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Association between high-density-lipoprotein cholesterol and postoperative recovery from lumbar disc herniation

Objective The levels of high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) correlate with lumbar spine degeneration, but their value for predicting the prognosis of the lumbar spine is unclear. This study was implemented to explore whether HDL-C levels were associated with postoperative recovery from lumbar disc herniation (LDH). Methods Patients with LDH who underwent posterior lumbar interbody fusion (PLIF) admitted between January 1 st , 2018, and December 31 st , 2022, were included in this study. The outcome was postoperative recovery as assessed by the economic-functional score. The primary exposure variable was the postoperative plasma HDL-C level. LASSO regression was used to screen for variables associated with outcome, and GAM modeling was used to determine cutoff values for HDL-C levels, with the adjusted model used to estimate the relative contribution of each variable. HDL-C levels were transformed into a dichotomous variable based on the cutoff values, and multifactorial logistic regression was used to assess OR. Results A total of 967 patients with LDH were included 529 males (54.7%), 438 females (45.3%), mean age 49.63 ± 12.51 years, mean HDL-C level 1.14 ± 0.25 mmol/L. LASSO regression showed that HDL-C was associated with outcome, there was a risk-protecting effect in the GAM with a cutoff value of 1.15 mmol/L. According to the commonly used clinical classification method, logistic regression showed that normal levels of HDL-C were protective compared with abnormal levels (OR=1.553, 95% CI,1.017–2.372, P = 0.042). HDL-C had a U-shaped effect in patients without cerebral disease, with a range of 1.1–1.8 mmol/L promoting recovery,and in the subgroup without cerebral disease, HDL-C level ranked 6 out of 20 variables, whereas in the overall cohort it ranked 14th and showed no significant effect. Logistic regression showed a protective effect of normal levels of HDL-C over abnormal levels (OR=1.900, 95% CI,1.206–2.992, P = 0.006). Conclusion Postoperative HDL-C levels were not significantly associated with 1-year postoperative functional recovery in the overall cohort of patients undergoing PLIF for LDH. In a pre-specified subgroup of patients without cerebral disease, postoperative HDL-C levels exhibited a significant U-shaped association with recovery (optimal range 1.1–1.8 mmol/L). These findings are hypothesis-generating and require validation in future studies.

Effects of light qualities on the growth and photosynthetic characteristics of Sorbus tianschanica Rupr. seedlings

Light quality is an important environmental factor influencing plant growth and development, but its effects on functional traits and physiological processes in woody seedlings remain unclear. In this study, Sorbus tianschanica Rupr. seedlings were grown under four colored film treatments (red, blue, green, and white) to assess their effects on growth, leaf anatomy, chloroplast ultrastructure, photosynthetic performance, enzyme activities, and carbohydrate accumulation. Blue film significantly increased seedling height growth rate, whereas red film promoted ground diameter growth ( P  < 0.05). Stomatal aperture, size, and density were highest under blue film. Leaves under blue and red films were thicker and more compact, while those under green film were thinner and less structured. Chloroplasts in the blue treatment showed well-organized grana and stroma lamellae, whereas those under green film were disorganized. Photosynthetic pigment contents were higher under red, blue, and green films than under white film ( P  < 0.05). Net photosynthetic rate ( Pn ), stomatal conductance ( Gs ), and transpiration rate ( Tr ) were higher under blue and red films, and lowest under green film. Light response parameters, including maximum net photosynthetic rate ( Pn max ) and light saturation point ( LSP ), were also higher under blue and red treatments. Chlorophyll fluorescence parameters ( ΦPSII and qP ) and photosynthetic enzyme activities were highest under blue film. Blue film also increased carbohydrate accumulation, particularly in leaves and roots. Multilevel fuzzy comprehensive evaluation (MFCE) indicated that blue film had the highest overall performance. These results suggest that light quality affects seedling growth through changes in leaf structure, chloroplast organization, photosynthetic capacity, and carbon assimilation, with blue light providing the most favorable conditions for Sorbus tianschanica Rupr. seedlings.

Preoperative and perioperative factors that predict graft failure 1 year after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty

Purpose To identify pre/perioperative factors that predict graft failure after Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK). Methods This retrospective cohort study included consecutive eyes that underwent DMEK in 2015–2023 in a regional referral hospital and were followed for at least 12 months. DMEK-graft failure was defined as need for regrafting during follow-up. Univariable analysis of graft-failure associations with 20 covariates was performed. Hierarchical multivariable analysis was conducted for DMEK-graft failure with covariates whose univariable-analysis p-values were ≤0.15. Posthoc univariable analyses were performed to elucidate the mechanisms by which covariates promoted DMEK-graft failure. Results 171 eyes (129 patients) with mostly Fuchs endothelial corneal dystrophy (94%) were included. Median (range) follow-up was 24 (12–29) months, during which 15 grafts (9%) failed. On univariable analyses, graft failure associated with eight variables, including long (≥25 mm) preoperative axial length (AXL): 40% of graft-failure eyes had AXL ≥ 25 mm vs. 13% for graft-success eyes (p = 0.01). On multivariable analysis, graft failure was predicted by AXL ≥ 25 mm (OR=5.70; 95%CI = 1.27–25.68; p = 0.02), younger graft-donor age (OR=0.93; 95%CI = 0.88–0.99; p = 0.02), graft-unscrolling/positioning difficulties (OR=6.93; 95%CI = 1.58–30.48; p = 0.01), and major graft detachment (OR=6.28; 95%CI = 1.36–28.96; p = 0.02). The model accounted for 14% of total graft-failure variance. Posthoc univariable analysis showed that eyes with AXL ≥ 25 experienced graft-unscrolling/positioning difficulties more often than shorter eyes (27% vs. 10%, p = 0.0497). Conclusions Eyes with long AXL (≥25 mm) may be more prone to DMEK-graft failure than shorter eyes. This may reflect the deep anterior chamber, which can complicate graft unscrolling and/or graft positioning. The additional graft handling may induce endothelial-cell loss and subsequent graft failure. Younger donor age weakly predicted DMEK-graft failure, possibly due to tighter scrolling of younger grafts. Major graft detachment strongly predicted DMEK-graft failure. This could reflect surgical and/or rebubbling-induced endothelial damage and/or pre-existing graft weakness.

Patterns of inpatient antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance in the surgical wards of a Ugandan tertiary hospital: A mixed methods study

Background Inappropriate antibiotic use in surgical wards is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially in low- and middle-income countries, where empirical prescribing is common. This study assessed inpatient antibiotic use and AMR patterns, integrating these findings with qualitative in-depth interviews (IDIs) which explored determinants of prescribing practices. Methods A convergent mixed methods study design was employed on the surgical wards of Mulago National Referral Hospital (MNRH) in Uganda. Quantitative data was collected through Point Prevalence Surveys (PPS) of antibiotic use and retrospective analysis of routine laboratory AMR data. Qualitative data was obtained through IDIs with healthcare workers (HCWs). Quantitative data was analysed using R version 4.2.2 and STATA 19. In-depth interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim, open coded and then analysed using NVivo 12. Results Of 303 total surgical inpatients, 193/303 (63.7%) (95% CI: 58.0–69.12) were receiving at least one of the 281 antibiotic prescriptions and were included in this study. Surgical antibiotic prophylaxis (SAP) accounted for 256/281 (91.1%) of all antibiotic prescriptions, with 239/256 (93.4%) SAP extending beyond the first 24 hours. Ceftriaxone 89/281 (31.7%) (95% CI: 26.27–37.46), metronidazole 66/281 (23.5%) (95% CI: 18.66–28.89) and levofloxacin 24/281 (8.5%) (95% CI: 11.61–20.44) were most prescribed antibiotic agents. Watch category antibiotics were most used 152/281 (54.1%) (95%: 48.08–60.08), followed by Access category 129/281 (45.9%) (95% CI: 39.9–51.9). Although HCWs demonstrated awareness of AMS principles, formal stewardship systems were fragmented, and prescribing behaviour was strongly influenced by laboratory constraints, infection prevention and control (IPC) gaps and systemic challenges. Conclusion Prolonged SAP and Watch category predominant prescribing occur within a context of high AMR prevalence and constrained AMS infrastructure. Integrated AMS interventions combining institutional antibiograms and their reinforcement, audit and feedback mechanisms, establishment of clear AMS structures and laboratory capacity strengthening are urgently needed to mitigate AMR and optimize surgical antibiotic use.

Revisiting the grammaticalization of future be going to: A corpus-based approach

Through the quantification of frequency, existing corpus-based quantitative studies on grammaticalization offer a new direction for empirical investigation. However, most existing studies focus on general frequencies, failing to elucidate the relationship between frequency and grammaticalization. The proposition of critical frequency can reveal the relationship between frequency and grammaticalization and confirm the “threshold” that triggers grammaticalization. The present study explores the critical frequency (i.e., synchronic intensity and diachronic thickness) of future be going to and clarifies the relationship between its critical frequency and general frequency based on the corpora of EEBO, Google Books and COCA. The corpora are large enough for tracing the development of the fully grammaticalized be going to . Furthermore, the results retrieved from them can be mutually verified, thereby ensuring the validity of the present study. Quantitative analyses, including Chi-square test and linear regression test, are performed on the retrieved results. The findings include: (1) the diachronic thickness of future be going to lasts for 110 years (i.e., 1580–1690) and the synchronic intensity amounts to 0.81 per million words; (2) The critical frequency and the general frequency of future be going to are closely correlated. The present study confirms the threshold for triggering the grammaticalization of future be going to and elucidates the relationship between its critical frequency and general frequency. This study provides insights for future quantitative research on grammaticalization.

Ionospheric TEC anomalies analysis and prediction during six volcanic eruptions using a Hybrid ML-DL model and comparison with the AR/MLR Models

Eruption of volcanoes is associated with the emission of great energy through the propagation of atmospheric waves up into space. These waves cause significant disturbances in the ionosphere, a region that contains a large number of ions and electrons and is important in providing communications through radio waves and satellites. Disturbances may cause the formation of Equatorial Plasma Bubbles and low-density pockets, leading to signal distortion, time delays, and sometimes, loss of signals in satellites. The Global Positioning System (GPS) becomes inaccurate due to these disturbances since GPS uses information on the positions of user locations. Satellite-based services like the internet and telephony may be affected by the disturbances in the ionosphere caused by a high number of electrons. Prediction of these disturbances makes it possible to plan ways of mitigating against them during future eruptions. Total Electron Content (TEC) data used in this research were mainly obtained from the BAKO station in Indonesia, in addition to other latitudes, in order to prove the universality of the model. The Hybrid Machine Learning and Deep Learning (ML-DL) Model, which is a combination of Light Gradient Boosting Machine (LightGBM) and Long Short-Term Memory networks (LSTM) algorithms, was designed based on a weighted average and applied in forecasting TEC values. Performance of the model was compared with other independent models, i.e., individual LightGBM and LSTM, as well as the conventional Autoregressive (AR) and Multiple Linear Regression (MLR) models. Four evaluation measures were used in evaluating the performance of models. This study aims to assess the performance of the Hybrid ML-DL Model in predicting TEC during ionospheric disturbances caused by volcanic eruptions. TEC prediction was done in six major eruptions, including Mt. Kelud (2014), Mt. Sinabung (2016), Mt. Semeru (2021), Mt. Ruang (2024), Mt. Etna (2013), and Mt. La Soufriere (2021). The Hybrid ML-DL Model consistently performs better than the individual LightGBM and LSTM models and the traditional AR and MLR models in predicting TEC values. For example, during the Mt. Ruang eruption, which was the highest eruption disturbance analyzed with a maximum disturbance of 100–110 TECU between April 16th and May 7th, 2024, the Hybrid ML-DL Model scored an RMSE of 2.841 TECU, which was much lower than RMSE values of LightGBM (3.484 TECU), LSTM (5.084 TECU), MLR (5.345 TECU) and AR Model (6.285 TECU). The Hybrid ML-DL Model showed the least value in three performance evaluation criteria, including NRMSE (0.030), MBD (0.546 TECU), and RLE (0.069) among other models.

A 3-dimensional Resnet model for assessment of drug efficacy in 3D cancer models using optical coherence tomography

Ninety percent of drugs fail during clinical trials, mainly due to lack of clinical efficacy. Recent developments in in vitro models such as 3D tumor heterospheroids have led to improvements in failure rates, but the relative lack of standardized evaluation methods for 3D cultures limits their utility in high-throughput screening. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) shows significant promise for high-throughput screening of 3D models; however, the optimal classification model and key image features for assessing drug efficacy in OCT images of spheroids has yet to be explored in detail. In this study, we investigate whether OCT combined with machine learning methods can be used to identify biomarkers of drug efficacy in 3D tumor spheroid models. We further compare the performance of two different models to determine the optimal configuration for accurate classification. Volumetric OCT images were acquired of co-cultured HT29 spheroids treated with 3 different concentrations of cisplatin. A two-dimensional multi-view ResNet model and a three-dimensional ResNet model were used to classify the images and to identify key image features associated with each group. Differences between spheroids treated with different concentrations of cisplatin are clearly visible in the OCT images. Our model was able to classify the images based on cisplatin concentration with 71.9% accuracy using the 2D multi-view model and 91.2% accuracy using the 3D model. Key features in the 3D model significantly improved the model accuracy. These results underscore the possibility that OCT could be used for high-throughput screening of drugs using 3D in vitro models and highlight key identifying features for further investigation.

Improving performance of polygenic risk scores for hypertension across two ancestry groups

Polygenic risk score (PRS) methods are evolving, and the benefit of adding functional annotations to the variant weights has been especially promising. However, less attention has been given to how the linkage disequilibrium (LD) reference panel used affects the score performance. In the current study, we compared two Bayesian approaches, one that incorporates functional annotations (LDpred-funct) and one that does not (PRS-CS), extending these applications to the hypertension (HTN) trait across two ancestry groups (European Americans EA, and African Americans, AA). In PRS-CS we used the standard HapMap 3 LD (HM3) reference panel, as well as a modified multi-ancestry reference panel (TagIt) with better coverage of variants from multiple ancestries. Individual-level data in 1,533 EA (58% with HTN) and 8,603 AA (71% with HTN) participants from the Reasons for Geographic and Racial Differences in Stroke Study (REGARDS) was used to optimize scores across the two approaches. PRS performance metrics including R 2 and odds ratios (OR) per standard deviation (SD) were then used to assess PRS performance in 1,270 EA (55% with HTN) and 1,896 AA (69% with HTN) participants from the Hypertension Genetic Epidemiology Network Study (HyperGEN). Among EAs in HyperGEN we observed an R 2 of 6.0% for LDpred-funct and R 2 of 7.3% for PRS-CS-TagIt versus R 2 of 1.4% for PRS-CS-HM3. The magnitude of the OR per SD for HTN was also higher for PRS-CS-TagIt OR=2.17 (95% CI 1.65–2.85, p = 3.0*10 −8 ) and LDpred-funct OR=2.14 (95% CI 1.61–2.85, p = 1.46*10 −7 ) versus PRS-CS-HM3 (OR=1.40; 95% CI 1.07–1.82, p = 1.19*10 −2 ). Among AAs in HyperGEN, the improvements were more modest, where we observed R 2 of 1.9% for LDpred-funct and R 2 of 2.9% for PRS-CS-TagIt versus 0.7% for PRS-CS-HM3. We found that both annotations and the updated LD panel improved the scores in both ancestry groups, but did not make the scores more equitable across the groups.

Phylogeography and genetic diversity of Pieris rapae across continents

The small cabbage white butterfly ( Pieris rapae ) is a globally distributed agricultural pest that has successfully colonized most continents through natural and human-mediated dispersal. This study investigates the global genetic diversity and phylogeographic structure of Pieris rapae using mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) sequences. A total of 1,133 sequences from five continents (Africa, Asia, Europe, North America, and Oceania) were analyzed to assess haplotype diversity, nucleotide diversity, population structure, and evolutionary relationships. Across the dataset, 117 haplotypes were identified, with overall high haplotype diversity (Hd = 0.8635) and moderate nucleotide diversity (π = 0.00610). Europe exhibited the highest genetic diversity, while North America showed low haplotype diversity but comparatively high nucleotide divergence, suggesting multiple introduction events. Minimum spanning network analysis revealed a star-like pattern with several widely shared central haplotypes, indicating recent expansion and extensive dispersal. Phylogenetic analysis identified two major mitochondrial clades, with North American haplotypes distributed across both clades. AMOVA results showed that most genetic variation occurred within populations (71.62%), although significant differentiation existed among continents (FST = 0.28385, p < 0.05). Pairwise FST and gene flow estimates indicated restricted intercontinental gene exchange, while the Mantel test showed no significant isolation by distance. Overall, the results suggest a complex invasion history shaped by historical introductions, demographic expansion, and human-mediated dispersal.

Prevalence and associated risk factors of Pseudomonas aeruginosa infection in Diabetic wounds in Duhok province, Iraq

Background and aims Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder and a major global health problem, predisposing patients to wound infections, with Pseudomonas aeruginosa being a frequent and resistant pathogen. This study aimed to identify P. aeruginosa , assess associated risk factors, and determine its antibiotic susceptibility pattern in diabetic wound infections in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from June 2024 to July 2025 in Duhok Province, Kurdistan Region, Iraq. A total of 141 wound swab samples were collected from diabetic patients aged ≥18 years. P. aeruginosa was identified using biochemical tests, Vitek®2, and 16S rDNA PCR. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed by the disc diffusion method on Mueller–Hinton agar, and data were analyzed using GraphPad Prism software. Results Out of 141 wound infection samples collected from diabetic patients, P. aeruginosa was isolated in 44.68% of cases. Overall, sociodemographic factors showed no significant association with PsA infection, except for occupational status in the multivariable analysis 0.12 [0.02–0.97, p = 0.046] and overweight 0.29 [0.10–0.82, p = 0.019]. Clinically, most variables including HbA1c, duration of diabetes, comorbidities, treatment type, and wound characteristics were not significantly associated with PsA infection. The only significant predictor was wound location, with leg-region infections showing a higher risk of PsA 3.94 [1.24–12.5, p = 0.02]. P. aeruginosa isolates showed high levels of multidrug resistance, especially to aztreonam, ceftazidime, cefepime, and tobramycin. Colistin showed the lowest resistance and highest sensitivity, followed by relatively better susceptibility to carbapenems. Conclusion P. aeruginosa is a common cause of wound infections in patients with diabetes mellitus, with its prevalence significantly associated with body mass index, occupational status and wound location, with leg-region wounds showing a higher risk. P. aeruginosa isolates demonstrated high multidrug resistance, although colistin and carbapenems retained relatively better activity. Early detection and appropriate antibiotic selection are essential to reduce complications and improve patient outcomes.

Menstrual dignity and menstrual experiences among riverside adolescents in the Brazilian Amazon: participatory development of an educational technology using Paulo Freire’s research itinerary

Objective To understand menstrual experiences and perceptions of menstrual dignity among riverside adolescent girls in the Brazilian Amazon in order to support the participatory co-creation of an educational technology using Paulo Freire’s research itinerary. Methods Technology development research, with a qualitative approach and participatory interface, grounded in Paulo Freire’s research itinerary, composed of three stages: thematic investigation, coding/decoding and critical unveiling. The study was conducted in a public school located on Caratateua Island, Pará, Brazil, with the participation of 10 adolescents, and the investigation was operationalized through Culture Circles. Data were collected through audio recordings and field diary notes and analyzed using inductive thematic analysis aligned with Freirean stages, and the findings supported the participatory co-creation of an educational technology in the format of a comic book. Results Three main thematic categories emerged: (1) menstruation as emotional and daily life disruption, (2) silence and limited dialogue about menstrual experiences, and (3) sociocultural beliefs influencing menstrual care practices. These findings informed the development of a culturally contextualized comic book addressing menstrual knowledge, self-care, and menstrual dignity. Conclusion The findings highlight the importance of culturally grounded educational approaches for menstrual health. The participatory co-creation process enabled the development of an educational resource aligned with adolescents’ lived experiences and may support future health education strategies and research in menstrual health promotion.

Correction: Study on the pathogenesis of PLXNB1 gene in olfactory dysfunction of allergic rhinitis

Association between cervical spine clinical active range of motion and pain or disability in people with neuromusculoskeletal neck pain: A systematic review and meta-analysis

Objectives To quantify the association between clinical cervical active range of motion and patient-reported outcomes of pain and disability in people with neuromusculoskeletal neck pain. Design Systematic review and meta-analysis following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023417317). Methods A comprehensive search of six databases and grey literature up to December 2024 identified observational studies reporting cross-sectional correlations between active range of motion and patient-reported outcomes in adults with neck pain. Risk of bias was assessed using an adapted National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool. Eight meta-analyses were conducted using random-effects models. Heterogeneity, subgroup analyses (acute versus chronic neck pain, whiplash-related versus non-traumatic), and meta-regressions (age, sex, publication year, risk of bias) were performed. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Results 45 studies (total N = 3,494) were included. Meta-analyses showed statistically significant small to moderate negative correlations (r = −0.21 to −0.34) between active range of motion and patient-reported outcomes in all planes of motion, with stronger associations in acute and whiplash-related neck pain. Substantial heterogeneity (I 2  = 67–91%) was partly explained by symptom duration and mechanism of onset. Certainty of evidence was very low due to risk of bias, inconsistency, and imprecision. Conclusions Cervical active range of motion is modestly associated with pain and disability, especially in acute and traumatic neck pain. Findings should be interpreted with caution. Standardized measurement protocols and higher-quality studies are needed to inform practice.

Anemia and associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities of Garowe City, Puntland, Somalia

Background Anemia is a prevalent global public health issue, especially among pregnant women in developing countries. Limited research exists on anemia in pregnant women in Somalia, particularly in Garowe City. This study aims to determine the prevalence of anemia and its associated factors among pregnant women attending antenatal care in public health facilities in Garowe City, Puntland, Somalia, from December 1, 2023, to January 1, 2024. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted with 422 randomly selected pregnant women in public health facilities. Data were collected using EpiData version 4.6 and analyzed with SPSS version 25. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression analyses identified factors associated with anemia, with statistical significance set at P < 0.05. Results The prevalence of anemia among pregnant women was 38.6% (95% CI: 33.9%, 43.6%). Significant associated factors included: rural residence (AOR = 2.58, 95% CI: 1.18–5.64), multigravidity (AOR = 2.01, 95% CI: 1.03–3.89), lack of nutritional counseling (AOR = 1.65, 95% CI: 1.09–2.52), positive malaria test (AOR = 3.58, 95% CI: 1.08–11.98), and not consuming one extra meal (AOR = 2.19, 95% CI: 1.15–4.19). Conclusions Anemia in pregnant women in Garowe City is a moderate public health concern according to WHO standards. Factors such as residence, gravidity, nutritional counseling, malaria status, and dietary habits significantly correlate with anemia. Public health measures should focus on enhancing nutritional counseling, promoting extra meal consumption, and preventing malaria during pregnancy.

Environmental radiation assessment in the specified living areas for returnees of Okuma Town, Fukushima prefecture: Field measurements prior to decontamination

To assess environmental radiation exposure in the Specified Living Areas for Returnees of Okuma Town, Fukushima Prefecture, external radiation doses were evaluated using ambient dose equivalent rate measurements performed at residential properties. In addition to surveys covering the entirety of the Specified Living Areas for Returnees, area-specific assessments were conducted to account for differences in the progress of decontamination and demolition among districts. The median ambient dose rate measured by car-borne surveys across all Specified Living Areas for Returnees of Okuma Town decreased significantly from 0.49 µSv/h in November 2024 to 0.34 µSv/h in September 2025 (p < 0.05). In measurements conducted at residential properties prior to decontamination and demolition, the median ambient dose equivalent rate measured at house entrances was 0.96 µSv/h. The results of this study demonstrated that the ambient dose equivalent rates on roads measured by car-borne surveys across all Specified Living Areas for Returnees of Okuma Town decreased over the study period. In contrast, the estimated annual external dose at residential properties satisfied the reference level of 20 mSv set by the Ministry of the Environment as a guideline for lifting evacuation orders in most areas, but did not reach the long-term post-accident target level of 1 mSv. These findings provide evidence to inform ongoing discussions on evacuation order policies and long-term radiation management strategies.

Resource-efficient data transmission for WiFi-capable bio-loggers based on machine learning

Bio-logging is a popular method for data collection in animal research, especially for hard-to-observe animals. Newer bio-logger generations utilise WiFi technology, enabling researchers to collect high-resolution data at the cost of higher energy expenditure of the devices. In this study, we elaborate on how state-of-the-art loggers can benefit from even the simplest methods to reduce transmission costs. We employ machine learning techniques, specifically small decision trees, to enable a bio-logger to recognise a chosen behaviour based on its sensor readings. Based on the recognised behaviour, the logger filters which data to transmit, reducing transmission time and, thus, the logger’s overall energy consumption. Using a controlled dataset, we exemplify the training and evaluation of such decision trees. Using those, we evaluate the reduction of energy consumption based on a state-of-the-art bio-logger, the WildFi tag. We demonstrate that for WiFi-enabled bio-loggers, decision trees are highly beneficial when used as a data filter. We illustrate that filtering with decision trees yields energy savings of 14.68% in realistic scenarios for transmitting data. We provide a full pipeline from data collection to deployable software to holistically elaborate on how to use off-the-shelf solutions to achieve practical gains for animal behaviour. Our results suggest that decision trees can be an effective tool for enabling bio-loggers to detect specific behaviours. Lastly, we emphasise that our approach highly benefits from the use of gyroscopes, a sensor type that mostly sees use for off-board instead of on-board labour. We contribute an investigation of energy consumption reduction of WiFi-enabled bio-loggers through the utilisation of controlled data transmission using machine learning. We offer a promising pathway for enhancing the longevity of such a state-of-the-art bio-logger, maintaining WiFi benefits. Ultimately, we support more efficient and, thus, more sustainable wildlife monitoring practices on the example of the WildFi tag.

Differences of dynamic responses of single-pile and pile-group foundations in Meizoseismal areas

In order to investigate the dynamic response variations between isolated pile and pile-group systems in high-seismicity regions, we performed extensive shaking table experiments. These tests examined the acceleration characteristics, displacement patterns, and bending moment distributions across single-pile, four-pile, and six-pile configurations when exposed to four different seismic waveforms at a design-level intensity of 0.35g. Additionally, the structural integrity and damage conditions of the pile foundations were systematically assessed. The experimental data revealed that the greatest displacement at the pile head and the highest bending moment values were specifically caused by Kobe wave excitation. Conversely, the El-Centro wave produced the highest acceleration amplifications. The six-pile foundation exhibited optimal resistance to displacement and bending moment, particularly under the 5010 wave, and the single-pile foundation consistently showed the least acceleration amplification. Post-test inspections, including white-noise scanning and visual checks, showed no evidence of significant macroscopic damage across all foundation types, indicating an essentially elastic response at this intensity level. Engineering suggestions for the seismic design of bridge pile foundations in strong earthquake areas are proposed.

Fertility desires and utilization of an integrated HIV care and family planning services among young women living with HIV in semi-rural Uganda: A cross sectional study

Background Little is known about the fertility desires among young women living with HIV (YWLHIV) in sub-Saharan African (SSA) settings and its association with their utilization of an integrated HIV care and family planning (FP) services. This study assessed the fertility desires and the utilization of an integrated HIV care and FP services among YWLHIV in Northern Uganda, where limited data exist to inform the integration of contraception, safer conception and prevention of mother to child (PMTCT) of HIV services. Methods In a cross-sectional study design, we collected data from YWLHIV attending antiretroviral therapy (ART) clinics in northern Uganda between November 2022 and April 2023. Using an interviewer-administered questionnaire, participants were asked about their fertility desires and the potential associated factors which included the socio-demographic, HIV, ART, sexual and reproductive health (SRH) and access to the community-based SRH resources. They were also asked whether they ever received FP services from the ART clinic facilities where they usually obtain their HIV care. Descriptive statistics for fertility desires and level of utilization of the integrated HIV and FP services were performed. More so, Chi-square test, Fisher’s Exact test, bivariate and multivariable Poisson regression analyses for the associations between the predictor variables and the fertility desires were performed. The 5% significance level and 95% confidence intervals were considered for the measures of fertility desires and the associations. Results We recruited 423 YWLHIV with a median age of 22 (IQR 20–24) years. The data revealed a high fertility desire (88.9%) among the YWLHIV. Single women exhibited 24% lower fertility desires than their married counterparts (p = 0.013). Women who did not know of the integrated FP services offered from the ART clinic facilities had 18% lower fertility desires than their counterparts who knew (p = 0.045). Conversely, women with a positive history of planned pregnancies showed 17% higher fertility desires than their counterparts with positive history of unintended pregnancies (p = 0.040). Similarly, current modern contraceptive users had 23% lower fertility desires than their counterparts who were non-current users (p = 0.003). The utilization of an integrated HIV care and FP services was significantly lower (30.1%) among the YWLHIV with fertility desires compared to 48.9% among those without fertility desires (X 2 5.991, df 1, p = 0.014). Conclusions The study found a high fertility desires but lower utilization of an integrated HIV care and FP services among the YWLHIV in a Ugandan setting. Whereas the factors responsible for the low utilization of an integrated HIV and FP services remains question for future research, being married, having knowledge and receiving modern contraceptive methods from the ART clinic facility, experiences of planned pregnancy and non-current use of modern contraceptives were associated with the higher odds of fertility desires among the YWLHIV. These findings highlight the need to address the low utilization of an integrated HIV care and FP services, marital expectations and modern contraceptive access within the HIV care for YWLHIV with fertility desires.

Integrated computational analysis identifies FABP4, PTGS2, and HPGD as Key molecular targets linking PET microplastic exposure to metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease

Background Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects 25–38% of the global population, yet the contribution of environmental polyethylene terephthalate (PET) microplastics to its pathogenesis remains unclear. PET microplastics accumulate in the liver at approximately 4.6 particles per gram of tissue and have been implicated in metabolic disturbance, oxidative stress, and inflammation, but their molecular targets and mechanisms in MASLD are not well defined. Methods We integrated three GEO microarray cohorts (GSE37031, GSE63067, GSE89632) and performed differential expression analysis, weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA), and PET target prediction using ChEMBL, PharmMapper, and SwissTargetPrediction. Functional enrichment, protein-protein interaction network analysis, CIBERSORT-based immune deconvolution, molecular docking, and 100 ns molecular dynamics simulations were employed to identify and validate hub genes. Results Integration of MASLD transcriptomes and PET target predictions yielded 19 overlapping genes enriched in pathways related to lipid metabolism, fatty acid degradation, glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, and chemical carcinogenesis. Network topology consistently highlighted FABP4, PTGS2, and HPGD as central hub genes. Immune deconvolution revealed MASLD-associated alterations characterized by increased M2 macrophages and γδ T cells, with decreased monocytes, dendritic cells, and naive B cells. PTGS2 and FABP4 expression showed strong correlations with innate immune cells. Molecular docking demonstrated favorable PET binding to all three proteins (–6.3 to –6.9 kcal/mol), and molecular dynamics simulations confirmed stable complexes over 100 ns, with predominantly hydrophobic interactions. Conclusions Through integrated bioinformatics analysis and molecular simulation, this study identifies FABP4, PTGS2, and HPGD as potential molecular targets through which PET microplastics may influence lipid metabolism, prostaglandin signaling, and innate immune responses in MASLD. Molecular docking and dynamics simulations suggest favorable binding interactions between PET and these proteins.

Long-term care hospitals as end-of-life care settings in South Korea: A nationwide analysis of utilization patterns and clinical trajectories

Objectives This study aimed to investigate the utilization patterns and end-of-life trajectories of older adults in Korean long-term care hospitals (LTCHs) using nationwide population-based data. Methods This retrospective observational study analyzed National Health Insurance Service claims data (2014–2023). We constructed three analytical groups: an annual inpatient group to examine longitudinal trends in volume and mortality; a newly admitted inpatient group to assess the sociodemographic profile at the time of LTCH entry; and a decedent group to reconstruct the clinical trajectory and cumulative resource use from initial admission to death. Results While the volume of older inpatients increased, the annual number of deaths involving LTCH use increased from 68,357 in 2014 to 112,157 in 2023 over the decade. Patients were newly admitted to LTCHs in their early 80s (median age 81 years, IQR 75–86) and were predominantly female (62.1%). In addition, Medical Aid beneficiaries (13.7%) and individuals with registered disabilities (28.0%) were overrepresented, indicating high sociodemographic vulnerability. Decedents spent a median of 79 days (IQR 22–299) as LTCH inpatients. While 30.1% stayed for <30 days, 22.2% remained hospitalized for ≥ 360 days, indicating substantial variation in length of stay. Overall, 68.5% of decedents died during LTCH stay. While admissions were driven by chronic geriatric syndromes, the end-of-life phase was dominated by a surge in acute infectious and systemic conditions (e.g., pneumonia, 10.2% to 22.3%; sepsis, 3.3% to 11.9%). Conclusions LTCHs in Korea have played an increasingly important role as a setting for end-of-life care, managing a distinct trajectory from chronic frailty to acute deterioration. Given that these institutions are functioning as end-of-life care settings, policy reforms should strengthen palliative care integration, advance care planning, workforce training, and end-of-life care capacity within LTCHs.