolactin levels, followed by a diagnosis of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Despite undergoing multiple pharmacological treatments, including Bromocriptine and Cabergoline, the patient developed secondary amenorrhea and was diagnosed with a treatment-resistant pituitary macroadenoma. Dietary modifications and herbal supplements provided only temporary relief. Ultimately, surgical intervention via endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery successfully resolved the patient’s condition, with normalized prolactin levels and the resolution of amenorrhea. This case highlights the challenges of managing treatment-resistant hyperprolactinemia and underscores the importance of adaptable treatment plans and the potential necessity of surgery.
Phytochemical composition and antibacterial activity of Ocotea usambarensis Engl. and Secamone africana (Oliv.) Bullock, medicinal plants used in Bushenyi district, Uganda
Authors: Onekalith Stephen , Begumisa Godfrey Magyezi , Nakintu Justine
Published: October 2024

Background
Ocotea usambarensis, lately reclassified as Kuloa usambarensis (Engl.) Trofimov & Rohwer, and Secamone africana are extensively utilized medicinal plants in Bushenyi district, southwestern Uganda. These plants traditionally complement the conventional drugs in the treatment of various ailments including malaria, cough, measles, anemia, syphilis, gonorrhea, and diarrhea. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the phytochemical content and antibacterial activity of extracts from the two plants against common pathogenic bacteria; Escherichia coli, Streptococcus pneumoniae and Staphylococcus aureus.
Methods
The stem bark and leaves of the two medicinal plants were harvested from Kalinzu Forest Reserve and subsequently air dried at ambient temperature. Phytochemical extraction was performed using cold maceration, decoction, and infusion procedures with ethanol, ethyl acetate, and water respectively serving as solvents. The extracts from the stem bark and leaves of O. usambarensis and leaves of S. africana were subjected to qualitative and quantitative phytochemical profiling following standard analytical protocols. The antibacterial properties of the plant extracts against E. coli, S. pneumoniae and S. aureus were assessed basing on the zones of inhibition, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) and total antibacterial activity. ANOVA and Tukey’s post hoc multiple comparison tests were used to determine statistical differences among zones of inhibition of different extract concentrations (7.812-100mg/ml).
Results
The extracts from the two plants contained a diverse spectrum of phytochemical components, including flavonoids, phenols, saponins, and tannins among others. Extracts from both plants demonstrated inhibitory effects on the growth of E. coli, S. aureus, and S. pneumoniae. All extracts were bactericidal at a concentration of 500mg/ml although, a few extracts had bactericidal concentrations as low as 31.25mg/ml.
Conclusion
The diversity of phytochemicals and in vitro antibacterial activity results against E. coli, S. aureus and S. pneumonia of the extracts of O. usambarensis and S. africana, validate the usage of the two plants in herbal remedies.
Comparative Assessment of sEV Biogenesis Regulator Proteins in MSCs and HeLa Cells for Elucidating Novel Therapeutic Strategies
Authors: Sharma Yashvi , Mohanty Sujata
Published: October 2024

In the intricate landscape of cellular communication, small extracellular vesicles (sEV) originating from endosomes play crucial roles as mediators and have garnered significant attention in theranostics. Our understanding of sEV biogenesis largely stems from studies on cancer cells, which are vital for diagnostics. However, in therapeutics, where mesenchymal stem cell (MSC)-derived sEV are emerging as investigational new drugs, their biogenesis pathways remain largely unexplored. This article explores the parallel narratives of sEV biogenesis in cancer cells and stem cells, specifically using HeLa cells and MSCs as model cell lines. This study investigated the roles of key proteins—HRS, STAM, TSG101, and ALIX—as identified in HeLa cells, in the context of MSC-sEV biogenesis. While these proteins show similarities across cell types, a discernible difference arises in their primary functions in regulating sEV biogenesis. The critical role of ALIX in MSC sEV biogenesis, in particular, underscores its potential as a target for modulating sEV yield in regenerative therapies. Through this comparative analysis, we identified shared molecular signatures, offering insights to guide therapeutic interventions and unlock the regenerative potential of stem cells.
Navigating the Post-Pandemic Era: Assessing Brand Responsibility and Public Response to Graphic Signage in Shopping Centers
Authors: Ariprahara Gema
Published: October 2024

In the period following the outbreak of the pandemic, there has been notable transformation in individual behaviours and routines. Despite the persistent presence of COVID, shopping centers and malls have eased regulations for visitors in the post-pandemic phase. This study explores the use of graphic signage as a communication tool, particularly in the form of hazard signage, to assess how brand responsibility and the public respond on the post-pandemic period. This study uses a descriptive quantitative method. Through a purposive sample of 100 respondents representing shopping center visitors in Indonesia, this research aims to shed light on brand awareness, responsibility, and the effectiveness of graphic signage in ensuring public compliance with safety measures. The study's results reveal a decline in both brand responsibility and public awareness of health protocols. Consequently, graphic signage flooring emerges as a vital tool in raising visitor awareness through captivating visuals and straightforward messaging, subtly influencing their behaviour. This study provides valuable insights into the role of visual communication in shaping public behaviour and how shopping centers can maintain a conducive environment for public health in the post-pandemic era.