bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regenerative Medicine in Orthopaedic Surgery: Pioneering Advances and Their Applications
Authors: Islam Moh. Tawhidul , Bulut Dilber , Sharabidze Zuka
Published: January 2025

Regenerative medicine has significantly impacted orthopaedic surgery by introducing biological therapies aimed at repairing, restoring, or replacing damaged musculoskeletal tissues. Recent advancements in stem cell therapies, platelet-rich plasma (PRP), and tissue engineering have paved the way for improved treatments for cartilage, bone, tendon, and ligament injuries. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSC) are gaining attention for their ability to regenerate tissues, while PRP shows promise in accelerating tendon and cartilage healing. Innovations in cartilage regeneration, including autologous chondrocyte implantation and biomimetic scaffolds, address the limitations of self-repair, and bone regeneration is being enhanced through growth factors like bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) and synthetic grafts. In tendon and ligament repair, biological augmentation with scaffolds and growth factors is emerging as a novel approach. Moreover, regenerative approaches are making strides in spinal surgery and joint preservation, particularly in osteoarthritis treatment. However, challenges such as regulatory hurdles, cost, and the need for further clinical evidence remain. As the field progresses, the integration of cutting-edge techniques like 3D printing and gene therapy could further revolutionise orthopaedic regenerative medicine.
Analysis of Adolescent Crisis Levels, Crisis Outcomes, and Types of Self-Harm Behavior
Authors:   Korean Correction Counseling Psychological Association, Park Hyun Jeong , Jung Yu Ra , Kim Mi Ra
Published: January 2025

This study aims to investigate the current state of adolescent crises to determine crisis levels, crisis outcomes, and analyze types of self-harm behavior. The research was conducted on 1,839 middle and high school students in Y region. The survey method employed a self-report questionnaire administered in person, with a survey period from March 25 to April 30, 2024. For data analysis, frequency analysis and t-tests for correspondence were performed to assess adolescent crises. The Crisis Youth Status Survey Scale was used as a measurement tool to assess crisis levels, crisis outcomes, and self-harm behaviors. The results of this study are as follows: First, regarding the effects on determining adolescent crisis levels, when classified into high-risk, risk, potential risk, and general groups, students in the general group showed the highest levels. Second, in terms of the effects on crisis outcomes, internet and smartphone over-dependence was found to be the highest. Third, concerning the effects on self-harm behaviors, behaviors such as burning the body, inflicting burns, and swallowing dangerous substances were found to be the most prevalent. In summary, the current state of adolescent crises has been clearly identified, confirming crisis level determinations, crisis outcomes, and types of self-harm behaviors. This research will provide important foundational data for policy development and improvements in school counseling programs, by identifying the causes of crisis levels and self-harm behaviors. It is expected that this study will play a significant role in establishing more effective prevention and intervention strategies through a deeper understanding of the current state of adolescent crises.
A Study of Subject-Related Art Therapy on Self-esteem and Self-regulation of a Child from a Remarried Family
Authors:   Korean Correction Counseling Psychological Association, Cha Bo Yun , An Sang-Hee , Kim Yun
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of subject-related art therapy on the self-esteem and self-regulation of a maladjusted child from a remarried family. The subject was an 8-year-old maladjusted boy from a remarried family. The study was conducted twice a week with each session lasting 50 minutes, for a total of 20 sessions from August 30 to November 14, 2022. The self-esteem and self-regulation scales were used as research tools, and a comparative analysis was conducted between the pre-test and post-test results. Additionally, qualitative analysis was conducted for each stage and session based on the themes using observation records from each session. The results of this study were as follows. Firstly, it was confirmed that the subject-related art therapy has a positive effect on the self-esteem of maladjusted children in remarried families. Secondly, it was confirmed that subject-related art therapy has a positive effect on self-regulation of maladjusted children in remarried families. Thirdly, an examination of the qualitative changes by stage and session in subject-related art therapy programs for maladjusted children from remarried families demonstrated positive changes in their self-esteem and self-regulation. Through the above research results, it was confirmed that the subject-related art therapy has a positive effect on self-esteem and self-regulation of maladjusted children from remarried families.
PROBLEMS AND PROSPECTS OF PRODUCTION OF NEW GENERATION TEXTILES
Authors:   Financial University under the Government of the Russian Federation, Moscow, Russian Federation, KUSHNIR ANDREI M. ,   A. N. Kosygin Russian State University (Technology. Design. Art),   Russian University of Transport (RUT-MIIT)
Published: January 2025

The purpose of the study is to conduct a systematic analysis of the problems and prospects of the textile industry in the production of new generation textiles. The paper argues the following conclusions. New generation fabrics influence the development of the textile industry by utilizing the achievements of biology, electronics, engineering, chemistry and physics. They meet modern requirements for functionality and versatility, use intelligent sensors, adaptive materials and components. It is established that the main problems associated with the life cycle of new textiles are high cost; limited opportunities for use in mass production and customer satisfaction; compliance with operational and information security requirements; negative environmental impact and relative short lifespan. It is shown that in the coming years we should expect significant growth in the markets of smart textiles, clothing that generates energy and fashion products integrated with artificial intelligence; widespread adoption of the above technologies not only in niche segments, but also in the mass-market. This will significantly change the textile business, which is on the threshold of great changes.
INFRASTRUCTURE BONDS AS A TOOL FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CAPITAL-INTENSIVE INDUSTRIES
Authors:   The Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, Moscow, Russian Federation, KHRONI KIRILL O. , MILLERMAN ALEXANDER S. ,   INTEK-CONSULTING LLC, Moscow region, Roshal, Russian Federation
Published: January 2025

The article considers infrastructure bonds as one of the most relevant instruments for financing infrastructure and capital-intensive projects, its significance, state and dynamics in Russia at the present stage. Based on the generalization of foreign experience and the dynamics of the development of the infrastructure bond market, a hypothesis has been formed about the possibility of using this financing tool in various capital-intensive industries, in particular, for the development of the aviation industry. The paper analyzes the conclusions of a number of authors, including the approaches proposed by F. Barbosa (2020) and Della Croce R. Together with Yermo J. (2018), who emphasize the importance of attracting institutional investors for the successful implementation of infrastructure projects, an integrated approach is applied to the study of infrastructure bonds as a tool for the development of capital-intensive industries, and to illustrate the practical application of infrastructure bonds, several examples from different countries are selected and a comparative analysis is carried out. Infrastructure bonds are a promising instrument for financing various capital-intensive projects that require «long» money, however, a low proportion of this source of financing and slowing factors have been identified. The barriers and problems of financing infrastructure projects and directions for expanding the use of this form of financing are outlined. The legal, organizational and administrative measures for the development of the infrastructure bond market in Russia have been identified. The article considers recommendations for practical application and the possibility of subsequent use of the work to stimulate and develop the infrastructure bond market. The implementation of measures to expand the use of this tool will contribute to the intensification of the development of public-private partnerships and concession agreements, as well as more effective solutions to socio-economic problems, infrastructure modernization and, in particular, the development of the aviation industry.
Reassessing the schedule of the sugar season in maple under climate warming
Authors: de Lima Santos Gian , Silvestro Roberto , Kurokawa Sara Yumi Sassamoto , de Lafontaine Guillaume , Rossi Sergio
Published: January 2025

Daily temperature fluctuations trigger physical and metabolic processes in the xylem, affecting the timing and yield of maple sap production. This study evaluates sap production dynamics, examining the effects of mean monthly temperatures and freeze-thaw cycles before and during the sugar season. We developed a predictive model estimating sap phenology, i.e. the timings of sap season and their climatic drivers, under future warming scenarios in Quebec, Canada. We collected air temperatures and daily sap production at four study sites in 2022 and 2023 using rain gauges for simulating a gravity collection of sap. We estimated sap phenology using a neural network model based on average monthly temperatures. The length of the sugar season was consistent across and within sites, with the highly productive days showing similar occurrence across sites. Sap yields ranged from 9.28 to 23.8 liters in 2022 and 3.8 to 13.6 liters in 2023. Freeze-thaw events occurred on 64% of the days when sap was exuded. Our neural network model predicted that a 2°C increase in mean monthly temperatures would advance the sugar season start by 17 days and end by 13 days. Any mismatch between tapping and favorable weather conditions can significantly reduce sap production. With climate change, producers will be forced to progressively readjust the schedule of their field activities and tapping to match the shifting sugar season.
Exploring the composition of placental microbiome and its potential origin in preterm birth
Authors: Saadaoui Marwa , Djekidel Mohamed Nadhir , Murugesan Selvasankar , Kumar Manoj , Elhag Duaa , Singh Parul , Kabeer Basirudeen Syed Ahamed , Marr Alexandra Katharina , Kino Tomoshige , Brummaier Tobias , McGready Rose , Nosten François , Chaussabel Damien , Terranegra Annalisa , Al Khodor Souhaila
Published: January 2025

Introduction

For years, the placenta was believed to be sterile, but recent studies reveal it hosts a unique microbiome. Despite these findings, significant questions remain about the origins of the placental microbiome and its effects on pregnancy and fetal health. Some studies suggest it may originate from the vaginal tract, while others indicate that oral bacteria can enter the maternal bloodstream and seed the placenta. However, research analyzing the vaginal, oral, and placental microbiomes within the same cohort is lacking. Additionally, it’s unclear whether the placental microbiome differs between healthy pregnancies and those with complications like preterm birth (PTB), which remains a leading cause of neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide.

Methods

In this study, we performed 16S rRNA gene sequencing to investigate the composition of the oral and placental microbiome in samples collected from 18 women who experienced PTB and 36 matched controls who delivered at term (TB), all of whom were part of the Molecular Signature in Pregnancy (MSP) study. We leveraged on the multisite microbiome sampling from the MSP participants and on our previously published vaginal microbiome data to investigate the potential origins of the placental microbiome and assess whether its composition varies between healthy and complicated pregnancies.

Results and Discussion

Our analysis revealed distinct profiles in the oral microbiome of PTB subjects compared to those who delivered at term. Specifically, we observed an increased abundance of Treponema maltophilum, Bacteroides sp, Mollicutes, Prevotella buccae, Leptotrichia, Prevotella_sp_Alloprevotella, in the PTB group. Importantly, Treponema maltophilum species showed higher abundance in the PTB group during the second trimester, suggesting its potential use as biomarkers. When we assessed the placenta microbiome composition, we found that Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Actinobacteria, and Proteobacteria were the most dominant phyla. Interestingly, microorganisms such as Ureaplasma urealyticum were more abundant in PTB placenta samples. Our findings suggest that the placenta microbiome could originate from the oral or vaginal cavities, with a notable increase in the crosstalk between the vaginal and placental sites in cases of PTB. Specifically, our data revealed that in PTB cases, the placental microbiome exhibited a closer resemblance to the vaginal microbiome, whereas in term pregnancies, the placental microbiome was similar to the oral microbiome.
Clinical evaluation of a multiplex droplet digital PCR for diagnosing suspected bloodstream infections: a prospective study
Authors: Peng Yaqin , Xie Ruijie , Luo Yifeng , Guo Penghao , Wu Zhongwen , Chen Yili , Liu Pingjuan , Deng Jiankai , Huang Bin , Liao Kang
Published: January 2025

Background

Though droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) has emerged as a promising tool for early pathogen detection in bloodstream infections (BSIs), more studies are needed to support its clinical application widely due to different ddPCR platforms with discrepant diagnostic performance. Additionally, there is still a lack of clinical data to reveal the association between pathogen loads detected by ddPCR and corresponding BSIs.

Methods

In this prospective study, 173 patients with suspected BSIs were enrolled. A multiplex ddPCR assay was used to detect 18 pathogens. The results of ddPCR testing were evaluated in comparison with blood cultures (BCs) and clinical diagnosis. Taking BC as the gold standard, receiver operating characteristic curve and Cohen’s kappa agreement were used to investigate whether the pathogen load could predict a corresponding culture-proven BSI for the top five microorganisms detected by ddPCR.

Results

Of the 173 blood samples collected, BC and ddPCR were positive in 48 (27.7%) and 92 (53.2%) cases, respectively. Compared to BC, the aggregate sensitivity and specificity for ddPCR were 81.3% and 63.2%, respectively. After clinical adjudication, the sensitivity and specificity of ddPCR increased to 88.8% and 86.0%, respectively. There were 143 microorganisms detected by ddPCR. The DNA loads of these microorganisms ranged from 30.0 to 3.2×105 copies/mL (median level: 158.0 copies/mL), 72.7% (104/143) of which were below 1,000 copies/mL. Further, statistical analysis showed the DNA loads of Escherichia coli (AUC: 0.954, 95% CI: 0.898-1.000, κ=0.731, cut-off values: 93.0 copies/mL) and Klebsiella pneumoniae (AUC: 0.994, 95% CI: 0.986-1.000, κ=0.834, cut-off values: 196.5 copies/mL) were excellent predictors for the corresponding BSIs. The DNA loads of Pseudomonas aeruginosa (AUC: 0.816, 95% CI: 0.560-1.000, κ=0.167), Acinetobacter baumannii (AUC: 0.728, 95% CI: 0.195-1.000), and Enterococcus spp. (AUC: 0.282, 95% CI: 0.000-0.778) had little predictive value for the corresponding culture-proven BSIs.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that the multiplex ddPCR is a promising platform as a complementary add-on to conventional BC. The DNA loads of E. coli and K. pneumoniae present excellent predictive value for the corresponding BSIs. Further research is needed to explore the predictive potential of ddPCR for other microorganisms.
Preparation and evaluation of Brucella T4SS recombinant proteins in serodiagnosis of human brucellosis based on TMT-based proteomics technology
Authors: Wu Qi , Sun Chen , Guo Liping , Xie Yujia , Zhang Jinpeng , Yin Dehui
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Brucellosis, a significant zoonotic infectious disease, poses a global health threat. Accurate and efficient diagnosis is crucial for prevention, control, and treatment of brucellosis. VirB proteins, components of the Type IV secretion system (T4SS) in Brucella, play a pivotal role in bacterial virulence and pathogenesis but have been understudied for their diagnostic potential.

Methods

Tandem Mass Tag (TMT) proteomics technology was utilized to identify highly expressed VirB proteins from wild-type Brucella strains. Recombinant T4SS proteins were prepared, and an indirect ELISA method was established for serological diagnosis of human brucellosis.

Results

Seven T4SS proteins (rVirB3, rVirB4, rVirB9, rBMEII0036, rVirB8, rVirB11, and rVirB10) were expressed used to construct the indirect ELISA method which showed high diagnostic accuracy. Sensitivity and specificity of the proteins exceeded 0.9100 and 0.9167, respectively, demonstrating good performance comparable to traditional LPS and Rose Bengal Ag antigens. Cross-reactivity was observed in a limited number of serum samples from febrile patients without brucellosis.

Conclusions

The study highlights the potential of VirB proteins as novel diagnostic antigens for human brucellosis. Future research can further optimize the use of VirB proteins in diagnostic assays and explore their applications in vaccine development.
Youth and the pandemic: health information imaginaries and practices while navigating COVID-19 in Nigeria
Authors: Uzuegbunam Chikezie E.
Published: January 2025

This study explores young adults’ perceptions, behaviors, and how they navigated pandemic-related information, drawing from social cognitive theory. In the digital age, young people, characterized as “digital informavores,” actively seek, consume, and share information, playing a crucial role in health communication. The research, involving participants aged 18–30 in two urban centers in Nigeria, focused on COVID-19 socio-health concerns, including social distancing, masking, sanitizing, movement restrictions, vaccination, infection, testing, and treatment. The analysis, employing the social cognitive lens, and following a critical thematic approach, indicates that the degree of infodemic exposure experienced during the pandemic impacted participants’ understanding, attitudes, behaviors, and risk perceptions. Participants primarily relied on digital sources and social support systems for pandemic-related health information. Their self-efficacy and risk perceptions, as well as pandemic-induced affectations, were evident throughout the data. Attitudes toward the pandemic evolved from its onset, through the announcement and easing of the national lockdown, to the vaccination rollout. Dominant perceptions included the use of “copy and paste solutions” in Nigeria’s pandemic response, COVID-19 denialism, and politicization of the pandemic, leading to mistrust in government and health authorities. The pandemic’s impacts included mental health issues and economic hardship, particularly in a country lacking social security or welfare plans. Following a low vaccination rate among participants, the data revealed vaccine lethargy, “vaccinformation void,” vaccine misinformation, vaccine distrust, and vaccine inaccessibility, due to various reasons and factors at play. Some young adults adhered to health rules due to fear and anxiety, while others were nonchalant, overwhelmed by the rules or discouraged by others’ non-compliance. The young adults’ imaginaries and behaviors were influenced by sociocultural intermediaries, religious and political actors, and Nigeria’s socio-economic conditions.
The safety and efficacy of neutral electrolyzed water solution for wound irrigation: post-market clinical follow-up study
Authors: Valdová Veronika , Štěpánová Vladimíra , Lapčíková Lenka
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Chronic wounds are a significant public health challenge, representing a considerable burden on the healthcare system. There are numerous gaps in knowledge in the treatment of chronic wounds. First, it is difficult to follow patients through different types of care. Wounds in polymorbid, elderly patients often remain unhealed due to the patient succumbing to their primary disease. No reliable data exist regarding the time to wound closure, type of interventions, the use of antibiotics, the nature and rate of complications, or the causes of treatment failures.

Methods

This Post-Market Clinical Follow-Up (PMCF) study is a prospective, multicentric, observational, descriptive, qualitative survey among healthcare professionals that involves 237 patients with acute and chronic wounds treated with superoxide-based wound irrigation solution DebriEcaSan Alfa in real-world settings over 12 weeks, both outpatient and inpatient. The study aimed to collect additional clinical data to confirm the safety, performance, and clinical benefit of DebriEcaSan Alfa.

Results

The Manufacturer collected 237 survey forms from 81 healthcare facilities, nursing homes, and outpatient clinics in the Czech Republic. The most common diagnoses were venous leg ulcer, pressure ulcer, diabetic foot ulcer, and traumatic wound. The most common comorbidities and risk factors were obesity, diabetes mellitus, and peripheral artery disease. Significant improvement was observed in all parameters, including pain, malodor, affected tissues, reduction in wound size, and granulation and epithelization. A marked reduction in size was observed in all wound size categories. 19 (8%) patients healed by end of week 6; and 66 (28%) healed by week 9. 130 (55%) patients were considered healed by week 12.

Discussion

The current clinical practice guidelines refrain from recommending any of the available irrigation solutions and wound dressings due to low-quality evidence. Superoxidized solutions have excellent biocompatibility and are non-cytotoxic, non-sensitizing, not irritating, non-genotoxic, and have broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties. There is no objective baseline to compare the results to, as typical healing times in a comparable population are not accessible. No single standard of care exists in the treatment of chronic wounds, and significant variability in practices exists across the health system.
Enhancing resilience: the impact of a near-peer mentoring program on medical students
Authors: Pölczman Lea , Árva Dorottya , Győrffy Zsuzsa , Jámbor Márk , Végh András , Kristóf Gergő , Purebl György , Girasek Edmond
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Emerging adulthood is a vulnerable period and can be a crisis for many youth, leading to serious mental health problems. Medical students are especially vulnerable due to their high exposure to stressors, requiring enhanced resilience to cope with academic challenges. This study measured the effectiveness of a near-peer mentoring program in terms of resilience.

Methods

A non-randomised controlled trial was conducted at Semmelweis University involving 133 medical students. The case group (n = 94) comprised students who participated in a mentoring program as mentors or mentees. The control group (n = 39) did not participate in mentoring. Data was collected at two points, 5 months apart, at the semester’s start (August 2022) and end (February 2023). Self-report measures included sociodemographics, resilience (Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale), and depression (Depression Anxiety and Stress Scale). Statistical analysis involved descriptive statistics and mixed linear models for repeated-measures ANOVA.

Results

Results showed a significant increase in resilience for the case group compared to the control group (F (1, 129) = 5.578, p = 0.020), with no significant main effect of time. There was a significant interaction effect between intervention and time on resilience (F (1.000, 129.000) = 4.915, p = 0.028). Depression scores showed no significant group difference but a significant main effect of time (F (1.000, 129.000) = 4.725, p = 0.032) and the interaction effect between intervention and time on depression (F (1.000, 129.000) = 4.018, p = 0.047).

Discussion

This mentoring program effectively increased resilience and helped maintain mental health, contributing to developing skilled healthcare professionals—where resilience remains a key strength for 21st-century doctors.
GPR55 in the tumor microenvironment of pancreatic cancer controls tumorigenesis
Authors: Ristić Dušica , Bärnthaler Thomas , Gruden Eva , Kienzl Melanie , Danner Laura , Herceg Karolina , Sarsembayeva Arailym , Kargl Julia , Schicho Rudolf
Published: January 2025

Background

The G protein-coupled receptor 55 (GPR55) is part of an expanded endocannabinoid system (ECS), and plays a pro-tumorigenic role in different cancer models, including pancreatic cancer. Next to cancer cells, various cells of the immune tumor microenvironment (TME) express receptors of the ECS that critically determine tumor growth. The role of GPR55 in cancer cells has been widely described, but its role in the immune TME is not well understood.

Methods

We intended to uncover the role of GPR55 in tumor immunity in a model of pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC). To this end, a KPCY tumor cell line or a GPR55-overexpressing KPCY cell line (KPCY55) from murine PDAC were subcutaneously injected into wildtype (WT) and GPR55 knockout (KO) mice, and immune cell populations were evaluated by flow cytometry.

Results

Deficiency of GPR55 in the TME led to reduced tumor weight and volume, and altered the immune cell composition of tumors, favoring an anti-tumorigenic environment by increasing the number of CD3+ T cells, particularly CD8+ T cells, and the expression of PDL1 on macrophages. RNA-seq pathway analysis revealed higher T cell activity in KPCY55 tumors of GPR55 KO vs. WT mice. In addition, tumors from GPR55 KO mice displayed increased levels of T cell chemokines Cxcl9 and Cxcl10. Migration of T cells from GPR55 KO mice towards CXCL9 was increased in comparison to T cells from WT mice, suggesting that a CXCR3/CXCL9 axis was involved in T cell influx into tumors of GPR55 KO mice. Notably, anti-PD-1 immunotherapy increased tumor burden in WT mice, while this effect was absent in the GPR55 KO mice.

Conclusion

Our study indicates that GPR55 in TME cells may drive tumor growth by suppressing T cell functions, such as migration, in a model of PDAC, making it an interesting target for immunotherapies.
Enhanced detection of circulating tumor cells using a MUC1 promoter-driven recombinant adenovirus
Authors: Wang Cheng , Gu Huihui , Cai Jia , Zhu Chuandong , Zheng Qin , Xu Hanfeng , Wang Lixue , Wan Yuan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Circulating tumor cells (CTCs) have attracted significant interest as a biomarker for cancer diagnosis. In this study, we judiciously constructed a recombinant MUC1-dependent adenovirus (rAdF35-MUC1) that can selectively replicate and overexpress copepod super green fluorescent proteins (copGFP) in MUC1-positive tumor cells to investigate its role in the detection of CTCs.

Methods

We conducted a comparative study between rAdF35-MUC1 and the existing hTERT-dependent adenovirus (rAdF35-hTERT). Breast cancer cell lines and healthy human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) were infected with both viral constructs to evaluate infection efficiency and the incidence of false-positive cells. CTC Model Samples were employed to determine detection rates, and clinical samples from breast cancer patients were analyzed to preliminarily evaluate the efficacy of CTC detection in a clinical context.

Results

In preclinical and clinical studies, rAdF35-MUC1 exhibited a significantly high detection efficiency for breast cancer cells, outperforming the existing hTERT-dependent adenovirus (rAdF35-hTERT), especially in detecting CTCs at low quantities. Moreover, rAdF35-MUC1 demonstrated reduced incidence of false positives in healthy PBMCs compared to rAdF35-hTERT.

Conclusion

In brief, rAdF35-MUC1 emerges as a potent tool for the sensitive and specific identification of CTCs derived from breast cancer patients, holding clinical translation potential for advancing cancer (early) diagnosis, treatment monitoring, and prognosis.
Identification of methyltransferase and demethylase genes and their expression profiling under biotic and abiotic stress in pigeon pea (Cajanus cajan [L.] Millspaugh)
Authors: Kumari Priyanka , Bhattacharjee Sougata , Venkat Raman K. , Tilgam Jyotsana , Paul Krishnayan , Senthil Kameshwaran , Baaniya Mahi , Rama Prashat G. , Sreevathsa Rohini , Pattanayak Debasis
Published: January 2025

The methylation- demethylation dynamics of RNA plays major roles in different biological functions, including stress responses, in plants. m6A methylation in RNA is orchestrated by a coordinated function of methyl transferases (writers) and demethylases (Erasers). Genome-wide analysis of genes involved in methylation and demethylation was performed in pigeon pea. Blast search, using Arabidopsis gene sequences, resulted in the identification of two methylation genes (CcMTA70, CcMTB70), two genes encoding adaptor proteins for methylation (CcFIPA and CcFIPB) and 10 demethylase (ALKBH) genes (CcALKBH1A, CcALKBH1B, CcALKBH1C, CcALKBH2, CcALKBH8, CcALKBH8A, CcALKBH8B, CcALKBH9, CcALKBH10A and CcALKBH10B) in the pigeon pea genome. The identified genes were analyzed through phylogenetic relationship, chromosomal position, gene structure, conserved motif, domain and subcellular location prediction etc. These structural analyses resulted in categorization of MTs and FIPs into one group, i.e., CcMTA/B and CcFIPA/B, respectively; and ALKBHs into four groups, viz. CcALKBH1/2, CcALKBH8, CcALKBH9 and CcALKBH10. Relative expression analysis of the identified genes in various tissues at different developmental stages revealed the highest level of expression in leaf and the least in root. CcMTs and CcFIPs had similar patterns of expression, and CcALKBH10B demonstrated the highest and CcALKBH2 the lowest level of expression in all the tissues analyzed. CcALKBH8 showed the highest induction in expression upon exposure to heat stress, and CcALKBH10B demonstrated the highest level of induction in expression during drought, salt and biotic (Helicoverpa armigera infestation) stresses. The present study would pave the way for detailed molecular characterization of m6A methylation in pigeon pea and its involvement in stress regulation.
Effects of internet-based cognitive behavioral therapy on anxiety and depressive symptoms among patients with cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Shuangyu , Gao Lishuo , Wang Congyu , Bai Jinbing , Shen Mengshuang , Zhao Xuejie , Lin Mei
Published: January 2025

Background

This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of Internet-based Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (ICBT) in reducing anxiety and depressive symptoms among patients with cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) and to explore how intervention characteristics, such as module number and program duration, influence treatment outcomes.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted by searching eight databases, including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published up to December 2023. Studies involving adult CVD patients with anxiety or depressive symptoms who underwent ICBT interventions were included. Statistical analyses used random-effects models, with subgroup analyses performed to assess the impact of intervention format, module number, and program duration. Sensitivity and publication bias assessments ensured the robustness of the findings.

Results

Eight RCTs with 1177 participants were included. ICBT significantly reduced depressive symptoms (SMD = -0.32, 95% CI [-0.56, -0.08], p < 0.015) and anxiety symptoms (SMD = -0.37, 95% CI [-0.68, -0.06], p < 0.001). Subgroup analysis indicated that self-guided ICBT was more effective than therapist-guided ICBT. Programs with fewer than eight modules were more effective for anxiety, while those with eight or more modules were more effective for depression. Shorter programs (< 9 weeks) were better for anxiety, whereas longer programs (≥ 9 weeks) were more effective for depression.

Conclusions

ICBT is an effective intervention for managing anxiety and depression in CVD patients. Tailoring ICBT interventions based on symptom type, module number, and program duration can optimize outcomes. Future research should explore personalized, long-term strategies to enhance effectiveness and safety.
Establishment and validation a relapse prediction model for bipolar disorder
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqian , Wu Minghao , Wang Daojin , Wang Long , Xie Wen
Published: January 2025

Background

The recurrence rate of bipolar disorder (BD) is relatively high. Assessing the risk of relapse in patients with BD can assist in identifying populations at high risk for recurrence, and early feasible interventions can improve patient’ prognoses. Therefore, it is important to establish and validate predictive models for relapse risk in patients with BD.

Method

We used 303 patients with BD admitted to the Anhui Mental Health Center as a retrospective training cohort and 81 patients from the Wuhu Fourth People’s Hospital as an external validation cohort. We collected a multidimensional assessment of the characteristics of patients eligible for enrollment, including general demographic characteristics, medical history, treatment, and assessment of selected scales. At the same time, they were followed up for 1 year after reaching the recovery standard after treatment. Depending on whether their symptoms returned within a year, patients with BD were divided into recurrent and non-recurrent groups. Recurrence risk factors for BD were selected using univariate and binary logistic regression analyses based on the clinical data of the patients and other pertinent information. A nomogram model was developed to predict the incidence of BD relapse. To further assess the model fit and dependability, calibration curves, working curves of subject attributes, and decision curves were also employed.

Result

A total of 384 patients with BD were enrolled in this study, of whom 250(65.1%) had non-recurrent episodes and 134(34.9%) had recurrent episodes. Of these, 96 (31.7%) had relapses at the Anhui Mental Health Centre and 38 (46.9%) at the Fourth People’s Hospital of Wuhu City. According to the results of univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses, the number of prior episodes (odds ratio [OR]: 1.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.179–1.615), Social Disability Screening Schedule (SDSS) score (OR: 1.303, 95% CI: 1.027-1.652), Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) (OR: 1.476, 95% CI: 1.29-1.689), Number of visits(OR: 0.768, 95% CI: 0.684-0.863), suicidal behaviors (OR: 5.54, 95% CI: 1.818-16.881) and the electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) (OR: 0.382, 95% CI: 0.156-0.94) were independent risk factors for relapse in patients with BD. An analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve, calibration curve, and clinical decision curve further revealed that the predictive efficiency and degree of fit between the predicted value of the nomogram and the actual observed value were better.

Conclusion

This study found that the number of previous episodes, SDSS score, PSQI score and suicidal behaviors were independent risk factors for relapse of BD, while the number of visits and ECT were protective factor. Based on these factors, we developed and validated a nomogram for predicting relapse in patients with BD; that has clinical reference values.
The Effect of Drinking Ionized Water on the Productive Performance, Physiological Status, and Carcass Characteristics of Broiler Chicks
Authors: Mohamed Abdullah , Khalil Mohamed , Soliman Farid , El-Sabrout Karim
Published: January 2025

Water treatment technologies have received great attention recently, as water is the most important nutritional element, and animals consume it daily in larger quantities than those of food. The ideal water treatment affects the chemical composition and physical properties of water, having a significant positive impact on the animal’s physiology, productivity, and welfare. Studies conducted on water ionization devices for broiler chickens remain limited; therefore, this study was planned to investigate the effect of ionized drinking water on the productive performance, physiological status, and carcass characteristics of broiler chicks. A total of 900 one-day-old broiler chicks were randomly and equally assigned to three groups, each with six replicates (50 birds/replicate). The first group (C) received tap drinking water and served as a control, while the second group (T1) received ionized drinking water from an ionizing device that worked for 1 h/100 L. The third group (T2) received ionized drinking water from an ionizing device that worked for 2 h/100 L. Water analysis for each treatment was performed. Productive traits, such as weekly body weight, feed intake, and water intake, were recorded. Hematological parameters and biochemical constituents were measured according to the reference’s description. Furthermore, carcass characteristics, such as carcass weight and dressing percentage, and bacterial count of the intestine, such as Lactobacilli and Coliform counts, were determined. From the results, ionized water (T1 and T2) had a negative ORP, which is often desirable as it suggests the presence of antioxidant properties and lower total dissolved solids (TDSs), heterotrophic plate count (HPC), and algal total count (ATC) than in tap water. The treated chicks showed higher final body weights and better feed conversion rates than the control. Ionized water also improved carcass quality characteristics, such as carcass weight and dressing percentage. T1 and T2 chicks exhibited higher hemoglobin, total protein, globulin, G and M immunoglobulin, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) levels, as well as lower malondialdehyde (MDA) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels than the control. Furthermore, they had lower pathogenic bacteria counts. Therefore, it is recommended to employ the ionizing approach for broiler chicken drinking water, particularly a 2 h/100 L ionization application, for better animal productivity, health, and welfare.
Metabolic Performance of Mealworms and Black Soldier Fly Larvae Reared on Food and Agricultural Waste and By-Products
Authors: Nielsen Frederik Kjær , Hansen Rasmus Juhl , Muurmann Asmus Toftkær , Bahrndorff Simon , Eriksen Niels Thomas
Published: January 2025

Mealworms and black soldier fly (BSF) larvae are two of the most reared insects at an industrial scale. Both may feed on by-products from agricultural and food industries. Feed efficiency is one of the most important aspects of such processes and varies between species and feed substrates and depends on the metabolic performance of the larvae. Compared to each other, both species may hold advantageous capabilities affecting their feed efficiency, likely depending on the feed substrate. We reared mealworms and BSF larvae on a diverse selection of by-products from agricultural and food industries, quantified major metabolic rates across their life spans, and compared their performances. The type of feed substrates had stronger effects on the growth of mealworms than on black soldier fly larvae. Generally, BSF larvae were advantageous in terms of the highest maximal specific growth rate (0.50–0.77 day−1) and feed assimilation rate (0.81–1.16 day−1) and shortest development period (23–25 days) but disadvantageous in terms of metabolic maintenance cost (0.07–0.21 day−1). In mealworms, the maximal specific growth rates were 0.02–0.11 day−1, the highest feed assimilation rates were 0.16–0.37 day−1, and the development period was at least 65–93 days, while maintenance was only 0.02–0.05 day−1. In contrast to the BSF larvae, the specific maintenance rate was weight dependent in the mealworms and lowest in the largest individuals. The combined outcome of these metabolic rates resulted in an average carbon net growth efficiency, NGE*avg of 0.16–0.40 in mealworms and 0.33–0.56 in BSF larvae across their life span. It thus seems that BSF larvae are more versatile and somewhat more efficient at converting diverse feed substrates into growth than mealworms. Differences in NGE*avg affected the substrate conversion efficiencies (i.e., the ratio of the weight gain of the larvae to the reduced weight of feed substrates) and may thus impact the overall outcome of insect farming.
Enhancing Clinical Assessment of Skin Ulcers with Automated and Objective Convolutional Neural Network-Based Segmentation and 3D Analysis
Authors: Cavazzana Rosanna , Faccia Angelo , Cavallaro Aurora , Giuranno Marco , Becchi Sara , Innocente Chiara , Marullo Giorgia , Ricci Elia , Secco Jacopo , Vezzetti Enrico , Ulrich Luca
Published: January 2025

Skin ulcers are open wounds on the skin characterized by the loss of epidermal tissue. Skin ulcers can be acute or chronic, with chronic ulcers persisting for over six weeks and often being difficult to heal. Treating chronic wounds involves periodic visual inspections to control infection and maintain moisture balance, with edge and size analysis used to track wound evolution. This condition mostly affects individuals over 65 years old and is often associated with chronic conditions such as diabetes, vascular issues, heart diseases, and obesity. Early detection, assessment, and treatment are crucial for recovery. This study introduces a method for automatically detecting and segmenting skin ulcers using a Convolutional Neural Network and two-dimensional images. Additionally, a three-dimensional image analysis is employed to extract key clinical parameters for patient assessment. The developed system aims to equip specialists and healthcare providers with an objective tool for assessing and monitoring skin ulcers. An interactive graphical interface, implemented in Unity3D, allows healthcare operators to interact with the system and visualize the extracted parameters of the ulcer. This approach seeks to address the need for precise and efficient monitoring tools in managing chronic wounds, providing a significant advancement in the field by automating and improving the accuracy of ulcer assessment.
Collaborative Optimization of Aerodynamics and Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: He Fushan , Zheng Xingsheng , Luo Weilin , Zhong Jianfeng , Huang Yunhua , Ye Aili , Qiu Rongrong , Ma Huafu
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the application of multidisciplinary design optimization to the blades in horizontal-axis wind turbines. The aerodynamics and structural performance of blades are considered in the optimization framework. In the aerodynamic discipline, class function/shape function transformation-based parameterized modeling is used to express the airfoil. The Wilson method is employed to obtain the aerodynamic shape of the blade. Computational fluid dynamics numerical simulation is performed to analyze the aerodynamics of the blade. In the structural discipline, the materials and ply lay-up design are studied. Finite element method-based modal analysis and static structural analysis are conducted to verify the structural design of the blade. A collaborative optimization framework is set up on the Isight platform, employing a genetic algorithm to find the optimal solution for the blade’s aerodynamics and structural properties. In the optimization framework, the design variables refer to the length of the blade chord, twist angle, and lay-up thickness. Additionally, Kriging surrogate models are constructed to reduce the numerical simulation time required during optimization. An optimal Latin hypercube sampling method-based experimental design is employed to determine the samples used in the surrogate models. The optimized blade exhibits improved performance in both the aerodynamic and the structural disciplines.
G-UNETR++: A Gradient-Enhanced Network for Accurate and Robust Liver Segmentation from Computed Tomography Images
Authors: Lee Seungyoo , Han Kyujin , Shin Hangyeul , Park Harin , Kim Seunghyon , Kim Jeonghun , Yang Xiaopeng , Yang Jae Do , Yu Hee Chul , You Heecheon
Published: January 2025

Accurate liver segmentation from computed tomography (CT) scans is essential for liver cancer diagnosis and liver surgery planning. Convolutional neural network (CNN)-based models have limited segmentation performance due to their localized receptive fields. Hybrid models incorporating CNNs and transformers that can capture long-range dependencies have shown promising performance in liver segmentation with the cost of high model complexity. Therefore, a new network architecture named G-UNETR++ is proposed to improve accuracy in liver segmentation with moderate model complexity. Two gradient-based encoders that take the second-order partial derivatives (the first two elements from the last column of the Hessian matrix of a CT scan) as inputs are proposed to learn the 3D geometric features such as the boundaries between different organs and tissues. In addition, a hybrid loss function that combines dice loss, cross-entropy loss, and Hausdorff distance loss is designed to address class imbalance and improve segmentation performance in challenging cases. The proposed method was evaluated on three public datasets, the Liver Tumor Segmentation (LiTS) dataset, the 3D Image Reconstruction for Comparison of Algorithms Database (3D-IRCADb), and the Segmentation of the Liver Competition 2007 (Sliver07) dataset, and achieved 97.38%, 97.50%, and 97.32% in terms of the dice similarity coefficient for liver segmentation on the three datasets, respectively. The proposed method outperformed the other state-of-the-art models on the three datasets, which demonstrated the strong effectiveness, robustness, and generalizability of the proposed method in liver segmentation.
Strength Prediction Model for Cohesive Soil–Rock Mixture with Rock Content
Authors: Sun Yang , Xin Jianyong , He Junchao , Yu Junping , Ding Haibin , Hu Yifan
Published: January 2025

Fault fracture zones, characterized by high weathering, low strength, and a high degree of fragmentation, are common adverse geological phenomena encountered in tunneling projects. This paper performed a series of large-scale triaxial compression tests on the cohesive soil–rock mixture (SRM) samples with dimensions of 500 mm × 1000 mm to investigate the influence of rock content PBV (20, 40, and 60% by volume), rock orientation angle α, and confining pressure on their macro-mechanical properties. Furthermore, a triaxial numerical model, which takes into account PBV and α, was constructed by means of PFC3D to investigate the evolution of the mechanical properties of the cohesive SRM. The results indicated that (1) the influence of the α is significant at high confining pressures. For the sample with an α of 0°, shear failure was inhibited, and the rock blocks tended to break more easily, while the samples with an α of 30° and 60° exhibited fewer fragmentations. (2) PBV significantly affected the shear behaviors of the cohesive SRM. The peak deviatoric stress of the sample with an α of 0° was minimized at lower PBV (<20%), while both the deformation modulus and peak deviatoric stress were larger at high PBV (>60%). Based on these findings, an equation correlating shear strength and PBV was proposed under consistent α and matrix strength conditions. This equation effectively predicts the shear strength of the cohesive SRM with different PBV values.