bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pegada de carbono da cadeia produtiva da construção em países selecionados
Authors: Santos Neto João Furtado dos , Sesso Filho Umberto Antonio , Esteves Emerson Guzzi Zuan , Sesso Patrícia Pompermayer
Published: February 2025

O estudo teve como objetivo estimar a pegada de carbono do setor da construção e sua cadeia produtiva em 43 países e restante do mundo, realizar a decomposição estrutural das variações das emissões de CO2 em efeitos tecnologia, intensidade, estrutura e volume da demanda final e calcular os efeitos direto e indireto de emissões de CO2 da cadeia produtiva dentro e fora do país de origem no período 2000-2014. A metodologia utilizada é baseada na matriz insumo-produto inter-regional mundial. O setor da construção apresentou variação nas emissões de CO2 de 313 mil Gigagramas (Gg) anuais para 385 mil Gg no período 2000-2014 em nível global, um aumento de 72 mil Gg (25%). Os efeitos estrutura (composição) e volume (crescimento econômico) da demanda final foram os principais responsáveis pelo aumento das emissões de CO2 do setor construção. O efeito intensidade (emissões por unidade de produção) foi o principal fator de diminuição para as emissões de CO2. Os resultados indicam o comprometimento dos países em adotar novas tecnologias e modificar a matriz de energia com intuito de reduzir o nível de poluição. A cadeia produtiva global do setor da construção gerou cerca de 7,6 milhões de Gigagramas de CO2 em 2015 (17% das emissões mundiais), sendo 5% no próprio setor e 95% nos setores fornecedores de insumos. A participação (%) das emissões dos insumos importados aumentou no período 2000-2014 para a maior parte dos países indicando aumento da terceirização das emissões do setor construção (outsourcing).
Effectiveness of Istighfar Dhikr Therapy to Reduce Anxiety among Adolescents with Divorced Parents
Authors: Masyitah Masyitah , Nashori Fuad
Published: February 2025

One of the major factors that affects society is the high divorce rate between husband and wife. One of the impacts of parental divorce on children is the rampant phenomenon of anxiety experienced by adolescents. Istighfar dhikr therapy is one way to reduce anxiety experienced by adolescents with divorced parents. The purpose of this study is to examine the effectiveness of istighfar dhikr therapy in reducing the anxiety of adolescents whose parents are divorced. Participants in this study were adolescents aged 13-18 years, male and female, divorced parents, and tended to moderate to severe anxiety levels. The measuring instrument is the HARS (Hamilton Anxiety Rating Scale). This research is a quasi-experiment with a pretest-posttest control group design. The data analysis technique used in this study was the Mann-Whitney U Test, to see the difference in anxiety between the experimental group and the control group after being given istighfar dhikr therapy. The results showed that istighfar dhikr therapy was able to reduce anxiety in adolescents with divorced parents. The practical contribution of istighfar dhikr therapy in reducing anxiety is 46%.
Effects of an Enterococcus faecium‐based probiotic on growth performance and resistance of Amazon ornamental fish Heros severus under short-term fasting
Authors: Costa Junior Keber Santos , Barros Francisco Alex Lima , Couto Marcia Valéria Silva do , Reis Ryuller Gama Abreu , Marques Matheus Henrique Correa , Fujimoto Rodrigo Yiudi , Cordeiro Carlos Aberto Martins , Sousa Natalino da Costa
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the deprivation and feeding frequency of H. severus fingerlings fed a diet supplemented with autochthonous probiotic E. faecium and challenged with the pathogen A. hydrophila. The experiment was carried out in 2 × 5 factorial, consisting of two food frequencies (two and four times a day) and four food deprivations with probiotic (P:7/0, P:6/1, P:5/2 and P:Alt) and one control (C:7/0). The deprivation factor, higher values of growth parameters were observed for fish from the treatments P:7/0 and P:6/1, as well greatest resistance of the A. hydrophila. Therefore, the use of probiotic E. faecium provided greater growth and resistance for H. severus.
Modern Management of Severe Open Fractures of the Extremities
Authors: Kanakaris Nikolaos K. , Rodham Paul , Giannoudis Vasileios P. , Giannoudis Peter V.
Published: February 2025

➢ The administration of antibiotics, revascularization, effective initial debridement, stabilization, and dead-space management are important time-dependent, acute actions.

➢ Following the adequate resuscitation of the patient and the local soft tissues, the first stage of the Masquelet technique is performed together with the definitive coverage of the soft-tissue defect.

➢ The optimal time for the second stage (grafting of the bone defect) depends on the progress of the soft-tissue reconstruction and the overall state of the patient. It is usually at 6 to 14 weeks.

➢ Bone graft involves cancellous autograft; depending on the volume of the defect, it can be acquired using different donor sites and methods and can be combined with cancellous allograft, bone substitutes, bone marrow aspirate, and inductive molecules.

➢ Bone healing is independent of the size of the defect, assuming that revascularization of the graft material has not been disturbed.

➢ The development of signs of a fracture-related infection in the clinical setting of a severe open fracture dictates surgical treatment and pathogen-specific antibiotics, debridement of the membrane and the surrounding soft tissues, and reinitiation of the staged process of limb salvage.

➢ The results of staged management of severe open fractures with bone defects are reproducible and good.
Long-Term Results of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing Implant in the United States
Authors: Zuke William A. , Hannon Charles P. , Salih Rondek , Kromka Joseph , Granger Caroline , Clohisy John C. , Barrack Robert L.
Published: February 2025

Background:

We previously reported the 5-year results of the Birmingham Hip Resurfacing (BHR) implant. This study evaluates BHR survivorship as well as radiographic and clinical outcomes at long-term follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 224 patients with contemporary indications, including 179 patients from the original study, were included in this analysis. Survivorship was calculated. Metal ion levels and radiographs were updated. Patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were compared with those for matched patients who had undergone total hip arthroplasty (THA). The mean follow-up was 14 years.

Results:

Survivorship free from any revision and from aseptic revision was 96.0% and 97.4% at 15 years, respectively. Two patients had undergone revision since the original study. The median serum cobalt and chromium levels were 1.4 and 1.5 ppb, respectively. The PROs were similar to those for the THA cohort. Equal proportions of patients remained active; however, the BHR group trended toward more remaining highly active (p = 0.12).

Conclusions:

Although activity was similar to THA at long-term follow-up, the BHR implant remains an excellent option for the treatment of osteoarthritis in younger male patients.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level III. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Aprendizaje-Servicio y promoción de la actividad física en centros sociales durante la formación inicial del profesorado de Educación Física
Authors: Lobo-de-Diego Félix , Manrique-Arribas Juan Carlos , Monjas-Aguado Roberto
Published: February 2025

La formación inicial del profesorado se enfrenta al reto de implementar modelos formativos que permitan una preparación de calidad en el futuro profesorado de Educación Física, para que estos puedan desarrollar las competencias profesionales vinculadas a unos contextos reales mientras se promociona la práctica regular de actividad física y los hábitos saludables en la sociedad. El objetivo del trabajo es analizar la experiencia de Aprendizaje-Servicio en diversos centros sociales con la finalidad de promocionar un estilo de vida activo y generar bienestar psicológico e interpersonal. Para ello se ha empleado una metodología cualitativa mediante un estudio de caso intrínseco en el que se han realizado entrevistas semiestructuradas en profundidad a tres profesores encargados del desarrollo de proyectos de Aprendizaje-Servicio y tres grupos focales con diez estudiantes de edades comprendidas entre los 20 y 30 años, que han cursado asignaturas de la mención de Educación Física en el Grado de Educación. Los resultados más relevantes muestran que las intervenciones de Aprendizaje-Servicio de actividades físico-deportivas en centros sociales tienen un efecto positivo en el desarrollo de un estilo de vida activo, se contribuye al desarrollo de las competencias docentes y permite que los estudiantes conozcan otros contextos sociales, no académicos, y adquieran un compromiso conciudadano. La principal conclusión que se extrae es que este modelo promueve la colaboración entre la universidad y otras entidades sociales mientras se favorece un estilo de vida activo y se fomenta la práctica regular de actividad física de determinados colectivos que no la realizan de manera habitual.
The role of strategic learning skills in the dropout from sport in adolescence
Authors: Consoni Carla
Published: February 2025

Abandonment from sports activities is a significant and increasing process in adolescence, with several negative involvements at multiple levels, such as the acquisition of an unhealthy lifestyle. The decision of dropping out of sporting activity may be linked to sport and non-sport aspects in various domains. Interestingly, the search of personal skills related to dropout rates that are operative in performance and other settings different from sport (such as school) is still understudied. This study examined the association between different types of quitting sports and strategic learning skills in the affective-motivational and cognitive-metacognitive dimensions. These skills, learned in the school context, are functional to academic careers, sports, and the wider fields of life. Sampling included 2,391 Italian and Spanish upper secondary students aged 14-18 years. They filled out two self-assessment questionnaires regarding workout and sporting routines and the affective-motivational and cognitive-metacognitive learning strategies. The search assumption was explored using the descriptive research method. The results revealed that strategic affective-motivational learning skills are linked with definitive and not-definitive sports dropout rates. These skills may have a crucial influence on making young people’s physical exercise maintenance last in time and reduce the risk of maladaptive behavior in different areas of life. An early learning of these skills, starting as soon as children enter school, would allow young people to invest in their own health immediately.
Áreas de triˆangulos e algumas inferˆencias na Geometria Plana
Authors: Jesus Alessandro Firmiano de , Silva Matheus Santos , Santos João Paulo Martins dos
Published: February 2025

A condição de existência de um triângulo ABC de lados a, b e c estabelece que a+b>c. O presente trabalho identifica nos elementos do triângulo, uma certa quantidade k>0 tal que a+b=c+k. Para essa identificação, foram obtidos os pontos interceptos M, N e P do triângulo com o seu Incírculo de centro I. O principal resultado é a Equivalência de Áreas entre o Quadrilátero Reentrante ADBC, sendo D o vértice percorrendo o incírculo que minimiza sua área, e a área do Deltoide CNIP. Como contribuição geométrica, é sugerida uma construção para obtenção dos interceptos M, N e P sobre ABC sem a prévia necessidade do traçado do incírculo. Por fim, uma ferramenta dinâmica foi aplicada para traçar coordenadas definidas, ponto a ponto, pelas áreas dos Quadriláteros Reentrantes ADBC, ADCB e ACDB, enquanto o vértice comum D percorre o incírculo do triângulo ABC. Trajetórias elípticas desses pontos foram reveladas.
sPACeMAN – Assessing Neurocognitive Performance and Electrocortical Activity Across Diverse Gravity Levels Using a Gamification Approach
Authors: Badalì Constance , Wollseiffen Petra , Puck Lennart , Schneider Stefan
Published: February 2025

It is essential that astronauts maintain optimal cognitive function in order to successfully complete critical tasks in demanding environments. However, stress can impair executive functions and decision-making, which may ultimately affect mission success. Training and establishing routines can help ensure efficiency and may free up cognitive resources to handle unforeseen challenges effectively. To evaluate workload management in a demanding dual-task the study investigated behavioural data (Reaction Time and Error Rate), as well as neurophysiological parameters (event-related potentials and electrocortical activity) in Earth gravity, hypergravity and weightlessness in 25 consecutive parabolas through a parabolic flight.
The data demonstrated no significant changes in electrocortical activity and reaction time between the different gravity levels. However, a notable increase in error rate was observed in microgravity when compared to hyper- and normal gravity. Electrophysiological data revealed a pronounced N1-P2 complex, indicating perceptual processing of the sound of the Oddball paradigm. The typical fronto-central N200 component was triggered by both sounds of the Oddball paradigm, although no differences were observed between the gravity levels. The similarity of the ERP responses to both oddball paradigm tones suggests that most cognitive resources were allocated to the primary task, with reduced discrimination of auditory stimuli. Furthermore, the presence of the N200 component, interpreted as mismatch negativity (MMN), indicates automatic neural responses to auditory deviations that are independent of cognitive load. This has important implications for astronauts performing complex tasks during space missions, where understanding cognitive workload and task prioritization is essential for mission success and safety. Further research is needed to explore cognitive workload management in such demanding environments.
Human land-use and non-native species erode ecosystem services by changing community size structure
Authors: Moi Dieison , Saito Victor , Quirino Bárbara , Alves Diego , Agostinho Angelo , Schmitz Marcelo , Bonecker Claudia , Barrios Margenny , Kratina Pavel , Perkins Daniel , de Mello Franco Teixeira , Figueiredo Bruno , Mormul Roger , Okada Edson , Romero Gustavo
Published: February 2025

Organism body size influences ecosystem services, and human pressures alter the size structure of ecological communities. Our understanding of how different human-induced pressures (such as land-use and biotic invasion) interact to drive community size structure and ecosystem services remains limited. Combining 21 years of fish size spectrum data and fishery potential (fishery monetary value), we demonstrate that the size spectrum exponent of native species became more negative over time, indicating a relative decrease in the biomass of large versus small individuals. Conversely, the size spectrum exponent of non-native species became less negative over time due to the increased abundance of large species. Overall, fishery potential declined more than 50% over time. Human land-use replaced the coverage of natural environments, indirectly reducing native richness. This scenario decreased the exponent of the native size spectrum, indirectly reducing fishery potential. Our in-depth study depicts how human land-use intensification alters the size structure of communities, favoring non-native individuals and suppressing ecosystem services.
Fluorescence-Free Single-Molecule Microscopy via Electronic Resonance Stimulated Raman Scattering
Authors: Shim Sang-Hee , Oh Sumin , Eom Yunji , Kim Ha Yeon , Tripathi Ayushi , Park Sungnam , Woo Han Young
Published: February 2025

Vibrational spectroscopy is a powerful tool for spectral imaging of biological samples, thanks to its narrow bandwidth (10 cm⁻¹) compared to fluorescence. Single-molecule vibrational spectroscopy has been demonstrated with near-field amplification as in surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy or fluorescence detection as in stimulated Raman excited fluorescence and bond-selective fluorescence-detected infrared-excited spectro-microscopy. However, these methods involve complex sample preparation or produce high backgrounds, limiting their practicality. In response to these issues, we developed electronic resonance stimulated Raman scattering (ER-SRS) to achieve single-molecule sensitivity in far-field vibrational microscopy without relying on fluorescence detection. ER-SRS has encountered difficulties due to large electronic backgrounds. To overcome this, we employed Raman-amplified nonfluorescent molecular probe (RANMP) alongside our synchronously pumped, independently tunable double optical parametric oscillators for effective optimization of the signal-to-background ratio. The optimization of probe and light source allowed us to successfully detect ER-SRS signal from single particles in solution and from single molecules embedded in polymer matrix. ER-SRS combined with RANMP, offering single-molecule sensitivity without the aid of fluorescence detection, will open new avenues in biological and chemical fields, particularly in multiplexed imaging.
Quality assurance and validity of AI-generated Single Best Answer questions
Authors: Ahmed Ayla , Kerr Ellen , O'Malley Andrew
Published: February 2025

Background
Recent advancements in generative artificial intelligence have opened new avenues in educational methodologies, particularly in medical education. This study seeks to assess whether generative AI might be useful in addressing the depletion of assessment question banks, a challenge intensified during the Covid-era due to the prevalence of open-book examinations, and to augment the pool of formative assessment opportunities available to students. While many recent publications have sought to ascertain whether AI can achieve a passing standard in existing examinations, this study investigates the potential for AI to generate the exam itself.
Summary of Work
This research utilized a commercially available AI large language model (LLM), OpenAI GPT-4, to generate 220 single best answer (SBA) questions, adhering to Medical Schools Council Assessment Alliance guidelines the and a selection of Learning Outcomes (LOs) of the Scottish Graduate-Entry Medicine (ScotGEM) program. The AI-generated questions underwent quality-assurance screening to ensure compliance with the stipulated guidelines and LOs. A subset of these questions was then incorporated into an examination format alongside an equal number of human-authored questions and subsequently undertaken by a cohort of medical students. The performance of both AI-generated and human-authored questions was evaluated, focusing on facility and discrimination index as key metrics.
Summary of Results
The screening process revealed that 69% of AI-generated SBAs were fit for inclusion in the examinations with little or no modifications required. Modifications, when necessary, were predominantly due to reasons such as the inclusion of "all of the above" options, usage of American English spellings, and non-alphabetized answer choices. 31% of questions were rejected for inclusion in the examinations, due to factual inaccuracies and non-alignment with students’ learning. When included in an examination, post hoc statistical analysis indicated no significant difference in performance between the AI- and human- authored questions in terms of facility and discrimination index.
Discussion and Conclusion
The outcomes of this study suggest that AI LLMs can generate SBA questions that are in line with best-practice guidelines and specific LOs. However, the a robust quality assurance process is necessary to ensure that erroneous questions are identified and rejected. The insights gained from this research provide a foundation for further investigation into refining AI prompts, aiming for a more reliable generation of curriculum-aligned questions. LLMs show significant potential in supplementing traditional methods of question generation in medical education. This approach offers a viable solution to rapidly replenish and diversify assessment resources in medical curricula, marking a step forward in the intersection of AI and education.
Aharonov–Bohm Interference in Even-Denominator Fractional Quantum Hall States
Authors: Ronen Yuval , Kim Jehyun , Dev Himanshu , Shaer Amit , Kumar Ravi , Ilin Alexey , Haug André , Iskoz Shelly , Watanabe Kenji , Taniguchi Takashi , Mross David , Stern Ady
Published: February 2025

Position exchange of non-Abelian anyons affects the quantum state of their system in a topologically protected way. Their expected manifestations in even-denominator fractional quantum Hall (FQH) systems offer the opportunity to directly study their unique statistical properties in interference experiments. In this work, we present the observation of coherent Aharonov–Bohm interference at two even-denominator states in high-mobility bilayer graphene-based van der Waals heterostructures by employing the Fabry–Pérot interferometry (FPI) technique. Operating the interferometer at a constant filling factor, we observe an oscillation period corresponding to two flux quanta inside the interference loop, ΔΦ = 2Φ0, at which the interference does not carry signatures of non-Abelian statistics. The absence of the expected periodicity of ΔΦ = 4Φ0 may indicate that the interfering quasiparticles carry the charge e∗ = e/2 or that interference of e∗ = e/4 quasiparticles is thermally smeared. Interestingly, at two hole-conjugate states, we also observe oscillation periods of half the expected value, indicating interference of e∗ = 2e/3 quasiparticles instead of e∗ = e/3. To probe statistical phase contributions, we operated the FPI with controlled deviations of the filling factor, thereby introducing fractional quasiparticles inside the interference loop. The resulting changes to the interference patterns at both half-filled states indicate that the additional bulk quasiparticles carry the fundamental charge e∗ = e/4, as expected for non-Abelian anyons.
Target cell tension regulates macrophage trogocytosis
Authors: Fletcher Daniel , Cornell Caitlin , Chorlay Aymeric , Krishnamurthy Deepak , Martin Nicholas , Baldauf Lucia
Published: February 2025

Macrophages are known to engulf small membrane fragments, or trogocytose, target cells and pathogens, rather than fully phagocytose them. However, little is known about what causes macrophages to choose trogocytosis versus phagocytosis. Here, we report that cortical tension of target cells is a key regulator of macrophage trogocytosis. At low tension, macrophages will preferentially trogocytose antibody-opsonized cells, while at high tension they tend towards phagocytosis. Using model vesicles, we demonstrate that macrophages will rapidly switch from trogocytosis to phagocytosis when membrane tension is increased. Stiffening the cortex of target cells also biases macrophages to phagocytose them, a trend that can be countered by increasing antibody surface density and is captured in a mechanical model of trogocytosis. This work suggests that the target cell, rather than the macrophage, determines phagocytosis versus trogocytosis, and that macrophages do not require a distinct molecular pathway for trogocytosis.
PanTE: A Comprehensive Framework for Transposable Element Discovery in Graph-based Pangenomes
Authors: Wang Yiwen , Cao Shuo , Liu Zhenya , Liu Yuting , Liu Zhongqi , Ma Wenqi , Lu Jianzhong , Xiao Hua , Chen Jinfeng , Ou Shujun , Garrison Erik , Zhou Yongfeng
Published: February 2025

Transposable element (TE) annotation is crucial for understanding genetics, genomics and evolution, yet current methods struggle to identify TEs in graph-based pangenomes. We developed a framework PanTE to construct accurate and representative TE libraries for both single genomes and graph pangenomes. PanTE is the first of its kind capable of being directly applied to graph-based pangenomes to build population-level TE libraries. By partially reimplementing RepeatModeler2 and integrating key innovations, including graph pangenome disassembly, alignment-free LTR structure detection, a machine learning-based classifier and efficiency-boosting strategies, PanTE outperformed RepeatModeler2 by efficiently handling large genomes, detecting high-abundance TEs and LTR-retrotransposons, and providing robust TE classification with superior computational efficiency. Compared to EDTA, it annotated ~ 26% more TEs in the grapevine genome and achieved up to 13 times faster runtimes in the wheat genome. PanTE represents a significant advancement in population-wide TE discovery, making it particularly valuable for pangenomic studies.
Structural flexibility in the ordered domain of the dengue virus strain 2 capsid protein is critical for chaperoning viral RNA replication
Authors: SHARMA Kamal Kant , Raghuvamsi Palur Venkata , Aik Daniel Y. K. , Marzinek Jan K , Bond Peter J. , Wohland Thorsten
Published: February 2025

Viral replication necessitates intricate nucleic acid rearrangements, including annealing and strand displacement to achieve the viral RNA functional structure. Often a single RNA chaperone performs these seemingly incompatible functions. This raises the question of what structural and dynamic features of such chaperones govern distinct RNA rearrangements. While cationic intrinsically disordered regions promote annealing by playing a charge-screening role, how the same chaperone mediates strand displacement remains elusive. Here, we investigate the annealing and strand displacement of the 5’ upstream AUG region (5UAR) as chaperoned by the Dengue virus strain 2 capsid protein (Denv2C) as a model RNA chaperone. Through single molecule analysis and molecular simulations, we demonstrate that Denv2C regulates nucleic acid melting, folding, annealing, and strand displacement via flexibility in its ordered region. A mutation that renders the Denv2C ordered region rigid, converts Denv2C into a mere annealer. Our findings underscore the role of Denv2C’s disordered region as a “macromolecular counterion” during RNA annealing, while a flexible ordered region is crucial for effective strand displacement.
H3K27me3 demethylases regulate flowering time response to low ambient temperature
Authors: Poza-Viejo Laura , Luna Ana , Olmo Iván del , Arikan Burcu , González-Bodí Sara , Yan Wenhao , Kaufmann Kerstin , Turck Franziska , Crevillén Pedro
Published: February 2025

Flowering time is an important crop trait, as premature or delayed flowering can significantly reduce yields. Plants flower in response to a defined set of endogenous and environmental cues. The effect of ambient temperature on flowering time is extensively studied, but the role of epigenetic modifiers on the floral thermosensory pathway remains largely unexplored. Here we describe that the histone demethylases EARLY FLOWERING 6 (ELF6) and JUMONJI 13 (JMJ13) fine-tune temperature-dependent flowering. We found that the elf6-3 jmj13-1 double mutant is hyposensitive to the effect of low ambient temperature on flowering time. Genetic analyses demonstrate that ELF6 and JMJ13 function requires the cold-responsive floral repressors FLOWERING LOCUS C (FLC) and FLOWERING LOCUS M (FLM). ELF6 and JMJ13 bind to the chromatin of FLC and FLM loci at both temperature regimes, with increased binding to FLM observed at low ambient temperatures. Interestingly, we also detected increased levels of H3 lysine 27 trimethylation (H3K27me3) in the elf6-3 jmj13-1 double mutant at low ambient temperature in FLC and FLM. Our work demonstrates that ELF6 and JMJ13 are required to modulate FLC and FLM gene expression in response to ambient temperature fluctuations, revealing H3K27me3 demethylases as novel players in the floral thermosensory pathway.
Pattern and predictors of lepra reactions among patients treated for leprosy in southeast Nigeria: A mixed methods Study
Authors: Okoh Emeka E. , Ojule Inumanye N. , Amah Linda O. , Okoh Joel C. , Sibeudu Nnaemeka E. , Oduwegwu Stella I.
Published: February 2025

Background
Lepra reactions occur among patients treated for leprosy. This study aimed to assess the pattern and predictors of lepra reactions in southeast Nigeria.
Methods
This is a convergent parallel mixed-methods study that determined the pattern and explored the experiences of leprosy patients. Participants were recruited by cluster sampling technique. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression analysis were performed with statistical significance level of </=0.05. In addition, in-depth and key informant interviews were conducted.
Results
There were 71 participants in total, comprising 35 males (49.3%) and 36 females (50.7%) with a mean age of 60.39±16.327. The prevalence of type 1 and type 2 lepra reactions were 59.2% (95% CI 47.14 – 70.17), and 35.2% (95% CI 27.30 – 50.07) respectively. Type 1 lepra reaction (LR) was significantly associated with gender (P< 0.023) and farming (p<0.044). Furthermore, Paucibacillary leprosy (PB) was significantly associated with both types 1(p< 0.022) and 2(p< 0.011) lepra reactions. Type of diagnosis (PB) was a significant predictor of type 1 LR 5.89 (95% CI 1.58 - 21.99) and type 2 LR 8.76 (95% CI 1.67 - 46.15). Worsening and new lesions led to discrimination and stigmatization for leprosy survivors.
Conclusions
Lepra reactions are common among leprosy patients in southeast Nigeria. Male gender, farming and PB leprosy were found to be predictors of leprosy reactions.
PRECISE-RA: Predicting Remission and StratifyingRisk in Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients Treated withbDMARDs—A Robust Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Salehi Fatemeh , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Salin Emmanuelle , Bayat Sara , Schett Georg , Kleyer Arnd , Smarr Benjamin , Fritsch-Stork Ruth
Published: February 2025

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease affecting millions worldwide, leading to inflammation, joint damage, and reduced quality of life. Although biological disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs) are effective, they are costly, and up to 40% of patients do not achieve remission within six months. Accurate prediction of treatment response is crucial for optimizing care, minimizing side effects, and enhancing cost efficiency.
This study proposes a robust machine learning framework for predicting six-month remission in RA patients using baseline routine clinical data. The framework also integrates risk stratification and explainability to enhance its clinical applicability. We evaluated multiple machine learning models, AdaBoost, Random Forest, XGBoost, and Support Vector Machines, using data from Austrian RA patients. We externally validated the results on an independent dataset from the Erlangen Hospital. To improve the reliability of probability estimates for actionable risk stratification, we employed calibration techniques, including Platt scaling, Isotonic regression, Beta calibration, and Spline calibration. We generated calibration curves to assess and visualize the alignment between predicted probabilities and observed outcomes. In addition, we used SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) to analyze the contributions of different patient characteristics to the prediction of RA remission.
AdaBoost demonstrated stronger performance than the other models, achieving an accuracy of 85.71% and a Brier score of 0.13 with isotonic regression calibration. SHAP identified DAS28, visual analog scales (VAS), age, and swollen joint count (SJC) as important characteristics for the prediction of RA remission. We also stratified patients into low-, medium-, and high-risk categories based on model predictions to support follow-up scheduling and treatment prioritization.
Our framework predicts RA remission before the initiation of bDMARD therapy. It enables personalized care, actionable risk stratification, and optimized resource allocation. Its robustness was validated on two different individual cohort datasets, which highlights its potential for integration into routine clinical workflows.
The Adjusted Ferritin Inflammation Index: A Novel Metric for Predicting Mortality in Heart Failure
Authors: ALAK Çetin , Çiriş Şükrü , Yurdalan Furkan Fatih , Hunutlu Fazil Çağrı , Kumral Zeynep , Şentürk Tunay
Published: February 2025

Iron deficiency (ID) is common in heart failure (HF) patients and associated with poorer outcomes. However, traditional markers like ferritin and transferrin saturation (TSAT) may fail to accurately assess ID due to the confounding effects of inflammation. In this study, we introduce the Adjusted Ferritin Inflammation Index (AFII), a composite score combining ferritin/CRP ratio and albumin levels, designed to improve the precision of ID assessment in HF patients. A total of 322 HF patients with reduced ejection fraction were included in the analysis, following the application of specific inclusion and exclusion criteria. Multivariate analysis identified AFII as an independent predictor of mortality (HR: 2.155, 95% CI: 1.361–3.412, p = 0.001), demonstrating strong discriminatory power (AUC: 0.713). Survival analysis showed that patients with AFII ≥ 2.1 had significantly lower survival rates across all subgroups. These findings suggest that AFII could be a valuable tool for risk stratification in HF, offering a more comprehensive measure of mortality risk compared to traditional iron markers. Further validation in multi-center studies is needed to confirm its clinical utility.
Enhancing Doxorubicin Efficacy in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer: The Synergistic Role of Curcumin in Modulating p21 and p53
Authors: Chai Haiqiang , Liu Huixia
Published: February 2025

Lung cancer is one of the most lethal type of malignancy in the world. Polyphenolic compounds such as curcumin, which are found in certain plant foods, are considered as chemotherapeutic agents that induce their effect through their anti-proliferative, anti-estrogenic, and pro-oxidant properties associated with cancer. In this study, we investigated the effects of curcumin on the chemosensitivity of A549 cells to doxorubicin (DOX). A549 and A549/DOX cancer cells treated with DOX and curcumin and MTT assay was applied to investigate the cell viability. Western blot and quantitative reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) were applied to investigate the protein and mRNA expression levels of P-glycoprotein (p-gp), apoptosis mediators, p21 and p53. P-gp activity was assessed by rhodamine 123 accumulation assay. Apoptosis was measured by annexin V flow cytometry. Curcumin potentiated the anticancer effects of DOX in A549/DOX cells. In other words, combinational treatment of resistant cells with DOX and curcumin reversed resistant phenotype in NSCLC via downregulating P-gp and p21 and upregulating p53. In addition, cells exposed to curcumin showed higher levels of apoptosis and higher expression levels of pro-apoptotic mediators. In conclusion, our findings demonstrated the possible effective roles of curcumin in the reversing DOX resistance via targeting p21 and p53 in NSCLC.
Dynamic Pothole Detection: A Six-Month Study of Depth Variation and Characterization Using Scatter Plot Techniques
Authors: Bhatt Arpit Kumar , Hrituraj Hrituraj , Sharma Vinamra Bhushan , Sharma Ankit , Biswas Susham
Published: February 2025

Potholes represent a significant threat to road infrastructure, contributing to road safety risks and escalating maintenance costs. This research investigates dynamic pothole detection and depth variation over a six-month period, employing a combination of RGB value analysis, pothole depth measurements, scatter plot visualization with the help of terrestrial laser Scanner, and artificial intelligence (AI) techniques. The study aims to develop an automated model that characterizes potholes not only in terms of their spatial location but also by assessing their depth and temporal progression. RGB values from high-resolution images of road surfaces are analyzed to detect pothole features, while depth measurements are recorded using advanced sensors. AI algorithms, including image processing and machine learning, are applied to process the data, detect potholes, and analyze their development over time. Scatter plot techniques are utilized to visualize the correlation between pothole depth, location, and environmental factors, providing deeper insights into the conditions that drive pothole formation and expansion. The results highlight the potential of integrating image processing and AI in proactive road maintenance strategies, offering an innovative approach to early pothole detection and characterization. This model could significantly enhance predictive maintenance, reduce road repair costs, and improve overall road safety.
Microplastics in FLOW: Seasonal Patterns in Major Latvian Rivers
Authors: Barone Marta , Svipsta Sanda , Bikše Jānis , Dimante-Deimantovica Inta
Published: February 2025

Rivers are considered key pathways for microplastics, transporting these pollutants from inland sources to marine environments. In this study, we investigated the seasonal fluctuations of microplastics in the surface waters of four major Latvian rivers (Daugava, Lielupe, Gauja, and Salaca) that flow into the Gulf of Riga. Sampling was conducted from spring 2022 to summer 2023 to represent distinct seasonal and environmental conditions. Using a Manta net (100 µm mesh size) samples were collected in triplicate and analysed for microplastic concentration, shape, size, colour, and polymer composition. Microplastic concentrations ranged from 0.63 to 132.88 particles/m³, with the highest levels observed in the River Salaca. Fibres and fragments were the predominant microplastic shapes, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and ethylene propylene diene monomer being the most abundant polymers. We found significant spatial and seasonal variations in microplastic concentrations in some rivers, with the River Salaca showing the most extreme seasonal fluctuations. However, overall, no significant correlation was observed between the suspended material and river discharge variables. Replicate sampling revealed variability between samples, highlighting the need to include replicas. These findings highlight the complexity of microplastic pollution dynamics and the need for careful consideration of seasonal factors when assessing environmental contamination. This article is the first to contribute data from Latvian rivers on the growing pool of information on microplastics contamination in waterways.
Assessing the Interplay of Religious Coping, Cravings, and Readiness for Change in Individuals with Opioid and Alcohol Dependence: A Prospective Study
Authors: Kumar Amit , Bhattacharjee Dipanjan , Khanra Sourav
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Globally, alcohol dependence is affecting approximately 6.5% of men and 1.5% of women. It often develops in early adulthood but can start at any age after repeated continued exposure to alcoholic beverages. Opioid dependence develops after regular use of opioids, a necessary but not sufficient condition for developing opioid dependence. In view of the alarming increase of these substances, there is a need to understand the religious coping and religious attitudes among individuals with opioid dependence syndrome and alcohol dependence syndrome.
Methods: The study aimed to assess the religious attitude and coping and their interaction with craving and readiness to change among Opioid dependence syndrome (ODS) and Alcohol dependence syndrome (ADS). The study was a prospective study. A total of 40 respondents, 20 respondents were diagnosed with ODS, and 20 were diagnosed with ADS. The data was collected through the religious attitude scale and brief religious cope, severity of dependence, Desire for Drug Questionnaire (DDQ), and the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale (SOCRATES) (8D and 8A) and repeated on days 7 and 14. Statistics procedures were used and tested with the SPSS 25 version.
Results: The main results evidenced in this study were that patients with alcohol dependence have higher positive religious coping than opioid-dependent patients. The ADS group uses more positive coping comparing the ODS Group. The positive religious coping in the ADS group has led to better outcomes in craving reduction and readiness to change compared to the ODS group.
Looping effects and extractive industries
Authors: Church Willem E.
Published: February 2025

It is now well-established in anthropology that resource extraction in Papua New Guinea goes hand-in-hand with reshaping group affiliations and boundaries. This article makes an empirical and theoretical contribution to this widely documented process by recounting and analysing the history of the populations affected by the prospective Wafi-Golpu copper and gold mine in Morobe Province. Empirically, I synthesise existing ethnography, grey literature and oral histories to recount how a history of pre-colonial migration, missionary resettlement, colonial-era census-taking and legal competition resulted in the residence patterns and affiliations that characterize the area today. Theoretically, I build on recent applications of Ian Hacking’s notion of ‘looping effects’ as a fruitful means of analysing these identity-related feedback dynamics near extractive industries in Papua New Guinea. Looping effects involve two intertwined processes: the institutional matrix constructing and acting on bureaucratic categories, and the changes in individuals within categories influenced by the former, but not solely determined by them. This study suggests the existence of sociological factors on both sides of this equation, such as the pace of change in classifications and classifiers, and examines how these factors shape the consequent looping dynamic.
Harald Grauer: Georg Höltker SVD (1895–1976). Baden-Baden 2022
Authors: Grana-Behrens Daniel
Published: February 2025

Buchbesprechung
Predicting composition of a functional food product using computer simulation
Authors: Nikitina M. A. , Chernukha I. M. , Artamonova M. P. , Qusay A. T.
Published: February 2025

One of the frontiers of science is the development of a digital twin for a food product to predict composition and properties of a future product. Today, however, computer simulation (modeling) is used for predicting the composition of a food product. The aim of our research is to compare the levels of the nutritional value parameters from a digital model and a real food product and to assess adequacy of the obtained data. The objects of the research were the emulsified meat-and-plant product based on the traditional meal “Mukhamar” and a digital model (computer simulator) of the recipe of the emulsified meat-andplant product. By the example of the development of the emulsified meat-and-plant product based on the traditional meal “Mukhamar”, stages of the development of a digital twin of a food product are shown. It was demonstrated that it is incorrect to use a digital model without supporting it with data (numerical values) obtained from apparatus, sensors. The calculated parameters were compared with the data obtained empirically (as a result of the laboratory experiment) in three blocks: physicochemical indicators, vitamins and minerals. Simulation and calculation of the absolute and relative errors were performed in the program environment R Studio. Differences between the calculated and empirical data can be explained, firstly, by the average values of parameters in food product databases. As for now, databases contain averaged data, which do not take into account individual characteristics of animal and plant raw materials. Secondly, it is necessary to take into consideration the coefficient of losses (or coefficient of preservation) of food nutrients during thermal treatment of food. It has been established that only the development of the precise digital twin with regard to all parameters will help to trace quality parameters at each stage of the production, which will allow reacting timely to deviations and improving quality of the final product.
Biotechnological aspects of the technology of preparation of grain-fruit wort from wheat grain and blackcurrant cake
Authors: Serba E. M. , Sokolova E. N. , Rimareva L. V. , Ionov V. V. , Ignatova N. I. , Overchenko M. B.
Published: February 2025

For the development of competitive alcoholic beverages with interesting sensory characteristics, it is promising to introduce fruit and berry raw materials into the grain wort, which allows distillates to be given an original taste and aroma. However, in the process of processing fruit and berry raw materials, difficulties arise due to its high acidity and high content of fiber and pectin substances, which require additional research to develop efficient technologies. The purpose of this work was to study the conditions for the preparation of grain-fruit wort using biotechnological methods for the conversion of polymers of wheat and blackcurrant raw materials. The objects of the study were berries and blackcurrant cake; wheat grain; enzyme preparations — sources of amylases, hemicellulases, proteases and pectinases; wort samples. The possibility of complex processing of black currant berries to obtain fermented juice as an additional product, and cake for use in grain–fruit wort has been substantiated. It was shown that as a result of the biocatalytic destruction of the protein-pectin complex of berry raw materials, the main part of fiber passed into the cake. The concentration of amine nitrogen was 315 mg%, soluble carbohydrates — 6.8%, phenolic substances — 94.75 mg%, pH — 3.0. It was found that with the combined hydrodynamic and enzymatic processing of grain and fruit raw materials, the introduction of blackcurrant cake into the composition of raw ingredients had a negative effect on the rheological properties of the wort, the viscosity of which increased almost three times. Rational conditions for the preparation of wort from mixed wheat raw materials and blackcurrant cake when used together have been selected: the hydromodule of the wort is 1:3; the dosage of hemicellulase enzymes is 0.3 units /g (может быть units KS/g) of raw materials; the content of the raw components of the cake is not more than 30%. The advantage of separate preparation of the raw components (wheat batch and fermented cake) of wort followed by combination at the stage of saccharification and proteolysis was revealed. With this method, the viscosity of the wort was significantly reduced. The concentration of total and soluble carbohydrates increased. Analysis of the carbohydrate profile showed that in wheat wort glucose was prevalent (8.1%). In grain-fruit wort, glucose and fructose were present in almost equal proportions. A block diagram has been developed for the separate preparation of raw materials (grain and blackcurrant cake) in the technology of grain-fruit distillates.
Laser irradiation and pomegranate peel for preservation of the strawberry quality
Authors: Elsayed N. , Elkashef H. , Ali Sh. R.
Published: February 2025

The present study is aimed to explore the influence of laser irradiation and coating with chitosan and pomegranate peel extract on the physico-chemical properties, weight loss, firmness, functional, microbiological, color, and sensory characteristics of strawberry for fifteen days of cold storage. Four treatments of strawberry were conducted with laser irradiation for 6 min. The second, third, and fourth groups were coated with chitosan, pomegranate peel extract (PPE), and mixture of chitosan and PPE at ratio 1:1. Compared to untreated strawberries, the exposure to laser radiation decreased the weight loss of strawberries by 43.44%. Also, the laser irradiation reduced the negative effect of storage on the total phenolic content, anthocyanin, ascorbic acid, and antioxidant ability of strawberry. The exposure of strawberry to laser irradiation reduced the counts of fungi and psychrotrophic bacteria and provided the positive effect on the color and sensory attributes. The coating with PPE and chitosan enhanced the positive effect of laser irradiation on the functional and quality properties of strawberry during its cold storage. It can be concluded that laser irradiation and coating with PPE may be applied as novel techniques for the preservation of strawberry properties during its storage period.