bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Changing rod stiffness to moderate stress of adjacent disc in oblique lumbar interbody fusion - A finite element analysis
Authors: Chou Po-Hsin , Chen Jin-Jer , Chen Chen-Sheng , Shih Shih-Liang , Wang Shih-Tien , Liu Chien-Lin 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Background OLIF (oblique lumbar interbody fusion) is a minimally invasive surgery to treat spinal instability. However, clinical studies indicated the early degeneration of adjacent segments after surgery. The rod stiffness of OLIF was associated with change at adjacent segments. Therefore, the study aimed to compare the biomechanical effects of OLIF with different rod material properties using the finite element (FE) method.Methods A validated L1-L5 lumbar spine was conducted in the biomechanical analysis using FE software ANSYS. The FE model of OLIF with a rod was created. Current biocompatible materials for the rod of the OLIF model were changed, including titanium alloy (OLIF_Ti), nickel-titanium alloy (OLIF_NiTi), and polycarbonate urethane (OLIF_PCU) rod. Four FE models, consisting of the intact model (INT) and implant models, were created. Hybrid control loads, such as flexion, extension, rotation, and lateral bending, were subjected to four models on the L1 vertebral body. The bottom of the L5 vertebral body was fixed.Results At the surgical level, while compared to the INT model, the OLIF_Ti and OLIF_NiTi model resulted in a ROM reduction of over 40% at least, but the OLIF_PCU changed about 10% in flexion and extension. At adjacent level L2-L3, the FE results indicated that the OLIF_Ti and OLIF_NiTi model increased more stress by about 12% at least than the INT model at the adjacent segment, but it demonstrated that the OLIF_PCU would not result in stress rise at the adjacent level L2-L3 in flexion and extension.Conclusion The study concluded that rod stiffness was associated with change at the adjacent segments. The use of OLIF surgery with PCU rods can minimize the impact of the adjacent segment after lumbar fusion.
Prognostic Significance of Cytotoxic-T-Lymphocytes to Immunosuppressive Lymphocytes Ratio (CIL) in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Authors: Zhang Duo , Heng Yu , Jin Qiu-yan , Tang Di , Zhu Xiao-ke , Lu Li-ming , Wu Chun-ping , Tao Lei 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Immunoscore (IS), based on CD3/CD8, has been proposed to characterize the immune landscape of the tumor immune microenvironment and has demonstrated an association with the prognosis of LSCC (Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma). However, traditional IS does not include immunosuppressive cells. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the prognostic performance of cytotoxic-T-lymphocytes to immunosuppressive cells ratio (CIL) in Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma (LSCC) patients. Two cohorts were included in this study: the training cohort (N=75) consisted of tumor tissue microarrays from LSCC patients in our department, and the Validation cohort (N=116) utilized bulk RNA-seq data from the TCGA database. Patients with high IS or CIL showed significantly prolonged overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS) in both cohorts. Upon analyzing the relative contribution of each parameter, it was found that CIL exhibited the highest significance among the factors examined. It emerged as the strongest predictor of overall survival, emphasizing its crucial influence in determining the outcomes. The prognostic ability of IS-TCGA was similar to the original IS. Additionally, high CILM2-TCGA was associated with prolonged survival of patients with LSCC in the TCGA dataset. CIL, which is easier to construct than IS, proves to be reliable in predicting survival outcomes for patients with LSCC.
Validation of Serum Galactomannan for Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis Outcome Prediction
Authors: Wu Trent Chang-Wei , Lin Chen Chieh , Chen Yung-Hsuan , Keng Li-Ta , Chang Lih-Yu , Chen Jung-Yueh , Lee Meng-Rui , Wang Jann-Yuan , Ho Chao-Chi , Shih Jin-Yuan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objectives
The galactomannan enzyme immunoassay optical density index (GMI) is widely used in the diagnosis of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA). However, its clinical utility as a prognostic factor has not yet been fully validated.
Methods
Patients with proven and probable invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) who had a serum GMI (sGMI) result between 2013 and 2020 at a tertiary referral center in Taiwan (NTUH-IPA cohort) were identified. A systematic review was conducted to identify studies investigating different sGMI static or kinetic markers for IPA prognosis, and then validated these markers using the NTUH-IPA cohort in a retrospective cohort study design. A multivariable logistic regression model was used to assess the prognostic ability of various sGMI markers for 30-day mortality, 90-day mortality, and in-hospital mortality,
Results
Our study included 268 IPA patients (14 with proven IPA and 254 with probable IPA) with a 30-day, 90-day, and in-hospital mortality rates of 38.1%, 60.1%, and 61.6% respectively. Our systematic review extracted 28 studies with 12 different sGMI markers were included for validation. In our multivariable logistic regression, a baseline sGMI ≥2 at IPA diagnosis was independently associated with 30-day mortality (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 2.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.16─3.66, p=0.013), 90-day mortality (aOR 2.33, 95% CI 1.29─4.21, p=0.005), and in-hospital mortality (aOR of 2.99, 95% CI 1.62─5.51, p<0.001). A day 7 sGMI ≥1.5 was also independently associated with 30-day mortality (aOR 2.34, 95% CI 1.09─5.02, p=0.029), 90-day mortality (aOR 2.24, 95% CI 1.10─4.58, p=0.027), and in-hospital mortality (aOR 2.30, 95% CI 1.12─4.71, p=0.023). No kinetic sGMI marker reached statistical significance for predicting all three outcomes.
Conclusions
A baseline sGMI ≥2 and day 7 sGMI ≥1.5 at diagnosis can be useful predictive markers for mortality in IPA patients, whereas kinetic markers cannot.
Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio and Systemic Inflammation Response Index as Biomarkers for the Clinical Outcomes of Intracerebral Hemorrhagic Stroke Patients: A Longitudinal Design Study
Authors: HU Ziyi , ZHU Wei , WANG Lingying , ZHOU Chunfen , FAN Chaofeng , Jiang Yan 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study examines the associations between the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), systemic inflammation response index (SIRI) and clinical outcomes of intracerebral hemorrhagic (ICH) stroke patients. We recruited and investigated longitudinally 294 ICH stroke patients in a general tertiary hospital in Sichuan Province, China at baseline (admission), 1-month post-discharge, 3-month post-discharge and 6-month post-discharge from January 2020 to January 2022. We calculated the NLR and SIRI from blood samples collected at baseline. The Mann-Whitney test, logistic regression analysis and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis were performed to evaluate differences in the NLR and SIRI between hemorrhagic stroke patients at three follow-up time points. The interaction between these variables was evaluated via multiplicative and additive interaction models. Our study revealed that the cut-off values of the NLR and SIRI to predict the clinical outcomes were determined to be 6 and 4, respectively. NLR > 6 (OR 2.202, 95% CI: 1.094–4.430) and SIRI > 4 (OR 2.056, 95% CI: 1.065–3.968) were associated with increased risks for poor clinical outcomes at 1-month post-discharge. SIRI > 4 (OR 2.428, 95% CI: 1.389–4.243) were associated with increased risks for poor clinical outcomes at 3-month post-discharge. NLR > 6 (OR 1.978, 95% CI: 1.093–3.580) were associated with increased risks for poor clinical outcomes at 6-month post-discharge. The NLR and SIRI did not have an additive effect on the clinical outcome at 1-month post-discharge. Our findings indicate that high NLRs and SIRIs, particularly NLR > 6 and SIRI > 4, are associated with poor clinical outcomes in ICH stroke patients.
Cloning and expression of chromate reductase from Bacillus paramycoides S48 for chromium remediation
Authors: Kalsoom Kalsoom , Din Salah Ud , Ceylan Esma , Hasan Fariha , Khan Samiullah , Badshah Malik , Çanakçi Sabriye , Belduz Ali Osman , Shah Aamer Ali 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

This study explores the production and characterization of chromium reductase from Bacillus paramycoides S48, focusing on its ability to effectively reduce toxic hexavalent chromium to less harmful chromium. The strain exhibited 65% reduction in Cr(VI) within 96 h at 30˚C. Clear morphological and functional group shifts on strain S48 cell surface treated with metal were noted using analytical tools i.e. SEM-EDX and FT-IR. The purified enzyme, obtained through size exclusion column chromatography, demonstrated a specific activity of 1416.5 U/mg, and 6.6-fold increase in purity, with a molecular mass of approximately 35 kDa. The enzyme exhibited stability at temperature 30–40 ˚C and pH 5.0–8.0. Furthermore, the purified chromium reductase achieved, 80% reduction of toxic Cr(VI) after 96 h. The BparChR gene was successfully cloned into the pET-28a vector, expressed in E. coli BL21, and purified through Ni-Affinity ion exchange chromatography. The recombinant BparChR protein displayed a specific activity of 1680 U/mg, and a purification fold of 5.73 times. The BparChR exhibited a remarkable 90% reduction in chromium after 96 h, surpassing the efficacy of whole-cell and native chromium reductase. This study concludes that B. paramycoides S48, holds promise for the cost-effective and environmentally friendly detoxification of chromium in contaminated industrial effluents.
Comparison between a Luminex-based multiplex kit with a sequence-specific oligonucleotide probe and next-generation sequencing for the detection of POLE oncogenic mutations in endometrial cancer
Authors: Kato Mayumi Kobayashi , Kawai Takayuki , Okada Hideki , Kondo Takuya , Shiraishi Tetsuro , Yamaguchi Maiko , Higuchi Daiki , Komatsu Masaaki , Hamamoto Ryuji , Matumoto Koji , Terao Yasuhisa , Kato Tomoyasu , Kohno Takashi , Ishikawa Mitsuya , Shiraishi Kouya , Yoshida Hiroshi 
Published: December 2024

Abstract

Objective: In endometrial cancer, detection of oncogenic mutations in the polymerase epsilon (POLE) gene is crucial for accurate staging according to the 2023 International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics classification and for minimizing overtreatment. However, POLEsequencing is expensive, time-consuming, and often inaccessible in settings without specialized equipment. We developed a novel multiplex kit for the detection of POLE mutations using a Luminex (xMAP) assay in a single reaction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of the multiplex kit for routine clinical samples and compare it with that of conventional next-generation sequencing (NGS).
Methods: Hysterectomy specimens and endometrial biopsies were collected at the National Cancer Center Hospital between 1999 and 2023. Genomic DNA was extracted from formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues. Both the Luminex (xMAP)-based multiplex kit and NGS targeting all POLE exons were used. Concordance was assessed using Cohen’s kappa.
Results: Of the 502 samples, 432 were hysterectomy specimens and 70 were biopsies. In the surgical samples, both the Luminex (xMAP)-based kit and NGS detected 52 POLE mutations (12.0%) with perfect concordance (κ=1.000). In the biopsies, 33 POLEmutations were identified using both methods, with complete concordance. Notably, the Luminex (xMAP)-based kit successfully analyzed all 28 samples that failed NGS quality control and detected four cases with POLE mutations.
Conclusions: The Luminex (xMAP)-based kit demonstrates high concordance with NGS for the detection of POLE mutations. With further external validation, this kit could become a reliable and accessible alternative to NGS.
Can Rights be Enough?
Authors: Ploof Rebecca 
Published: December 2024

The climate crisis is beset by depoliticization. Couched as an issue that experts must solve through technological or technocratic knowledge, discussion about how to address environmental degradation is not amenable to democratic action or dissensus. This paper argues that approaching climate change through a human rights framework risks reinscribing such depoliticization and that this is politically hazardous. Human rights discourse can impede the demos’ exercise of power, obscure exercises of hegemony, and, via a fixed notion of progress, discourage normative contestation. This discourse’s depoliticizing potential is further attested to by the debate over human rights’ relationship to the depoliticizing ideology of neoliberalism. Moreover, beyond the language of human rights, the larger legal phenomena of judicialization and juridification may further contribute to depoliticization. Depoliticization is risky because it can provoke politicizing backlashes likely to issue, in the case of climate change, in antidemocratically nationalistic and authoritarian responses to the environmental emergency.
Memory of wheat to repeated Heat Stress during pre-anthesis could be responsible for improved tolerance
Authors: Bacu Ariola , Ciko Krisida , Ibro Vjollca 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
Risk imposed by high temperatures (HT) to the quality and yield of cereals, requires evaluation of naturally resistant resources, and finding of methods to improve it. In this research, were analyzed the tolerance to HT of 19 winter wheat cultivars (Triticum aestivum L.) in use in Albania, and the possible memory gained to the repeated stress, before anthesis. Biometric (root, shoot, leafs length), physiological (fine root cells death, Relative Water Content-RWC), and biochemical parameters (chla, chlb, carotenoids and xantophylls, and total carbohydrates) were measured, and the impact of a short shock (SS) at 42°C/2hrs versus a longer treatment (LT) at 38-35°C/24hrs on pigment synthesis, and on the expression of rubisco activase (Rca1) coding gene were investigated. A classification system was built to describe the tolerance to HT, and cultivars were grouped via UPGMA, and PCoA. Results show that SS impacted pigment synthesis more than LT, while expression of Rca1 was cultivar-specific; In a group of 19 cultivars under two treatments (T1, T2) at 30°C, the vulnerable: moderately tolerant: tolerant were 4: 11: 5, and 3:9:7, respectively. Values were cultivar-specific for single parameters, yet a general trend was evident for some. Improved tolerance to repeated stress was described as gained stress memory.
Technological revolution and the reconfiguration of Human Life – A philosophical approach
Authors: Likaj Albano 
Published: December 2024

Abstract
The fate of man used to depend on the “mercy” of nature. He left everything that happened in nature to chance. Nature wants it to happen that way. The only salvation for him would be if he adapted to nature’s plan. With the development of technology, people think differently about humans. He will no longer be seen as “the two-legged animal that cannot separate itself from nature.” Like the animal whose destiny is written in nature. Technology is the fact that man can surpass himself. He not only appears differently under the optics of technology, but also challenges nature by giving it a different look. As technology evolves, it conquers nature, overcomes the fate dependent on nature and changes it. It changes its destiny, even itself. With technology, he reconfigures his existence. What does that mean? We see it in many different areas of life where technology is reconfiguring humans as “God” who has the power to change. For example; at work, in education, in healthcare and in communication, new technological tools have made it easier to achieve goals. Technological development makes us see the world differently, connects us to the world differently and changes it. It is a lighthouse that, alongside the world, alongside nature, also illuminates the meaning of our being and our existence.
Leveraging Cultural Knowledge of Atractosteus tropicus to Empower Rural Communities and Develop Sustainable Microenterprises in Southeastern Mexico
Authors: Oropeza-Tosca Diana Rubí , Notario-Priego Roger , Rincón-Molina Clara Ivette , González-Izquierdo Karina , Gómez Luis Alberto Manzano 
Published: December 2024

Objective: This research aimed to empower rural communities in Southeastern Mexico by using cultural knowledge of Atractosteus tropicus to support the creation of microenterprises based on its sustainable use, promoting socio-economic development.

Theoretical Framework: The study draws on participatory action research (PAR) and sustainable development principles, aligning community-based resource management with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

Method: A participatory action research approach was applied, integrating needs assessment and community involvement at all stages. Training programs were tailored to local needs, focusing on tropical gar biology, ecology, and traditional gastronomy, alongside tools for marketing, entrepreneurship, and microenterprise management.

Results and Discussion: The project fostered innovative food products with sustainable packaging and promoted women’s active leadership in microenterprise initiatives. Sustainable fishing practices were strengthened, directly contributing to SDGs such as poverty reduction, zero hunger, decent work, reduced inequalities, responsible consumption, life below water, and partnerships. Community feedback reflected a positive response to training and new economic opportunities.

Research Implications: This research underscores the value of culturally relevant, community-centered approaches in sustainable development, demonstrating potential for broader applications in rural regions with unique resources.

Originality/Value: This study highlights an integrative model where traditional ecological knowledge and local resources meet entrepreneurship and sustainability, setting a replicable framework for community empowerment and biodiversity conservation.
Use of RPAS (DRONES) for Masonry Arch Bridges Inspection: Quality and Sustainable Work with Preventive Guarantee
Authors: Elizalde Rubén Rodríguez 
Published: December 2024

Objective: The objective of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of drones as a tool for the inspection of masonry arch bridges, to determine whether drones can replace traditional inspection methods.

Theoretical Framework: Based on the criteria established by public infrastructure management authorities for the inspection of bridges, the article explains how drones have revolutionised various sectors, such as civil engineering, allowing for detailed and safe visual inspections in hard-to-reach places. In this regard, previous studies are reviewed that have demonstrated the effectiveness of drones for various reconnaissance operations.

Method: The methodology adopted for this investigation included a visual inspection using a drone on two medieval bridges that currently only support pedestrian traffic: a single-arch bridge, the Puente del Grajal, and a multi-arch bridge, the Puente Brandomil.

Results and Discussion: The results confirmed that the drone can diagnose various injuries on bridges, as proof of the effectiveness of this microtool to carry out a complete visual inspection of an old construction, and of all its visible elements, whether they are accessible or not.

Research Implications: Research shows that drones can be a model tool for the conservation of architectural heritage, allowing fast and safe visual diagnoses, with lower costs and risks. The use of drones can transform current practices for structural assessment of any infrastructure, including any type of monument.

Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature in the field of heritage conservation by demonstrating that drones can replace traditional inspection methods, reducing costs, time and risks for workers, while preserving the integrity of the inspected structure. The research is quite innovative in combining drone inspection techniques in a cultural heritage context, opening up new opportunities in the conservation of ancient structures.
The Use of Artificial Intelligence in Patient Triage in Emergency Departments: an Integrative Review
Authors: Magalhães Maria Eugennia Andrade , Silva Carine Vitória Lemes da , Oliveira Heluza Monteiro de , Lima Ana Beatriz Rodrigues de , Flores Maria Teresa Salum , Leite Isabella Ferreira , Silva Guilherme Aresi da , Faria Ivan Aurélio Fortuna Kalil de , Cruz Adriano Nogueira da , Costa José Helinaldo das Chagas , Zanoni Rodrigo Daniel 
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study aims to explore how AI has been applied in patient triage in emergency services, investigating its contributions to the efficiency of care, the challenges faced in implementation, and the opportunities for response time optimization and resource allocation.

Method: An integrative literature review was carried out with studies published between 2020 and 2024. The research was guided by the PICo (Population, Interest and Context) model, focusing on patients treated in emergency services (P), the application of AI for triage (I) and the hospital and emergency context (Co). The search was carried out in databases such as PubMed, LILACS, SciELO and Scopus, applying the Boolean code "Artificial Intelligence" AND "Triage" AND "Emergency Services". After screening 214 initial articles, 12 studies were selected for final analysis, based on the PRISMA guidelines.

Results and Discussion: The review pointed out that AI significantly improves response time and reduces the margin of error in patient classification, especially in high-demand situations. The use of AI stood out in identifying critical outcomes, such as the need for immediate care. During the COVID-19 pandemic, AI has proven to be essential in the remote triage of high-risk patients, ensuring efficient use of resources in overcrowded settings. However, implementation faces challenges, such as resistance from health professionals and the need for integration with existing health systems.

Conclusion: In summary, the use of AI in emergency services has brought significant benefits, such as increased triage efficiency, improved diagnostic accuracy, and improved resource management. However, overcoming cultural and operational barriers and setting clear ethical guidelines are essential. The careful integration of AI, with continuous training and periodic assessments, is critical to transforming care and ensuring more effective and safer patient care.