bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of iodine and selenium level and thyroid functions in patients with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Unal Edip , Arıca Enes , Taş Funda Feryal , Kolbaşı Barış , Beyazıt Nurcan , Kaplan İbrahim , Savaş Suat , Şen Velat 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objectives
There is limited research on thyroid function in pediatric patients with cystic fibrosis (pwCF). This study aimed to determine the frequency of thyroid dysfunction in children and adolescents with CF and to evaluate iodine deficiency and selenium status in pwCF.

Methods
Sixty-two CF patients and 62 control subjects were evaluated. The anthropometric measurements, nutritional status, FEV1(Forced-expiratory-volume in 1 s) percentage, thyroid function tests (TSH, FT4, FT3), urinary iodine and selenium levels, hospitalization status in the last six months, antibiotic usage, and colonization status with staphylococcus or pseudomonas were assessed for the cases.

Results
The mean age of the patient group was 10.84 ± 4.04 years. All CF patients were receiving multivitamin supplementation. Malnutrition was present in 50 % of patients, bacterial colonization in 29 %, FEV1 decrease in 38.5 %, subclinical hypothyroidism (SH) in 12.9 %, iodine deficiency in 87 % and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in 100 %. T3 levels were found to be higher in pwCF. No significant difference was found between malnutrition and FEV1 and urinary iodine and selenium levels. Compared to the control group, pwCF had lower urinary iodine levels.

Conclusions
To the best of our knowledge, our study is one of the few in the literature to investigate urinary selenium levels alongside iodine in PwCF. Further research is needed to clarify and interpret elevated urinary selenium levels in this context. It was shown that iodine deficiency and the rate of SH were relatively high in pwCF. However, it was still thought that correcting iodine deficiency in these patients could improve thyroid dysfunction associated with CF.
The relationship between cholesterol levels and thyroid eye disease
Authors: Cardo Caroline , Bernardo Santos Roberto , Pinotti Pedro Miklos Ana Beatriz , Barbosa Jaconis Sabrina , Romaldini João Hamilton , Villagelin Danilo 
Published: January 2025

Background
Thyroid eye disease (TED) is the most prevalent extrathyroidal manifestation of Graves’ disease (GD). Emerging evidence suggests a relationship between elevated total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels and TED. This study aimed to investigate this correlation in the Brazilian population by analyzing data from two tertiary care centers.

Methods
Data were collected from GD patients treated with methimazole between 1999 and 2021, excluding those receiving other treatments. Laboratory results and information on smoking habits, statin use and medications affecting lipid profiles during the euthyroid state were analyzed.

Results
Smoking and elevated LDL cholesterol levels were significantly associated with TED activity and severity. Logistic regression revealed correlations between higher LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and increased clinical activity score (P < 0.01, OR: 1.012, 95% CI: 1.003–1.021; P < 0.01, OR: 1.010, 95% CI: 1.002–1.018). These were also associated with more severe disease forms as defined by EUGOGO (P < 0.01, OR: 1.015, 95% CI: 1.006–1.024; P < 0.005, OR: 1.011, 95% CI: 1.004–1.019). Multiple regression confirmed that TED activity was significantly correlated with LDL cholesterol (P < 0.01) and smoking status (P < 0.01). Disease severity was associated with reduced HDL cholesterol (P < 0.05, OR: 0.973, 95% CI: 0.948–0.999), elevated LDL cholesterol (P < 0.005, OR: 1.013, 95% CI: 1.004–1.023) and active smoking (P < 0.05, OR: 2.881, 95% CI: 1.190–6.971).

Conclusion
Elevated LDL cholesterol may serve as a potential indicator of TED. Further research is needed to determine whether lipid-lowering interventions could reduce TED risk or improve its management.
Lateral Melt Variations induce Shift in Io’s Peak Tidal Heating
Authors: Veenstra Allard , Navarro Marc Rovira , Wal Wouter van der , Steinke Teresa , Davies Ashley 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

The innermost Galilean moon, Io, exhibits widespread tidally-driven volcanism. Monitoring of its volcanoes has revealed that they are not homogeneously distributed across its surface: volcanic activity is higher at low latitudes and peaks east of the sub- and anti-Jovian points. The observed longitudinal shift in volcanic activity has been presented as evidence of Io having a fluid magma ocean, as dissipation in a radially symmetric solid body cannot explain it. Here, we simulate the feedback between tidal heating and melt production in a solid body and demonstrate that a longitudinal shift in the heating pattern naturally arises from the feedback. Our results provide an alternative explanation for the observed volcanic heat flux without requiring a fluid magma ocean. The feedback between tidal dissipation and interior properties that results in interiors that deviate from radial symmetry is expected to drive the interior evolution of other tidally-active worlds, including icy moons such as Europa and Enceladus and exo-planets/moons with high eccentricity or obliquity.
Double burden, poverty and sustainable development in Brazil between 2015-2023
Authors: Conde Wolney Lisboa , de Figueiredo Kathleen Reichow , de Assis João Luiz Pereira , Silva Isabela Venancio da , Aires Isabel Oliveira , Silva Tamiris Ramos , Wenzel Daniela 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background: Stunting is a marker of chronic malnutrition associated with adverse socioeconomic conditions and health inequities. In Brazil, despite general improvements in nutritional indicators, stunting prevalence has remained stagnant since 2006. Public policies aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) play a crucial role in addressing these disparities.
Objective: analyze the effects of SDGs policies on changes of the frequency and distribution of the double burden of nutrition disease among Brazilian children from 2015 to 2023, considering regional disparities and the impact of clusters of public policies aligned with the SDGs.
Methods: A cross-sectional study conducted using data from SISVAN and the Sustainable Cities Development Index (IDCS). Latent class analysis was used to group municipalities into clusters of public policies. Fixed and random-effects regression models were applied to evaluate the association between policy clusters and stunting prevalence. Projections of stunting prevalence were performed up to 2030 under different policy scenarios.
Results: Clusters of public policies showed an association with stunting prevalence, highlighting significant regional disparities. Municipalities with robust policies exhibited lower rates, while vulnerable areas faced greater challenges. Despite an increase in SISVAN coverage, significant inequalities persisted.
Conclusion: Strengthening integrated public policies and expanding the coverage of nutritional surveillance systems are essential to reducing regional disparities and achieving the SDGs. Evidence-based strategies should prioritize vulnerable populations to promote greater health equity in Brazil.
De novo genome assembly and comparative genome analysis of the novel human fungal pathogen Trichosporon austroamericanum type-strain CBS 17435
Authors: Francisco Elaine C. , Desnos-Ollivier Marie , Ende Bert Gerrits van den , Hagen Ferry 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Trichosporon austroamericanum is a recently described species recognized for its emerging clinical significance in invasive trichosporonosis. In this study, we present the nanopore long-read-based de novo genome assembly of the type-strain CBS 17435. Additionally, we performed genomic comparative analyses with its closest relative, Trichosporon inkin.
Lack of Provision of Social and Emotional Information about Down Syndrome Associated with Negative Prenatal Diagnosis Experiences
Authors: Meredith Stephanie , Kleinert Harold L. , Li Jian , Weiss Sierra , Drummond Jonathan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Objective
To determine how physician adherence to recommended practices for discussing Down syndrome impacts patient experiences, and which of these recommendations most correlate with positive prenatal patient experiences.
Method
Online surveys were distributed to mothers of children with DS born between 2016–2021. The descriptions of prenatal experiences were assigned sentiment analysis scores: positive, negative, or neutral. The scores were then compared against the adherence of clinicians to recommended practices for delivering prenatal screening results.
Results
Of the 167 patients in this study, over 50% described a negative experience. The odds of having a neutral/positive diagnosis experience were about 18 times greater for those patients whose physicians adhered to all seven social recommendations. The odds of having a positive/neutral screening experience were 11.4 times greater for those patients whose physicians adhered to both emotional recommendations (not saying “I’m sorry” or conveying the diagnosis as bad news”). Most of the variance in the patient diagnosis experience was attributed to adherence to emotional recommendations and social recommendations.
Conclusion
To meet the needs of patients, obstetricians need to address their emotional, social, and informational needs by providing 1) access to balanced and accurate information about disabilities and 2) being better trained on sensitive communications.
Note: “Diagnosis experiences” include both patients receiving diagnostic results and the cell-free DNA screening results. Most parents of children with Down syndrome do not proceed with diagnostic testing, and the vast majority (89%) consider screening the most important stage for receiving information about DS.( Meredith et al., 2023)
First investigation of seasonal changes in the ecological and anatomical traits of Launaea sarmentosa (Willd.) Kuntze (Compositae) on the Andaman coasts, Thailand
Authors: Meksuwan Yurachat , Sutthinon Pornsawan , Fontaneto Diego , Meksuwan Phuripong 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Launaea sarmentosa (Willd.) Kuntze, a creeping herb native to the Andaman coasts of Southern Thailand, faces significant threats from habitat loss and environmental changes following the 2004 tsunami. This study investigated its ecological and anatomical characteristics across four coastal sites in Phuket and Phang-Nga Provinces. Sampling was conducted during the rainy season (November 2023) and the dry season (April 2024). Results revealed shoot density and below-ground fresh weight were highest during the rainy season and at moderately sunny sites. The chlorophyll a/b ratio varied between seasons and sites, while the total chlorophyll/carotenoid ratio differed between sites but not seasons. Leaf anatomical features showed significant seasonal differences. Epidermis (upper and lower), mesophyll thickness, and upper epidermal cell area were greater during the dry season, but lower epidermal cell area showed no variation. In upper-layer soil, chloride content varied by season, while sand, clay, magnesium, and pH differed between sites. In lower-layer soil, sand, silt, chloride, and magnesium varied seasonally, while nitrogen, phosphorus, and calcium differed by site. Climatic variables also varied; air temperatures were lower, and relative humidity was higher during the rainy season, with the coolest, most humid conditions at moderately sunny sites. In summary, the favorable conditions of L. sarmentosa likely include moderately sunny environment, humid soil, and a high clay content, which were associated with higher shoot density and biomass, emphasizing the importance of seasonal and site-specific factors in promoting the growth and survival of L. sarmentosa in natural populations.
Assessment of Medical Foundation Models for Survival Prediction with Whole Slide Images
Authors: Menand Elena Spirina 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Survival prediction with whole slide images (WSIs) can provide guidance for a better patient care and treatment selection but it is a challenging computer vision task with its particularities. Despite the great results showed by the recent survival analysis models with WSIs, the collection of the large annotated WSI datasets for survival analysis could be hindered by disease rareness or clinical trials constraints and be infeasible in the real-life medical practice. To overcome these limitations we propose to assess the performance of the digital pathology foundation models for prediction of survival outcomes on the small size ovarian cancer datasets. Our experimental results demonstrate that these models show promising results, their improved performance open the possibility to investigate the mechanisms of response to a particular therapy and in general could accelerate the adoption of machine learning models in medical practice.
Hesperidin Improves Wound Healing and Mineralization of Periodontal Ligament Cells in Elevated Glucose Conditions
Authors: Aryal A C Smriti , Islam Md Sofiqul , Rani KG Aghila , Nassar Mohannad , Rahman Mohammed Mustahsen 
Published: January 2025

Introduction:
Elevated glucose can have a detrimental effect on the function
and healing process of periodontal cells in inflammatory conditions. Hesperidin (HPN),
a bioflavonoid found abundantly in citrus fruits, has numerous biological benefits, including
regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. The current in-vitro study aimed
to assess the impact of HPN on the proliferation, wound healing, and functionality of periodontal
cells in optimal and elevated glucose conditions.

Methods:
Human periodontal ligament cells (HPDLCs) were cultured in optimal glucose
(1g/L) (OG) and high glucose (4.5 g/L) (HG) conditions. XTT, wound healing,
ALP, and calcium release assays were conducted with or without HPN in the culture media.

Results:
The statistical analysis revealed that adding different concentrations of HPN (2,
4, 10, or 100 μM) had no significant effect on the viability of HPDLCs under both OG
(p=0.436) and HG conditions (p=0.162) compared to the control. However, in the HG
condition, the addition of 100 μM HPN resulted in a statistically significant increase in
wound closure (p=0.003). Furthermore, in the HG condition, the addition of 100 μM
HPN significantly increased ALP activity in the OS- media (p=0.001) and significantly
increased calcium release within the OS+ media (p=0.016).

Conclusion:
The findings of this study suggest that HPN provides beneficial effects, facilitating
repair and mineralization in HPDLCs under HG conditions.
Identifying Novel Therapeutic Opportunities for Dilated Cardiomyopathy: A Bioinformatics Approach to Drug Repositioning and Herbal Medicine
Prediction
Authors: Wang Jiao , Meng Tianwei , Si Na , Li Haihong , Yan Yan , Li Xinghua 
Published: January 2025

Background:
Dilated Cardiomyopathy (DCM) is a debilitating cardiovascular disorder
that challenges current therapeutic strategies. The exploration of novel drug repositioning
opportunities through gene expression analysis offers a promising avenue for discovering effective
treatments.

Objective:
This study aims to identify potential drug repositioning opportunities and lead compounds
for DCM treatment by optimizing gene expression characteristics using published data.

Methods:
Our approach involved analyzing DCM expression profiles from the Gene Expression
Omnibus database and identifying differentially expressed genes with GEO2R. A protein interaction
network was constructed using the STRING database and visualized with Cytoscape.
Enrichment analyses were conducted on these genes through the Omicshare platform, followed
by the identification of candidate compounds via the Connectivity Map (CMAP) and validation
through molecular docking. The Coremine Medical database was utilized to predict potential
herbal medicines.

Results:
We identified 29 differentially expressed genes, highlighting MYH6, NPPA, and NPPB
as central to DCM pathology. Enrichment analyses indicated significant impacts on biological
processes, such as organ morphogenesis and inflammatory responses. The AGE-RAGE signaling
pathway was notably affected. From over 6,100 compounds analyzed, tenoxicam emerged as a
promising candidate, with Radix Salviae Miltiorrhizae (Danshen) being suggested as a potential
herbal treatment.

Conclusion:
This study underscores the utility of bioinformatics in uncovering new therapeutic
candidates for DCM, offering a foundational step towards novel drug development.
Efficacy of Single Love Garlic Extract on Self Nanoemulsifying Drug Delivery System (SCGE-SNEDDS) on Cytokine Expression In Vitro
Authors: Baroroh Alif Rosyidah El , Annisa Yuslinda , Lestari Sri Rahayu , Susanto Hendra , Gofur Abdul , Sunaryono Sunaryono 
Published: January 2025

Single clove Garlic Extract (SCGE) is a potential agent for anti-inflammation, several bioactive are lipophilic, volatile. A novel drug delivery system is required to preserve the bioactive and enhance the solubility. Self Nanoemulsfying Drug Delivery System (SNEDDS) can load extract that formed from carrier oil (VCO), surfactant (Tween-80), and co-surfactant (Glycerol), SCGE-SNEDDS prepared by mixing the surfactant and co-surfactant and adding the carrier oil with SCGE (20 mg/ml). The characteristics response emulsification time in 73.82 ± 0.91 second, % transmittance value of 78.86 ± 0.23%, and pH of 6.83 ± 0.72. The average particle size was 0.46 ± 0.01, Z-Average 23.10 ± 0.69, and zeta potential -33.07 ± 0.45 mV. The toxicity assay was determined in the 3T3-L1 cell line using MTT. The dose SCGE-SNEDDS in rank 62.5, 125, 250, 500, 1000, 2000 and 4000 µg/mL. SCGE-SNEDDS have a good response, characteristics, proved to be non-cytotoxic, and high cell viability (83.3 %). SCGE-SNEDDS had potential effect on the expression of TNF-α, not potential decreases IL-1β and increases IL-10 cytokines in 3T3-L1 cells.
Validating the Instrument of Parents' Knowledge and Attitudes towards Giving Antibiotic for Children in two Hospitals at South Sulawesi
Authors: Yusni Saidi Nur Afra , Rante Herlina , Alkaff Sylmina Dalily , Arifin Bustanul 
Published: January 2025

To translate, adapt and validate the instrument of Parents' Knowledge and Attitudes towards giving Antibiotics for Children. Participants were recruited from two hospitals in South Sulawesi, one private and one government hospital. The study started with the translation of the instrument from English to Indonesian (forward and backward translation). Next, the translation result was tested on 40 participants. The final stage was validation involving 300 participants. The analysis used known group validity, construct validity, product-moment correlation, and factor analysis. Internal consistency between items used Cronbach Alpha. A total of 300 participants (200 in private hospitals and 100 in government hospitals). From the participants, 113 participants were outpatients and 187 were inpatients. In the adaptation stage, some vocabulary changes were made to sentences that were not understood by participants in instrument items using words easily understood by the participants. For example, in the knowledge domain, the word "pathogen" was changed to ‘disease-causing bacteria’. In the validation stage, the significance value was 5%, and the r-table value was 0.113. Based on the validity test on 14 items in the knowledge domain, the r-count value was 0.256-0.589, while on 12 items in the attitude domain, the r-count value was 0.375-0.662. The Kaiser-Meyer-Olkin (KMO) value was 0.793. From 14 question items in the knowledge domain, 3 factors were formed. Cronbach alpha value of each domain was >0.6, knowledge (0.759) and attitude (0.744). Instrument reliability for outpatient and inpatient care was 0.768 and 0.752 for knowledge, 0.740 and 0.744 for attitude, respectively. The results of this study indicate that the instrument of Parents' Knowledge and Attitudes towards giving Antibiotics to Children is reliable and valid. This instrument can be used for both outpatients and inpatients.
The cluster characteristics and influencing factors of China’s agricultural product importing countries: an analysis using machine learning
Authors: Zhang Xiaoheng , Yu Xiaojie , Liu Yifei , Xie Yini 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Ensuring food security in China requires leveraging the international market and identifying stable import channels for agricultural products. From 2002 to 2021, China’s agricultural imports increased from 12.47 billion dollars to 219.82 billion dollars, with an annual growth rate of 16.3%. Despite significant researches investigating the determinants of China’s agricultural product imports, gaps remain in understanding the clustering among source countries, under the context of the US-China trade decoupling and the rising anti-globalization sentiments. This paper employs advanced unsupervised machine learning techniques to cluster agricultural products based on their import values and annual growth rates. The results find three clusters: the High Growth Rate Cluster, with robust increases in exports to China; the Low Growth Rate Cluster, showing a decline; and the Outlier Cluster, including China’s top two agricultural trade partners. Additionally, our study examines the factors influencing the clustering of countries importing agricultural products, identifying the signing of free trade agreements as a notably positive influence. This paper also concludes with policy recommendations to enhance the stability and efficiency of China’s agricultural import channels.
Energy independence, rural sustainability and potential of bioenergy villages in Germany: machine learning perspectives
Authors: Maruejols Lucie , Höschle Lisa , Yu Xiaohua 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
In Germany, bioenergy villages (BEVs) are a community-centered model of rural energy transition that sells renewable energy generated from local biomass — essentially biogas — to residents who are cooperative members. BEVs are associated with economic viability, an interesting feature in the current context of narrowing subsidies that fostered the development of biogas production in Germany. They are acclaimed for fostering local energy autonomy, empowerment of rural communities, and sustainability. However, they remain marginal and require a lengthy and intricate process for development. Using Machine Learning methods, we aim to identify the untapped potential for BEVs in Germany, by predicting which municipalities with conventional, privately owned biogas operations could become BEVs. Results indicate that over 100 municipalities are potential candidates for transition to BEV. The article finds that compared to conventional villages, BEVs are characterized by strong citizen support for green political parties and more extensive experience with biogas plants. Although social factors like cohesion and human capital are crucial for successful transitions, the results show that the profiles of BEVs are not very distinct from conventional municipalities from their agricultural, demographic, and economic characteristics. This implies that many villages with conventional private biogas plants could become BEVs. Therefore, cooperative models of bioenergy present an avenue for the future of existing biogas plants in Germany in the context of decreasing subsidies.