bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current approaches to the diagnosis and management of Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome in newborns
Authors:   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khokhlova A.P. , Mushcherova D.M. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Sarkisyan H.A. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Vorona L.D. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation,   V.F.Voyno-Yasenetsky Scientific and Practical Center of Specialized Medical Care for Children, Moscow, Russian Federation, Levchenko L.A. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Cherkasova S.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Ilyushkina A.S. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Nifatova E.S. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shumilov P.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome (OMIM 130650, Q87.3) is a congenital anomaly characterized by overgrowth. It has a wide range of clinical manifestations, but the three main features include macrosomia, macroglossia, and anterior abdominal wall defect. The prevalence of the disease is 1 in 13,700 newborns worldwide, equally represented in males and females. Epigenetic and genetic changes on chromosome 11p15.5 are etiological factors: loss of maternal methylation at IC2 (KCNQ1OT1), paternal uniparental disomy, mutation in the CDKN1C gene, maternal hypermethylation at IC1 (H19), cytogenetically visible
duplication of chromosome 11p15, and translocation/inversion of chromosome 11p15. Genetic heterogeneity and the possibility of cellular mosaicism in this syndrome cause phenotypic differences between patients, as well as the complexity of molecular genetic confirmation. An important aspect in the management of patients with Beckwith-Wiedemann syndrome is timely detection and correction of hypoglycemia as a predictor of neurological deficit, as well as long-term monitoring for early detection of malignant neoplasms, including Wilms tumor. Treatment is currently symptomatic, including therapeutic and surgical management, but potential approaches to targeted therapy are being explored. Timely diagnosis of the disease improves longterm outcomes and quality of life of children with this pathology. This article presents current approaches to the diagnosis and management of Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome in newborns.
Key words: genomic imprinting disorders, hypoglycemia, anterior abdominal wall defect, macroglossia, macrosomia, Wilms tumor, Beckwith–Wiedemann syndrome
Isocaloric polymeric formula as nutritional support in children with cystic fibrosis in real clinical practice
Authors:   Yu.F.Goryachev Ulyanovsk Regional Children’s Clinical Hospital, Ulyanovsk, Russian Federation, Ovsyannikova E.A. , Sergienko D.F. ,   Astrakhan State Medical University, Astrakhan, Russian Federation, Karpova O.A. ,   Children’s Republican Clinical Hospital, Kazan, Russian Federation, Yagodkin M.V. ,   Abbott Laboratories LLC, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Objective. To evaluate the tolerability, efficacy, acceptance of organoleptic properties of the specialized therapeutic product, and satisfaction with its use in children with cystic fibrosis and their parents in real clinical practice.
Patients and methods. This prospective follow-up study included 14 children with cystic fibrosis (10 boys and 4 girls), mean age was 9.75 years (1.4–16.8 years). The study was conducted as part of routine clinical practice at Cystic Fibrosis Centers in Astrakhan, Kazan, and Ulyanovsk. Nutritional support was provided with an isocaloric polymeric powder formula with chocolate, strawberry, and vanilla flavors; children received an average of 1.7 servings (median 2, 1–3). At the time of inclusion in the study and after an average of 16 days (median 14, 14–21) of follow-up, body weight, height, and mid-upper arm circumference (MUAC) were assessed, and body mass index (BMI), height-for-age, BMI-for-age, and MUAC-for-age Z-scores (SDS) were calculated. In addition, some laboratory parameters (hemoglobin levels, red blood cell count, white blood cell count, ESR, total protein, albumin, and C-reactive protein levels), gastrointestinal symptoms, appetite scores at baseline and at the end of followup, and satisfaction of parents and children with the product at the end of follow-up were assessed. Prior to inclusion in the study, children were able to select the flavor of the product they would then receive by taste test. The number of servings and the need to initiate or adjust enzyme replacement therapy was determined by the physician.
Results. Excellent tolerability of the product was recorded, with no adverse events, steatorrhea, and allergic reactions. Body weight (p = 0.0002), BMI (p = 0.0005), and BMI Z-score (p = 0.0005) increased statistically significantly. Children highly appreciated the taste qualities of the product. The analysis of product intake diaries confirmed 100% adherence of children to the prescribed diet therapy. A total of 85% of parents and children noted that they liked or liked very much the specialized therapeutic food product and would like to continue its use.
Conclusion. This study confirmed the efficacy and excellent tolerability of the specialized therapeutic food product as nutritional support in children with cystic fibrosis.
Key words: cystic fibrosis, children, adolescents, diet therapy, specialized therapeutic food products, taste test
Body mass index, waist circumference and waist-to-height ratio – the most commonly applied adiposity indicators in relation to the lifestyle of European adolescents
Authors:   Trakia University, Stara Zagora, Bulgaria, Alekova S.
Published: February 2025

Body weight status of adolescents depends on their dietary patterns, physical activity and sleep duration, which are crucial elements of lifestyle. Regional social conditions and modern global processes such as digitalization and westernization with their negative dimensions on the daily routine of teenagers are leading triggers for the epidemic proportions of pediatric overweight and obesity.
Objective. To perform a systematic review on the role of anthropometric adiposity indices used to determine the prevalence of overweight and obesity as a result of unhealthy lifestyles in teenagers influenced by the “Western models”.
Materials and methods. A systematic review was conducted on the application of anthropometric adiposity metrics in relation to the lifestyle of teenagers by using the online databases Web of Science, ScienceDirect, Scopus, ResearchGate, and PubMed. Only available original articles published in English language between January 2014 and December 2023 were included in the study. The unoriginal and unrepresentative surveys, conference abstracts and unavailable full texts were removed.
Results. Body mass index (BMI), waist circumference (WC) and waist-to-height ratio (WHtR) are the most frequent, undirect and easy applicable anthropometric measures to identify overweight and obesity associated with unhealthy behavior and sedentary lifestyle among teenagers. However, BMI cannot distinguish between fat mass and fat-free mass, it is a leader among adiposity indices used in the research. The data on adolescents’ unhealthy behavior in all examined and included studies were based on information from self-reported anonymous questionnaires combined with mentioned anthropometric measurements.
Conclusion. The surrounding social environment together with the observed deviation to “Western patterns” of existence play a key role in the daily routine and well-being of adolescents. Their noticeable negative effect on health and body weight status of teenagers is easily detectable through the application of anthropometric indices such as BMI, WC and WHtR. These anthropometric measures are one of the simple, quickly applicable and reliable indicators in determining the frequency of juvenile overweight and obesity caused by unhealthy lifestyle.
Key words: anthropometric indices, lifestyle, adolescents, overweight and obesity
Cigarette and E-Cigarette Use Among LGBT+ Youths and Young Adults According to Strength of State-Level LGBT+ Equality Protections
Authors: Kierstead Elexis C. , Yoon Stephanie N. , Iskra Madison L. , Schillo Barbara A. , Kreslake Jennifer M.
Published: February 2025

Objectives. To examine whether the state-level LGBT+ (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and other identities) legal protections where LGBT+ youths and young adults reside are associated with cigarette and e-cigarette use.

Methods. We drew LGBT+ respondents (aged 15–31 years; n = 1255) from a national, probability-based survey conducted from August to December 2023. We scored each state for LGBT+ equality on a scale from restrictive to protective based on the Movement Advancement Project’s 2023 policy environment. Using weighted logistic regression models, we examined the relationship between current (past 30-day) cigarette and e-cigarette use and state LGBT+ equality protections, controlling for demographics and state tobacco control expenditure.

Results. LGBT+ individuals in protective policy states had 65% lower odds (odds ratio [OR] = 0.35; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.16, 0.78) of current cigarette use, and 56% lower odds (OR = 0.44; 95% CI = 0.25, 0.79) of current e-cigarette use compared with those in restrictive policy states.

Conclusions. LGBT+ individuals living in protective policy environments had lower odds of current cigarette and e-cigarette use, consistent with theoretical relationships between stress, discrimination, and harmful health behaviors.

Public Health Implications. Protective policies may alleviate tobacco use disparities among the LGBT+ community. ( Am J Public Health. Published online ahead of print February 27, 2025:e1–e9. https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2025.308008 )
Staged Correction of Hip Contractures, Severe Knee Flexion, and Clubfoot in Arthrogryposis: Enabling Assisted Ambulation
Authors: Galán-Olleros María , García-Fernández Jaime , Figueroa-Gatica María Jesús , Martínez-González Carmen , García-García Sara , Alfonso-Bravo Carlos , Martínez-Caballero Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Case report:

A 10-year-old boy with arthrogryposis multiplex congenita (AMC) presented in a “Buddha position” with severely limited mobility, including bilateral hip, severe knee flexion, and clubfoot deformities. Surgical correction involved (1) bilateral femoral derotation and shortening osteotomies, knee capsulotomies, and soft-tissue releases; (2) gradual left knee extension using an external fixator; and (3) distal femoral extension osteotomies and Verebelyi-Ogston procedures for clubfoot correction. Postoperative recovery involved intensive rehabilitation and orthotic support. Improved lower limb alignment enabled the patient to transition from non-ambulatory to assisted walking with knee-ankle-foot orthosis.

Conclusions:

This proximal-to-distal approach significantly enhances autonomy in AMC patients with severe deformities.
BIST 30’da Ortalama Varyans Modeli, Sharpe ve Treynor Ölçütlerine Dayalı Genetik Algoritmayla Portföy Optimizasyonu Uygulaması
Authors: Yılmaz Hakan
Published: February 2025

Portföy optimizasyonu, finansal piyasalarda işlem yapan yatırımcılar tarafından en iyi yatırım kombinasyonunun oluşturulmasıdır. Portföy optimizasyonunda amaç, en yüksek getiriyi sağlayacak olan finansal varlığın, en düşük risk ile seçilmesi işlemidir. Yatırımcılar için oldukça zor olan bu işlem, portföy optimizasyon problemi olarak ifade edilmektedir. Bu problemin çözümünde çeşitli optimizasyon modelleri dikkate alınmaktadır. Bu çalışmanın amacı; maksimum getiri ve Markowitz ortalama varyans modeli, Sharpe oranı ve Treynor endeksi performans ölçütleri aracılığıyla BIST 30 endeksinde bulunan hisselerden en uygun portföyün oluşturulması ve kullanılan yöntemlerin başarılarının genetik algoritma ile ölçülmesidir. Çalışmada 03.01.2022 – 28.02.2024 arası hisse senedi günlük kapanış fiyatları kullanılmıştır. Çalışma sonucunda, maksimum getiri modeli ve Treynor endeksi modeliyle en yüksek portföy getirisi sağlanırken, en yüksek portföy riski ortaya çıkmıştır. Portföy getirisini maksimize etmesi açısından değerlendirildiğinde Treynor endeksi modelinin Sharpe oranı modeline kıyasla daha iyi bir portföy çeşitlemesi ortaya koyduğu anlaşılmıştır. Buna karşın Markowitz ortalama varyans modeliyle en düşük portföy riskine sahip portföy çeşitlemesi oluşturulmuştur.
Evaluation of the EU Aviation Sector’s Progress Towards Net-Zero CO2 Emission by 2050
Authors: İlhan Caner , Şahin Aybike Esra
Published: February 2025

The study examines 31 years of aviation-related CO2 emission data from 1990 to 2021, utilizing advanced modeling techniques such as linear regression and Prophet to anticipate CO2 emissions for the critical years 2030 and 2050. The report digs into each country's performance, assessing their promises to cut or even eliminate carbon emissions in line with the ambitious targets of the European Green Deal. Romania emerges as a noteworthy pioneer, demonstrating a remarkable commitment to decreasing emissions by an average of 47.22% by 2030 and 56.54% by 2050, establishing itself as a vital contributor to carbon neutrality. On the other hand, Luxembourg, Poland, and Spain are recognized as countries that deviate considerably from the established targets, raising worries about their capacity to reach the ambitious goals set by the European Green Deal. The study not only gives insights into expected CO2 emission trajectories but also helps our knowledge of the obstacles and possibilities each nation has in achieving the carbon-neutral ambitions described in the European Green Deal.
Coalescence of water droplets at 125 K
Authors: Loerting Thomas , Giebelmann Johannes , Eklund Tobias , Boesenberg Ulrike , Pudell Jan-Etienne , Jo Wonhyuk , Möller Johannes , Rodriguez-Fernandez Angel , Wrigley James , Zozulya Alexey , Madsen Anders , Bartl Pit , Berner Fiona , Bauer Robert , Giesselmann Niels , Gierke Alexander , Štůsek Radim , Veselý Lukáš , Heger Dominik , Goy Claudia , Grübel Gerhard , Lehmkühler Felix , Amann-Winkel Katrin
Published: February 2025

The process of merging bubbles or droplets with one another or with a continuous phase is known as coalescence.⁠1 It takes place from the microscale, e.g., in technological applications such as contrast-enhanced ultrasound in medicine, to the macroscale, e.g., in planet and star formation. Coalescence of water droplets is an important process in nature, e.g., in Earth’s troposphere for growth of raindrops⁠2. Usually coalescence is studied at ambient temperature, but even in clouds it takes place in the temperature range down to 235 K, where water is supercooled and metastable with respect to crystalline ice.⁠3 In space, transport of molecules between water interfaces takes place at even harsher conditions in the deeply supercooled or glassy state, down to 10 K. This is for example the case for grainy amorphous ice covering interstellar dust particles in molecular clouds⁠4. Yet, it is currently unknown whether droplet coalescence occurs in deeply supercooled water at all and if so at what time scale. Here we observe that micrometer-sized glassy water droplets coalesce between ~123 and ~140 K upon slow heating on the time scale of hours to minutes based on small-angle X-ray scattering as well as scanning electron microscopy experiments. Droplet interfaces start to vanish close to water’s first glass transition temperature, indicating that water molecules experience translational motion across the droplet interfaces even under cryo-conditions. This means that glassy low-density water turns into a viscous liquid at its glass transition temperature, ruling out the possibility of an orientational glass transition⁠5 or point defect dynamics⁠6. The latter cases would not lead to a supercooled liquid but to a solid with rotational disorder. This finding helps to resolve the debate of whether amorphous ice is thermodynamically continuously connected to deeply supercooled liquid water in terms of a glass transition⁠7–12 and provides us with an ultraslow-motion observation of the processes of coalescence at high viscosities. The idea in coalescence theory13 that the viscous force arrests the droplet interfaces does not hold at 125 K, where water is of ultrahigh viscosity, but coalescence takes place.
Supercooled storage of red blood cells slows down the metabolic storage lesion
Authors: Nemkov Travis , Isiksacan Ziya , William Nishaka , Senturk Rahime , Boudreau Luke E. , Yarmush Martin L. , Acker Jason P. , D’Alessandro Angelo , Usta O. Berk
Published: February 2025

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion, a life-saving intervention, is limited by reduced RBC potency over time. Cold storage at + 4°C for up to 42 days can reduce transfusion efficacy due to alterations termed the "storage lesion." Strategies to mitigate the storage lesion include alkaline additive solutions and supercooled storage to extend storage by reducing metabolic stresses. However, RBC metabolism during supercooled storage in standard or alkaline additives remains unstudied. This study, thus, investigated the impact of storage additives (alkaline E-Sol5 and standard SAGM) and temperatures (+ 4°C, -4°C, -8°C) on RBC metabolism during 21- and 42-days storage using high-throughput metabolomics. RBCs stored with E-Sol5 showed increased glycolysis and higher ratios of reduced to oxidized glutathione compared to SAGM. Supercooled storage at -4°C showed markedly lower hemolysis than − 8°C, preserved adenylate pools, decreased glucose consumption, and reduced lactate accumulation and pentose phosphate pathway activation. The combination of supercooled storage and E-Sol5 helped to preserve ATP and 2,3-DPG reservoirs, while preventing catabolism and free fatty acid accumulation. While supercooled storage with E-Sol5 offers a promising alternative to standard storage, preserving RBC metabolic and functional quality, further research is necessary to validate and improve on these foundational findings.​​
The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children, fourth and fifth editions perform comparably in children with Batten Disease
Authors: Adams Heather , Augustine Erika F. , Bonifacio Kristen , Collins Alyssa , Vierhile Amy E. , Mink Jonathan W.
Published: February 2025

Background: The neuronal ceroid lipofuscinoses (Batten disease) are rare neurodegenerative lysosomal storage diseases principally of childhood onset and an autosomal recessive inheritance pattern. Cognitive regression is a hallmark of the disease, and has been characterized as part of the University of Rochester Batten Center’s prospective longitudinal natural history. The objective of the present study was to establish convergent validity of the two most recent versions of the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children in this population (WISC-IV, 2003; WISC-V, 2014) due to anticipated eventual obsolescence of WISC-IV. 18 children and young adults (12 males, 6 females) with a genetically confirmed NCL diagnosis were administered selected subtests from the WISC-IV and WISC-V. We used bivariate correlations and repeated measures ANOVA between matching subtests across these two WISC versions to determine convergence of the measures.
Results: WISC-IV and WISC-V verbal subtests were strongly correlated with one another and mean age-adjusted scores for comparable subtests on WISC-IV vs WISC-V were not significantly different from one another.
Conclusions: Overall, the minimal performance differences on the two measures supports combining WISC-IV and WISC-V datasets for larger-scale analyses of the neurocognitive natural history of NCL disorders.
Prospects for pastoralist-farmer conflict in Africa
Authors: Khorsandi Mostafa , Fillol Erwann , Smerald Andrew , Butterbach-Bahl Klaus , Rahimi Jaber
Published: February 2025

Pastoralism is a major way of life in the Sahelian and Sudanian (SaSu) zone of Africa, playing an important social-environmental role through food production and the use of suitable land for seasonal migrations (transhumance). Using Earth Observation (EO) data, we systematically analyze environmental factors—water access, soil properties, topography, vegetation cover, tree cover, road access, and biomass availability— to assess the SaSu’s suitability for transhumance as well as for permanent farming systems, and provide perspectives on potential conflict zones between herders and farmers in case of conflicting interests. Our study is the first to present comprehensive and detailed transhumance corridors that account for environmental constraints. We show that 69% of conflicts from 2001–2020 involve or are related to tensions between farmers and pastoralists, while 31% of conflicts are attributed to interactions between pastoralists. Our research provides valuable insights into the complex relationships between pastoralist communities and their socio-ecological environment and highlights the critical role of EO-based decision support systems in mapping and understanding pastoralism in the SaSu region.
Beneficial reversal of dominance maintains a resistance polymorphism under fluctuating insecticide selection
Authors: Karageorgi Marianthi , Lyulina Anastasia , Bitter Mark , Lappo Egor , Greenblum Sharon , Mouza Zach , Tran Caitlynn , Huynh Andy , Oken Hayes , Schmidt Paul , Petrov Dmitri
Published: February 2025

Large-effect functional genetic variation is commonly found in natural populations, even though natural selection should erode such variants. Theory suggests that under fluctuating selective pressures, beneficial reversal of dominance - where alleles are dominant when beneficial and recessive when deleterious - can protect these loci from selection, allowing them to persist. However, empirical evidence for this mechanism remains elusive because testing requires direct measurements of selection and dominance in natural conditions. Here, we show that insecticide-resistant alleles at the Ace locus in Drosophila melanogaster persist worldwide at intermediate frequencies and exhibit beneficial reversal of dominance. By combining laboratory and large-scale field mesocosm experiments with insecticide manipulation, and mathematical modeling, we show that the benefits of the resistant Ace alleles are dominant while their fitness costs recessive. We further show that fluctuating insecticide selection generates chromosome-scale genomic perturbations at sites linked to the resistant Ace alleles, revealing broader genomic consequences of this mechanism. Overall, our results suggest that beneficial reversal of dominance contributes to the maintenance of functional genetic variation and impacts patterns of genomic diversity via linked fluctuating selection.
Optimal scaling of protein-water interactions coupled with targeted torsional refinements yields balanced force fields suitable for simulations of single-chain folded proteins, disordered polypeptides, and protein-protein complexes
Authors: Mittal Jeetain , Phan Tien , Mohanty Priyesh
Published: February 2025

All-atom molecular dynamics (MD) simulations based on physics-based force fields, serve as an essential complement to experiments for investigating protein structure, dynamics, and interactions. Despite significant advances in force field development, achieving a consistent balance of molecular interactions that stabilize folded proteins and protein-protein complexes while simultaneously capturing the conformational dynamics of intrinsically disordered polypeptides (IDPs), remains challenging. In this work, we systematically evaluated two current state-of-the-art force fields (i) AMBER ff03ws, and (ii) AMBER ff99SBws, by comprehensively assessing their performance on both folded domains and IDPs. By selectively scaling side chain-water interactions for uncharged residues, the refined AMBER ff03w-sc force field demonstrated improved conformational stability of folded proteins while maintaining accurate representations of IDPs. However, AMBER ff03w-sc failed to correct the discrepancies in NMR-derived ps-ns timescale backbone dynamics associated with flexible loops. Interestingly, AMBER ff99SBws retained its structural stability despite the application of upscaled interactions with water for both sidechain and backbone atoms and displayed robust agreement with NMR-derived backbone dynamics. Further, a targeted refinement of glutamine backbone torsion parameters, yielded AMBER ff99SBws-STQ′, which effectively resolved discrepancies associated with glutamine α-helicity predictions. Extensive validation against small angle X-ray scattering (SAXS) and NMR chemical shifts, revealed that both refined force fields accurately reproduced chain dimensions and secondary structure propensities of disordered peptides and prion-like domains. Importantly, both force fields reliably maintained the stability of protein-protein complexes over microsecond timescales. Our systematic refinement strategies provide improved accuracy and transferability for simulating diverse protein systems, from folded domains to IDPs and protein complexes.
Climate-smart urbanization could reduce carbon and nitrogen emission in China
Authors: Gu Baojing , Deng Ouping , He Yueqiang , Cui Jinglan , Luo Rongfu , Wu Xiaobo
Published: February 2025

Urbanization through rural-to-urban migration can increase energy consumption if people relocate to regions with challenging climates. Here, we show that traditional urbanization could result in a more than 60% rise in residential electricity consumption in China by 2050 compared to 2020 levels. In contrast, climate-smart urbanization, a strategy that considers energy consumption intensity in migration decisions, can reduce electricity consumption intensity and associated carbon and nitrogen emissions by up to 22%. This reduction primarily stems from decreased energy demands for temperature regulation in climate-appropriate regions, minimizing seasonal cooling and heating needs. These emission reductions could generate annual social benefits valued at US$16.8-28.6 billion, encompassing significant improvements in human health, climate stability, and ecosystem health. The preference for climate-appropriate regions and policy support in the context of future climate change is expected to improve the feasibility of climate-smart urbanization, promoting carbon neutrality and environmental sustainability in the future.
Transumbilical Laparoscopic-assisted Appendectomy (Tulaa) for Acute Appendicitis in Children: to Bury or Not to Bury the Appendiceal Stump? – a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Mazzarolo Stella , Boscarelli Alessandro , Giangreco Manuela , Dobrinja Chiara , Codrich Daniela , Scarpa Maria-Grazia , Iaquinto Marianna , Peric-Anicic Matea , Olenik Damiana , Maita Sonia , Guida Edoardo , Schleef Jurgen
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Acute appendicitis is one of the most common surgical conditions in pediatric and general surgery. To date, the management of the appendiceal stump during appendectomy remains controversial. The purpose of this study was to retrospectively investigate the management strategies of acute appendicitis in a tertiary children’s hospital in terms of surgical techniques and time, hospital length of stay, and postoperative complications.
Methods: The records of patients < 18 years of age who were treated for acute appendicitis at our Pediatric Surgery Unit from December 2018 to January 2024 were retrospectively reviewed. Data were extrapolated from the departmental database, and clinical notes were reviewed.
Results: The records of 278 patients who underwent appendectomy within a 5-year period at our institution were essentially used to compare appendiceal stump inversion and simple ligation. The two groups were similar in terms of sex (P = 0.05), age (P = 0.40), weight (P = 0.78), and associated pathologies (P = 0.12). Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in length of hospital stay (P = 0.21) and postoperative complications (P = 0.15). Notably, 78.6% of appendicitis cases treated without stump invagination were uncomplicated, whereas 20% were complicated (4.3% abscess and 15.7% peritonitis cases). In contrast, AS invagination was performed in 87% of uncomplicated appendicitis and 13.1% of complicated appendicitis cases (6.8% abscess and 6.3% peritonitis cases). Therefore, simple ligation was also effective in complicated appendicitis cases (P=0.03), with no significant difference in postoperative complications (P = 0.15).
Conclusions: Simple ligation does not compromise treatment efficacy nor increase postoperative complications, nor the length of hospital stay. Specifically, our data suggest that simple ligation is at least as effective as invaginating the appendiceal stump, and it might probably simplify the whole procedure.
Highly efficient field-free switching by orbital Hall torque in a MoS2-based device operating at room temperature
Authors: Bianco* Antonio , Ceccardi* Michele , Cecchini Raimondo , Marré Daniele , Barman Chanchal K. , Bernardini Fabio , Filippetti Alessio , Caglieris Federico , Pallecchi Ilaria
Published: February 2025

Charge-to-spin and spin-to-charge conversion mechanisms in high spin-orbit materials are the new frontier of memory devices. They operate via spin-orbit torque (SOT) switching of a magnetic electrode, driven by an applied charge current. In this work, we propose a novel memory device based on the semiconducting two-dimensional centrosymmetric transition metal dichalcogenide (TMD) MoS2, that operates as a SOT device in the writing process and a spin valve in the reading process. We demonstrate that stable voltage states at room temperature can be deterministically controlled by a switching current density as low as 3.2x104 A/cm2 even in zero field. An applied field ~50-100 Oe can be used as a further or alternative control parameter for the state switching. Ab initio calculations of spin Hall effect (SHE) and orbital Hall effect (OHE) indicate that the latter is the only one responsible for the generation of the SOT in the magnetic electrode. The large value of OHC in bulk MoS2 makes our device competitive in terms of energetic efficiency and could be integrated in TMD heterostructures to design memory devices with multiple magnetization states for non-Boolean computation.

*Antonio Bianco and Michele Ceccardi contributed equally to the work.
Study On The Application Effect Of Energy-based Solid Beverage in Nutritional Intervention for Peritoneal Dialysis Patients with Newly Placed Tubes
Authors: Deng Jia , Zeng Yilin , Ye Zhiming , Chen Dai , Wang Dan , Deng Lili , Jian Jinlian , Huang Yujun , Peng Jingjun
Published: February 2025

Objective: To explore the clinical effect of postoperative nutritional intervention using energy-based solid drinks for peritoneal dialysis patients with newly placed dialysis tubes.
Methods: Patients who underwent peritoneal dialysis tube placement in Guangdong Province people's hospital during 1 Aug 2022 to 31 Dec 2023 were taken as study subjects. Control group used traditional dietary education and intelligent software for home dietary supervision, and the experimental group added energy-based solid drinks on the basis of the control group, comparing the laboratory results and nutritional scores of the two groups at one month and three months after the intervention.
Result: The difference between the albumin and NRS2002 nutritional scores of the experimental group and the control group one month after the intervention was statistically significant ; the difference between the albumin, blood sodium and NRS2002 nutritional scores of the experimental group and the control group three months after the intervention was statistically significant .
Conclusion:Nutritional intervention with energy-based solid beverages in peritoneal dialysis patients with newly placed tubes can enhance patient nutrition in the three months.
Complexities and capabilities of Scan4Safety in NHS hospitals: a qualitative study of a national demonstrator site
Authors: Lichtner Valentina , Irnazarow Aleksandra , Bush Stephen , Dowding Dawn , Elphick Philip , Franklin Bryony Dean , Jani Yogini H , Songhurst Mark
Published: February 2025

Background: Data standards and barcoding technologies are implemented in hospitals to uniquely identify objects, people and locations, streamline the management of supplies and inventories, improve efficiency, reduce waste and improve patient safety and quality of care. The UK Department of Health & Social Care Scan4Safety demonstrator programme (2016-2019) had six hospitals adopt global data standards to address these aims. This study examined the implementation of Scan4Safety at one NHS demonstrator site to understand the hospital experience of adopting these standards, barcoding and related technologies.
Methods: Exploratory case study design, informed by information infrastructure theory, at one Scan4Safety demonstrator site. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with internal and external stakeholders, analysed thematically together with thematic analysis of documents related to the Scan4Safety programme.
Results: The NHS Trust Scan4Safety team was interviewed, together with senior roles in procurement, inventory, recalls management, nurses and surgeons (n=15), and senior roles in other demonstrator sites, NHS supplies, as well as GS1 - the organization responsible for the standards (n=4); 67 documents were analysed. Key enablers for Scan4Safety included: allocated funding, government role/regulation, executive buy-in/wide stakeholder involvement, patient focus, agile/adaptive approach and data linkage. Challenges were both internal and external, mainly pertaining to data quality, work-as-done, and trade-offs. Mechanisms of anticipated positive outcomes, and potential risks were also identified.
Conclusions: Linked standards for identification of patients, products, places, and procedures, across supplies and hospital processes, constitute a wide-ranging information infrastructure with the potential for significant value to patients and the whole health system.
Leadership Commitment and Organizational Culture Influence on Implementation of Good Governance in Improving Financial Information Systems Quality at the Regional Revenue Agency of West Java Province
Authors: Wihatmono Shantyo Raharjo , Suharman Harry , Daryanto Daryanto
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to determine the influencet of leadership commitment and organizational culture on the implementation of good governance in Improving the Quality of Financial Information Systems. The research sample was 126 people spread across four representative districts/cities, Samsat (One-stop Administrative System), and the West Java Province Regional Revenue Agency The results of the study indicated that there was a positive and significant influence of leadership commitment on the implementation of good governance in the West Java Province Regional Revenue Agency. Moreover, there was a positive and significant influence of the implementation of good governance on the quality of the financial information system in the West Java Province Regional Revenue Agency. In addition, there was a commitment that affected the quality of the financial information system and had a significant impact on the implementation of good governance in the West Java Province Regional Revenue Agency. So Organizational Culture affects the quality of the financial information system and has a significant impact on the implementation of good governance in the West Java Province Regional Revenue Agency.
Adversarial Learning for Image Generation: A Comprehensive Study on GANs using TensorFlow and Keras with MNIST Dataset
Authors:   Dr. Shafiqul Abidin 1, Dr. Saurabh Gupta2,  and Dr. Mohd. Izhar*3,   2. MOHD. IZHAR
Published: February 2025

Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) have emerged as a powerful framework for generating realistic and high-quality images. This research paper presents a thorough investigation into the application of GANs for image generation, utilizing the popular TensorFlow and Keras frameworks. The study focuses on the MNIST dataset, a benchmark in the field of computer vision, to demonstrate the capabilities and challenges of GANs. The research explores the foundational concepts of GANs, including the adversarial relationship between a generator and a discriminator. The proposed model architecture incorporates a generator that synthesizes images from random noise and a discriminator responsible for distinguishing between real and generated images. We delve into the training process, discussing the optimization strategies employed to enhance the performance of both components. The experiments conducted over a substantial number of epochs reveal insights into the evolving dynamics of the adversarial training process. We analyze the trade-offs and challenges encountered during training, emphasizing the delicate balance required to ensure convergence and stability. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed approach, we present quantitative metrics such as discriminator accuracy and loss, as well as qualitative results through visualizations of generated images. The paper concludes with a discussion of the broader implications of adversarial learning in image generation and suggests directions for future research in refining GAN architectures and training methodologies.
AI-Driven Digital Transformation and Sustainable Logistics: Innovations in Global Supply Chain Management
Authors: Moghaddam Ghazaleh Kermani , Karimzadeh Mostafa
Published: February 2025

The global supply chain has progressed beyond conventional logistics, incorporating digital technology, sustainability, and automation. It involves interrelated processes that convert raw resources into finished goods. The rising complexity from cross-border legislation, currency volatility, and evolving market demands requires decision-making driven by AI, Big Data, and automation. This study does a Systematic Literature Review of 65 journal papers (2010–2024) to analyze developments in logistics via AI, digital innovation, and sustainability. In contrast to conventional models characterized by static decision-making, emerging frameworks integrate AI-driven optimization, blockchain transparency, and real-time data for predictive forecasting. Furthermore, autonomous freight transportation, encompassing self-driving trucks, drone-assisted last-mile delivery, and hyperloop cargo systems, is transforming global logistics. Findings underscore significant transformations in supply chain strategy, focusing on sustainable mobility, carbon footprint mitigation, and integrated digital logistics. This analysis delineates research deficiencies and proposes avenues for future investigation into autonomous logistics and AI-driven systems in freight management.
Integrating Machine Learning and RAG-Based Chatbot for Mandarin Orange Disease Detection in Hilly Region of Nepal
Authors: Lamsal Ritu Raj , Acharya Prahlad , Pokhrel Rijan , Dahal Sakar , Sigdel Vishal
Published: February 2025

Citrus farming, particularly Mandarin orange cultivation, is a crucial economic activity in Nepal’s hilly regions. However, disease detection and management remain major challenges. This study presents an efficient method for identifying and controlling five key citrus diseases affecting the Nepali orange market: black spot, canker, Huanglongbing (HLB), leaf miner, and sooty mold. We employ the MobileNetV2 model for disease prediction and a One-Class SVM model for initial leaf classification. Additionally, we integrate a Llama-3.2-11b-vision RAG-based chatbot, which analyzes leaf images and provides real-time guidance on disease prevention and orchard management. A mobile application has been developed to integrate the chatbot with a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for farmers. Our approach achieves 95.6% accuracy in disease identification and 85.6% accuracy in orange leaf classification. With its intuitive mobile platform and AI-driven chatbot, this system has the potential to transform citrus farming in Nepal by enabling timely interventions and improved disease management.
An Analytical cross-sectional study on QUALITY OF LIFE among Diabetics in Rural and Urban Puducherry
Authors: Murugan Pavithran
Published: February 2025

Introduction: QUALITY OF LIFE ‘as a sense of well-being that encompasses the physical, psychological, social and spiritual condition’ Cases of diabetes in India are attributed to the lifestyle changes along with rapid urbanization and industrialization. With increase in prevalence of Diabetes in India it becomes important to assess the quality of life for better care and control.
Methods: Cross sectional study conducted in Field practice areas Rural and Urban centres, Puducherry. The total sample size estimated to be 360. Diabetic patients attending the NCD clinic was selected by systematic random sampling. Data was collected by (WHO) QOL-BREF questionnaire, under domains of Quality of life-physical health, psychological health, social relationships and environment.
Results: The mean age group was 57.5±10.8, and there was a statistically significant difference in the mean quality of life (QOL) between urban and rural areas in terms of psychological and social scores. The study participants' social score peaked at 227 (63%) for good QOL, while their psychological score was 166 (46%) for poor QOL. All four QOL domains showed a significant correlation when multivariate analysis was performed after controlling for gender, education, family income, and place of residence.
Conclusion: Diabetes does impair the QoL of patients, there is a significant difference was found between urban and rural population need to focus on requirements of care equally in both urban and rural area.
Selbstbestimmtes Handeln mit KI in der Hochschule: Forschungsdefizit und -perspektiven
Authors: Reinmann Gabi , Watanabe Alice , Herzberg Dominikus , Simon Judith
Published: February 2025

Ein unkritischer Einsatz von KI an der Hochschule kann Kompetenz-, Kontroll- und Sozialverluste befördern und damit selbstbestimmtes Handeln beeinträchtigen, das in Lehre, Studium und Forschung als eigener Wert angesehen werden kann. Die bisherige primär empirisch ausgerichtete Forschung trägt wenig dazu bei, KI-Risiken besser zu verstehen und einen selbstbestimmten Umgang mit KI an der Hochschule auf wissenschaftlicher Basis zu stärken. Der Beitrag diskutiert dieses Forschungsdefizit, schlägt eine wissenschaftsdidaktische Rahmung vor und zeigt bildungstheoretische und gestaltungsbasierte Perspektiven für die Hochschulbildungsforschung auf, die das empirische Vorgehen ergänzen.
KI und Kritisches Denken beim Forschenden Lernen in Politikwissenschaften
Authors: Voigt Julius , Girgensohn Katrin , Neyer Jürgen , Fröhlich Bernd , Gholiagha Sassan , Kiesel Dora , Riehmann Patrick , Sienknecht Mitja , Stein Benno , Wolska Magdalena Anna , López-García Irene , Wiegmann Matti , Cromm Christiane
Published: February 2025

Dieser Beitrag fragt, was es bedeutet, kritisch mit KI umzugehen und wie kritisches Denken und ein kritischer Umgang mit KI in der Hochschullehre aussehen und gefördert werden können. Dazu gibt er Einblicke in Forschendes Lernen im Fach Politikwissenschaften, bei dem Studierende dabei begleitet wurden, KI-Tools für ihre Forschungs- und Schreibprozesse einzusetzen. Auf der Basis von studentischen Reflexionsschreiben, die im Rahmen des Seminars von den Studierenden wöchentlich verfasst wurden, wird der kritische Umgang mit KI durch eine qualitative Inhalts­analyse untersucht.
Modernisierung von MINT-Praktika durch GenKI – Zugang zum forschenden Lernen?
Authors: Horst Christoph , Zimmermann Joel , Breiling Matthias , Wesemann Liam , Barnat Miriam , Seibler Jost
Published: February 2025

Die Arbeit thematisiert generative Künstliche Intelligenz (GenKI) in MINT-Praktika, fokussiert auf die Unterstützung des forschenden Lernens. Dabei wurden mehrere KI-basierte Chatbots entwickelt und evaluiert, um Studierende in ihrem selbstgesteuerten Lernprozess zu unterstützen. Der Schwerpunkt liegt auf der Vermittlung komplexer wissenschaftlicher Konzepte und der Förderung von Selbstständigkeit. Die letzte, themenspezifischere Generation, des Bots zeigt eine deutliche Verbesserung in der Unterstützung des Lernprozesses. Die Arbeit schlägt einen dreistufigen Prozess vor, wie GenKI gezielt eingesetzt werden kann, um das forschende Lernen in naturwissenschaftlichen Praktika zu unterstützen.
Estratégias de implementação da extensão universitária no contexto da “curricularização”: o caso do Cineclube Abaeté (2022-2023)
Authors: ARAÚJO FILHO Tarcísio , SANTOS Gabriela Aparecida
Published: February 2025

A "curricularização” da extensão visou fortalecer a extensão, tornando-a obrigatória para todo o corpo discente. Este artigo examina as ações e os resultados do Cineclube Abaeté, implementado pela Universidade do Estado de Minas Gerais, entre 2022 e 2023, quando a medida passou a vigorar. Estabelecendo um paralelo com o relato de outros projetos cineclubistas universitários, discutimos de que formas as estratégias que desenvolvemos fortaleceram o potencial extensionista do cineclube. A principal delas foi estimular os estudantes a atuarem como mediadores entre a unidade acadêmica e a comunidade local por meio de parcerias com instituições locais. Concluímos que o engajamento de um número maior de estudantes aumenta, quantitativa e qualitativamente, as conexões da universidade com a sociedade, resultando em sessões movimentadas, com debates sobre temas de interesse social alinhados aos interesses do público, e com ganhos pedagógicos efetivos para os estudantes envolvidos.
QUANDO NASCE UMA RAINHA - UMA ANÁLISE DA HISTÓRIA DO XADREZ COM O OLHAR DE GÊNERO
Authors: Ferreira Isabela Ribeiro , Tortato Cintia de Souza Batista
Published: February 2025

O presente artigo faz uma análise com um olhar de gênero da história do xadrez, refletindo sobre a inserção de uma peça feminina cinco séculos depois da sua criação e participação da mulher no ambiente enxadrista, questionando a relevância da presença feminina na trajetória deste jogo tão fascinante. Um jogo conhecido mundialmente e atualmente popularizado jogada por crianças, jovens, adultos e idosos pelo prazer do lazer ou jogado profissionalmente. Um ambiente que por mais que tenha uma peça feminina a Rainha é dominado pelos homens dentro e fora do tabuleiro, refletindo em desafios para as mulheres que querem seguir carreira. Porém existe mulheres que conseguiram quebrar barreiras e conquistar títulos no ambiente enxadrístico superando os obstáculos e desafios diários. O artigo também traz o conceito do “Labirinto de Cristal” e “Teto de vidro” refletindo sobre a dificuldade que as mulheres precisando superar em ambientes masculinizados ou pelo fato de serem mulher. Este artigo será uma revisão bibliográfica.