bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FADN/FSDN as a Tool for Accounting, Information and Statistical Support of Ukraine's State Agrarian Policy in the Context of European Integration
Authors:   "Institute of Agrarian Economics" National Scientific Centre, Kyiv, Ukraine, Zhuk Valerii , Vasylishyn Stanislav ,   "Institute of Agrarian Economics" National Scientific Centre, Kyiv, Ukraine, Nezhyd Yuliia ,   "Institute of Agrarian Economics" National Scientific Centre, Kyiv, Ukraine
Published: February 2025

Ukraine's acquisition of the EU candidate status requires the adaptation of the agricultural sector's accounting, information and statistical systems to the EU's pan-European standards. In this context, the FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network) and FSDN (Farm Sustainability Data Network) are key tools for ensuring transparency, accuracy and analytical support of the state agricultural policy. The purpose of the article is to identify the regulatory framework and methodology for building and reporting on FADN/FSDN data networks by EU farms and to substantiate their advantages as a tool for effective accounting, information and statistical support of Ukraine's state agricultural policy in the context of European integration. The article summarises the European experience of using FADN/FSDN as tools for monitoring the agricultural sector's economic efficiency, social aspects and environmental sustainability. The structure, directions and key effects of using FADN in the context of the implementation of the EU Common Agricultural Policy were described. The results of the study indicate that today in Ukraine, there is scattered and underdeveloped statistical support for management in the agricultural sector with a decrease in the number of indicators included in the regulated reporting, which leads to a reduction in the information base and a decrease in the efficiency and effectiveness of management decision-making by both industry structures and other key stakeholders. In addition, the article presents recommendations for adapting FADN/FSDN networks to Ukrainian conditions. The practical value of the study is to create a basis for forming a transparent, reliable, and harmonised system of accounting, information, and statistical support that will support the adoption of sound management decisions in Ukraine's state agricultural policy. The introduction of FADN/FSDN accounting and reporting networks will increase the efficiency of Ukraine's agricultural sector management and ensure compliance with the requirements of European integration.
Propuesta de transformación hacia la Industria 4.0 del monitoreo, inspección y mantenimiento de tanques reservorios de crudo en Ecuador
Authors: Ocaña Pañora Lando Stephen , Chiza Llambo Juan Carlos , Tibanquiza Chuncho Santiago Efrain , Moreno Garzón Geovanny Patricio
Published: February 2025

Introducción. La industria petrolera en Ecuador debe transicional la forma de monitoreo, inspección y mantenimiento de tanques de crudo. Mediante la Industria 4.0, con IoT, IA y sensores inteligentes, se mejora eficiencia y reduce costos. No obstante, existen brechas tecnológicas y económicas de implementación. Se propone un modelo para modernizar y optimizar estos procesos. Objetivo. Plantear los requerimientos técnicos y tecnológicos necesarios para la evolución de los procesos de monitoreo, inspección y mantenimiento en los tanques de crudo en la industria petrolera en Ecuador en Ecuador hacia un modelo basado en los principios de la Industria 4.0, con el fin de optimizar la eficiencia operativa, reducir riesgos ambientales y mejorar la sostenibilidad. Metodología.  El modernizar el monitoreo, inspección y mantenimiento de tanques de crudo hacia Industria 4.0 con IoT, drones y sistemas ciberfísicos normados incluye análisis diagnóstico, definición de requisitos, diseño tecnológico, pruebas piloto y evaluación de impacto. Resultados. El sistema físico y ciberfísico de la Industria 4.0 integra sensores IoT, robots, drones y tecnologías avanzadas. Estimado una inversión de $196,000, con la que se optimiza eficiencia, seguridad y costos operativos, dentro de estándares globales y garantizando sostenibilidad a largo plazo. Conclusión. La implementación de tecnologías de la Industria 4.0 para el monitoreo, inspección y mantenimiento de tanques reservorios de crudo es factible en industrias petroleras de Ecuador, ya que, con una inversión inicial de $196,000, se podría optimizan costos, aumentan la seguridad en operarios y ofrecer un alto retorno de inversión a largo plazo. Área de estudio general: Industria y tecnología. Área de estudio específica: Industria 4.0, Oil & Gas. Tipo de estudio:  Artículo original.
‘My only friend is my charioteer’: Láeg mac Riangabra in Táin Bó Cúailnge
Authors: Longman Finn
Published: February 2025

This paper explores how Cú Chulainn’s charioteer, Láeg mac Riangabra, is portrayed across the three recensions of Táin Bó Cúailnge. I will demonstrate how each recension contains at least one unique Láeg episode, and how small differences in shared scenes emphasise different aspects of his character. In doing so, I will highlight Láeg’s crucial contribution to the story of TBC, the complexities of his characterisation, and his potential to help illuminate the tale’s development.
OPPORTUNITIES AND RISKS OF USING AI-BASED APPLICATIONS IN RESEARCH: THE CASE OF UKRAINIAN UNIVERSITIES
Authors: Borodiyenko Oleksandra , Drach Iryna , Bazeliuk Nataliia , Petroye Olha , Reheilo Iryna , Bazeliuk Oleksandr , Slobodianiuk Olena
Published: February 2025

The study seeks to explore the key opportunities and risks associated with the use of AI-based applications in research conducted by Ukrainian universities.
Findings reveal that the use of AI-based applications among Ukrainian university academic staff is limited. However, we identified certain patterns in how respondents perceive the key opportunities and risks in using AI-based applications in research. These perceptions are largely shaped by expert opinions from mass and social media, as well as scientific literature discussing AI's influence on research. In contrast, respondents' personal experience with AI-based applications plays a lesser role in shaping their views. However, there are notable differences in the experiences of using AI-based applications across various fields of expertise.
Among the most significant opportunities identified by respondents are the ability of AI-based applications to automate routine tasks, gather information from numerous sources, and accelerate the processing of large datasets. However, expectations regarding AI-based applications’ potential to enhance research quality, offer unconventional insights, or detect anomalies and patterns are more limited. Respondents also showed little belief in AI-based applications’ capacity to streamline the research process, improve scientific writing quality, boost research efficiency, or develop new skills for researchers.
Alongside these opportunities, respondents pointed to substantial risks, such as the unreliability of published research findings, compromised research integrity, the unethical use of AI-based applications in generating reviews by dishonest reviewers, and the need for more thorough peer review processes. Concerns also included a potential decline in research quality and an increase in plagiarism cases. However, respondents did not express major concerns regarding ethical issues like data privacy, ghost authorship, or dishonesty and irresponsibility in the use of AI systems.
The results underscore the importance of implementing institutional policies and enhancing the skills of academic staff in using AI-based applications to improve research quality.
UNIVERSITY EFL STUDENTS’ PERCEPTIONS OF SMARTPHONE-ASSISTED LANGUAGE LEARNING
Authors: Metruk Rastislav , Klimszová Slavomíra , Guziurová Tereza
Published: February 2025

Digital technologies exert a powerful impact on all human activity, including education. It appears that mobile learning occupies an influential role in the realms of contemporary language education due to its ubiquity, availability, and increasing popularity. The smartphone, being at the center of attention due to its increasing popularity and availability, represents a new, exciting, and innovative tool for L2 learning. This study aims to contribute to this area by examining the exploitation of smartphones for the purposes of English language learning and practice. A total of 108 research participants (n = 108) from the Czech Republic and Slovak Republic were involved in the study. Their task was to indicate their level of agreement by completing a Likert-scale questionnaire, which consisted of statements about exploiting smartphones for practicing and improving English. The research results demonstrate that overall, the students displayed high and very high levels of agreement with the majority of statements, but were neutral towards several questionnaire items. Moreover, 33 independent sample t-tests revealed that on the whole, no statistically significant differences between the Czech and Slovak students were identified. It can be concluded that students use smartphones to develop various language systems and skills, though to varying degrees, while it is the skill of speaking that is the least practiced and developed skill. Other findings involve the underuse of language learning apps, or participants expressing neutrality about preferring smartphones to laptops or computers. Finally, it is emphasized that further research in this area is urgently needed since this field still appears to be somewhat underexplored as smartphones, their features, and apps are continuously evolving.
AUTOMATIC SCORING OF KNOWLEDGE GAINED AND SHARED THROUGH DISCUSSION FORUMS: BASED ON THE COMMUNITY OF INQUIRY MODEL
Authors: P.A.L. Nadeesha  , T.A. Weerasinghe  , W.R.N.S Abeyweera
Published: February 2025

The Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework has been widely employed for the past two decades to assess the knowledge gained and shared through online discussion forums. The cognitive presence component of the CoI framework helps identify the evidence of thoughtful knowledge reconstructions through meaning-making during inquiry-based learning. Identifying and scoring these cognitive presences is essential for assessing the students’ learning achievements through online discussion forums. Considering the difficulties associated with manual coding and identifying cognitive presences in discussion forums and the limitations in the existing techniques for auto-identifying and scoring cognitive presences, this research attempted to develop a more efficient tool to identify and score cognitive presences in online discussion forums. The research employed the constructive research approach. The methodology integrated Random Forest (RF) classification with TF-IDF feature extraction and Support Vector Machine (SVM) classification with Word2Vec embedding. A rule-based classifier, constructed upon indicator mappings, enriched the classification process. A weighted voting ensemble method was employed to combine the outputs of the individual classifiers. Our approach was trained and tested on two datasets comprising 781 messages containing 47,592 words. This ensemble method demonstrated notable efficacy, achieving a 69% accuracy rate in classification tasks. This highlights the robustness of the combined approach in enhancing classification performance. Furthermore, the study introduces a scoring model that calculates individual student scores based on post categories, enabling detailed evaluations of student engagement and participation. By assigning scores reflective of discussion contributions, this model advances comprehensive assessments of online learning interactions. Our work contributes to the ongoing conversation on leveraging machine learning for cognitive analysis in online learning environments, highlighting the importance of context-specific methodologies in advancing educational assessment practices.
Prevalence of asymptomatic malaria in high- and low-transmission areas of Tanzania: The role of asymptomatic carriers in malaria persistence and the need for targeted surveillance and control efforts
Authors: Mazigo Ernest , Jun Hojong , Lee Wang-Jong , Louis Johnsy Mary , Fitriana Fadhila , Syahada Jadidan Hada , Muh Fauzi , Lu Feng , Ahmed Md Atique , Cha Seok Ho , Chun Wanjoo , Park Won Sun , Lee Se Jin , Na Sunghun , Han Joon-Hee , Kija Nyalali , Geodfrey Smart , Han Eun-Teak , Todd Jim , Manjurano Alphaxard , Kidima Winifrida , Han Jin-Hee
Published: February 2025

As many countries implement different programs aimed at eliminating malaria, attention should be given to asymptomatic carriers that may interrupt the progress. This was a community-based cross-sectional study conducted in Tanzania from December 2022 to July 2023 within 4 villages from each of the 3 regions, Geita and Kigoma, which are high malaria transmission, and Arusha, which is low transmission. Malaria was diagnosed in asymptomatic individuals aged 1 year and older using the malaria rapid diagnostic test and light microscope. A total of 2,365 of 3,489 (67.9%) participants were enrolled from high-transmission villages. The overall prevalence was 25.5% and 15.8% by malaria rapid diagnostic test and light microscope, respectively. Using the respective tools, the prevalence was significantly higher at 35.6% (confidence interval (CI)=23.6–49.9) and 23.1% (CI=16.2–35.1) in the high-transmission regions (Geita and Kigoma) compared with 2.9% (CI=1.1–3.5) and 1.1% (CI=0.7–1.8) in the low-transmission region (Arusha). Children younger than 15 years and males accounted for the greatest proportion of infections. In the study area, the prevalence of asymptomatic cases was higher than that of reported symptomatic cases in health facilities. We hypothesize that these parasite reservoirs may contribute to the persistence of malaria in the country. Therefore, to achieve comprehensive malaria control in the country, the surveillance and screening of asymptomatic malaria cases are vital.
Molecular detection of Toxoplasma gondii in ticks and their respective host dogs
Authors: Seo Min-Goo , Kwak Dongmi
Published: February 2025

We identified the presence of Toxoplasma gondii in ticks and their host dogs, and assess the potential role of ticks as reservoirs for this pathogen. A total of 1,230 feeding ticks were collected from 340 dogs. The tick species identified included Haemaphysalis longicornis, H. flava, and Ixodes nipponensis. Detection of the T. gondii B1 gene occurred in 2 dogs (0.6%) and 4 tick pools (0.9%). Genotyping confirmed the presence of the I/III genotype. This study is the first to report the molecular detection of T. gondii in both canine ticks and their hosts. Our findings offer important insights into the dynamics of T. gondii transmission between vectors and their hosts.
Indian Theology and the Crisis of Indian Secularism
Authors: Beltramini Enrico
Published: February 2025

In this paper I discuss the crisis of Indian secularism and how Roman Catholic Indian theologians address such a crisis. First, I define the crisis as the result of the application of Western illiberal ideas to the distinct reality of Indian secularism. The result is a separation between politics and religion that resembles that in place in the West. I also study Roman Catholic Indian theologians’ distinctive understanding of Indian secularism and the role that it plays in their theology. Their distinctive understanding of Indian secularism plays an important role in their effort to develop an Indian theology that is properly Indian. 1
The Einstein’s Mass-Energy Equivalence relating to Total Energy
Authors: Annamalai Chinnaraji
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the mass-energy equation derived from the sum of kinetic energy and potential energy (rest mass energy). This mass-energy equation is related to the Einstein’s mass-energy equivalence noted in the special theory of relativity.
Perbandingan Metode Naive Bayes Dan Support Vector Machine (SVM) Pada Analisis Kendaraan Listrik Pada Media Sosial “X”
Authors: Wantoro Agus , Saputra Dani , Damayanti  , Permatan  , Rusliyawati
Published: February 2025

Kendaraan listrik merupakan kendaraan yang menggunakan satu atau lebih motor listrik atau motor traksi sebagai tenaga penggeraknya. Kendaraan listrik saat ini menjadi tren global sebagai alternatif kendaraan berbahan bakar fosil atau bahan bakar minyak (BBM). Peralihan dari kendaraan berbahan bakar minyak ke kendaraan listrik menjadi salah satu solusi efektif karena kendaraan listrik memiliki beberapa keunggulan dibanding kendaraan BBM. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis sentimen publik terhadap kemunculan kendaraan listrik pada media “X” dan melakukan perbandingan kinerja algoritma klasifikasi. Data sentimen selanjutnya akan dilakukan klasifikasi menggunakan metode Naïve Bayes dan Support Vector Machine (SVM). Pengelolaan data menggunakan bahasa pemrograman python dan google Collaboratory. Tahapan penelitian ini meliputi crawling, labelling, pre-processing, klasifikasi metode, dan visualisasi. Berdasarkan 2615 data yang telah dikumpulkan, selanjutnya dilakukan preprocessing, dan cleaning data sehingga. Hasil cleaning didapatkan 1245 data yang akan dilakukan klasifikasi. Dataset dibagi menjadi dua, yaitu data latih dan data uji. Berdasarkan data latih, selanjutnya dilakukan pelabelan data menghasilkan 57,16% data positif sebanyak 30,02 data netral, dan 17,83 data negatif. Hasil perbandingan klasifikasi menunjukkan bahwa metode Naïve Bayes memiliki akurasi sebesar 66%, sedangkan metode Support Vector Machine (SVM) sebesar 93%. Metode Support Vector Machine (SVM) terbukti lebih unggul untuk analisis data dibandingkan dengan metode Naïve Bayes. Selain itu berdasarkan data pengguna “X” lebih banyak yang memberikan respon positif terhadap kendaraan listrik
Implementasi Metode EDAS dan Pembobotan ROC untuk Pemilihan Destinasi Wisata Ramah Pengunjung di Indonesia
Authors: Ahmad Muqoffa  , Bima Aditya Mahendra  , Putri Sinta Anggraeni  , Agusta Praba Ristadi Pinem
Published: February 2025

Penelitian ini mengkaji penerapan sistem pendukung keputusan (SPK) untuk menentukan destinasi wisata yang ramah pengunjung di Indonesia. Permasalahan utama yang diidentifikasi adalah kebutuhan akan mekanisme pemilihan destinasi wisata yang tidak hanya berdasarkan popularitas, tetapi juga mempertimbangkan aspek kenyamanan, keamanan, serta fasilitas pendukung yang memadai. Untuk menjawab permasalahan tersebut, penelitian ini menggunakan metode Evaluation Based on Distance from Average Solution (EDAS) untuk mengevaluasi alternatif destinasi berdasarkan kriteria yang telah ditetapkan. Pembobotan dilakukan menggunakan metode Rank Order Centroid (ROC) untuk menjamin objektivitas dalam menentukan prioritas kriteria. Dalam penelitian ini, kriteria yang digunakan meliputi izin operasional, ketersediaan fasilitas wisata, penerapan konsep 3R, sistem ramah lingkungan, sistem pengolahan limbah, serta sistem penyediaan air bersih. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa Provinsi Jawa Barat berhasil menempati peringkat pertama sebagai destinasi wisata paling ramah pengunjung, dengan nilai hasil akhir tertinggi sebesar 0,997. Selain itu, analisis korelasi yang dihasilkan menunjukkan terdapat korelasi positif yang signifikan antara hasil peringkat dengan data jumlah pengunjung, yang memperkuat validitas dan efektivitas pendekatan yang digunakan. Penelitian ini memberikan manfaat praktis bagi wisatawan dalam memilih destinasi wisata yang berkualitas berdasarkan kriteria yang relevan. Di sisi lain, hasil penelitian ini juga menjadi acuan bagi pengelola destinasi wisata dalam meningkatkan kualitas layanan dan fasilitas agar lebih sesuai dengan kebutuhan pengunjung.
Persepsi Kader Posyandu Tentang “Titip Kanyaah Ka Indung” Sebagai Program Inovasi Kesehatan Ibu Hamil
Authors: Kusumahati Evi , Sukmayati Maya , Nurmawati Rita
Published: February 2025

Kebutuhan sistem informasi Posyandu yang modern semakin mendesak. Namun, adopsiaplikasi digital sering kali terkendala pemahaman dan keterampilan penggunaannya,sehingga belum sepenuhnya menjawab tantangan yang ada. Oleh karena itu, diperlukanstrategi pemberdayaan kader Posyandu agar lebih efektif dan disiplin dalam menjalankantugas. Salah satu inovasi yang diterapkan adalah program “Titip Kanyaah ka Indung”(TKI) oleh Puskesmas Ibrahim Aji. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui persepsikader Posyandu terhadap program TKI sebagai inovasi dalam kesehatan ibu hamil.Menggunakan pendekatan kualitatif dengan metode studi kasus, penelitian ini melibatkan13 kader Posyandu yang dipilih melalui purposive sampling. Pengumpulan data dilakukanpada April–Desember 2023 melalui wawancara mendalam dan observasi, serta dianalisismenggunakan model Miles dan Huberman. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa 62%kader berusia 30–47 tahun, 62% berpendidikan terakhir SMA, dan 69% adalah iburumah tangga. Sebagian besar kader memiliki persepsi positif terhadap program TKIkarena memudahkan pelaporan kasus ibu hamil kepada bidan atau Puskesmas. Namun,diperlukan sosialisasi lebih lanjut untuk memastikan pemahaman yang tepat serta prosesadaptasi agar sesuai dengan metode pelaporan sebelumnya
Coenzyme Q10 alleviates neurological deficits in a mouse model of intracerebral hemorrhage by reducing inflammation and apoptosis
Authors: Yang Xiaoqing , Zhao Yi , Yu Sisi , Chi Lihui , Cai Yeyan
Published: February 2025

This research study was directed towards to assessing whether coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) is linked to neuroprotection and induces anti-inflammatory and anti-neuronal death responses in an Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) mouse model via right caudate nucleus injection with collagenase VII. Autologous blood was injected into mice to induce ICH. We found that FoxM1 was upregulated in the ICH-injured animals. Moreover, CoQ10 treatment effectively ameliorated neurological deficits, mitigated cerebral edema, and minimized hematoma in model mice, demonstrating dose-dependent efficacy and promoting the functional recovery of the animals. ELISA and real-time PCR assays of pro-inflammatory cytokines indicated that CoQ10 was capable of alleviating neuroinflammation in ICH. In line with the part of CoQ10 in attenuating the inflammatory response, CoQ10 also suppressed cell apoptosis in the ICH-injured brain, which partly accounts for its neuroprotective effect. Furthermore, our analysis of different inflammatory pathways indicated that CoQ10 targeted the nuclear factor-kappa B signaling axis. Our findings suggest that CoQ10 protects against ICH by mitigating neuroinflammatory responses and preventing neuronal apoptosis, with the underlying mechanism possibly being connected with nuclear factor-kappa B pathway regulation. Therefore, CoQ10 holds significant potential as a therapeutic strategy for treating ICH.
Dysregulated biosynthesis and hydrolysis of cyclic-di-adenosine monophosphate impedes sporulation and butanol and acetone production in Clostridium beijerinckii NCIMB 8052
Authors: Awaga-Cromwell Marian M. , Kumar Santosh , Truong Hieu M. , Agyeman-Duah Eric , Okonkwo Christopher C. , Ujor Victor C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Although solventogenic Clostridium species (SCS) produce butanol, achieving high enough titers to warrant commercialization of biobutanol remains elusive. Thus, deepening our understanding of the intricate cellular wiring of SCS is crucial to unearthing new targets and strategies for engineering novel strains capable of producing and tolerating greater concentrations of butanol.

Methods

This study investigated the potential role of cyclic-di-adenosine monophosphate (c-di-AMP) in regulating solvent biosynthesis in C. beijerinckii NCIMB 8052. Genes for c-di-AMP-producing and degrading enzymes [DNA integrity scanning protein A (disA) and phosphodiesterase (pde), respectively] were cloned in this organism and the recombinant strains were characterized relative to the control strain.

Results

Plasmid-borne expression of disA in C. beijerinckii led to a 1.83-fold increase in c-di-AMP levels and near complete (∼100%) inhibition of butanol and acetone biosynthesis. Conversely, c-di-AMP concentrations in the pde-expressing strain reduced 7.54-fold relative to the control with 4.20- and 2.3-fold reductions in butanol and acetone concentrations, respectively, when compared to the control strain. Relative to the control and the pde-expressing strains, the disA-expressing strain produced 1.50- and 1.90-fold more ethanol, respectively. Enzyme activity assays show that core solvent biosynthesis enzymes are mostly inhibited in vitro by exogenously supplemented c-di-AMP (50 nM). Both recombinant strains of C. beijerinckii are impaired for sporulation, particularly the disA-expressing strain.

Discussion

Collectively, the results show that dysregulated production and hydrolysis of c-di-AMP severely impair butanol and acetone biosynthesis in C. beijerinckii, suggesting broader roles of this second messenger in the regulation of solventogenesis and likely, sporulation in this organism.
Perclose ProGlide closure devices vs. surgical removal for veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation decannulation: a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Qian , Guo Ke , Liu Yunping , Wei Wei , Zhao Kan , Huang Haijun , Yao Zuoyi
Published: February 2025

Objective

Perclose ProGlide closure devices (PPCDs) have become a more commonly used strategy in veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) decannulation, but there is still uncertainty regarding their efficacy and safety compared to surgical removal (SR). Therefore, we conducted a meta-analysis to compare the application results of the two methods in VA-ECMO decannulation.

Methods

Data from PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE databases were systematically searched through May 2024. Prospective or retrospective studies on the comparison of PPCDs and SR in VA-ECMO decannulation were included. The outcomes included technical success, bleeding events, infections at the decannulation site, vascular complications, overall complications, mortality and duration of hospitalisation.

Results

Eight retrospective studies involving 618 patients were included. The results demonstrated that PPCDs significantly reduced infections at the decannulation site and overall complications [odds ratio (OR) = 0.14, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.05–0.44, P < 0.001], (OR = 0.27, 95% CI 0.16–0.48, P < 0.001). No significant differences were observed in the incidence rates of bleeding events, vascular complications, mortality and duration of hospitalisation between the two groups (P > 0.05). Subgroup analysis revealed that the SR group had a significantly higher risk of the removal site infection compared to the percutaneous pre-closure group (OR = 0.06, 95% CI 0.01–0.29, P = 0.0003).

Conclusion

Pre-closure techniques utilizing PPCDs demonstrate a significant advantage over SR in reducing the overall incidence of complications for VA-ECMO decannulation, particularly in terms of reducing infections at the decannulation site.
Instant termination as a novel indicator for prognosis of persistent atrial fibrillation during cryoballoon ablation: a propensity score-matched analysis
Authors: Fan Youqi , Ye Jian , Wang Xiaoya , Song Liuguang , Zhang Yu , Wang Yaping
Published: February 2025

Background

Instant atrial fibrillation termination (AFT) during radiofrequency ablation has been suggested as a predictor of prognosis in persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, its role in cryoballoon ablation remains unclear. This study investigated the association between AFT and recurrent atrial tachyarrhythmia in patients with persistent AF undergoing cryoballoon ablation.

Methods

Patients with non-valvular, drug-resistant, persistent AF who underwent cryoballoon ablation between January 2021 and June 2023 were included and categorized based on the presence or absence of AFT. Propensity score matching (PSM) was applied to eliminate covariate imbalances. Baseline characteristics, procedural details, and clinical outcomes were compared between the groups.

Results

A total of 189 patients [65.0 (59.0–71.0) years] were included. Among them, 41 experienced instant AFT, while 148 remained in AF rhythm. The baseline conditions were similar, except that patients with AFT presented significantly lower left atrial diameter (LAD). During a follow-up of 16.0 [9.1–26.9] months, the recurrence rates of arrhythmias were significantly lower in the AFT group (log-rank P = 0.044). Both AFT [HR: 0.298, 95% CI: (0.091–0.976), P = 0.035] and baseline LAD [HR: 1.079, 95% CI: (1.012–1.151), P = 0.021] were independent predictors of recurrence. We further assessed the prognostic value of AFT in PSM groups which showed that the recurrence rates were also significantly lower in the AFT group (log-rank P = 0.049).

Conclusion

Instant AFT during cryoballoon ablation is associated with a reduced risk of arrhythmic recurrence in patients with persistent AF.
A teacher leadership model validation for in-service teachers
Authors: Akkaraputtapong Panya , Nguyen Hoa Thi Mai , Ngo Ha Thanh , Ngo Nga Thi Hang
Published: February 2025

Teachers as leaders in schools have been widely advocated, as they increasingly act as agents of change in education reforms and directly impact students’ outcomes. Developing teacher leadership is critically important for both students and the school’s development. However, teacher leadership is a complex and context-dependent concept and can result in a lack of common language to guide relevant policies and practices. This study aimed to validate a Western model of teacher leadership and develop a Teacher Leadership Scale (TLS) to capture teachers’ leadership perceptions in a non-Western context. Data were collected via a questionnaire from 538 in-service teachers in an Asian context The EFA results (n = 260) yielded a five-factor scale structure, and the CFA results (n = 278) showed that the first-order model (CFI = 0.967, RMSEA = 0.062, SRMR = 0.044, X2/df=2.080) and second-order model (CFI = 0.959, RMSEA = 0.068, SRMR = 0.050, X2/df=2.287) of the five-factor TLS adequately fit the data. The Cronbach’s alphas indicated strong reliability. The study provides empirical evidence that the TLS is valid for gaging teacher leadership among in-service teachers and suggests implications for using the scale as a guide for reflection and development. It also makes a theoretical contribution by unveiling that teacher leadership perceptions may differ between Western and non-Western contexts.
The crucial role of hypertension in determining latent classes of metabolic syndrome in northern Iran and predictive power of these classes in non-alcoholic fatty liver: a gender-based insight
Authors: Amirkalali Bahareh , Hassanzadeh Parvin , Sheikholmolooki Fatemeh , Gholizadeh Esmaeel , Doustmohammadian Azam , Safarnezhad Tameshkel Fahimeh , Motamed Nima , Maadi Mansooreh , Sohrabi Masoudreza , Sobhrakhshankhah Elham , Zamani Farhad , Ajdarkosh Hossein
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the subclasses of metabolic syndrome (Mets) and their relationship with non-alcoholic fatty liver (NAFLD) and the probable predictive role of serum vitamin D and CRP levels.

Methods

This community-based, cross-sectional study was performed on adults in the framework of the Amol cohort prospective study (AmolCPS). Mets was defined as Adult Treatment Panel III criteria (ATP III) and ultrasound was used to diagnose NAFLD. Anthropometric and blood pressure measurements were conducted, and biochemical measurements were assessed after fasting. Data analysis included Latent class analysis, two-tailed χ2 statistics, one-way analysis of variance, and logistic regression using Mplus (version 7.4) and spss (version 26) softwares.

Results

The study involved 2308 participants, with a mean age of 43.17 ± 12.30 years. Mets prevalence was 25.64%, with three identified classes: Mets with Hypertension (HTN), Mets without HTN (Non-HTN), and Low Risk. Mets with HTN had a high probability of at least four components, particularly high SBP. Non-HTN had at least three high probable components, especially high TG and low HDL but not high SBP and DBP. The low-risk class had a low probability of all components except low HDL in women. Serum vitamin D and CRP levels did not significantly predict Mets classes in men, while CRP level significantly predicted the HTN class in women (OR:1.03, CI:1.004-1.067). Both HTN, and Non-HTN Mets classes significantly increased the odds of NAFLD compared to the low risk class, especially in women (HTN class OR: 4.20 vs 2.94; non-HTN class OR: 5.60 vs 3.12 in women and men respectively).

Conclusion

The latent class analysis in northern Iran identified three Mets classes: HTN, Non-HTN, and low-risk, with hypertension playing a crucial role in determining these classes. These classes were stronger predictors of NAFLD in women. Serum CRP and vitamin D levels did not emerge as significant predictors of the classes, except for serum CRP in the HTN class among women.
Can whole genome sequencing resolve taxonomic ambiguities in fungi? The case study of Colletotrichum associated with ferns
Authors: Menicucci Andrea , Iacono Salvatore , Ramos Madalena , Fiorenzani Chiara , Peres Natalia Aparecida , Timmer Lavern Wayne , Prodi Antonio , Baroncelli Riccardo
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The genus Colletotrichum comprises numerous fungal species with diverse ecological roles, including plant pathogenic, endophytic, and saprophytic lifestyles. Accurate species identification is crucial for understanding host-pathogen interactions, disease epidemiology, and fungal ecology. However, taxonomic classification within Colletotrichum remains challenging due to genetic complexity and phenotypic plasticity. Conventional approaches such as single-gene analyses and multilocus sequence typing (MLST) frequently fail to resolve closely related taxa, leading to misidentifications that hinder species delimitation and comparative evolutionary studies. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) offers a promising alternative by providing genome-wide resolution for phylogenetic analysis. This study investigates Colletotrichum isolates associated with the fern Rumohra adiantiformis and evaluates the effectiveness of WGS in addressing taxonomic uncertainties.

Methods

A total of 18 Colletotrichum isolates, including fern-associated strains, were analyzed. Genomic DNA was extracted and sequenced using the Illumina NovaSeq platform. High-quality genome assemblies were generated, and gene prediction was conducted using AUGUSTUS. Orthogroup assignment and phylogenomic analysis were performed based on single-copy orthologs, and phylogenetic trees were constructed using MLST and WGS-based approaches. Comparative analyses were carried out to assess the taxonomic resolution provided by WGS in relation to traditional methods.

Results

Genome-wide phylogenomic analysis revealed distinct evolutionary lineages among Colletotrichum isolates that MLST failed to resolve, highlighting host and geographic differentiation. High-quality genome assemblies were obtained, with 98.3% of genes assigned to orthogroups, indicating strong genomic conservation. Phylogenetic analyses confirmed a close relationship between Rumohra adiantiformis-associated isolates and Colletotrichum filicis, reinforcing the effectiveness of WGS in species identification.

Discussion

These findings demonstrate the superiority of WGS over MLST in resolving species boundaries and reconstructing evolutionary relationships. The enhanced resolution provided by genome-wide data enables more accurate taxonomic classification, reducing misidentifications and improving our understanding of fungal biodiversity. By refining Colletotrichum taxonomy, WGS facilitates ecological and pathogenic studies, offering a robust framework for future research in fungal systematics and plant pathology. As sequencing technologies continue to advance, WGS is expected to become a standard tool for fungal species delineation and evolutionary studies.
Modulation and distribution of extracellular free water and tract deficits in rhesus macaques before and after the initiation of emtricitabine + tenofovir disoproxil fumarate + dotutegravir treatment
Authors: Nguchu Benedictor Alexander , Lu Yu , Han Yifei , Wang Yanming , Liu Jiaojiao , Li Hongjun , Shaw Peter
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Understanding the specific timing of cART initiation, its effectiveness, and failures, as well as assessing how well the current cART regimens control viral replication and rebound, enhance immune function, and repair or curb early injury in the central nervous system (CNS), is crucial to improving the livelihood of people living with HIV.

Methods

Here, we use an animal model to provide controlled environments to understand how the bodies of Chinese-origin rhesus monkeys, both the immune system and CNS, respond to a combination of emtricitabine (EMTBL/FTC), dolutegravir (DTG), and tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) following the induction of Simian Immunodeficiency Virus (SIV). We injected the rhesus monkeys with a dose of SIVmac239 (i.e., TCID50—a 50-fold half-tissue culture infective dose) through brachial veins and conducted seven follow-ups at baseline, day 10, day 35, day 84, day 168, day 252, and day 336 for MRI imaging and blood/CSF assays of SIV copies and immunity levels.

Results and discussion

Our experimental data demonstrate that the immune system is compromised as early as 7 days after infection, with a rapid rise of SIV copies in ml and a significant drop of CD4/CD8 ratio below ~1 within the first 14 days of infection. The alterations in the extracellular environments, manifesting as increased free water volume fraction (FW-VF) in MRI data and changes in the diffusivity properties of fiber tissues appearing in FW-corrected FA and FW-corrected MD, occur in parallel with an compromised immune system, suggesting that SIV enters the brain parenchyma in the early days of infection via a weakened brain defense system, causing inflammatory processes affecting the CNS. Our findings demonstrate that our current FTC+TDF+DTG regimen can enhance the immune system, suppress SIV replication, and slow damage to the intra- and extracellular environments. However, it is still ineffective in controlling viral rebound and experiences resistance in some rhesus monkeys, which may lead to further damage to the CNS. Our findings also provide the first SIVmac239-based evidence that extracellular FW-VF may be a more reliable biomarker of abnormal inflammatory processes, thus providing a better understanding of SIV disease progression than previously anticipated.
From cold to hot: mechanisms of hyperthermia in modulating tumor immunology for enhanced immunotherapy
Authors: Abreu M. Marc , Chocron Alberto F. , Smadja David M.
Published: February 2025

The emergence of immunotherapies has revolutionized cancer treatment by leveraging the immune system to target malignancies, offering new hope where traditional therapies often fall short. Within this context, hyperthermia (HT) has re-emerged as a promising adjunctive treatment, capable of enhancing the effectiveness of radiotherapy, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy. HT influences both the innate and adaptive immune systems, enhancing the activity of immune cells such as neutrophils, NK cells, and dendritic cells, while also modulating the tumor microenvironment (TME) to promote immunogenic cell death (ICD) and reduce immunosuppressive conditions. These effects contribute to the transformation of immunologically “cold” tumors into “hot” tumors, making them more susceptible to immune-mediated destruction. Furthermore, HT can amplify the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) by improving immune cell infiltration, inducing damage-associated molecular pattern (DAMP) release, and enhancing antigen presentation. Preclinical and clinical studies support the combination of HT with ICIs, demonstrating improved outcomes in otherwise resistant tumors. However, the full therapeutic potential of the different technologies allowing to apply HT remains to be fully understood, and further research is needed to optimize treatment protocols, explore the differential impacts of local versus whole-body hyperthermia, and identify biomarkers for patient stratification. This review underscores the multifaceted role of HT in immunity and its potential to significantly enhance the efficacy of immunotherapy.
Nanomaterials for liver cancer targeting: research progress and future prospects
Authors: Xu Jiahong , Liu Yefu
Published: February 2025

The incidence and mortality rates of liver cancer in China remain elevated. Although early-stage liver cancer is amenable to surgical resection, a significant proportion of patients are diagnosed at advanced stages. Currently, in addition to surgical resection for hepatocellular carcinoma, the primary treatment modalities predominantly include chemotherapy. The widespread use of chemotherapy, which non-selectively targets both malignant and healthy cells, often results in substantial immunosuppression. Simultaneously, the accumulation of chemotherapeutic agents can readily induce drug resistance upon reaching the physiological threshold, thereby diminishing the efficacy of these treatments. Besides chemotherapy, there exist targeted therapy, immunotherapy and other therapeutic approaches. Nevertheless, the development of drug resistance remains an inevitable challenge. To address these challenges, we turn to nanomedicine, an emerging and widely utilized discipline that significantly influences medical imaging, antimicrobial strategies, drug delivery systems, and other related areas. Stable and safe nanomaterials serve as effective carriers for delivering anticancer drugs. They enhance the precision of drug targeting, improve bioavailability, and minimize damage to healthy cells. This review focuses on common nanomaterial carriers used in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treatment over the past five years. The following is a summary of the three drugs: Sorafenib, Gefitinib, and lenvatinib. Each drug employs distinct nanomaterial delivery systems, which result in varying levels of bioavailability, drug release rates, and therapeutic efficacy.
Associations of magnesium depletion score with the incidence and mortality of osteoarthritis: a nationwide study
Authors: Ma Ruicong , Zhang Cheng , Liu Jiaqing , Ren Jinyi , Huang Huina , Wang Guan , Ding Yanchun , Li Xia
Published: February 2025

Background

Magnesium is an essential immune nutrient for the body, and recent studies have found that it plays an important role in osteoarthritis (OA). Magnesium depletion score(MDS) is a new method for evaluating the magnesium status of the body. Our objective is to explore the association between MDS and the incidence of OA, as well as the relationship between MDS and mortality in patients with OA.

Methods

Eligible participants were obtained from NHANES from 2005 to 2018. Logistic regression models were employed to evaluate the link between MDS and the incidence of OA. Cox regression models were employed to evaluate the link between MDS and mortality among OA patients. In addition, restricted cubic spline was utilized to explore the correlation between MDS and the incidence of OA, as well as the relationship between MDS and mortality in patients with OA. Subgroup analysis were adopted in order to ensure the credibility of the results in different subgroups, including age, gender, race, education level, BMI, smoking, diabetes and hypertension.

Results

19,394 individuals qualified for analysis, including 3,256 OA patients. After excluding missing follow-up data, 630 all-cause deaths and 172 cardiovascular deaths (CVDs) were observed in 3,250 OA patients. The individuals with OA had higher levels of MDS. In the logistic regression model, MDS was positively related to OA (MDS≥3 vs. MDS=0, OR =1.83 (1.46-2.30, P<0.001)). Besides, a positive association was observed between MDS and all-cause mortality [MDS≥3 vs. MDS=0, HR =2.56 (1.49-4.41, P<0.001)] and CVDs [MDS≥3 vs. MDS=0, HR =3.00 (1.13-7.98, P=0.01)] in cox regression models. In addition, a 1-unit rise in MDS was significantly linked to an increased risk of mortality. Restricted cubic spline indicated a positive relationship between MDS and incidence and mortality of OA. Subgroup analysis demonstrated that the results are stable in different subgroups.

Conclusions

MDS is positively correlated with the incidence and mortality of OA. Optimizing the nutritional status of magnesium may bring benefits to OA patients.
The immune duality of osteopontin and its therapeutic implications for kidney transplantation
Authors: Leung Junto , Qu Lei , Ye Qifa , Zhong Zibiao
Published: February 2025

Osteopontin (OPN) is a multifunctional glycoprotein with various structural domains that enable it to perform diverse functions in both physiological and pathological states. This review comprehensively examines OPN from multiple perspectives, including its protein structure, interactions with receptors, interactions with immune cells, and roles in kidney diseases and transplantation. This review explores the immunological duality of OPN and its significance and value as a biomarker and therapeutic target in kidney transplantation. In cancer, OPN typically promotes tumor evasion by suppressing the immune system. Conversely, in immune-related kidney diseases, particularly kidney transplantation, OPN activates the immune system by enhancing the migration and activation of immune cells, thereby exacerbating kidney damage. This immunological duality may stem from different OPN splice variants and the exposure, after cleavage, of different structural domains, which play distinct biological roles in cellular interactions. Additionally, OPN has a significant biological impact posttransplantation and on chronic kidney disease and, highlighting its importance as a biomarker and potential therapeutic target. Future research should further explore the specific mechanisms of OPN in kidney transplantation to improve treatment strategies and enhance patient quality of life.
Central nervous system and immune cells interactions in cancer: unveiling new therapeutic avenues
Authors: Wen Junkai , Li Yue , Deng Wanli , Li Zhi
Published: February 2025

Cancer remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide. Despite significant advancements in cancer research, our understanding of its complex developmental pathways remains inadequate. Recent research has clarified the intricate relationship between the central nervous system (CNS) and cancer, particularly how the CNS influences tumor growth and metastasis via regulating immune cell activity. The interactions between the central nervous system and immune cells regulate the tumor microenvironment via various signaling pathways, cytokines, neuropeptides, and neurotransmitters, while also incorporating processes that alter the tumor immunological landscape. Furthermore, therapeutic strategies targeting neuro-immune cell interactions, such as immune checkpoint inhibitors, alongside advanced technologies like brain-computer interfaces and nanodelivery systems, exhibit promise in improving treatment efficacy. This complex bidirectional regulatory network significantly affects tumor development, metastasis, patient immune status, and therapy responses. Therefore, understanding the mechanisms regulating CNS-immune cell interactions is crucial for developing innovative therapeutic strategies. This work consolidates advancements in CNS-immune cell interactions, evaluates their potential in cancer treatment strategies, and provides innovative insights for future research and therapeutic approaches.