bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integrating polygenic risk scores and constructing a predictive model to assess the risk of knee osteoarthritis in Taiwanese population
Authors: Lim Kai-Xuan , Shieh Yun-Jer , Liao Hsiu-Jung , Hsiao Tzu-Hung , Huang Chi-Ying F. , Hsieh Yi-Ling , Chang Chih-Hung , Lee Cheng-Hung
Published: December 2024

Objective:
Knee osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent degenerative joint disease that can lead to severe limitations in daily activities and function. Genetic components contribute significantly to knee OA and it always coexists with other comorbid conditions. Our goal is to identify the most effective PGS panel that can be applied in the Taiwanese population. We also aim to develop a predictive model for the risk of knee OA by integrating the polygenic risk scores(PGS) and comorbidity information.
Method
We analyzed a total of 43,686 patients from the Taiwan Precision Medicine Initiative (TPMI) database and 1,363 cases of knee OA were identified. We validated which of the four published PGS panels was the most appropriate for predicting the risk of knee OA in the Taiwanese population. We then integrate the validated PGS panel and common comorbidities with knee OA to evaluate the predictive performance of the model.
Results
We found that PGS002767 showed the strongest association with our knee OA patients (OR: 1.59 at rank 5, OR: 1.46 at rank 4 compared to rank 1). GERD (OR:2.17), insomnia (OR:1.57), dyslipidemia (OR:1.49), and hypertension (OR:1.47) were retained in the final model. The AUC of our final model which included PGS002767, BMI and comorbidities was 0.72.
Conclusion:
To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to validate the applicability of PGS panels in knee OA patient of the Taiwanese population. We create a predictive model for knee OA allowing clinicians to quickly and cost-effectively screen patients at risk for developing knee OA.
The Importance of Panimmune Inflammation Value and Systemic Immuno-Inflammation Index in Patients with Acute Cerebrovascular Infarction
Authors: Kamiloğlu Muhammed , Karabulut Keziban Ucar , Karaca Meltem , Kısınma Alpaslan , Ucar Yildiz
Published: December 2024

Stroke is a condition that negatively affects the quality of life in all societies and is one of the leading causes of mortality in adults. It is the second most common cause of death and disability worldwide. Acute ischemic stroke leads to severe physical, social, psychological, and economic devastation. Early and accurate diagnosis of these patients in the emergency department is crucial for timely treatment. This study aimed to investigate the course of the pan-immune inflammation value (PIV), systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), and systemic inflammatory response index (SIRI), which are discussed as new inflammatory markers in patients diagnosed with acute stroke. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study compared inflammatory markers obtained from the complete blood count results of patients diagnosed with acute ischemic stroke in the emergency department between 01.01.2022 and 01.03.2024 with those of healthy individuals. Findings: In our study, 201 patients with acute ischemic stroke and 100 healthy individuals were compared. The results demonstrated that inflammatory markers, including the Pan-Immune Inflammation Value (PIV), Systemic Immune-Inflammation Index (SII), and Systemic Inflammatory Response Index (SIRI), were significantly higher in the stroke group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Specifically, neutrophil, CRP, PIV, SII, SIRI, and NLR values were elevated in the ischemic stroke group, while lymphocyte and hemoglobin levels were higher in the control group. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of PIV, SII, and SIRI as novel biomarkers for predicting inflammation and prognosis in acute ischemic stroke patients. These markers may serve as cost-effective and practical tools for early diagnosis and risk stratification in clinical settings. Further studies with dynamic evaluations are needed to explore the long-term prognostic value of these markers.
Postoperative complications following salvage neck dissection after (chemo)radiotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma: which patients are at high risk?
Authors: Navran Arash , Gouw Zeno A.R. , Klop Willem M. , Schreuder Willem H. , Donswijk Maarten L. , Owers Emilia , Boer Jan Paul , Smit Laura , Karssemakers Luc , Brekel Michiel , Al-Mamgani Abrahim
Published: December 2024

Background
Salvage neck dissection (ND) is the treatment of choice for residual neck disease after (chemo)radiotherapy for head-and-neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Although ND is a relatively safe surgical procedure, several studies have shown that salvage ND will increase the morbidity of (chemo)radiotherapy with possible increase in acute and late toxicity and deterioration of quality-of-life. Therefore, unnecessary salvage ND need to be avoided. However, the available literature could not identify potential groups at higher risk of post-operative complications because of the missing demographic information and the heterogeneity in studies and outcome data. We aim to report on the types, rates, and severity of postoperative complications and to identify groups of patients at high risk of these complications.
Methods
Of 908 patients with node-positive HNSCC primarily treated with (chemo)radiotherapy between 2008 and 2022, 130 (14%) underwent salvage ND. Endpoints of the study are the incidence of G ≥ 2 and G3 postoperative complications, identification of risk factors for these complications and the oncologic outcomes.
Results
Only 41% of patient who underwent salvage ND still had vital tumor in ND-specimen (pN+). No G4-5 complications were reported. The incidence of G3 and G ≥ 2(CTCAE.v5) postoperative complications were 18% and 52%, respectively. Events reported as G3 complications were wound infection/dehiscence (n = 9), fistula (n = 4), bleeding (n = 4), tracheotomy (n = 6), dysphagia (n = 4), severe pneumonia and septicemia (n = 2), and frozen shoulder (n = 1). Seven patients had more than one type of G3 complications. Logistic regression showed that extent of salvage ND, size of the largest node and HPV-negative disease were independent predictors for G ≥ 2 complications. Multivariable analysis showed that G ≥ 2 complications was not associated with worse OS while HPV-negative and N3-disease were independent predictors for worse survival.
Conclusions
Only 41% of patients who underwent salvage ND still had residual neck disease while 52% developed G ≥ 2 and 18% G3 complications. Although OS was not worse in these patients, accurate detection of residual neck disease is essential to spare considerable number of patients from unnecessary salvage ND with its possible complications. Patients with lymph nodes larger than 3 cm, HPV-negative disease and those treated by (modified)radical ND were at high risk of G ≥ 2 complications.
Altered Pattern of Proteolysis of Extracellular Proteins in Rhegmatogenous Retinal Detachment by Mining of Tryptic and N-Termini Datasets From Vitreous Humor Proteome
Authors: Sbardella Diego , Zingale Gabriele Antonio , Giammaria Sara , Pandino Irene , Placentino Luca , Ripandelli Guido , Tundo Grazia Raffaella , Grasso Giuseppe , Bocedi Alessio , Bell Peter , Rossi Tommaso
Published: December 2024

Retinal detachment is a severe eye condition characterized by the detachment of the neurosensory retina from the retinal pigment epithelium and caused by retinal tears. Pars plana vitrectomy is the elective surgical procedure during which vitreous humor is collected. This fluid shapes the eye globe providing mechanical and nutritional support to the retina. Hence, exploring the proteome of vitreous humor isolated from subjects diagnosed with retinal detachment is supposed to help decipher the pathobiology of the disease and that of its complications, such as proliferative vitreo-retinopathy, which predispose to recurrent RD (observed in 20% of cases), a sight threatening condition. Herein, we investigated the perturbations of vitreous proteome between subjects affected by primary retinal detachment and controls by shot-gun proteomics approaches. Spectra were first searched and analyzed to identify proteome perturbations. Thereafter, starting from the hypothesis that the disease could be sustained by altered proteolytic processing of structural and non-structural elements of vitreous humor, N- and C-termini were mined to uncover endogenous proteolytic events. This search retrieved evidence of a wide repertoire of proteolytic events and proteolytic sites, either already described for proteins commonly identified also in other biological samples, or likely specific of this fluid. Comparison between the N- and C-termini landscapes and the perturbations of global proteome highlighted robust alterations of the repertoire of cleaved proteins between retinal detachment and control subjects. Strengthened by immunoblotting studies on a selection of proteins, datasets envisage that retinal detachment is characterized by unbalanced proteolysis of structural and non-structural components involved in the regulation of immune processes, proteolytic control and, in particular, angiogenesis.
Genetic diversity and population structure of Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in South America
Authors: Pozebon Henrique , Ugalde Gustavo Andrade , Stürmer Glauber Renato , Smagghe Guy , Tay Wee Tek , Arnemann Jonas Andre
Published: December 2024

The corn leafhopper, Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) and its associated corn stunt disease are considered the main production drawback currently faced by maize growers across South America, especially in Brazil. Native to Mexico and historically restricted to tropical America, the species has recently expanded its occurrence range into temperate areas of the continent, raising the need for a deeper understanding of the genetic basis driving its population dynamics. In this study, we used the mitochondrial DNA cytochrome oxidase I partial gene (mtCOI) to characterize specimens of D. maidis collected in eight Brazilian sites and one Paraguayan site, and then combined our mtCOI data with previous sequences available from Argentina and Mexico to investigate genetic diversity and population structure in this important agricultural pest species. Our results revealed low genetic variability in D. maidis populations, with one potential ancestral haplotype predominating in Mexico and tropical South America (Dmai-COI-01), and a second, possible more recent one (Dmai-COI-02) standing out in temperate areas of the continent. This led to a moderate degree of population structuring, partially separating northern and southern Brazilian populations and strongly differentiating the Argentinian population from the others. The geographical range and frequency of haplotype Dmai-COI-02 suggest that its introduction might be one of the factors driving the recent expansion of D. maidis in southern Brazil, while the partial population structure detected indicates limited gene flow among macro-regions of Brazil and neighboring countries. Based on these findings, pest management programs should focus on suppressing winter survival and mid-range migration of D. maidis within a regional scale, thus reducing population pressure in maize crops.
Burden of Stroke and its Risk Factors in China from 1990 to 2021: an Analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) 2021
Authors: Yan Si-Yu , Liu Yi-Fan , Bao Xin-Jie , Wang Ren-Zhi , You Chao , Ma Lu , Tian Rui
Published: December 2024

Background
Stroke is the leading cause of mortality and disability in China. Comprehensive assessments of the stroke burden and the attributable risk factors remain insufficient. This study aimed to analyze the burden of strokes and stroke subtypes (ischemic stroke [IS], intracerebral hemorrhage [ICH], and subarachnoid hemorrhage [SAH]) in China during 1990 to 2021.
Methods
Extracting data from the Global Burden of Disease study (GBD) 2021, we analyzed the temporal trends of the estimated number and age-standardized rates (ASRs) of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of stroke in China from 1990 to 2021. We further assessed the stroke burden by age, gender, sociodemographic characteristics and attributable risk factors.
Results
In 2021, China bore an enormous burden of total stroke, with ASRs of incidence, prevalence, mortality, and DALYs at 204.8, 1301, 138.0, and 2648 per 100,000 persons, respectively, which were much higher than the global average and most G20 countries. From 1990 to 2021, there was a notable increase in the absolute number, with males consistently experiencing a higher burden than females. However, according to the decomposition analysis, after controlling for the effects of population growth and aging, hemorrhagic strokes manifested a substantial decrease across all measures, whereas the incidence of IS continued to rise in both genders. The predominant risk factors – high systolic blood pressure, particulate matter pollution, high low density lipoprotein cholesterol, high fasting plasma glucose, and diet high in sodium – remained relatively stable over 30 years. Additionally, smoking and alcohol consumption were more prevalent among men than women, representing the main gender difference in risk factors.
Conclusions
The incidence, prevalence, mortality and DALYs of strokes in China have consistently risen over the past three decades, particularly for IS, which mainly attributes to population aging. More efforts are needed in the future to alleviate the growing burden by preventing and controlling latent risk factors.
Short-Chain Polyphosphates Induce Tau Fibrillation and Neurotoxicity in Human iPSC-Derived Retinal Neurons
Authors: Baiocco Paola , Barolo Lorenzo , Mautone Lorenza , Gigante Ylenia , Ghirga Silvia , Mura Francesco , Farina Maria Vittoria , Tacconi Stefano , Dini Luciana , Ruocco Giancarlo , Boffi Alberto , Milanetti Edoardo , Angelantonio Silvia Di
Published: December 2024

The onset of Alzheimer’s Disease and Frontotemporal Dementia is closely associated with the aggregation of tau, a multifunctional protein essential for neuronal stability and function. Given the role of tau aggregation in neurodegeneration, understanding the mechanisms behind its fibrils formation is crucial for developing therapeutic interventions to halt or reverse disease progression. However, the structural complexity and diverse aggregation pathways of tau present significant challenges, requiring comprehensive experimental studies. In this research, we demonstrate that short-chain polyphosphates, specifically sodium tripolyphosphate (NaTPP), effectively induce tau fibril formation in vitro using the microtubule-binding domain fragment (K18). NaTPP-induced fibrils display unique structural characteristics and aggregation kinetics compared to those induced by heparin, indicating distinct pathogenic pathways. Through molecular dynamics simulations, we show that NaTPP promotes aggregation by exposing key residues necessary for fibril formation, which remain concealed under non-aggregating conditions. This interaction drives tau into an aggregation-prone state, revealing a novel mechanism. Furthermore, our study indicates that human pluripotent stem cell-derived retinal neurons internalize NaTPP-induced fibrils within 24 hours, pointing to a potential pathway for tau spread in neurodegeneration. To explore the translational implications of NaTPP-induced fibrils, we assessed their long-term effects on cellular viability, tubulin integrity, and stress responses in retinal neuron cultures. Compared to heparin, NaTPP promoted fewer but longer fibrils with initially low cytotoxicity but induced a stress response marked by increased endogenous tau and p62/SQSTM1 expression. Prolonged exposure to NaTPP-induced oligomers significantly increased cytotoxicity, leading to tubulin fragmentation, altered caspase activity, and elevated levels of phosphorylated pathological tau. These findings align with a neurodegenerative phenotype, highlighting the relevance of polyphosphates in tau pathology. Overall, this research enhances our understanding of the role of polyphosphate in tau aggregation, linking it to key cellular pathways in neurodegeneration.
Valorisation of an aromatic compound from a renewable natural resource: eugenol, by hemi-synthesis of new molecules for antimicrobial and anticorrosion applications
Authors: REBBAH BAHIJA , haib Abderrahim El , Lahmady Sara , Aallam Yassine , Kotmani Wissal , Hnini Rachid , Gouygou Maryse , Forsal Issam , Rakib ElMostapha , Hannioui Abdellah
Published: December 2024

Various semi-synthetic derivatives of eugenol have been reported in recent years with improved bioactivities and a broad mode of action. The main objective of this work is to develop new heterocyclic and acyclic molecules with potential biological and electrochemical activities from a readily available natural product, eugenol, known chemically as 4-allyl-2-methoxyphenol with the molecular formula C10H12O2. It belongs to a class of natural phenolic monoterpenoids. Here we describe the synthesis of eugenol derivatives and the evaluation of their biological and electrochemical activities. These new eugenol derivatives were synthesized and characterized by NMR and FTIR. Electrochemical methods, such as polarisation curves and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, were used to evaluate the corrosion inhibition properties of eugenol. Regarding corrosion inhibition properties, eugenol derivatives have shown that they can be used as organic corrosion inhibitors in aggressive environments to reduce the corrosion process of metals in industry. According to the results obtained in this work, several products tested showed significant efficacy against various pathogenic bacteria studied, particularly at concentrations of 100 µg/mL. Most of them synthesized showed a zone of inhibition greater than 11 mm.
High-Ammonia Microenvironment Promotes Stemness and Metastatic Potential in Hepatocellular Carcinoma Through Metabolic Reprogramming
Authors: Zou Renchao , Jiang Sicong , Mei Jiaqi , Chen Chen , Yu Jia , Fu Yanqiu , Chen Siyu
Published: December 2024

Background
Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a prevalent and aggressive form of liver cancer, characterized by frequent recurrence and metastasis, which remain significant obstacles to effective treatment. Ammonia accumulates in the tumor microenvironment of HCC due to dysfunction in the urea cycle, but the detailed impact of ammonia on HCC cells remains insufficiently understood.
Methods
We exposed HCC cell lines to high concentrations of ammonium chloride to evaluate alterations in proliferation, stemness, and migratory potential. After ammonia removal, changes in cellular behavior were assessed using colony formation, wound healing, and spheroid assays. Transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses were conducted to investigate ammonia-induced metabolic reprogramming and alterations in gene expression. Additionally, animal models were employed to validate the impact of ammonia on tumor growth and metastasis.
Results
Exposure to high-ammonia conditions transiently suppressed HCC cell proliferation without inducing apoptosis. However, following ammonia removal, cells demonstrated increased proliferation, enhanced spheroid formation, and elevated migratory capacity. Transcriptomic analysis revealed the upregulation of genes associated with cell adhesion, migration, and glycolysis. Concurrently, metabolomic profiling indicated increased lactate production, facilitating the aggressive behavior of HCC cells after ammonia withdrawal. Animal experiments confirmed that high-ammonia exposure accelerated tumor growth and metastasis.
Conclusion
Ammonia exerts a dual effect on HCC progression: it initially suppresses cell growth but later promotes stemness, proliferation, and metastasis through metabolic reprogramming. Targeting ammonia metabolism or glycolysis in the tumor microenvironment may represent a promising therapeutic strategy for mitigating HCC recurrence and metastasis. Future studies utilizing clinical samples are required to validate these findings and identify potential therapeutic strategies targeting ammonia metabolism.
Wearable Sensors and Artificial Intelligence for sleep apnea detection: A Systematic Review
Authors: Osa-Sanchez Ainhoa , Ramos-Martinez-de-Soria Javier , Mendez-Zorrilla Amaia , Ruiz Ibon Oleagordia , Garcia-Zapirain Begonya
Published: December 2024

Sleep apnea, a prevalent disorder affecting millions of people worldwide, has attracted increasing attention in recent years due to its significant impact on public health and quality of life. The integration of wearable devices and artificial intelligence technologies has revolutionized the treatment and diagnosis of sleep apnea. Leveraging the portability and sensors of wearable devices, coupled with AI algorithms, has enabled real-time monitoring and accurate analysis of sleep patterns, facilitating early detection and personalized interventions for people suffering from sleep apnea. This review of articles presents a systematic review of the current state of the art in identifying the latest artificial intelligence techniques, wearable devices, data types, and preprocessing methods employed in the diagnosis of sleep apnea. Four databases were used and the results before screening report 249 studies published between 2020 and 2024. After screening, 28 studies met the inclusion criteria. This review reveals a trend in recent years where methodologies involving patches, clocks and rings have been increasingly integrated with convolutional neural networks, producing promising results, particularly when combined with transfer learning techniques. We observed that the outcomes of various algorithms and their combinations also rely on the quantity and type of data utilized for training. The findings suggest that employing multiple combinations of different neural networks with convolutional layers contributes to the development of a more precise system for early diagnosis of sleep apnea.
The influence of orthokeratology on peripheral refraction during accommodation
Authors: Li Zhixing , Jin Xia , Gui Mengfang , Zhang Xiaojin , Guo Xiaohong , Pan Tonghe , Wang Ying
Published: December 2024

SIGNIFICANCE: The change in peripheral refraction from hyperopic to myopic defocus following orthokeratology (OK) has been recognized as a main factor in myopia control. However, the impact of OK lenses on peripheral refraction at nearpoints in myopic eyes has not yet been investigated.
PURPOSE: This study aims to investigate changes in peripheral refraction during accommodation in myopic adults after orthokeratology (OK) wear.
METHODS:Twenty-four selected myopic adults (mean spherical equivalent: -2.70±1.04 D) participated in this study. Peripheral refractions were measured by an auto-refractor with targets located at 25cm and 50cm from the eye. Measurements were performed across ±30º of the horizontal field in 5º steps from the visual axis of subject’s right eye before and after wearing the OK lens. The statistical package SPSS was used to analyze the data to determine the relationship between peripheral refractions and accommodation.
RESULTS: After wearing the OK lens, the peripheral refraction became more myopic with increasing eccentricity during accommodation (t>2.80, p< 0.01, N30º, N25º, N20º, T15º, T20º, T25º and T30º, for 25cm and 50cm). While relative hyperopic reflective errors were observed in the central (accommodative lag) and near peripheral (=<15 º) retinal fields (t<-2.5, p<0.02, for 0º, N5º, N10º, N15º and T10º for 25cm and 50cm), relative myopic refractive errors were evident in the farther periphery (>15 º). (for 25cm, -0.45±1.18, -0.71±1.47, -1.00±1.31 and -1.70±2.16D, for N30º, T20º, T25º, and T30º; for 50cm, -0.76±1.28, -0.84±1.05; -1.17±1.30 and -2.15±1.81D, for N30º, T20º, T25º, and T30º; t>2.5, P<0.02)
CONCLUSION: The myopic shift of peripheral refraction from the OK lens was partly counteracted by an insufficient change in refractive power of the eye during accommodation. Even though the refractive errors become relative hyperopic in the central and near peripheral retinal ﬁelds, relative myopic refraction was still maintained in the farther periphery for the accommodated myopic eyes treated with OK lenses.
Investigating the Role of Necroptosis in the Immunological Microenvironment of Periodontitis
Authors: Chen Yuanwei , Wang Tairan , Zheng Zhanglong , Ai Zexin , Jiang Jirui , Li Shengjiao
Published: December 2024

Background Extensive research has delved into the nexus between necroptosis and immunity, yet its impact on the immunological microenvironment of periodontitis remains elusive. Therefore, our study aims to elucidate the role of necroptosis in shaping this particular microenvironment.
Results We examined the differential expression of necroptosis genes in healthy and periodontitis samples, analyzing their correlations with infiltrating immunocytes, immune responses, and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA) gene. Distinct necroptosis-mediated expression patterns were identified, along with genes associated with the necroptosis phenotype. Notably, 37 necroptosis genes were dysregulated, leading to the development of a seven-necroptosis classifier that accurately distinguished periodontitis from healthy samples. Our findings reveal a profound association between necroptosis and the immunological microenvironment, evidenced by the positive correlation between ZBP1 and MLKL expression with plasma cells, the negative correlation between TNFRSF1B and ZBP1 with resting dendritic cells, and the modulation of BCR signaling and TGF family receptor activity by ZBP1 and MLKL. Furthermore, we uncovered a positive correlation between ZBP1 and HLA-C expression and a negative correlation between HSPA4 and HLA-A expression. Our analysis identified two distinct necroptosis expression patterns, each characterized by unique immune features. Among the 5272 genes associated with the necroptosis phenotype, 339 genes were linked to immunity, their biological functions centering on immunocyte regulation.
Conclusion This study underscores the significant role of necroptosis in shaping the immunological microenvironment of periodontitis, offering novel insights into the pathogenesis of this condition and paving the way for potential therapeutic strategies for periodontitis and its systemic comorbidities.
Explaining the higher nonresponse rates of immigrant populations: Insights from an analysis of panel attrition
Authors: Kalmijn Matthijs
Published: December 2024

Many studies have documented lower response rates of first- and second-generation immigrants in surveys. Several theories have been suggested to explain these differences, focusing on socioeconomic differences, differences in residence, and problems with cultural and social integration. Such explanations have been challenging to test, given the lack of information on sample subjects beforehand. In the current contribution, these explanations are tested by analyzing panel attrition. Using two-wave national panel data with a register- based oversample of immigrants in the Netherlands and regression decomposition methods, evidence was found for each of the three explanations. Attrition of immigrants is higher because of differences in how and where immigrants live and because immigrants have a lower socioeconomic status on average than natives. There is some evidence that attrition is increased by lower levels of cultural and social integration, but migrant-specific explanations were less influential than the more ‘generic’ explanations. Biases in descriptive evidence for key integration indicators existed due to selective attrition but were small in magnitude, lessening concerns about underestimations of immigrant integration in survey research.
Derivation of seismic fragility curves through mechanical-analytical approaches: the case study of the URM school buildings in Friuli-Venezia Giulia region (Italy)
Authors: Giusto Sofia , Boem Ingrid , Alfano Sara , Gattesco Natalino , Cattari Serena
Published: December 2024

Seismic events worldwide have shown that school buildings can exhibit vulnerability levels even higher than ordinary buildings. This highlights the urgent need for reliable risk analyses to guide decision-making in the implementation of large-scale mitigation policies. Developing seismic fragility curves that accurately reflect their typological and structural features is essential to achieve this. In this context, the paper compares two different mechanical-analytical methods, namely the “DBV-Masonry” and “Firstep-M_PRO”, which have been independently developed at the University of Genoa and at the University of Trieste, respectively. Among various possible methods, the mechanical-analytical approach is chosen for its computational efficiency in assessing large portfolios and its flexibility in capturing the features of specific buildings, such as schools (i.e. significant inter-story height and spacing between internal transversal walls). Both methods are applied to the same sample consisting of 101 unreinforced masonry (URM) schools located in the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region (Italy). One of key-goals of the paper is to provide a very comprehensive comparison of the similarities and differences between two methods for deriving seismic fragility curves which refer only to the global in-plane response. The impact of such an epistemic model uncertainty, together with the inter-building variability, is thus quantified and fragility curves are also validated against results from previous studies.
Inhibition of Zbp1- PANoptosome-mediated PANoptosis effectively attenuates acute pancreatitis
Authors: Li Jie , Jia Yu-chen , Zhang Haoyu , Wang Zheng , Xie Xiaozhou , Cao Feng , Li Fei
Published: December 2024

Early acute pancreatitis is an acute inflammatory disease that involves multiple modes of cell death, including apoptosis, necrotic apoptosis, and pyroptosis in its disease process. PANoptosis, a type of cell death that includes pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis, has had an important role in a variety of infectious and inflammatory diseases in recent years. To judge the relationship between PANoptosis and AP, we first analyzed the data from pancreatic transcriptome data by bioinformatics techniques, and we found the enrichment of PANoptosis pathway in AP. Next, we screened the genes and identified differentially expressed genes (DEGs) associated with AP and PANoptosis. Finally, we found that Zbp1 may have a major role in the process of PANoptosis. For this purpose, we constructed AP models in mice and in vitro cell line 266-6 and intervened by inhibiting Zbp1. The final results showed that the PANoptosis in mice was significantly suppressed after inhibition of Zbp1. In conclusion, inflammatory injury in AP can be significantly improved by inhibiting Zbp1- PANoptosome-mediated PANoptosis.
Impact of Maternal Stress and COVID-19 Exposure During Pregnancy on Offspring Neurodevelopment: Signature Cohort 12 Month Follow-Up
Authors: Garrido-Torres Nathalia , Román-Jarrín Andrés , Rider Julia , Alemany-Navarro María , Gibson Blake A. , de-Felipe Bea , Pérez-Gómez Alberto , Cerrillos Lucas , Duque-Sánchez Cristina , Alameda Luis , Ruiz-Mateos Ezequiel , Ruiz-Veguilla Miguel , Crespo-Facorro Benedicto
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic brought unprecedented global challenges. Amid the crisis, the potential impact of COVID-19 exposure on the neurodevelopment of offspring born to infected mothers emerged as a critical concern. This is a prospective cohort study of offspring exposed to mild or severe COVID-19 during pregnancy. Pregnant women who acquired SARS-CoV-2 were enrolled in the SIGNATURE project at Hospital Universitario Virgen del Rocio in Seville, Spain, between 01/01/2021 and 08/31/2022. Maternal stress was assessed through the Perceived Stress Scale; offspring neurodevelopment was screened through Ages & Stages Questionnaire, 3rd Edition (ASQ-3) at 6 months and 12 months. Association between COVID-19 severity and neurodevelopmental outcomes were analyzed with univariate and multivariate analysis. The cohort included 689 women categorized into three distinct groups based on COVID-19 severity: non-infected mothers (N = 277), mothers with mild COVID-19 (N = 358), and mothers with severe COVID-19 (N = 54). In utero exposure to severe COVID-19 infection nearly tripled the risk of developmental concern in the ASQ-3 personal-social subdomain at 12 months follow-up [OR = 2.751 (95% CI 1.065–7.106), p = 0.037], independently of the timing of the infection and maternal stress. While this study did not yield statistically significant results, it highlights the need to further investigate the potential association between COVID-19 during pregnancy and offspring neurodevelopment to understand the potential long-term consequences of prenatal COVID-19 exposure.
From mesh to neural nets: A multi-method evaluation of physics informed neural network and galerkin finite element method for solving nonlinear convection-reaction-diffusion equations
Authors: Hasan Fardous , Ali Hazrat , Arief Hasan Asyari
Published: December 2024

Non-linear convection-reaction-diffusion (CRD) partial differential equations (PDEs) are crucial for modeling complex phenomena in fields such as biology, ecology, population dynamics, physics, and engineering. Numerical approximation of these non-linear systems is essential due to the challenges of obtaining exact solutions. Traditionally, the Galerkin finite element method (GFEM) has been the standard computational tool for solving these PDEs. With the advancements in machine learning, Physics-Informed Neural Network (PINN) has emerged as a promising alternative for approximating non-linear PDEs.In this study, we compare the performance of PINN and GFEM by solving four distinct one-dimensional CRD problems with varying initial and boundary conditions and evaluate the performance of PINN over GFEM. This evaluation metrics includes error estimates, and visual representations of the solutions, supported by statistical methods such as the root mean squared error (RMSE), the standard deviation of error, the the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test and the coefficient of variation (CV) test.Our findings reveal that while both methods achieve solutions close to the analytical results, PINN demonstrate superior accuracy and efficiency. PINN achieved significantly lower RMSE values and smaller standard deviations for Burgers' equation, Fisher's equation, and Newell-Whitehead-Segel equation, indicating higher accuracy and greater consistency. While GFEM shows slightly better accuracy for the Burgers-Huxley equation, its performance was less consistent over time. In contrast, PINN exhibit more reliable and robust performance, highlighting their potential as a cutting-edge approach for solving non-linear PDEs.
DNA Barcoding for Taxonomic Resolution in Lamiaceae: Evaluating rbcL, matK, and trnH-psbA Markers for Species Identification
Authors: Hafez Amr , Elwahy Ahmed , Radwan Khaled , Fouad Nourhan , Mahdy Ehab , Fouad Ahmed
Published: December 2024

Lamiaceae family presents an example of the taxonomic complexities that challenge traditional identification methods. This study aimed to assay the effectiveness of three DNA barcoding markers (rbcL, matK, and trnH-psbA) for species identification within the genera Thymus, Mentha, and Salvia collected from various Egyptian locations. Results obtained indicated that rbcL showed a 100% amplification and sequencing efficiency across all genera nevertheless, it showed limited species resolution, with a genetic distance between Thymus and Mentha that reached 0.0154. On the other hand, matK and trnH-psbA showed superior species discrimination but lower amplification efficiency, especially for Salvia where it recorded a low of 12.5%. Interestingly, trnH-psbA marker showed the highest interspecific variability with 172 parsimony informative sites. Phylogenetic analysis using Neighbor-Joining trees supported distinct clades for each genus, with matK and trnH-psbA markers providing better resolution. Our study showed that matK and trnH-psbA are more effective for discriminating closely related species of Lamiaceae family. The incorporation of these markers increases the accuracy of taxonomic identification, and their application promotes conservation and ensures quality supply of Lamiaceae species of medicinal and commercial importance. The current study emphasizes the need for multi-locus DNA barcoding for biodiversity studies and its application in conservation of genetic resources as key aspects of Egypt's diverse flora.
Numerical simulation of the folding and deployment of a polymer reflector
Authors: Géradin Michel , Preumont André , Nielsen Carl Johan
Published: December 2024

The paper describes the methodology developed to simulate the stowing and deployment phases of a flexible reflector to be deployed from a micro-satellite (CubeSat). The reflector structure is modelled as a nonlinear shell with viscoelastic material properties. Its stowing process is described as a quasi-static equilibrium problem under inequality constraints. The constitutive law of the shell model results from a specialization of the 3-D Maxwell viscoelastic law to shell structural behavior. A simple test consisting of a viscoelastic plate under constrained displacement aims at validating the multi-branch Maxwell model implemented in the shell element. A first simulation of a reflector petal with elastic properties is performed to verify the aptitude of the methodology to simulate the folding phase and predict the resulting stresses in stowed configuration. The second numerical simulation of the same reflector petal aims at predicting its viscoelastic deformation over a time period including all phases of the deployment, in order to determine the residual shape aberrations in the deployed configuration.
Investigating the Co-loading of Doxorubicin and Melittin on Polyethylene Glycol at Different Molar Ratios Using Molecular Dynamics Simulation
Authors: Minaeian Maryam , Miraskarshahi Fatemeh Sadat , Kordzadeh Azadeh
Published: December 2024

The co-loading of melittin (MLT) and doxorubicin (DOX) on polyethylene glycol (PEG) at different molar ratios was investigated with molecular dynamics (MD) simulation. The interaction potential between drug molecules and PEG was evaluated with Lennard-Jones (LJ) and electrostatic potentials. Also, the conformational change was calculated to assess. The results indicated that the 1:2 (DOX: MLT) molar ratio has a strong binding energy with PEG, and also, at this molar ratio, the secondary structure of MLT is the same as that of the water medium. At a molar ratio of (2:1) (DOX: MLT), the secondary structure of the MLT and, as a result, its properties have changed, so this ratio is not suitable for co-loading of DOX and MLT on PEG. The obtained results at the molecular level are suitable for designing drug carriers based on drugs and polymers.
Fasudil alleviates lipopolysaccharides-triggered damage to BEAS-2B cells and human lung organoids by inducing CLDN4 expression
Authors: Jiang Chenghang , Xu Liming , Wang Tianpeng , Zhou Shengang , Li Gaoxiang , Zheng Yueliang
Published: December 2024

Fasudil, a well-known selective ROCK inhibitor, is commonly used to treat cerebral vasospasm. Recent research suggests that Fasudil may also have therapeutic potential for lung conditions such as pulmonary hypertension and acute lung injury (ALI). However, the specific mechanisms by which Fasudil protects lung tissues, especially lung epithelial cells, remain unclear. In this study, we examined the impact of Fasudil on the viability, apoptosis, and reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels in human lung epithelial cell line BEAS-2B and human lung organoids (HLOs) exposed to lipopolysaccharides (LPS). Our results show that Fasudil significantly enhances cell viability, reduces apoptosis, and decreases ROS levels in BEAS-2B cells and HLOs induced by LPS. At the molecular level, Fasudil increases the expression of CLDN4 in these cells and organoids, and the protective effects of Fasudil against LPS-induced damage are diminished in the absence of CLDN4. These findings identify CLDN4 as a key mediator of Fasudil’s protective effects on lung epithelial cells and organoids. Our study improves the understanding of Fasudil’s therapeutic mechanisms and highlights the potential for using Fasudil and/or targeting CLDN4 in the treatment of lung conditions like ALI.
Evaluation of the Antiviral Potentials Of Selected Compounds of Nigella sativa, Zingiber officinale and Allium sativum Against SARS-COV-2 Viral Main Protease
Authors: Igwe Onyekachi Fidelis , Alo Moses N. , Chukwu Chukwuma Joseph , Obenyi Hyacinth O , Cassandra Aniokete Ugonna , Ajah Monique Iheoma , Ajah Leonard Ogbonna
Published: December 2024

Background:
This study investigates the antiviral potential of compounds derived from Nigella sativa (black seed), Zingiber officinale (ginger), and Allium sativum (garlic) against the SARS-CoV-2 main protease, an essential enzyme for viral replication.
Objective:
To perform molecular docking analysis of selected natural compounds and evaluate their binding affinities compared to the known antiviral agent chloroquine.
Methods:
Nine ligands were docked with the SARS-CoV-2 main protease using AutoDock and Python Molecular Viewer. The ligands included:
Nigella sativa: Dithymoquinone, Thymoquinone, Thymol, Thymohydroquinone
Zingiber officinale: Gingerenone A, 6-Gingerol
Allium sativum: Allicin, Diallyl-disulfide
Binding energies, inhibition constants, and protein-ligand interactions were analyzed.
Results:
Dithymoquinone exhibited the highest binding energy of 7.39 kcal/mol and the lowest inhibition constant of 3.84 μM, significantly outperforming chloroquine, which had a binding energy of 5.33 kcal/mol and an inhibition constant of 124.62 μM. Key interactions were noted at Serine 158.
Conclusion:
Dithymoquinone demonstrates superior potential as an antiviral agent against SARS-CoV-2, highlighting the efficacy of natural compounds in antiviral strategies. This analysis provides valuable insights into the development of natural antiviral therapeutics.
Paus-Hasebrink, Ingrid/Bichler, Michelle (2008). Mediensozialisationsforschung. Theoretische Fundierung und Fallbeispiel sozial benachteiligter Kinder. Innsbruck: Studienverlag. 394 S., 34,90 €.
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Timo wäre gerne ein Pokémon, Gregor macht bei SpongeBob so schnell keiner etwas vor und Olivia wäre manchmal gerne wirklich eine Bewohnerin von Lazy Town – es sind gerade die Fallbeispiele, die die umfassende Publikation der Autorinnen so eindringlich machen. Ziel der Studie ist die Beschreibung der mit dem sozialen Wandel einhergehenden sozialisatorischen Bedingungen speziell für Kinder in sozial schwächeren bzw. anregungsärmeren Milieus sowie das Aufzeigen der Bedeutung dieser Bedingungen für den Prozess der Sozialisation. In welchem Verhältnis stehen die Medien zu anderen Sozialisationsagenten wie etwa der Familie und welche Relevanz haben Medien bei der Identitätskonstruktion, dem Aufbau von Wissen und der Wertevermittlung? Logisch aufgebaut wird zuerst das theoretische Fundament gelegt, wobei besonders gesellschaftliche Veränderungsaspekte und Kindheit im Kontext von Gesellschaft, Medien und Familie beachtet werden.
Das Augenmerk liegt dabei auf zentralen Modernisierungsphänomenen als Motor sozialer und medialer Wandlungsprozesse. Im zweiten Teil der Veröffentlichung stellen die Autorinnen den aktuellen Stand der Forschung zur Rolle der Medien im Alltag von Kindern mit Blick auf sozial benachteiligte Milieus vor und diskutieren die Ergebnisse. Insgesamt ist festzustellen, dass die Forschung diesem Bereich bis jetzt nur geringe Aufmerksamkeit geschenkt hat. Den Hauptteil des Werkes macht schließlich die qualitative Panelstudie zum Umgang sozial benachteiligter Kinder mit Medien aus, die in 20 Familien aus sozial schwächeren Milieus über drei Jahre hinweg durchgeführt wurde. Von der Zielsetzung, den methodischen Grundlagen der Untersuchung bis hin zu einer Analyse der Sozialisationsphasen und der Rolle der Sozialisationsagenten wird nahezu jeder Schritt der Studie deutlich.
Neun Fallbeispiele geben schließlich einen guten Einblick in die praktische Vorgehensweise und nicht zuletzt in die Familien und das Leben der Kinder selbst. Die Autorinnen haben ein Werk vorgelegt, das kaum etwas zu wünschen übrig lässt. Die theoretischen Grundlagen sind fundiert und umfassend dargelegt, ohne sich aber in extremer Detailliebe zu verlieren. Für Medienwissenschaftlerinnen und -wissenschaftler, Medienpädagoginnen und -pädagogen sowie Studierende bietet die Publikation eine enorme Menge an Information, die dank des angenehmen Schreibstils der Autorinnen auch gut lesbar ist. Zudem zeigt nicht zuletzt der Blick der Autorinnen in die vorhandenen Forschungsergebnisse, dass es an der Zeit war, diese Richtung einzuschlagen.
Nicht Subtext, sondern Hauptdarsteller
Authors: Bullerjahn Claudia
Published: December 2024

In der Medienwirkungsforschung spielt Musik trotz ihrer Allgegenwart in den Medien bislang eine untergeordnete Rolle. Im Alltagsdiskurs überwiegt die Sorge um negative Effekte, wie sie etwa durch die journalistische Berichterstattung im Nachgang von jugendlichen Selbstmorden und Amokläufen geschürt werden. Es sollen im Gegensatz hierzu die Chancen akzentuiert werden, die sich für Jugendliche aus der Beschäftigung mit Musik in neuen und neuesten Medien ergeben.
Dittler, Ullrich/Hoyer, Michael (Hrsg.) (2010). Zwischen Kompetenzerwerb und Mediensucht. Chancen und Gefahren des Aufwachsens in digitalen Erlebniswelten aus medienpsychologischer und medienpädagogischer Sicht. München: kopaed. 348 Seiten, 18,80 €
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Ein Leben ohne Medien? Unvorstellbar. Vor allem die digitalen Medien sind heutzutage auf dem Vormarsch und durchdringen unseren Alltag zusehends – gerade das Leben der nachkommenden Generationen ist in weiten Teilen durch digitale Erlebniswelten geprägt. Diese Entwicklung stellt Eltern, Lehrende und Pädagoginnen und Pädagogen vor neue Herausforderungen. Was bedeutet die zunehmende mediale Durchdringung des Alltags für die Entwicklung der Kinder, wie kann man sie darauf vorbereiten und sie lehren, die Möglichkeiten der Medienvielfalt zu nutzen?
Die Publikation Zwischen Kompetenzerwerb und Mediensucht, die anlässlich des 3. MedienkongressesVillingen-Schwennigen erschienen ist, versucht auf diese Fragen Antworten zu finden. Dazu haben die Herausgeber Ullrich Dittler und Michael Hoyer Autorinnen und Autoren gewinnen können, die in 19 aufschlussreichen Beiträgen das Thema aus verschiedenen Blickwinkeln betrachten – mal deskriptiv mit Blick auf die Nutzung interaktiver Medien durch Heranwachsende, mal mit dem Fokus auf die medienpädagogische oder medienpsychologische Sichtweise der Entwicklungen. Die Aufsätze, die das Themengebiet umfassend beleuchten, beginnend bei der Bedeutungder Medien für die Biographien über den Erwerb von Handlungskompetenzen in virtuellen Welten, Computerspielen als Erlebnis und deren Wirkung bis hin zu Computerspielsucht und Handynutzung, verschaffen einen guten Überblick über die verschiedenen Aspekte des Aufwachsens in der neuen Medienwelt und sind daher für Eltern wie für in der Kinder- und Jugendarbeit Tätige ein Gewinn.
Kreativ im Klassenzimmer
Authors: Schäfer Christoph
Published: December 2024

Leseförderung in ein umfassendes Konzept von Kreativitätserziehung einzubinden und dabei nicht zuletzt auch den Umgang mit neuen Medien zu schulen: Das ist das Ziel des Geschichten-Erfinder-Bastel-Wettbewerbs. Die Abenteuer von Tesalino und Tesalina der Stiftung Lesen und der tesa SE, der seit 1999 jährlich alle Grund- und Förderschulklassen zum Mitmachen einlädt. Welche Erfahrungen machen Lehrkräfte mit dem Wettbewerb und wie kann er zur Stärkung der Themen „Kreativitätsförderung“ sowie „Medienerziehung“ im Schulalltag beitragen?