bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Health symptoms and associated factors in times of a pandemic: a population-based study
Authors: Gerbecks J. , Plevier C. , Yzermans C. J. , Dückers M. L. A. , Baliatsas C. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Non-specific symptoms, such as headaches and sleep problems, are more common after disasters. They can become chronic, and impact emotional and physical functioning. However, limited research has focused on such symptoms in the context of a pandemic. This study investigated the association between perceived impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, and prevalence, duration, and severity of health symptoms.

Methods
A cross-sectional survey using validated questionnaires was conducted shortly after the first COVID-19 wave in 2020, with nearly 46,000 adult participants from Utrecht, the Netherlands. Negative binomial regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between pandemic-related factors and symptom reports, adjusting for demographics, chronic conditions, lifestyle, and socio-economic status.

Results
Perceived impact of the pandemic on stress levels, loneliness, anxiety and depression was consistently and significantly associated with symptom report, duration, and perceived severity. Incidence rate ratio’s (IRR) varied from 1.17 to 1.29. Delayed care during the pandemic was associated with severity of symptoms (IRR = 1.63; 99% confidence intervals (CI): 1.20–2.20). People that (suspected) got COVID-19 infected were at higher risk of symptom report, duration, and perceived severity (IRR around 1.20–1.28).

Conclusion
As with other disasters, the perceived impact of an immediate threat such as a pandemic can influence health symptoms, independent of health or socio-demographic factors. Understanding symptom patterns and risk factors can assist healthcare professionals and policymakers in identifying vulnerable groups, symptoms profiles, and improving care and support during and after pandemics.
Overexpression of multiple cytochrome P450 genes with and without knockdown resistance mutations confers high resistance to deltamethrin in Culex quinquefasciatus
Authors: Chamnanya Saowanee , Kiddela Benyapa , Saingamsook Jassada , Nachaiwieng Woottichai , Lumjuan Nongkran , Somboon Pradya , Yanola Jintana 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
The cytochrome P450s-mediated metabolic resistance and the target site insensitivity caused by the knockdown resistance (kdr) mutation in the voltage-gated sodium channel (vgsc) gene were the main mechanisms conferring resistance to deltamethrin in Culex quinquefasciatus from Thailand. This study aimed to investigate the expression levels of cytochrome P450 genes and detect mutations of the vgsc gene in deltamethrin-resistant Cx. quinquefasciatus populations in Thailand.

Methods
Two field-collected strains of Cx. quinquefasciatus, Cq_SP and Cq_NiH, were selected with deltamethrin to generate the resistant strains Cq_SP-R and Cq_NiH-R, respectively. Bioassays were tested on larvae and adults of each strain according to WHO methods. Eight cytochrome P450 genes were analyzed for the expression level using quantitative real time-PCR. The cDNA of mosquitoes was amplified and sequenced for four fragments of vgsc gene. The kdr L1014F mutation and the haplotype of the CYP9M10 gene were detected in survivor and dead mosquitoes after exposure to the deltamethrin WHO test paper. Statistical analyses were performed using Fisher’s exaction test.

Results
Bioassay tests revealed a significantly higher resistance level in Cq_SP-R than in Cq_NiH-R strains in both larvae and adults. All eight cytochrome P450 genes were significantly overexpressed in larvae of Cq_NiH-R strain compared to the parent and susceptible Cq_Sus strains. The CYP6AA7 and CYP9J34 genes had the highest expression ratios, exceeding 24-fold in Cq_NiH-R larvae. In Cq_SP-R strain, the CYP4H34 and CYP9J34 genes were overexpressed in both stages. The kdr L1014F mutation was found in Cq_SP-R and its parent Cq_SP strains with a significantly higher mutant allele frequency in the survivor mosquitoes than in dead mosquitoes (P < 0.0001). The V240M and novel L925F mutations were found only in Cq_SP-R strain. Heterozygous genotype for the D-Cu( +)/Cu(–) of CYP9M10 gene was detected in Cq_NiH and Cq_NiH-R strains but other strains were mostly homozygous for the Cu(–)/Cu(–).

Conclusions
Overexpression of multiple cytochrome P450 genes alone has a relatively minor impact on resistance. The combined mechanisms of cytochrome P450- and kdr-mediated resistance result in significantly higher resistance to deltamethrin in Cx. quinquefasciatus. This study supports sustainable public health initiatives in Thailand to address the evolving challenges of insecticide resistance.
Boswellic acid synergizes with low-dose ionizing radiation to mitigate thioacetamide-induced hepatic encephalopathy in rats
Authors: Saad Dina E. , Mansour Somaya Z. , Kandil Eman I. , Hassan Asmaa , Moawed Fatma S. M. , Elbakry Mustafa M. M. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Hepatic encephalopathy (HE) is a syndrome that arises from acute or chronic liver failure. This study was devised to assess the impact of a combination of boswellic acid (BA) and low doses of gamma radiation (LDR) on thioacetamide (TAA)-induced HE in an animal model. The effect of daily BA treatment (175 mg/kg body weight, for four weeks) and/or fractionated low-dose γ-radiation (LDR; 0.25 Gy, twice the total dose of 0.5 Gy) was evaluated against TAA (200 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) twice-weekly for four weeks to induce liver damage and HE in rats. TAA-exposed rats exhibited a significant elevation in serum activities of liver enzymes (GGT, ALP) and plasma ammonia levels at P < 0.05 (Duncan’s test) compared to the control group. Moreover, there was an increase in the levels of proinflammatory cytokines (IL6, IL12, IL18) in the TAA-exposed animals accompanied by a depletion in the activities of paraoxonase-1 and neurotransmitter contents compared with normal control rats (P < 0.05). However, the administration of BA alone or in combination with LDR led to improvements in liver and brain parameter indices. Furthermore, the histopathological assessments of liver and brain tissues supported the findings of the biochemical investigations. From the statistical analysis, it can be concluded that the combined administration of BA and exposure to LDR may possess potential hepatoprotective effects against hepatic encephalopathy-associated hyperammonemia and the consequent damage to the liver and brain. This study proposes that a combination of therapeutic approaches, LDR and BA could be a new therapeutic candidate for the management of hepatic encephalopathy.
Impact of hyper- and hypothermia on cellular and whole-body physiology
Authors: Iba Toshiaki , Kondo Yutaka , Maier Cheryl L. , Helms Julie , Ferrer Ricard , Levy Jerrold H. 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The incidence of heat-related illnesses and heatstroke continues to rise amidst global warming. Hyperthermia triggers inflammation, coagulation, and progressive multiorgan dysfunction, and, at levels above 40 °C, can even lead to cell death. Blood cells, particularly granulocytes and platelets, are highly sensitive to heat, which promotes proinflammatory and procoagulant changes. Key factors in heatstroke pathophysiology involve mitochondrial thermal damage and excessive oxidative stress, which drive apoptosis and necrosis. While the kinetics of cellular damage from heat have been extensively studied, the mechanisms driving heat-induced organ damage and death are not yet fully understood. Converse to hyperthermia, hypothermia is generally protective, as seen in therapeutic hypothermia. However, accidental hypothermia presents another environmental threat due to arrhythmias, cardiac arrest, and coagulopathy. From a cellular physiology perspective, hypothermia generally supports mitochondrial homeostasis and enhances cell preservation, aiding whole-body recovery following resuscitation. This review summarizes recent findings on temperature-related cellular damage and preservation and suggests future research directions for understanding the tempo-physiologic axis.
Investigating continuous intention to use metaverse in higher education institutions: a dual-staged structural equation modeling-artificial neural network approach
Authors: Ali Reham Adel , Soliman Mohamed , Weahama Muhammad Roflee , Assalihee Muhammadafeefee , Mahmud Imran 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The current study explores metaverse adoption among higher education institutions (HEIs) in the light of a theoretical framework to empower future perspectives of the metaverse as a learning platform. Even though this technology was just recently introduced to the higher education sector, very few attempts have been made to evaluate its impact. The purpose of this research is to analyze the elements that influence the continuous intention (CI) to utilize the metaverse technology in learning. The technology acceptance model (TAM) and the self-determination theory (SDT) are both included in this study. A questionnaire was developed and distributed to students attending private universities in order to obtain the data that was needed for the proposed model. Using a hybrid approach that consists of partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) and an artificial neural network (ANN) model, which combines a linear PLS model with compensation and a nonlinear ANN model without compensation, the effect of CI on using the metaverse as a learning platform is investigated. This approach was chosen because it contains both of these types of models. When it comes to explaining the use of metaverse technology among students attending higher education institutions in Egypt, the research findings suggested that autonomy and perceived usefulness (PU) are major determinants. Nevertheless, the continuing intention was unaffected by the perceived ease of use (PEOU) of the product. Furthermore, according to the data provided by the ANN model, the most significant predictors are relatedness, PEOU, autonomy, and PU. It has been determined that the results obtained from the PLS-SEM and ANN modes are identical. Additionally, both theoretical and practical implications are discussed in this article.
Tuning electronic structure and carrier transport properties through crystal orientation control in two-dimensional Dion-Jacobson phase perovskites
Authors: Kim Byunggeol , Park Jeehong , Kang Donghee , Jung Na Eun , Kim Kitae , Ryu Hongsun , Jang Joon Ik , Park Soohyung , Yi Yeonjin 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Two-dimensional halide perovskites are attracting attention due to their structural diversity, improved stability, and enhanced quantum efficiency compared to their three-dimensional counterparts. In particular, Dion-Jacobson (DJ) phase perovskites exhibit superior structural stability compared to Ruddlesden-Popper phase perovskites. The inherent quantum well structure of layered perovskites leads to highly anisotropic charge transport and optical properties. Therefore, controlling the preferred crystal orientation (parallel or perpendicular) is crucial for optimizing device performance. This work presents a rational strategy to control parallel and perpendicular crystal growth in C6N2H16PbI4 (4AMPPbI4)-based DJ phase perovskite thin films. We demonstrate that crystal orientation depends on crystal growth rates, which can be controlled by varying the solvent composition, antisolvent, and annealing temperature. Direct and inverse photoelectron spectroscopy reveals that the electronic structure of 4AMPPbI4, including its work function, ionization energy, and electron affinity, is orientation-dependent. Different orientations significantly affect carrier transport as confirmed by single-carrier devices. This study highlights the critical role of crystal orientation in DJ phase perovskites for designing high-performance optoelectronic devices.

Graphical Abstract
How geomagnetic storms affect the loss of Starlink satellites in February 2022?
Authors: Ahmad Nizam , Kilowasid La Ode Muhammad Musafar , Fakhrurroja Hanif , Neflia  , Rachman Abdul , Husin Asnawi , Fathoni Haries 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
On February 8, 2022, approximately 40 of the 49 Starlink satellites were reported to have lost altitude, leading to atmospheric re-entry. SpaceX reported that the orbital decay on Starlink satellites was considered to be linked to a geomagnetic storm that was initiated on February 3, 2022. We attempted to analyze the cause of orbital decay by sampling all Starlink satellites registered in the SpaceTrack database and then tracing some space weather parameters and species density variations in the thermospheric layer. We employed the solar wind and IMF Bz to see their impact on geomagnetic activity. Moreover, we also analyzed the electric field Ey, Dst, AE, and Ap indices in addition to the solar EUV flux to see their impact on the Starlink satellite environment. We discovered three geomagnetic substorms during the analysis period: two successive substorms on February 4 and 5, and one additional substorm on February 10. We inferred that magnetic substroms significantly affected species densities, mainly O, O2, and N2, around some Starlink satellites, leading to an increase in atmospheric drag. There was a time delay between the substorms and orbital decay on Starlink satellites. However, some Starlink satellites were not affected by geomagnetic substorms due to insignificant changes in their environment. The reason for this is that, despite having lower altitudes, all decaying Starlinks were located in the midnight-dawn sector, in which the drift of ionospheric currents was predominantly driven by westward electrojets. On the other hand, all non-decaying Starlink satellites that had higher altitudes resided in the dusk–midnight sector of magnetic local time, where the impact of substorms insignificantly affected their altitudes.

Graphical Abstract
Humidity dependence of AE activity in sheared quartz gouges and its implication for the micromechanics of friction
Authors: Yabe Yasuo 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The micromechanics of friction has been investigated from the viewpoint of the healing of real contacts. In this study, the underlying processes of friction are discussed from the viewpoint of the contact junction deformation and failure by measuring the acoustic emission (AE) activity associated with the frictional sliding. Sliding-rate step tests of synthetic quartz gouges sandwiched between metal forcing blocks are conducted using a low-speed (< 700 μm/s) rotary shear apparatus. Humidity is controlled to be dry (~ 5%RH), room (~ 40%RH), humid (100%RH), or wet (saturated without pore pressure control). The frictional behavior is modeled by the rate- and state-dependent friction (RSF) law with two state variables. Shorter critical slip distances of the state evolution would be about the contact junction size, while longer critical slip distances are close to the average diameter of gouge particles. The AE activities are evaluated by AE rate that is the number of AE events per unit sliding distance and the m-value that characterizes the amplitude distribution. As variations in AE activities and the evolution term (

$${b}_{1}$$

b
1

) with the shorter critical slip distance highly correlate, AE activity may reflect the state of contact junction. While

$${b}_{1}$$

b
1

increases with increasing water vapor from dry to humid, AE rate and the m-value are decreased. This may be caused by an increase in inelasticity of the contact junction deformation. Under wet conditions,

$${b}_{1}$$

b
1

is similar to that under the humid condition, AE rate is further decreased but the m-value becomes significantly large. This is probably because the failure process of the contact junction changes to less brittle one, implying the impact of phase of water (vapor or liquid) on the brittleness of the failure processes of contact junction.

Graphical Abstract
Prophage-DB: a comprehensive database to explore diversity, distribution, and ecology of prophages
Authors: Dieppa-Colón Etan , Martin Cody , Kosmopoulos James C. , Anantharaman Karthik 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Viruses that infect prokaryotes (phages) constitute the most abundant group of biological agents, playing pivotal roles in microbial systems. They are known to impact microbial community dynamics, microbial ecology, and evolution. Efforts to document the diversity, host range, infection dynamics, and effects of bacteriophage infection on host cell metabolism are extremely underexplored. Phages are classified as virulent or temperate based on their life cycles. Temperate phages adopt the lysogenic mode of infection, where the genome integrates into the host cell genome forming a prophage. Prophages enable viral genome replication without host cell lysis, and often contribute novel and beneficial traits to the host genome. Current phage research predominantly focuses on lytic phages, leaving a significant gap in knowledge regarding prophages, including their biology, diversity, and ecological roles.

Results
Here we develop and describe Prophage-DB, a database of prophages, their proteins, and associated metadata that will serve as a resource for viral genomics and microbial ecology. To create the database, we identified and characterized prophages from genomes in three of the largest publicly available databases. We applied several state-of-the-art tools in our pipeline to annotate these viruses, cluster them, taxonomically classify them, and detect their respective auxiliary metabolic genes. In total, we identify and characterize over 350,000 prophages and 35,000 auxiliary metabolic genes. Our prophage database is highly representative based on statistical results and contains prophages from a diverse set of archaeal and bacterial hosts which show a wide environmental distribution.

Conclusion
Given that prophages are particularly overlooked and merit increased attention due to their vital implications for microbiomes and their hosts, we created Prophage-DB to advance our understanding of prophages in microbiomes through a comprehensive characterization of prophages in publicly available genomes. We propose that Prophage-DB will serve as a valuable resource for advancing phage research, offering insights into viral taxonomy, host relationships, auxiliary metabolic genes, and environmental distribution.
Low-cost male urogenital simulator for penile implant surgery training: a 3D printing approach
Authors: Wang Zixi , Saija Carlo , Raison Nicholas , Aydin Abdullatif , Xu Zhouyang , Zuo Katie , Rhode Kawal , Pontiki Antonia 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Penile implant surgery is the standard surgical treatment for end-stage erectile dysfunction. However, the growing complexity of modern high-tech penile prostheses has increased the demand for more practical training opportunities. The most advanced contemporary training methods involve simulation training using cadavers, with costs exceeding $5,000 per cadaver, inclusive of biohazard fees. This study introduces an innovative and cost-efficient male urogenital simulator designed to enhance penile implant surgery training.

Methods
Utilizing image segmentation of patient pre-operative computed tomography (CT) scans, combined with three-dimensional (3D) printing and silicone molding techniques, we developed a high-fidelity simulator replicating the anatomical structures of the male urogenital system. The simulator incorporates an innovative double-layer structural design encompassing the corpus spongiosum and glans, corpora cavernosa, testes, epididymides, and pelvic bones. Additionally, it utilizes a two-stage skin manufacturing process tailored for different skin regions. The simulator was produced at a low material cost of £10, with an average production time of 3 h. To evaluate its training efficacy, we conducted a penile implant surgery training session involving 15 urology trainees and surgeons ranging from specialty training levels ST3 to ST6. The session began with a demonstration of penile implant surgery and error detection. Trainees, averaging three per simulator, practiced corporotomy, dilation, measurement, penile prosthesis, and scrotal pump placement under expert guidance. Participants’ feedback was collected using a Likert scale questionnaire, assessing learning, satisfaction, and anatomical accuracy.

Results
Quantitative analysis of the questionnaire responses indicated highly positive feedback from the participants. Satisfaction rates surpassed 96% in learning effectiveness, over 89% in overall satisfaction, and 86% in anatomical accuracy demonstration. The simulator was favourably reviewed by both urology trainees and experienced surgeons, highlighting its utility as a practical training tool. Its low production cost and high precision make it a viable alternative to current training models.

Conclusions
The development of this cost-efficient, anatomically accurate urogenital simulator through advanced imaging and additive manufacturing techniques represents a significant advancement in penile implant surgical training. This state-of-the-art simulator not only provides a realistic and practical training experience but also underscores the potential for 3D printing technologies to revolutionize medical education and training.
Sarcomatous tumor with external iliac vein aneurysm: a rare entity
Authors: Kalekar Tushar , Jhala Neeha Amit , Kapoor Reetika , Durgi Eshan Chetan , Krishnani Karishma 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
Soft tissue sarcomas are uncommon mesenchymal malignancies that typically manifest as extremity masses. Their highly vascular nature can induce arteriovenous shunting, potentially leading to venous complications. Venous aneurysms, which represent isolated dilations of the venous system, are rare vascular phenomena that can occur throughout the body, with iliac vein involvement being particularly uncommon. While these aneurysms can be primary or secondary in nature, secondary cases predominate and require prompt medical attention due to risks of rupture and thromboembolic events. This case report describes an unusual presentation of thigh soft tissue sarcoma complicated by external iliac venous aneurysm formation, highlighting the importance of early recognition and management of vascular complications in sarcoma patients.

Case presentation
A middle-aged male in his fifties presented to the emergency department with continuous bleeding from a wound over a right inguinal swelling that had been ongoing for four hours. Initial ultrasound examination revealed a large heterogeneous soft tissue tumor in the subcutaneous plane of the right proximal thigh region with increased vascularity. This was associated with a large fusiform dilatation arising from the proximal portion of the right external iliac vein, showing a 'yin-yang sign' on color Doppler, suggestive of a right external iliac vein aneurysm. These findings were confirmed by contrast-enhanced arteriography, venography, and histopathology. The condition was diagnosed as soft tissue sarcoma and was treated accordingly.

Conclusions
This case highlights the importance of comprehensive vascular assessment in soft tissue sarcoma patients, as these rare tumors (1% of all malignancies) can cause secondary venous aneurysms through increased retrograde flow. While initial diagnosis relies on duplex ultrasound with color Doppler, additional imaging modalities such as CT venography, real-time venography, and MRI are essential for detailed evaluation. Management options include surgical resection with venorrhaphy, patch repair, venous bypass, or endovascular techniques like coil embolization. This case emphasizes the necessity of early detection and appropriate intervention to prevent potentially life-threatening complications.