bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and Validation of Immune Implication of R-Spondin 1 and an R-Spondin 1-Related Prognostic Signature in Esophagus Cancer
Authors: Lin Yuansheng , Lou Xinqi , Li Shengjun , Cai Wei , Che Tuanjie
Published: May 2024

R-spondin 1 (RSPO1), which encodes a secretory-activating protein, is a promising therapeutic target for various tumors. The aim of this study was to establish a robust RSPO1-related signature specific to esophageal cancer (ESCA). Our comprehensive study involved meticulous analysis of RSPO1 expression in ESCA tissues and validation across ESCA cell lines and clinical samples using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and GTEx databases. Using TCGA-ESCA dataset, we employed single-sample gene set enrichment analysis (ssGSEA) to elucidate the complex interaction between RSPO1 expression and the abundance of 22 specific immune cell types infiltrating ESCA. The biological significance of RSPO1 was further elucidated using KEGG, GO, and GSEA, demonstrating its relevance to pivotal tumor and immune pathways. This study culminated in the construction of prognostic nomograms enriched by calibration curves, facilitating the projection of individual survival probabilities at intervals of one, three, and five years. A substantial decrease in RSPO1 expression was observed within ESCA tissues and cell lines compared to their normal esophageal counterparts, and a significant decrease in the proportion of activated dendritic cells was evident within ESCA, accompanied by an augmented presence of macrophages and naive B cells relative to normal tissue. GSEA and KEGG analyses showed that RSPO1 was associated with tumor and immune pathways. Additionally, an independent prognostic risk score based on the RSPO1-related gene signature was developed and validated for patients with ESCA. Finally, RT-qPCR and western blotting were performed to confirm RSPO1 expression in normal and ESCA cell lines and tissue samples. In summary, our investigation underscores the pivotal role of RSPO1 in orchestrating tumor immunity and proposes RSPO1 as a prospective target for immunotherapeutic interventions in ESCA. Furthermore, the intricate profile of the two RSPO1-related genes has emerged as a promising predictive biomarker with notable potential for application in ESCA.
Predicting Therapeutic Intervention for Patients with Quiescent Crohn’s Disease Using the Small Bowel Capsule Endoscopy Score
Authors: Omori Teppei , Koroku Miki , Murasugi Shun , Ito Ayumi , Yonezawa Maria , Nakamura Shinichi , Tokushige Katsutoshi
Published: May 2024

Introduction: Small bowel (SB) capsule endoscopy (SBCE) is a sensitive modality for screening the entire SB of patients with Crohn’s disease (CD); however, the prognostic impact of the results is unclear. We evaluated the ability of the SBCE score to predict therapeutic intervention for patients with CD and SB lesions without clinical symptoms as well as negative C-reactive protein (CRP) levels. Methods: Fifty-six patients who underwent a patency evaluation and had a CD activity index (CDAI) score <150 mg/dL and CRP level <0.5 mg/dL were included. Twenty-one and 35 patients had CD classified as Montreal classifications L1 and L3, respectively. The initial SBCE scores were subsequently grouped according to the presence or absence of intervention based on cutoff values. We examined whether the scores could predict the need for therapeutic intervention at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years. The CD activity in capsule endoscopy (CDACE) score was used as the SBCE score. Results: The median observation period was 1,326 days. Twenty-one patients received therapeutic intervention. There were significant differences between patients with and without treatment intervention according to the CDACE cutoff value of 420 at 1 year, 2 years, and 5 years. Significant differences between patients with Montreal classification L1 with and without intervention were observed at 1 year and 2 years. The CDACE score was moderately and strongly correlated with the Lewis score and capsule endoscopy CDAI score, respectively (Spearman rank correlation coefficient: ρ = 0.6462 and ρ = 0.9199, respectively; p < 0.0001). Conclusion: A CDACE score ≥420 is predictive of intervention after 1 year for patients with CD, a CDAI score <150, and a CRP level <0.5 mg/dL. A larger study with a prospective design is necessary to validate our findings.
Ideação suicida, uso de substâncias psicoativas e sofrimento mental entre a população em situação de rua de um município brasileiro
Authors: Fernandes Márcia Astrês , Pillon Sandra Cristina , Reis Máyra Dayananda Cunha , Barbosa Nanielle Silva , Ibiapina João Paulo Barros , Costa Ana Paula Cardoso
Published: May 2024

Objective: to characterize the presence of suicidal ideation, use of psychoactive substances and mental distress among homeless people. Methodology: a cross sectional study carried out with 127 participants. Data were collected through the application of a questionnaire containing sociodemographic data, economic information related to living and health conditions and the Self-Reporting Questionnaire; the Alcohol, Smoking and Substance Involvement Screening Test; and the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test. Data analysis was carried out descriptively. Results: 37% of the sample reported suicidal ideation, with predominance of the female gender (52.6%), adults (from 30 to 39 years old) (36.3%), non-white skin color (35.2%), low schooling level (39.7%), without a partner (36.4%) and earning no income (36.7%). Problematic consumption of alcohol, tobacco, marijuana and cocaine was observed among the participants with suicidal ideation. More than half of the sample that presented suicidal ideation was experiencing mental distress. Conclusion: suicidal ideation was identified in a significant portion of the sample. Problematic use of psychoactive substances and mental distress were also prevalent in those with suicidal ideation.
Gaze, movement and gender in Ovid’s story of Atalanta and Hippomenes (Met. 10.560-707)
Authors: Archontogeorgi Artemis
Published: May 2024

In his Metamorphoses, Ovid created a world of alternating images that reflect both the significance of visual communication and the importance of movement. In these stories, vision and movement are closely related to the characters’ genders, the plot, and the final transformations. The relationship between Ovid’s literary text and a movie as a narrative, wherein the medium of storytelling differs, allows for the application of feminist film theory, especially that of Laura Mulvey. This approach can be applied to the Metamorphoses, Ovid’s piece of art that combines both text and image in an exemplary manner. Atalanta’s story, which will be discussed, is chosen precisely because it highlights the multidimensional function of vision and movement, combined with the gender of the observer and the object of the gaze, as well as the transformation process.
Diversity and abundance of mayflies (Insecta: Ephemeroptera) in Achenkovil River, southern Western Ghats, Kerala, India
Authors: S. Sujitha  , R. Sreejai  , C. Selvakumar
Published: May 2024

Freshwater insects like Ephemeroptera are more comprehensive and direct indicators of the biological impacts of pollution. During the study period (2018–2020), a total of 4,374 individuals of mayflies were collected and categorized under nine families, 27 genera, and 36 species. The family Leptophlebiidae was found dominant with 13 species. In the post-monsoon season, a higher species diversity of Ephemeroptera was noticed in the river’s upstream section with a Shannon-Wiener index value of H’ = 1.814. ANOVA revealed a significant difference (p <0.05) except for Ephemeridae (p >0.05). Protecting rivers requires a holistic approach and collaboration among stakeholders is essential for successful implementation.
Diversity and status of butterfly fauna at Kurukshetra University campus, Haryana, India
Authors: Vidisha Gupta  , Parmesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

Campuses of educational institutions in India serve as important reservoirs for different faunal components, including ecologically sensitive species like butterflies. To record the diversity, status, and occurrence of butterfly fauna in Kurukshetra University Campus, Haryana, a year-long survey was done from July 2021 to June 2022. A total of 710 individuals of butterflies belonging to 39 species, 32 genera, and five families were recorded. Nymphalidae represented the highest diversity with 13 species followed by Lycaenidae (11 species), Pieridae (10 species), Papilionidae (3 species), and Hesperiidae (2 species). The number of individuals encountered was maximum in family Pieridae (n = 158) while the minimum was in family Hesperiidae (n = 4). Species richness, abundance, and diversity differed significantly (P <0.05) across the different seasons. Species richness was recorded to be the highest in summer season (35 species) followed by monsoon, post monsoon, and winter. Among the recorded species, one species, i.e., Common Baron Euthelia aconthea is protected under Schedule II of the Wildlife (Protection) Amendment Act (2022). The findings of the present study support the importance of the higher educational institution campuses in providing valuable habitat and resources for butterflies.
Morphological characterization and distribution of four corticioid fungi species (Basidiomycota) in India
Authors: Joshi Tanya , Ram Ellu , Kaur Avneet , Singh AvneetPal
Published: May 2024

During the fungal forays conducted in Kullu district of Himachal Pradesh (India) several specimens of corticioid fungi were collected. Based on morphological characterization, these fungi have been identified as Aphanobasidium pseudotsugae, Cytidiella albida, C. nitidula, and Phlebia viridesalebrosum. These four species are new additions to the Indian mycobiota.
First photo evidence of Siberian Weasel Mustela sibirica Pallas, 1773 (Mammalia: Carnivora: Mustelidae) in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal
Authors: Chetri Madhu , Ale Purna Bahadur , Odden Morten
Published: May 2024

Five photographs of Siberian Weasel were captured by camera traps in two locations at an elevation of 2,840-3,200 m. in Gaurishankar Conservation Area. The species was identified based on its uniform yellowish-brown coat, the presence of a black mask that surrounded its eyes and the white chin, which are key characteristics that distinguishes it from other weasel species. This is the first confirmation of the presence of Siberian Weasel in Gaurishankar Conservation Area, Nepal. Based on present and previous confirmed records, a distribution map of the species has been updated for Nepal.
A preliminary checklist of Copepoda in the mangrove areas of Munroe Island, adjacent to Ashtamudi estuary, Kerala, India
Authors: M.S. Arya  , A. Biju  , Benchamin Dani
Published: May 2024

The present investigation was conducted to assess the species composition of Copepoda in Munroe Island from October 2020 to September 2022. As the information about the species composition of Copepoda is scarce in the mangrove habitats of the southern part of Kerala, their appraisal assumes greater significance. Copepod samples collected from the mangrove habitats of Munroe Island of Kerala (southern India) revealed 31 species belonging to 18 genera and 15 families. The order Calanoida was recognized as the most dominant taxa with 23 species, followed by Harpacticoida (five species) and Cyclopoida (three species). Among the 15 families encountered, Acartiidae, Centropagidae, Harpacticidae, Paracalanidae and Pseudodiaptomidae were the most diverse. Species such as Acartia bilobata, Paracalanus parvus, Pseudodiaptomus aurivillii, Pseudocalanus elongatus, Microsetella norvegica, and Oithona similis were found to be perennial. The investigation calls for intensive copepod surveys to reveal their ecology and diversity in the hitherto less-studied region in southern India.
Diversity of mosses (Bryophyta) in Pangi valley (Himachal Pradesh, India): an unexplored domain of northwestern Himalaya
Authors: Anshul Dhyani  , Shantanu Kumar , Sharma Rajender Kumar , Uniyal Prem Lal
Published: May 2024

Diversity of mosses of a unique and unexplored geographical location in Himalaya, the Pangi valley in Himachal Pradesh, India is investigated. A total of 49 moss species belonging to 21 families have been recorded, including Hedwigia emodica, the detail on the type specimen of which is uncertain and Encalypta vulgaris, a rare moss in the Himalaya. In addition, 13 moss species are new records for Himachal Pradesh. The dominant mosses of the surveyed area are Philonotis and Grimmia, where the latter is frequently found on basic, barren boulders in sunny positions. Among the recorded moss species, 35 are terrestrial, six aquatic, and eight epiphytes. The findings will be useful for forest policies and management of bryophytes conservation in areas which have extreme climatic conditions.
Tree architecture model of Sumatran Orangutan Pongo abelii Lesson, 1827 (Mammalia: Primates: Hominidae) nests at Soraya Research Station, Leuser Ecosystem, Indonesia
Authors: Lubis Anugrah Gilang Permana , Pasaribu Nursahara
Published: May 2024

The relationship between tree architectural models and the nesting behavior of the Sumatran Orangutan Pongo abelii Lesson, 1827 at the Soraya Research Station, Sumatra, Indonesia was determined by examining the preference for particular nest tree architectural models in relation to the frequency of nest occurrence. This investigation included the study of tree architectural models, tree types, nest profiles, vegetation, environmental factors, and geospatial data, collected within a 20 × 1,000 m (2 ha) observational area during a nest survey. A total of 59 orangutan nests were identified across 47 trees, categorized into 31 species and nine varied tree architectural models. Among these, the most prevalent models observed were Cook, Scarrone, and Attims, which exhibit features assumed to enhance orangutan nesting behaviors. Based on the Neu approach to nest qualities, the analytical test findings show a correlation between the preference ratings for nesting trees. Our results are expected to serve as a reference for selecting tree species in rehabilitation or habitat restoration programs and the development of separated forest block corridors as conservation efforts for orangutans.
First photographic record of Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus Linnaeus, 1758 from Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary, Assam, India
Authors: B. Piraisoodan  , Baglary Asish Immanuel , Mazumder Bibhuti
Published: May 2024

The Asiatic Brush-tailed Porcupine Atherurus macrourus is a nocturnal rodent species endemic to southern Asia and is considered rare in the northeastern part of India. During Phase IV Protocol of the National Tiger Conservation Authority 2022–23, camera traps were deployed in the study area and Atherurus macrourus was photo captured for the first time in Sonai Rupai Wildlife Sanctuary. This is the fourth photographic record for the state of Assam.
Sonerila konkanensis Resmi & Nampy (Melastomataceae) – an addition to the flora of Karnataka, India
Authors: Karadakatti Prashant , Kakkalameli Siddappa B.
Published: May 2024

The present communication reports the Sonerila konkanensis Resmi & Nampy (Melastomataceae) plant species is an addition to Karnataka flora, collected from the forest of Shivamogga District, Karnataka, India. It is an endemic species, described from Goa, and hitherto known only from the type locality.
An avifaunal checklist of the Bani Wildlife Sanctuary, Jammu & Kashmir, India
Authors: Iyaz Quyoom  , Bhat Bilal A. , Malik Wasim Sajad , Sheikh Taslima , Lone Arif Nabi
Published: May 2024

Protected areas are important for biodiversity conservation as they offer suitable habitats and protection from anthropogenic activities that harm wildlife. Establishing additional protected areas such as National parks, Wildlife sanctuaries, and Biosphere reserves reduces the threat to a species compared to non-protected areas. Before designating an area as protected, it’s crucial to identify which species are threatened and require urgent conservation efforts. The present study was undertaken in the Bani Wildlife Sanctuary, which falls in the western Himalayas, from March 2021 to February 2022 to compile an avifaunal checklist of the sanctuary. The checklist was created by conducting systematic field surveys and opportunistic bird sightings. A total of 135 bird species belonging to 45 families were recorded during the present study. The family Muscicapidae, represented by 17 species, dominates the list. Our study confirmed that the Bani Wildlife Sanctuary supports a rich avifaunal community with three species Western Tragopan Tragopan melanocephalus, Cheer Pheasant Catreus wallichi, and Bearded Vulture Gypus barbatus classified as Threatened in the global Red List by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN).
First report of Lutevula hortensia (Distant) (Heteroptera: Reduviidae: Emesinae) from India
Authors: Ismavel Vijay Anand , Ghate Hemant V.
Published: May 2024

An emesine bug, Lutevula hortensia (Distant), is recorded from India for the first time; type locality of this species is Sri Lanka and it was recently collected from Vellore, Tamil Nadu, in southern India. This is a rediscovery of the species after more than 50 years. Digital images of the species are presented along with comments on recent classification of Emesinae.
Strobilanthes khasyana (Acanthaceae): an addition to the flora of Nagaland, India
Authors: Pfüchüpe-ü Mero  , Eshuo Kazhuhrii , Puro Neizo
Published: May 2024

The present paper deals with the taxon Strobilanthes khasyana reported for the first time from the state of Nagaland, northeastern India. The taxon which was earlier reported to be endemic to the states of Meghalaya, Sikkim, and West Bengal has extended its distributional range to Nagaland state. The detailed morphological description and the photographs are provided for easy identification.
Peliosanthes yangchunensis (Asparagaceae), a new species from Guangdong, China
Authors: FENG HUI-ZHE , WU RANG-MIN , ZENG QIU-GEN , FAN QIANG , LIAO WEN-BO
Published: May 2024

A new species named Peliosanthes yangchunensis are described, which is endemic to Yangchun, western Guangdong, South China. The new species is closely related to P. macrostegia, but differs from the latter in that the flowers smaller, star-like and with strongly revolute, spreading and narrowly oblong tepals, style conical, ovary hexagonal in cross section, and fruit ovoid-globose, flower period September to October. Comparisons with other closely related species are also provided.
Two new species of the shieldtail snake genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 (Serpentes: Uropeltidae), from the Rakwana and the Knuckles Massifs of Sri Lanka
Authors: GOWER DAVID J. , SAMPAIO FILIPA L. , VIDANAPATHIRANA DULAN RANGA , WICKRAMASINGHE L. J. MENDIS
Published: May 2024

Two new species of the uropeltid snake genus Rhinophis Hemprich, 1820 are described from Sri Lanka. Rhinophis martin sp. nov. is described from 11 type specimens from the Rakwana Massif, and another 22 specimens from the same region are referred to this new species. Rhinophis dinarzardae sp. nov. is described from eight type specimens from the Knuckles Massif, and another 64 specimens from the Knuckles and adjacent hills are referred to this new species. Rhinophis martin sp. nov. has apparently not been reported previously under any scientific name, but is distinct in scalation, colour pattern and DNA. Rhinophis dinarzardae sp. nov. has long-been confused with the superficially similar R. philippinus, from which it differs by having more ventral scales, by occurring in the northern part of the Knuckles Massif and adjacent hills to the West rather than in the Central Highlands upland region (and possibly areas to the South and West) of Sri Lanka, and in DNA sequence data. The new descriptions take the inventory of currently recognised, named uropeltid species in Sri Lanka to 20, all members of the genus Rhinophis.
Cobitis feroniae, a new spined loach from southern Latium, Italy (Teleostei: Cobitidae)
Authors: NOVAGA RICCARDO , BELLUCCI DAVIDE , GEIGER MATTHIAS F. , FREYHOF JÖRG
Published: May 2024

Cobitis feroniae, new species, is described from central Italy. It is distinguished from C. zanandreai, its putatively closest relative, by having several, small, black dots below Z4; minute, black spot at the upper caudal peduncle, and the pigmentation in Z2 separated from pigmentation in Z1 anterior to the dorsal-fin origin. It is further distinguished from C. zanandreai by having 13 diagnostic nucleotide substitutions in the mtDNA COI barcode region, and a K2P nearest–neighbour distance of 2.9%.
A new species of Australotaenia (Cestoda: Proteocephalidae) from a hylid frog in Australia
Authors: CHAMBRIER ALAIN DE , SCHOLZ TOMÁŠ
Published: May 2024

A new species of the little-known genus Australotaenia de Chambrier & de Chambrier, 2010 is described from Ranoidea australis (Gray) (Anura: Hylidae), commonly known as the giant frog, northern snapping frog or round frog and which is a burrowing frog species native to Australia. Australotaenia hobbsi n. sp. is the fourth species of the genus, but the first taxon found in a burrowing frog and in northern Australia. The other species were found in Australian tree frogs (Litoria spp.) in southwestern and southeastern Australia, and in the homalopsid snake Enhydris enhydris (Schneider) in Cambodia. Australotaenia hobbsi n. sp. differs from its congeners (i) by the wider strobila (maximum body width 1,750 µm versus < 930 µm), scolex (570 µm versus < 390 µm) and suckers (diameter 215–230 µm versus < 140 µm); (ii) by the smaller relative size of the cirrus sac (12–15% of proglottid width versus 17–33%); (iii) by the absence of a vaginal sphincter (present in the other three species); (iv) different arrangement of the inner longitudinal musculature, which consists of a few individual muscle fibres (in contrast to the fibres grouped in bundles in other species). Australotaenia species and Pangasiocestus romani Scholz & de Chambrier, 2012 from the spot pangasius Pangasius lernaudii Boucourt, both of the subfamily Acanthotaeniinae, are unique among proteocephalids in terms of intermediate uterine development, with a high concentration of chromophilic cells around the tip of the lateral uterine diverticula.
Sonoprocesses for sustainable textile processing and nanofinishing: a review
Authors: Rashid Aqsa , Albargi Hasan B , Irfan Muhammad , Qadir Muhammad Bilal , Ahmed Awais , Ferri Ada , Jalalah Mohammed
Published: May 2024

The textile sector is widely acknowledged as one of the most environmentally damaging sectors globally, primarily due to its high consumption of water and energy, utilization of chemicals, and the discharge of waste water containing a complex mixture of hazardous substances. The incorporation of nanotechnology, particularly through wet processes involving nano finishes, while enhancing textile functionality, further exacerbates these environmental concerns. Consequently, the exploration and promotion of sustainable methodologies are imperative across all wet treatments in textile processing. Among the potential solutions, sonoprocesses stand out as a promising avenue for mitigating resource consumption, and supporting environmentally friendly synthesis and application of nanomaterials to textiles. Sonoprocesses offer the advantage of carrying processes at low temperature and pressure, and the use of aqueous media instead of organic solvents. This comprehensive review delves into the multifaceted applications of sonoprocesses within the textile realm, with a specific emphasis on the synthesis and application of nanomaterials to textiles. Discussing the diverse applications of sonoprocesses, this study will pave the way for the integration of these techniques within the textile industry, ultimately aiming for widespread adoption on a commercial scale. This will help in promoting sustainable practices and reducing the ecological footprint of the textile sector.
A fiber recognition framework based on multi-head attention mechanism
Authors: Xu Luoli , Li Fenying , Chang Shan
Published: May 2024

Convolutional neural networks have been extensively studied in textile fiber recognition. However, the down-sampling performed by the convolutional and pooling layers on the extracted features result in a significant loss of fine-grained fiber features. To address this issue, a multi-head attention framework for fiber recognition has been proposed. First, textile surface images are captured using optical magnifiers and smart devices such as smartphones. Second, fiber features and label embeddings are learned separately by multi-head self-attention. Finally, the label embeddings are used to query the presence of fiber types, and pool type-related features in the multi-head cross-attention module to classify fibers. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method performs exceptionally well on the textile surface image dataset, with a mean average precision accuracy improvement of 6% compared with the convolutional neural network-based fiber recognition method Cu-Net, and a 5% improvement compared with the fiber recognition method FiberCT combining convolutional neural networks and attention mechanisms. It is worth mentioning that the fiber images captured at 200× magnification in the collected dataset are most favorable for models to recognize fiber. The proposed method achieves a mean average precision fiber recognition accuracy of 80.2% on images at 200× magnification.
Serum C-reactive protein value on day 14 as a possible prognostic factor of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage
Authors: Ohgaki Fukutaro , Tatezuki Junya , Takemoto Yasunori , Miyazaki Kazuki , Mochimatsu Yasuhiko
Published: May 2024

Objective

Serum C-reactive protein (CRP), as a reflection of early brain injury at onset, is a prognostic factor in aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). However, in some severe cases, patients exhibit a good prognosis despite their elevated serum CRP level. Therefore, we examined the relationship between serum CRP transitions in the acute phase of aSAH and the prognosis.

Methods

We recruited 63 patients with aSAH and retrospectively analyzed the relationships between the serum CRP transitions during the acute phase and the prognosis, patient background, and clinical course.

Results

Serum CRP values on days 1, 3, and 14 were significantly lower in the good prognosis group than those in the poor prognosis group. Moreover, serum CRP values on days 1 and 14 significantly affected the prognosis in the multiple regression analysis.

Conclusions

A low serum CRP value on day 14, in addition to that on day 1 as reported previously, is associated with a good prognosis of aSAH. Furthermore, a good prognosis of aSAH is determined not only by absence of early brain injury at onset but also by appropriate management to obtain a low serum CRP value on day 14.
Prostatic stromal tumor of uncertain malignant potential: a case report and literature review
Authors: Zhu Tao , Yin Cong , Liufu Cen , Jiang Jiahao , Luo Junhua , Wang Yan
Published: May 2024

Prostatic stromal tumors, encompassing prostatic sarcoma and stromal tumors of uncertain malignant potential (STUMP), represent an exceedingly rare category of prostatic diseases, with a prevalence of less than 1%. We present a rare case involving a man in his early 40s diagnosed with STUMP. Despite presenting with normal prostate-specific antigen (PSA) concentrations, the patient experienced persistent dysuria and gross hematuria for >7 months, leading to an initial misdiagnosis of benign prostatic hyperplasia. Persistent symptoms prompted further investigation, with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealing a suspicious lesion on the left side of the prostate, initially thought to be malignant. Transrectal prostatic biopsy subsequently confirmed the presence of mucinous liposarcoma, with no medical history of diabetes, coronary heart disease, or hypertension. The treatment approach comprised robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy, culminating in a postoperative pathological definitive diagnosis of STUMP. This case underscores the indispensable role of early MRI in the diagnostic process, highlighting the necessity of detailed pathological examination for a conclusive diagnosis. Our report aims to illuminate the diagnostic challenges and potential treatment pathways for STUMP, emphasizing its consideration in the differential diagnosis of prostatic tumors to advance clinical outcomes in this rare but important condition.
An update on chronic complications of diabetes mellitus: from molecular mechanisms to therapeutic strategies with a focus on metabolic memory
Authors: Yang Tongyue , Qi Feng , Guo Feng , Shao Mingwei , Song Yi , Ren Gaofei , Linlin Zhao , Qin Guijun , Zhao Yanyan
Published: May 2024

Diabetes mellitus, a chronic metabolic disease, often leads to numerous chronic complications, significantly contributing to global morbidity and mortality rates. High glucose levels trigger epigenetic modifications linked to pathophysiological processes like inflammation, immunity, oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, senescence and various kinds of cell death. Despite glycemic control, transient hyperglycemia can persistently harm organs, tissues, and cells, a latent effect termed "metabolic memory" that contributes to chronic diabetic complications. Understanding metabolic memory's mechanisms could offer a new approach to mitigating these complications. However, key molecules and networks underlying metabolic memory remain incompletely understood. This review traces the history of metabolic memory research, highlights its key features, discusses recent molecules involved in its mechanisms, and summarizes confirmed and potential therapeutic compounds. Additionally, we outline in vitro and in vivo models of metabolic memory. We hope this work will inform future research on metabolic memory's regulatory mechanisms and facilitate the development of effective therapeutic compounds to prevent diabetic complications.
Physical frailty intensifies the positive association of oral frailty with poor global cognitive function and executive function among older adults especially for females: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Fei Yang , Niu Shuzhen , Xi Xueru , Tang Wenping , Zhao Yue , Zhang Ge , Yu Xiaohong , Li Cheng , Li Xinru , Liu Ying , Li Yaxin , Yin Yueheng , Cui Yan , Li Xianwen
Published: May 2024

Background

Oral frailty is reported to increase the risk of new onset of mild cognitive impairment. Whereas, the association of oral frailty with cognition among older adults in both physical frail and non-physical frail status has not been sufficiently explored, and whether there are sex differences in the association is unclear. This study investigated the association of oral frailty and physical frailty with global cognitive function and executive function among older adults, as well as the sex differences in such association.

Methods

This cross-sectional study included 307 participants aged ≥ 60 years old from communities between June 2023 and August 2023, in Nanjing, China. Global cognitive function and executive function were assessed by using the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and Trail Making Tests A (TMT-A), respectively. Oral frailty was identified by the combination of natural tooth, Oral Frailty Index-8 (OFI-8), and oral diadochokinesis. Physical frailty was measured by using Fried phenotype model which contained 5 criteria: unintentional weight loss, weakness, exhaustion, slowness, and low physical activity. Multiple linear regression analyses for overall participants and stratified by sex and presence or absence of physical frailty were performed, respectively, to examine the association between oral frailty and cognitive functions.

Results

The median age of participants was 70 years old. The study included 158 (51.5%) females, 53 (17.3%) individuals with physical frailty, and 65 (21.2%) participants with oral frailty. After adjustment, the association between oral frailty and global cognitive function was observed in the physical frailty group (B = -2.67, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: -5.27 to -0.07, p = 0.045) and the females with physical frailty (B = -4, 95% CI: -7.41 to -0.58, p = 0.024). Oral frailty was associated with executive function in overall participants (B = 0.12, 95% CI: 0.01 to 0.22, p = 0.037), physical frailty group (B = 23.68, 95% CI: 1.37 to 45.99, p = 0.038). In the adjusted models, oral frailty was significantly associated with executive function in all females (B = 0.21, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.36, p = 0.009), in females without physical frailty (B = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.02 to 0.36, p = 0.027), and in females with physical frailty (B = 48.69, 95% CI: 7.17 to 90.21, p = 0.024).

Conclusions

Physical frailty intensifies the positive association of oral frailty with poor global cognitive function and executive function among older adults, particularly among females. It is ponderable to consider sex differences and facilitate the management of physical frailty when it comes to promoting cognitive health based on the perspective of oral health among older adults.
Association between physical activity, peak expiratory flow, and cognitive function in aging: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Dong Bin , Yue Yang , Wang Zhe , Sun Min , Wang Yuehui
Published: May 2024

Background

The aging global population is experiencing escalating challenges related to cognitive deficits and dementia. This study explored the interplay between pulmonary function, physical activity, and cognitive function in older U.S. adults to identify modifiable risk factors for cognitive decline.

Methods

Utilizing NHANES 2011–2012 data, we conducted a cross-sectional analysis of 729 participants aged ≥ 60 years. Cognitive function, peak expiratory flow (PEF), and physical activity were assessed. Weighted logistic regression and mediation analyses were employed to examine associations.

Results

The sample size was 729 (weighted mean [SD] age, 67.1 [5.3] years; 53.6% female participants). Preliminary correlation analysis indicated a positive correlation between the global cognitive score and physical activity (β = 0.16; p < 0.001), recreational activity (β = 0.22; p < 0.001), and PEF in percent predicted (PEF%) (β = 0.18; p < 0.001). Compared to those with a PEF% >100%, the PEF% (80-100%) group (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.34–5.29; p = 0.005) and PEF% <80% group (OR, 3.36; 95% CI, 1.67–6.76; p = 0.001) were significantly associated with higher cognitive deficits risk. Recreational activity meeting guidelines was linked to a lower risk of cognitive deficits (OR, 0.24; 95% CI, 0.10–0.57; p = 0.001). Mediation analysis demonstrated that PEF mediates the relationship between physical activity and cognitive function.

Conclusion

This study revealed significant associations between lower PEF, diminished physical activity, and increased cognitive deficits in elderly individuals. The results supported the hypothesis that pulmonary function may mediate the connection between activity and cognitive health, emphasizing the importance of respiratory health in cognitive aging. Recognizing these associations is crucial for clinical care and public health policy aiming to mitigate cognitive decline in aging populations. While these findings are intriguing, validation through longitudinal design studies is deemed necessary.
Effect of standardized patient simulation-based pedagogics embedded with lecture in enhancing mental status evaluation cognition among nursing students in Tanzania: A longitudinal quasi-experimental study
Authors: Singano Violeth E. , Millanzi Walter C. , Moshi Fabiola
Published: May 2024

Background

Nurses around the world are expected to demonstrate competence in performing mental status evaluation. However, there is a gap between what is taught in class and what is practiced for patients with mental illness among nursing students during MSE performance. It is believed that proper pedagogics may enhance this competence. A longitudinal controlled quasi-experimental study design was used to evaluate the effect of using standardized patient simulation-based pedagogics embedded with a lecture in enhancing mental status evaluation cognition among nursing students in Tanzania.

Methods

A longitudinal controlled quasi-experimental study design with pre-and post-test design studied 311 nursing students in the Tanga and Dodoma regions. The Standardized Patient Simulation-Based Pedagogy (SPSP) package was administered to the intervention group. Both groups underwent baseline and post-test assessments using a Interviewer-adminstered structured questionnaire as the primary data collection tool, which was benchmarked from previous studies. The effectiveness of the intervention was assessed using both descriptive and inferential statistics, specifically the Difference in Difference linear mixed model, and the t-test was carried out using IBM Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS) software, version 25.

Results

The participant’s mean age was 21 years ± 2.69 with 68.81% of the students being female. Following the training Students in the intervention group demonstrated a significant increase in MSE cognition post-test, with an overall mean score of (M ± SD = 22.15 ± 4.42;p = < 0.0001), against (M ± SD = 16.52 ± 6.30) for the control group.

Conclusion

A significant difference exists in the levels of cognition, among nursing students exposed to Mental Status Evaluation (MSE) materials through Standardized Patient Simulation-Based Pedagogy (SPSP) embeded with lectures. When MSE materials are delivered through SPSP along with lectures, the results are significantly superior to using lectures pedagogy alone.
Utilization of reproductive health services among undergraduate regular class students in Assosa University, BGRS: a comparison among three varieties of multilevel binary logistic regression models
Authors: Gobena Molalign Gualu , Alemu Yihenew Mitiku
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Reproductive health service (RHS) helps for people to have a delighted and safe sex through their life journey. It enables especially for women to go safely through pregnancy and childbirth and provide couples with the best chance of having a healthy infant. Therefore, this study aimed to identify the significant determinants of RHS utilization among undergraduate regular class students in Assosa University by using advanced methodology.

Methods

We used cross-sectional study design to collect RHS data from 362 students in Assosa University from 5 to 16, may 2021. These students were selected using stratified random sampling technique. We also used cross-tabulation to summarize the extents of RHS utilization across all predictors in terms of percentage and three varieties of multilevel binary logistic regression model to model the determinants of RHS.

Results

42.27% of undergraduate regular class students in Assosa University utilize at least one type of RHS during their time at Assosa University whereas, 57.73% of undergraduate regular class students in this University are not utilized it. Among three varieties of multilevel binary logistic regression models, the random slopes two-level model was selected as a best fitted model for the datasets. At 5% level of significance, awareness about RHS, gender, preference of service fees and student’s monthly average income were significant predictor variables in this model. In addition, the covariates; age, gender and preference of service fees have a significant random effects on utilization of RHS across all colleges/school.

Conclusion

Students who; preferred service fee as usual rate, have awareness about RHS, are females and have high monthly average income were more likely to utilize RHS. RHS utilization among undergraduate regular students in Assosa University is likely to increase more effectively with interventions that address these factors.
Establishment of canine mammary gland tumor cell lines harboring PI3K/Akt activation as a therapeutic target
Authors: Park Seo-Young , Baek Yeong-Bin , Lee Chan-Ho , Kim Hyun-Jin , Kim Hwang-Phill , Jeon Young-Jun , Song Jung Eun , Jung Su-Bin , Kim Hyo-Jin , Moon Kyeong-Seo , Park Sang-Ik , Lee Chang-Min , Kim Sung-Hak
Published: May 2024

Canine mammary gland tumors (MGT) have a poor prognosis in intact female canines, posing a clinical challenge. This study aimed to establish novel canine mammary cancer cell lines from primary tumors and characterize their cellular and molecular features to find potential therapeutic drugs. The MGT cell lines demonstrated rapid cell proliferation and colony formation in an anchorage-independent manner. Vimentin and α-SMA levels were significantly elevated in MGT cell lines compared to normal canine kidney (MDCK) cells, while CDH1 expression was either significantly lower or not detected at all, based on quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) analysis. Functional annotation and enrichment analysis revealed that epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) phenotypes and tumor-associated pathways, particularly the PI3K/Akt signaling pathway, were upregulated in MGT cells. BYL719 (Alpelisib), a PI3K inhibitor, was also examined for cytotoxicity on the MGT cell lines. The results show that BYL719 can significantly inhibit the proliferation of MGT cell lines in vitro. Overall, our findings suggest that the MGT cell lines may be valuable for future studies on the development, progression, metastasis, and management of tumors.
Dynamic hydrogel–metal–organic framework system promotes bone regeneration in periodontitis through controlled drug delivery
Authors: Luo Qipei , Yang Yuxin , Ho Chingchun , Li Zongtai , Chiu Weicheng , Li Anqi , Dai Yulin , Li Weichang , Zhang Xinchun
Published: May 2024

Periodontitis is a prevalent chronic inflammatory disease, which leads to gradual degradation of alveolar bone. The challenges persist in achieving effective alveolar bone repair due to the unique bacterial microenvironment’s impact on immune responses. This study explores a novel approach utilizing Metal–Organic Frameworks (MOFs) (comprising magnesium and gallic acid) for promoting bone regeneration in periodontitis, which focuses on the physiological roles of magnesium ions in bone repair and gallic acid's antioxidant and immunomodulatory properties. However, the dynamic oral environment and irregular periodontal pockets pose challenges for sustained drug delivery. A smart responsive hydrogel system, integrating Carboxymethyl Chitosan (CMCS), Dextran (DEX) and 4-formylphenylboronic acid (4-FPBA) was designed to address this problem. The injectable self-healing hydrogel forms a dual-crosslinked network, incorporating the MOF and rendering its on-demand release sensitive to reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and pH levels of periodontitis. We seek to analyze the hydrogel’s synergistic effects with MOFs in antibacterial functions, immunomodulation and promotion of bone regeneration in periodontitis. In vivo and in vitro experiment validated the system's efficacy in inhibiting inflammation-related genes and proteins expression to foster periodontal bone regeneration. This dynamic hydrogel system with MOFs, shows promise as a potential therapeutic avenue for addressing the challenges in bone regeneration in periodontitis.

Graphical Abstract
Integration of music-based game approaches with wearable devices for hand neurorehabilitation: a narrative review
Authors: Urbina Javier , Abarca Victoria E. , Elias Dante A.
Published: May 2024

Background

Restoring hand functionality is critical for fostering independence in individuals with neurological disorders. Various therapeutic approaches have emerged to address motor function restoration, with music-based therapies demonstrating notable advantages in enhancing neuroplasticity, an integral component of neurorehabilitation. Despite the positive effects observed, there remains a gap in the literature regarding implementing music treatments in neurorehabilitation, such as Neurologic Music Therapy (NMT), especially in conjunction with emerging fields like wearable devices and game-based therapies.

Methods

A literature search was conducted in various databases, including PubMed, Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and ACM Digital Library. The search was performed using a literature search methodology based on keywords. Information collected from the studies pertained to the approach used in music therapy, the design of the video games, and the types of wearable devices utilized.

Results

A total of 158 articles were found, including 39 from PubMed, 34 from IEEE Xplore, 48 from Scopus, 37 from ACM Digital Library, and 35 from other sources. Duplicate entries, of which there were 41, were eliminated. In the first screening phase, 152 papers were screened for title and abstract. Subsequently, 89 articles were removed if they contained at least one exclusion criterion. Sixteen studies were considered after 63 papers had their full texts verified.

Conclusions

The convergence of NMT with emerging fields, such as gamification and wearable devices designed for hand functionality, not only expands therapeutic horizons but also lays the groundwork for innovative, personalized approaches to neurorehabilitation. However, challenges persist in effectively incorporating NMT into rehabilitation programs, potentially hindering its effectiveness.
State paid family leave policies and breastfeeding duration: cross-sectional analysis of 2021 national immunization survey-child
Authors: Rosenberg Julia , Nardella Deanna , Shabanova Veronika
Published: May 2024

Background

Paid parental leave policies may promote breastfeeding, which can have short- and long-term health benefits for both members of the birthing person-infant dyad. In the United States, where 56% of the workforce qualifies for unpaid federal medical leave, certain states have recently enacted paid parental and family leave policies. We aimed to assess the extent to which living in states with versus without paid family leave was associated with feeding regimens that included breastfeeding.

Methods

In this cross-sectional analysis of the 2021 National Immunization Survey-Child, we assessed feeding outcomes: (1) exclusively breastfed (only fed breastmilk—never infant formula—both before and after six months of age), (2) late mixed breastfeeding (formula after six months), (3) early mixed breastfeeding (breastfed, formula before six months), and (4) never breastfed. We conducted Pearson χ2 to compare social-demographic characteristics and multivariable nominal regression to assess extent to paid family leave was associated with breastfeeding regimens, compared with never breastfeeding.

Results

Of the 35,995 respondents, 5,806 (25% of weighted respondents) were from states with paid family leave policies. Compared with never breastfeeding, all feeding that incorporated breastfeeding—exclusive breastfeeding, late mixed feeding (breastfed, formula introduced after six months), and early mixed feeding (breastfed, formula introduced before six months)—were more prevalent in states with paid family leave policies. The adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR) and differences in adjusted prevalence compared with never breastfeeding in states with versus without paid family leave policies were: aPR 1.41 (95% CI 1.15, 1.73), 5.36% difference for exclusive breastfeeding; aPR 1.25 (95% CI 1.01, 1.53), 3.19% difference for late mixed feeding, aPR 1.32 (95% CI 1.32, 1.97), 5.42% difference for early mixed feeding.

Conclusion

States with paid family leave policies have higher rates of any breastfeeding and of exclusive breastfeeding than states without such policies. Because all feeding types that incorporate breastfeeding were higher in states with paid family leave policies, expansion of paid family leave may improve breastfeeding rates.