bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pseudo-linkage or real-linkage of rust resistance genes in a wheat- Thinopyrum intermedium translocation line
Authors: Li Jianbo , Ryan Merrill , Dong Chongmei , Forrest Kerrie , Hayden Matthew , Singh Smriti , Wang Yuqi , Ahmed Nizam , McIntosh Robert , Zhang Peng
Published: November 2024

Wheat addition lines Z4 and Z5 carrying rust resistance genes from Thinopyrum intermedium (JJJsJsStSt, 2n = 6x = 42) together with three wheat lines involved in the production of these addition lines were analysed by rust response, 90K SNP genotyping, and molecular cytogenetic analysis. Backcross and selfed populations involving the addition lines and various wheat cultivars were studied to understand the inheritance of the alien resistance genes. Although inheritance studies indicated genetic linkage, the alien genes for resistance to leaf rust (LR) and stripe rust (YR) in Z4 were present in different wheat-Th. intermedium translocation chromosomes. We found that LR and YR are in pseudo-linkage, rather than true linkage.
Hydroxyurea efficacy in sickle cell anemia patients in low-income middle country in Cote d’Ivoire
Authors: KOFFI KOUASSI GUSTAVE , Dieket Ruth , N’dhatz Emeraude , Abenan Nelly Eloise , Silué Alexis Dohoma , Kamara Ismael , Kouakou Boidy , Nanho Danho Clotaire
Published: November 2024

Background. Very few studies have been set in Subsaharan Africa according to hydroxyurea effacy and safety. We aimed to evaluate Hydroxyurea efficacy and safety and its benefits in low-resource settings.
Methods We conducted a prospective comparative study of SCA patients. 128 patients was enrolled and divided in two groups. 68 patients treated by hydroxyurea at doses 10-20mg/kg/day and 62 patients control groups without hydroxyurea. The end points assessed was feasibility, safety, and benefits (laboratory variables, sickle cell–related events, transfusions).
Results : The patients assigned to hydroxyurea treatment had lower annual rate of crises than the control group (median, 2.9 vs. 5.3 crises per year, P=0.001), fewer annual rate of hospitalizations (median 2.2 vs. 4.7, P=0.002), and fewer annual rate of transfusion (median 1.3 vs.5.1, P=0.001). We observed a significant increase in Hb F level from 11.77% to 14.6% (p=0.001) in patient treated by hydroxyurea. We also observed a significant increase in the mean of Hb level from 7.3 g/dl to 9.2 g/dl for patients treated by hydroxyurea (p=0.004). Patients treated by hydroxyurea also have a beneficial effect on WBC and platelet levels by reduction in leukocytosis and thrombocytosis. the occurrence of annual number of infectious complications was significantly lower in the group of patients with hydroxyurea.
Conclusion: Hydroxyurea has a key clinical benefits by reducing the incidence of vaso-occlusive events, infections, transfusions, which translates into fewer hospitalizations. The main problem is the fact that, it’s not accessible for most of our patients who live in poor socio-economical condition.
Effect of extracorporeal shock wave therapy on expression of ASIC3 in DRG and spinal cord and inflammatory response of KOA
Authors: Lv Xianglong , Yang Xingyue , An Songsong , Huang Yuanyue , Huang Yuanxin , Wo Chunxin , Yao Jing
Published: November 2024

Objective
Extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) has been shown in clinical trials to be effective in reducing knee osteoarthritis (KOA) patients' pain complaints and enhancing knee joint function; however, the underlying mechanism is still unknown. In order to clarify the mechanism by which ESWT reduces pain in KOA rats, this study will examine the effects of the treatment on the expression of acid-sensitive ion channel 3 (ASIC3) in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG) of KOA rats. It will also assess inflammatory factors in the spinal cord and synovium.
Methods
A total of thirty-six male Sprague Dawley (SD) rats were randomly allocated into three distinct groups: the control group, the model group, and the shock wave group, with an equal number of twelve rats in each. The right joint cavity of the control group underwent an injection of normal saline, whereas both the model and shock wave groups received an injection of monosodium iodoacetate (MIA) into their respective right joint cavities. Subsequently,, shock wave therapy (ESWT) was administered to the shock wave group. Paw withdrawal thermal latency (PWTL) and paw withdrawal mechanical threshold (PWMT) were measured as indicators. X-ray examination assessed the degree of knee injury and treatment effects in rats. Immunofluorescence staining detected ASIC3 expression in L3-5 spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG). Hematoxylin-eosin staining allowed for morphological observation of knee joints using light microscopy (HE). Immunohistochemical methods were employed to detect interleukin-1β (IL-1β), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumor necrosis factor-alpha(TNF-α) expression in spinal cord tissue at L3-L5 level as well as synovial tissue within the knee joint.
Results
Secondary pain sensitization occurs in rats with MIA-induced knee osteoarthritis (KOA), and extracorporeal shock wave therapy (ESWT) effectively mitigates the symptoms of pain sensitization in KOA rats. X-ray and histopathological examination results demonstrate that ESWT can delay the progression of KOA. Furthermore, ESWT treatment leads to a reduction in levels of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 in the synovium, cartilage, and spinal cord of KOA rats, thereby improving inflammation associated with KOA. Additionally, ASIC3 expression is down-regulated by ESWT in the spinal cord and dorsal root ganglia (DRG).
Conclusion
ESWT exhibits the potential capability to alleviate pain sensitization symptoms and decelerate the progression of KOA in rats, potentially by virtue of its efficacy in decreasing the concentrations of TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6 within the synovium and spinal cord, thereby ameliorating inflammation associated with KOA. Furthermore, ESWT may suppress the expression of ASIC3 in the spinal cord and DRG. These discoveries furnish a solid theoretical basis for the consideration of ESWT as a therapeutic alternative for KOA.
Human pressure homogenises species and traits globally
Authors: Graco-Roza Caio , Wong Mark , Barber Nicholas , Brodersen Jakob , Callisto Marcos , Castro Diego , Dröse William , Etard Adrienne , Gonçalves-Souza Thiago , Graham Catherine , Huszar Vera , Isaia Marco , Lachat Thibault , Marinho Marcelo , Moretti Marco , Ossola Alessandro , Piano Elena , Romero Gustavo , Seehausen Ole , Stavert Jamie , Soininen Janne , Wohlgemuth Thomas , Altermatt Florian , Gossner Martin , Roth Tobias , Strebel Nicolas
Published: November 2024

Human pressures, particularly urbanisation and agricultural expansion, profoundly affect biodiversity by reshaping species and functional trait distributions, with critical consequences for ecosystem resilience and multifunctionality. Yet, the extent and strength of these impacts across diverse taxa and ecosystems remain poorly understood. Here, we analyse 160 spatial datasets, encompassing over 13,000 local communities and nine major taxa in freshwater and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide. Our results reveal that human pressure is the dominant driver of species and trait replacement, consistently outweighing the effects of climate and spatial distance. Despite observing a prevalence of biotic differentiation across landscapes, we reveal that the occurrence of biotic homogenisation is consistently linked to the dominant effects of human pressure. These homogenising effects are particularly pronounced in the trait composition of terrestrial communities and the species composition of freshwater communities, suggesting distinct mechanisms across realms. We find that rates of species and trait replacement increase rapidly along the human pressure gradient, especially between low and medium pressure, before they stabilise. Importantly, an exception occurs in urban landscapes, where species replacement increases exponentially. Although ecological communities generally exhibit species turnover along the human pressure gradient, we find that they are disproportionately homogenised in traits. While this provides resilience to environmental changes, it can delay the recognition of species collapse until key functional traits are lost, risking sudden ecosystem breakdown. Our findings underscore the urgent need for conservation strategies that prioritise the preservation of minimally impacted habitats to sustain ecosystem resilience and multifunctionality.
In vivo brain delivery of BBB-enabled iduronate 2-sulfatase in rats
Authors: Costain Will J. , Haqqani Arsalan S. , Hussack Greg , Faassen Henk van , Lessard Etienne , Ling Binbing , Brunette Eric , Ly Dao , Fang Hung , Bultinck Jennyfer , Geysens Steven , Pynaert Gwenda , Piens Kathleen , Ryckaert Stefan , Fudalej Franck , Vervecken Wouter , Stanimirovic Danica
Published: November 2024

Background
Iduronate-2-sulfatase (IDS) deficiency (MPS II; Hunter syndrome) is a disorder that exhibits peripheral and CNS pathology. The blood brain barrier (BBB) prevents systemic enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) from alleviating CNS pathology. We aimed to enable brain delivery of systemic ERT by using molecular BBB-Trojans targeting endothelial transcytosis receptors. Methods: Single-domain antibody (sdAb)-enzyme fusion protein constructs were prepared in Yarrowia lipolytica. sdAb affinity and BBB permeability were characterized using SPR and an in vitro rodent BBB assay, respectively. In vivo PK analysis was performed in rats. Quantification of fusion protein amounts were performed using LC-MS.
Results
Fusion proteins consisting of IDS and BBB-transmigrating sdAbs, albumin binding sdAbs or human serum albumin (HSA) were evaluated for their in vitro BBB permeability. IGF1R3H5-IDS was selected for in vivo pharmacokinetics (PK) analysis in rats. IDS and IGF1R3H5-IDS exhibited very short (< 10 min) serum half-life (t1/2α), while constructs containing either HSA or anti-serum albumin sdAbs (R28 or M79) showed 8–11 fold increases in the area under the curve (AUC) in serum. CSF analysis indicated that IGF1R3H5 increased brain exposure by 9 fold (AUC) and constructs containing HSA or R28 exhibited 42–52 fold increases. Quantitation of brain levels confirmed the increased and sustained delivery of IDS to the brain of HSA- and R28-containing constructs. Lastly, analysis of brain fractions demonstrated that the increases in brain tissue were due to parenchymal delivery without fusion protein accumulation in brain vessels.
Conclusions
These results demonstrate the utility of IGF1R-targeting sdAbs to effect brain delivery of lysosomal enzymes, as well as the utility of serum albumin-targeting sdAbs in t1/2 extension, to increase brain delivery of rapidly cleared enzymes.
Sustainable steel-concrete composite beams with novel demountable shear connections under positive bending moments: Experimental behavior and analytical model
Authors: Xiong Liquan , Liu Yuoguo , Li Song , Li Yajuan , Wang Xinyong , Tang Daomin , Chen Xiaojian
Published: November 2024

Sustainable structures or structural components as one of the frontiers in civil engineering can solve the problem of construction and demolition waste and also enhance the reuse of structural components at the end of their service life or after damage. In terms of sustainable assessment, steel-concrete composite beams with or without novel demountable shear connectors were performed in this work. Structural configuration and mechanical properties of proposed sustainable steel-concrete composite beams were firstly presented and then the nonlinear analysis of this composite beams using the Abaqus software was validated. Three specimens with different types of shear connectors were designed and tested under two-point loading to investigate the flexural behavior and deconstructability. Results from this research showed that these composite beams exhibited a flexure-shear or flexural behavior, presenting the typical failure modes of yielding of steel beam, slab concrete split or concrete crushing of plug. Compared to that of traditional composite beam with embedded welded bolts, specimens with demountable shear bolts and demountable shear connections experienced reduced initial flexural stiffness (about 29.8% and 37.2%), yield strength (by about 18.3% and 32.1%) and ultimate strength (about 12.9% and 24.9%) due to the relative slip between the steel beam and precast concrete slab, respectively. Whereas these of composite beams developed a better deformation capacity and ductility coefficient. Additionally, sustainable steel-concrete composite beam with demountable shear connections could easily allow for easy installment and disassemble to achieve the recycle of these structural members and also replacement with new plugs to permit a quick seismic rehabilitation after earthquake damage. Finally, some suggestions of this sustainable composite beam and demountable shear connections were proposed to provide references for the design in practice.
Inhibition of LOX-1 ameliorates coagulation and inflammation in sepsis by suppressing the JAK2/STAT3 pathway
Authors: Wang Ying , Zhang Rongrong , Zhou Chen , Huang Yueyue , Zhou Aiming , Luo Shuang , Liang Chenglong , Pan Jingye
Published: November 2024

Lectin-like oxidised low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) is a transmembrane protein that belongs to the C-type lectin family and plays a significant role in various diseases by promoting the release of inflammatory mediators and enhancing cellular responses to oxidative stress. Studies have demonstrated that in sepsis, activation of LOX-1 promotes a procoagulant phenotype in endothelial cells. The aim of this study was to investigate whether inhibition of LOX-1 could ameliorate coagulation dysfunction and the inflammatory response in sepsis by modulating the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. We utilized LPS-induced C57BL/6 mice to establish an in vivo animal model and assessed the activity of the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway, along with coagulation-related factors and inflammatory factors.In the in vitro experiments, human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were exposed to LPS after either LOX-1 knockdown or no treatment. We subsequently measured the expression of tissue factor (TF) and inflammatory factors, as well as changes in the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway. The results indicated that LOX-1 blockade improved coagulation dysfunction and the inflammatory response, leading to enhanced survival in septic mice. In vitro, LOX-1 knockdown suppressed the expression of TF and inflammatory factors in LPS-induced HUVECs. Both in vivo and in vitro experiments confirmed that inhibition of LOX-1 ameliorated sepsis by suppressing the JAK2/STAT3 signaling pathway.
IntroductionInvestigating the educational needs of mothers to prevent the occurrence of contractures in burned children
Authors: Alipour Negar Abdul , Roshan FatemehSadat SeyedNematollah , Sahbaei Faezeh
Published: November 2024

Background: Burns in children are one of the most common injuries and often cause appearance changes, contractures, disturbances in the normal movements of joints, social isolation, and depression. Since mothers, as the main caregivers, have a unique and essential role in providing physical care and also improving psychosocial functioning, follow-up treatment, and taking care of the complications of burns in their children, the present study aims to investigate the educational needs of mothers of children with burns to prevent contracture.
Methods: This descriptive-cross-sectional study was conducted in Motahhari Burn Center from January to September 2024. 150 mothers of burned children were selected through convenient sampling. The data collection tool included a demographic information questionnaire and a 40-item questionnaire to assess the educational needs of mothers. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26 software.
Results: Educational need in the cause and predisposing factors of contracture in the dimensions of not doing physical therapy (3.22), motivational and spiritual factors (3.02), not using anti-scar devices (3.22), and financial problems (3.06) were at an average level. Also, mothers' educational needs in the care and prevention field in the nutrition dimension (3.77) were at a medium level. In the dimensions of wound care (2.95), proper dressing (2.85), positioning of burned limbs (2.88), and physical therapy (2.64), the use of anti-scar devices (2.87), and mobility and activity (2.87) were at a high level. 44% of mothers in the contracture causes section, 47.4% in the burn care, and 62.6% in the prevention of contracture section had a severe educational need. No correlation was observed between demographic variables and the educational needs of mothers in the mentioned three sections (p ≥ 0.05).
Conclusions: Mothers have a high educational need regarding the prevention of contracture in children with burns, and to provide proper care from mother to child, the educational needs of mothers must be met. Considering that no meaningful relationship was found between demographic information such as mother's and father's occupation and academic level, it can be concluded that education should be given the same for all parents regardless of academic level and occupation.
Effect of Liquid Density, Ultrasonic Velocity, and Gas Flow Rate on the Formation of Air Bubbles in Aqueous Methanol at Temperature 293.15K, 303.15K & 313.15 K
Authors: Mall P. K. , Paliwal H. K. , Medhavi Amit , Kumar Shailendra
Published: November 2024

The current study describes a numerical and experimental study on the formation, growth, and detachment of gas bubbles in aqueous methanol. The process of bubble formation and growth is significant in many industrial applications where gas bubbles disperse within a liquid medium. Experimental measurements of fluid properties, such as density and ultrasonic velocity, of aqueous methanol were conducted over a range of concentrations (0 to 1) and at temperatures of 293.15 K, 303.15 K, and 313.15 K under atmospheric pressure. The study focuses on experimentally analyzing the bubble size distribution (BSD) within a bubble column. The study examines the effects of air flow rate, density, and ultrasonic velocity on bubble diameter in an aqueous methanol solution. As the air flow rate increases from 3 L/min to 4 L/min, bubble diameter consistently increases, with higher densities also contributing to larger bubbles. At a density of 7914 kg/m³, the bubble diameter increases from 0.0048 mm to 0.0054 mm, and at 9981 kg/m³, it rises from 0.0075 mm to 0.0086 mm.Higher ultrasonic velocities similarly result in larger bubbles. At a flow rate of 3 L/min, bubble diameter increases from 0.0046 mm at 1052.5 m/s to 0.0074 mm at 9222 m/s. The findings indicate that an increase in ultrasonic velocity flow rate and an increase in liquid density lead to larger bubble sizes before detachment.
Online personalized normative feedback to foster intention to change and treatment- seeking in pathological gamblers and investors: protocol for a randomized controlled trial among young adults
Authors: Coloma-Carmona Ainhoa , Carballo José Luis , Miró-Llinares Fernando , Pérez-Jover Virtudes
Published: November 2024

Background: Despite the availability of treatment options, the percentage of individuals with gambling problems seeking help remains low. To reach a broader population of those affected by disordered gambling, online or self-guided interventions have been developed, with personalized normative feedback (PNF) being one of the most widely used strategies in preventing gambling issues among young adults. However, most studies on the efficacy of PNF focus only on its impact on the intensity and severity of gambling behavior, without exploring its potential effect on increasing intention to change and help-seeking behaviors. Furthermore, no studies have assessed the efficacy of PNF in addressing emerging online gambling-like behaviors, such as betting within video games or excessive financial trading of high-risk assets (e.g., cryptocurrencies), which have been linked to pathological gambling.
Method/Design:This project has two main objectives: (1) to quantify intention to change and the prevalence of help-seeking behaviors in young adults in Spain with disordered gambling or trading behaviors, and (2) to assess the efficacy of online personalized normative feedback (PNF) in increasing these behaviors. A randomized controlled trial with a Solomon three-group design will be conducted, including a sample of at least 472 men and women aged 18-30 years. The study will include three assessments: a pre-test, an immediate post-test, and a 12-week follow-up assessment. The intervention will consist of online PNF, delivered to participants in two intervention groups. The impact of PNF on gambling and trading behavior (including intensity, frequency, and severity) and the longitudinal trajectory of these behaviors will be also evaluated. Additionally, individual, interpersonal, and contextual factors will be assessed to identify the profile of individuals most likely to benefit from this intervention.
Discussion: This study is innovative in evaluating the efficacy of online PNF in promoting behavior change and help-seeking in young adults with gambling and trading disorders. The findings will offer valuable insights into the psychological and social impacts of these behaviors, informing future prevention and treatment strategies.
Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT06681103; Date of Registration: November 7, 2024.
Evaluation of an artificial intelligence model for identification of obstructive hydrocephalus on computed tomography of the head
Authors: Hillis James , Ghatak Ankita , Newbury-Chaet Isabella , Mercaldo Sarah , Chin John , Halle Madeleine , L'Italien Eric , MacDonald Ashley , Schultz Alex , Buch Karen , Conklin John , Mehan William , Pomerantz Stuart , Rincon Sandra , Bizzo Bernardo
Published: November 2024

Introduction:
Obstructive hydrocephalus is a critical radiographic finding requiring emergent treatment. Its identification on head computed tomography (CT) by an artificial intelligence (AI) model could facilitate sooner life-saving interventions, although there are common co-occurring findings including intracranial hemorrhage that can confound this interpretation. This study assessed the accuracy of an AI model (Annalise Enterprise CTB) at identifying obstructive hydrocephalus including in the presence or absence of other findings.
Methods
This retrospective cohort included 177 thin (≤ 1.5mm) series and 194 thick (> 1.5 and ≤ 5mm) series from 200 non-contrast head CT cases. These cases were obtained from patients aged ≥ 18 years at 5 hospitals in the United States. Each case was interpreted independently by up to three neuroradiologists. Each series was then interpreted by the AI model.
Results
The AI model performed with area under the curve 0.988 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.971 to 0.998) on thin series and 0.986 (95% CI: 0.969 to 0.997) on thick series. These results were broadly maintained in subgroups for the presence or absence of intracranial hemorrhage, parenchymal abnormality and ventricular drain, and across demographic and scanner manufacturer subgroups.
Conclusions
The AI model accurately identified obstructive hydrocephalus in this dataset. Its performance in subgroup analyses reflected its robustness.
Thalamocortical Hodology to Personalize Electrical Stimulation for Focal Epilepsy
Authors: Gonzalez-Martinez Jorge , Damiani Arianna , Nouduri Sirisha , Ho Jonathan , Salazar Steven , Jegou Aude , Reedy Eliza , Ikegaya Naoki , Sarma Sridevi , Aung Thandar , Pirondini Elvira
Published: November 2024

Targeted electrical stimulation to specific thalamic regions offers a therapeutic approach for patients with refractory focal and generalized epilepsy who are not candidates for resective surgery. However, clinical outcome varies significantly, in particular for focal epilepsy, influenced by several factors, notably the precise anatomical and functional alignment between cortical regions generating epileptic discharges and the targeted thalamic stimulation sites. Here we hypothesized that targeting thalamic nuclei with precise anatomical and functional connections to epileptic cortical areas (an approach that we refer to as hodological matching) could enhance neuromodulatory effects on focal epileptic discharges. To investigate this, we examined three thalamic subnuclei (pulvinar nucleus, anterior nucleus, and ventral intermediate nucleus/ventral oral posterior nuclei) in a retrospective study involving 32 focal epilepsy patients. Specifically, we first identified hodologically organized thalamocortical fibers connecting these nuclei to individual seizure onset zones (SOZs), combining neuroimaging and electrophysiological techniques. Further, analysis of 216 spontaneous seizures revealed the critical role of matched thalamic nuclei in seizure development and termination. Importantly, electrical stimulation of hodologically-matched thalamic nuclei immediately suppressed intracortical interictal epileptiform discharges, contrasting with ineffective outcomes from stimulation of unmatched targets. Finally, we retrospectively evaluated 7 patients with a chronic hodologically-matched neurostimulation system, which led to a clinically relevant reduction in seizure frequency (median reduction 86.5%), that outstands the current clinical practice of unmatched targets (39%). Our results underscore the potential of hodological thalamic targeting to modulate epileptiform activity in specific cortical regions, highlighting the promise of precision medicine in thalamic neuromodulation for focal refractory epilepsy.
Demonstrating the value for money of implementing evidence-based treatment: the case for further investment in magnesium sulphate as a neuroprotectant for preterm births
Authors: Sillero-Rejon Carlos , Edwards Hannah B , Opmeer Brent C. , Hollingworth William , Pithara-McKeown Christalla , de Vocht Frank , Redwood Sabi , Odd David , Luyt Karen , McLeod Hugh
Published: November 2024

Background:
Effective and cost-effective treatments are not always optimally implemented. The benefit forgone due to sub-optimal implementation is often not considered or estimated. We use the economic concept of ‘incremental net monetary benefit’ (INMB) to demonstrate how this can be valued. This approach can inform decision-making when used to estimate the value for money of potential future quality improvement (QI) programmes. We illustrate these analyses using the case of antenatal magnesium sulphate (MgSO4), a cost-effective treatment for the prevention of cerebral palsy in preterm births. We estimate the optimal implementation of MgSO4, the INMB lost due to sub-optimal implementation, and the value of future implementation initiatives to increase the use of MgSO4.
Methods:
We estimated MgSO4 treatment implementation for babies under 32 weeks’ gestation using routine data on its uptake between 2014 and 2022 in England, Scotland, and Wales. The optimal uptake level of MgSO4 was estimated using clinical judgment. The societal lifetime INMB of MgSO4 for the prevention of cerebral palsy in preterm births was obtained from the literature. The INMB of sub-optimal implementation over time was estimated as the difference between optimal and actual uptake over time in each country. We estimated the cost-effectiveness of a hypothetical future QI programme based on different scenarios of implementation effectiveness and costs.
Results:
The optimal uptake of MgSO4 was 95%. The INMB forgone associated with sub-optimal MgSO4 uptake has reduced over time, as uptake has increased. However, in 2022, the societal lifetime INMB forgone was still £18.2m in England, £3.7m in Scotland, and £1.0m in Wales. A future QI programme across all three countries achieving a 5% increase in MgSO4 uptake over one year, and costing £987,500 to implement, would be cost-effective; generating £7.5m in INMB. Future implementation initiatives are likely to be cost-effective within a range of different implementation effectiveness and costs.
Conclusions:
The case of MgSO4 treatment for preterm birth illustrates how sub-optimal implementation of evidence-based interventions can be associated with high opportunity costs measured as INMB forgone. This approach provides valuable quantification of the value for money of future QI programmes to improve the implementation of these interventions.
WITHDRAWN: Algorithm Development for Measuring CDOM and Secchi from Hue Angle Using Satellite Images: A Study in Lake Peipsi, Estonia
Authors: Rahman Mizanur , Alikas Krista , Ansper-Toomsalu Ave , Aunap Raivo
Published: November 2024

Depending on the illumination condition and water composition, watercolor differs from one water source to another around the globe. The In-situ-based water monitoring systems are traditionally expensive, time-consuming, and sometimes limited because of extreme weather events. It also doesn't reflect the CDOM and Secchi of the whole waterbody because of limited data collection stations in the large waterbody. However, for optically complex water like Lake Peipsi, it is important to monitor water quality parameters like Secchi and CDOM spatially and regularly. Remote sensing could allow monitoring lakes on a large scale with the possibility of frequently getting information from non-accessible water bodies. Sentinel-3 OLCI has a high temporal, spectral, and spatial resolution for estimating water quality parameters. This study developed an algorithm to compare in-situ data and satellite data to calculate the Hue angle to investigate the relationship between the color of the water and water quality parameters such as CDOM and water transparency. The relations are expressed in the quadratic equation to calculate CDOM and Secchi. This study found the equation for CDOM is y = 21.7 - 0.647x + 0.00521x² and Secchi depth y= 0.638 + 0.0183x + 0.000346x² with the correlation values 0.67 and 0.52, respectively. To develop the algorithm, this study considered various meteorological and environmental parameters such as Cloudiness, sun, wave height, and wind speed collected from 2016 to 2022 from 23 stations in Peipsi and also validated the result using the in-situ data collected from the same stations from May to September 2023. This study found a CDOM ranging from 1.618 to 8.822 m⁻¹ and a Secchi depth ranging from 0.031 to 2.097 m. The study shows promising results for using remote sensing hue angle to estimate water quality parameters in the optically complex Lake Peipsi.
Inclusivity of Indigenous Knowledge Systems in Fisheries Management
Authors: Moffat Keshia , Snook Jamie , Paul Kenneth , Frid Alejandro
Published: November 2024

Indigenous Peoples have developed knowledge systems that foster respectful and reciprocal relations between human and other-than-human beings, supporting resilient ecosystems and societies. Despite the impacts of colonization, Indigenous Knowledge Systems (IKS) endure in many parts of the world and there is growing recognition that IKS can strongly improve fisheries management. During the last five years, Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO), the federal institution responsible for managing Canada's fisheries, released policies and strategies intended to make fisheries management more inclusive of IKS. To measure progress in their implementation, we applied 13 semiquantitative indicators and qualitative analyses of IKS inclusivity to a sample of 88 public documents produced or co-produced by DFO to advise management decisions. Of these documents, ≈ 89% did not meaningfully include IKS in the research processes and outcomes that they reported, while 10% showed a range of limited IKS inclusion in scientific processes initiated and driven by DFO. In the latter cases, IKS appeared to be considered as an afterthought or in ways that served a pre-determined scientific methodology. Only one advice document balanced the complementary strengths of IKS and science. The indicators that we developed in a Canadian context can be used, with locally appropriate revisions, to gauge the extent to which state governments in other countries are inclusive of IKS in fisheries management, thereby identifying shortcomings in law, policy, and practice and informing mitigation measures. Strengthening the inclusivity of IKS would enable more holistic approaches to fisheries management and benefit global conservation.
Deep Learning Technology for Classification of Thyroid Nodules Using Multi-view Ultrasound Images: Potential Benefits and Challenges in Clinical Application
Authors: Kim Jinyoung , Kim Min-Hee , Lim Dong-Jun , Lee Hankyeol , Lee Jae Jun , Kwon Hyuk-Sang , Kim Mee Kyoung , Song Ki-Ho , Kim Tae-Jung , Jung So Lyung , Lee Yong Oh , Baek Ki-Hyun
Published: November 2024

Background: This study aimed to evaluate the applicability of deep learning technology to thyroid ultrasound images for classification of thyroid nodules.
Methods: This retrospective analysis included ultrasound images of patients with thyroid nodules investigated by fine-needle aspiration (FNA) at the thyroid clinic of a single center from April 2010 to September 2012. Thyroid nodules with cytopathologic results of Bethesda category V (suspicious for malignancy) or VI (malignant) were defined as thyroid cancer. Multiple deep learning algorithms based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) – ResNet, DenseNet, and EfficientNet – were utilized, and Siamese neural networks facilitated multi-view analysis of paired transverse and longitudinal ultrasound images.
Results: Among 1,048 analyzed thyroid nodules from 943 patients, 306 (29%) were identified as thyroid cancer. In a subgroup analysis of transverse and longitudinal images, longitudinal images showed superior prediction ability. Multi-view modeling, based on paired transverse and longitudinal images, significantly improved the model performance; with an accuracy of 0.82 (95% confidence intervals [CI] 0.80-0.86) with ResNet50, 0.83 (95% CI, 0.83-0.88) with DenseNet201, and 0.81 (95% CI, 0.79-0.84) with EfficientNetv2_s. Training with high-resolution images obtained using the latest equipment tended to improve model performance in association with increased sensitivity.
Conclusion: CNN algorithms applied to ultrasound images demonstrated substantial accuracy in thyroid nodule classification, indicating their potential as valuable tools for diagnosing thyroid cancer. However, in real-world clinical settings, it is important to aware that model performance may vary depending on the quality of images acquired by different physicians and imaging devices.
Metabolomic and lipidomic profiling for pre-transplant assessment of delayed graft function risk using chemical biopsy with microextraction probes
Authors: Warmuzińska Natalia , Łuczykowski Kamil , Stryjak Iga , Wojtal Emilia , Woderska-Jasińska Aleksandra , Masztalerz Marek , Włodarczyk Zbigniew , Bojko Barbara
Published: November 2024

Organ shortage remains a significant challenge in transplantology, prompting efforts to maximize the use of available organs and expand the donor pool, including through extended criteria donors (ECD). However, ECD kidney recipients often face poorer outcomes, including a higher incidence of delayed graft function (DGF), which is linked to worse graft performance, reduced long-term survival, and increased need for interventions like dialysis. This underscores the urgent need for strategies to improve early DGF risk assessment and optimize post-transplant management for high-risk patients. This study conducted multi-time point metabolomic and lipidomic analyses of donor kidney tissue and recipient plasma to identify compounds predicting DGF risk and assess the translational potential of solid-phase microextraction (SPME) for graft evaluation and early complication detection. SPME-based chemical biopsy enabled direct kidney analysis, while thin-film microextraction facilitated high-throughput plasma preparation. Following high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry analysis, the Random Forest algorithm was applied to identify compounds with predictive potential for assessing DGF risk before transplantation. Additionally, a comparison of metabolomic and lipidomic profiles of recipient plasma during the early post-operative days identified metabolites that distinguish between DGF and non-DGF patients. The selected compounds primarily included amino acids and their derivatives, nucleotides, organic acids, peptides, and lipids, particularly phospholipids and triacylglycerols. In conclusion, this study highlights the significant translational potential of chemical biopsy and plasma metabolite analysis for risk assessment and non-invasive monitoring of DGF. The identified metabolites provide a foundation for developing a comprehensive DGF assessment and monitoring method, with potential integration into routine clinical practice.
Avatare als Verkörperungen im virtuellen Raum
Authors: Misoch Sabina
Published: November 2024

Eine Form der Nutzer(re)präsentation im körperlosen Raum des Internets ist das Verkörpern mittels dreidimensionaler visueller Stellvertreter, sogenannter Avatare. Im Folgenden werden Ergebnisse einer explorativen Studie vorgestellt, die die Nutzerverkörperung mittels virtueller Stellvertreter in Second Life mit der qualitativen Methode der typisierenden Strukturierung analysiert hat. Es zeigte sich eine deutliche Tendenz zur Verkörperung mittels menschlicher und eindeutig geschlechtlich identifizierbarer Stellvertreter. Des Weiteren reproduzieren sich mediale Schönheitsideale und Stereotypen im Virtuellen. Die Verkörperungen orientieren sich an kulturell geprägten Idealtypen von Weiblichkeit und Männlichkeit.
Durchaus von dieser Welt
Authors: Funiok Rüdiger
Published: November 2024

14 Interviews mit Jesuiten zwischen 30 und 83 Jahren ergaben: Ältere lesen Qualitätszeitungen gleichzeitig. Für Informationen aus dem Heimatland werden vor allem von den Jüngeren Online-Zeitungen bevorzugt. Beachtliche Wertschätzung gilt dem künstlerischen Film. Bei der Nutzung alter und neuer Medien erweisen sich fachliches Expertentum, ausgeprägte religiös-kirchliche Interessen und die internationale Herkunft (Sprachkenntnisse) als Selektionsfaktoren. Im Sinne von Anschlusskommunikation bedeutsam sind außerdem persönliche Gespräche.
Pop, Jugend
Authors: Wagner Dirk
Published: November 2024

Jugendliche und Musik gehören schon immer zusammen. Ob sie gerade die Beatles anhimmeln oder Tokio Hotel, ob sie zu Volksmusik hüpfen oder zu Techno dancen, ob sie vor dem Schallplattenspieler, mit dem Discman oder online in ihrer Musik schwelgen – stets diente und dient Musik zur Abgrenzung, Identitätsf indung oder als Freizeitbeschäftigung. Und stets spiegelt sie Lebensgefühl, Probleme und Wünsche ‚ihrer‘ Generation.
Exzessiv-User: Nutzungstypen der Social Networking Plattform festzeit.ch
Authors: Steiner Olivier , Deiss Jasmin
Published: November 2024

Ein Befragung unter 487 Nutzerinnen und Nutzern der Social Networking Plattform festzeit.ch bringt auffallende Ergebnisse hervor: Es ist eine so hohe durchschnittliche Nutzungsintensität zu verzeichnen, dass es nötig scheint, einen Nutzungstyp „Exzessiv-Userin“ bzw. „Exzessiv-User“ in die Diskussion einzuführen. Dieser lässt sich in seinem Verhalten, aber auch in vielen anderen Faktoren klar abgrenzen und sollte deshalb stärker in den Fokus der Forschung genommen werden.
stichwort QR-Code
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: November 2024

Ein QR-Code ist eine zweidimensionale grafische Verschlüsselung einer in der Regel textlichenInformation. Texte, Kontaktdaten, Links ins Internet, Fahrschein-Angaben oder Rabatt-Gutschein-Nummern können in eine Grafik umgewandelt werden, die mit Hilfe eines auf dem Mobiltelefoninstallierten Programms über die Handy-Fotolinse ausgelesen und übersetzt wird. Viele Bahnkunden kennen diese grafische Codierung von ihrem Online-Ticket. Entgegen einem Strich-Barcode können QR-Codes wesentlich mehr Informationen aufnehmen und sind fehlertolerant.Interessant ist die Verknüpfungsmöglichkeit von physischen Printprodukten mit Inhalten im Internet. Im deutschsprachigen Raum experimentieren die Zeitung Welt kompakt und das Magazin Chip mit den Möglichkeiten, in Asien sind die gedruckten Anwendungen massiv verbreitet.
Neu ist der Einsatz von QR-Codes auf Werbeplakaten, bei Kinopostern ist meist eine Verknüpfung mit einem Video-Trailer kodiert. Auch die Graffiti-Szene nutzt die Grafiken, um sie auf Papier legal zu verkleben; Aufkleber oder Flyer erweitern so ihre Aktualität und Informationsdichte. Ideen für eine pädagogische Nutzung dieser Technik wären über die bereits aufgeführten Inspirationen hinaus etwa Spielaktionen, Stadt- und Museumsführungen oder Textildesigns. Die notwendigen Handys sind bei fast allen Jugendlichen vorhanden und damit ist eine Jugendmedien kompatible Ansprache möglich.
Strategisch geplante Sozialisation
Authors: Altmeppen Klaus-Dieter
Published: November 2024

Wie sehen die Strukturen der Unterhaltungsbeschaffung und -produktion aus? Unterhaltungsproduktion ist ein Teil des Kommunikationsprozesses und daher mit der Nutzung von und der Sozialisation durch Medien eng verknüpft. Der Bereich wird in die Kulturwirtschaft eingeordnet, bevor schwerpunktmäßig die Organisation und das Management der Beschaffung und Produktion von Unterhaltung analysiert werden.
GameStat 2010
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: November 2024

Die Repräsentativstudie GameStat zur Nutzung von Computer- und Videospielen in Deutschland wurde erstmals im Sommer 2010 von der Universität Hohenheim durchgeführt und soll künftig in jährlichen Abständen Daten zum Stand des digitalen Spielens in Deutschland erheben. 2010 wurden 4.506 Personen ab 14 Jahren mittels computergestützter Telefoninterviews zu unterschiedlichen Formen des digitalen Spielens befragt. Erste Ergebnisse zeigen, dass digitale Spiele – gleich welcher Plattform oder Art – inzwischen ein Unterhaltungsangebot für Millionen sind. Rund ein Viertel der Bevölkerung ab 14 Jahren beschäftigt sich heute mit Computer- und Konsolenspielen. Neben klassischen Solo-Spielen sind auch soziale Spielformen, bei denen menschliche Interaktionen der Spielpartnerinnen und -partner im Mittelpunkt stehen, sehr beliebt, dies bestätigen mehr als zwei Drittel der Befragten.
Auch das gemeinsame Spielen an nur einem Gerät, das „co-located gaming“ erfreut sich großer Beliebtheit. Diese Form des Spielens liegt klar vor den Online-Spielen, mit einer Zustimmung bei mehr als 50 Prozent der befragten Teilnehmerinnen und Teilnehmer. Nur knapp ein Drittel der Befragten gibt an, alleine über das Netz zu spielen. Schlussfolgernd ist das Solo-Spielen gewissermaßen die „Basis“ des Computerspielens, weitere Nutzungsformen ergänzen sich entsprechend der individuellen Vorlieben. Die Studie belegt weiter, dass digitale Spiele nicht mehr ausschließlich eine Freizeitbeschäftigung junger Männer sind. Der Spieleranteil liegt bei 30 Prozent. Bei den Frauen ist der Nutzeranteil mit 19 Prozent noch niedriger, dennoch holen die Spielerinnen auf. Die Studie zeigt auch, dass das verbreitete Vorurteil des ‚spielenden Minderjährigen‘ längst überholt ist. Zwar nimmt der Anteil der Spielenden mit zunehmendem Alter deutlich ab, doch bis zum Alter von 50 Jahren spielen mehr als ein Viertel der Befragten Computer- oder Videogames. Bei den Rentnern liegt sie dann nur noch unter zehn Prozent. Die 14- bis 17-Jährigen bilden mit 60 Prozent und die 18- bis 29-Jährigen mit 50 Prozent die größten Gruppen. Faktoren wie Bildung und Einkommen scheinen auf Basis der vorliegenden Daten kaum relevant zu sein – was der öffentlichen Debatte widerspricht.
Alle Ergebnisse der GameStat2010 gibt es unter:www.pressetext.de
„Wie lange darf mein Kind jetzt eigentlich fernsehen?“
Authors: Anfang Günther
Published: November 2024

Mit dieser Frage wird man häufig auf Elternabenden zum Medienumgang von Kindern und Jugendlichen konfrontiert. Die Meinungen gehen da sehr auseinander. Während ein Teil der Eltern das Fernsehen am liebsten vollkommen verbieten würde, ist der andere Teil ziemlich verunsichert, da man ja immer wieder hört, dass zu viel Fernsehen schädlich ist. Wieder andere sind davon überzeugt, dass vor allem die hektischen Schnitte dafür verantwortlich sind, dass sich unsere Kinder nicht mehr konzentrieren können. „Ich hab da mal einen Artikel eines Hirnforschers gelesen, der nachweist, dass die schnellen Schnitte das Hirn der Kinder nachhaltig schädigen.“ Solche und ähnliche Sätze bekommt man immer wieder zu hören, wenn man in Sachen Elternabend zum Thema Medien unterwegs ist. In der Regel wird man dafür von einem besorgten Mitglied des Elternbeirats engagiert, mit dem Hinweis, dass das Thema Medien an der Schule gerade intensiv diskutiert wird und deshalb der Rat eines Experten hinzugezogen werden sollte.
Auf die Frage wie viele Eltern denn erwartet werden, bekommt man dann häufig die ausweichende Antwort: „ Also ziemlich viele. Wir machen den Elternabend auf alle Fälle in der großen Aula.“ Am Elternabend selbst sieht es dann leider häufig sehr ernüchternd aus. Zwar ist die große Aula bestuhlt, doch weist die Art der Bestuhlung schon einmal darauf hin, dass nicht so viele Eltern kommen werden wie erwartet. „Ja, leider haben schon einige Eltern abgesagt, da sie einen anderen Termin haben. Und heute Abend ist ja auch noch das Fußballspiel im Fernsehen.“ Nun gut, dann werden es halt wieder die üblichen zehn bis 15 Eltern, die eigentlich schon alles wissen und nur noch kommen, um Bestätigung zu erfahren. Sie wissen jedenfalls, wie viel Fernsehen sein darf, nur bei den Computerspielen sind sie häufig noch ratlos. „Mein Sohn ist in letzter Zeit nicht mehr von diesen Spielen wegzubringen. Ist er schon computersüchtig?“ Hier beginnt in der Regel eine heftige Diskussion über Sucht und Suchtgefahren, doch stellt sich schnell heraus, dass das exzessive Spielen eine vorübergehende Erscheinung ist, von Sucht noch sehr weit entfernt. Ein weiteres Thema sind natürlich auch die ‚Killerspiele‘.
Zwar sind alle Eltern davon überzeugt, dass ihr Kind durch die Spiele nicht zum Killer wird, aber über Wirkungen lässt sich trotzdem trefflich streiten. Und: „Ich hab da mal einen Artikel gelesen ...“. Dies gipfelt dann nur noch in der Aussage eines Elternteils oder einer Lehrkraft, dass die Kinder heutzutage viel aggressiver sind und noch zutreten, wenn ein Kind schon am Boden liegt. Spätestens dann ist für viele bestätigt, dass die Medien die Ursache allen Übels sind. Am Ende des Elternabends ist man sich jedenfalls einig, dass es gut war, sich mit den Problemen des Medienumgangs der Kinder auseinandergesetzt zu haben. Und man ist sich sicher, Erziehungsrezepte für diejenigen gewonnen zu haben, die nicht da waren.
Informationsverhalten von Kindern im Internet
Authors: Pläsken Cornelia
Published: November 2024

Die im November des vergangenen Jahres vorgestellten Ergebnisse der DJI-Studie Informationsverhalten von Kindern im Internet wurden nun teilweise veröffentlicht. Christine Feil und Alexander Grobbin formulierten die quantitativen Ergebnisse zur Nutzung von Kindersuchmaschinen. Grundlage dieser Studie sind 600.000 Logfiles von sechs- bis 13-Jährigen Kindern der drei Kindersuchmaschinen Blinde Kuh, fragFINN und Helles Köpfchen, die sowohl während der Schulzeit als auch der Ferienzeit aufgezeichnet wurden. Dabei kam heraus, dass sich die Kinder selbst besser mit den speziell für sie entwickelten Suchmaschinen auskennen als ihre Eltern. Problematisch war die Rechtsschreibung der Kinder.
Suchanfragen konnten teilweise nicht beantwortet werden aufgrund von fehlerhafter Schreibweise. Die meistgesuchten Wörter der Seiten waren „Spiele“, „Hund“ und „Sex“. Direkte Rückschlüsse auf das erwartete Suchergebnis kann man durch diese Suchbegriffe allerdings nicht ziehen, da die Wörter manchmal ein Teilstück eines anderen Wortes sind. Während der Schulzeit nutzen Kinder die Suchmaschinen um ein Vielfaches häufiger und infomationsorientierter, als in den Ferien. Bei den Recherchen werden meistens nur einzelne Suchbegriffe verwendet. Circa 60 Prozent beenden ihre Suche nach dem ersten Versuch wieder, was man auf erfolgreiche Resultate zurückführen kann. Die Regeln des Suchens, die den Kindern als Hilfestellung angeboten werden, finden kaum praktische Anwendung.
www.dji.de/www-kinderseiten/898/Feil_Grobbin_Logfile-Bericht_1.pdf