bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cancer Screening Profile of the Iranian Population: Findings from STEPS 2021 survey
Authors: Khosravi Sepehr , Rezaei Negar , Ebrahimi Narges , Azadnajafabad Sina , Rahmani Shayan , Rashidi Mohammad-Mahdi , Golestani Ali , Nejadghaderi Seyed Aria , Rezaei Nazila , Ghasemi Erfan , Ahmadi Naser , Farzi Yosef , Kazemi Ameneh , Nasserinejad Maryam , Yoosefi Moein , Mehr Elmira Foroutan , Haghshenas Rosa , Rankohi Azadeh Momen Nia , Djalalinia Shirin , Kompani Farzad , Farzadfar Farshad
Published: October 2024

Background
Cancer is a pressing global health concern, making effective cancer control planning crucial. This is emphasized by the objectives in target 3.4 of the Sustainable Development Goals and the CanScreen 5 project from the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). The objective of this study was to provide a comprehensive overview of breast, cervix, prostate, colorectal cancer screening practices within the Iranian adult population in the year 2021.
Methods
Using nationally and sub-nationally representative STEPS 2021 data, this study included 27,874 participants aged 18 and above from urban and rural Iran. Participants were asked if they had ever undergone screening for breast, cervical, colorectal, or prostate cancer. Socio-demographic factors such as age, sex, employment, marriage status, education, and wealth index were included. Weighted prevalence, mean, SD, and 95% CIs were reported. The 2016 National Population and Housing Census was used for direct age standardization. Univariate and multiple logistic regression estimated crude and adjusted ORs with 95% CIs for cancer screening participation.
Results
The age standardized prevalence of participating in cancer screening programs is as follows: breast cancer (24.99%, 95% CI: 24.22–25.76), cervical cancer (42.16%, 41.29–43.02), colorectal cancer in females (7.50%, 7.03–7.98), colorectal cancer in males (6.16%, 5.69–6.63), and prostate cancer (12.29%, 11.64–12.95). For all cancers, complementary health insurance coverage was associated with higher cancer screening participation. Additionally, for all cancers except breast cancer, basic health insurance was also linked to higher screening participation. In cervical cancer screening, human papillomavirus vaccination and urban residency were associated with higher participation, while for colon cancer in both men and women, rural residency was linked to higher participation, based on the adjusted model.
Conclusion
Cancer screening participation rates in Iran fall below expectations, particularly in meeting targets set by the World Health Organization Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative for 2030 emphasizing to screen at least 70% of women between the age of 35 and 45. Implementing best-buy interventions from the Global Action Plan for Noncommunicable Diseases, scaling up prevention, prioritizing screening and early diagnosis, and strengthening cancer services are essential for improving coverage and participation in cancer screening programs.
Upper Pole versus Non-Upper Pole Puncture Supine PCNL in Yogyakarta Single Center Single Operator Outcome: Stone Free Rate and Complication
Authors: Sabudi I Made Nugraha Gunamanta Sabudi , Soerohardjo Indrawarman
Published: October 2024

Introduction and Objective:
Prevalence of Kidney Stone by time increasing globally, PCNL still one of the options for the treatment. Urologist as The Operator of PCNL could access the stone through the Upper or Non-Upper Calyx of Kidney depending by Operator Preferences and Consideration. Is there any difference outcome accessing PCNL through difference? The Objective of this study is to know the difference of Outcome Upper and Non-Upper Puncture in PCNL especially look for Stone Free Rate and Complication between two groups.
Material and Method:
The study design was retrospective cross sectional with secondary data medical record through ethical clearance procedure. Subjects on this study were all patients who underwent Supine PCNL in Panti Rapih Hospital Yogyakarta which grouped into Upper Pole Puncture and Non-Upper Pole Puncture. Confounding selection of patients were prevented by conditioning of procedure done in one hospital by single operator.
Results
All patients found 646 according to Inclusion Criteria which separated 53 patients into Upper Pole Puncture group and 593 into Non-Upper Pole Puncture group. Stone Free Rate found 559 (86.53%) which 49 (92.45%) from Upper Pole Puncture Group and 510 (86.00%) from Non-Upper Pole Puncture Group. Complication was found in 92 (14.24%) which 8 (15.09%) from Upper Pole Puncture Group and 84 (14.17%) from Non-Upper Pole Puncture Group. Data analyzed Bivariate Cross Tabulation between Puncture Group to Stone Free (P value 0.196) and Bivariate between Puncture Group to Complication Outcome (P value 0.853), both Bivariate Analysis reveal there were no significant relation between Puncture Access. This study showed there was no difference between Upper Pole Puncture and Non-Upper Pole Puncture Supine PCNL to outcome of Stone Free Rate or Complication.
Conclusion
Upper Pole Puncture had no different Stone Free Rate nor Complication compared to Non-Upper Pole Puncture.
Unveiling mechanical interactions between cell division and extracellular matrix in human colonic epithelium organoids: A 4D study using DVC
Authors: Magne Léa , Pottier Thomas , Michel Deborah , Laussu Julien , Bonnet Delphine , Alric Laurent , Segonds Stephane , Recher Gaelle , Bugarin Florian , Ferrand Audrey
Published: October 2024

Cell division is a major event in tissue homeostasis, enabling renewal and regeneration. Stem cells, in particular, play an important role in this homeostasis, thanks to their ability to perform symmetric or asymmetric cell divisions. To study cell division, the human colon epithelium represents a model of choice due to its rapid renewal and therefore high proliferative potential. Currently, studying the live mechanical interactions between the epithelium and its matrix in vivo is challenging due to the lack of suitable methods. 3D human colon organoids seeded in Matrigel® are good models for this purpose as, from isolated stem cells, they recapitulate the tissue architecture organization and properties. This culture set-up also allows to study the matrix displacements around the organoid. Here, we studied the impact of cell division within the colonic epithelium on the extracellular matrix. We performed and validated an original experimental and analytical process with a 3D time-lapse confocal microscopy to follow cell mitosis and matrix movements on which we performed Digital Volume Correlation. We showed that these two different types of cell division impact the matrix differently with the asymmetric divisions causing a mainly uniaxial displacement, whereas symmetric ones involved a multiaxial and more important one.
A Randomized Pilot Study On The Effects Of A Socially Assistive Robot Intervention On Surgery Patients' Engagement, Perceived Quality of Care, And Quality Of Life
Authors: Mlakar Izidor , Smrke Urška , Šafran Valentino , Roj Igor Robert , Ilijevec Bojan , Horvat Samo , Flis Vojko , Plohl Nejc
Published: October 2024

Aims and Objective: The study aimed to evaluate the feasibility and preliminary effects of a SAR intervention on patient engagement, perceived quality of care, and health-related quality of life in surgical wards.
Background: The healthcare sector faces significant challenges, including workforce shortages and increasing demands. Socially Assistive Robots (SARs) have emerged as a potential solution to enhance patient outcomes, such as engagement, perceived quality of care, and health-related quality of life. However, their implementation in hospital wards remains largely unexplored.
Methods: We conducted a randomized trial in the thoracic surgery and abdominal and general surgery wards in the University Medical Center Maribor. Patients (N = 229) were allocated to either the SAR intervention group (standard care + SAR) or the control group receiving only standard care. The SAR intervention involved daily interactions for patient education and support. Outcomes included patient engagement , perceived quality of care, and health-related quality of life. We additionally explored the moderators that may alter the effects of the intervention.
Results: The overall retention rate was 78.2% (90.1% in control and 66.9% in intervention), and the overall retention of patients from baseline to post-intervention was 86.9% (90.1% in control and 83.2% in intervention) demonstrating feasibility rather than attrition. While overall changes in patient engagement were not statistically significant, the intervention group showed a slight increase compared to a decrease in the control group. Perceived quality of care decreased significantly in both groups. The SAR intervention had a significant positive effect on pain/discomfort management. The department and acceptance of robots moderated the intervention's impact on patient engagement.
Conclusions: The study demonstrates the feasibility of implementing SAR interventions in surgical wards. While the observed overall effects on patient engagement and perceived care quality were limited, the positive impact on pain management and the moderating effects of contextual factors highlight the potential of SAR in specific domains. Furthermore, we did not detect any negative effects of the intervention. Future research should consider longer intervention periods, larger sample sizes, and more department-specific applications to fully realize the benefits of SAR in surgical care settings.
Clinical Characteristics of Tic Disorders in Children and Adolescents with the Chief Complaint of Abnormal Blinking
Authors: Tang Na , Wang Yunjiao , Jiang XiaoHan , Liu Huan , Li Yan , Qu Jia , Xiang Shengjin
Published: October 2024

Background
Abnormal blinking is a common symptom shared by allergic conjunctivitis (AC), dry eye disease (DED), and tic disorders (TD). This study explored clinical manifestations of TD in patients with the chief complaint of abnormal blinking; its goal was to reduce misdiagnosis and missed diagnosis.
Methods
In total, 1054 patients with the chief complaint of abnormal blinking completed a questionnaire and underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examinations and mental health assessments. Questionnaire data were compiled for patients with a confirmed diagnosis of TD; their clinical characteristics were analyzed.
Results
Of the 1054 patients presenting with abnormal blinking, 453 (42.98%) were diagnosed with a TD. Among these 453 patients, 253 (55.63%) had transient tic disorder (TTD). 121 (26.71%) patients initially were misdiagnosed (primarily with AC) or experienced a missed diagnosis; Patients with TTD were more likely to seek ophthalmologic care, whereas those with CTD or TS were more likely to visit a pediatrician(P < 0.001). The predominant eye tics were excessive and/or frequent blinking; 438 (96.69%) patients exhibited tics other than eye tics. Among the TD patients, 371 (81.90%) reported ocular symptoms, whereas 336 (74.17%) had comorbid eye diseases including AC and DED. TTD patients with AC had higher incidences of allergic rhinitis and asthma compared with patients displaying CTD and TS (P < 0.05).
Conclusions
TD are major causes of abnormal blinking, and TTD is the most common subtype. TD patients with abnormal blinking often have comorbid eye diseases, primarily AC and DED.
A worldwide mapping of the technical potential for floating urban development offshore
Authors: Bikker Lieke , Fishman Tomer , Wang Gil
Published: October 2024

Land scarcity, population growth, climate change adaptation, sustainability development goals, and disaster mitigation in coastal cities are some of the main factors motivating research on large floating solutions for urban needs. For three decades, conceptual and fundamental studies have explored the field of large floating solutions from various technological perspectives, providing mainly proof-of-concept for this novel approach. However, little is currently known about the actual potential and the scale of implementation for urban development offshore. Using a parametric worldwide GIS model, this research evaluates the concept of modular floating structures (MFS), designed for sustainable offshore urban development, on a global scale. It shows that MFS technology could potentially house up to one third of the current global population in the adjacent marine environment of coastal cities, providing a sustainable alternative to alleviate the pressure of onshore development and its associated impacts using only 0.05% of ocean space.
Global, regional, and national health inequalities in hepatitis B virus-related liver cancer in 204 countries, 1990-2021
Authors: Wu Dongjie , Guo Ziwei , Liu Jing , Wang Liang , Yang Lan , Mao Runhan , Lu Yanping , Lyu Wenliang
Published: October 2024

Background
Hepatitis B virus-related liver cancer (HBV-LC) is a significant public health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Despite advancements in vaccination and antiviral therapies, global disparities persist.
Objective
This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the global, regional, and national burden of HBV-LC from 1990 to 2021 and projects future trends to 2036, using data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021 study.
Methods
Data on prevalence, incidence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were extracted from GBD 2021. Joinpoint regression was used to analyze trends, and Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) models were employed to forecast future burden.
Results
In 2021, an estimated 288,106 global cases of HBV-LC were reported, with an age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR) of 3.32 per 100,000 people. The global incidence rate (ASIR) was 2.37 per 100,000, while the mortality rate (ASMR) was 2.09 per 100,000. From 1990 to 2021, the ASIR declined by 0.22%, and the DALYs decreased by 0.79 years per 100,000. The highest burden was observed in East Asia and the High-income Asia Pacific region, while the lower SDI regions experienced more significant mortality. Projections from the BAPC model indicate continued declines in both ASIR and ASMR through 2036, particularly among females.
Conclusion
This study highlights a global reduction in the HBV-LC burden over the past three decades, yet significant disparities remain between regions. Future efforts should focus on expanding access to vaccination and antiviral therapies in low-SDI areas to further mitigate the disease burden.
SMARCAL1: a DNA repair protein recruited to double-strand breaks at stalled replication forks to promote genome stability through a homologous recombination pathway
Authors: Safa Amin , Cárdenas Paula P , Perrig Melina Soledad , Chaparro-García Rebeca , Román-Ortiz Elena , Sánchez-Ramón Silvia , Diego Rebeca Pérez , Recio María J.
Published: October 2024

To create an exact copy of the entire genome, replication should be completed promptly and accurately. However, obstacles can arise during replication that can cause genotoxic fork stalling. The DNA damage response pathway plays a crucial role in preventing fork collapse by stabilizing the stalled fork, regulating DNA repair, and promoting replication restart. There are multiple pathways to recover stalled replication forks, including double-strand break (DSB)-mediated recovery. SMARCAL1, a damage-binding protein involved in stabilizing stalled replication forks during DNA repair, is recruited to replication forks via interaction with replication protein A (RPA), the major ssDNA-binding protein in eukaryotic cells; however, the process by which it promotes DSB repair is poorly understood. Here, we present cellular and biochemical evidence that SMARCAL1 c.1920_1921insG frameshift mutation impairs SMARCAL1 protein expression causing defects in DNA damage response and hypersensitivity to several genotoxic agents that cause DSBs and replication fork collapse in a patient with Schimke immuno-osseous dysplasia. We analyzed the role of SMARCAL1 in the two major DNA DSB repair pathways, homologous recombination (HR) and nonhomologous end-joining (NHEJ). γ-H2AX foci repair kinetics analysis and survival experiments performed in SMARCAL1-deficient fibroblasts point to an essential role for SMARCAL1 in repairing DSBs generated in the S/G2 phase cell cycle as a result of oxidative damage and replication stress. The contribution to survival of SMARCAL1-dependent DSB rejoining in the S/G2 phase cell cycle suggests that SMARCAL1 is a novel damage repair protein involved in the HR pathway.
Spatial Analysis of Urban Expansion and Temperature Dynamics in the Kolkata Metropolitan Area
Authors: Saha Gourab , Das Dipendra Nath , Banerjee Anushna , Singh Piyush
Published: October 2024

Urbanization in Southeast Asia, particularly in India, has witnessed rapid growth driven by demographic, economic, and socio-political factors. Kolkata, as a prominent urban center, exemplifies this trend, experiencing substantial urban expansion and consequent changes in land use and land cover (LULC), leading to elevated Land Surface Temperature (LST) levels. This study investigates the spatio-temporal dynamics of land transformation and its influence on LST distribution in Kolkata and its suburban areas over 22 years (2000–2022). Using remote sensing and GIS techniques, we analyze Landsat data to assess LULC changes and their correlation with LST. Additionally, we examine seasonal LST variations in relation to land use characteristics, employing various spectral indices. The findings reveal significant LULC alterations, including the reduction of green spaces and the expansion of built-up areas, contributing to higher LST levels and the development of Urban Heat Island (UHI) effects. This research underscores the adverse implications of escalating LST on urban environmental quality and public health. Additionally. it emphasizes the importance of environmental sustainability initiatives in urban planning to mitigate UHI impacts and enhance residents' well-being. The methodological advancements presented here hold promise for ongoing monitoring of environmental quality and urban heat dynamics, aiding future decision-making processes.
Tenofovir Alafenamide versus Entecavir in the Treatment of Renal Safety in Patients with Chronic Hepatitis B: An Observational Study
Authors: Zhou ding ying , Zhong Lianghui , Mao Yaqian , Zhang Lunli , Zhong Yuanbin
Published: October 2024

Background and aims: Urinary α1-microglobulin (α1-MG), β2-microglobulin (β2-MG), urinary N-acetyl-β-glucosaminidase (NAG) and retinol-binding protein (RBP) have predictive effects on renal tubular injury, the purpose of this study is to investigate whether the renal tubular abnormalities in chronic hepatitis B (CHB) patients during long-term entecavir (ETV) treatment cloud be improved after altering to tenofovir alafenamide(TAF).
Methods：This study included 224 CHB patients of abnormal renal tubular markers from June 2022 to September 2023, of which 122 patients continuing ETV and 102 patients of altering to TAF for 6 months. Propensity score matching was used to analyze the differences of renal tubular indexes between the continuing ETV treatment and altering to TAF treatment.
Results: A 1:1 propensity score match yielded 62 patients in each treatment group.The baseline characteristics, the ratio of complete virology respond,liver blood phosphorus, the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), α1-MG, β2-MG, NAG, RBP were comparable between the two groups. After 6 months, the level of eGFR(ETV:101.5mL/(min*1.73m2),TAF:100.1mL/(min*1.73m2),p>0.05),RBP(△ETV -0.159 △TAF -0.213,p>0.05), the ratio of complete virology response(ETV 87.1% TAF 91.9%,P< 0.05) were statistically different.The difference ratio of α1-MG, β2-MG, NAG, blood phosphorus was statistically significant（p<0.05）。TAF decreased more than ETV in α1-MG, β2-MG, NAG indicators(△ETV: -4.016, -0.373,-0.852, △TAF: -12.050, -1.272, -5.583），TAF increased less than ETV in blood phosphorus (△ETV +0.019, △TAF -0.286）。
Conclusion: Altering to TAF of CHB patients with renal tubular abnormalities after long-term use of ETV , the treatment efficacy and renal tubular damage can be improved, indicating that TAF has better renal safety than ETV.
Ki-67 expression in anti-programmed cell death protein-1 antibody-bound CD8+ T cells as a predictor of clinical benefit
Authors: Tsurui Toshiaki , Hosonuma Masahiro , Sasaki Aya , Maruyama Yuuki , Amari Yasunobu , Funayama Eiji , Tajima Kohei , Toyoda Hitoshi , Isobe Junya , Yamazaki Yoshitaka , Baba Yuta , Shida Midori , Udaka Yuko , Mura Emiko , Suzuki Risako , Iriguchi Nana , Ishiguro Tomoyuki , Hirasawa Yuya , Ohkuma Ryotaro , Shimokawa Masahiro , Ariizumi Hirotsugu , Kubota Yutaro , Horiike Atsushi , Wada Satoshi , Kuramasu Atsuo , Tsuji Mayumi , Kiuchi Yuji , Tsunoda Takuya , Yoshimura Kiyoshi
Published: October 2024

Aims
Developing predictive biomarkers for immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) is important. Programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) receptor occupancy by anti-PD-1 antibodies on circulating T cells varies among patients. However, the association between the exhaustion of these antibody-bound T cells and the clinical efficacy of ICIs remains unknown. Therefore, the present study was aimed at evaluating this association.
Methods
This prospective cohort study included patients with advanced non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) and esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) who received pembrolizumab therapy. Peripheral blood samples were collected during the second cycle of chemotherapy. We analyzed the relationship between exhaustion markers in pembrolizumab-bound (PB) T cells and clinical response.
Results
A total of 21 patients were analyzed, including 12 patients with NSCLC and 9 patients with ESCC. The expression of Ki-67 in PB-CD8+ TCM and TEM was negatively correlated with both clinical response and overall survival.
Conclusion
The expression of Ki-67 of PB-CD8+ TCM and TEM can serve as a predictive biomarker for the clinical benefit of pembrolizumab therapy. Our study suggests that analyzing antibody-bound T cells could be a novel approach to predict the clinical outcomes of PD-1 blockade therapy.
Improving the accuracy of pose prediction by incorporating symmetry-related molecules
Authors: Hima Sree , Remya Chandran , Dileep K. V.
Published: October 2024

Accurate prediction of biologically relevant binding poses is crucial for the success of computer-aided drug development. In this study, we describe a general strategy to enhance the precision of pose prediction in molecular docking by incorporating symmetry-related molecules (SRMs). Our objective was to demonstrate the significant impact of SRMs on the accuracy of pose prediction. To achieve this, we evaluated our method on high-quality protein-ligand complex structures, focusing on the presence and absence of SRMs during molecular docking studies. We have extracted the co-crystal ligands from the selected crystal structure and were redocked in presence and absence of SRM to assess their influence. Additionally, we calculated the free energy of the docked poses using the Molecular Mechanics Generalized Born Surface Area (MM-GBSA) method, comparing the results in the presence and absence of SRMs. The findings revealed that redocking performed in the presence of SRMs significantly improved the prediction of biologically significant/crystallographically relevant poses. Consequently, our proposed strategy offers a robust method for enhancing pose prediction in current molecular docking programs, potentially leading to more effective and reliable drug development processes.
REMFLOW: RAG-Enhanced Multi-Factor Rainfall Flooding Warning in Sponge Airports via Large Language Model
Authors: Wang Gelan , Liu Yu , Liu Shukai , Zhang Ling , Yang Liqun
Published: October 2024

The integration of rainfall flooding data, particularly with the development and application of the Storm Water Management Model (SWMM), has significantly enhanced the predictive capabilities of flood warning systems. However, existing models often lack relevant environmental context, leading to the incorporation of external knowledge bases. Previous machine learning approaches have primarily focused on structured knowledge, neglecting unstructured data and high-dimensional semantic information. To address these issues, we propose REMFLOW, a Retrieval-Augmented Generation (RAG) framework designed to improve the analysis and application of multi-factor rainfall flooding data. We employ an embedding model to encode time-series flood data, which is then stored in a knowledge base. Simultaneously, a Large Language Model (LLM) is used to encode multi-factor rainfall flooding data and retrieve relevant knowledge. Subsequently, an adaptive context fusion mechanism is applied to integrate the extracted knowledge and generate the final outputs. Experimental results from various rainfall flooding prediction tasks demonstrate that the REMFLOW framework significantly outperforms baseline models in the precise predictive analysis of multi-factor rainfall flooding data, highlighting its effectiveness.
Mode shapes and sensitivity analysis of torsional vibrations in overhang- and T-shaped microcantilevers
Authors: Dat Le Tri , Pham Vinh N.T. , Vy Nguyen Duy , Payam Amir F.
Published: October 2024

The torsional mode of atomic force microscope (AFM) cantilevers has been extensively employed in a range of sensitive measurements. However, the use of approximate frequencies and mode shapes for overhang-shaped cantilevers often leads to discrepancies between theoretical predictions and experimental results. In this study, we performed detailed calculations of the frequency and mode shapes for width-varying cantilevers, enabling the determination of any higher-order mode. Modal sensitivities were then calculated based on the obtained mode shapes. We observed clear changes in mode shapes and frequencies, with mode shapes exhibiting multiple maxima as the overhang length increased. Notably, effective tuning of the frequency was demonstrated by adjusting the overhang length. The relationship between modal sensitivity and the coupling strength between the cantilever and a surface was elucidated, showing consistency with results from other groups. This work provides valuable guidance for experimentalists in selecting optimal geometric parameters for cantilevers to target specific frequencies.
Spatial patterns and conservation gaps of Fritillaria species in China
Authors: Ullah Fazal , Saqib Saddam , Temur Asatulloev , Xiong You-Cai
Published: October 2024

The genus Fritillaria, a well-known Chinese traditional medicine used for over 2000 years, is primarily distributed across the temperate regions of China and is one of the threatened genera due to climate change, habitat loss, and excessive harvesting. These perennial bulbous plants are important for their ornamental beauty and traditional medicinal uses. To provide a scientific guide for Fritillaria conservation, this study explores the diversity patterns of 21 species across China using three diversity indices (species richness (SR), weighted endemism (WE), and β-diversity) with a spatial resolution of 100 X 100 km2. The top 5% richness and complementary algorithms were used to identify diversity hotspots and conservation gaps were recognized by overlapping the diversity hotspots with Chinese nature reserves. Our results indicate that Fritillaria SR and WE are high in central and southwestern China, particularly in Sichuan and Yunnan provinces. The β-diversity is scattered across these regions, suggesting different species compositions among grid cells. We identified 145 grids as diversity hotspots for Fritillaria species in China, with significant overlap in Sichuan and Yunnan. The first-level diversity hotspots include over 70% of the Endangered (EN) and Vulnerable (VU) Fritillaria species and are the priority areas for conservation. However, only 24% of the diversity hotspots fall within nature reserves, and many regions, especially in Zhejiang, Guizhou, and Fujian, have less than 20% of diversity hotspots covered by protected areas. Using multiple diversity indices and algorithms, our study identifies critical diversity hotspots and conservation gaps for Fritillaria species in China. These findings provide a scientific basis for targeted conservation strategies to protect these valuable plants and their habitats, particularly in regions with high biodiversity and significant conservation gaps.
Imbalance in Redox Homeostasis is Associated with Neurodegeneration in the Murine Model of Tay-Sachs Disease
Authors: Basırlı Hande , Ateş Nurselin , Seyrantepe Volkan
Published: October 2024

Background
Tay-Sachs disease is a type of neurodegenerative disorder with a build-up of GM2 ganglioside in the brain, which results in progressive central nervous system dysfunction. Our group recently generated Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice, a murine model with neuropathological abnormalities similar to the infantile form of Tay-Sachs disease. Previously, we reported progressive neurodegeneration with neuronal loss in the brain sections of Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice. However, the relationship of the severity of neurodegeneration to imbalance in redox homeostasis has not been clarified in Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice. Here, we evaluated whether neurodegeneration is associated with oxidative stress in the tissues and cells of Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice and neuroglia cells from Tay-Sachs patients.
Methods and Results
In four brain regions and fibroblasts of 5-month-old WT, Hexa-/-, Neu3-/-, and Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice and human neuroglia cells, apoptosis and oxidative stress-related markers were evaluated using Western blot, RT-PCR, and immunohistochemistry analyses. We further analyzed oxidative stress levels using flow cytometry analyses. We discovered neuronal death, alterations in intracellular ROS levels, and damaging effects of oxidative stress, especially in the cerebellum and fibroblasts of Hexa-/-Neu3-/- mice.
Conclusions
Our results showed that alteration in redox homeostasis might be related to neurodegeneration in the murine model of Tay-Sachs Disease. These findings suggest that targeting the altered redox balance and increased oxidative stress might be a rational therapeutic approach for alleviating neurodegeneration and treating Tay-Sachs disease.
Comparative Evaluation of the Effects of Diclofenac Sodium and Vitamin D Supplementation on Symptoms in Individuals With Myofascial Pain and Vitamin D Deficiency
Authors: KAHRAMAN Nazlı Hilal , TUNÇ Serap KESKİN
Published: October 2024

Background: Temporomandibular joint disorders are significant health issues characterized by dysfunctions in the masticatory muscles and the temporomandibular joint. These disorders are often associated with stress, oral parafunctions, and habits such as bruxism. Treating bruxism and other parafunctional habits can reduce symptoms of myofascial pain. While the etiology of bruxism remains unclear, psychological factors like stress and anxiety, along with central nervous system, are thought that it will provoke. Additionally, a significant relationship has been reported between low serum vitamin D levels and bruxism.
Methods: The aim of this study is to comparatively evaluate the effectiveness of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug treatment and vitamin D supplementation on symptoms in individuals with myofascial pain and vitamin D deficiency. Two different treatment methods were applied to the patients. One group received medical treatment with diclofenac sodium and an occlusal splint. The other group received vitamin D supplementation and an occlusal splint. The patients' mouth opening and pain scores were evaluated.
Results: The results obtained are homogeneous in both groups.
Conclusions: Vitamin D may serve as an alternative with anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects compared to NSAIDs.
Trial registration: This study was approved by the Van Yüzüncü Yıl University Faculty of Medicine Clinical Research Ethics Committee (May 18, 2022, decision no: 05).
Computational modeling of vaccination strategies for infectious disease control: Insights from network-based simulations
Authors: Branda Francesco , Veltri Pierangelo , Chiodo Francesco , Ciccozzi Massimo , Scarpa Fabio , Guzzi Pietro Hiram
Published: October 2024

Background Computational modeling of disease transmission is crucial for understanding the dynamics of infectious outbreaks and assessing the effectiveness of control measures. These models offer valuable insights into the factors influencing disease spread, enabling public health authorities to develop effective containment strategies. Vaccination is among the most impactful interventions in controlling disease transmission and has proven essential in preventing the spread of contagious diseases such as measles. However, recent trends indicate a concerning decline in the fraction of vaccinated individuals in various populations, increasing the risk of outbreaks.
Methods In this study, we utilize computational simulations on graph-based models to analyze how vaccination affects the spread of infectious diseases. By representing populations as networks in which individuals (nodes) are connected by potential transmission pathways (edges), we simulate different vaccination coverage scenarios and assess their impact on disease propagation. Our simulations incorporate high and low vaccination coverage to reflect real-world trends and explore various conditions under which disease transmission can be effectively blocked.
Results The results demonstrate that adequate vaccination coverage is critical for halting outbreaks, with a marked reduction in disease transmission observed as the fraction of vaccinated individuals increases. Conversely, insufficient vaccination rates lead to widespread outbreaks, underscoring the importance of maintaining high vaccination levels to achieve herd immunity and prevent resurgence. These findings highlight the vital role of vaccination as a preventative tool and emphasize the potential risks posed by declining vaccination rates.
Conclusion This study provides a deeper understanding of how vaccination strategies can mitigate the spread of infectious diseases and serves as a reminder of the importance of maintaining robust immunization programs to protect public health.
Savannah Bengal Tiger Optimization (SBTO): A Novel Metaheuristic Algorithm for Constrained Optimization Problems
Authors: Sun Yujing , Xu Xingguo
Published: October 2024

This paper introduces a novel optimizer based on animal survival experiments called Savannah Bengal Tiger Optimization (SBTO). Inspired by the survival behavior of Bengal tigers on the African savannah, SBTO aims to address continuous complex constrained optimization problems. SBTO simulates the group hunting behavior of Bengal tigers and integrates the support of Kalman filters, employing three strategies: prey search, stealth approach, and hunting. The prey search strategy reflects SBTO's exploration capabilities, while the stealth approach and hunting strategies primarily demonstrate its exploitation capabilities. Compared to other metaheuristic algorithms, SBTO has an advantage in population distribution, maintaining good exploration performance while performing exploitation, which helps the algorithm escape local optima in a timely manner. Finally, SBTO was experimentally evaluated against 10 popular algorithms and recently proposed algorithms on CEC2017, CEC2020, CEC2022 test functions, and 9 engineering problems. The results indicate that SBTO achieved the best fitness ratio of 27/30, 8/10, and 8/12 in the test functions, with Wilcoxon rank-sum tests showing significance proportions of 260/300, 89/100, and 104/120, respectively. In the 9 engineering problems, SBTO obtained the best average and optimal fitness in 7 problems, demonstrating exceptional performance in constrained optimization problems and complex multi-modal functions. The source code for SBTO is publicly available at https://www.mathworks.com/matlabcentral/fileexchange/172500-sbto.
The Rolling Stone: Migration of an Intrauterine Device Leading to Bladder Stone Formation Nine Years after Insertion: A Case Report
Authors: Malki Elie G. , Sbeih Dina , Bael Peter , Alsarabta Haitham , Alzawahra Ahmad
Published: October 2024

BackgroundIntrauterine devices are safe, affordable, convenient, and the most common form of contraception used by females of childbearing age. A rare complication of intrauterine devices is migration to nearby structures, rarely the urinary bladder, leading to bladder stone formation.Case PresentationA 34-year-old female patient presented due to repeated urinary tract infections and flank pain associated with lower urinary tract symptoms, including dysuria, frequency, and gross hematuria. Subsequent laboratory tests revealed a past medical history of iron-deficiency anemia. Urinalysis revealed hematuria and pyuria, and the urine culture confirmed colonization ofEscherichia coli. Computed tomography revealed an irregularly shaped 5.5 cm hyperdense, suspicious-looking stone in the urinary bladder. Open cystolithotomy was done to extract the stone, which was later incidentally revealed to be a stone formed around a migrated intrauterine device.ConclusionsThe case highlights the rare potential of intrauterine devices to migrate to the urinary bladder and lead to stone formation, which, in this case, was discovered nine years after intrauterine device insertion. The perforation was due to delayed inflammatory migration from the uterine cavity to the urinary bladder lumen. This case emphasizes the need to educate the patient after intrauterine device placement and increase patient and physician awareness to recognize the warning signs of intrauterine device migration.
Pb2+ boost peroxidase-like activity of Cu,Fe-TA nanozyme coupled with dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction for selective detection of zearalenone in food samples
Authors: Zhao Xiaorong , Li Jitao , Zhong Zitao , Yang Dezhi , Yang Yaling
Published: October 2024

In this paper, a Fe,Cu-based tannic acid (TA) nanozymes (Cu,Fe-TA) with peroxidase-like (POD-like) activity had been successfully prepared via a formaldehyde-assistant metal-ligand crosslinking strategy. Cu,Fe-TA showed stronger POD-like catalytic activity compared with single Cu-TA and Fe-TA nanozyme. This result indicated that Cu and Fe atoms synergistically promote the enzymatic performance of the nanozymes. Intriguingly, Pb2+ could significantly enhance the POD-like activity of Cu,Fe-TA by accelerating the electron transfer between 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethylbenzidine (TMB) and H2O2, and could also improve the conversion efficiency between Fe3+ and Fe2+ to promote the generation of hydroxyl radical (·OH). While zearalenone (ZEN) was added, POD-like activity of Cu,Fe-TA/Pb2+ system could be strongly hindered because of the formation of the more stable complex ZEN-Pb2+. Especially, for the complex sample of peanut oil, we combined the microextraction technique to separate and extract the ZEN, the high sensitivity and selectivity colorimetric detection of Pb2+ and ZEN were realized.
MRI-Based Quantitative Analysis of Placenta and Fetal Brain in Small-for-Gestational-Age Pregnancies: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Xia Bingqing , Jiang Ling , Qian Zhaoxia , Qu Feifei , Wu Jiangjie , Wei Hongjiang , Sun Taotao
Published: October 2024

Background: Small-for-gestational-age (SGA) pregnancy is often associated with impaired placental function, which would lead to neurodevelopmental deficits.
Objective: To utilize the geometric properties of cortical development for quantitative analysis of the relationship between impaired placental function and fetal brain development in pregnancies with small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses.
Materials and methods: This retrospective study included 41 pregnant women with appropriate gestational age (range: 23-38.6 weeks) and 26 pregnant women with SGA pregnancies (range: 23.3-36.3 weeks). After the exclusion of 25 participants with normal fetal brain data but noticeable motor artifacts, 29 fetal brains from the normal group and 16 fetal brains from the SGA group were included in this analysis. Examinations were conducted using a 1.5 T magnetic resonance imaging system. Fetal brain cortical thickness and regional volume were calculated for each participant, according to a standardized anatomical atlas. Placental intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) imaging and T2* mapping were performed. IVIM parameters (perfusion fraction [FP], perfusion diffusivity coefficient [DP], and tissue diffusivity [D]) and T2* parameters were subsequently analyzed.
Results: FP and T2* values were significantly lower in SGA pregnancies than in the control group (p<0.05), indicating impaired placental growth. Nine regions of cortical thickness exhibited significant differences (p<0.05) between the normal and the SGA groups. In the control group, 30 of 86 brain regions (34.88%) exhibited moderate or strong correlations between cortical thickness and T2* values. Among these regions, 19 were in the right hemisphere, whereas 11 were in the left hemisphere.
Conclusion: Quantitative assessment of changes in placental function and fetal brain cortical thickness is feasible and may provide valuable pathophysiological insights.
Multivariate Analysis of Evaporation Drivers in Mbeya, Tanzania Using Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Katambara Zacharia
Published: October 2024

Evaporation is a critical process in the hydrological cycle, contributing to approximately 70% of the water loss from Earth's surface. Understanding the drivers of evaporation, including meteorological factors like temperature, humidity, solar radiation, and wind speed, is essential for water resource management and agriculture. Traditional univariate models often oversimplify these interactions, but Principal Component Analysis (PCA) offers a powerful multivariate approach for analysing complex datasets. This study applies PCA to 10 years of meteorological data from Mbeya, Tanzania, including maximum and minimum temperature, wind speed, and solar radiation, to identify key factors influencing evaporation. The analysis highlights that solar radiation (mean = 17.60, SD = 6.01) and sunshine hours (mean = 6.96, SD = 2.87) are the most significant drivers, with strong positive loadings on Principal Component 1 (0.88 and 0.89, respectively). temperature also plays a crucial role, with maximum temperature (mean = 24.16, SD = 2.07) loading heavily on Principal Component 2 (0.75). Together, the first two components explain 60.32% of the total variance. The results demonstrate that PCA effectively reduces dimensionality, providing clearer insights into the dominant meteorological factors affecting evaporation. This dimensionality reduction not only simplifies complex relationships but also improves model predictions, making PCA a valuable tool in environmental studies.
Sodium arsenite altered the parameters of oxidative stress and induced carcinogenesis and neurotoxicity in Canton-S Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Oche Jane-Rose I. , Dabak Jonathan D. , Johnson Titilayo O.
Published: October 2024

Arsenite, an inorganic arsenic compound, is not only acutely toxic but also plays a role in carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, hepatotoxicity, and inflammation. It can also lead to various skin disorders. Drosophila melanogaster, commonly known as the fruit fly, serves as a cost-effective and efficient model organism for studying chemical-induced toxicity. This study aimed to investigate the toxic effects of sodium arsenite using Drosophila melanogaster as a model. We exposed fruit flies to increasing doses of sodium arsenite (0.03 mM, 0.06 mM, 0.12 mM, and 0.14 mM) and assessed the impacts on survival rates; oxidative stress marker levels; gene expression; and histological changes in the brain, gastrointestinal tract, and fat body over 21 days. Additionally, we examined morphological changes. Our findings indicate that exposure to sodium arsenite significantly reduces survival rates and increases oxidative stress, leading to cellular damage similar to that observed in cancer and certain neurodegenerative diseases. Histological examinations revealed structural changes in the brain, suggesting potential pathways for neurotoxicity and alterations in enterocytes that may be indicative of cancer. Changes in the fat body imply compromised energy metabolism and fat storage. These results highlight Drosophila as a valuable model for studying the carcinogenicity, neurotoxicity, and ovotoxicity induced by sodium arsenite, thus facilitating the development of treatment and prevention strategies.
Methods of Teaching Russian Derivation as a Basis for Expanding the Vocabulary of Foreign Medical Students
Authors:   Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky, Prokofyeva Larisa P. , Filtsova Marina S. ,   Saratov State Medical University named after V. I. Razumovsky
Published: October 2024

The article raises the pedagogical problem of creating an integrated system of training foreign students receiving higher medical education using an intermediary language (English) for the state final certification, which takes place in Russian. The analysis of the texts of situational tasks in examination disciplines (therapy, surgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics) allowed us to identify their standard structure with the allocation of a finite number of typical syntactic blocks in the tasks, which allowed us to focus on their lexical content and, above all, on the systemic word-formation analysis of different parts of speech, understanding the meanings of words and their significant parts. The formation of students’ systematic understanding of language occurs through the use of functional-communicative, structural-semantic, component methods, modeling methods in word-formation refraction, methods of systematization and classification of word-formation material. This is facilitated by the innovative generalizing course “Scientific activity of a doctor” (8–10 semesters) developed by the authors, the purpose of which is to create motivational attitudes that ensure the use of system data of derivatology in teaching Russian as a foreign language. It is concluded that the creation of an idea of the Russian word structure and its assimilation, form the ability to correlate the basics of different types, to identify word-formation morphemes that make it possible to predict the meaning of previously unknown words and facilitate the understanding of a complex special text of clinical situational tasks, which contributes to the formation of a professional terminological dictionary of a medical university student. It is confirmed that methodological techniques that ensure knowledge of the semantics of communicatively significant derived lexical units make it possible to fully perceive and generate speech. Keywords: methods of teaching, derivation, linguodidactics, professional communication, bilingual education