bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Removal technologies of microplastics in soil and water environments: review on sources, ecotoxicity, and removal technologies
Authors: Yang Ji Won , Park Chanhyuk , Jho Eun Hea 
Published: December 2024

AbstractMicroplastics (MP) in the environment has attracted extensive attention due to their ubiquitous occurrence and potential toxic effects; but less attention has been given to the removal technologies of MP in different environmental media. This review covers the sources, ecotoxicities, and removal technologies of MP in soil and water environments reported in previous studies to derive the future research directions for MP removal technologies. Previous studies reported various sources contribute to MP present in soil and water environments, indicating that the source control may be a better strategy than contaminated media treatment for management of MP contamination. Similarly, different terrestrial and aquatic organisms have been used to determine the toxic effects of MP with different characteristics. Previous ecotoxicity studies of MP on soil organisms cover only a small number of species compared to that of MP on aquatic organisms. Therefore, further studies are necessary to investigate the ecotoxic effects of MP on a broader range of soil organisms. Also, since the characteristics of MP are diverse, more ecotoxicity studies in both water and soil environments are required. The review provides an overview of various removal technologies for MP in soil and water and identifies gaps in existing studies. Although more studies have been conducted for removal of MP in water than in soil, they remain in their early stages. More studies are needed for removal of MP removal in soil than in water. With MP in water, most studies have been carried out on a lab scale with artificial wastewaters, thus, studies with natural waters in a pilot or field scale are required. Overall, this review highlights the need for further studies on MP removal technologies for real world applications.
Viral sepsis: diagnosis, clinical features, pathogenesis, and clinical considerations
Authors: Xu Ji-Qian , Zhang Wan-Ying , Fu Jia-Ji , Fang Xiang-Zhi , Gao Cheng-Gang , Li Chang , Yao Lu , Li Qi-Lan , Yang Xiao-Bo , Ren Le-Hao , Shu Hua-Qing , Peng Ke , Wu Ying , Zhang Ding-Yu , Qiu Yang , Zhou Xi , Yao Yong-Ming , Shang You 
Published: December 2024

AbstractSepsis, characterized as life-threatening organ dysfunction resulting from dysregulated host responses to infection, remains a significant challenge in clinical practice. Despite advancements in understanding host-bacterial interactions, molecular responses, and therapeutic approaches, the mortality rate associated with sepsis has consistently ranged between 10 and 16%. This elevated mortality highlights critical gaps in our comprehension of sepsis etiology. Traditionally linked to bacterial and fungal pathogens, recent outbreaks of acute viral infections, including Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV), influenza virus, and severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), among other regional epidemics, have underscored the role of viral pathogenesis in sepsis, particularly when critically ill patients exhibit classic symptoms indicative of sepsis. However, many cases of viral-induced sepsis are frequently underdiagnosed because standard evaluations typically exclude viral panels. Moreover, these viruses not only activate conventional pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) and retinoic acid-inducible gene-I (RIG-I)-like receptors (RLRs) but also initiate primary antiviral pathways such as cyclic guanosine monophosphate adenosine monophosphate (GMP-AMP) synthase (cGAS)-stimulator of interferon genes (STING) signaling and interferon response mechanisms. Such activations lead to cellular stress, metabolic disturbances, and extensive cell damage that exacerbate tissue injury while leading to a spectrum of clinical manifestations. This complexity poses substantial challenges for the clinical management of affected cases. In this review, we elucidate the definition and diagnosis criteria for viral sepsis while synthesizing current knowledge regarding its etiology, epidemiology, and pathophysiology, molecular mechanisms involved therein as well as their impact on immune-mediated organ damage. Additionally, we discuss clinical considerations related to both existing therapies and advanced treatment interventions, aiming to enhance the comprehensive understanding surrounding viral sepsis.
Adjuvant local antibiotic therapy in the management of diabetic foot osteomyelitis
Authors: Metaoy Sara , Rusu Iulia , Pillai Anand 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
The management of diabetic foot osteomyelitis (DFO) is complex. The targeted use of adjuvant local antibiotics, in the form of biocomposite bone void filler, in DFO, can enhance patient outcomes while minimising the adverse effects associated with systemic antibiotic therapy and its shortcomings.

Methods
We reviewed a series of 105 consecutive patients who underwent surgical management for diabetic foot osteomyelitis. In the NLAB group, (no adjuvant local antibiotic use), 49 patients, received the current standard of care treatment with no use of adjunctive local antibiotic therapy. In group LAB, (adjuvant use of local antibiotics), 56 patients received additional adjuvant local antibiotic therapy. Patient outcomes were compared between both groups.

Results
Infection healing was demonstrated in 10 (20.41%) patients from group NLAB and 41 (73.21%) from group LAB (p < 0.0001). Persistence of infection with no evidence of wound healing, 6 months from surgery, was observed in 15 (30.61%) patients in group NLAB. Among the LAB group, only 4 (7.14%) patients demonstrated infection persistence (p = 0.00183). Reinfection was observed in 24 of 49 patients in group NLAB (49%) and in only 11 out of 56 patients in group LAB (20%) (p = 0.001466). 7 (6.67%) patients required major amputation with 6 (12.24%) belonging to group NLAB. Only 1 (1.78%) patient in group LAB underwent major amputation. A higher 5-year mortality rate was noted within patients in group NLAB, 27 (55.1%). The mortality rate in group LAB was (12.5%).

Conclusion
The adjuvant use of antibiotic loaded bio-composite bone void filler locally was associated with increased infection clearance rates regarding diabetic foot osteomyelitis when compared with the standard care of treatment while achieving lower rates of infection persistence and recurrence. It also has the potential to reduce amputation and mortality rates with further research.
Effect of childhood epilepsy and antiepileptic drugs on visual evoked potential response and optical coherence tomography
Authors: Moussa Amira Ahmed , Nassef Ayman , Nada Maha A. , Karim Marwa A. , Khater Shaimaa S. , El deen Nahed Salah 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Epileptic seizures arise from an excessively synchronous and sustained discharge of a group of neurons. The single feature of all epileptic syndromes is a persistent increase of neuronal excitability. Visual affection in epileptic children could be attributed to the disease itself or the use of anti-epileptic drugs, these changes may involve abnormal electro-physiological response. This biphasic study, conducted at the neuro-pediatric clinic at neurology department, aimed to investigate effect of idiopathic childhood epilepsy per se on (1) visual evoked potential and (2) optical coherence tomography and effect of selected two antiepileptic medications on them. All subjects were exposed to visual evoked potential and only cooperative subjects exposed to ocular coherence tomography before and after anti-epileptic drugs and were followed up over 2 years.

Results
The study included 50 newly diagnosed epileptic children and 50 healthy controls, the mean P100 latency in the right eyes of the control group was 110.4 ± 3.76ms, while in the patients group was 114.94 ± 12.81ms that showed significant difference between the two groups with p value (0.020). After 2 years of treatment by levetiracetam and valproate, the mean P100 latency of the right and left eyes in the valproate group was 112.34 ± 7.05 ms and 112.59 ± 5.2 ms, respectively, and it was 114.85 ± 10.39 ms and 116.14 ± 9.84 ms, respectively, in the valproate group, which showed insignificant difference between the two groups. The mean average of retinal nerve fiber layer thickness between patients and controls was significant in both right and left eyes with p value 0.002 and < 0.001, respectively. After 1 year of treatment by levetiracetam in the first group and valproate in the second group, there was no significant difference between the two groups neither regarding retinal nerve fiber layer thickness nor ganglion cell complex in both eyes.

Conclusions
There was prolonged latency in the epileptic children before starting anti-epileptic drugs more than the control group; also there was thinning of the retinal nerve fiber layer thickness and average part of the ganglion cell complex thickness more in the epileptic children than in the healthy controls.
Characteristics of knowledge and stigma of autism spectrum disorder among university students in Jordan: a nationwide cross-sectional study
Authors: AlSamhori Jehad Feras , Kakish Diala Ra’Ed Kamal , Ellayyan Layla , Mohammad Tala , Hijazeen Talin , Kheir Sewar , Bejad Ghala , Boland Ritaj , Alkhaldi Ban , Aburahmeh Malek , Abu-Suaileek Mamoun Hamed Ali , Banimustafa Radwan , Qaswal Abdallah Barjas 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impairments in social communication and repetitive behaviors. It often coexists with other mental health conditions like depression. Despite growing awareness, stigma and limited understanding persist, particularly in Jordan, influencing medical help-seeking behaviors. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge and stigma among medical and non-medical students towards ASD.

Methods
This descriptive cross-sectional study, conducted between June and July 2024, examined knowledge and stigma toward ASD among undergraduate students in Jordan. Using a convenience sample, data were collected via self-administered surveys on social media and at universities. The Autism Sigma and Knowledge Questionnaire (ASK-Q) assessed participants’ knowledge and stigma. Statistical analysis included Chi-square and multiple linear regression.

Results
The questionnaire was completed by 1200 students, with a mean age of 21.11 ± 1.73 years, and 725 (60.4%) female respondents. Good economic status was reported by 945 (78.8%) participants, and 886 (73.8%) lived in urban areas. Medical students made up 811 (67.6%) of the sample, and 328 (27.3%) had prior knowledge of autism. The mean knowledge score was 44.50 ± 13.70, with significant associations found between knowledge subscales (diagnosis, etiology, treatment) and factors like gender, marital status, major, and prior knowledge. Urban residence, medical studies, and prior knowledge were positive predictors of higher knowledge scores. Stigma was reported by 18.3% of students, influenced by location, major, and prior autism knowledge.

Conclusion
This study reveals knowledge gaps about ASD among Jordanian students, where medical students were a positive factor for having stigma, underscoring empathy-based education’s importance.
Design and implementation of a low-cost datalogger for solar irradiance and PV module temperature
Authors: Yungho Edickson Bobo , Nfah Eustace Mbaka , Tchahou Tchendjeu Achille Ecladore 
Published: December 2024

AbstractPhotovoltaic module temperature and solar irradiance are two essential parameters that greatly affect the performance of solar plants. The measured information concerning these parameters is needed to size as well as predict future energy production of the plant. These data are often available at hourly intervals or more from meteorological stations and are expensive to acquire depending on the number of data points needed or from websites linked to satellites. Consequently, a method that can provide data at smaller time intervals is required to capture changes in irradiance and temperature. This paper presents a simple and cost-effective datalogger that measures the irradiance, relative humidity, module, and environmental temperatures. It used a 50 W photovoltaic module as an irradiance sensor. LM35 and DHT22 sensors were used for PV module and ambient temperature measurements, respectively. An interrupt service routine function implemented with the Arduino Mega microcontroller ensured a repetitive switching sequence of parallel resistance networks and the storage of desired current and voltage coordinates every 4s from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. The irradiance computed was based on power at the maximum point with a load-switching network and in a short-circuit condition. The entire cost of the datalogger system was 153.12 euros, and major results show that the power at maximum power point method and ambient temperature give the best estimate of the photovoltaic module temperature. Consequently, the irradiance determined by the maximum power point method with ambient temperature can be used to evaluate the performance of photovoltaic modules using the single-diode model.
Comparative study of anti-staphylococcal efficacy: traditional homeopathic dilutions vs. nano-enhanced Rhus Tox formulations
Authors: Goswami Pritam , Goswami Anamitra , Sil Moumita , Chatterjee Ishita , Ray Mausumi , Goswami Arunava , Ghosh Sayak , Ghosh Shubhamoy , Das Satadal , Chakraborty Subhajit 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Background
Staphylococcus aureus is a leading cause of death, especially among the elderly. This bacterium produces several surface membrane proteins, with staphylococcal protein A (SpA) being particularly important. Despite its prevalence, there are no targeted treatments available for geriatric patients. In homeopathy, Rhus toxicodendron (RT) is frequently used in various dilutions-Mother Tincture (MT), 6CH, 30CH, and 200CH- for conditions like skin infections, soft tissue disorders, and joint ailments.

Methods
In this study, we evaluated the effects of Rhus toxicodendron (RT) at different concentrations on Staphylococcus aureus through bacterial plate cultures and compared the outcomes with Nano-RT. Notably, Nano-RT MT is not commercially available. This research is the first to showcase both the efficacy and biosafety of the innovative nano-ZnO RT MT homeopathic formulation.

Results
This study examined the inhibitory effects of Rhus toxicodendron in its Mother Tincture (MT) form and in 6CH, 30CH, and 200CH dilutions against Staphylococcus aureus. Nano-ZnO was synthesized from Rhus toxicodendron MT and combined to create Nano-MT. Both Rhus Tox MT and Nano-RT MT demonstrated significant inhibition of Staphylococcus aureus within 24 h of application.

Conclusions
Rhus Tox MT and Nano-RT MT present promising new options for treating Staphylococcus aureus infections in elderly patients. Furthermore, studies have demonstrated that Nano-RT MT is completely biologically safe in mice.
Intestinal permeability biomarkers in patients with schizophrenia: Additional support for the impact of lifestyle habits
Authors: González-Blanco Leticia , Dal Santo Francesco , García-Portilla Maria Paz , Alfonso Miqueu , Hernández Carla , Sánchez-Autet Mónica , Anmella Gerard , Amoretti Silvia , Safont Gemma , Martín-Hernández David , Malan-Müller Stefanie , Bernardo Miquel , Arranz Belén 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background
Emerging evidence suggests a potential association between “leaky gut syndrome” and low-grade systemic inflammation in individuals with psychiatric disorders, such as schizophrenia. Gut dysbiosis could increase intestinal permeability, allowing the passage of toxins and bacteria into the systemic circulation, subsequently triggering immune-reactive responses. This study delves into understanding the relationship between plasma markers of intestinal permeability and symptom severity in schizophrenia. Furthermore, the influence of lifestyle habits on these intestinal permeability markers was determined.

Methods
Biomarkers of intestinal permeability, namely lipopolysaccharide-binding protein (LBP), lipopolysaccharides (LPS), and intestinal fatty acid binding protein (I-FABP), were analyzed in 242 adult schizophrenia patients enrolled in an observational, cross-sectional, multicenter study from four centers in Spain (PI17/00246). Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, including psychoactive drug use, lifestyle habits, the Positive and Negative Syndrome Scale to evaluate schizophrenia symptom severity, and the Screen for Cognitive Impairment in Psychiatry to assess cognitive performance.

Results
Results revealed elevated levels of LBP and LPS in a significant proportion of patients with schizophrenia (62% and 25.6%, respectively). However, no statistically significant correlation was observed between these biomarkers and the overall clinical severity of psychotic symptoms or cognitive performance, once confounding variables were controlled for. Interestingly, adherence to a Mediterranean diet was negatively correlated with I-FABP levels (beta = −0.186, t = −2.325, p = 0.021), suggesting a potential positive influence on intestinal barrier function.

Conclusions
These findings underscore the importance of addressing dietary habits and promoting a healthy lifestyle in individuals with schizophrenia, with potential implications for both physical and psychopathological aspects of the disorder.
Systemic Therapy for Stage I-III Anal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: ASCO Guideline
Authors: Morris Van K. , Kennedy Erin B. , Amin Manik A. , Aranha Olivia , Benson Al B. , Dorth Jennifer A. , Horowitz David P. , Kennecke Hagen F. , Kim Stefano , Kreppel Lillian , Mettu Niharika B. , Rajdev Lakshmi , Riechelmann Rachel , Sio Terence T. , Eng Cathy 
Published: December 2024

ASCO Guidelines provide recommendations with comprehensive review and analyses of the relevant literature for each recommendation, following the guideline development process as outlined in the

ASCO Guidelines Methodology Manual

. ASCO Guidelines follow the

ASCO Conflict of Interest Policy for Clinical Practice Guidelines

.

Clinical Practice Guidelines and other guidance (“Guidance”) provided by ASCO is not a comprehensive or definitive guide to treatment options. It is intended for voluntary use by clinicians and should be used in conjunction with independent professional judgement. Guidance may not be applicable to all patients, interventions, diseases or stages of diseases. Guidance is based on review and analysis of relevant literature and is not intended as a statement of the standard-of-care. ASCO does not endorse third-party drugs, devices, services, or therapies and assumes no responsibility for any harm arising from or related to the use of this information. See complete disclaimer in
Appendix 1
and
2
(online only).

PURPOSE
To provide evidence-based guidance for clinicians who treat patients with stage I-III anal cancer.

METHODS
A systematic review of the literature conducted by the Minnesota Evidence-based Practice Center provided the evidence base for this guideline. An ASCO Expert Panel reviewed this evidence and came to consensus on a set of evidence-based recommendations.

RESULTS
The systematic review contained three randomized controlled trials and three nonrandomized studies of interventions that were relevant to the guideline topic and informed the recommendations.

RECOMMENDATIONS
Mitomycin-C (MMC) with a fluoropyrimidine (fluorouracil [FU] or capecitabine) is recommended as the radiosensitizing component of chemoradiation (CRT) for anal cancer; the Expert Panel recognizes that capecitabine is often used as an orally administered alternative to FU and is currently being used in ongoing clinical trials. Cisplatin with FU is an additional chemotherapy combination that may be recommended as radiosensitizing chemotherapy. Because of the myelosuppression associated with MMC, the preferable regimen for patients with immunosuppression is cisplatin and FU. Cisplatin is not recommended for patients with renal dysfunction, significant neuropathy, or hearing loss, and there is no evidence to recommend substituting carboplatin for cisplatin. Dose and schedule options for recommended chemotherapy agents are included within the full text of the guideline. Routine induction chemotherapy before CRT and additional chemotherapy after CRT are not recommended for patients with localized anal cancer.

Additional information is available at
www.asco.org/gastrointestinal-cancer-guidelines
.
Nitrogen incorporation in compressively strained
multiple quantum well lasers
Authors: Hadjaj F. , Belhadj M. , Helmaoui A. 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Our work focuses on reducing the band gap energy of the Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
alloy with a GaAs barrier through the incorporation of nitrogen, making it possible to achieve a long-wavelength emission of 1.3

. Using this model, we will study the influence of the incorporation of nitrogen on the properties of the Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
/GaAs multiple quantum well laser which are strain, optical gain and spontaneous emission. The band anticrossing model is used to quantitatively describe the extent to which the fundamental band gap energy and effective electronic mass are affected by the incorporation of nitrogen into quaternary Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
. Our results show that the incorporation of a small amount of nitrogen (less than 5%) into Ga
x
In1-x
As to form Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
alloys leads to a splitting of the conduction band into two non-parabolic subbands and a significant increase in electron effective mass. This splitting can be described in terms of an anticrossing interaction between a narrow band of localized nitrogen states and the extended conduction band states of Ga
x
In1-x
As. The modification of the conduction band structure profoundly affects the properties of the Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
alloys and subsequently the Ga
x
In1-x
N
y
As1-y
/GaAs laser structure.