bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Prevalence and Predictors of Improper Sharps Collection Practices Among People With Diabetes in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Sofiani Mohammed E. , Alsuwailem Ghadah , Barakeh Maee , Almarshoud Ghaida , Zawawi Alia , Bakader Rawan
Published: February 2025

Background:

Diabetes treatment requires the use of medical sharps for glycemic control. Improper sharps collection and disposal poses substantial threats to people with diabetes (PWD), health care professionals, the environment, and public health.

Objectives:

To identify the prevalence and predictors of improper sharps collection practices among PWD in Saudi Arabia.

Methods:

We surveyed 288 PWD at King Saud University Diabetes Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from September to October 2021. We asked questions about demographics, diabetes history, sharps collection practices, and prior education on proper sharps collection practices. We defined “proper sharps collection” as: using a designated sharps disposal container or homemade sealed container to collect sharps.

Results:

Of the PWD surveyed, 60% were women, 54% were ≥35 years old, and 53% had type 1 diabetes. Most respondents (80% and 72%) reported improper collection of needles and lancets, respectively. Approximately, 56% of needle users and 61% of lancet users reported that they had never received instructions on safe sharps disposal. Receiving education on safe sharps disposal practices was associated with a 66% reduction in the risk of improper sharps collection practices (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 0.34 [0.16-0.68]) after adjusting for age, gender, type and duration of diabetes, income, education, and nationality of the study participants. Among those who improperly dispose their needles, 67% thought their sharps collection practices were appropriate.

Conclusions:

Our findings highlight the high prevalence of unsafe sharps collection practices among PWD in Saudi Arabia, and how prior education on safe sharps collection practices can help address this environmental and public health threat. Policies to reduce diabetes-related waste, unify the approach to proper sharps collection and disposal, and promote safe disposal education are needed to achieve a sustainable and safe waste management system.
Sex-Based Comparisons of Hamstrings-to-Quadriceps Ratio Across the Velocity Spectrum
Authors: Searles Samantha , Hood James , Wood Morgan , Bello Marissa , Smith JohnEric , Gillen Zachary
Published: February 2025

Background:

Women are typically more prone to knee injuries than men, possibly due to poorer hamstrings-to-quadriceps ratio (HTQ), particularly during fast velocity movements.

Hypothesis:

Men would have greater HTQ across velocity than women.

Study Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Level of Evidence:

2.

Methods:

Ultrasound images quantified quadriceps and hamstrings muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) in 27 study participants (14 women, age, 24 ± 4 years; 13 men, age, 25 ± 6 years). Peak torque (PT) was taken from maximal voluntary isometric contractions (MVICs) and isokinetic leg extension and flexion contractions from 60° to 300° s–1. Independent samples t-tests examined differences in CSA and HTQ from CSA. Mixed-factorial ANOVAs examined differences in PT and HTQ from PT.

Results:

Men had larger CSA and PT than women for leg extension and flexion across velocity ( P < .01). There were no sex-based differences in the HTQ from CSA or PT across velocity ( P ≥ .11). For both groups, leg extension PT decreased from MVIC to 300° s–1 ( P ≤ .04). For women, leg flexion PT was the same from MVIC to 60° s–1 ( P > .98), decreased from 60° to 180° s–1 ( P < .01), and plateaued from 180° to 300° s–1 ( P ≥ .07). For men, leg flexion PT decreased from MVIC to 300° s–1 ( P ≤ .03). For both groups, HTQ increased from MVIC to 60° s–1 ( P < .01), then plateaued from 60° to 300° s–1 ( P > .98).

Conclusion:

Both groups had similar patterns of response for leg extension PT and HTQ across velocity, with no sex-based differences for HTQ. Factors other than HTQ may account for the potential sex-based difference in knee injury risk.

Clinical Relevance:

Increased knee injury predisposition for women compared with men may be due to neuromuscular control or anatomy rather than HTQ.
Navigating the Shift: Comparing Safety and Cost of Tenecteplase versus Alteplase in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Cassano Carina , Schiller Daryl , Fulman Magda
Published: February 2025

Background and Purpose

Recently, institutions have been transitioning to tenecteplase (TNK) as the primary agent for stroke management instead of alteplase (tPA) due to its comparable safety and cost-effectiveness. Despite TNK’s potential cost benefits, there’s limited literature on how wasted doses impact the overall cost. This study aimed to compare the safety and cost of TNK to tPA following the transition to TNK as the primary agent for acute ischemic stroke (AIS) management at a community hospital.

Methods

This retrospective study compared patients treated with tPA or TNK for AIS. The primary outcome was a composite of intracranial hemorrhage, any other bleed, and death from any cause. Secondary outcomes included the individual components of the primary outcome, length of hospitalization, time from administration decision to medication administration, readmission rate, medication costs, and wasted doses.

Results

48 AIS patients who received either tPA or TNK between November 2021 and February 2024 were included. TNK didn’t result in more occurrences of the primary outcome compared to tPA (OR 1.00, 95% CI 0.25 to 4.03). The TNK group had a shorter median length of hospitalization and decreased elapsed time from administration decision to administration. The cost difference between a 50 mg kit of TNK and a 100 mg vial of tPA is about $1100. The total number of wasted doses was 10 for tPA and 12 for TNK.

Conclusions

There was no difference in safety between TNK and tPA. While TNK offers cost savings, poor waste management could undermine its overall cost-effectiveness.
Primary low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma of the ovary with mesenteric metastasis: An unusual case report
Authors: Yuan Jun , Fu Yajun , Jiang Xiaohong , Li Na
Published: February 2025

Low-grade endometrial stromal sarcoma (LGESS) accounts for only 0.2% of gynecological malignancies. Primary low-grade extrauterine endometrial stromal sarcoma (LGEESS) is rare, and its morphology varies according to the tumor’s location, posing a significant diagnostic challenge for clinical pathologists. A 46-year-old female patient with bilateral ovarian cysts and multiple uterine fibroids underwent ovarian cystectomy and uterine myomectomy in 2013. Color Doppler ultrasound showed multiple uterine fibroids and bilateral ovarian cysts (left: 74 × 74 × 64 mm, right: 26 × 22 mm). Laboratory tests indicated an elevated squamous cell carcinoma associated antigen. The patient subsequently underwent a total hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy. Intraoperative pathological results were diagnosed as benign ovarian cysts. Combined with the morphological, immunohistochemical, and molecular results from the paraffin section, LGEESS was determined to be the final diagnosis. We prepared a comprehensive case report on the clinicopathological features of LGEESS to provide clinical pathologists with references that can help avoid misdiagnosis or missed diagnoses.
Feline malignant lymphoma in an uncommon location as a differential diagnosis for neurological disease
Authors: Lépine Maximilien , Schmitz Sarah , Körber Svenja , Köhler Kernt
Published: February 2025

Case summary

A 12-year-old male castrated domestic shorthair cat exhibited right Horner’s syndrome, right facial nerve paresis, difficulty swallowing, coughing, gait abnormalities and weight loss. Despite prior unspecific treatment by a primary care veterinarian with cortisone and antibiotics, the cat’s condition worsened, culminating in tetraparesis and right hemispasms. Imaging studies, including CT and MRI, identified a mass extending from the carotid body into the neurocranium, causing displacement of adjacent brain structures and meningeal contrast uptake. Histopathology confirmed a malignant B-cell lymphoma. Differential diagnoses are explored, with a particular focus on carotid body tumours, which originate from the chief cells of the carotid body. These neoplasias are rare in non-human primates, dogs, cats and horses, possibly influenced by genetic predisposition and environmental factors such as hypoxia.

Relevance and novel information

Carotid body tumours are rare in cats, as they are in other animal species. Although lymphomas are the most common feline neoplasms, to our knowledge, no previous case of a B-cell lymphoma in the carotid body has been described in the feline species to date. This case underscores the importance of considering rare and common neoplastic entities in feline patients with atypical clinical presentations and locations. Thereby highlighting the diagnostic challenges in veterinary oncology.
A New Age of Leadership in Academia: Need for Change and Innovation During COVID-19
Authors: Khan Mukaram Ali , Ghafoor Muhammad Mudassar , Mukaram Aamna Tariq , Zubair Syed Sohaib , Bokhari Syeda Zahra
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study is to explore the role of academic leadership and adaptive leadership on organizational readiness for change. During times of pandemic, adaptive leadership has emerged as a vital leadership discipline along with academic leadership due to uncertainty and sensitivity of situation. In addition, demand of innovative behavior has also increased over the years particularly during Covid-19. The study has been carried out in Higher Education Institutions of Pakistan where the data was collected from deans, directors and head of departments in two phases. Quantitative research strategy was opted for the study. Survey research design was followed to respond objectives of the study. The purpose behind the selection of senior academicians is to draw empirical results from the perspective of all the heads of their relevant departments. The data was collected from seven public sector universities across Pakistan. About 251 responses were found valid. Covariance based SEM was used to analyze the data. Analysis reveals a positive and direct relationship between academic and adaptive leadership and organizational readiness for change and similar results were found by placing innovative behavior as a mediator leading to the acceptance of all developed hypotheses. This study is unique in nature and has implications for leaders in academia in terms of unleashing the potential toward uncertain situation in higher education institutions. Study’s major limitation include less representation of the Pakistan as whole country as it included Punjab province only for data collection.
Knowledge, Attitude, and Practices of Physicians Toward Screening of Colorectal Cancer in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Arishi Abdulaziz A. , Al Hulaibi Manal A. , Hakami Amro A. , Khormi Khaled J. , Daraj Kawakeb M. , Hakami Elham A. , Najmi Mustafa Y. , Faqeeh Hind M. , Masmali AbdulRahman M. , Alhazmi Abdulaziz
Published: February 2025

The goal of this study is to investigate physicians’ current knowledge, attitudes, and practice regarding colorectal cancer screening (CRC) screening, as well as to determine the barriers to undergoing screening. This was an online-based cross-sectional study that was conducted in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia. Our targeted population was physicians at different levels. Data were analyzed and compared to determine the knowledge, attitude, and barriers toward the CRC screening. The study eventually included 323 participants, with a mean age of 32.66 (8.79) with the majority of them being residents (26.6%). Interns (25.1%), general practitioners (GP) (22.2%), specialists (15.2%), and consultants (11.2%) were the other levels of physicians. Many of the participants possessed a higher knowledge level. Physician and knowledge levels were not significantly different ( p = .821). A statistical difference between the physician level and attitude score was not seen ( p = .844), and all the physicians showed a positive attitude toward CRC screening. The most frequently stated patient-related and system-related hurdles were lack of knowledge about colorectal cancer and lack of knowledge about cancer screening guidelines, respectively. Physicians in the Jazan region are knowledgeable about CRC screening effectiveness and risk factors and have a positive attitude toward it. Obstacles, including a lack of understanding of colorectal cancer and the cancer screening recommendations, highlight the significance of raising cancer screening awareness among the public and implementing programs for doctors to update the integrated guidelines.
Critical Success Factors Influencing English Learning Outcomes in Blended Learning Environments
Authors: Li Ming , Yu Zhonggen
Published: February 2025

As the years progress, blended learning has risen in popularity. In light of a lack of systematic research on the significant intertwined influence on English learners’ academic success, this empirical study attempted to reveal critical success factors of students’ English learning outcomes in the blended learning environment based on the extensive review of previous studies. This study developed a novel model to investigate and assess the key factors that affect students’ learning success. Accordingly, this study adopted a questionnaire survey as a research instrument. Based on the survey data from 1,478 university students in China, this study used structural equation modeling by AMOS (version 24.0) to analyze the survey data and validate the proposed model. The results of this study revealed that learner attitude, self-identity, and course design were the predominant factors for learners’ academic success. Besides, learning outcomes and self-identity could significantly impact learners’ learning intentions and behaviors.
Short, But How Short? Analysis of Educational Research Titles
Authors: Orbay Keziban , Fernando Anne M. , Orbay Metin
Published: February 2025

In academic performance assessments, citations and citation-based metrics play a pivotal role. Among the elements that influence the success of an article, the title stands out as the first point of contact for editors, reviewers, and readers. Consequently, the title length-citation relationship is an extensively studied issue. While the dominant language used in the databases is English, rhetorical discourses are dominant in the non-English literature about the appropriate length of titles. This study investigates the relationships between title lengths, article downloads, and citations for educational research articles in the Turkish context. Specifically, it focuses on articles indexed in TRIndex and Google Scholar that were published in the Turkish Journal of National Education between 2010 and 2015. The parametric and nonparametric tests using different approaches (median and quarterly classification, correlation analysis) reveal a low negative correlation between title lengths and citations and downloads, a moderate positive correlation between downloads and citations, and a high positive correlation between the citations in the databases. It has been observed that the articles with short titles are read and cited more than the ones with longer titles. These findings align with previous research conducted in the English language. The results suggest that the optimal title length for educational research coincides with “ the magical number seven, plus or minus two,” often referred to as Miller’s Law, which represents the number of objects an individual can retain in their short-term memory. The study provides practical implications for authors, editors, and researchers on optimizing title length for better visibility and impact.
Psychological Distress and Sexual Dysfunction in Cancer Patients: Need for Psychological Intervention
Authors: Bindu Menon K  , Gadiraju Padmaja
Published: February 2025

Extensive studies were reported about sexual functioning in various chronic health conditions like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, neuro-muscular and degenerative diseases having adverse impact on reproductive health and sexual quality of life. Sexuality is the fundamental and essential domain of human experience that could be damaged during the journey with cancer. Sexual dysfunction may appear due to systemic effects of cancer like organ damage, hormonal changes, psychological distress or severe side effects of cancer treatment. The biomedical causes of cancer are well known, and there is a growing interest in exploring the psychological factors that exacerbate distress and sexual dysfunction, adversely affecting the health of cancer patients. This article brings out deeper concerns like psychological distress and sexual dysfunction and discusses the various determinants for preserving sexual and psychological health among the growing community of cancer survivors. The article compiled facts, figures, and narratives of distress and sexual dysfunction among cancer patients through an extensive literature survey using search sites like Google Scholar, Pub Med, Scopus and Web of Science. This article aims to analyse the psycho-social factors for distress and sexual dysfunction in cancer patients, discuss the relevance of sexual health models and, the evidence-based psychological intervention focused on improving the health of cancer patients.
The striatal matrix compartment is expanded in autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Waugh Jeff L. , Hassan Asim O. A. , Funk Adrian T. , Maldjian Joseph A.
Published: February 2025

Background

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is the second-most common neurodevelopmental disorder in childhood. This complex developmental disorder manifests with restricted interests, repetitive behaviors, and difficulties in communication and social awareness. The inherited and acquired causes of ASD impact many and diverse brain regions, challenging efforts to identify a shared neuroanatomical substrate for this range of symptoms. The striatum and its connections are among the most implicated sites of abnormal structure and/or function in ASD. Striatal projection neurons develop in segregated tissue compartments, the matrix and striosome, that are histochemically, pharmacologically, and functionally distinct. Immunohistochemical assessment of ASD and animal models of autism described abnormal matrix:striosome volume ratios, with an possible shift from striosome to matrix volume. Shifting the matrix:striosome ratio could result from expansion in matrix, reduction in striosome, spatial redistribution of the compartments, or a combination of these changes. Each type of ratio-shifting abnormality may predispose to ASD but yield different combinations of ASD features.

Methods

We developed a cohort of 426 children and adults (213 matched ASD-control pairs) and performed connectivity-based parcellation (diffusion tractography) of the striatum. This identified voxels with matrix-like and striosome-like patterns of structural connectivity.

Results

Matrix-like volume was increased in ASD, with no evident change in the volume or organization of the striosome-like compartment. The inter-compartment volume difference (matrix minus striosome) within each individual was 31% larger in ASD. Matrix-like volume was increased in both caudate and putamen, and in somatotopic zones throughout the rostral-caudal extent of the striatum. Subjects with moderate elevations in ADOS (Autism Diagnostic Observation Schedule) scores had increased matrix-like volume, but those with highly elevated ADOS scores had 3.7-fold larger increases in matrix-like volume.

Conclusions

Matrix and striosome are embedded in distinct structural and functional networks, suggesting that compartment-selective injury or maldevelopment may mediate specific and distinct clinical features. Previously, assessing the striatal compartments in humans required post mortem tissue. Striatal parcellation provides a means to assess neuropsychiatric diseases for compartment-specific abnormalities. While this ASD cohort had increased matrix-like volume, other mechanisms that shift the matrix:striosome ratio may also increase the chance of developing the diverse social, sensory, and motor phenotypes of ASD.
Hypocitraturia and urolithiasis risk: Insights from a 24-h urinary metabolic evaluation in South-Asian stone formers
Authors: Arjun N. , Dhanshekar N. , Kamble Nitin Kumar , Varghese Jofin John , Gaonkar Koustubh Jeevan , Gowda Anoushka , Nagaraj H. K. , Iqbal Tariq
Published: February 2025

Background

Urolithiasis is a chronic, systemic condition, with a high prevalencet and rising incidence. It leads to a lower quality-of-life for patients affected by it—even though asymptomatic. Lithogenesis is a metabolic process where urinary chemical abnormalities promote stone formation in the urinary tract. As a consequence, there needs to be an assessment of urinary chemicals that may prevent stone formation. The purpose of this study was to observe changes in a 24-h urine collection for metabolites to suggest an intervention to reduce the risk of recurrence in stone formers (SFs).

Methods

An observational study performed at a tertiary care hospital, with a cohort of 40 stone formers—after 4 weeks of any intervention and when found to be stone-free, were included in this prospective study. All patients underwent a basic metabolic work-up followed by a single 24-h urine collection which was evaluated for metabolites. Patients were categorized based on the risk for stone formation and critically analyzed.

Results

The mean age was 35 years (range: 9–65). Risk stratification identified 17 (42.5%) as first-time stone formers and 23 (57.5%) as recurrent stone formers. Overall, 27 (67.5%) patients were categorized as high risk for stone formation. 17 (42.5%) had at least one abnormality, the most common (26/40, 65%) being hypocitraturia, with only isolated hypocitraturia in 18 (45%) stone formers. Low urine volume (r = 0.317, p = 0.046) was significantly co-related with low magnesium and citrate levels (r = 0.534, p = 0.001). A solitary patient was identified to have gouty diathesis with no abnormality identified in 12 (30%). The mean body mass index (BMI) was 24.3 ± 3.12 kg/m2 and a higher BMI was significantly associated with high-risk status (χ
2 (2) = 17.43, p < 0.001) for stone formation.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider dietary modifications as the primary intervention for South-Asian patients with urolithiasis based on findings of hypocitraturia in 24-h urine collections. Future studies should validate dietary interventions to reduce stone recurrence and compare outcomes between South-Asian and Western populations.
Inhalational versus intravenous anesthetic for cerebrovascular accident outcomes after surgical revascularization for adult moyamoya disease
Authors: Cheng Yifei , Zha Chaochao , Che Xuehua , Wang Yingwei
Published: February 2025

Purpose

To compare the effects of inhalational anesthetics and intravenous anesthetics on the neurological function of patients with moyamoya disease (MMD) after vascular bypass surgery.

Methods

The clinical anesthesia data of patients were retrospectively collected. Patients who underwent bypass grafts with general anesthesia from January 1st, 2019, to December 31st, 2020, in Huashan Hospital affiliated with Fudan University, were selected. The primary endpoint was stroke incidence within seven days after anesthesia, and the secondary endpoints included transient neurological deficits (TNDs) and incidence of postoperative Epilepsy.

Results

We compared the data of MMD patients who received inhalational anesthetics (Sevoflurane anesthetics, n = 197, group S) and intravenous anesthetics (Propofol anesthetics, n = 219, group P). The stroke incidence in the two groups (group S vs. group P) was 6.6% vs. 5.9% (OR = 0.893; 95% CI, 0.404–1.976; p = 0.780), and the group S vs. group P of TNDs incidence was 32.5% vs. 31.1% (OR = 0.936; 95% CI, 0.619-0.1.415, p = 0.753). At discharge, anesthetics didn’t affect the neurological endpoint. Intravenous anesthetics provided patients with better hemodynamics compared with inhalational anesthetics during MMD vascular bypass surgery (group S vs. group P, ARVSBP: 6.4 vs. 5.2, p < 0.001, ARVDBP: 3.9 vs. 3.3, p = 0.002, ARVMBP: 4.5 vs. 3.8, p = 0.001,). There were statistical no differences in the NHISS score (S group vs. P group = 2:1, p = 0.082) at 7 days after surgery, but mRS score (S group vs. P group = 2:1, p < 0.001) at 7 days after surgery, as well as the mRS score at 6 months of follow-up (S group vs. P group = 0:0, p < 0.001), although the difference in scores was small.

Conclusion

Our data indicated that both inhalational and intravenous anesthetics had protective effects on patients who underwent MMD bypass grafts. MMD patients who received inhalational anesthetics and intravenous anesthetics had similar odds of neurological deficits. When comparing long-term clinical data, most patients experience good neurological recovery after receiving inhalation or intravenous anesthesia, when compared p75 mRS score(S group vs. P group = 3:1)in 6 month indicate that intravenous anesthetics might be more suitable for patients undergoing MMD bypass grafts. During the operation hemodynamic stability in the propofol group is greater than that in the sevoflurane anesthesia group.
Understanding and supporting the mental health and professional quality of life of academic mental health researchers: results from a cross-sectional survey
Authors: Bennett Jacks , Di Cara Nina , Winstone Lizzy
Published: February 2025

Background

Academic mental health research is critical to understanding, treating and preventing poor mental health. Researchers often have their own lived experience of a mental health condition, but despite potential exposure to distressing research material, the mental health and work-related quality of life of mental health researchers is not systematically supported in UK universities. This study aimed to quantitatively characterise the mental health experiences, professional quality of life and workplace support needs of this group.

Methods

UK academic mental health researchers (n = 254) answered an online survey in March 2024. Using linear regression modelling, we tested associations between socio-demographic, mental and physical health and work-related factors alongside negative and positive aspects of professional quality of life, i.e., secondary traumatic stress, burnout and compassion satisfaction, as well as maladaptive coping strategies such as alcohol and drug use or sickness absence from work. We also compared researchers’ workplace support experience with their perceived support need and examined implications for funding applications.

Results

Having personal lived experience of a mental health condition showed the strongest association with poorer professional quality of life outcomes. Mental health researchers using qualitative methods also reported higher levels of secondary traumatic stress and burnout than those using quantitative methods, as did those with a disability or chronic illness (compared to those without). Researchers with personal lived experience of a mental health condition also showed ten times the odds of taking sickness leave to cope with work related feelings. There were important differences between the types of workplace support researchers experience with those they report needing. Our evidence also points to more guidance needed on factoring support into research projects.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the wealth of lived experience amongst mental health researchers, and the importance of providing systematic proactive support for this group, as well as for those with a disability or chronic illness, or those using qualitative methodologies. With sickness absence having considerable economic and organisational consequences for employers and funders, recommendations include developing researcher well-being plans, regular end of project debriefs, development and training on challenging topics, and clearer consideration of researcher support in funding applications.
Computational development of mushroom-6-glucan/paclitaxel as a synergistic complementary medicine for breast cancer therapy
Authors: EL-Deeb Nehal M. , Ibrahim Omar M. , Kamel Ayman M. , Gomaa Ahmed I. , Kenawy Ahmed M.
Published: February 2025

Background

Breast cancer is chemo-resistant and highly metastatic, often resulting in patient mortality. One of the primary factors contributing to the metastasis and chemotherapy resistance is the presence of cancer stem-like cells. We posited that the natural polysaccharide known as 6-glucans, derived from Pleurotus ostreatus, could effectively counteract the chemotherapy resistance associated with cancer stem-like cells in breast cancer.

Methods

We computationally developed a specific dual combinatorial therapy involving 6-glucans and Paclitaxel (PTX) and tested on preclinical 3D mammosphere human tumor models representing receptor-positive and receptor-negative breast cancer. Using this preclinical 3D spheroid technology, we tested the anti-cancer properties of these predicted treatment combinations on mammospheres containing human breast cancer stem cells.

Results

Among the 40 distinct combinations examined, computational prediction revealed that the addition of 2.0 mg/mL of 6-glucans to a low dose of 3.0 µg/mL PTX was the sole combination demonstrating a synergistic effect. This optimized synergistic combination therapy displayed a significant inhibitory impact on human cancer epithelial and stem cell migration, evasion, and colony formation. The inclusion of 6-glucans also augmented apoptosis in both breast cancer cells and stem cells, leading to a six-fold reduction in BrdU labeled cells and an increased arrest of cells in the sub-G0 phase. These effects were mediated through mitochondrial dysfunction and the downregulation of associated oncogenes.

Conclusion

Our study revealed that the computationally predicted 6-glucans-based binary complementary medicine exhibited sequence- and concentration-dependent anticancer synergistic effects.
SWOT analysis of the application of three digital media in OLPE physical education teaching: Edmodo, Zoom, and Google Meet
Authors: Gao Yongqi , Zhu Li , Tian Miao
Published: February 2025

Digital education emphasizes the use of technology to enhance and transform teaching, promoting the improvement of instructional models. It is poised to become a significant driving force in advancing high-quality educational development. However, numerous practical challenges remain, such as disadvantages of digital technology resources, ethical norms, and professional training. This study aims to examine the advantages, disadvantages, opportunities and challenges of the three Online physical education(OLPE) teaching modes–Edmodo, Zoom and Google Meet–through literature review, case-based empirical method, survey-based empirical method, mathematical statistics analysis and SWOT analysis. It explores the international OLPE teaching concept, aiming to integrate digital sports teaching within the OLPE model with current traditional teaching practices, and to develop a paradigm better aligned with modern educational methods. The results revealed that based on constructivist learning theory and situational learning, technological enhancements, correct ethics, and the integration of OLPE resources could help advance the development of digital-physical education teaching. The study offers valuable insights into the challenges and disadvantages of OLPE in digital education. It will provide both theoretical and practical guidance for advancing digital teaching practices.
Anemonefish use sialic acid metabolism as Trojan horse to avoid giant sea anemone stinging
Authors: Roux Natacha , Delannoy Clément , Yu Shin-Yi , Miura Saori , Carlu Lilian , Besseau Laurence , Nakagawa Takahiro , Sato Chihiro , Kitajima Ken , Guerardel Yann , Laudet Vincent
Published: February 2025

Background

Anemonefish association with sea anemones is a prime example of mutualistic symbiosis. These fish live inside the sea anemone, benefitting from the protection of its toxic nematocysts, and in return, protect the anemone from its own predators. How anemonefish manage to avoid their host toxic stings remains unclear. One hypothesis suggests that low levels of sialic acids in anemonefish mucus prevent nematocyst discharge.

Results

This study verified four predictions: (i) anemonefish mucus has lower sialic acid levels than non-symbiotic damselfish; (ii) this reduction is specific to mucus; (iii) during development, sialic acid levels inversely correlate with protection; (iv) sea anemone mucus has minimal sialic acids.

Conclusions

We conclude that anemonefish regulates the level of sialic acids in their mucus to avoid nematocyst discharge. We also highlight several genes implicated in sialic acid removal that could explain the protection mechanisms in place. This mechanism, potentially used by Dascyllus trimaculatus juveniles, suggests a convergent strategy for mutualistic associations with sea anemones.
Assessing the adoption of biosecurity measures among extensive livestock producers: a case study in the free-range pig sector of Corsica
Authors: Loeillot Theo , Gisclard Marie , Trabucco Bastien , Charrier François , Jori Ferran , Antoine-Moussiaux Nicolas , Delabouglise Alexis
Published: February 2025

Background

Increasingly exposed to emerging sanitary risks, extensive livestock farming systems are confronted with the imperative of incorporating biosecurity measures in their production models in order to limit the risk of introduction and diffusion of animal pathogens. Yet, ex-ante assessment methods of the likelihood of biosecurity measures implementation are poorly documented. Our study aimed at comparing alternative methods of elicitation of preferences to assess the attitude of extensive livestock farmers towards biosecurity measures. We used, as a case study, the Regional Porcine Sanitary Plan (RPSP) elaborated for the free-range pig sector of Corsica Island to meet the newly established national disease prevention requirements of France in the face of risk of African Swine Fever introduction.

Methods

The RPSP imposed (1) a fencing of the breeding pigs’ area, (2) the neutering of the pigs not used for breeding, and (3) a management process of dead pigs’ carcasses found on pastures. We evaluated four attributes of the sanitary plan, including (1) proportion of the implementation cost covered by state subsidies, (2) mandatory carcass management, (3) people allowed to neuter gilts, (4) the age limit for neutering. We performed interviews of a sample of free-range pig farmers using three methods in parallel, namely (1) direct qualitative elicitation, (2) attributed-based stated choices and (3) semi-quantitative ranking of attributes.

Results

Farmers’ preference for a high subsidization of the sanitary plan and for enforcing the neutering of pigs at an early age was consistent across all used methods. Participants expressed heterogeneous preferences for the two other attributes. Half of the respondents were reluctant to entrust veterinarians with neutering gilts while the other half deemed veterinarians’ intervention compulsory. Contradictory preferences were obtained on rendering carcass management mandatory depending on the elicitation method.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates the added value of using choice-based methods, where respondents weigh the individual costs and benefits associated with different options, in combination with qualitative or semi-quantitative ranking methods in which farmers express their opinions and give more consideration to their community interest. It also reveals potential issues of heterogeneities among farmers’ preferences that need to be taken into consideration in similar surveys.
A surrogate in vitro experimental model for off-label drug repurposing: inhibitory effect of montelukast on bovine respiratory syncytial virus replication
Authors: Kurucay Hanne Nur , Yazici Zafer , Bayrakal Vahide , Muftuoglu Bahadir , Ozan Emre , Tamer Cuneyt , Gozel Seda , Barry Gerald , Igde Mahir , Okur-Gumusova Semra , Albayrak Harun , Elhag Ahmed Eisa , Baskin Huseyin
Published: February 2025

Background

Repurposing off-label drugs during epidemics or pandemics with unknown/known pathogens, particularly when their side effects and complications are already known, can be a strategic approach, as seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Developing surrogate in vitro experimental models (passage-to-passage), which mimic epidemic/pandemic-like transmission (human-to-human), may enhance this repurposing process. This study evaluates montelukast sodium (MLS), a US FDA-approved leukotriene receptor antagonist for asthma, to explore its potential repurposing antiviral effects against bovine respiratory syncytial virus (BRSV), which has basic similarities to human respiratory syncytial virus (HRSV) as both belong to the Pneumoviridae family.

Methods

An in vitro serial passage model was developed using MDBK cells infected with a local wild-type strain of BRSV (43TR2018). The cytotoxicity of MLS was assessed via the trypan blue exclusion method, identifying non-toxic concentrations. The impact of MLS on viral spread and infectivity was measured through TCID50 values over 10 passages. Viral loads were confirmed by nested RT-PCR and quantified using qPCR, while apoptosis, necrosis, and nitric oxide production were evaluated through staining and nitrite assays. Data were analyzed using ANOVA and Tukey's test (p < 0.05).

Results

Control cells exhibited 97.16% viability, with 10 µM and 20 µM MLS concentrations maintaining viabilities of 89.2% and 87.3%, respectively. Viral titers significantly decreased at higher concentrations of MLS (up to 99.94% inhibition). Apoptosis rates decreased in MLS-treated cells, and live cell percentages improved, especially at 20 µM. Nitric oxide levels showed no significant differences across groups.

Conclusion

MLS demonstrated a dose-dependent antiviral effect against BRSV, achieving 99% viral inhibition properties in MDBK cells. These promising results warrant further investigation into the antiviral mechanisms of MLS.
Congenital unilateral pericardial agenesis presenting as an isolated chest pain in an adolescent: a case report and comprehensive review
Authors: Jafari Farshad , Taheri Maryam , Ebrahimi Pouya , Soflaee Maedeh , Rafie Reyhaneh Alipore , Anafje Mohsen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Congenital pericardial agenesis is a rare congenital anomaly resulting from the incomplete development of the pleuropericardial membranes during embryogenesis, leading to the partial or complete absence of the pericardial sac. Although this condition usually remains asymptomatic, it can present with various misleading symptoms such as chest pain (add some other, maybe 2, more prevalent presenting symptoms), making diagnosis challenging. Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for accurate diagnosis and management, especially when usual diagnostic modalities do not achieve a definite diagnosis.

Case presentation

The history and diagnostic process of a 16-year-old female who presented with isolated, non-exertional chest pain are detailed. A comprehensive diagnostic work-up was initiated, including chest X-ray (CXR), transthoracic echocardiogram (TTE), CT angiography (CTA), and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMRI). These advanced imaging modalities unveiled the rare and elusive diagnosis of left-sided pericardial agenesis, decisively ruling out other potential causes and shedding light on an extraordinary case that challenges conventional diagnostic pathways.

Conclusion

Unilateral pericardial agenesis, though typically benign and often shrouded in clinical obscurity, can manifest with enigmatic symptoms such as isolated chest pain, necessitating a meticulous and comprehensive diagnostic approach. Multimodal imaging is essential for accurate diagnosis and for ruling out complications such as cardiac herniation or coronary artery compression. Considering the absence of significant complications, conservative management was chosen in this case, with the patient being discharged with instructions to monitor for any warning signs.

Clinical key message

Clinicians should consider congenital pericardial agenesis as one of the potential causes of unexplained chest pain, particularly when the initial investigations are inconclusive. Advanced imaging techniques (such as CXR and MRI) are vital for confirming the diagnosis and subsequently appropriate and timely management and preventing potential complications.
Refined variant calling pipeline on RNA-seq data of breast cancer cell lines without matched-normal samples
Authors: Eberth Sonja , Koblitz Julia , Steenpaß Laura , Pommerenke Claudia
Published: February 2025

Objective

RNA-seq delivers valuable insights both to transcriptional patterns and mutational landscapes for transcribed genes. However, as tumour cell lines frequently lack their matched-normal counterpart, variant calling without the paired normal sample is still challenging. In order to exclude variants of common genetic variation without a matched-normal control, filtering strategies need to be developed to identify tumour relevant variants in cell lines.

Results

Here, variants of 29 breast cancer cell lines were called on RNA-seq data via HaplotypeCaller. Low read depth sites, RNA-edit sites, and low complexity regions in coding regions were excluded. Common variants were filtered using 1000 genomes, gnomAD, and dbSNP data. Starting from hundred thousands of single nucleotide variants and small insertions and deletions, about thousand variants remained after filtering for each sample. Extracted variants were validated against the Catalogue of Somatic Mutations in Cancer (COSMIC) for 10 cell lines included in both data sets. Approximately half of the COSMIC variants were successfully called. Importantly, missing variants could mainly be attributed to sites with low read depth. Moreover, filtered variants also included all 10 cancer gene census COSMIC variants, a condensed hallmark variant set.
ROASMI: accelerating small molecule identification by repurposing retention data
Authors: Sun Fang-Yuan , Yin Ying-Hao , Liu Hui-Jun , Shen Lu-Na , Kang Xiu-Lin , Xin Gui-Zhong , Liu Li-Fang , Zheng Jia-Yi
Published: February 2025

The limited replicability of retention data hinders its application in untargeted metabolomics for small molecule identification. While retention order models hold promise in addressing this issue, their predictive reliability is limited by uncertain generalizability. Here, we present the ROASMI model, which enables reliable prediction of retention order within a well-defined application domain by coupling data-driven molecular representation and mechanistic insights. The generalizability of ROASMI is proven by 71 independent reversed-phase liquid chromatography (RPLC) datasets. The application of ROASMI to four real-world datasets demonstrates its advantages in distinguishing coexisting isomers with similar fragmentation patterns and in annotating detection peaks without informative spectra. ROASMI is flexible enough to be retrained with user-defined reference sets and is compatible with other MS/MS scorers, making further improvements in small-molecule identification.
IHCH9033, a novel class I HDAC inhibitor, synergizes with FLT3 inhibitor and rescues quizartinib resistance in FLT3-ITD AML via enhancing DNA damage response
Authors: Yao Mingyue , Yan Wenzhong , Wang Yafang , Zhao Yu , Xu Xiaowei , Chen Yujun , Yu Chengcheng , Li Yingnian , Jiang Hualiang , Shen Jie , Cheng Jianjun , Xie Chengying
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite initial success with FLT3 inhibitors (FLT3is), outcomes for FLT3-ITD acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patients remain unsatisfactory, underscoring the need for more effective treatment options. Epigenetic modifications, such as histone acetylation, contribute to AML’s onset and persistence, advocating the potential for epigenetic therapies. However, the poor specificity of pan-histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACis) leads to undesirable adverse effects, prompting the need for isoform-specific HDACis. This study aims to explore the antileukemic activities and mechanisms of IHCH9033, a novel class I HDACi, alone or combined with FLT3i in FLT3-ITD AML.

Methods

The viability of AML cell lines and primary AML cells treated with HDACis alone or in combination with FLT3i was detected by MTT or CCK8 assay. Flow cytometry was utilized to examine cell apoptosis, cell cycle progression and ROS production. RNA sequencing analysis, RT-qPCR, western blotting, and co-immunoprecipitation assays were employed to elucidate the molecule mechanisms. The in vivo anti-leukemia efficacy was tested in xenografted mice models derived from FLT3-ITD cell lines and primary AML patients.

Results

Here, we identified IHCH9033, a novel selective class I HDACi, which exhibited an increased antitumor effect in FLT3-ITD AML through effectively eliminating leukemia burden and overcoming resistance to FLT3i. Mechanically, IHCH9033 selectively inhibited DNA repair in FLT3-ITD AML cells, leading to the accumulation of DNA damage that eventually resulted in cell cycle arrest and apoptosis. Additionally, IHCH9033 induced HSP90 acetylation, FLT3 ubiquitination, and proteasomal degradation of FLT3, thereby inhibiting FLT3 downstream signaling. Notably, IHCH9033 maintained its potency in both FLT3i-resistant AML cell lines and primary-resistant patient samples, and exerted strong synergy with the FLT3i quizartinib, leading to tumor regression in FLT3-ITD/TKD AML xenografts. In patient-derived xenografts, the treatment with IHCH9033, both alone and in combination, led to nearly complete eradication of the AML burden, without significant adverse effects.

Conclusions

Our study shows that IHCH9033, a novel class I HDACi with a desirable pharmacological profile, is a promising drug candidate for FLT3-ITD AML, and suggests a strategy of combining class I HDACis and FLT3is in AML clinical trials to increase efficacy and overcome resistance, thus potentially providing a curative treatment option.
Recent advances in CMOS-compatible synthesis and integration of 2D materials
Authors: Katiyar Ajit Kumar , Choi Jonggyu , Ahn Jong-Hyun
Published: February 2025

The upcoming generation of functional electronics in the era of artificial intelligence, and IoT requires extensive data storage and processing, necessitating further device miniaturization. Conventional Si CMOS technology is struggling to enhance integration density beyond a certain limit to uphold Moore’s law, primarily due to performance degradation at smaller dimensions caused by various physical effects, including surface scattering, quantum tunneling, and other short-channel effects. The two-dimensional materials have emerged as highly promising alternatives, which exhibit excellent electrical and mechanical properties at atomically thin thicknesses and show exceptional potential for future CMOS technology. This review article presents the chronological progress made in the development of two-dimensional materials-based CMOS devices with comprehensively discussing the advancements made in material production, device development, associated challenges, and the strategies to address these issues. The future prospects for the use of two-dimensional materials in functional CMOS circuitry are outlooked, highlighting key opportunities and challenges toward industrial adaptation.

Graphical Abstract