bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Signal integrator function of CXXC5 in Cancer
Authors: An Zihao , Wang Jiepu , Li Chengzuo , Tang Chao
Published: January 2025

CXXC type zinc finger protein 5 (CXXC5) is a member of the ZF-CXXC family and plays a pivotal role in signal integration and information transfer within cell signaling network. CXXC5 acts as a regulator in various physiological processes, and abnormalities in its protein structure or function have been linked to multiple pathological processes. In this article, we correspondingly describe the composition of the ZF-CXXC family, emphatically introducing the features of the CXXC5 gene and protein, review the role of CXXC5 in cellular signaling networks, the physiological and pathological processes associated with CXXC5 dysregulation, and particularly focus on the correlation between CXXC5 and cancers. Finally, we summarize the current therapies targeting CXXC5 and their potential applications, and discuss the intriguing findings from current studies, and the opportunities and challenges in future.

Graphical Abstract
Exome sequencing reveals a rare damaging variant in GRIN2C in familial late-onset Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Rubino Elisa , Italia Maria , Giorgio Elisa , Boschi Silvia , Dimartino Paola , Pippucci Tommaso , Roveta Fausto , Cambria Clara Maria , Elia Gabriella , Marcinnò Andrea , Gallone Salvatore , Rogaeva Ekaterina , Antonucci Flavia , Brusco Alfredo , Gardoni Fabrizio , Rainero Innocenzo
Published: January 2025

Background

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder with both genetic and environmental factors contributing to its pathogenesis. While early-onset AD has well-established genetic determinants, the genetic basis for late-onset AD remains less clear. This study investigates a large Italian family with late-onset autosomal dominant AD, identifying a novel rare missense variant in GRIN2C gene associated with the disease, and evaluates the functional impact of this variant.

Methods

Affected and unaffected members from a Northern Italian family were included. Genomic DNA from family members was extracted and initially screened for pathogenic mutations in APP, PSEN1, and PSEN2, and screened for 77 genes associated with neurodegenerative conditions using NeuroX array assay. Exome sequencing was performed on three affected individuals and two healthy relatives. Bioinformatics analyses were conducted. Functional analysis was performed using primary neuronal cultures, and the impact of the variant was assessed through immunocytochemistry and electrophysiology.

Results

Pathogenic variants were not identified in APP, PSEN1, or PSEN2, nor in the 77 genes in NeuroX array assay. Exome Sequencing revealed the c.3215C > T p.(A1072V) variant in GRIN2C gene (NM 000835.6), encoding for the glutamate ionotropic receptor N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor (NMDA) type subunit 2C (GluN2C). This variant segregated in 6 available AD patients in the family and was absent in 9 healthy relatives. Primary rat hippocampal neurons overexpressing GluN2CA1072V showed an increase in NMDAR-induced currents, suggesting altered glutamatergic transmission. Surface expression assays demonstrated an elevated surface/total ratio of the mutant GluN2C, correlating with the increased NMDAR current. Additionally, immunocytochemistry revealed in neurons expressing the mutant variant a reduced colocalization between the GluN2C subunit and 14-3-3 proteins, which are known to facilitate membrane trafficking of NMDARs.

Discussion

We identified a rare missense variant in GRIN2C associated with late-onset autosomal dominant Alzheimer's disease. These findings highlight the role of GluN2C-containing NMDARs in glutamatergic signaling and their potential contribution to AD pathogenesis.
Procedural sedative effect of remimazolam in ICU patients on invasive mechanical ventilation: a randomised, prospective study
Authors: Tian Youli , Li Jintong , Jin Minggen , Piao YiHua , Sheng Jisheng , Mei Zhixiong , Cui Qingsong , Li Lilin
Published: January 2025

Background

Invasive procedures and environmental factors in the intensive care unit (ICU) may cause anxiety and discomfort in patients, who often require sedation therapy. The aim of this study was to assess the safety of remimazolam tosilate for procedural sedation in ICU patients receiving mechanical ventilation following endotracheal intubation. Eighty patients from a single centre were randomly assigned to either the propofol group or the remimazolam group. Blood tests were conducted to evaluate changes in lactate, blood lipids, liver and kidney function, and inflammatory markers, and patients’ vital signs were observed over several periods. This study compared the incidence of delirium, the impact on liver and kidney function, circulatory effects, and changes in blood lipids between the two groups. These findings have optimised the selection of medications, providing ICU patients with more options for sedation therapy.

Methods

In this single-centre randomised controlled trial, intubated patients were randomly assigned to the remimazolam group or the propofol group. Under the same analgesic regimen, the two groups received remimazolam and propofol for procedural sedation.

Results

Our primary outcome was the mean arterial pressure (MAP), which significantly differed on Days 4 and 7 (P = 0.021, control group vs. experimental group = 85.23 ± 11.24 vs. 94.36 ± 13.18, P = 0.023, 83.55 ± 8.94 vs. 92.66 ± 7.02). With respect to liver and kidney function, the ∆AST value in the remimazolam group was significantly lower than that in the control group on Day 7 (P = 0.023). There were significant differences in triglyceride (TG) levels on Days 4 and 7 (P = 0.020) and in the ∆LDL on Day 7 (P = 0.027). Furthermore, the rates of dyslipidaemia and delirium in the remimazolam group were lower than those in the propofol group (85.0%, n = 40 vs. 90.0%, n = 40; 27.5%, n = 40 vs. 55%, n = 40).

Conclusion

Remimazolam is a novel benzodiazepine that has demonstrated promising applications in general anaesthesia and procedural sedation; however, its use in ICU sedation is still in the early stages of research. Current evidence suggests that remimazolam is a safe sedative that is particularly well suited for patients with haemodynamic instability. Large sample-size randomised clinical trials are warranted.
Anti-allergic effect of 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin in IgE-mediated RBL-2H3 cells and PCA murine model
Authors: Gwon Sugeun , Shin Seong-Ah , Kim Moonsu , Moon Sun Young , Choi Seyeon , Kim Minji , Lee Jun Hyuck , Park Hyun Ho , Lee Chang Sup
Published: January 2025

Allergy is an immune-mediated disorder characterized by an exaggerated response of the immune system to non-hazardous substances, resulting in allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, and runny nose. Current therapeutic interventions include antihistamines and steroids; however, they induce several side effects. Although 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin, a phytochemical derivative, has been demonstrated to exhibit antioxidant, anti-apoptotic, and anti-aggregatory effects, its anti-allergic properties and underlying molecular mechanisms remain elusive. Therefore, this study was conducted to investigate the anti-allergic effects of 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin in two experimental models: rat basophilic leukemia-2H3 cells sensitized using dinitrophenyl-specific immunoglobulin E (IgE)/human serum albumin and a passive cutaneous anaphylaxis (PCA) murine model. Our findings demonstrated that 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced the release of histamine and β-hexosaminidase and downregulated the mRNA expression of allergic-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-13, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha, as well as the inflammatory enzyme cyclooxygenase-2. Furthermore, 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced the phosphorylation of mitogen-activated protein kinases such as extracellular signal-regulated kinase and p38, as well as protein kinase B. In vivo, 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin reduced PCA reaction, as evidenced by reduced Evans blue dye extravasation in IgE-mediated local allergic responses. Collectively, these results suggest that 5,7-dihydroxy-4-methylcoumarin holds promise as a novel candidate for the development of anti-allergic drugs.
New acorane-sesequiterpenes and anti-retinoblastoma constituents from the marine algicolous fungus Trichoderma harzianum NTU2180 guided by molecular networking strategy
Authors: Gu Andrea , Lin Fan-Li , Lu Chung-Kuang , Yeh Tz-Wei , Chen Yih-Fung , Wu Ho-Cheng , Lee Tzong-Huei
Published: January 2025

Background

Trichoderma species, known as biocontrol agents against plant diseases, contain diverse compounds, especially terpenoids, with various bioactivities. To facilitate the exploration of bioactive secondary metabolites of Trichoderma harzianum NTU2180, the OSMAC approach MS/MS molecular networking was applied in the current study.

Results

The feature-based molecular networking (FBMN) analysis showed that T. harzianum NTU2180 fermented on germinated brown rice (GBR) produced more terpenoids. Here, two new acorane-sesequiterpenes, trichospirols A (1) and B (2), and 12 known compounds (3 − 14) were isolated from the EtOAc layer of T. harzianum NTU2180 fermentation on GBR. Structures of these compounds were determined through NMR, UV, IR, and MS analyses. The absolute configuration of trichospirols A (1) was also elucidated by x-ray with Cu K-α radiation. Among them, six compounds (1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 11) were annotated as terpenoids by the NPClassifier on FBMN. 5-Hydroxy-3-hydroxmethyl-2-methyl-7-methoxychromone (7) and ergosterol peroxide (11) showed significant anti-angiogenic activity in ex vivo experiments with respective 0.57 ± 0.12- and 0.20 ± 0.12-fold changes. In addition, compound 11 displayed cytotoxicity against Y79 retinoblastoma cells with IC50 value of 35.3 ± 6.9 µM.

Conclusions

The current study utilizes FBMN concept with OSMAC approach to accelerate the exploration of potential metabolites of the fungus Trichoderma harzianum NTU2180. Through a series of FBMN-guided isolation and purification, two new acorane-sesequiterpenes and 12 known compounds were obtained. The ex vivo and in vitro experiments were evaluated to assess anticancer isolates. It is worth noting that compound 11 was identified as a dual inhibitor targeting both angiogenesis and proliferation of retinoblastomas. Altogether, the results revealed the novel potential of T. harzianum for developing natural therapeutics against retinoblastomas.
Understanding price momentum, market fluctuations, and crashes: insights from the extended Samuelson model
Authors: Han Qingyuan
Published: January 2025

Although momentum strategies result in abnormal profitability, thereby challenging the efficient market hypothesis (EMH), concerns persist regarding their reliability due to their significant volatility and susceptibility to substantial losses. In this study, we investigate the limitations of these strategies and propose a solution. Our literature review reveals that the volatile profits are due to statistical analyses that assume the persistence of past patterns, leading to unreliable results in out-of-sample scenarios when underlying mechanisms evolve. Statistical analysis, the predominant method in financial economics, often proves inadequate in explaining market fluctuations and predicting crashes. To overcome these limitations, a paradigm shift towards dynamic approaches is essential. Drawing inspiration from three groundbreaking economists, we introduce the extended Samuelson model (ESM), a dynamic model that connects price changes to market participant actions. This paradigm transition uncovers several significant findings. First, timely signals indicate momentum initiations, cessations, and reversals, validated using S&P 500 data from 1999 to 2023. Second, ESM predicts the 1987 Black Monday crash weeks in advance, offering a new perspective on its underlying cause. Third, we classify sequential stock price data into eight distinct market states, including their thresholds for transitions, laying the groundwork for market trend predictions and risk assessments. Fourth, the ESM is shown to be a compelling alternative to EMH, offering potent explanatory and predictive power based on a single, realistic assumption. Our findings suggest that ESM has the potential to provide policymakers with proactive tools, enabling financial institutions to enhance their risk assessment and management strategies.
Sero-molecular prevalence of toxoplasmosis in hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis patients in Markazi Province, Iran
Authors: Sarmadian Hossein , Shojapour Mana , chegeni Fereshteh , Tabatabaiefar Mohammad Amin , Haghverdi Farshid , Sarmadian Roham , Ghasemikhah Reza
Published: January 2025

Background

Infectious diseases, particularly parasitic infections such as toxoplasmosis, contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality of hemodialysis patients. Toxoplasma gondii infection poses serious risks, especially to immunocompromised individuals. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of latent toxoplasmosis in dialysis patients in Markazi Province, Iran.

Methods

A total of 181 patients (168 hemodialysis and 13 peritoneal dialysis) were included in this cross-sectional study. Blood samples were collected and tested for anti-Toxoplasma IgG and IgM antibodies using ELISA, while PCR was used to detect T. gondii DNA. Data were analyzed using SPSS, with P < 0.05 considered significant.

Results

Out of 181 patients, 123 (67.95%) were seropositive for IgG antibodies, with the highest prevalence in those aged over 60 years. No cases tested positive for IgM antibodies or T. gondii DNA. Age was significantly associated with higher seroprevalence (P < 0.05), but there were no significant differences regarding gender, dialysis type, or duration of dialysis.

Conclusion

The high prevalence of latent toxoplasmosis in dialysis patients underscores the need for regular screening to prevent serious complications. Given the limitations of serological tests, molecular diagnostics like PCR should be considered for better detection in immunocompromised patients.
Computer-guided identification of novel inhibitors of apoptosis-signaling kinase 1 from Spondia mombim bioactive compounds against colorectal cancer
Authors: Elekofehinti Olusola Olalekan , Popoola Hannah Oluwaseun , Oluwatuyi Adedotun Olayemi , Iwaloye Opeyemi , Akinjiyan Moses Orimoloye , Cecilia Oluwamodupe , Ogundolie Frank Abimbola , Olatunde Olalekan Isaac , Abchir Oussama , Chtita Samir , Rocha Joao Batista Texeira
Published: January 2025

Background

Apoptosis-signaling kinase 1 is a MAPKKK (mitogen-activated protein kinase) overexpressed in various types of human cancer including colorectal cancer. It mediates inflammation and apoptosis and promotes cell proliferation through the transcription of cyclin D1. 5-Fluorouracil remains one of the primary recommended drugs to manage colorectal cancer. However, this drug often causes various adverse effects, notably diarrhea, vomiting, nausea, and leukopenia. Therefore, a novel treatment is required to eradicate these problems. The clinical implication of apoptosis-signaling kinase 1 in the pathogenicity of colorectal cancer makes it an important drug target in the treatment of colorectal cancer. The use of natural compounds in human cancer treatment continues to gain significant attention in the scientific community due to their therapeutic efficacy.

Method

In this study, computational models such as flexible docking, induced fit docking, and binding free energy calculation were employed to identify small molecule inhibitors from known bioactive compounds of Spondias mombin in reference to 5-fluorouracil (Colorectal cancer standard drug) targeting apoptosis-signaling kinase 1.

Results

Molecular docking studies identified 10 promising candidates which include uvaretin, rutin, isoquercitrin, ellagic acid, quercetin, linalool, acetyl eugenol, tangeretin (-)-catechin, and d-sorbitol based on their favorable binding affinity, with uvaretin having the best score (− 11.328 kcal/mol). The results were further validated with more dependable analysis such as induced fit docking and binding free energy calculation. These compounds showed modest indices for ADMET parameters. Molecular dynamic simulation validated ellagic acid and (-)-catechin with greater binding stability as leading compounds.

Conclusion

These compounds showed improved flexible docking results and formed considerable stable interaction with the protein than 5-fluorouracil. They are non-carcinogenic. The oral bioavailability and toxicities of these compounds are promising as compounds obeyed the Lipinski rule of five. The constructed quantitative structure–activity relationship model with a trustworthy R
2 coefficient value supports the inhibition prowess of these compounds. The findings from this research confer that these compounds could be considered potent apoptosis-signaling kinase 1 inhibitors, and these could be confirmed experimentally as lead compounds of apoptosis-signaling kinase 1 inhibitors in colorectal cancer.
Microcephalic osteodysplastic primordial dwarfism type II in four Indian children with PCNT variants
Authors: Singh Amit , Garg Mahak , Shariq Mohammed , Khetarpal Preeti , Panigrahi Inusha
Published: January 2025

Background

Microcephalic Osteodysplastic Primordial Dwarfism Type II (MOPD II) is an autosomal recessive rare genetic condition marked by characteristic clinical symptoms of prenatal and post-natal growth retardation, reduced height, and microcephaly caused by variations in PCNT gene located on chromosome 21q22.

Case presentation

Four patients of Indian origin with growth deficiency and additional clinical features of MOPDII were recruited from a tertiary health care center and whole exome sequencing was performed on blood samples from these patients. Data were analyzed using standard bioinformatic algorithms and possible causal variants identified. Out of 4, 2 patients were identified to have splice site variants, one had nonsense variant, and one with single nucleotide deletion leading to frameshift in PCNT. All identified variants were in homozygous state. The variant PCNT:c.3465-1G > A has previously been reported in two unrelated patients in Israeli Druze population. The c.9273 + 1G > A variant has been documented in two independent studies, one from the United states and the other from the United Kingdom. Two mutations, a nonsense c.5299C > T and a frameshift single nucleotide deletion c.4180delG are currently mentioned in few databases only.

Conclusion

All four patients had significant microcephaly and growth retardation and the new variants were found to be likely pathogenic by in silico analysis. Early detection of the syndrome is essential for early interventions, proper genetic counseling and prenatal diagnosis.
Growing demand for housing and the productivity challenges in developing housing projects in Iraq
Authors: Hassoon Ali , Ghazali Farid Ezanee Mohamed , Khaleel Tareq , Hadi Ahmed
Published: January 2025

The housing sector in Iraq is facing growing demand. However, productivity challenges continue to hinder the timely and efficient delivery of residential projects. Recognising the urgent need to increase construction productivity (CP) in this sector, this study investigates critical factors that impact the performance of horizontal housing projects in Iraq. The novelty of this research lies in its focus on housing skeleton tasks, such as foundations, brickwork, and slabs, which are pivotal to project efficiency. A structured questionnaire was developed, encompassing 47 factors distributed across the planning, design, and construction phases. The survey was administered to a range of industry stakeholders, including project managers, consultants, engineers, and supervisors, and it achieved a high response rate of 79.6%. The results were analysed via a modified weighted relative importance index (RII), which incorporates respondents’ experience levels to yield a nuanced understanding of each factor’s impact. The key findings reveal that planning (RII = 0.874), team size (RII = 0.856), quantity of brickwork (RII = 0.838), supervision (RII = 0.815), and unit area (RII = 0.793) are among the most influential factors on CP. These insights provide valuable guidance for researchers and practitioners in identifying areas for strategic improvement, ultimately supporting the capacity of Iraq’s housing sector to meet escalating demands.
Consensus evidence-based clinical practice guide for the diagnosis and management of osteoporosis in childhood and adolescence
Authors: El Miedany Yasser , Lotfy Hala , Gaafary Maha El , Gadallah Naglaa , Mehanna Annie Nasr , Mahran Safaa , Hassan Waleed , Abu-Zaid Mohammed Hassan , Tabra Samar Abdelhamed , Mortada Mohamed , Radwan Ahmed R. , Mikkawy Dalia El , Maher S. Esam , Eldrainy Ghada , Abdulhady Hala , Mahgoub Marwa , Amer Youmna , Elwakil Walaa
Published: January 2025

Background

The incidence of osteoporosis in children has increased dramatically during the last decade. This has been attributed to better survival rates of children living with chronic disorders, the increased use of medications known to have a negative impact on the children’s bones, and the increased preference for indoor activities and sedentary life in healthy children. Recent advances in pediatric osteoporosis definition, along with a lack of management recommendations or national consensus on its diagnosis and treatment, have led to a wide range of approaches being implemented to manage this illness. The aim of this work was to develop an optimal evidence-based consensus, target-oriented, on-steered therapeutic approach for children with osteoporosis. Based on 15 key clinical questions, a qualitative literature evaluation was conducted to provide evidence-based recommendations for the treatment of pediatric osteoporosis. An expert panel of 14 pediatric osteoporosis specialists conducted a Delphi survey. The level of evidence for each element was assessed using the Oxford Centre for Evidence-based Medicine (CEBM) System, when available, and/or based on the expert panel’s personal experience. All recommendations with an agreement rate of 75% or higher were included.

Results

Thirty-six recommendations, categorized into 13 domains, had evidence 4 or 5 and consequently were included in the Delphi survey. This was assessed online and a response rate of 82.4% was achieved. Delphi 2 round revealed that all the recommendations achieved 75% or more level of agreement and therefore have been accepted and included in this management recommendations. Based on that an algorithm showing an approach to pediatric osteoporosis management and maintenance of therapy has been developed.

Conclusion

For the management of children with osteoporosis, consulting a pediatric bone specialist is strongly advised, either by referral or by advice. This is extremely relevant because children are uniquely capable of recovering spontaneously or with the assistance of medication. This includes also vertebral fractures reshaping. Consequently, there is a huge opportunity to improve bone mass accretion and thus musculoskeletal health in children with osteoporosis.
Risk Stratification Using Tree-Based Models for Recurrence-Free Survival in Breast Cancer
Authors: Oh Eun Jeong , Alfano Catherine M. , Esteva Francisco J. , Baron Paul L. , Xiong Wenxuan , Tortorella Brooke E. , Chen Ellen I. , Chiuzan Cody
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

An accurate risk model is critical for risk-stratified cancer care and delivery. We developed a survival decision tree (SDT) model as a risk stratification tool to categorize patients into distinct groups and compared the model performance with other methods through a benchmarking design.

METHODS

Data were obtained from the Northwell Health cancer registry for patients with breast cancer who were initially diagnosed and first seen at one of the nine Northwell facilities between 2018 and 2021. The SDT model was constructed to segment patients into different risk groups, and their recurrence-free survival (RFS) probabilities were compared using the log-rank test. We compared the SDT with the Cox proportional hazards model and random survival forest (RSF). Model performance was assessed using the c-index, calibration intercept and slope, and integrated Brier score.

RESULTS

A total of 5,919 patients diagnosed with invasive breast cancer were analyzed, and four risk groups were identified: low risk, medium risk, high risk, and very high risk. There was a significant difference in RFS across groups (
P
< .001). The pruned SDT model showed similar or better performance than the benchmarking methods; however, the RSF may be useful in the subgroup of patients with two or more comorbidities, where a more complex relationship may exist.

CONCLUSION

Risk stratification can be accurately modeled via a tree-based method. Future research should layer in other outcomes, such as comorbidity, ongoing treatment toxicities, or risk of delayed treatment, to improve risk-stratified care and effective use of health care resources.
Impact of Psychological Factors on Survival in Metastatic Esophagogastric Cancer: Secondary Analysis of a Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Song Lili , Pang Ying , He Yi , Lu Zhihao , Fang Yu , Zhang Xiaotian , Cao Yanshuo , Jiao Xi , Zhou Jun , Qi Changsong , Gong Jifang , Wang Xicheng , Li Jian , Liu Chang , Tang Lili
Published: January 2025

PURPOSE

Early interdisciplinary supportive care (ESC), including psychological interventions, can improve the survival of patients with metastatic esophagogastric cancer (EGC). The purpose of the study was to evaluate the association between psychological factors and survival in patients with metastatic EGC.

METHODS

A secondary analysis was conducted for an open-label randomized controlled trial of ESC, in which 246 patients with EGC completed a distress measure (the distress thermometer) and a depression symptom measure (the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 [PHQ-9]) at baseline before cancer treatments. Cox regression was applied to explore the influence of psychological distress and depressive symptoms on overall survival (OS) and progression-free survival (PFS).

RESULTS

Patients with moderate depressive symptoms (PHQ-9 ≥8) had shorter PFS (3.5
v
6.0 months,
P
< .001) and shorter OS (10.7
v
15.0 months,
P
= .001) than those without. Patients with significant psychological distress had worse PFS (4.8
v
6.3 months,
P
= .035) and worse OS (13.4
v
15.5 months,
P
= .039) than those without. After controlling for performance status, group, sex, primary tumor site, tumor histology, and age, only depressive symptoms remained associated with worse PFS (adjusted hazard ratio [HR], 2.02 [95% CI, 1.41 to 2.91];
P
< .001) and worse OS (adjusted HR, 1.70 [95% CI, 1.17 to 2.47];
P
= .006).

CONCLUSION

This study shows that depressive symptoms at baseline were associated with poor survival in patients with newly diagnosed metastatic EGC. Therefore, screening and preventive intervention for depression should be integrated into routine cancer care for this population.
Stereotactic Radiosurgery for World Health Organization Grade 2 and 3 Oligodendroglioma: An International Multicenter Study
Authors: Langlois Anne-Marie , Iorio-Morin Christian , Kallos Justiss , Niranjan Ajay , Lunsford L. Dade , Peker Selcuk , Samanci Yavuz , Park David J. , Barnett Gene H. , Liscak Roman , Simonova Gabriela , Pikis Stylianos , Mantziaris Georgios , Sheehan Jason , Lee Cheng-chia , Yang Huai-che , Bowden Greg N. , Mathieu David
Published: January 2025

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Oligodendrogliomas are primary brain tumors classified as isocitrate deshydrogenase–mutant and 1p19q codeleted in the 2021 World Health Organization Classification of central nervous system tumors. Surgical resection, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy are well-established management options for these tumors. Few studies have evaluated the efficacy of stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS) for oligodendroglioma. As these tumors are less infiltrative than astrocytomas and typically recur locally, focal therapy such as SRS is an appealing option.

METHODS:

This study was performed through the International Radiosurgery Research Foundation. The objective was to collect retrospective multicenter data on tumor control, clinical response, and morbidity after SRS for oligodendroglioma. Inclusion criteria were age of 18 years or more, single-fraction SRS, and histological confirmation of grade 2 or 3 oligodendroglioma. The primary end points were progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival from SRS. Secondary end points included clinical evolution and occurrence of adverse radiation events or other complications. Descriptive statistics, Kaplan–Meier analyses, and univariate and multivariate analyses were performed.

RESULTS:

Eight institutions submitted data for a total of 55 patients. The median follow-up time was 24 months. The median age at SRS was 46 years, and the median Karnofsky Performance Status was 90%. The median marginal dose used was 15 Gy. The median PFS was 17 months, with actuarial rates of 60% at 1 year, 31% at 2 years, and 24% at 5 years after SRS. Factors significantly associated with worsened PFS were World Health Organization grade 3, previous radiotherapy and chemotherapy, and higher marginal dose. The median overall survival post-SRS was 58 months, with actuarial rates of 92% at 1 year, 83% at 2 years, and 49% at 5 years. Karnofsky Performance Status remained stable post-SRS in 51% and worsened in 47% of patients, most often because of tumor progression (73%). Radiation-induced changes occurred in 30% of patients, of which only 4 were symptomatic.

CONCLUSION:

SRS is a reasonable management option for patients with oligodendroglioma.
Towards a shape-performance integrated digital twin for lumbar spine analysis
Authors: He Xiwang , Qiu Yiming , Lai Xiaonan , Li Zhonghai , Shu Liming , Sun Wei , Song Xueguan
Published: January 2025

Background With significant advancement and demand for digital transformation, the digital twin has been gaining increasing attention as it is capable of establishing real-time mapping between physical space and virtual space. In this work, a digital twin solution is presented to predict the real-time biomechanics of the lumbar spine during human movement. Methods A finite element model (FEM) of the lumbar spine was firstly developed using computed tomography (CT) and constrained by the body movement which calculated by the inverse kinematics algorithm. The Gaussian process regression was utilized to train the predicted results and create the digital twin of the lumbar spine in real-time. Finally, a three-dimensional virtual reality system was developed using Unity3D to display and record the real-time biomechanics performance of the lumbar spine during body movement. Results The evaluation results presented an agreement (R 2 >0.8) between the real-time prediction from digital twin and offline FEM prediction. Conclusions This approach provides an effective method of real-time planning and warning in spine rehabilitation.
Work-related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WMSDs) and Quality of Life (QoL) among the construction workers in the United Arab Emirates.
Authors: Anwar Wajiha , Rashid Fatima Abdul , Hazari Animesh , Kandakurti Praveen Kumar
Published: January 2025

Background The United Arab Emirates (UAE) construction industry has rapidly expanded, but construction work, by its nature, poses a high risk of work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). These disorders significantly impact quality of life (QoL) and productivity and lead to disability and absenteeism. Aims and Objectives The study aims to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among UAE construction workers using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) and assess their QoL using the Short-Form (SF-36) survey. Additionally, it aims to explore factors associated with WMSDs and QoL among construction workers in the United Arab Emirates. Methods This study is a cross-sectional, survey-based design conducted from July 2023 to May 2024 in the United Arab Emirates. The study included male construction workers aged 18-50 with at least 1 year of experience. Participants were recruited using a combination of convenience and purposive sampling methods. The data were collected via paper-based forms using the SF-36 and NMQ questionnaires. The study instruments were chosen after reviewing relevant literature to ensure minimal measurement bias. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, tests for normality, and Pearson’s correlation test with a significance level of p <0.05. Results A total of 346 construction workers were accessed and the study found an 81.8% 12-month WMSD prevalence, most commonly affecting the lower back (44.8%), neck (45.1%), and shoulders (37.9%). Additionally, 70.5% reported pain-related limitations, and 63.6% experienced pain in the past week. SF-36 scores were lowest for role limitations due to physical health (30.33) and emotional problems (33.43), with an overall mean of 52.27 out of 100. Conclusion The study found a high prevalence of WMSD in construction workers and moderate quality of life scores. These findings highlight the urgent need to prioritize construction worker health through targeted interventions.
Employment of uncrewed systems in attacks on critical infrastructure: a hybrid threat perspective. Security challenges related to recent developments in technology.
Authors: Piekarski Michał , Wolbach Małgorzata , Okuniewska Magda
Published: January 2025

Background The uncrewed systems, known colloquially as drones are nowadays widely used in various roles, including strictly civilian, law enforcement and military. The pace of technological development is high, following modern technologies, like artificial intelligence. Due to the growing threat to critical infrastructure that includes physical attacks, a fundamental question arises: how the development of uncrewed systems transforms the threat to critical infrastructure. Methods Historical analysis of historical cases of uncrewed system development and employment was used to describe evolution of said systems. For assessment of possible threat to critical infrastructure, a scenario – based analysis was conducted. Seven scenarios, divided into three groups were described as typical contemporary scenarios of uncrewed system use. For assessment of influence of new and emerging technologies especially artificial intelligence, three further scenarios were analyzed. Results and Conclusions Scenario – based analysis show that the uncrewed systems has shown that evolution of uncrewed system, especially use of artificial intelligence increases potential threats to critical infrastructure, due to growing capabilities. Therefore, it is recommended that future research work on countering such type of threat is required.
Evidence-based exercise recommendations to improve functional mobility in older adults - A study protocol for living systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wollesen Bettina , Yellon Tamar , Langeard Antoine , Belkin Vera , Wunderlich Anna , Giannouli Eleftheria , Qian Guoping , Bernades Rafael A. , Ossowski Zbigniew , Marusic Uros , Sighdel Rajesh , Netz Yael , Volecker-Rehage Claudia
Published: January 2025

Background and objectives This is a protocol for a living systematic review and meta-analysis. This review will assess the effects of state-of-the-art exercise interventions designed to promote functional mobility. Therefore, after identifying all potential interventions, we will use the F.I.T.T. principles (frequency, intensity, time, type) as well as the physical and health status of the participants as moderators to analyse the mechanisms for the positive benefits of exercise interventions. The main research questions are: Which exercise types are most beneficial for improving functional mobility in various populations of older adults? Which physical exercise characteristics in terms of frequency, intensity, time and duration will achieve the greatest benefit in terms of the defined outcomes, i.e, the functional mobility of older adults? Methods The systematic literature research according to PRISMA guidelines will search databases like MEDLINE, APA Psych-Info and Web of Science. Inclusion criteria are: healthy older people ≥ 50 years, randomized-controlled trials including exercise intervention and a walking or mobility assessments (eg., TUG, SPPB) as an outcome measure. A preliminary search revealed more than 33,000 hits that will be screened by pairs of independent reviewers. The results will be summarized according to the effects regarding functional mobility and potential dose-response relations via respective meta-analysis. Conclusion The systematic review will comprise the knowledge of the existing literature with regards to the effects of the physical activity interventions compared to an active or inactive control group. We will summarize the effects with respect to the F.I.T.T.. They provide a foundation for structuring an optimal exercise training program. If possible, we will also compare interventions from the different categories (eg. cardiovascular, resistance, motor-coordinative, multicomponent or mind-body exercise) as a network analysis and report the influence of moderator variables. Based on the results evidence-based guidelines following GRADE for physical exercise interventions to improve functional mobility in older adults will be provided.
Empowering Global AMR Research Community: Interactive GIS dashboards for AMR data analysis and informed decision-making
Authors: Opiyo Stephen Obol , Nalunkuma Racheal , Nanyonga Stella Maris , Mugenyi Nathan , Kanyike Andrew Marvin
Published: January 2025

Background Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) poses a global public health challenge, necessitating advanced tools to support data analysis, and visualization. This study introduces interactive Geographic Information System (GIS) dashboards as innovative platforms for AMR data analysis and visualization, offering comprehensive insights into resistance patterns, and geographic distribution across multiple countries, with a specific focus on Africa. Methods Three GIS dashboards were developed to address key objectives. The first integrates over 860,000 ATLAS data points from 83 countries, providing an interactive platform. Users can filter data by variables such as country, year, and region, enhancing data accessibility and visualization. The second dashboard focuses on the ATLAS dataset for Kenya and Uganda, incorporating detailed variables such as species, sample sources, and resistance phenotypes. The third involves Kampala, Uganda, to fill data gaps, enabling localized analyses through interactive features like geographic mapping and sample breakdowns by year. Results The dashboards demonstrated significant utility in visualizing and analyzing AMR data. The global dashboard effectively highlighted geographical trends and exposed critical data gaps, such as the scarcity of AMR records from Africa. The Kenya and Uganda dashboard revealed alarming resistance patterns, including the ineffectiveness of Ceftriaxone, Erythromycin, Levofloxacin, and Ampicillin in combating E. coli isolates. Notably, the Kampala-specific dashboard utilized simulated data to illustrate the potential of this tool for in-depth regional analysis of antibiotic resistance. This simulation showcased the dashboard's capability to incorporate real-time filtering, provide detailed insights into sample sources, and track trends. Across all dashboards, the interactivity significantly streamlined the identification of key trends, simplifying data interpretation for diverse users and supporting informed decision-making processes. Conclusions Interactive GIS dashboards offer a more effective alternative to spreadsheets for AMR data analysis. While spreadsheets provide a basic structure for organizing and managing data, dashboards deliver dynamic, user-friendly interfaces that enable advanced visualization, real-time updates, and intuitive data exploration. Dashboards also enhance accessibility and communication by presenting complex datasets in a more interactive and visually engaging format, making them more efficient for analyzing and interpreting AMR data.
The genome sequence of a leafhopper, Allygus modestus Scott, 1876
Authors: Fowler Keith ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: January 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual male specimen of Allygus modestus (leafhopper; Arthropoda; Insecta; Hemiptera; Cicadellidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 1,819.90 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.86%) is scaffolded into 7 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 16.69 kilobases in length.
The genome sequence of a beetle, Brachypterus glaber (Newman, 1834)
Authors: Barclay Maxwell V.L. , Read Freya , Namintraporn Talay , Geiser Michael F. ,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: January 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual female specimen of Brachypterus glaber (beetle; Arthropoda; Insecta; Coleoptera; Kateretidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 648.30 megabases. Most of the assembly (95.55%) is scaffolded into 11 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the X sex chromosome. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 21.86 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 23,733 protein-coding genes.
The genome sequence of the European Corn Borer, Ostrinia nubilalis Hübner, 1796
Authors: Boyes Douglas , Lees David C. , Coates Brad S. ,   University of Oxford and Wytham Woods Genome Acquisition Lab,   Natural History Museum Genome Acquisition Lab,   Darwin Tree of Life Barcoding collective,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Management, Samples and Laboratory team,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Scientific Operations: Sequencing Operations,   Wellcome Sanger Institute Tree of Life Core Informatics team,   Tree of Life Core Informatics collective,   Darwin Tree of Life Consortium
Published: January 2025

We present a genome assembly from an individual female specimen of Ostrinia nubilalis (European Corn Borer; Arthropoda; Insecta; Lepidoptera; Crambidae). The genome sequence has a total length of 495.50 megabases. Most of the assembly (99.87%) is scaffolded into 32 chromosomal pseudomolecules, including the Z and W sex chromosomes. The mitochondrial genome has also been assembled and is 15.24 kilobases in length. Gene annotation of this assembly on Ensembl identified 16,780 protein-coding genes.
Gamification as a pedagogical technology for increasing motivation and self-realization of students
Authors: Antonovskiy Aleksandr , Zhuykova Sofiya
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the main aspects of using gamification in education as a pedagogical technology to increase motivation and self-realization of students (students and cadets of educational institutions of higher education). Gamification today can be represented as a fairly new pedagogical technology, the active growth of which is associated with the development of the Internet and online education in general. The main stages of the preparation of educational projects within the gamification technology are highlighted. The main directions of gamification implementation in educational practice are revealed (using the example of educational institutions of higher education of the Federal Penitentiary Service of Russia). It is emphasized that gamification is a flexible tool for motivating and increasing student engagement in order to achieve high learning outcomes. Gamification turns learning into an exciting game, making it more attractive and accessible to various age categories of students (students, cadets, trainees for advanced training and professional retraining). Educational practice shows that the use of gaming technologies and gamification increases the social activity of students and cadets, increases their learning interest and motivation, allows them to determine the area of immediate professional and personal development of students, significantly complements classical learning, specifies individual and group goals in teaching subjects of educational activity, in a broad sense – forms relevant professional competencies. significant for future professional activity.
Formation of humanitarian thinking in future civil engineers in the process of studying general engineering disciplines
Authors: Mandzhieva Antonina
Published: January 2025

In modern conditions of the need to increase the prestige of an engineer and build innovative engineering in our country, there is a great demand for a professional with humanitarian thinking. Such thinking allows solving engineering problems taking into account the value-semantic component and subjective factors. As the analysis of the existing system of training future engineers shows, the task of forming humanitarian thinking in students is not actually set, and the humanitarization of engineering education is correlated either with an increase in the share of humanitarian disciplines, or with forms of the educational process that involve training some universal skills. The problem of the research is to identify, from the standpoint of the methodology of the humanitarian-anthropological and metacognitive approaches, the features of the formation of humanitarian thinking in future civil engineers. In the context of this methodology and based on the analysis of scientific literature devoted to the phenomena of humanitarianism, humanitarian knowledge, thinking and humanitarian thinking, the concepts of "humanitarian thinking" and "humanitarian engineering thinking" are clarified. The novelty of the study is that the experience of humanitarian thinking is revealed in conjunction with the metacognition of the individual and is substantiated as a humanitarian component of the content of engineering education. The conditions for the formation of humanitarian thinking in future civil engineers in the process of studying general engineering disciplines are identified. Such conditions are associated with: the inclusion of dialogic situations in the educational process, the basis of which are metacognitive cues; metaphorization of the material of academic subjects in the course of cognitive activity; the implementation of textual-dialogical technology in classes as the leading pedagogical means of forming the quality under study and a way of actualizing the position of the subject of thinking in students. The article presents the data of a diagnostic survey devoted to identifying the level of humanitarian thinking in 185 students of different courses of the engineering and technology faculty of Kalmyk State University. The results of a formative experiment are presented, which confirmed the provisions of the research hypothesis concerning the change in the qualitative attitude to the profession among students in connection with the experience of humanitarian thinking and the dependence of the level of such thinking on the skills of metacognitive cognition.