bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategies for Strengthening Character Education Through the Integration of Islamic Values: The Role of Teachers as Role Models in the Context of Contextual Learning
Authors: Safitri Sevia Diana
Published: September 2024

This research focuses on the integration of character values in the Islamic Religious Education curriculum and the role of teachers as exemplary models in shaping students' character. The purpose of this study is to explore how contextual teaching approaches and consistency of teacher behavior can affect the internalization of character values by students at Nurul Jadid Junior High School. This study uses a qualitative approach with a case study method, where data is collected through in-depth interviews, participatory observations, and document analysis. The collected data was analyzed using an interactive model from Miles and Huberman, which included the stages of data reduction, data presentation, and conclusion drawn/verification. The results of the study show that the integration of character values such as honesty, responsibility, tolerance, and cooperation in the curriculum, as well as the role of teachers as role models, is very effective in shaping students' character. The implications of this study confirm the importance of developing contextual teaching methods and consistency of teacher behavior to support more effective character education. This research makes a significant contribution to the literature on character education, especially in the context of Islamic Religious Education.
Kiai Leadership Patterns in The Modernization of Boarding School Management
Authors: Khamid Nur
Published: September 2024

This study explores the leadership patterns of kiai in the effort to modernize pesantren management, with the aim of understanding how kiai leadership can combine traditional values with the demands of modern management. The main focus of this study is to identify the dual role of kiai as spiritual and managerial leaders, and their impact on the operational effectiveness of pesantren. Using a qualitative method with a case study approach, data were collected through in-depth interviews and observations in several pesantren that have implemented modern management principles. The results of the study indicate that kiai leadership that successfully combines traditional and modern aspects results in more efficient pesantren management without sacrificing the religious values that are the foundation of the institution. In addition, this leadership pattern also strengthens the identity of the pesantren amidst the flow of globalization, maintaining the relevance of the institution while maintaining its uniqueness. These findings indicate that modernizing pesantren management through kiai leadership not only increases operational efficiency but also strengthens the competitiveness and resilience of pesantren in the long term. This study makes an important contribution to understanding how pesantren can adapt to the times without losing their traditional essence, as well as opening up opportunities for further research on the application of modern management in religious-based educational institutions.
Homegrown Biodesign: An Interdisciplinary, Experimental Approach
Authors: Barr Cheryl
Published: September 2024

Biodesign is inherently challenging due to the need to merge scientific and creative thinking, a skill set that many designers and scientists are not fully prepared for. Traditional Biodesign methods are often restricted to academic or lab environments, making practical application difficult and requiring additional training for those from either background. The 'Homegrown Biodesign Approach' introduces a novel framework specifically designed to be independent of specialized equipment and lab settings, making it accessible for use at home. This approach empowers individuals to develop essential Biodesign skills through hands-on experimentation, observation, and reflection, using only the resources available in their personal environments. By emphasizing learning through doing, it provides practical tools to bridge knowledge gaps, cultivate scientific understanding, and visualize innovative outcomes without relying on expensive resources. What sets this approach apart is its focus on the ethical and philosophical implications of working within one’s personal space. It encourages biodesigners to reflect on how their environment and values shape their research and creative process, adding a deeply personal dimension to their work. By making Biodesign more accessible and adaptable to diverse environments, this process, soon to be detailed in an open-access journal like Biodesign Research, offers a fresh perspective on translating research into practical applications for everyday life. The attached figure and text demonstrate how this framework enables interdisciplinary skill development and innovation, allowing participants to explore Biodesign beyond traditional lab settings and empowering them to develop solutions that address real-world challenges, regardless of their resources or background.
“Efficient Complexity”: Evolutionary Perspectives on Natural Intelligence
Authors: Dolgikh Serge
Published: September 2024

A fundamental question in the conjunction of information theory, biophysics, bioinformatics and thermodynamics relates to the principles and process-es that guide and control the development of natural intelligence in natural environments where information about external stimuli may not be available at prior. A novel approach to the challenge of natural learning is proposed in the framework of constrained optimization where maximums of the information fitness of the internal states of the system with the states of external stimuli under the natural constraints of natural learning are associated with optimal learning. The progress of natural intelligence can be interpreted in this framework as a strategy of approximation of the solutions of the optimization problem via a traversal or “hopping” over the extrema network of the objective function, the information fitness under the natural constraints that were examined and described. Nontrivial conclusions on the relationships be-tween the complexity, variability and efficiency of the structure, or architecture of learning models made on the basis of the proposed formalism can ex-plain the effectiveness of neural networks as collaborative groups of small intelligent units in biological and artificial intelligence.
GUI/GOOEY: Re-examining technological translations of the biological world
Authors: Splan Laura
Published: September 2024

“GUI/GOOEY” is a critical examination of technological translations of the biological world. This paper and presentation interrogates design paradigms of biotechnological software, hardware, devices, machines, and their interfaces through a series of interdisciplinary artworks. Scientific tools and technologies have ideologies embedded in their design, code, options, language, and organization. With molecular visualization software tools like PyMOL, Chimera, Paraview, and Blender, we can explore how the tools biodesigners, scientists, and researchers use to represent, study, and manipulate the natural world might have an impact on how we define and imagine it. Using several interdisciplinary Sciart projects created in collaboration with scientists, GUI/GOOEY will unpack everything from drop down menus to naming conventions as a method of media literacy for young biodesigners. “Unraveling” (Splan, 2020) created with PyMOL molecular visualization software, speculates on how color options (i.e. forest) in software might reinforce idealized notions of nature. And it repurposes PyMOL’s “Sculpting Tool” as a performative interaction that embodies a direct tactile manipulation of the molecular world through a graphical user interface. “Baroque Bodies” (Splan, 2022) created with Blender/BioBlender 3D modeling software speculates on how representations of the molecular world can not only represent structure but can also imply function through aesthetic and creative strategies such as materials, lighting, sound, and animation. This visual paper and presentation will use a images, video, and sound from these artworks to present a critical analysis of the impact that technological translations of the biological world can have on agendas, methodologies, and philosophies of disciplines like Biodesign.
Textile omnidirectional antenna for wearable WiFi-7 applications using higher order modes
Authors: Noghanian Sima
Published: September 2024

In WiFi 7 (IEEE 802.11be), Multiple Input Multiple Output (MIMO) technology plays a crucial role in enhancing throughput. This combination enables numerous applications for wearable WiFi devices. For instance, WiFi can be utilized for tracking and fall detection purposes. Additionally, wearable devices used in gaming, vital signal monitoring, and tracking can benefit from the implementation of wearable MIMO antennas. Despite the demand for wearable WiFi antennas, specifically in the new 6 GHz band, a significant gap exists in the investigation of antennas that are completely made of textile, are low profile, and provide vertical polarization and omnidirectional patterns. Addressing this gap, in this paper, a wearable planar antenna is introduced, which is specifically designed to offer an omnidirectional pattern and linear polarization. To ensure its practicality and ease of use, the antenna utilizes lightweight and wearable textile material. The design details and performance of the proposed antenna are presented. The antenna covers all three bands of WiFi, namely, 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz bands. The 10-dB return loss bandwidth is 2.4 GHz–2.5 GHz, and 4.6 GHz–7.2 GHz. The maximum Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) for an input power of 500 mW is calculated at 1.053 W/Kg for a 2 mm air gap between the antenna and tissue surface. The size of the antenna is given by a circular area of π × (50 mm)2, and a thickness of 6 mm.
Status of off-bottom mariculture in wave-exposed environments. Part 1. Global inventory of extractive species commercial farms in temperate waters
Authors: Gagnon Marc
Published: September 2024

There is currently a strong drive to expand aquaculture further offshore co-occurring with a rapid change of the conditions under which this activity will be practiced due to climate change. At the dawn of these profound changes a global review of the current status of technologies used commercially to grow extractive species in wave exposed environments can serve as a benchmark for future developments. Part 1 of this paper presents a systematic inventory of commercial farms in temperate exposed waters. The study area includes 5 regions in the northern hemisphere and 3 regions in the southern hemisphere and covers entirely or part of 48 countries and territories. The inventory is based on 80+ high resolution aquaculture lease maps, most of them available as Internet Web-GIS applications, that cover the entire study area with the exception of a few countries. Exposed sites are first identified from these maps using simple wave fetch criteria and this preselection is then validated using climatological data on wave height and power density (energy flux). The number of sites and the leased area are tallied by region, country, species group and production method. The longline is the production method used in more than 99% of the sites inventoried. Longline design and farm layout in 28 of these sites are reviewed. With a few exceptions, semi-submerged or fully submerged designs are used (in some cases they have been for more than 30 years) while the information on farm layout is patchy. A review of structural damage and loss of cultured biomass due to hydrodynamic forces in commercial and experimental farms confirms that surface and semi-submerged longlines are more vulnerable to large storms than fully-submerged designs.
Disseminated emergomyces orientalis infection in a patient with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Luo Jun , An Na , Liu Yarong , Li Yisheng
Published: September 2024

A case of Eimonosis orientalis was reported in a 52-year-old male farmer who presented with cough, phlegm, fever, headache, and nausea for more than 4 days. Haemophilic cells and fungal spores were identified in the bone marrow smear and confirmed as Aemon orientalis by culture. The same bacteria were also isolated from blood cultures
Changes in the epidemiological patterns of respiratory syncytial virus and human metapneumovirus infection among pediatric patients and their correlation with severe cases: a long-term retrospective study
Authors: Kuang Lu , Xu Tiantian , Wang Changbing , Xie Jiahui , Zhang Yingying , Guo Min , Liang Zhuofu , Zhu Bing
Published: September 2024

Objectives

We aim to investigate the prevalence of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and human metapneumovirus (hMPV) among pediatric patients with acute respiratory tract illness (ARTI) in southern China both pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic, as well as identify associated risk factors for severe infections.

Methods

The study conducted a real-time PCR analysis on hospitalized children with ARTI from 2012 to 2023, specifically targeting RSV, hMPV, and other respiratory pathogens. Additionally, demographic data was collected during this analysis.

Results

The prevalence of RSV occurs triennially, and likewise, the temporal pattern of hMPV outbreaks mirrors that of RSV. The peak infection rates of RSV and hMPV occurred during and following the implementation of COVID-19 epidemic prevention and control measures. The incidence of RSV infection exhibited bimodal peaks in 2022, while hMPV demonstrated seasonal peaks during the spring, fall, and winter periods post-COVID-19 pandemic. After the COVID-19 outbreak, there has been an upward trend in the proportion of female patients and patients aged one year and older presenting with ARTI, RSV infections, and hMPV infections. Infant (OR = 4.767, 95%CI: [3.888–5.846], p < 0.0001), presence of co-infection (OR = 0.540, 95%CI: [0.404–0.722], p < 0.0001), and existence of comorbidities (OR = 1.582, 95%CI: [1.285–1.949], p < 0.0001) was the risk ratio for the severity of RSV infection. Children infected with hMPV under the age of 1 year (OR = 0.322, 95%CI: [0.180 – 0.575], p < 0.0001), as well as those with comorbidities (OR = 8.809, 95%CI: [4.493 – 17.272], p < 0.0001), have a higher risk of developing severe illness.

Conclusion

The changing epidemiological patterns have the potential to lead to widespread severe outbreaks among children, particularly those with underlying medical conditions who may experience more severe symptoms. Conducting surveillance for pneumoviridae viruses in children is an imperative measure to establish a robust foundation for future epidemic prevention and treatment strategies.
Circulating extracellular vesicles as biomarkers in the diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of cardiovascular diseases
Authors: Bernáth-Nagy Dominika , Kalinyaprak Melek Sükran , Giannitsis Evangelos , Ábrahám Pál , Leuschner Florian , Frey Norbert , Krohn Jona Benjamin
Published: September 2024

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) ranks among the primary contributors to worldwide mortality. Hence, the importance of constant research on new circulating biomarkers for the improvement of early diagnosis and prognostication of different CVDs and the development and refinement of therapeutic measures is critical. Extracellular vesicles (EV) have a great potential as diagnostic and prognostic markers, as they represent their parent cell by enclosing cell-specific molecules, which can differ in quality and quantity based on cell state. Assuming that all cell types of the cardiovascular system are capable of releasing EV into circulation, an emerging body of evidence has investigated the potential role of serum- or plasma-derived EV in CVD. Comprehensive research has unveiled alterations in EV quantity and EV-bound cargo in the form of RNA, proteins and lipids in the context of common CVDs such as coronary artery disease, atrial fibrillation, heart failure or inflammatory heart diseases, highlighting their diagnostic and prognostic relevance. In numerous in vitro and in vivo models, EV also showed promising therapeutic potential. However, translation of EV studies to a preclinical or clinical setting has proven to be challenging. This review is intended to provide an overview of the most relevant studies in the field of serum or plasma-derived EV.
A case report of system configuration issue in medical imaging due to system upgrade– changes in hardware and software
Authors: Jabin Md Shafiqur Rahman , Wepa Dianne , Hassoun Abdallah
Published: September 2024

Although the rapid growth in the efficiency of medical imaging is undeniable, the expansion of health information technology (HIT) into medical imaging has not been as seamless or well-integrated as it was thought to be. The socio-technical complexities in medical imaging associated with HIT systems can cause risks to patient harm and inconvenience, both individually and collectively, often in new, unforeseen, and unexpected ways. This study reflects a retrospectively collected single incident report related to medical imaging HIT systems, aiming to develop a set of preventive and corrective strategies. A combination of multiple deductive approaches (existing frameworks), i.e., HIT Classification Systems and 18-step medical imaging process workflow and inductive method (content analysis), were used to analyze the incident. The incident was identified as a “system configuration”-related software issue, contributed by system upgrade– changes in hardware and software. The incident was determined to occur during steps 10–12, i.e., “study selection and retrieval,” “calling up of patient's referral,” and “image review and interpretation,” causing severe disruptions in the clinical workflow for several weeks. We propose 16 preventive and corrective strategies grouped under four key areas based on the socio-technical aspects associated with HIT systems. The key areas are (i) preparation and integration for upgraded systems, (ii) training for medical imaging specialists, (iii) contingency planning/immediate backup system, and (iv) system design and configuration. These strategies are expected to help healthcare staff, analysts, reporters, researchers, and relevant stakeholders improve care delivery and patient safety in medical imaging in the context of any system upgrades.
Study on fatigue characteristics of red sandstone under extremely high stress in the hydro-chemical environment
Authors: Peng Tao , Ren Dongxing , He Fanmin , Li Binjia , Wu Fei , Zhou Hanbing
Published: September 2024

To study the failure of red sandstone under extremely high stress during the service life of tunnels, an in-depth study was conducted on the mechanical properties of red sandstone under uniaxial loading and cyclic loading and unloading processes at different pH values using the AG-250kNIS electronic precision material testing machine and MTS815 mechanical testing machine. The results show that as the acidity and alkalinity increase, the peak stress under uniaxial loading decreases and the axial strain increases,The peak stress at failure is 9.40, 12.37, 7.18, and 5.36 MPa, respectively, accounting for 74.19%, 68.91%, 40.38%, and 36.21% of the uniaxial compressive strength; The number of cycles significantly decreases during cyclic loading and unloading fatigue failure, and the stress required for sandstone failure gradually decreases. The peak strength and elastic modulus of sandstone show a decreasing trend, indicating that the hydrochemical environment plays an accelerating role in rock degradation. During the cyclic loading and unloading process of sandstone, there is a continuous increase in dissipated energy and finally a sudden increase, the Ud/U and Ue/U ratios at the peak point of sandstone in the natural state are 0.399 and 0.601, respectively, while the overall elastic energy shows an increasing trend; and a damage evolution model was established based on dissipative energy, which can better describe the degradation process of red sandstone.
Effects of T2DM on cancer progression: pivotal precipitating factors and underlying mechanisms
Authors: Zhang Yu-Yuan , Li Yong-Jiang , Xue Chun-Dong , Li Shen , Gao Zheng-Nan , Qin Kai-Rong
Published: September 2024

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder affecting people worldwide. It is characterized by several key features, including hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, hyperlipidemia, and dysbiosis. Epidemiologic studies have shown that T2DM is closely associated with the development and progression of cancer. T2DM-related hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia contribute to cancer progression through complex signaling pathways. These factors increase drug resistance, apoptosis resistance, and the migration, invasion, and proliferation of cancer cells. Here, we will focus on the role of hyperinsulinemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperlipidemia associated with T2DM in cancer development. Additionally, we will elucidate the potential molecular mechanisms underlying their effects on cancer progression. We aim to identify potential therapeutic targets for T2DM-related malignancies and explore relevant directions for future investigation.
Role of oxytocin in bone
Authors: Wang Tianming , Ye Jianya , Zhang Yongqiang , Li Jiayi , Yang Tianxiao , Wang Yufeng , Jiang Xiao , Yao Qingqiang
Published: September 2024

Oxytocin (OT) is a posterior pituitary hormone that, in addition to its role in regulating childbirth and lactation, also exerts direct regulatory effects on the skeleton through peripheral OT and oxytocin receptor (OTR). Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs), osteoblasts (OB), osteoclasts (OC), chondrocytes, and adipocytes all express OT and OTR. OT upregulates RUNX2, BMP2, ALP, and OCN, thereby enhancing the activity of BMSCs and promoting their differentiation towards OB rather than adipocytes. OT also directly regulates OPG/RANKL to inhibit adipocyte generation, increase the expression of SOX9 and COMP, and enhance chondrocyte differentiation. OB can secrete OT, exerting influence on the surrounding environment through autocrine and paracrine mechanisms. OT directly increases OC formation through the NκB/MAP kinase signaling pathway, inhibits osteoclast proliferation by triggering cytoplasmic Ca2+ release and nitric oxide synthesis, and has a dual regulatory effect on OCs. Under the stimulation of estrogen, OB synthesizes OT, amplifying the biological effects of estrogen and OT. Mediated by estrogen, the OT/OTR forms a feedforward loop with OB. Apart from estrogen, OT also interacts with arginine vasopressin (AVP), prostaglandins (PGE2), leptin, and adiponectin to regulate bone metabolism. This review summarizes recent research on the regulation of bone metabolism by OT and OTR, aiming to provide insights into their clinical applications and further research.
Dynamic prediction of overhead transmission line ampacity based on the BP neural network using Bayesian optimization
Authors: Sun Yong , Liu Yuanqi , Wang Bowen , Lu Yu , Fan Ruihua , Song Xiaozhe , Jiang Yong , She Xin , Shi Shengyao , Ma Kerui , Zhang Guoqing , Shen Xinyi
Published: September 2024

Traditionally, the ampacity of an overhead transmission line (OHTL) is a static value obtained based on adverse weather conditions, which constrains the transmission capacity. With the continuous growth of power system load, it is increasingly necessary to dynamically adjust the ampacity based on weather conditions. To this end, this paper models the heat balance relationship of the OHTL based on a BP neural network using Bayesian optimization (BO-BP). On this basis, an OHTL ampacity prediction method considering the model error is proposed. First, a two-stage current-stepping ampacity prediction model is established to obtain the initial ampacity prediction results. Then, the risk control strategy of ampacity prediction considering the model error is proposed to correct the ampacity based on the quartile of the model error to reduce the risk of the conductor overheating caused by the model error. Finally, a simulation is carried out based on the operation data of a 220-kV transmission line. The simulation results show that the accuracy of the BO-BP model is improved by more than 20% compared with the traditional heat balance equation. The proposed ampacity prediction method can improve the transmission capacity by more than 150% compared with the original static ampacity.
Envirotyping helps in better understanding the root cause of success and limitations of rainfed production systems
Authors: Sawargaonkar Gajanan L. , Davala Moses Shyam , Rakesh S. , Kamdi Prasad J. , Khopade Rohan Y. , Nune Rajesh , Pasumarthi Rajesh , Choudhari Pushpajeet , Datta Aviraj , Akuraju Venkata Radha , Dixit Sreenath , Singh Ramesh , Jat Mangi Lal
Published: September 2024

The current diagnostic agronomy study of the Bankura region of West Bengal, India, examined the variations in crop yields through a socio-ecological analysis of multiple production system components. Envirotyping for root cause analysis was employed to delve into the variables that affect the performance of rainfed production systems. Mother Earth, man, machine, management, and materials (5Ms concept) were the five indicators under which the variables were grouped. Findings demonstrated the fragility of the region’s soils due to its undulating terrain, unpredictable rainfall patterns, and frequent drought scenarios. The LULC’s NDVI showed that the agricultural area is about 60% and 43% of the total geographical area in the Hirbandh and Ranibandh blocks, respectively. Soils are acidic and diagnosed with deficiency of both macro and micronutrients (phosphorous, sulfur, and boron) having poor water holding capacity (35 to 55 mm for a 50 cm soil depth). The sand and soil organic carbon contents ranged between 43.04%–82.32% and 0.17%–1.01%, respectively with a low bacterial population. These factors are the root cause for low cropping intensity (106%) and low paddy productivity (3,021 kg/ha). Overall, the study contributes to designing and scaling-up of sustainable landscape management practices that could ensure higher cropping intensity and system productivity in similar agro-ecologies with limited evidence.
Dual role of Nrf2 signaling in hepatocellular carcinoma: promoting development, immune evasion, and therapeutic challenges
Authors: Gan Lin , Wang Wei , Jiang Jinxiu , Tian Ke , Liu Wei , Cao Zhumin
Published: September 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the predominant form of liver cancer and ranks as the third leading cause of cancer-related mortality globally. The liver performs a wide range of tasks and is the primary organ responsible for metabolizing harmful substances and foreign compounds. Oxidative stress has a crucial role in growth and improvement of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nuclear factor erythroid 2 (1)-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is an element that regulates transcription located in the cytoplasm. It controls the balance of redox reactions by stimulating the expression of many genes that depend on antioxidant response elements. Nrf2 has contrasting functions in the normal, healthy liver and HCC. In the normal liver, Nrf2 provides advantageous benefits, while in HCC it promotes harmful effects that support the growth and survival of HCC. Continuous activation of Nrf2 has been detected in HCC and promotes its advancement and aggressiveness. In addition, Activation of Nrf2 may lead to immune evasion, weakening the immune cells’ ability to attack tumors and thereby promoting tumor development. Furthermore, chemoresistance in HCC, which is considered a form of stress response to chemotherapy medications, significantly impedes the effectiveness of HCC treatment. Stress management is typically accomplished by activating specific signal pathways and chemical variables. One important element in the creation of chemoresistance in HCC is nuclear factor-E2-related factor 2 (Nrf2). Nrf2 is a transcription factor that regulates the activation and production of a group of genes that encode proteins responsible for protecting cells from damage. This occurs through the Nrf2/ARE pathway, which is a crucial mechanism for combating oxidative stress within cells.
Causal association of inflammatory bowel disease with sarcoidosis and the mediating role of primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Yi Jiazhi , Wu Shuyun , He Hongxia
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Previous observational epidemiological studies have identified a potential association between inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and sarcoidosis. Nonetheless, the precise biological mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. Therefore, we adopted a Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to investigate the causal relationship between IBD with genetic susceptibility to sarcoidosis, as well as to explore the potential mediating role.

Methods

The genetic associations were obtained from publicly available genome-wide association studies (GWASs) of European ancestry. The IBD dataset has 31,665 cases and 33,977 controls, consisting of 13,768 individuals with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 17,897 individuals with Crohn’s disease (CD). The genetic associations of sarcoidosis with 4,854 cases and 446,523 controls. A bidirectional causality between IBD and sarcoidosis was implemented to be determined by a two-sample MR approach. The inverse variance weighted (IVW) method was utilized as the main statistical method, and a series of sensitivity analyses were performed to detect heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy. A two-step MR approach was used to investigate whether the mediating pathway from IBD to sarcoidosis was mediated by PBC.

Results

The forward MR analysis indicated that genetic predisposition to IBD was significantly linked to an increased risk of sarcoidosis (OR = 1.088, 95% CI: 1.023–1.158, pIBD-sar = 7.498e-03). Similar causal associations were observed in CD (OR = 1.082, 95% CI: 1.028–1.138, pCD-sar = 2.397e-03) and UC (OR = 1.079, 95% CI: 1.006–1.158, pUC-sar = 0.034). Reverse MR analysis revealed that genetic susceptibility to sarcoidosis was correlated with an augmented risk of CD (OR = 1.306, 95% CI: 1.110–1.537, psar-CD = 1.290e-03) but not IBD or UC. The mediation analysis via two-step MR showed that the causal influence of IBD and CD on sarcoidosis effects was partly mediated by PBC, and the mediating effect was 0.018 (95% CI: 0.005–0.031, p = 7.596e-03) with a mediated proportion of 21.397% in IBD, and 0.014 (95% CI: 0.004–0.024, p = 7.800e-03) with a mediated proportion of 17.737% in CD.

Conclusions

The MR analysis provided evidence substantiating the causal effect of IBD (CD and UC) on an increased risk of sarcoidosis, with PBC playing a mediating role in IBD and CD. However, sarcoidosis only enhances the risk of developing CD, but not IBD or UC. These findings illuminate the etiology of sarcoidosis and contribute to the management of IBD patients.
Exploring the transcriptomic landscape of moyamoya disease and systemic lupus erythematosus: insights into crosstalk genes and immune relationships
Authors: Guo Qingbao , Fan Yan-Na , Xie Manli , Wang Qian-Nan , Li Jingjie , Liu Simeng , Wang Xiaopeng , Yu Dan , Zou Zhengxing , Gao Gan , Zhang Qian , Hao Fangbin , Feng Jie , Yang Rimiao , Wang Minjie , Fu Heguan , Bao Xiangyang , Duan Lian
Published: September 2024

Background

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE) is acknowledged for its significant influence on systemic health. This study sought to explore potential crosstalk genes, pathways, and immune cells in the relationship between SLE and moyamoya disease (MMD).

Methods

We obtained data on SLE and MMD from the Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database. Differential expression analysis and weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) were conducted to identify common genes. Subsequently, Gene Ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analyses were performed on these shared genes. Hub genes were further selected through the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve was generated based on the results of this selection. Finally, single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) was utilized to assess the infiltration levels of 28 immune cells in the expression profile and their association with the identified hub genes.

Results

By intersecting the important module genes from WGCNA with the DEGs, the study highlighted CAMP, CFD, MYO1F, CTSS, DEFA3, NLRP12, MAN2B1, NMI, QPCT, KCNJ2, JAML, MPZL3, NDC80, FRAT2, THEMIS2, CCL4, FCER1A, EVI2B, CD74, HLA-DRB5, TOR4A, GAPT, CXCR1, LAG3, CD68, NCKAP1L, TMEM33, and S100P as key crosstalk genes linking SLE and MMD. GO analysis indicated that these shared genes were predominantly enriched in immune system process and immune response. LASSO analysis identified MPZL3 as the optimal shared diagnostic biomarkers for both SLE and MMD. Additionally, the analysis of immune cell infiltration revealed the significant involvement of activation of T and monocytes cells in the pathogenesis of SLE and MMD.

Conclusion

This study is pioneering in its use of bioinformatics tools to explore the close genetic relationship between MMD and SLE. The genes CAMP, CFD, MYO1F, CTSS, DEFA3, NLRP12, MAN2B1, NMI, QPCT, KCNJ2, JAML, MPZL3, NDC80, FRAT2, THEMIS2, CCL4, FCER1A, EVI2B, CD74, HLA-DRB5, TOR4A, GAPT, CXCR1, LAG3, CD68, NCKAP1L, TMEM33, and S100P have been identified as key crosstalk genes that connect MMD and SLE. Activation of T and monocytes cells-mediated immune responses are proposed to play a significant role in the association between MMD and SLE.
Monitoring monthly mortality of maricultured Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar L.) in Scotland I. Dynamic linear models at production cycle level
Authors: Merca Carolina , Boerlage Annette Simone , Kristensen Anders Ringgaard , Jensen Dan Børge
Published: September 2024

The mortality of Atlantic salmon is one of the main challenges to achieving its sustainable production. This sector benefits from generating many data, some of which are collated in a standardized way, on a monthly basis at site level, and are accessible to the public. This continuously updated resource might provide opportunities to monitor mortality and prompt producers and inspectors to further investigate when mortality is higher than expected. This study aimed to use the available open-source data to develop production cycle level dynamic linear models (DLMs) for monitoring monthly mortality of maricultured Atlantic salmon in Scotland. To achieve this, several production cycle level DLMs were created: one univariate DLM that includes just mortality; and various multivariate DLMs that include mortality and different combinations of environmental variables. While environmental information is not collated in a standardized way across all sites, open-source remote-sensed satellite resources provide continuous, standardized estimates. By combining environmental and mortality data, we seek to investigate whether adding environmental variables enhanced the estimates of mortality, and if so, which variables were most informative in this respect. The multivariate model performed better than the univariate DLM (P = .004), with salinity as the only significant contributor out of 12 environmental variables. Both models exhibited uncertainty related to the mortality estimates. Warnings were generated when any observation fell above the 95% credible interval. Approximately 30% of production cycles and more than 50% of sites experienced at least one warning between 2015 and 2020. Occurrences of these warnings were non-uniformly distributed across space and time, with the majority happening in the summer and autumn months. Recommendations for model improvement include employing shorter time periods for data aggregation, such as weekly instead of on a monthly basis. Furthermore, developing a model that takes hierarchical relationships into account could offer a promising approach.
Cardiometabolic multimorbidity in Mexican adults: a cross-sectional analysis of a national survey
Authors: Agudelo-Botero Marcela , Dávila-Cervantes Claudio A. , Giraldo-Rodríguez Liliana
Published: September 2024

Background

Cardiometabolic multimorbidity is a rising phenomenon that has been barely explored in middle-income countries such as Mexico.

Objective

This study aimed to estimate the prevalence, associated factors, and patterns of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (2 and 3+ diseases) in Mexican adults (≥20 years old) by age group.

Methods

A cross-sectional and secondary analysis of Mexico’s National Health and Nutrition Survey 2018–2019 was conducted. Information on eight diseases and other sociodemographic and health/lifestyle characteristics was obtained through self-reporting. Descriptive analyses were performed, and multinomial logistic regression models were calculated to identify the variables associated with cardiometabolic multimorbidity. Factor analysis and latent classes were estimated to determine disease patterns.

Results

The prevalence of cardiometabolic multimorbidity for the total population study was 27.6% (13.7% for people with 2 diseases and 13.9% for people with 3+ diseases). By age group, the prevalence of 2+ diseases was 12.5% in the age group of 20–39 years, 35.2% in the age group of 40–59 years, and 44.5% in the age group of 60 years and older. The variables of depressive symptomatology and having functional limitations (1+) were statistically associated with cardiometabolic multimorbidity in almost all age groups. Patterns of cardiometabolic multimorbidity varied among adults in different age groups. Understanding the behavior of cardiometabolic multimorbidity at various stages of adulthood is a resource that could be used to design and implement intervention strategies. Such strategies should correspond to the population’s sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle characteristics and the specific disease patterns of each age group.
Health professionals’ views and experiences of breaking bad news in the Eastern Mediterranean Region: a scoping review
Authors: Yousuf Abdulla Ahmad A. A. , Stewart Derek Charles , Kane Tanya , Soltani Abderrezzaq , Al-Khal Abdullatif , Sethi Ahsan
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Breaking bad news is a critical yet challenging aspect of healthcare that requires effective communication skills, empathy, and cultural sensitivity. Health professionals in the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Region face unique cultural and social factors distinct from other parts of the world. This scoping review aims to comprehensively explore the peer-reviewed literature on the health professionals’ experiences in delivering bad news within the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted according to the Joanna Brigg Institute’s scoping review methodology and reported utilizing the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews extension for scoping review (PRISMA-ScR) guidelines. A search using a combination of keywords and MeSH terms related to “breaking bad news” and “health professionals” was performed in PubMed, Scopus, CINAHL, EBSCO, ERIC via Embase, and Dar Almandumah (Arabic) databases. Common themes were synthesized from studies conducted in the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region.

Results

Out of 4,883 studies initially identified in the databases, 24 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving a total of 4,710 participants, including physicians, nurses, and residents. The studies were published between 2006 and 2022, predominantly from Iran (n = 12). The majority employed a cross-sectional design (n = 21) or mixed methods (n = 3), with a notable absence of qualitative studies. No studies used theoretical frameworks. More than half of the studies (n = 14) reported that participants had positive attitudes toward breaking bad news. This positivity was evident in their willingness to share bad news, perceived possession of adequate knowledge, positive attitudes, having received training, awareness of accepted approaches, and adherence to protocols. The lack of training and limited awareness of established protocols like SPIKES, ABCDE, and BREAKS for breaking bad news were major concerns among participants.

Conclusion

The scoping review reveals both positive and negative experiences of breaking bad news by health professionals in the WHO’s Eastern Mediterranean Region. Most studies highlight the need for culturally sensitive targeted education and training programs on breaking bad news. Further research, particularly using qualitative methodologies and theoretical frameworks is warranted.
Super-resolution microscopy to study membrane nanodomains and transport mechanisms in the plasma membrane
Authors: Zulueta Diaz Yenisleidy de las Mercedes , Arnspang Eva C.
Published: September 2024

Biological membranes are complex, heterogeneous, and dynamic systems that play roles in the compartmentalization and protection of cells from the environment. It is still a challenge to elucidate kinetics and real-time transport routes for molecules through biological membranes in live cells. Currently, by developing and employing super-resolution microscopy; increasing evidence indicates channels and transporter nano-organization and dynamics within membranes play an important role in these regulatory mechanisms. Here we review recent advances and discuss the major advantages and disadvantages of using super-resolution microscopy to investigate protein organization and transport within plasma membranes.
Flexible control and trajectory planning of medical two-arm surgical robot
Authors: Xie Yanchun , Zhao Xue , Jiang Yang , Wu Yao , Yu Hailong
Published: September 2024

This paper introduces the flexible control and trajectory planning medical two-arm surgical robots, and employs effective collision detection methods to ensure the safety and precision during tasks. Firstly, the DH method is employed to establish relative rotation matrices between coordinate systems, determining the relative relationships of each joint link. A neural network based on a multilayer perceptron is proposed to solve FKP problem in real time. Secondly, a universal interpolator based on Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines (NURBS) is developed, capable of handling any geometric shape to ensure smooth and flexible motion trajectories. Finally, we developed a generalized momentum observer to detect external collisions, eliminating the need for external sensors and thereby reducing mechanical complexity and cost. The experiments verify the effectiveness of the kinematics solution and trajectory planning, demonstrating that the improved momentum torque observer can significantly reduce system overshoot, enabling the two-arm surgical robot to perform precise and safe surgical tasks under algorithmic guidance.
Two decades of progress in glioma methylation research: the rise of temozolomide resistance and immunotherapy insights
Authors: Huo Xianhao , Li Haoyuan , Xing Yixiang , Liu Wenqing , Chen Pengfei , Du Fang , Song Lijuan , Yu Zhenhua , Cao Xiangmei , Tian Jihui
Published: September 2024

Aims

This study aims to systematically analyze the global trends in glioma methylation research using bibliometric methodologies. We focus on identifying the scholarly trajectory and key research interests, and we utilize these insights to predict future research directions within the epigenetic context of glioma.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive literature search of the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) to identify articles related to glioma methylation published from January 1, 2004, to December 31, 2023. The analysis included full-text publications in the English language and excluded non-research publications. Analysis and visualization were performed using GraphPad Prism, CiteSpace, and VOSviewer software.

Results

The search identified 3,744 publications within the WoSCC database, including 3,124 original research articles and 620 review articles. The research output gradually increased from 2004 to 2007, followed by a significant increase after 2008, which peaked in 2022. A minor decline in publication output was noted during 2020–2021, potentially linked to the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic. The United States and China were the leading contributors, collectively accounting for 57.85% of the total research output. The Helmholtz Association of Germany, the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), and the Ruprecht Karls University of Heidelberg were the most productive institutions. The Journal of Neuro-Oncology led in terms of publication volume, while Neuro-Oncology had the highest Impact Factor. The analysis of publishing authors revealed Michael Weller as the most prolific contributor. The co-citation network analysis identified David N. Louis's article as the most frequently cited. The keyword analysis revealed “temozolomide,” “expression,” “survival,” and “DNA methylation” as the most prominent keywords, while “heterogeneity,” “overall survival,” and “tumor microenvironment” showed the strongest citation bursts.

Conclusions

The findings of this study illustrate the increasing scholarly interest in glioma methylation, with a notable increase in research output over the past two decades. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the research landscape, highlighting the importance of temozolomide, DNA methylation, and the tumor microenvironment in glioma research. Despite its limitations, this study offers valuable insights into the current research trends and potential future directions, particularly in the realm of immunotherapy and epigenetic editing techniques.
Crosstalk between ubiquitination and translation in neurodevelopmental disorders
Authors: Elu Nagore , Subash Srividya , R. Louros Susana
Published: September 2024

Ubiquitination is one of the most conserved post-translational modifications and together with mRNA translation contributes to cellular protein homeostasis (proteostasis). Temporal and spatial regulation of proteostasis is particularly important during synaptic plasticity, when translation of specific mRNAs requires tight regulation. Mutations in genes encoding regulators of mRNA translation and in ubiquitin ligases have been associated with several neurodevelopmental disorders. RNA metabolism and translation are regulated by RNA-binding proteins, critical for the spatial and temporal control of translation in neurons. Several ubiquitin ligases also regulate RNA-dependent mechanisms in neurons, with numerous ubiquitination events described in splicing factors and ribosomal proteins. Here we will explore how ubiquitination regulates translation in neurons, from RNA biogenesis to alternative splicing and how dysregulation of ubiquitin signaling can be the underlying cause of pathology in neurodevelopmental disorders, such as Fragile X syndrome. Finally we propose that targeting ubiquitin signaling is an attractive novel therapeutic strategy for neurodevelopmental disorders where mRNA translation and ubiquitin signaling are disrupted.