bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel homozygous intronic variant in CDT1 that alters splicing causes Meier–Gorlin syndrome, and a review of published mutations and growth hormone treatments
Authors: Li Qing , Wu Yichi , Meng Fucheng , Li Zhuxi , Zhan Di , Luo Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

Background

Meier–Gorlin syndrome (MGORS) is a rare autosomal inherited form of primordial dwarfism. Pathogenic variants in 13 genes involved in DNA replication initiation have been identified in this disease, but homozygous intronic variants have never been reported. Additionally, whether growth hormone (GH) treatment can increase the height of children with MGORS is unclear.

Methods

The medical history data of a young girl were collected and reviewed. Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and bioinformatic analysis were performed to identify any variants and predict their pathogenicity. Minigene constructs were generated and transfected into HEK-293T cells for in vitro splicing assays. The literature was reviewed to explore the mutational spectrum and efficacy of GH treatment for this disease.

Results

A girl with microtia, hypoplastic patellae, and severe growth retardation carried a novel homozygous intronic variant (NM_030928.4: exon 3: c.352–30 A > C) in CDT1. The variant was predicted to break a branch point and alter splicing, and the minigene assay confirmed abnormal splicing with exon 3 skipping. The patient was treated with GH for 5 years, with an increase in growth velocity from 4.0 cm/year to an average of 6.2 cm/year. A literature review revealed that the most common variant type and inheritance state were missense and compound heterozygous, respectively. Additionally, the vast majority of children with MGORS treated with GH had normal insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) levels, and half of them responded positively to GH therapy.

Conclusions

We reported a novel pathogenic homozygous intronic variant (c.352–30 A > C) of CDT1 in a girl with MGORS, and this mutation extended the genetic spectrum of the disease. GH therapy may be beneficial for height outcomes in children with MGORS with normal IGF-1 levels.
Immunological pathogenesis and treatment progress of adenovirus pneumonia in children
Authors: Liang Yaowen , Wei Jie , Shen Jianjun , Liang Zihao , Ma Xiuchang , Du Yuchen , Qian Wenxian , Dong Hui , Huang Ping , Chen Apeng , Yi Changhua
Published: January 2025

Human adenovirus is an infectious agent that causes respiratory infections in adults and children. It has been found that immunocompromised children are highly susceptible to this pathogen, as it can swiftly evolve into severe pneumonia with multiple sequelae. Due to the lack of immunity in children, the body’s response mechanisms to innate and acquired immunity are specialized. We first examined the infection classification and clinical characteristics associated with adenovirus in children. Subsequently, we explored the in-depth understanding of the pathogenic mechanism of adenovirus pneumonia in children, focusing on immunological and cellular biological aspects. Adenovirus infection in children can disrupt the balance of the innate immune response, inducing immune cells to secrete an abundance of pro-inflammatory cytokines. This cascade results in a cytokine storm, which triggers an inflammatory response and causes lung tissue damage. As a result, the infection may progress to a severe state, potentially leading to multi-organ failure. Immunocompromised children exhibit impaired immune cell numbers and functions, which affects both the secretion of antibodies to humoral immunity and the immune response of cellular immunity to adenovirus. Lastly, we reviewed the progress in treating adenovirus pneumonia in children. There are many treatments for adenovirus pneumonia in children, which must be personalized based on a thorough assessment to optimize treatment outcomes. Recent advancements in pharmaceutical development have provided new treatment options for children. Immunomodulatory therapy can reduce inflammation in children, while adjuvant therapy can improve respiratory function; however, it can also lead to complications. Further, co-infections increased the complexity of diagnosis and treatment, necessitating dynamic adjustments to treatment regimens. This review could serve as the basis for identifying potential therapeutic approaches to alleviate the symptoms associated with adenovirus infections in children.
The effects of variable spatial aggregation on lymphatic filariasis transmission
Authors: Shaw Callum , McLure Angus , Glass Kathryn
Published: January 2025

Background

Elimination of lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a World Health Organization goal, with several countries at or near prevalence thresholds. Where LF cases remain after mass drug administration, they tend to be spatially clustered, with an overdispersed individual worm burden. Both individual and spatial heterogeneities can cause aggregation of infection; however, few studies have investigated the drivers of heterogeneity and implications for disease elimination.

Methods

We used a spatially explicit lymphatic filariasis model to investigate LF transmission in American Samoa at three spatial scales – a territory-level model, a village model with 64 groups and a subvillage model with 316 groups.

Results

To reproduce American Samoan survey data, models with less spatial structure required increased individual-level bite aggregation. Threshold behaviour was present in the territory model but less evident in the models with spatial structure. As such, mass drug administration was most effective in the territory model, while in the spatially structured models, successive rounds of mass drug administration only gradually increased the likelihood of elimination. With the addition of spatial structure, residual infections remained in limited groups, and infection resurgence was slowed.

Conclusions

Due to the impacts on potential intervention and surveillance strategies, it is critical that studies incorporate individual and spatial sources of heterogeneity to accurately model transmission and inform potential policy decisions.

Graphical Abstract
Antihypertensive strategies for the prevention of secondary stroke: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang ChunQi , Feng Ling , Tu ShuangYan , Wei Dan , Wang Rui , Deng ZhiQiang , Luo YiPing
Published: January 2025

Background

Stroke is an important contributor to disability and death globally. Hypertension is a main risk factor for recurrent stroke in patients with ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke or transient ischemic attack. Higher systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, pulse pressure and mean arterial pressure at admission are independently associated with the risk of stroke recurrence. Therefore, lowering blood pressure is recommended by guidelines to prevent the recurrence of stroke.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and Web of Science databases was conducted through January 12, 2024. The search identified randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing antihypertensive drugs with control measures (placebo or no treatment) or standard blood pressure control (SBPC) with intensive blood pressure control (IBPC) for recurrent stroke prevention. Primary outcomes included overall and subtype stroke recurrence rates, fatal and non-fatal strokes, cardiovascular deaths, and myocardial infarctions (MIs). Secondary outcomes comprised non-fatal MIs and all-cause mortality. Risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated using random or fixed-effect models in Stata 15.0.

Results

The analysis included 19 RCTs encompassing 72,048 patients. Twelve studies (n = 53,971) evaluated antihypertensive drugs against placebo or no treatment, while seven studies (n = 18,077) compared SBPC with IBPC. Antihypertensive therapy demonstrated significant risk reductions compared to placebo or no treatment for recurrent stroke (RR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.75–0.97), cardiovascular deaths (RR = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.97), and MIs (RR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.79–0.96). IBPC showed superior outcomes compared to SBPC, with significant reductions in recurrent stroke (RR = 0.87, 95% CI: 0.77–0.98), cardiovascular deaths (RR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.61–0.91), and all-cause mortality (RR = 0.85, 95% CI: 0.73–0.95).

Conclusion

In stroke patients, antihypertensive therapy demonstrates significant protective effects against stroke recurrence, cardiovascular deaths, and MIs compared to placebo or no treatment. Additionally, IBPC provides enhanced protection against stroke recurrence, cardiovascular deaths, and all-cause mortality compared to SBPC.
Impact of dietary lysophospholipids supplementation on growth performance, meat quality, and lipid metabolism in finishing bulls fed diets varying in fatty acid saturation
Authors: Zhang Meimei , Bai Haixin , Wang Ruixue , Zhao Yufan , Yang Wenzhu , Liu Jincheng , Zhang Yonggen , Jiao Peixin
Published: January 2025

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of dietary fatty acids (FA) saturation and lysophospholipids supplementation on growth, meat quality, oxidative stability, FA profiles, and lipid metabolism of finishing beef bulls. Thirty-two Angus bulls (initial body weight: 623 ± 22.6 kg; 21 ± 0.5 months of age) were used. The experiment was a completely randomized block design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments: 2 diets with FA of different degree of unsaturation [high saturated FA diet (HSFA) vs. high unsaturated FA diet (HUFA)] combined with (0.075%, dry matter basis) and without lysophospholipids supplementation. The bulls were fed a high-concentrate diet (forage to concentrate, 15:85) for 104 d including a 14-d adaptation period and a 90-d data and sample collection period.

Results

No interactions were observed between dietary FA and lysophospholipids supplementation for growth and meat quality parameters. A greater dietary ratio of unsaturated FA (UFA) to saturated FA (SFA) from 1:2 to 1:1 led to lower DM intake and backfat thickness, but did not affect growth performance and other carcass traits. Compared with HSFA, bulls fed HUFA had greater shear force in Longissimus thoracis (LT) muscle, but had lower intramuscular fat (IMF) content and SOD content in LT muscle. Compared with HUFA, feeding the HSFA diet up-regulated expression of ACC, FAS, PPARγ, and SCD1, but down-regulated expression of CPT1B. Compared with feeding HSFA, the HUFA diet led to greater concentrations of c9-C18:1 and other monounsaturated FA in LT muscle. Feeding HUFA also led to lower plasma concentrations of cholesterol, but there were no interactions between FA and lysophospholipids detected. Feeding lysophospholipids improved growth and feed conversion ratio and altered meat quality by increasing muscle pH24h, redness values (24 h), IMF content, and concentrations of C18:3, C20:5 and total polyunsaturated fatty acids. Furthermore, lysophospholipids supplementation led to lower malondialdehyde content and up-regulated the expression of ACC, FAS, and LPL in LT muscle.

Conclusions

Results indicated that supplementing a high-concentrate diet with lysophospholipids to beef bulls can enhance growth rate, feed efficiency, meat quality, and beneficial FA. Increasing the dietary ratio of UFA to SFA reduced DM intake and backfat thickness without compromising growth, suggesting potential improvements in feed efficiency.
Suprachoroidal injection of triamcinolone acetonide as adjuvant to surgical treatment of epiretinal membrane
Authors: Morescalchi Francesco , Gandolfo Federico , Romano Vito , Baldi Andrea , Semeraro Francesco
Published: January 2025

Background

To analyse the effect of suprachoroidal injection (SChI) of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) on macular thickness (CRT), ectopic inner foveal layer thickness (EIFL-T) and best corrected visual acuity (BCVA) in pseudophakic patients undergoing vitrectomy for epiretinal membrane (iERM) compared to intravitreal injection of TA (IVTA).

Methods

Prospective matched comparison of patients undergoing vitrectomy for Govetto stage 3 and 4 iERM. 25 eyes receiving IVTA (G-1) were compared to 23 eyes receiving SChI-TA (G-2) during vitrectomy. Primary outcome was change in BCVA, CRT, EIFL-T before surgery and 1, 3 and 6 months after surgery. Secondary outcome was the incidence of cystoid macular edema (CME).

Results

Six months after surgery, G2 had a greater mean reduction in CRT (−222 µm vs −131 µm) and EIFL-T (−200 µm vs −104 µm) than G1. BCVA improved more in G2 than in G1 (p = 0.02). Foveal depression reformed in 43% of cases in G-2 and 16% of cases in G-1. Incidence of postoperative CME was 16% in G-1 and 4.3% in G-2.

Conclusions

During vitrectomy for iERM, SChI-TA was more effective than IVTA in reducing CRT and EIFL-T and improving BCVA. SChI-TA was effective in preventing postoperative CME. SChI-TA treatment was safe and reproducible and did not affect postoperative IOP.

Trial registration NP6289—June 18th, 2024 (retrospectively registered).
Temporal and spatial pattern analysis of escaped prescribed fires in California from 1991 to 2020
Authors: Li Shu , Baijnath-Rodino Janine A. , York Robert A. , Quinn-Davidson Lenya N. , Banerjee Tirtha
Published: January 2025

Background

Prescribed fires play a critical role in reducing the intensity and severity of future wildfires by systematically and widely consuming accumulated vegetation fuel. While the current probability of prescribed fire escape in the United States stands very low, their consequential impact, particularly the large wildfires they cause, raises substantial concerns. The most direct way of understanding this trade-off between wildfire risk reduction and prescribed fire escapes is to explore patterns in the historical prescribed fire records. This study investigates the spatiotemporal patterns of escaped prescribed fires in California from 1991 to 2020, offering insights for resource managers in developing effective forest management and fuel treatment strategies.

Results

The results reveal that the months close to the beginning and end of the wildfire season, namely May, June, September, and November, have the highest frequency of escaped fires. Under similar environmental conditions, areas with more records of prescribed fire implementation tend to experience fewer escapes. The findings revealed the vegetation types most susceptible to escaped prescribed fires. Areas with tree cover ranging from 20 to 60% exhibited the highest incidence of escapes compared to shrubs and grasslands. Among all the environmental conditions analyzed, wind speed stands out as the predominant factor that affects the risk of prescribed fire escaping.

Conclusions

These findings mark an initial step in identifying high-risk areas and periods for prescribed fire escapes. Understanding these patterns and the challenges of quantifying escape rates can inform more effective landscape management practices.
Inductive transfer-learning of high-fidelity aerodynamics from inviscid panel methods
Authors: Wong Benjamin Y. J. , Khoo Boo Cheong
Published: January 2025

Building accurate and generalizable machine-learning models requires large training datasets. In aerodynamics, quantities of interest are typically governed by complex, non-linear mechanisms in which neural networks are well-suited to address. However, the acquisition of large, high-fidelity datasets from either simulations or experiments can be expensive. In this work, a transfer-learning framework is explored to reduce the reliance on these expensive datasets by exploiting the cost-effectiveness of low-fidelity analyses in constructing extensive datasets, such as the inviscid panel method. By first developing robust base networks from inviscid distributions, target networks can “learn” by simply transferring relevant embedded features to facilitate the modelling of high-fidelity distributions, instead of solely relying on its access to high-fidelity samples. Assessment of the framework reveals performance gains over conventional training schemes in (1) fidelity enhancement from inviscid to high-fidelity pressure distributions; (2) generalizing prior knowledge to learn adjacent skin friction properties even without a low-fidelity equivalent; (3) extrapolation to yet-to-be seen operating conditions. Under conditions of limited high-fidelity samples, test MSE evaluations can be improved by magnitudes of up to 102, 101, and 102 for the three respective tasks. As such, these findings motivate further investigations to support data-scarce surrogate modelling in more empirical settings.
Rupture of the staple suture site after stapling the right inferior pulmonary vein with double rows of staples: a case report
Authors: Suzuki Jun , Shiono Satoshi , Watanabe Hikaru , Sasage Takayuki , Hoshijima Kazumasa , Abe Kohei , Uchida Tetsuro
Published: January 2025

Background

With advancements in minimally invasive thoracic surgery techniques, such as video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery and robotic surgery, the design of vascular staplers has evolved to meet the requirements of these procedures. Consequently, newer generations of automatic staplers with improved handling and reduced size have been introduced, such as two-row staplers, which are more maneuverable and less bulky than their three-row counterparts.

Case presentation

A 68-year-old man with lung cancer underwent a right middle and lower lobectomy due to tumor invasion into the central middle bronchial trunk, rendering the preservation of the middle lobe impossible. His medical history included chronic atrial fibrillation. The surgery involved a posterolateral incision and a fifth intercostal thoracotomy, where various pulmonary arteries and veins were dissected using vascular staples. Despite completing the surgery without initial complications, the patient experienced significant postoperative bleeding, leading to approximately 800 mL of bloody fluid being drained after coughing episodes. Reoperation was necessary to address and control the bleeding, which was challenging due to the location and nature of the hemorrhage. The source was identified at the transected edge of the inferior pulmonary vein, requiring direct suture after pericardium incision for better access. The total operative time amounted to 751 min, with a blood loss of 2092 mL. The patient recovered smoothly from the second operation and was discharged on the fifth postoperative day. Histopathological examination revealed myocardial cell presence adjacent to the pulmonary vein wall, suggesting that vein thickening could have played a role in the observed postoperative bleeding.

Conclusions

In conclusion, when selecting staples for vascular use, particularly for the detachment of pulmonary veins, it is advisable to carefully choose between two-row and three-row staples.
α-catenin phosphorylation is elevated during mitosis to resist apical rounding and epithelial barrier leak
Authors: Le Phuong M. , Quinn Jeanne M. , Flozak Annette S. , Steffeck Adam W. T. , Huang Che-Fan , Gottardi Cara J.
Published: January 2025

Epithelial cell cohesion and barrier function critically depend on α-catenin, an actin-binding protein and essential constituent of cadherin-catenin-based adherens junctions. α-catenin undergoes actomyosin force-dependent unfolding of both actin-binding and middle domains to strongly engage actin filaments and its various effectors; this mechanosensitivity is critical for adherens junction function. We previously showed that α-catenin is highly phosphorylated in an unstructured region that links the mechanosensitive middle and actin-binding domains (known as the P-linker region), but the cellular processes that promote α-catenin phosphorylation have remained elusive. Here, we leverage a previously published phospho-proteomic data set to show that the α-catenin P-linker region is maximally phosphorylated during mitosis. By reconstituting α-catenin CRISPR knockout MDCK cells with wild-type, phospho-mutant and phospho-mimic forms of α-catenin, we show that full phosphorylation restrains mitotic cell rounding in the apical direction, strengthening the interactions between dividing and non-dividing neighbors to limit epithelial barrier leak. As the major scaffold components of adherens junctions, tight junctions and desmosomes are also differentially phosphorylated during mitosis, we reason that epithelial cell division may be a tractable system to understand how junction complexes are coordinately regulated to sustain barrier function under tension-generating morphogenetic processes.
A review of the empirical evidence for costs of plasticity in ectothermic animals
Authors: Little Alexander G. , Seebacher Frank
Published: January 2025

Phenotypic plasticity can represent a vital adaptive response to environmental stressors, including those associated with climate change. Despite its evolutionary advantages, the expression of plasticity varies significantly within and among species, and is likely to be influenced by local environmental conditions. This variability in plasticity has important implications for evolutionary biology and conservation physiology. Theoretical models suggest that plasticity might incur intrinsic fitness costs, although the empirical evidence is inconsistent and there is ambiguity in the term ‘cost of plasticity’. Here, we systematically review the literature to investigate the prevalence of costs associated with phenotypic plasticity in ectothermic animals. We categorized studies into those assessing ‘costs of phenotype’ (trade-offs between different plastic trait values) and ‘costs of plasticity’ (intrinsic costs of the capacity for plasticity). Importantly, the experimental designs required to detect costs of plasticity are inherently more complex and onerous than those required to detect costs of phenotype. Accordingly, our findings reveal a significant focus on costs of phenotype over costs of plasticity, with the former more frequently detecting costs. Contrary to theoretical expectations, our analysis suggests that costs of plasticity are neither universal nor widespread. This raises questions about the evolutionary dynamics of plasticity, particularly in stable environments. Our analysis underscores the need for precise terminology and methodology in researching costs of plasticity, to avoid conflating costs associated with plastic traits with costs more intrinsic to plasticity. Understanding these nuances is crucial for predicting how species might adapt to rapidly changing environments.
Screening for Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport: Detection of Clinical Indicators in Female Endurance Athletes
Authors: Wasserfurth Paulina , Halioua Robin , Toepffer Désirée , Lautz Zoë , Engel Helena , Melin Anna Katarina , Torstveit Monica Klungland , Claussen Malte Christian , Koehler Karsten
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The purpose was to evaluate the individual and combined use of the Low Energy Availability in Females Questionnaire (LEAF-Q) and the Brief Eating Disorder in Athletes Questionnaire (BEDA-Q) to detect clinical indicators associated with Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs).

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, 50 female endurance athletes training ≥4x/week completed the LEAF-Q and BEDA-Q and were assessed for presence of selected REDs indicators. Athletes meeting the criteria for mild or more severe REDs severity/risk according to the International Olympic Committee REDs Clinical Assessment Tool Version 2 (IOC REDs CAT2) were classified as REDs cases. Diagnostic properties of the German versions of the LEAF-Q and BEDA-Q were assessed at different cut-offs using receiver operating characteristics calculations.

Results

Fourteen (28%) athletes were classified as REDs cases. The LEAF-Q had a sensitivity of 79% and a specificity of 50%, with a positive predictive value (PPV) of 38% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 86%. For detection of disordered eating behaviour/eating disorder (DE/ED), the BEDA-Q showed a sensitivity and specificity of 71% and 76%, respectively, with a PPV of 68% and NPV of 79%. Out of 14 REDs cases, nine (64%) scored positive in the LEAF-Q and BEDA-Q. Two athletes (14%) scored positive only in the LEAF-Q and one athlete scored positive only in the BEDA-Q. Two REDs cases remained undetected by both questionnaires.

Conclusions

Among German female endurance athletes, the LEAF-Q and BEDA-Q are good screening tools to detect REDs cases with mild or more severe severity/risk as classified according to the IOC REDs CAT2. Further clinical assessments should be initiated when athletes score positive in at least one of the questionnaires.
Associations Between Walking Pace, APOE-ε4 Genotype, and Brain Health in Middle-Aged to Older Adults
Authors: Aslan Daniel H. , Sayre M. Katherine , Bharadwaj Pradyumna K. , Ally Madeline , Maltagliati Silvio , Lai Mark H.C. , Wilcox Rand R. , Klimentidis Yann C. , Alexander Gene E. , Raichlen David A.
Published: January 2025

Poor physical function and possession of the e4 allele of the apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene are each associated with increased dementia risk, but it is unclear how these exposures interact to influence brain health. Purpose: To investigate whether self-reported walking pace (a marker of physical function) and the presence of APOE-ε4 allele interact to modify brain health outcomes. Methods: We used data from a prospective cohort study of middle-aged to older adults from the UK Biobank who self-reported walking pace (slow or steady-to-brisk), and who were initially free of dementia (n = 415,110). Incident all-cause dementia was obtained from hospital and death registry records, and structural brain volumes (right and left hippocampus volumes, total gray matter volume, and volume of white matter hyperintensities) were measured from a subset of participants (n = 33,113). Cox proportional hazard models and generalized linear models were used to assess associations between exposures and outcomes. Results: Slow walking pace and the presence of APOE-ε4 allele were associated with increased dementia risk [HR = 1.79 (1.66,1.93), p < 0.001; HR = 3.06 (2.90,3.23), p < 0.001, respectively], and there was an interaction between these associations, indicating that the association of walking pace with dementia risk is modified by APOE-ε4 status [(reference group: HRSteady-Brisk/APOE-ε4- = 1); HRSlow/APOE-ε4- = 2.03(1.84,2.25), p < 0.001; HRSteady-Brisk/APOE-ε4+ = 3.21(3.02,3.41), p < 0.001; HRSlow/APOE-ε4+ = 4.99 (4.48,5.58), p < 0.001]. Slow self-reported walking pace was associated with worse brain volume outcomes and these associations were not modified by APOE-ε4 genotype. Conclusions: These results suggest walking pace and APOE-ε4 status independently influence brain volume outcomes, but both factors independently and jointly contribute to increased dementia risk. Individuals with both risk factors (slow walking pace and APOE-ε4 allele) show the strongest associations with dementia risk.
Physics-based electromigration analysis and mitigation for long-term reliability of VLSI interconnects
Authors: Αξελού Ολυμπία-Κερασία
Published: January 2025

Η κλιμάκωση της τεχνολογίας κατασκευής των ολοκληρωμένων κυκλωμάτων (Integrated Circuits – ICs), σε συνδυασμό με την ανάγκη για πιο ισχυρά συστήματα, οδηγεί σε εξαιρετικά πολύπλοκα κυκλώματα. Αυτή η αυξημένη πολυπλοκότητα έχει φέρει τις προκλήσεις μακροπρόθεσμης αξιοπιστίας στο προσκήνιο για την τρέχουσα και την επόμενη γενιά ICs, ιδιαίτερα σε κρίσιμες εφαρμογές όπως η αυτοκινητοβιομηχανία και η αεροδιαστημική, όπου ακόμη και μικρές βλάβες μπορούν να έχουν σοβαρές συνέπειες. Με την πάροδο του χρόνου, τα προβλήματα γήρανσης και μακροπρόθεσμης φθοράς οδηγούν σε μείωση της απόδοσης των ICs σε βάθος χρόνου, και στη χειρότερη περίπτωση σε λανθασμένη λειτουργία ή καταστροφή. Μεταξύ αυτών των ζητημάτων μακροπρόθεσμης αξιοπιστίας, το φαινόμενο της ηλεκτρομετανάστευσης (Electromigration - EM) σε δίκτυα μεταφοράς ισχύος (power grids) και σε διασυνδέσεις αγωγών (interconnects) απαιτεί ιδιαίτερη προσοχή. Αυτά τα στοιχεία αποτελούν κρίσιμες υπομονάδες, υπεύθυνες για την παροχή σταθερής ισχύος σε όλο το IC, αλλά είναι ιδιαίτερα ευάλωτα στην Ηλεκτρομετανάστευση λόγω των υψηλών πυκνοτήτων ρεύματος που υποστηρίζουν. Το φαινόμενο ΕΜ εμφανίζεται όταν θετικά ιόντα χαλκού "μεταναστεύουν" από την κάθοδο στην άνοδο, κατά μήκος της κατεύθυνσης του ρεύματος, προκαλώντας αλλαγές στην πυκνότητα του υλικού που οδηγούν σε έλλειμμα και συσσώρευση χαλκού αντίστοιχα. Με την πάροδο του χρόνου, αυτό αυξάνει την αντίσταση των αγωγών και μπορεί να οδηγήσει σε ανοιχτά κυκλώματα σε κρίσιμα σημεία. Συνεπώς, ο έλεγχος αυτού του προβλήματος αποτελεί βασικό μέρος των τελικών (sign-off) ελέγχων κατά την παραγωγή ενός IC, παρόλο που οι σχετικές μέθοδοι είναι εμπειρικές, πλέον ανακριβείς και συχνά εσφαλμένες, μιας και έχουν σχεδιαστεί για κυκλώματα παλαιότερης γενιάς. Η διατριβή αυτή επικεντρώνεται στην ανάλυση του προβλήματος ΕΜ μέσω της ενσωμάτωσης σύγχρονων μοντέλων φυσικής με αποδοτικούς αλγόριθμους όπως και στην εξομάλυνση αυτού χρησιμοποιώντας έξυπνους αλγορίθμους. Αντιμετωπίζει τους περιορισμούς των υπαρχουσών τεχνικών εισάγοντας μια νέα μεθοδολογία για ολοκληρωμένη ανάλυση EM πριν και μετά την εμφάνιση κενών (pre- and post- void analysis), αξιοποιώντας τη δομή του πίνακα συντελεστών για ακριβή προσδιορισμό του χρόνου και της θέσης δημιουργίας κενών. Επιπλέον, παρουσιάζει μια αριθμητική μέθοδο που χρησιμοποιεί τεχνικές θεωρίας συστημάτων για την αποδοτική διαχείριση μεγάλων μοντέλων διασυνδέσεων. Αναπτύσσει μια προηγμένη στρατηγική μείωσης του EM χρησιμοποιώντας αλγορίθμους υπολογιστικής νοημοσύνης για τη βελτιστοποίηση του μεγέθους των καλωδίων, ενισχύοντας την αξιοπιστία του IC ενώ μειώνει τη συνολική κατανάλωση χώρου. Τέλος, η έρευνα κορυφώνεται με την ανάπτυξη του PROTON, ενός εργαλείου ανοικτού κώδικα που ενσωματώνει αυτές τις μεθοδολογίες ανάλυσης στις βιομηχανικές ροές σχεδίασης, παρέχοντας μια ολοκληρωμένη λύση για την αξιολόγηση του EM στα δίκτυα τροφοδοσίας.
Impact of the season and prevalence of intestinal parasitosis at the Notre Dame de l’Espérance University Hospital Center
Authors: Alphonse lufuluabu mpemba , Jean Hubert Tshishimbi kalala , Arsène Tshodi bulanda
Published: January 2025

Background Intestinal parasitoses are one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality in Africa, with a prevalence of 42.18%. The tropical climate in the D.R. Congo provides parasites with an environment conducive to their proliferation. The prevalence rates of intestinal parasitoses remain poorly understood in the D.R. Congo. Objective This study aims to estimate the overall and specific prevalence of intestinal parasitosis and to determine an association between intestinal parasitosis and the season. Methods From January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2021, patients for whom a direct stool examination was requested at the Notre Dame de l’Espérance University Hospital Center were included in this study. Stool samples were collected and examined under an optical microscope. Results During the period of the study, we recorded 187 patients aged 2 to 77 years. The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was 75.40%. The specific prevalence rates for parasites were as follows: Entamoeba H., the most common, with a prevalence of 55.08%, followed by Trichomonas I. and Giardia L. with respective prevalence rates of 9.09% and 6.24%. Ascaris L. had a prevalence of 27.81%, followed by Schistosoma M., Ankylostoma D., and Enterobius V. with respective prevalence rates of 3.74%, 1.60%, and 1.07%. There was no association between the season and the overall prevalence of intestinal parasitosis. Conclusion The prevalence of intestinal parasitosis was higher during the dry season. There is no statistically valid association between the season and the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis.
DAMAGE TO THE MUSCULOSKELETAL SYSTEM IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETES MELLITUS
Authors: Hochenkova A. , Belyaeva Elena
Published: January 2025

In recent decades, there has been a steady increase in the prevalence of diabetes worldwide, including in Russia. Great attention is traditionally paid to micro- and macrovascular complications in diabetes mellitus, however, with prolonged and/or severe course, it is possible to involve other organs, including the musculoskeletal system. In diabetes mellitus, all components of the musculoskeletal system are affected: muscles, bones and connective tissue structures.
An increased prevalence of disabling musculoskeletal diseases is noted among people with diabetes mellitus compared to the general population.
Selected issues of the pathogenesis of anemic syndrome in rheumatological patients
Authors: Zhidkova E. , Belyaeva Elena
Published: January 2025

Anemia, which is a condition associated with a decrease in hemoglobin levels in the blood, is often found in patients with rheumatological diseases. An important point is to understand the pathogenesis of anemia characteristic of this category of patients (anemia of chronic disease, hemolytic, iron deficiency, hypoplastic, and others), to identify their main causes, pathognomonic symptoms, methods of di-agnosis and treatment.
Understanding the pathogenesis of anemia is necessary to choose the optimal in-dividual methods of their correction, due to the pronounced negative effect of anemia on the course of the underlying disease, the quality of life of patients, and the tolerability of basic therapy. Early detection and correction of anemia are im-portant for improving the general condition of patients with chronic rheumatological diseases and preventing life-threatening complications.
The Role of Gut Microbiota in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Porwolik Hanna , Porwolik Agnieszka , Bodera Magdalena , Szydłowski Radosław , Porwolik Agata , Skrzypiec Barbara , Hamerla Anna , Kaźmierska Anna , Gawron Julia
Published: January 2025

Introduction: The gut microbiota is a key component of the gut-brain axis, and its dysbiosis promotes neuroinflammation. The microbiome plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases. This article focuses on Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases.
Materials and methods: PubMed and Google Scholar databases were searched using the keywords: "gut microbiota," "neurodegenerative diseases," "probiotics," and "fecal microbiota transplantation." A selection of relevant materials was then analyzed.
Aim of the study: The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of the gut microbiota on the development of neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and to explore the possibility of slowing their progression or improving their treatment by subjecting the microbiota to change.
Description of the state of knowledge: Targeting the gut microbiota represents a novel avenue for managing NDDs. Therapeutic strategies focusing on microbiota modulation, including probiotics and FMT, show significant potential. Further research is essential to validate these approaches and optimize personalized treatments for AD and PD.
Results: Gut microbiota dysbiosis was found to significantly contribute to the progression of AD and PD diseases by promoting neuroinflammation, disrupting the blood-brain barrier, and altering neurotransmitter levels. Probiotics, particularly Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains and FMT showed potential in restoring microbial balance and reducing inflammation and improved cognitive and motor functions. Despite these promising findings, clinical evidence remains limited, and further research is necessary.
Malignant melanoma of the ear - a literature review of a rare otological tumor
Authors: Dardzińska Nicol , Dziedziak Marta , Grzegorczyk Aleksandra , Hopej Natalia , Korus Justyna
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this article is to raise awareness of a malignant melanoma which is usually associated with a location on the exposed skin and occurs rarely in the area of the ear. Ear as an organ is divided into three parts - external, middle and inner ear. In each of these parts the process of carcinogenesis can occur. The tumor develops from mutated melanocytes. External ear melanoma contributes for only about 1% of all cutaneous melanoma and occurs mostly to people over the age of 60. Lesions in this area should raise concern and a detailed differential diagnosis should be implemented. The main treatment method is surgery, however due to rarity of the tumour no standard approach has been presented. A rarer location is malignant melanoma in the middle and inner ear, which can extend to the Eaustachian tube. There are barely a few cases described in the English literature so far. Symptoms include ear discharge, hearing impairment, and a sensation of fullness in the affected ear. As well as in the tumor of the external ear, also in this case, there are no standard procedures. However it is suggested to choose the surgical approach that can be combined with both radiotherapy and chemotherapy. The prognosis remains poor despite the significant development of medicine.
Comparison of the Influence of Vegetarian and Mediterranean Diets on the Formation of Kidney Stones
Authors: Samuła Sebastian , Mazur Michał , Waz Dorota , Szarłowicz Jakub , Goliszek Zofia , Sobek Karolina Łucja , Tabin-Barczak Wiktoria , Sokołowska Aldona , Fikas Klaudia , Chwaliszewski Kamil
Published: January 2025

Introduction and Purpose:
Kidney stone disease is a significant global health concern with increasing prevalence worldwide. Diet plays a critical role in both the prevention and development of this condition. The aim of this study was to compare the impact of vegetarian and Mediterranean diets on the risk of kidney stone formation, focusing on the metabolic mechanisms and nutritional composition of each diet.
Materials and Methods:
The review is based on a detailed analysis of peer-reviewed studies from major scientific databases such as PubMed. The selected studies focus on the mechanisms of kidney stone formation, the influence of nutritional factors on this process, and the nutritional profiles of vegetarian and Mediterranean diets.
Results:
The vegetarian diet, rich in citrate, magnesium, and potassium, demonstrates urine-alkalizing properties that counteract kidney stone formation. Reducing meat intake in this diet lowers the risk of hyperuricosuria and uric acid stone formation. However, the vegan version of the vegetarian diet, which excludes dairy, may increase the risk of oxalate stones due to reduced calcium intake. Conversely, the Mediterranean diet offers a more balanced approach, combining the benefits of high fruit, vegetable, olive oil, and whole grain consumption with moderate intake of dairy, fish, and poultry. The presence of polyphenols in olive oil and the anti-inflammatory properties of this diet further support metabolic health and reduce the risk of kidney stones.
Conclusion:
The Mediterranean diet appears more effective in reducing kidney stone risk due to its flexibility and broader range of health benefits. It combines the advantages of the vegetarian diet with additional benefits provided by dairy, healthy fats, and moderate animal protein intake. Its comprehensive preventive effects and adaptability to patient needs make it a valuable dietary model for kidney stone prevention and management.
Teorías cinematográficas de campo y estudios culturales: un vínculo intrínseco.
Authors: López Delacruz Santiago
Published: January 2025

El trabajo se propone indagar, en el ámbito de la investigación en comunicación, en las carácterísticas constitutivas de las teorías cinematográficas de campo, clasificadas como un nuevo
paradigma de estudio por Francesco Casetti, desde el aporte fundacional realizado por los estudios culturales. Surgidas y consolidadas en el último cuarto del siglo xx, las teorías de campo
se preguntan sobre las mútiples problemáticas sociales, culturales e ideológicas que surgen en
la sociedad y se insertan discurivamente en el cine, a la par que reflexionan sobre los procesos
de representación, desigualdad y poder que poseen los discursos cinematográficos. A través de
sus tres rasgos esenciales, que implican cambios en la relación observador-objeto observado,
la formulación de preguntas adecuadas y la atención a los textos concretos, reconoceremos la
influencia de los estudios culturales en la conformación del paradigma de las teorías de campo,
afincada en la posición interpretativa del espectador, el análisis cinematográfico con fines socioculturales y la mirada crítico-reflexiva sobre el cine y su condición como medio de comunicación
masivo y hegemónico.
Música para la publicidad turística de Sevilla: análisis musivisual de los spots promocionales emitidos en YouTube en 2020, 2021 y 2022.
Authors: Rodríguez López Rafael Ángel
Published: January 2025

La música es una de las herramientas más importantes para crear y acompañar un spot turístico
que se promociona en plataformas digitales como YouTube. De hecho, dentro de todos los elementos audiovisuales que conforman la estructura del formato de video de la citada red social, la
música posee la virtud de conducir y describir las imágenes que aparecen en él. Esta asociación
entre el componente musical y el contenido visual enriquece la experiencia del espectador fortaleciendo, a su vez, el mensaje y la atmósfera del spot. De manera que el presente estudio tiene
como objetivo principal identificar los tipos, usos y funciones de la música utilizados para la promoción turística de la ciudad de Sevilla, todo ello bajo el marco de una metodología de análisis
musivisual, de carácter cualitativa y cuantitativa, aplicada sobre los seis spots con mayor número
de reproducciones emitidos por el canal de YouTube Turismo Sevilla TV, entre 2020 y 2022. Los
resultados muestran que, en la totalidad de los anuncios analizados, la música es de procedencia
extradiegética y presenta un alto grado de sincronización entre los elementos visuales y sonoros,
lo que sugiere un uso estratégico de la música para reforzar el mensaje publicitario.
Ser autor y lector: escribirse a sí mismo. Aplicar la escritura en la consultoría filosófica.
Authors: Pineda Casas Miguel Camilo
Published: January 2025

El propósito de este texto es presentar a la escritura como un acto
filosófico que permite el encuentro y el diálogo consigo mismo, y que también
permite abrir paso a la creatividad y la reflexión filosófica. Así, al aplicarla en la
consultoría filosófica la escritura enriquece el acto filosófico, pues facilita el
encuentro de la dimensión creativa y la dimensión crítica. Por medio de los
ejercicios de escritura el consultante recurre a su experiencia, emociones, ideas y
creencias para concretarlas, organizarlas y fijarlas en palabras por medio de la
escritura, propio de la dimensión crítica; pero también podría recurrir a su libertad
e imaginación para explorar nuevas posibilidades, proponer nuevas perspectivas,
o relaciones entre ideas, abriendo paso a la dimensión creativa. Este texto también
presenta ejemplos de ejercicios de escritura realizados durante algunas sesiones y
expone el impacto que tuvieron en el desarrollo de la misma.
La filosofía para niños/as como aproximación a la Agenda 2030. La necesidad de una ciudadanía cosmopolita, crítica y compasiva.
Authors: Orts García María
Published: January 2025

Actualmente laten una serie de desafíos éticos que, inevitablemente
resuenan en el panorama educativo. Algunos de estos desafíos se manifiestan y
quedan patentes en la Agenda 2030 mediante los diferentes Objetivos de
Desarrollo Sostenible. Bajo nuestro punto de vista, será necesaria una concepción
cosmopolita para, desde la educación, poder aproximarse a la magnitud de tales
objetivos. Pero no solo eso. Se requerirá también de capacidad crítica y compasiva.
¿Qué estrategias educativas y pedagógicas pueden enmarcarse en este contexto de
educación y ciudadanía mundial? ¿Puede algún constructo metodológico permitir
la aproximación a la Agenda 2030? La apuesta aquí será la Filosofía para niños
como un proyecto educativo capaz de encauzarnos hacia la reflexión y
consecución de los Objetivos de Desarrollo Sostenible.
Applying Critical Thinking in Differentiating Between Factual and Fake News: A Guide for Educators.
Authors: Nurfazri Muhammad , Kurniawati Nia , SISWAYANI PREDARI
Published: January 2025

In this notional research, we provided a guide for educators to use
critical thinking (CT) to (1) critically assess their teaching, (2) direct forthcoming
interactions with students, and (3) instruct students to empower themselves by
critically analyzing texts and media. To develop this concept, we leveraged the
cores of CT by Erstad in Fatiha (2021), CT questions by Paul and Elder (2019),
and steps of teaching CT by Chernyak in Kiki (2019). Besides, the use of news
containing controversy was predicted to enable students’ CT skills and became
an authentic material. In addition, the process of teaching CT was done in three
parts: a) encouraging students to have an open mind, b) helping students make
connections, and c) teaching students about reliable information. Also, the cores of CT consisted of a) identification skills (the problem raised and the author’s
purpose), b) identifying the bias, and c) making an inference. Thus, this study
dispenses an alternative model of teaching CT, especially in Indonesia context
La cumbre de los neuroderechos no humanos: una reflexión bioética sobre la dicotomía existencial robot humanizado y humano robotizado.
Authors: Diaz Navarro David Ernesto
Published: January 2025

El objetivo de esta investigación es analizar, desde tres dimensiones,
los derechos del ser humano, en contraste con los derechos de las máquinas: (1) la inteligencia natural frente a la inteligencia artificial, (2)
el aspecto intelectivo (sense) y el aspecto emotivo (sensibility) de la
razón y (3) el aspecto de la corporalidad cibernética de los androides,
respecto de la corporalidad orgánica de los seres humanos (incluidos,
claro está, los cíborgs). La delimitación implica cuestionar hasta qué punto es plausible predicar derechos (o, si se prefiere, ciberderechos) a la máquina, sobre el fundamento de que ésta posee una razón equivalente o superior a la del ser humano.
De dos a una. El pabellón alemán en la EXPO'92 de Sevilla.
Authors: Mesa-Cedillo David
Published: January 2025

El presente artículo realiza un estudio exhaustivo sobre los diferentes pabellones de representación
de Alemania producidos con motivo de la EXPO’92 de Sevilla. Al inicio del proceso, el contexto
alemán estaba dividido en dos estados que se reuni!carían coincidiendo con la inauguración del
evento en la isla de la Cartuja. Esto comportó que Alemania fuese el único país que presentó
tres pabellones distintos para Sevilla. Los sucesos acontecidos durante el desarrollo del proyecto
transcienden la microhistoria del pabellón, revelando las tensiones sufridas por la propia sociedad
capitalista en un momento problemático para el mantenimiento de los estados nacionales frente
a la internacionalización de los mercados. Además, la Reuni!cación de Alemania coincide con
la caída del Telón de Acero y el !n de la división entre los bloques occidental y oriental. En
clave española, los eventos del 92 ―la EXPO en Sevilla, los Juegos Olímpicos en Barcelona y
la Cumbre Iberoamericana en Madrid― culminaron el proceso de transición iniciado en el
1975. Para la reconstrucción histórica del pabellón se han visitado diferentes archivos de ámbito
nacional e internacional: el Archivo General de Andalucía, los Archivos Federales de BerlínLichterfelde y Coblenza, el archivo IRS de Erkner, el Archiv der Moderne de la Universidad
Bauhaus de Weimar y el archivo Saai del Karlsruher Institut für Technologie. Con todos estos
materiales, el estudio trata de realizar una lectura crítica de las diferentes propuestas que permita
entender tanto el fenómeno arquitectónico como el contexto histórico en el que acontece.
Juan Guas y la obra del Palacio del Infantado en su contexto constructivo: intervenciones y restauraciones de un edificio finimedieval (Siglos XVI-XVIII).
Authors: Romero Medina Raúl , Marías Fernando
Published: January 2025

Este trabajo revisa la documentación de la fábrica del palacio del Infantado para analizar la
intervención llevada a cabo en el siglo XV por el maestro francés Juan Guas y la contextualiza en
el conjunto de sus empresas constructivas. La ruina que experimentó el patio poco después de
levantarse evidencia que no fue la única quiebra en las obras de este arquitecto del tardogótico.
Así, las intervenciones y obras de los siglos XV y XVI no lograron solucionar el problema
teniendo que ser restaurado en los siglos XVII y XVIII, a partir de la nueva documentación que
se aporta.