bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Mapping cancer in Egypt: a model to predict future cancer situation using estimates from GLOBOCAN 2020
Authors: El-Kassas Mohamed , Ezzat Reem , Shousha Hend , Bosson-Amedenu Senyefia , Ouerfelli Noureddine 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Background
Egypt has one of the largest populations in the Middle East and North Africa. With the help of mathematical models that project the situation over the next several years, this research seeks to understand the current epidemiologic condition of malignancies in Egypt. This may highlight the predicted burden of different cancers and guide policy makers in finding solutions to reduce such a burden.

Methods
We used the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN)-2020 database of Egypt for our statistical analysis. Power law was used to find the causal relationship between the number of new cases and deaths. In order to determine the severity of the disease, cancer rank was examined and used to shed light on potential cancer-related characteristics. Equations comparing the state of various cancers were used to correlate the number of new cases and fatalities.

Results
When compared to the average global statistics, Egypt had alarmingly high death rates from breast and liver cancer. Additionally, the increase in newly reported cases was linked to an increase in mortality that happened more quickly than the global average rates.
Liver cancer was first in newly reported cases and deaths, followed by breast and bladder cancers. Liver and pancreatic malignancies have the highest ranks as the most fatal cancers in Egypt.

Conclusion
In Egypt, despite the efforts exerted by health authorities aiming at the early detection of different cancers, the country still occupies a high rank in cancer deaths compared to other countries, which is expected to continue for the coming few years.
Development of Mucoadhesive Vaginal Films for Metronidazole Delivery Using Methacryloylated, Crotonoylated, and Itaconoylated Gelatin Blends with Poly(vinyl alcohol)
Authors: Shatabayeva Elvira O. , Kaldybekov Daulet B. , Kenessova Zarina A. , Tuleyeva Rysgul N. , Kudaibergenov Sarkyt E. , Khutoryanskiy Vitaliy V. 
Published: February 2025

Abstract

Purpose
This work reports the development and characterisation of polymeric films composed of gelatin or its chemically modified derivatives (crotonoylated, itaconoylated, and methacryloylated gelatins) blended with polyvinyl alcohol (PVA). Metronidazole served as an antimicrobial drug in these formulations.

Methods
The films were produced by casting aqueous solutions of polymers, followed by solvent evaporation. Their structure and physicochemical characteristics were studied using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and mechanical testing. The thickness of the films, their folding endurance, the surface pH, and transparency were also evaluated. The mucoadhesive performance of the films was evaluated through an ex vivo detachment technique involving freshly excised sheep vaginal tissues. In vitro cumulative drug release studies were conducted using Franz diffusion cells.

Results
The results demonstrate that incorporating unsaturated functional groups into gelatin improves its mucoadhesive properties compared to native gelatin. The drug release experiments conducted in vitro showed that the cumulative release from pure gelatin/PVA films was found to be 49 ± 2%, whereas modified gelatins/PVA (70:30) films released ~ 64–71%.

Conclusion
These findings suggest that modified gelatins could serve as effective excipients in designing mucoadhesive formulations for vaginal administration, with potential applications extending to other transmucosal drug delivery systems.

Graphical Abstract
Sox8: a multifaceted transcription factor in development and disease
Authors: González Alvarado María Nazareth , Aprato Jessica 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT
Sox8 is a transcription factor that belongs to the Sox family of high-mobility-group domain containing proteins and is closely related to Sox9 and Sox10. During prenatal development, Sox8 is expressed in several ectoderm-, endoderm- and mesoderm-derived tissues and has been implicated in processes of organogenesis and differentiation. Sox8 expression is found in several important cells such as Sertoli cells in the male gonad, glial cells, satellite cells, and chondrocytes. However, Sox8 is not essential for the proper development of any of the involved systems, as it functions redundantly with Sox9 or Sox10 and no major developmental disturbances have been noticed in its absence. Despite its perceived limited importance as a developmental regulator, Sox8 exhibits a more significant role in late development and adult tissues. Several studies highlight the importance of Sox8 for the homeostasis of adipose tissue, Sertoli cells and the blood-testis-barrier functioning, and the maintenance of myelin in the central nervous system. Emerging evidence points to SOX8 as a promising candidate for a disease-causing gene in humans and suggests that changes in SOX8 function or expression could contribute to pathological states. For instance, genetic variants of SOX8 have been linked to multiple sclerosis and familial essential tremor, while SOX8 alterations have been related to poor cancer prognosis and infertility. This Review provides an overview of Sox8's versatile role in development and adult tissues as well as its lesser-known contributions to various diseases, and its potential as a therapeutic target.
Diversity of microtubule arrays in animal cells at a glance
Authors: van Grinsven Emma J. , Akhmanova Anna 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT
Microtubules are cytoskeletal filaments important for various cellular processes such as intracellular transport, cell division, polarization and migration. Microtubule organization goes hand in hand with cellular function. Motile cells, such as immune cells or fibroblasts, contain microtubule asters attached to the centrosome and the Golgi complex, whereas in many other differentiated cells, microtubules form linear arrays or meshworks anchored at membrane-bound organelles or the cell cortex. Over the past decade, new developments in cell culture, genome editing and microscopy have greatly advanced our understanding of complex microtubule arrays. In this Cell Science at a Glance article and the accompanying poster, we review the diversity of microtubule arrays in interphase animal cells. We describe microtubule network geometries present in various differentiated cells, explore the variety in microtubule-organizing centers responsible for these geometries, and discuss examples of microtubule reorganization in response to functional changes and their interplay with cell motility and tissue development.
A Preliminary Investigation of an Automated Online Program for Increasing Physical Activity among Adults: A Randomized Trial
Authors: Unick Jessica L. , Oselinsky Katrina , Cao Zihuan , Webster Jennifer , Allen Amaya , Pellegrini Christine , Tobin Selene Y. , Wing Rena R. 
Published: February 2025

ABSTRACT

Introduction
Given the numerous health benefits associated with regular physical activity (PA), effective, affordable, and scalable PA interventions are needed to address the high prevalence of inactivity among adults within the United States. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of an Internet-delivered program for increasing moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA) among inactive adults.

Methods
Participants (n = 55; age: 53.5 ± 10.2 yr, body mass index: 32.0 ± 6.1 kg·m−2, 56.4% female, 83.6% non-Hispanic White) were randomized to the Energize! exercise program, a 12-wk, fully automated program for increasing MVPA, or a newsletter control condition. Each week, Energize! participants completed behaviorally based video lessons, submitted an exercise plan, reported their exercise minutes, and completed a homework assignment. The PA goal progressed from 75 to 200 min·wk−1 and automated, personalized feedback was provided. Control participants received PA education newsletters twice per month (six in total). Assessments of psychosocial PA constructs and MVPA (self-report, accelerometer-derived total MVPA, and accelerometer-derived bouted MVPA (>10 min bouts)) occurred at baseline, 3 months (post-intervention), and 6 months (following a 3-month no-contact follow-up).

Results
Retention was 85.5% and 81.8% at 3 and 6 months, respectively. On average, Energize! participants submitted an exercise plan in 76.4% of weeks, watched 84.5% of video lessons, and completed 75.0% of homework assignments. Program satisfaction was higher in Energize! than the control group (all P < 0.001). A significant interaction effect favoring Energize! was observed from baseline to 3 months for bouted MVPA (P = 0.01) and total MVPA (P = 0.01). No significant differences between groups were observed for changes from baseline to 6 months. At both 3 and 6 months, medium to large effect sizes were observed for most psychosocial PA variables (Cohen’s d = 0.57–1.08).

Conclusion
This fully automated program was feasible, acceptable, and effective at increasing MVPA in the short-term, but effects were diminished once the intervention was removed.
The Efficacy of Dog Assisted Therapy in depression and anxiety – a review
Authors: Marciniuk Dominika , Głogowska Paulina , Grela Wiktor , Niewiadomska Jagoda , Gniaź Natalia , Tulej Dawid , Marko Natalia , Dziedzic Alicja , Furtak Daria , Górska Aleksandra 
Published: February 2025

Introduction:
Animal-assisted-therapy (AAT) is a form of psychotherapy where animals are used as a part of a therapeutic process. Most commonly chosen are dogs and horses, however, some research shows a positive impact in therapy with farm animals, cats, birds, rodents, and dolphins. AAT provides a comfortable environment which empowers patients to recall traumatic memories and facilitates communication with their therapist. Furthermore, contact with therapeutic animals lowers blood pressure, heart rate and cortisol level. There have also been noted significant increases in beta-endorphin, oxytocyn, β-phenylethylamine and dopamine levels.
Purpose: The purpose of this article was to present the current state of knowledge regarding the influence of dog-assisted therapy in individuals of all ages experiencing depression or anxiety.
Material and methods: A review of the available literature was conducted by searching the PubMed, and Google Scholar databases using the keywords: adults, elderly, children, DAT, dog-assisted therapy, depression, anxiety. Included articles were published after the year 2000.
Results: The studies reviewed consistently demonstrate the potential benefits of dog-assisted therapy (DAT) for alleviating anxiety, depression, and enhancing overall well-being in various populations. In dental and hospital settings, DAT significantly reduced anxiety and physiological distress with notable improvements in heart rate and depression scores.
Conclusion: Dog-assisted therapy (DAT) effectively reduces anxiety and depression, demonstrating its potential as an engaging intervention for diverse populations. These findings support its broader integration into mental health programs.
The Effects of short term L-citrulline supplementation in the immediate preparation period on the blood morphotic indicators in the population of amateur runners
Authors: Słojkowska Agnieszka , Kruber Karolina , Stankiewicz Błażej 
Published: February 2025

Background and Study Aim: The main aim of the study was to asses the effects of short term L-citrulline supplementation in the immediate preparation period on the blood morphotic indicators in the population of amateur runners.
Material and Methods: Population of 24 physically active semi-professional runners preperign for the long distance runn were assigned to two groups to determine the effect of 14-days of 6000 mg per day cytruline supplementation in the immediate preparation period on the blood morphotic indicators in the population of amateur runners. The study was completed by 12 subjects receiving 6 000 mg per cytruline daily (in six 1g gelatin capsules), and 10 subjects receiving placebo gelatin capluses fulfilled with potato flour. The morphological blood parameters were messured from the venous blood collected into 5-ml tubes containing EDTAK2 as the anticoagulant before and after two weeks of supplementation.
Results: There were no significant differences found between the groups with respect to changes in the levels of the studied parameters, except for creatine kinase.
The influence of Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis dysregulation on postpartum mental disorders - literature review and new perspectives
Authors: Kościuszko Zuzanna , Sobiński Adam , Czerwonka Matylda , Kurza Katarzyna , Agnieszka Kulczycka-Rowicka  , Podolec Julianna , Ciraolo Silvia , Walczak Anna , Lesiczka-Fedoryj Katarzyna , Wojda Joanna 
Published: February 2025

Introduction and Purpose of work: Postpartum depression is a psychiatric disorder associated with the changes in the endocrine system as well as in neuroimmune signaling. The purpose of this review is to investigate the meaning of neurosteroids that are link between postpartum depression and changes in Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, as well as to highlight the therapeutic implications.

Review methods: This article is based on literature from PubMed, Google Scholar, and other databases. Observational studies, experimental studies, and meta-analyses on the HPA-axis and postpartum depression, including brain changes and neurosteroids as treatment options, were selected.

Abbreviated description of the state of knowledge:
Postpartum depression involves changes in the neuroendocrine and neuroimmune systems, often linked to HPA axis dysregulation affecting the CNS. Irregular GABAergic signaling is a key factor, influencing conditions like depression, anxiety, and PTSD. Neurosteroids have been used for treatment, and new options for postpartum depression are being explored. Hormonal shifts may also affect hippocampal and gray matter function.

Summary: This review explores the connection between postpartum depression and hormonal changes in the HPA axis, highlighting its clinical importance. It calls for deeper insight into the condition’s pathophysiology, including hippocampal changes affecting memory and mood. Neurosteroid therapies show promise, but further research is needed on their role in HPA axis-related memory changes during postpartum. A comprehensive approach considering factors like sex, age, microbiome, stress, and diet is crucial.
Square-Root Regret Bounds for Continuous-Time Episodic Markov Decision Processes
Authors: Gao Xuefeng , Zhou Xunyu 
Published: February 2025

We study reinforcement learning for continuous-time Markov decision processes (MDPs) in the finite-horizon episodic setting. In contrast to discrete-time MDPs, the intertransition times of a continuous-time MDP are exponentially distributed with rate parameters depending on the state–action pair at each transition. We present a learning algorithm based on the methods of value iteration and upper confidence bound. We derive an upper bound on the worst case expected regret for the proposed algorithm and establish a worst case lower bound with both bounds of the order of square root on the number of episodes. Finally, we conduct simulation experiments to illustrate the performance of our algorithm. Funding: X. Gao is supported by the Hong Kong Research Grant Council [Grants 14201421, 14212522, 14200123]. X. Zhou gratefully acknowledges financial support through the Nie Center for Intelligent Asset Management at Columbia.
Bold strides towards the elimination of gambiense human African trypanosomiasis (gHAT) as a public health problem—A case study of Angola
Authors: Ouma Johnson O. , Kayembe Simon , Bessell Paul R. , Makana Don Paul , Dala Amadeu D. C. P. , Peliganga Luis Baião , Ndung’u Joseph M. , Machado Constantina P. F. 
Published: February 2025

Background
The chronic form of human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) caused by Trypanosoma brucei gambiense and commonly referred to as gambiense-HAT (gHAT) is endemic in 7 of Angola’s 18 provinces. Major epidemics of the disease occurred in the country in the 1920s to 1940s and 1990s –mid 2000s, and current estimates are that up to a third of the country’s population is at risk of infection. Whereas gHAT was first reported in Angola in 1871, control efforts did not begin until 30 years later in 1901. This case study describes the history of gHAT in Angola, outlines the policies and strategies used in its control, and the intensification efforts being made to accelerate progress towards elimination. Furthermore, it highlights factors that have contributed to recurrent outbreaks of gHAT in the country and key achievements in the push towards elimination.

Methods
Literature review was conducted using online databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, Google, WHO HAT data repository, and the African Union Inter African Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR), International Scientific Council for Trypanosomiasis Research and Control (ISCTRC) conference proceedings. Data/information not found in these databases was availed through personal communication with colleagues from Instituto de Combate e Controlo das Tripanossomiases (ICCT). The search of databases was conducted using the following terms: “human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) control/elimination in Angola,” “sleeping sickness/HAT control in Angola,” “HAT epidemics in Angola.”

Results and conclusion
Overall, the interventions put in place over the years have led to significant reduction in the number of new HAT cases reported annually, from an average of 3,496 (between 1990 and 2006) to an average of 56 cases between 2016 and 2023. This has renewed the hope of achieving elimination of gHAT as a public health problem by 2030.
Can psychedelic use benefit meditation practice? Examining individual, psychedelic, and meditation-related factors
Authors: Jiwani Zishan , Goldberg Simon B. , Stroud Jack , Young Jacob , Curtin John , Dunne John D. , Simonsson Otto , Webb Christian A. , Carhart-Harris Robin , Schlosser Marco 
Published: February 2025

Introduction
Meditation practice and psychedelic use have attracted increasing attention in the public sphere and scientific research. Both methods induce non-ordinary states of consciousness that may have significant therapeutic benefits. Thus, there is growing scientific interest in potential synergies between psychedelic use and meditation practice with some research suggesting that psychedelics may benefit meditation practice. The present study examined individual, psychedelic-related, and meditation-related factors to determine under what conditions meditators perceive psychedelic use as beneficial for their meditation practice.

Method
Participants (N = 863) who had reported psychedelic use and a regular meditation practice (at least 3 times per week during the last 12 months) were included in the study. To accommodate a large number of variables, machine learning (i.e., elastic net, random forest) was used to analyze the data.

Results
Most participants (n = 634, 73.5%) found psychedelic use to have a positive influence on their quality of meditation. Twenty-eight variables showed significant zero-order associations with perceived benefits even following a correction. Elastic net had the best performance (R2 = .266) and was used to identify the most important features. Across 53 variables, the model found that greater use of psychedelics, intention setting during psychedelic use, agreeableness, and exposure to N,N-Dimethyltryptamine (N,N-DMT) were most likely to be associated with the perception that psychedelics benefit meditation practice. The results were consistent across several different approaches used to identify the most important variables (i.e., Shapley values, feature ablation).

Discussion
Results suggest that most meditators found psychedelic use to have a positive influence on their meditation practice, with: 1) regularity of psychedelic use, 2) the setting of intentions for psychedelic use, 3) having an agreeable personality, and 4) reported use of N,N-DMT being the most likely predictors of perceiving psychedelic use as beneficial. Longitudinal designs and randomized trials manipulating psychedelic use are needed to establish causality.
CT imaging biomarkers to predict severity and prognosis of pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Yoon Do won , Yoon Yeonyee E. , Hwang In Chang , Lee Wonjae , Lee Ki-Yeal , Chun Eun Ju 
Published: February 2025

Purpose
To explore whether there are computed tomography (CT) imaging biomarkers that can stratify the severity of patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH).

Methods
We retrospectively enrolled 144 consecutive patients with suspected PH who underwent CT pulmonary angiography and right heart catheterization (RHC). CT findings were analyzed by two observers for large vessel size [ascending aorta (A), pulmonary artery (P), inferior vena cava (IVC)], each chamber size, and septal angle. We investigated the associations between CT imaging parameters and the mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP) from RHC. During a median follow-up of 36 months, we observed major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE; all-cause mortality and hospitalization for PH worsening). Univariate and multivariate Cox regression models were used with hazard ratios (HR) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) to determine independent predictors of MACE in patients with PH.

Results
Of 144 patients, 116 (80.2%) were diagnosed with PH based on an mPAP of 20 mmHg. Among CT parameters, P, P/A ratio, right ventricle (RV), and RV/left ventricle (LV) ratio were strongly correlated with mPAP values (Pearson’s correlation coefficient, all r < 0.001). During the follow-up period, 44 (30.6%) patients developed MACE (14 deaths and 30 hospitalizations). Using multivariate Cox regression analysis, the RV/LV ratio (HR 2.32; 95% CI: 1.17–4.59) was the best predictor of MACE, followed by age (HR 1.03, 95% CI;1.00–1.05) (all p < 0.05). Among various CT parameters, A, P, and P/A ratio showed excellent reliability with intraclass correlation coefficient ≥ 0.95.

Conclusion
Among CT parameters, the RV/LV ratio was the most robust predictor of MACE in patients with PH, while the P and P/A ratios served as reliable indicators reflecting mPAP levels.