bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prognostic value of semi-quantitative score based on 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT in Chinese pediatric patients with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma after induction chemotherapy
Authors: wang xiaoya , Wang Guanyun , Zhou Ziang , Zhang Keyu , Kan Ying , Yang Jigang
Published: November 2024

Background
As Curie score derived from 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT exhibits superior accuracy while maintaining excellent concordance with the gold standard compared to planar imaging, our study aimed to assess the prognostic value of a semi-quantitative scoring system based on 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT imaging for predicting outcomes in Chinese pediatric patients with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma following induction chemotherapy.
Results
We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of 116 pediatric patients diagnosed with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma who underwent induction chemotherapy followed by 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT imaging in our department. The optimal cut-off value for the Curie score after induction was determined to be 6 based on the Youden index. Cox multifactorial analysis revealed that Curie score > 6, presence of neuroblastoma pathology, MYCN amplification and 11q23 aberration could serve as independent predictors of progression-free survival (PFS). Children with Curie scores > 6 (n = 29) after induction had significantly lower progression-free survival compared to those with Curie scores ≤ 6 (n = 87) (1-year PFS: 55.2%±9.2% vs. 79.3%±4.3%, 3-year PFS: 15.1%±8.3% vs. 54.7%±5.9%, P < 0.001). For children with/without MYCN-amplified and 11q23 aberration neuroblastoma, higher Curie scores (> 6) were associated with significantly worse outcomes. But for children without 11q23 aberration neuroblastoma, there was no significant difference in Curie score after induction.
Conclusions
The present study proposes that the Curie score, derived from 123I-MIBG SPECT/CT imaging following induction chemotherapy, exhibits a robust correlation with the prognosis of Chinese pediatric patients diagnosed with MIBG avid stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma. Specifically, patients achieving a CS of 6 or lower after induction chemotherapy demonstrate enhanced benefits from consolidation and maintenance treatment regimens. Consequently, further investigation is warranted to explore individualized therapeutic approaches for Chinese pediatric patients afflicted with stage 4 high-risk neuroblastoma.
Enhancing Maize Production in Mali: The Role of Fertilizer Microdosing and Mechanization in Improving Yield, Economic Returns, and Reducing Labor Use
Authors: Woumou Kamkam , Coulibaly Adama , Aune Jens B.
Published: November 2024

The objectives of this study were to determine the optimal maize NPK microdosing rate in Mali and compare labor requirements for mechanized versus manual sowing and fertilization across three locations with varying rainfall. The treatments included five microdosing rates, ranging from zero to 93 kg NPK/ha (3 g NPK/hill), and the recommended rate of 100 kg NPK/ha applied by row application. All treatments also received an additional 150 kg urea/ha. Grain yield increased with application rates up to 93 kg/ha, resulting in a 1029 kg/ha (61.3%) increase compared to the control. The 63 kg NPK/ha microdosing rate resulted in a yield and economic return comparable to the application of 100 kg NPK/ha using row placement. The profitability of fertilizer use was evaluated by analyzing scenarios with both unfavorable and favorable ratios between fertilizer costs and grain prices. The 78.1 kg NPK/ha microdosing rate gave the highest average gross margin and VCR across the two price scenarios. The value-cost ratio was above the critical threshold of two in all fertilizer treatments, even under an unfavorable fertilizer-to-grain price ratio. Therefore, the risk associated with fertilizer use in maize is low, even if only non-subsidized fertilizer is available. The labour study showed that the manual application of seeds and microdosing of fertilizer averaged 11.4 man-days/ha, compared to 1.0 man-days/ha for the corresponding mechanized operation. Farmers will, therefore, not be likely to practice microdosing unless the operation is mechanized.
Efficacy and safety of non-ablative ErYAG laser for mild to moderate stress urinary incontinence: a prospective, multicenter, randomized, sham controlled clinical trial
Authors: Wang Xin , zhang Zhipeng , Meng Lifeng , Xu Shengfei , Zheng Jiqiong , Wang Hui , Lv Jianwei , zhang Zhengwang , Yuan Xiaoyi , Zhang Yaoguang
Published: November 2024

This study evaluated the efficacy and safety of a non-ablative vaginal Er: YAG laser device in treating stress urinary incontinence (SUI). We conducted a prospective, multicenter, randomized, sham-controlled clinical trial in which women with SUI received either active arm treatment using Er: YAG laser therapy or a control arm using a sham handpiece. Patients underwent three treatments spaced one month apart. The primary endpoint measure was the treatment success rate at three months post-treatment. A total of 126 participants with SUI were recruited, with 84 in the active arm and 42 in the sham arm. One participant in the sham arm was excluded due to not using research instruments. The treatment success rate at three months after treatment was observed in 36.59% of the sham arm and 71.43% of the active arm (OR 34.8%, 95% CI: 17.2 ~ 52.5%). Incontinence quality of life questionnaire (I-QOL) score and incontinence questionnaire short form (ICIQ-SF) score demonstrated significant improvement in the active arm compared to the sham arm. Non-ablative vaginal ErYAG laser therapy demonstrated a significant improvement in SUI symptoms compared to sham treatment. Er: YAG laser therapy should be considered as a non-surgical treatment option for SUI patients.
Facilitators of good consultations in primary health care clinics in Botswana: a qualitative study of patients’ and doctors’ views.
Authors: Setlhare Vincent , Madiba Sphiwe
Published: November 2024

Background:
The behaviours and attributes of doctors affect the quality of consultations. Although good consultations improve the quality of care, there is a dearth of evidence on factors that facilitate good consultations.
Aim:
This study explored factors that facilitate good consultations in public primary healthcare (PHC) clinics from the perspective of doctors and patients.
Setting:
We conducted the study in public (PHC) clinics in four health districts of Botswana. Patients with a wide range of acute and chronic diseases sought health care from these clinics. Nurses, pharmacists, and non-specialist doctors were some of the healthcare (HCWs) who gave services to these patients.
Methods:
This was a qualitative study in which audiotaped structured interviews were used to collect data, until saturation.
Results:
Seventeen purposively selected doctors and 32 patients participated in this study. Data were analysed for themes.
Participants thought the facilitators of good consultations were, creating a conducive environment for the consultation, enough time provision for the consultation, continuity of care, effective communication, and creating an environment to maintain confidentiality. Facilitators of a good consultation were influenced by health system factors such as clinic factors, high doctor workload, and high patient volumes. We further surmised that thefacilitators of a good consultation do not act independently but influence each other, in a complex health system of interacting components.
Conclusion:
Facilitators of a good consultation were creating a conducive environment for the consultation, providing enough time for the consultation, continuity of care, effective communication, and ensuring privacy and confidentiality. These facilitators interact and are subsumed in a complex interactive health system of many contributing factors. Facilitators of good consultations, improve the quality of care and health outcomes. However good consultations are a result of facilitators of good consultations that are undergirded by many other necessary health system factors.
Clinical Outcome of Children with Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis: A Cohort Study
Authors: Motazedian Nasrin , Dehghani Seyed Mohsen , Shamsaeefar Alireza , Kazemi Kourosh , Ghorbanpour Ali , Sayadi Mehrab , Ataollahi Maryam , Nikeghbalian Saman
Published: November 2024

Background: Progressive Familial Intrahepatic Cholestasis (PFIC) is a rare genetic liver disorder characterized by cholestasis and progressive liver damage, often leading to cirrhosis and liver transplantation. Understanding the clinical course and outcomes of PFIC is crucial for improving management strategies, particularly in resource-limited settings like Iran.
This study aimed to assess the clinical outcomes and survival rates of children with PFIC in Iran, emphasizing the importance of early diagnosis and liver transplantation.
Methods: This cohort study is part of the Shiraz Pediatric Liver Cirrhosis Cohort Study (SPLCCS), initiated in 2018. Data were collected on demographic characteristics, clinical features, and laboratory findings. Cox regression analysis was employed to identify risk factors for mortality.
Results: Out of 100 PFIC cases, 35% of the children died, with younger age at diagnosis and higher Pediatric End-Stage Liver Disease (PELD) scores associated with increased mortality risk. Liver transplantation (LTx) was performed in 50% of the cohort, with survival rates of 74%, 70%, and 66% at 12, 24, and 60 months, respectively, post-transplant. Higher white blood cells (WBC), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), and direct bilirubin levels were also significant predictors of mortality.
Conclusions: Early diagnosis and liver transplantation are critical for improving survival in children with PFIC. High PELD scores, WBC, AST, and bilirubin levels are associated with increased mortality risk, emphasizing the need for early intervention and regular monitoring.
Retinal Fundus Imaging as a Biomarker for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder: Machine Learning for Screening and Visual Attention Stratification
Authors: Choi Hangnyoung , Hong JaeSeong , Kang Hyun Goo , Park Min-Hyeon , Ha Sungji , Lee Junghan , Yoon Sangchul , Kim Daeseong , Park Yu Rang , Cheon Keun-Ah
Published: November 2024

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), characterized by diagnostic complexity and symptom heterogeneity, is a prevalent neurodevelopmental disorder. In this study, we explored the machine learning analysis of retinal fundus photographs as a novel, noninvasive biomarker for ADHD screening and stratification of executive function (EF) deficits. Children and adolescents (<19 years) with ADHD (n=323) were recruited from two tertiary South Korean hospitals between April and October 2022. Retinal photographs of age- and sex-matched individuals with typical development were retrospectively collected. Individuals with major psychiatric disorders, neurological illnesses, and eye diseases affecting the retinal fundus were excluded. Retinal features were extracted using AutoMorph. Machine learning models for ADHD screening and EF subdomain prediction were developed using the comprehensive attention test. Model performance was evaluated via five-fold cross-validation with metrics including the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), sensitivity, and specificity. Feature importance was assessed using the Shapely additive explanation method. We analyzed 1,108 fundus photographs from 648 participants (mean age 9.5 years, 77.1% boys). ADHD screening models achieved 0.955–0.969 AUROC values, with vessel density as the most important feature. For EF function stratification, the visual and auditory subdomains showed strong (AUROC >0.85) and poor performances, respectively. Machine learning analysis of retinal fundus photographs demonstrated potential as a noninvasive biomarker for ADHD screening and EF deficit stratification in the visual attention domain. Furthermore, alterations in the retinal vascular structure and optic disc characteristics indicate a neurodevelopmental process affecting both cerebral and retinal structures, potentially reflecting systemic changes in ADHD. Our findings may guide the development of innovative screening tools and personalized treatment approaches. However, further research across diverse populations and age groups is necessary to validate these findings before clinical implementation.
The impact of a 1 mm interimplant distance on the interproximal crestal bone height. A case report with a 10-year follow-up and literature review
Authors: Schwarz David Morales , Szmukler-Moncler Serge , Melendez Hilde Morales , Beuer Florian
Published: November 2024

Background Between adjacent dental implants, an interimplant distance (IID) of at least 3 mm has been recommended to avoid resorbing the interproximal crestal bone. The effect of a 2 mm IID on crestal bone loss has been investigated but the literature is scarce when it comes to an IID of 1 mm. There is a need to document such clinical situations when they occur and elucidate if such a narrow IID is deleterious or not to the interproximal crest. The present case deals with an IID of 1 mm in the premolar area where, for the first time, the fate of an interimplant crest is reported after a 10-year follow-up.Case presentation : A 57-year-old patient attended with 2 hopeless maxillary premolars. The mesio-distal space available for implant rehabilitation was too narrow to receive standard diameter implants and keep an inter-implant distance (IID) of 3 mm as recommended by accepted guidelines. A protocol of immediate implant placement and provisionalization involving 2 implants of Ø 3.5 mm was implemented; placement in the extraction sockets resulted in an IID of 1 mm. After 3 months of healing the final prosthesis was delivered; the patient has been followed for 10 years now. Surprisingly, the findings showed that the interimplant crest was maintained 1.40 mm coronal to the shoulder of the neck of the implants. Bone completely filled the space between the prosthetic concave abutments and the interproximal papilla was closing the embrasure. The literature reports only 2 experimental studies involving a 1 mm IID; both showed that this did not lead to the resorption of the interproximal bone.Conclusions Unexpectedly, the present case with an IID of 1 mm did not lead to the resorption of the interproximal bone after 10 years. It is speculated that the reason for that is due to the implants displaying an internal conical connection, the platform-switching feature, concave abutments and subcrestal placement. The fate of the interproximal crest of implants placed with an IID of 1 mm lacks scientific evidence. More studies are warranted to elucidate this question in order to propose the best implant treatment in cases displaying a limited mesio-distal space.
Association of dietary lecithin intake with MCI risk and cognitive performance in elderly population
Authors: Qi Chengyan , Shen Jing , Ding Huini , Li Dajun , Wang Wenjing , Fu Yuebao , Liu Yijia , Xi Yuandi , Xiao Rong
Published: November 2024

Background
This study aims to explore the relationship between dietary lecithin intake and cognitive function and the development and progression of Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) in the elderly over 60 years old.
Methods
The research undertaken included a cohort of 1917 participants aged over 60. Body composition was evaluated through bioelectrical impedance analysis. Cognitive function and dietary intake were assessed using neuropsychological tests and a food frequency questionnaire. Spearman correlation analysis, multiple linear regression, logistic regression, and receiver operating characteristic curves were employed to elucidate the relationship of dietary lecithin on MoCA (Montreal Cognitive Assessment) score and the risk of MCI and predictive effect.
Results
Of 1917 participants enrolled, 1023 (53.4%) had MCI and 542 (53.0%) were women. After adjusting for multiple confounders, multiple linear regression showed that after dichotomizing lecithin and serum cholesterol indicators according to the median, high levels of lecithin, TC(Total Cholesterol) and low levels of LDL-C(Low density lipoprotein cholesterol)/HDL-C(High density lipoprotein cholesterol) were associated with higher MoCA; logistic regression showed that compared with low intake level, the odds ratio (95% CI) of MCI risk in high dietary lecithin intake group was 0.80(0.64,0.99). The results of ROC curve showed that the model had a good predictive effect on MCI.
Conclusions
Higher dietary lecithin intake was associated with better performance on cognitive assessments and diminished risk of MCI among the elderly population aged 60 and above. It possesses the capabilities to function as prospective biomarkers that may indicate an increased risk of cognitive decline among the elderly demographic.
Implicit Bias in ICU Electronic Health Record Data Measurement Frequencies and Missingness Rates of Clinical Variables
Authors: Shi Junming Seraphina , Hubbard Alan E. , Fong Nicholas , Pirracchio Romain
Published: November 2024

Background:
Disparities in data collection within electronic health records (EHRs), especially in Intensive Care Units (ICUs), can reveal underlying biases that may affect patient outcomes. Identifying and mitigating these biases is critical for ensuring equitable healthcare. This study aims to develop an analytical framework for measurement patterns, including missingness rates and measurement frequencies, evaluate the association between them and demographic factors, and assess their impact on in-hospital mortality prediction.
Methods:
We conducted a retrospective cohort study using the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care III (MIMIC-III) database, which includes data on over 40,000 ICU patients from Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (2001–2012). Adult patients with ICU stays longer than 24 hours were included. Measurement patterns, such as missingnessrates and measurement frequencies, were derived from EHR data and analyzed. Targeted Machine Learning (TML) methods were used to assess potential biases in measurement patterns across demographic factors (age, gender, race/ethnicity) while controlling for confounders such as other demographics and disease severity. The predictive power of measurement patterns on in-hospital mortality was evaluated.
Results:
Among 23,426 patients, significant demographic disparities were observed in the first 24 hours of ICU stays. Elderly patients (≥ 65 years) had more frequent temperature measurements compared to younger patients, while males had slightly fewer missing temperature measurements than females. Racial disparities were notable: White patients had more frequent blood pressure and oxygen saturation (SpO2) measurements compared to Black and Hispanic patients. Measurement patterns were associated with ICU mortality, with models based solely on these patterns achieving an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) of 0.76 (95% CI: 0.74–0.77).
Conclusions:
This study underscores the significance of measurement patterns in ICU EHR data, which are associated with patient demographics and ICU mortality. Analyzing patterns of missing data and measurement frequencies provides valuable insights into patient monitoring practices and potential biases in healthcare delivery. Understanding these disparities is critical for improving the fairness of healthcare delivery and developing more accurate predictive models in critical care settings.
Relevance, Potentials and Success Factors of Regional Multi-Stakeholder Cooperation for Corporate Decarbonization – Evidence from German Business
Authors: Raupach-Sumiya Jörg
Published: November 2024

Background
A growing number of companies worldwide develop proactive strategies for climate protection. These efforts for corporate decarbonization are frequently embedded in the transformation of entire sectors and infrastructures. However, such transformative processes inevitably impact on local communities and lead to growing interdependencies between companies and multiple local stakeholders. While these interdependencies create a compelling case for regional multi-stakeholder cooperation, management-oriented research has hitherto neglected the regional dimension of multi-stakeholder cooperation and its benefits for corporate decarbonization.
Results
This research introduces a framework and taxonomy enabling us to identify suitable forms, potential areas and success factors for collaborative approaches to corporate climate protection at local level. Presenting the results of an in-depth study on German business, this paper shows that regional multi-stakeholder cooperation is increasingly recognized as a critical dimension of corporate strategies for climate protection. The acknowledged need for transformative change constitutes the overarching common purpose for such collaborative approaches. Infrastructure-related areas such as energy, mobility, or industrial and commercial district development emerge as particularly meaningful fields for regional cooperation. The study finds that a competently managed, institutionalized multi-stakeholder network; implementation-oriented joint projects; and the empowerment of regional managers to act as local change agents are the key ingredients for effective regional cooperation benefitting corporate decarbonization.
Conclusion
The study argues that regional multi-stakeholder cooperation is still a neglected but essential strategic dimension for corporate decarbonization. Effective collaborative corporate strategies for climate protection at local level require the systematic integration of this dimension into prevailing management practices, processes and tools inside their organizations. Corporate leaders need to demonstrate a strong sense of agency to champion transformative change at local level.
The virome investigation of the globally endangered Eld's deer (Rucervus eldii) on Hainan Island, China
Authors: Su Haoxiang , Zheng Dandan , Li Zihan , Qi Xuming , Chang Yunxing , Ren Guangxu , Lu Qingqing , Li Jiaqi , Li Yu , Tian Chuan , Peng Ruoyan , Wang Gaoyu , Hu Xiaoyuan , Huang Yi , Tang Chuanning , Cui Xiuji , Niu Lina , Zhao Mingming , Tan Xianghui , Dong Jie , Yang Jian , Yang Fan , Yin Feifei , Li Youyou , Lu Gang , Zhang Yun
Published: November 2024

More than 60% of emerging (re-emerging) infectious diseases worldwide are caused by animal-derived pathogens, of which 71% are of wild animal origin. It is important to obtain insight into the viral pathogens present in the wildlife reservoir from a public health perspective. Based on next-generation sequencing (NGS), we report a metagenomic viral survey of Eld's deer (Rucervus eldii) (n = 33) in Bangxi Provincial Nature Reserve in Hainan Province. We collected 33 nasal swabs, 33 anal swabs, and 9 tick bite wound swabs and combined them into 5 pools according to the type of swabs. The metagenomic analysis showed that there were differences in the 5pools of viral reads, but the overall viral reads were closely related to mammals. We amplified and obtained the complete genomes of novel papillomaviruses (PV) and circoviruses (CV) in Eld's deer, PsPV-HMU-1 and PsaCV-HMU-1. The novel PV and CV genomic structure revealed that it was consistent with that of the known mammalian PV and CV. The L1 of PsPV-HMU-1 and the rep of PsaCV-HMU-1 showed less than 77.20% and 45.43% amino acid homology with the closest viruses, respectively. The positive rate of PV carried by Eld's deer is relatively high. Multiple Eld's deer with positive nase or anal swabs, accompanied by positive swabs from tick bites and wounds, indicate that insect bites may be closely related viral infection. This study helps us monitor Eld's deer viral diseases and understand the genetic diversity and evolutionary history of FV and CV carried by Eld's deer.
Credit and Municipal Agricultural Production in the Northeast: a Spatial Econometric Approach
Authors: Filho Luis Abel da Silva , Alves Denis Fernandes , Barbosa Ana Claudia Felipe , Lima Maria Messias Ferreira
Published: November 2024

The mechanisms of reach and the expansion of credit granted to Brazilian agriculture have become determinants of production in the sector on a national scale. Thus, this study aims to analyze the effects of agricultural credit on the gross value of agricultural production (GDP) in the Northeast region. Through an exploratory analysis of spatial data and spatial econometrics, it is possible to verify the significant and positive impact of credit, both granted through the Constitutional Financing Funds and the National Development Bank (BNDES), on the GDP of agriculture in the Northeast. The Durbin Spatial Model of Error (SDEM) was estimated and chosen from the tests of Robust Lagrange Multipliers, the Moran Index of the residuals under randomization, and the Monte Carlo simulation of Moran's I. The results unequivocally demonstrate that credit, along with the amount of rainfall, the number of agricultural pieces of machinery, and the use of fertilizer in the soil, has positively impacted the agricultural GDP in the northeastern municipalities over the years analyzed. These findings have significant implications for the agricultural sector, particularly in the Northeast region, and can inform policy and practice.
Sensitive fluorescent probe for Al 3+ , Cr 3+ and Fe 3+ : application in real water samples and logic gate
Authors: Lin Ziyun , Shi Yu , Song Yanxi , Yan Jiabao , Li Hongqi , Xie Chengxiao
Published: November 2024

Construction of single probes for simultaneous detection of common trivalent metal ions has attracted much attention due to higher efficiency in analysis and cost. A naphthalimide-based fluorescent probe K1 was synthesized for selective detection of Al3+, Cr3+ and Fe3+ ions. Fluorescence emission intensity at 534 nm of probe K1 in DMSO/H2O (9:1, v/v) was significantly enhanced upon addition of Al3+, Cr3+ and Fe3+ ions while addition of other metal ions (Li+, Na+, K+, Ag+, Cu2+, Fe2+, Zn2+, Co2+, Ni2+, Mn2+, Sr2+, Hg2+, Ca2+, Mg2+, Ce3+, Bi3+ and Au3+) did not bring about substantial change in fluorescence emission. The calculated detection limits were 0.32 µM, 0.81 µM, and 0.27 µM for Al3+, Cr3+, and Fe3+, respectively. Probe K1 displayed strong anti-interference ability, a large Stokes shift, rapid response, and applicability in a wide pH range for the simultaneous detection of Al3+, Cr3+ and Fe3+ in real water samples. Job's plot test showed that the stoichiometric ratio of the complexes formed between probe K1 and the trivalent metal ions was 1:1. The reversible application of probe K1 was realized by addition of Na2EDTA. A molecular logic gate was built based on the input-output information. This approach may provide a basis for highly selective and sensitive detection of common trivalent cations and for design of memory devices.
Sequential infiltration of Th17 cells into the substantia nigra in a primate model of Parkinson's disease
Authors: Seo Jincheol , Nguyen Thanh Thi Hai , Won Jinyoung , Jeon Chang-Yeop , Baek Seung Ho , Park Junghyung , Seong Jung Bae , Yeo Hyeon-Gu , Kim Keonwoo , Gwon Lee Wha , Kim Minji , Kim Yu Gyeong , Lee Sang-Woo , Jung Yunkyo , Min Jisun , Choi Won Seok , Huh Jae-Won , Lim Kyung Seob , Lee Youngjeon
Published: November 2024

Parkinson’s disease (PD) is characterized by the progressive degeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra (SN). Recent studies have focused on the dysregulation of CD4+ T cell subsets, including Th17 cells, with nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurodegeneration in PD. Nonetheless, the mechanisms behind the sequential and sustained infiltration of these T cell subsets into the brain during PD progression are not well understood. This study aimed to elucidate the long-term infiltration patterns of Th1, Th2, and Th17 cells in the SN during PD progression. After injecting cynomolgus monkeys with 1-methyl-4-phenyl-1,2,3,6-tetrahydropyridine (MPTP) to develop a non-human primate model of PD, we observed dopaminergic neuronal loss and infiltration patterns of CD4+ T cell subsets in the SN at early, intermediate, and late phases. Th17 cells were observed to infiltrate immediately during the early phase, unlike the delayed infiltration observed for Th1 and Th2 cells. Notably, the early phase infiltration of Th17 cells coincides with the rapid degeneration of dopaminergic neurons. Furthermore, the physical proximity between Th17 lymphocytes and a decreased number of dopaminergic neurons was observed in the SN after MPTP injection. This study reinforces that Th17 cells are associated with neurodegeneration of dopaminergic neurons in the onset of PD.
Comparative Cost Analysis for Bore Hole and Bark Streak Tapping Methods in Resin Production from Pinus brutia
Authors: Caglayan İnci , Kabak Özgür , Sarı İrem Uçal
Published: November 2024

This study assesses the economic and technical feasibility of two resin extraction methods, Bore Hole Tapping (BH) and Bark Streak Tapping (BS), applied to Pinus brutia in the Korudağ Forest, Turkey. Resin production from 758 trees was analyzed over six months to compare setup costs, operational expenses, labor costs, and yields. Additionally, a feasibility study involving 2500 trees was conducted to evaluate market, technical, and financial aspects. Results show that both methods incur high production costs, making resin production economically unviable under current market conditions. The BH method is particularly unfeasible due to significant initial investments and high operating costs. In contrast, the BS method, with lower costs, approaches viability at historically higher resin prices. Sensitivity analyses suggest that the BS method could become feasible with a significant rise in market prices. However, resin production from Pinus brutia remains economically unfeasible at present.
Spatio-temporal patterns of defoliation in agro-forestry Quercus ilex L. systems
Authors: González Isabel , Oliveira Nerea , Alberdi Iciar , Adame Patricia , Fuertes Alicia , Cañellas Isabel , Moreno-Fernández Daniel
Published: November 2024

Agroforestry systems such as oak dehesas face increased vulnerability due to the abandonment of sustainable practices, extreme droughts, and emerging pathogens. Despite the adaptability of the holm oak (Quercus ilex L.) to adverse conditions, signs of deterioration such as defoliation, reduced growth, and increased mortality have been observed in recent years. This study aims to evaluate the temporal dynamics of defoliation in Q. ilex dehesa systems distributed across western Spain. Furthermore, we aim to study the potential effects of climate and site conditions on defoliation in Q. ilex stands. Defoliation was analyzed over a 31-year period (1987–2018) in 254 monitoring plots, examining correlations with site variables (elevation, latitude, slope, orientation, soil texture, nitrogen, and carbon) and climate factors (temperature, precipitation). Average defoliation ranged from 17.9–21.5%, with northern Q. ilex dehesas in cooler, wetter regions exhibiting less defoliation than southern populations in harsher environments. Between 1987 and 1998, defoliation increased markedly across the region, especially in northern dehesas (up to an 88% rise), compared to a 40–50% increase at more favorable sites. Defoliation was negatively correlated with soil nitrogen content, latitude, and elevation, and positively correlated with clay content and average annual temperature. Therefore, the forecasted harsher climatic conditions may contribute to increased defoliation of entire populations of Q. ilex growing in dehesas. This could threaten the persistence of these agroforestry systems and the ecosystem services provided by them, especially in the southern populations.
Crystal structure of anthracen-9-yl(3,6-dimethoxynaphthalen-2-yl)methanone: Decisive factors for formation of two-fold helical molecular assemblies in three directions affording chiral crystal
Authors: Li Kun , Iitsuka Hiroaki , Tsumuki Takehiro , Noguchi Keiichi , Yonezawa Noriyuki , Okamoto Akiko
Published: November 2024

The titled compound of 3-(anthracen-9-carbonylated) 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene, anthracen-9-yl(3,6-dimethoxynaphthalen-2-yl)methanone, affords as chiral crystals belonging to P212121 space group. To investigate the leading factors of chiral supramolecular crystallisation, the crystal structural characteristics of the titled compound were compared with the two homologous 3-aroylated 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene compounds, 3-benzoylated and 3-(1-naphthoylated) derivatives, giving achiral crystals of P21/c space group, along with their mother skeleton molecule of 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene, which also gives chiral crystals with P212121 space group. The spatial features of single molecular crystal structure, molecular accumulation fashion, non-covalent bonding interactions, and proximity of molecules in crystal have been measured among four compounds. In the crystalline single molecular structure of the titled 9-anthracenecarbonyl compound, the 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene ring connects to the ketonic carbonyl moiety with almost perpendicular fashion and anthracene ring connects to the ketonic carbonyl moiety with a nearly coplanar alignment. On the other hand, in the crystalline single molecular structures of the benzoylated and naphthoylated homologues, the ketonic carbonyl groups connect to arene rings with moderate twist angles. In crystal packings of the benzoylated and 1-naphthoylated homologues, the centrosymmetric dimeric aggregations with pairs of complementary non-classical hydrogen bonds are observed. The titled compound is observed to form two-fold helical molecular assemblies with non-classical hydrogen bonds along a-axis. Hirshfeld surface analysis has emphasised that these packing motifs afford different effects to the molecular packing. The titled anthroylated compound has the largest number of molecules in close proximity among three compounds. The crystal structures of the four compounds including non-aroylated 2,7-dimethoxynaphthalene from the viewpoint of formation potential of chiral crystal have been interpreted by the transition of the types and ratio of the effective non-classical hydrogen bonds functioning inter- and intramolecular modes under the prior influence led by ketonic carbonyl group participating interactions.
A Source Model for Volcanic Explosions and its Influence on Lamb Wave Wavelengths: Insights from the 2022 Hunga Tonga Eruption
Authors: Ponomarev Oleg
Published: November 2024

Using the dimensional analysis a novel model for shock wave generation during explosive volcanic eruptions is proposed. A relationship between the parameters of the shock wave in the vicinity of the source and those of the atmospheric Lamb wave is established, offering an explanation for the phenomenon of longer-than-expected periods in volcanic Lamb waves, first observed following the 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helen's. Differences between atmospheric Lamb waves generated by volcanic explosive eruptions and thermonuclear tests are studied. Additionally, based on the proposed model, a method for estimating the composition of volcanic gases based solely on observational data from points distant from the epicenter is derived. The model's consistency with observational data is demonstrated through a comparison with barographic measurements from the January 15, 2022, Hunga-Tonga eruption, provided by Albuquerque Seismological Laboratory, where the Lamb wave was recorded at 50 stations worldwide. The evolution of Lamb wave parameters with distance and its attenuation characteristics were investigated using observational data.
Does robotic assisted surgery mitigate obesity related systemic inflammatory response and clinical outcomes in left sided colorectal cancer resections?
Authors: Ingham Abigail R , McSorley Stephen T , McMillan Donald C , Mansouri David , Chong David , Mackay Graham J , Wrobel Aleksandra , Kong Chia Yew , Roxburgh Campbell SD
Published: November 2024

Background:
Obesity (BMI > 30kg/m2) is rapidly increasing worldwide with 26% of the UK population obese and 38% overweight. Obesity is intimately related to several life-limiting conditions including colorectal cancer (CRC). Obese patients have a higher degree of perioperative systemic inflammatory response (SIR) and an increased risk of perioperative complications. The aim of this current study was to investigate whether robotic-assisted surgery mitigates the effects of obesity in left sided CRC resections on the SIR and clinical outcomes.
Methods:
All patients undergoing left-sided colorectal cancer resections from May 2021 to May 2023 were prospectively entered into a database with patient characteristics and perioperative short-term outcomes recorded. CRP was considered a surrogate for SIR. The relationship between obesity and complications were examined using Chi Square for linear association, Kruskall-Wallace for continuous data and multivariate binary logistic regression model.
Results:
221 patients who underwent RAS for left-sided CRC were analysed. Obesity was associated with more comorbidity (ASA, p < 0.01) and SSI (p < 0.05) but not with age, sex, procedure or pathology. POD3 CRP < 150mg/l was also associated with obesity (p < 0.01). In turn, greater comorbidity was associated with age (p < 0.001), site of resection (p < 0.05), SSI (p < 0.05), postoperative blood transfusion (p < 0.01) and LOS (p < 0.001). On multivariate analysis, only greater ASA (p < 0.05) and surgical procedure (p < 0.01) were associated with the development of an SSI independently.
Conclusion:
Greater comorbidity but not obesity was independently associated with postoperative SIR and clinical outcomes in patients undergoing RAS. These results support the use of RAS for left sided CRC resections, particularly in the obese.
Species distribution modelling of Ornithodoros spp. in California with consideration of climate variation and identification of ASFV high-risk areas
Authors: Gonzalez-Crespo Carlos , Jourdan-Pineau Hélène , Patterson Laura , Pires Alda F. A. , Martínez-López Beatriz
Published: November 2024

Background
African swine fever virus (ASFV) is a highly contagious pathogen affecting domestic and wild pigs, with soft ticks (Ornithodoros spp.) acting as significant vectors. Understanding the distribution of Ornithodoros ticks in relation to environmental variables is crucial for anticipating ASFV transmission risk areas.
Methods
This study employed species distribution modeling (SDM) using MaxEnt and Random Forest algorithms to predict the suitable habitat of Ornithodoros coriaceus, O. hermsi, and O. parkeri in California under current and future climate scenarios (2061–2080). The SDMs incorporated climate, edaphic, topographic, and habitat variables, with models evaluated through 10-fold cross-validation using the Area Under the Curve (AUC).
Results
Key predictors included Isothermality (BIO3), Precipitation Seasonality (BIO15), and soil type (Entisols). The present habitat suitability for Ornithodoros spp. covered approximately 117,208 km², projected to increase by 6,869.5 km² under future conditions. The spatial co-occurrence analysis highlighted an overlap of approximately 37,242.75 km² between Ornithodoros spp. habitats and feral/domestic pig distributions, expanding to 39,213 km² under future scenarios.
Conclusions
Identifying high-risk areas for ASFV transmission through SDMs provides valuable insights for targeted surveillance and biosecurity measures. The study emphasizes the need for integrated vector-host management and proactive strategies to mitigate ASFV risk in California.
DNA Methylation Signature of a Lifestyle-based Resilience Index for Cognitive Health
Authors: Wang Lily , Zhang Wei , Lukacsovich David , Young Juan , Gomez Lissette , Schmidt Michael , Martin Eden , Kunkle Brian , Chen Xi , O’Shea Deirdre , Galvin James
Published: November 2024

Cognitive resilience (CR) contributes to the variability in risk for developing and progressing in Alzheimer's disease (AD) among individuals. Beyond genetics, recent studies highlight the critical role of lifestyle factors in enhancing CR and delaying cognitive decline. DNA methylation (DNAm), an epigenetic mechanism influenced by both genetic and environmental factors, including CR-related lifestyle factors, offers a promising pathway for understanding the biology of CR. We studied DNAm changes associated with the Resilience Index (RI), a composite measure of lifestyle factors, using blood samples from the Healthy Brain Initiative (HBI) cohort. After corrections for multiple comparisons, our analysis identified 19 CpGs and 24 differentially methylated regions significantly associated with the RI, adjusting for covariates age, sex, APOE ε4, and immune cell composition. The RI-associated methylation changes are significantly enriched in pathways related to lipid metabolism, synaptic plasticity, and neuroinflammation, and highlight the connection between cardiovascular health and cognitive function. By identifying RI-associated DNAm, our study provided an alternative approach to discovering future targets and treatment strategies for AD, complementary to the traditional approach of identifying disease-associated variants directly. Furthermore, we developed a Methylation-based Resilience Score (MRS) that successfully predicted future cognitive decline in an external dataset from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI), even after accounting for age, sex, APOE ε4, years of education, baseline diagnosis, and baseline MMSE score. Our findings are particularly relevant for a better understanding of epigenetic architecture underlying cognitive resilience. Importantly, the significant association between baseline MRS and future cognitive decline demonstrated that DNAm could be a predictive marker for AD, laying the foundation for future studies on personalized AD prevention.
4D Printing of Hydrophobic API-Infused Alginate-Gelatin Porous Scaffolds Reinforced with TiO2 and β-TCP for Tissue Regeneration and Drug Delivery
Authors: Ramirez-Cedillo Erick , Urruela-Barrios Rodrigo , García-Avila Josué , Alvarez Alejandro J. , Ortega-Lara Wendy
Published: November 2024

Although scaffolds in tissue engineering and regenerative medicine have shown enhanced properties when loaded with pharmaceutical active ingredients (API), not many systematic methodologies have been developed allowing controllable loads and a low energy input, especially hydrophobic drugs. In this work, a novel approach to load 3D printed alginate/gelatin hydrogel scaffolds with a hydrophobic antiinflammatory is presented. The scaffold, made mainly of alginate biopolymer is non-toxic, biocompatible, and highly porous. Inside its porous structure, active pharmaceutical ingredients (API) can be easily loaded. Due to the alginate ease of gelation, microextrusion 3D printing was used to produce these hydrogels-based scaffolds. In addition to the API, TiO2 and beta-tricalcium phosphate (𝛽-TCP) were incorporated in the scaffold to create reinforced composite hydrogels. Rheological profiles of the emulsion-laden solutions before crosslinking were analyzed. FTIR, XRD, thermal analysis, and electron microscopy are used to measure porosity and analyze the ibuprofen crystal size. Mechanical properties of the hydrogels were also compared and analyzed against a reference hydrogel with just alginate/gelatin. Finally, drug release curves were developed. The results showed that the loaded composite hydrogels could be manufactured by 3D printing. The resulting crosslinked structures have a porosity from 25𝜇m to 50 𝜇m, and crystals of the API were formed inside those pores. Moreover, the composite hydrogels showed enhanced mechanical properties up to 65 MPa of elastic modulus. Drug delivery curves also showed dependence on the crystal size inside the porous structure. Overall, this approach enables the synthesis of a printable composite alginate solution, loaded with an API, and with adequate physical properties for tissue regeneration.
Рецепция античных топонимов в арабской географии: Сведения об озере Тирмā в сочинениях ал-Идриси, Ибн Са‛ида и Абу-л-Фиды
Authors: И.Г. Коновалова
Published: November 2024

В статье исследуются сведения арабских географов XII–XIV вв. ал-Идриси, Ибн Са‛ида и Абу ал-Фиды об озере Тирма, которое они локализуют на территории современной Восточной Европы. Рассмотрение этих известий в контексте античной географической традиции о Восточной Европе позволяет установить, что на формирование представлений арабских ученых о гидрографии региона большое влияние оказали исламские переработки географического сочинения Клавдия Птолемея (II в. н.э.), упоминавшего о городе Тирамба (Τυράμβη) на побережье Меотиды. Первоначально в арабской географии гидроним Тирма служил наименованием Азовского моря и в этом качестве в X в. использовался параллельно с названием Меотида (араб. Майутис). Впоследствии накопление новых знаний об Азовском море привело к тому, что оба гидронима стали обозначать разные объекты: термин Майутис продолжал применяться для наименования Азовского моря, название же Тирма в конечном счете сделалось обозначением воображаемого объекта — огромного озера в глубине континента.
ЦЕННОСТИ УНИВЕРСИТЕТСКОЙ КУЛЬТУРЫСКВОЗЬ ПРИЗМУ ЧУВСТВ(по воспоминаниям воспитанников и профессоровИмператорского Харьковского университета)
Authors:  Ю.  Киселева
Published: November 2024

Статья посвящена реконструкции ценностно-эмоционального репертуара университетской культуры на основе изучения мемуарного комплекса императорского Харьковского университета. Автор отстаивает тезис об органической связи ценностей и эмоций в мемуарном дискурсе. Характерные черты университетской культуры обуславливали специфические формы отбора и репрезентации эмоций в воспоминаниях, но в то же время эмоции играли ключевую роль в процессе формирования, сохранения и трансляции университетской культуры посредством мемуарного дис-курса. Делается вывод об оптимистическом характере культуры университетской корпорации в целом и необходимости осознанного использования ее ценностно-эмоционального потенциала.

The article is devoted to the reconstruction of the repertoire of values and emotions in university culture on the basis of analysing the body of memoir literature from the imperial Kharkov University. The author argues that there existed an organic relationship between values and emotions in the memoir discourse. On the one hand, the distinctive features of university culture were caused by specific forms of selecting and representing emotions in memoirs, but at the same time emotions played a seminal role in the process of formation, preservation and transmission of university culture through the memoir discourse. The author concludes that there existed an “optimistic imperative” in the culture of the university corporation as a whole and that its principles of employing values and emotions remain valid today.