bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A EUROPEAN VIEW ON THE ETHICAL USE OF ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI)
Authors: KRZYSZTOF TRĘBSKI , LICHNER MILOŠ , NEMČÍKOVÁ MÁRIA , CHOVANČÍK EVA , PRAJZENDANC TOMASZ , BENKA-RYBÁR GABRIEL
Published: January 2025

Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the most exciting technology topics of recent years. It has the potential to fundamentally change the way we work, study, and use modern technologies in many areas, such as text and image generators. However, as the use of AI becomes more widespread, it is also worth being aware of the potential problems it brings. Given the increasing dependence of our systems on AI, how we address these dilemmas could have a key impact on the future of society. Among AI industry specialists, China (Taiwan) is said to produce the components for AI development, the United States is said to research and develop AI technologies, and Europe is said to implement the regulations surrounding it. In this article, we will present the ethical dilemmas that AI research and use bring, with a focus on the relevant regulations introduced by the European Union.
QUALITATIVE RESEARCH DESIGN IN EDUCATION: TOOLS, CHALLENGES, AND PRACTICAL IMPLICATIONS
Authors: DANĚK ALOIS , URGOŠÍKOVÁ MAGDALÉNA
Published: January 2025

The main aim of this paper is to present the benefits of a qualitative research design. This design is based on the interconnected use of research tools and methods, such as interviews, observations, case studies, grounded theory, and interpretative phenomenological analysis. The presented research design has been employed in numerous research projects and has proven highly effective. In this paper, we highlight the advantages of the proposed research design and address its challenges. We consider qualitative research design to be a vital tool in the field of educational sciences.
DIFFERENCES IN THE SELECTION AND PROCESSING OF ELECTRONIC AND PRINTED TEXTS FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF CZECH SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS
Authors: VICHERKOVÁ DANA , KOLÁŘ MARTIN , MALACH JOSEF
Published: January 2025

In the context of ongoing digitisation and robotisation processes, there is an increasing necessity for comprehending texts in electronic formats, which prompts a re-evaluation of the concept of reading literacy. This study aimed to investigate the current reading preferences of 614 secondary school pupils, focusing on their choices concerning text types and genres that facilitate the acquisition of new knowledge. Additionally, the research sought to elucidate the strategies employed by pupils to comprehend unknown vocabulary and the methods utilised for verifying the accuracy of the information read. A particular focus was placed on exploring whether variations in the strategies for understanding unfamiliar words and verification methods are associated with pupils' preferences for specific text formats. The questionnaire survey findings indicate that 75% of participants preferred reading printed books, with science fiction and fantasy genres as the primary sources for acquiring new knowledge, chosen by 34.2% of respondents. Over half of the pupils (51.3%) reported that their approach to understanding unfamiliar words involves inferring meaning from the context of the surrounding text. When verifying their comprehension of the material read, 63% of respondents indicated a reliance on the strategy of repeated reading. Interestingly, the study did not reveal a significant correlation between pupils' preferences for electronic versus printed texts and their chosen strategy for understanding unknown vocabulary. However, it was revealed that pupils' preferences for text formats exhibit statistically significant differences concerning the methods employed to assess their comprehension of the information studied.
PENGARUH LIKUIDITAS, STRUKTUR MODAL, MANAJEMEN ASET DAN UKURAN PERUSAHAAN TERHADAP KINERJA KEUANGAN PT MUSTIKA RATU TBK
Authors: Astuti Nita , Fauziah Restu , Sutarjo Sutarjo
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh Likuiditas, Struktur modal, Manajemen Aset dan Ukuran Perusahaan terhadap Kinerja Keuangan pada PT Mustika Ratu Tbk periode 2004-2020. Metode penelitian ini menggunakan metode kuantitatif dengan teknik sampel menggunakan teknik purposive sampling. Teknik analisis data dalam penelitian ini yaitu menggunakan analisis statistic deskriptif, uji asumsi klasik, analisis regresi linier berganda, uji kelayakan model, dan pengujian hipotesis. Hasil penelitian menghasilkan informasi yaitu variabel Likuiditas tidak berpengaruh terhadap Kinerja Keuangan, Struktur modal tidak berpengaruh terhadap Kinerja Keuangan, Manajemen Aset berpengaruh positif dan signifikan terhadap Kinerja Keuangan, Ukuran Perusahaan tidak berpengaruh terhadap Kinerja Keuangan serta Likuiditas, Struktur modal, Manajemen Aset dan Ukuran Perusahaan berpengaruh secara bersama-sama terhadap Kinerja Keuangan.
MADRASAH TEACHER PROFESSIONALISM DEVELOPMENT STRATEGY BASED ON SUPHISTIC HUMANISM IN THE AGE OF COMMUNITY 5.0
Authors: Jannah Raudatul , Sahlan Moh. , Mukaffan Mukaffan , Rofi'ah Siti Hamidahtur
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study to analyzes strategies for developing the professionalism of madrasa teachers based on Sufistic humanism. This research uses a qualitative approach with data collection techniques using interviews, observation, and documentation. The data analysis used is Miles and Huberman's data analysis. The results show that the teacher professional development strategy has three stages: development planning, implementation, and evaluation. This human research planning model includes, among others, considering HR requirements, comparing demand requirements with HR availability (HR demand, excess HR, and HR shortages), and considering the availability of HR within the organization. The implementation of teacher professionalism development is carried out with several coaching concepts based on sufistic humanism, including pedagogic development, professionalism development, personality development, and social development. While the development evaluation process is carried out with First, evaluation through leadership. Second, evaluation through the teacher by compiling learning tools at the beginning of each new school year. Third, evaluation through the assessment of MTs Al-Qodiri Jember students. This study shows that the policies provided to develop teacher professionalism at MTs Al-Qadiri Jember have an impact on improving teacher quality so that there are more professional teachers in carrying out their duties and responsibilities.
IDENTIFICATION OF CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES IN ONLINE LEARNING OF ISLAMIC MATERIAL IN DAYAH-BASED SENIOR HIGH SCHOOL
Authors: Rizal Muhammad , Zulfikar T. , Syabuddin Syabuddin , Iskandar Iskandar
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study was to examine the implementation of online learning-based Islamic Religious Education (PAI in high schools in the Dayah environment. This research use desciptive qualitative approach. The subjects of this research were maple PAI teachers at junior and senior high schools in the Dayah area. Data were collected through observation, interviews with PAI teachers and students, and documentation using descriptive-analytic analysis techniques. The research was conducted in the 2022/2023 school year November-February 2023. The results of this study underlined the opportunities that occur in PAI learning in the Dayah environment, namely (1) ability to use technology applications, (2) development of teacher competence in ICT, (3) maintain students' interest in learning PAI. Meanwhile, the challenges faced by elementary school teachers and students in online learning at Dayah are (1) difficulties in accessing technology facilities, (2) Dayah rules which prohibit independent use of technology facilities, (3) Limited funds for operational implementation of digital schools, (4) loss learning so that it is easy to access negative things. The gains from online learning opportunities cannot be overlooked either. The accumulation and formulation of a number of opportunities and challenges presented above will be a positive synergy for the development of technological developments and the forerunners of modernization of the next Dayah education system.
THE ANALYSIS OF TAHFIDZ AL-QUR’AN LEARNING USING THE FLIPPED CLASSROOM METHOD : CREATING TEACHER-PARENT COLLABORATION
Authors: Muntafi’ah Umi , Kurnia PS Alaika M Bagus , Khoirunisa Amelia , Ulya Erviana Iradah
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to analyze in more depth how tahfidz is taught in class with the flipped classroom method. This study uses a case study method, with observation and interview data collection techniques. The results of this study, the tahfidz program at SMP Khadijah has not been implemented perfectly using the flipped classroom method. With notes, reactivating the tahfidz guidebook as educational communication to parents and guardians of students; implementing collaborative mentoring in muroja'ah both at home and in class; There needs to be concern from parents and guardians of students to control the development of students' memorization of the Al-Qur'an. So there needs to be a flipped classroom method with parents as one of the means of successful tahfidz learning. Learning to memorize the Qur'an in schools as an actualization of formal education, as well as family education can function as informal education, in addition the connecting media is the student's tahfidz guidebook which is shown to teachers and parents of students.
ACTUALIZATION OF RELIGIOUS MODERATION THROUGH THE ROLE OF SPIRITUAL STORES AND COMMUNITY FIGURES IN LOMBOK
Authors: Azmi Afkarul , Fahrudin Fahrudin , Fakhruddin Agus
Published: January 2025

The purpose of this study described the roles of religious, and community figures as the vanguard in actualizing values of religious moderation. This study also described  forms of religious harmony in Lombok society. This study used a qualitative and descriptive analysis method based on best practices through interviews, observations, and document studies as data collection techniques. Data research was analyzed through data reduction, data display, data conclusion, and data verification. The results of this study indicated the success of religious figures and community figures through their crusial roles as educator in providing an attitude of tolerance, facilitator in facilitating religious activities, coordinator in building harmonious communication, and mediators in resolving various problems between religious communities. The role of the spiritual, and community figures also has an impact on harmony in society in terms of religious harmony, social harmony, and cultural harmony as a form of actualization of religious moderation in Lombok society.
Pengaruh Latihan Otot Pernafasan terhadap Peningkatan Fungsi Paru pada Periode Awal Ekstubasi
Authors: Setiyawan Setiyawan , Rahmad Muhamad Nur , Zaidah Noviana Nur
Published: January 2025

Belum ada intervensi latihan nafas yang dilakukan secara terstruktur pada pasien di awal ektubasi pasca pemasangan ventilasi mekanik di sebuah rumah sakit di Indonesia. Sehingga penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh latihan otot pernafasan terhadap fungsi paru pada periode awal ekstubasi. Rancangan penelitian menggunakan eksperimen kuasi tanpa kelompok kontrol. Intervensi latihan otot pernafasan dilakukan 1 jam pasca ekstubasi melalui deep breathing 30 kali (jeda istirahat 10 kali nafas dalam) selama 30-60 menit. Latihan diberikan dengan frekuensi satu kali sehari selama 3 hari atau sesuai kondisi pasien. Populasi penelitian ini adalah semua pasien pasca pemasangan ventilator di ruang ICU. Teknik pengambilan sampel dengan consecutive sampling sejumlah 30 responden. Instrumen menggunakan lembar observasi, hasil parameter frekuensi nafas, dan saturasi oksigen dari bedside monitor. Analisis data bivariat menggunakan Wilcoxson test. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa ada pengaruh latihan otot pernafasan terhadap fungsi paru pada periode awal ekstubasi dengan p-value 0,000 (p-value < 0,05). Hasil penelitian membuktikan bahwa latihan otot pernafasan dapat meningkatkan fungsi oksigenasi paru pada periode awal ekstubasi.
Low Mach dynamics of interface and flow fields in thermally conducting fluids
Authors: Abarzhi Snezhana I.
Published: January 2025

Unstable interfaces govern many processes in fluids, plasmas, materials, in nature and technology. In distinct physical environments, the interface dynamics exhibit similar characteristics and couple micro to macro scales. Our work establishes the rigorous theory examining the classical problem of the dynamics of an interface with mass and energy fluxes under destabilizing accelerations. We consider thermally conducting fluids in the low Mach regime with weak compressibility prevailing over thermal transport. We find the attributes of perturbation waves, solve the boundary value problem, and identify the flow field structure, the interface perturbations growth, and the interface velocity. The interface dynamics is stabilized primarily by the inertial mechanism and is unstable when the acceleration exceeds a threshold. The thermal heat flux provides extra stabilizations, seeds energy perturbations, creates the vortical field in the bulk, and rescales the interface velocity. Our results agree with experiments in plasmas and complex fluids and with contained turbulence experiments. We outline extensive benchmarks for experiments and simulations and chart future research directions.
Gradient coating of extracellular matrix derived from endothelial cells on aligned PCL nanofibers for rapid endothelialization
Authors: Zhou Ziyi , Lin Yijing , Liu Na , Zhang Yiming , Li Bing , Wang Yuanfei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Artificial vascular scaffolds can mimic the structure of natural blood vessels and replace the damaged vessels by implanting them at the injury site to perform the corresponding functions. Electrospinning technology can perfectly combine biological signals and topographical cues to synergistically induce directed cell migration and growth.

Methods

In this study, poly (caprolactone) (PCL) nanofibers, PCL nanofibers uniformly coated with the extracellular matrix derived from endothelial cells (ECd), and bi-directional linear gradient ECd-coated PCL nanofibers were prepared by electrospinning and electrospray techniques to evaluate their effects on the proliferation and migration of Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) and rapid endothelialization.

Results

The results showed that HUVECs could successfully adhere to the surface of these three nanofibers and maintain high viability. The migration results indicated that the bidirectional linear gradient coating could accelerate the migration of HUVECs and the endothelialization process. On this basis, three types of bionic vascular scaffolds, including PCL vascular scaffold, uniform ECd-coated PCL vascular scaffold, and bi-directional linear gradient ECd-coated PCL vascular scaffold, were further prepared. The results showed that the topology and biological signal of the bi-directional linear gradient ECd-coated PCL vascular scaffold synergistically promoted the migration of HUVECs more effectively.

Discussion

This provides a new way to clinically promote the structural and functional recovery of damaged vessels and develop personalized or universal artificial vascular scaffolds, which is of great importance in cardiovascular regenerative medicine.
Long-term dynamics of placozoan culture: emerging models for population and space biology
Authors: Romanova Daria Y. , Povernov Alexander A. , Nikitin Mikhail A. , Borman Simkha I. , Frank Yana A. , Moroz Leonid L.
Published: January 2025

As the simplest free-living animal, Trichoplax adhaerens (Placozoa) is emerging as a powerful paradigm to decipher molecular and cellular bases of behavior, enabling integrative studies at all levels of biological organization in the context of metazoan evolution and parallel origins of neural organization. However, the progress in this direction also depends on the ability to maintain a long-term culture of placozoans. Here, we report the dynamic of Trichoplax cultures over 11 years of observations from a starting clonal line, including 7 years of culturing under antibiotic (ampicillin) treatment. This study revealed very complex population dynamics, with seasonal oscillation and at least partial correlations with the solar radio emission flux and the magnetic field disturbance parameters. Notable, the analysis of the distribution of Fe2+ in living animals revealed not only its high abundance across most cells but also asymmetric localizations of Fe2+ in unidentified cells, suggesting that these Fe2+ intracellular patterns might be coupled with the animal’s bioenergetics. We hypothesize that placozoans might have magnetoreception, which can be experimentally tested in future studies. In sum, Trichoplax, in particular, and Placozoa, in general, can be viewed as prospective reference species in traditional evolutionary and system biology but have the yet unexplored potential for planetary ecology and space biomedicine.
Exploring the effect of gestational diabetes mellitus on retinal vascular morphology by PKSEA-Net
Authors: Jiang Ligang , Ji Yimei , Liu Mengting , Fang Ruolin , Zhu Zhentao , Zhang Meizhen , Tong Yuhua
Published: January 2025

Background

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a temporary metabolic disorder in which small retinal vessels may have experience subtle changes before clinical lesions of the fundus retina appear. An innovative artificial intelligence image processing technology was applied to locate and analyze the small retinal vessel morphology and accurately evaluate the changes of the small retinal vessels in GDM patients and pregnant women with normal blood glucose and non-pregnant women with normal blood glucose.

Methods

The subjects were divided into three groups:GDM group, pregnant control group (PC), and normal control group (NC). Use optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) to collect OCT images of subjects,and perform quantitative identification and analysis of retinal vessel parameters based on artificial intelligence measurement software integrated the prior knowledge supervised edge-aware multi-task network (PKSEA-Net): Retinal arteriolar lumen diameter (RALD), retinal arteriolar outer diameter (RAOD), retinal venular lumen diameter (RVLD),retinal venular outer diameter (RVOD),arterial wall thickness (AWT),venular wall thickness (VWT),arterial wall to lumen ratio (AWLR),venular wall to lumen ratio (VWLR),arterial wall cross-sectional area (AWCSA),venular wall cross-sectional area (VWCSA), arteriovenous ratio (AVR).

Results

This study revealed significant differences in RVOD, RVLD, VWT, VWCSA and AVR between the GDM group and the PC group (p = 0.005, p < 0.027, p = 0.008, p = 0.001, p = 0.022), significant differences in RVOD, RVLD, VWT, VWCSA and AVR between the GDM group and the NC group (p < 0.001, p = 0.001, p < 0.001, p < 0.001, p = 0.001). In GDM group, RVOD, RVLD, VWT and VWCSA increased, while AVR decreased. There were no significant differences in RVOD, RVLD, VWT, VWCSA and AVR between PC group and NC group (p = 0.139, p = 0.263, p = 0.107, p = 0.059, p = 0.218), and no significant differences in VWLR among the three groups (p > 0.05). No significant difference was observed in retinal artery vascular parameters (RAOD, RALD, AWT, AWLR, AWCSA) across the three groups (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

There were increases in RVOD, RVLD, VWT, and VWCSA, decrease in AVR in patients with GDM. However, no significant difference of retinal vascular parameters was shown between normal pregnant women and normal non-pregnant women. PKSEA-Net can assist to identify changes in retinal vascular morphology and diagnose micro-vascular lesion early in normal pregnant women and high-risk groups of GDM.
Application of metagenomic next-generation sequencing in the diagnosis of post-stroke infections: a case series study using multiple sample types
Authors: Chen Xiaopu , Liang Yong , Yang Wei , He Wenzhen , Xing Zhiqiang , Li Shunxian , Cai Shaoyu , Fu Jiping , Peng Xiaotang , Chen Manli , Wu Jiaming
Published: January 2025

Background

Metagenomic high-throughput sequencing (mNGS) represents a powerful tool for detecting nucleic acids from various pathogens, such as bacteria, fungi, viruses and parasites, in clinical samples. Despite its extensively employed in the pathogen diagnosis for various infectious diseases, its application in diagnosing stroke-related infection, and its potential impact on clinical decision-making, anti-infection treatment, clinical intervention, and patient prognosis remain insufficiently explored. Additionally, while mNGS offers promising potential, it facts limitations related to sensitivity, specificity, cost, and standardization, which could influence its integration into routine clinical practice.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 18 stroke patients admitted to the First Affiliated Hospital of Medical College of Shantou University from January to February 2023, comparing culture-based methods with mNGS detection, and assessing its significance in etiological diagnosis. Additionally, we evaluated the performance differences among various sequencing platforms.

Results

Among the 18 stroke patients enrolled, pulmonary infections were identified in 7 cases, urinary tract infections in 1 case, central nervous system infections in 10 cases, and combined pulmonary and central nervous system infections in 2 cases, with 2 cases yielding negative results. mNGS detected pathogens in 13 cases, aligning with clinical diagnoses (75% concordance), whereas culture-based methods yielded positive results in only 6 cases (22% concordance). Importantly, for 9 of the 18 patients, adjustments to anti-infective treatment regimens based on mNGS results led to improved symptomatic relief and infection control. This suggests that mNGS can contribute to more timely and precise treatment modifications, particularly for infections with low pathogen loads, potentially enhancing clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Our findings highlights the utility of mNGS in diagnosing stroke-associated infections by providing a more comprehensive etiological diagnosis compared to traditional method. While mNGS shows promise in enhancing diagnostic accuracy and guiding clinical treatment, it high cost and technical challenges need addressing before widespread clinical adoption. Future research should focus on optimizing mNGS protocols, integration it with convertional diagnostic tools, and evaluating its cost-effectiveness and clinical impact through larger, multicentric studies.
Exosomes derived from syncytia induced by SARS-2-S promote the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells
Authors: Li Huilong , Lin Haotian , Fan Tinghui , Huang Linfei , Zhou Li , Tian Xiaoyu , Zhao Ruzhou , Zhang Yanhong , Yang Xiaopan , Wan Luming , Zhong Hui , Jiang Nan , Wei Congwen , Chen Wei , Hou Lihua
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is characterized by fever, fatigue, dry cough, dyspnea, mild pneumonia and acute lung injury (ALI), which can lead to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), and SARS-CoV-2 can accelerate tumor progression. However, the molecular mechanism for the increased mortality in cancer patients infected with COVID-19 is unclear.

Methods

Colony formation and wound healing assays were performed on Huh-7 cells cocultured with syncytia. Exosomes were purified from the cell supernatant and verified by nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA), Western blot (WB) analysis and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Differentially expressed proteins in syncytia-derived exosomes (Syn-Exos) and their functions was analyzed by Proteomic sequencing. Syn-Exo-mediated promotion of hepatocellular carcinoma cells was measured by CCK-8 and Transwell migration assays. The mechanism by which Syn-Exos promote tumor growth was analyzed by Western blotting. A patient-derived xenotransplantation (PDX) mouse model was constructed to evaluate the pathological role of the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein (SARS-2-S). The number of syncytia in the tumor tissue sections was determined by immunofluorescence analysis.

Results

Syncytium formation promoted the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Proteomic sequencing revealed that proteins that regulate cell proliferation and metastasis in Syn-Exos were significantly upregulated. Syn-Exos promote the proliferation and migration of hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Animal experiments showed that a pseudotyped lentivirus bearing SARS-2-S (SARS-2-Spp) promoted tumor development in PDX mice. More syncytia were found in tumor tissue from SARS-2-Spp mice than from VSV-Gpp mice.

Conclusions

Syn-Exos induced by SARS-2-S can promote the proliferation and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma cells.
Perceptions of climatic variability among millet farmers: insights from tribal communities in the Kolli Hills, Tamil Nadu, South India
Authors: Chapke Rajendra R. , Satyavathi C. Tara , Israel Oliver King E. D. , Laxmiprasanna Peddiveeti , Priyanka Vavilala
Published: January 2025

Climate change has a diversified impact on the accessibility to resources and maintaining food security for the growing population. In this era, climate-resilient crops such as millet have greater importance and impact on the food security of the nation. Millet cultivation in tribal areas of India presents a unique example of resilience in response to climatic variability. The research was conducted in the Kolli Hills of the Namakkal district in the state of Tamil Nadu to study the tribal farmers’ perception of climate change. Data were collected from 125 tribal farmers from five villages using a multistage random sampling method and a verified semi-structured interview schedule. Both qualitative and quantitative data were collected for analysis with different statistical tools. The majority of tribal farmers were found to be in the young age, with a high level of illiteracy and had less than 1.5 hectares of land with low mass media utility and limited decision-making ability. It was revealed that in recent years occurrences of drought, untimely rains, temperature fluctuations, and irregular weather conditions have increased. Most of the tribal farmers perceived that climate change substantially impacts low-resourced farmers’ ability to secure their livelihoods. Social participation and mass media utilization were positively correlated with tribal farmers’ perception of climatic variability. Scientific institutional knowledge and local community knowledge must be integrated with the farmers’ experiences of climate change to enable them to minimize the effect of climate change on millet production and develop a strategy that improve production under future climate scenarios. The study recommends the integration of traditional millet farming practices with modern agricultural techniques as well as the need for targeted policies that strengthen institutional support, market access, and capacity-building initiatives for tribal farmers.
Multipath joint ablation strategy for focal atrial tachycardia originating from patent foramen ovale: a case report
Authors: Liu Fuqiang , Li Yifei , Yan Song , Liu Lijun , Zhou Kaiyu , Hua Yimin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Focal atrial tachycardia (FAT) is predominant in the pediatric population. Recent research has identified cases of sustained FAT originating from the interatrial septum (IAS); a subset of cases presents a unique challenge, with foci originating from the peri-patent foramen ovale (peri-PFO), requiring specialized management during catheter ablation. Here, we present a rare case of peri-PFO-associated FAT that resulted in tachycardia-related cardiomyopathy and propose a comprehensive multipath joint strategy for the successful treatment of PFO-associated FAT.

Case presentation

A 10-year-old boy presented with refractory cardiomyopathy associated with incessant atrial tachycardia, unresponsive to metoprolol. A 12-lead electrocardiogram revealed a narrow QRS complex tachycardia with a rate of 157 beats per minute and a prolonged RP relationship. Echocardiography indicated a severely reduced ejection fraction of 22%. Subsequent electrophysiological study findings identified the tachycardia as originating from the anterior limbus of the PFO. Radiofrequency ablation was performed at the earliest activation site and surrounding structures, encompassing the right atrial septum, non-coronary sinus of Valsalva, and the left atrium peri-PFO. Post-procedure, the patient remained free from arrhythmia and showed restored normal cardiac function and was prescribed a low-dose β-blocker for 1 month. Remarkably, the patient continued to be well without the need for any medications for the subsequent 3 months.

Conclusion

The structure of the PFO brought significant challenges in performing successful ablation. The multipath strategy was beneficial in managing peri-PFO-associated FAT based on its anatomical vicinity of the target.
Using ERA-5 LAND reanalysis rainfall data to better evaluate the performance of the regional shallow landslide early warning system of Piemonte (north-western Italy) in the context of climate change
Authors: Botto Valentina , Tiranti Davide , Barbarino Simona , Ronchi Christian
Published: January 2025

To correctly understand how and whether climate change has influenced the behavior of shallow landslide events over the last century, it is essential to carefully identify the historical series of phenomena and their respective triggering causes, as well as to accurately select the most appropriate analytical tools to minimize the degree of uncertainty in statistical correlation of causes and effects. Shallow landslide events occurring from 1960 to 2023 in Piemonte (NW Italy) are considered here, for which the primary triggering cause is represented by rainfall events, with a negligible contribution from antecedent precipitations. This paper is an update of a previous study, adding to the analysis recent widespread landslide events covering a wider time range with new precipitation data (additional 4 years). The primary difference lies in the use of a different method to analyze the rainfall responsible for the occurrence of shallow landslides. In particular, the results obtained for 24 and 48 h rainfall durations, when compared with the triggering thresholds of the R-SLEWS (previously employed the Optimal Interpolation Method), are verified using new and more flexible method for reconstructing triggering rainfall based on ERA5-Land hourly precipitation data. The new approach moderately improves the identification of actual triggering rainfall over 24 h but is less performant when it comes to identifying triggering shallow landslides over 48 h. Where no significant improvements in the detection of rainfall-inducing shallow landslide events are obtained, the method can still be effectively used in areas with a sparser rain gauge network, which can rely less on observed precipitation data.
Backward erosion piping mechanism in dike foundations with and without landside blanket layers: numerical simulation of size effects
Authors: Yao Qiuling , Yan Xiping , Wu Zebin , Hao Huiqing , Ma Meihong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the backward erosion piping mechanism and its dependency on model size through both experiments and numerical simulations. The objective is to understand how different model dimensions affect the hydraulic gradients and piping behavior in dike systems.

Methods

Numerical simulations were performed using the finite element method (FEM), where the dike foundation was modeled in 3D and seepage flow was simulated under various hydraulic gradients. Physical experiments were also conducted using small-scale dike models to verify the numerical results and study the effects of model size.

Results and Discussion

The results show that in dikes without blanket layers, hydraulic gradients increase steadily as the piping channel develops, leading to upstream erosion and failure. In contrast, dikes with a blanket layer exhibit a stabilizing effect: the hydraulic gradient initially decreases before increasing, leading to a self-healing phenomenon that halts further channel progression. The study further reveals that the size effect—indicated by hydraulic gradients—diminishes with larger model dimensions and becomes negligible beyond a certain threshold. Additionally, the interaction between model width and depth significantly influences the progression of piping. These findings offer valuable insights for designing more resilient dike systems and improving flood protection strategies.
Ethnic, socioeconomic, and demographic determinants of generalized anxiety disorder and fear of COVID-19 among teenagers in California, United States: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Kumra Elina , Patange Amit
Published: January 2025

Background and objective

The COVID-19 pandemic substantially impacted mental health globally, leading to increased levels of anxiety and fear. Although it is well known that socioeconomic factors and ethnicity play a role in mental health outcomes, the intersectional effects of these determinants during the pandemic are unclear, especially among adolescents. Thus, this study sought to explore the relationship between socioeconomic factors, ethnicity, and two mental health parameters—fear of COVID-19 (FCV) and generalized anxiety disorder (GAD)—among high school students in California, United States.

Methods

A cross-sectional analysis was performed with 990 high school-aged participants from the San Joaquin Valley and Santa Clara County, California, recruited via convenience/snowball sampling using an online questionnaire from 15 June to 14 August 2022. The Fear of Coronavirus Scale (FCV-19S) and Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) were used to measure fear and anxiety, respectively.

Results

The results reveal significant associations between ethnicity, socioeconomic status (i.e., family income), and FCV-19S and GAD-7 scores. Severe GAD and FCV were reported in 9.8% (n = 97) and 8.38% (n = 83) of participants. Black participants reported significantly higher levels of FCV (F = 6.867, p < 0.001) and generalized anxiety (F = 17.066, <0.001) than their counterparts Additionally, girls exhibited higher anxiety scores (t = 2.960, p = 0.003, CI = 0.23–1.15) and fear scores (t = 3.619, p = 0.001, CI = 0.40–1.37) than boys. Furthermore, fear and anxiety scores exhibited a strong positive correlation (r = 0.702, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study suggests that gender, ethnicity, and socioeconomic factors are significantly linked to higher levels of FCV and GAD in teenagers during the pandemic. These findings underscore the importance of considering social determinants of mental health when addressing the psychological impact of COVID-19 on teenagers, particularly for vulnerable populations.
Adaptation of shell morphology to different tidal zones—insights into phenotypic plasticity of Littorina brevicula
Authors: Lai Siqi , Shi Ling , Han Yida , Tian Ying , Hao Zhenlin
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The adaptability of intertidal gastropods to their environmental niches is a critical aspect of their survival. Littorina brevicula, a common intertidal snail, exhibits phenotypic plasticity in response to varying tidal conditions. This study investigates the phenotypic plasticity and shell structure of L. brevicula across two disparate tidal zones to understand how these factors influence shell morphology and growth.

Methods

A total of 254 specimens of L. brevicula were collected from the intertidal expanse. The analytical approach was tripartite, including traditional morphometric techniques, geometric morphometric methods (GM), and three-dimensional (3D) model simulation analyses. This comprehensive methodology allowed for a detailed examination of shell morphology and growth patterns.

Results

The results demonstrated that shell growth in the high tidal zone was slower compared to the mid tidal zone. Morphological disparities were evident, with high tidal zone specimens showing lower spires and a more spherical shell conformation, while mid tidal zone specimens had elongated spires and a tower-like shell shape. 3D model simulation analyses revealed different stress distributions; the mid-tide zone simulation showed concentrated stress in a circumscribed region, whereas the high-tide zone simulation showed a more expansive stress distribution across the entire shell.

Discussion

The distinct morphological adaptations observed in L. brevicula across tidal zones suggest a strong influence of environmental factors on shell morphology. The slower growth and different stress distribution patterns in the high tidal zone may be indicative of the snails' response to more challenging environmental conditions. These findings provide essential evidence for understanding the adaptability of intertidal gastropods to their environmental niches.
River health assessment based on set pair analysis model in typical Northern Chinese City
Authors: Bu Jiuhe , Wang Tao , Xu Tian
Published: January 2025

Rivers are critical to ecological and societal sustainability, yet human activities like urbanization, industrialization, and agricultural runoff increasingly threaten their ecological health. This study investigates the ecological health of six major rivers in Dalian City, China, focusing on the relationships between aquatic biological communities and environmental factors. A total of 168 phytoplankton species, 110 zooplankton species, and 102 macrozoobenthos species were identified. The key environmental factors influencing these communities included pH, dissolved oxygen, ammonium nitrogen, total phosphorus, and altitude. Using an entropy-weighted set pair analysis model, spatial variations in river ecosystem health were evaluated. Monitoring sites S12 and S15 exhibited good health conditions, while sites S4, S8, and S17 were rated as poor (Grade IV), and S7 was severely polluted (Grade V). Other sites showed borderline health (Grade III). This research provides valuable insights for improving river ecosystem management and biodiversity conservation in Dalian City, offering a scientific basis for addressing water quality and ecological challenges.
Hyperthermia suppresses the biological characteristics and migration of chicken primordial germ cells
Authors: Gu Yuzhou , Wu Kexin , Niu Bowen , Wang Zhiting , Jie Yuchen , Fan Zixuan , Li Junying , Sun Congjiao , Hou Zhuo-Cheng , Shao Li-Wa
Published: January 2025

Primordial germ cells (PGCs) play a crucial role in transmitting genetic information to the next-generation. In chickens, genetically edited PGCs can be propagated in vitro and subsequently transplanted into recipient embryos to produce offspring with desired genetic traits. However, during early embryogenesis, the effects of external conditions on PGC migration through the vascular system to the gonads have yet to be explored, which may affect the efficiency of preparing gene-edited chickens. In this study, we investigated the effects of hyperthermia on the biological characteristics and migration of chicken PGCs. A gonad-derived PGC line of White Leghorn (WLH) chicken was established and verified through PAS staining and immunofluorescence of PGC-specific proteins. To visually observe PGC migration in vivo, GFP-positive PGCs were prepared and locations of chimeras were validated. Cell viability, glycogen granule contents, and mRNA expression levels of pluripotency markers (NANOG and POUV), germ cell-specific markers (DAZL and CVH), and telomerase reverse transcriptase (TERT) were reduced in PGCs cultured under high temperatures (43°C for 12, 24, and 48 h). After the heat treatment of donor PGCs (43°C) or recipient embryos (39.5°C), GFP-positive PGCs in gonads were rarely observed. Taken together, our results underscore the negative effects of hyperthermia on the biological characteristics and migration of chicken PGCs, which provides valuable insights for the implementation of PGC-based gene editing techniques in chickens.
Detection of inversion with breakpoints in ARSB causing MPS VI by whole-genome sequencing: lessons learned and best practices
Authors: Huang Yufeng , Deng Wenyue , Huang Hui , Zhang Xiankai , Chen Xiaohong , Ye Jian , Luo Sukun , Yu Ting , Yao Hui , Du Hao , He Xuelian
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Mucopolysaccharidosis type VI (MPSVI), an autosomal recessive lysosomal storage disorder caused by pathogenic variants in ARSB gene. Usually, whole exome sequencing (WES) can identify these variants, and if WES failed to detect causative variants, whole-genome sequencing (WGS) may be considered to investigate deep intronic variations and structural alterations in patients.

Methods

Whole-exome sequencing (WES) and whole genome sequencing (WGS) were performed in a Chinese family having a boy with suspected diagnosis of MPS with macrocephaly, coarse facial features, broad forehead, thick lips, frontal bossing, craniosynostosis, blue spots, frequent upper respiratory infections, inguinal hernia, and dysostosis multiplex. Lysosomal enzymatic assays for leucocytes were used to assess the activity of arylsulfatase B of the boy’s leucocytes. Sanger sequencing and karyotyping analysis were used to validate the variants identified in the boy and his parents.

Results

This boy diagnosed with MPSVI based on clinical phenotypes and laboratory biochemical assays, and WES identified only a maternally inherited missense variant, c.908G>T (p.Gly303Val), in the ARSB gene. By performing WGS, we found a paracentric inversion involving chromosome 5q14.1q13.2 (78180730-138771424 inv), disrupting the ARSB gene on the proband and his father. The inversion was confirmed through karyotyping analysis, and the breakpoints were validated by agarose gel electrophoresis and Sanger sequencing.

Disscussion

This study reminds us that WGS should be done when WES failed to achieve a molecular diagonosis, and it also underscores the importance of WGS especially in cases of high clinical suspicion.
Genotypic variability in stress responses of Sorghum bicolor under drought and salinity conditions
Authors: Alzahrani Yahya , Abdulbaki Abdulbaki Shehu , Alsamadany Hameed
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Sorghum bicolor: widely cultivated in Asia and Africa, faces increasing challenges from climate change, specifically from abiotic stresses like drought and salinity. This study evaluates how different sorghum genotypes respond to separate and combined stresses of drought and salinity.

Methods

Carried out with three replications using a randomized complete block design, the experiment measured biochemical and physiological parameters, including stomatal conductance, chlorophyll content, and antioxidant enzyme activities. Molecular analysis focused on stress-responsive gene expression.

Results

Results indicated enhanced stress responses under combined conditions, with significant variation in antioxidant enzymatic activities among genotypes. Genotype-specific osmotic adjustments were observed through proline and glycine betaine accumulation. Physiological parameters such as chlorophyll content, cell membrane stability, stomatal conductance, and water potential were critical indicators of stress tolerance. Gene expression analysis revealed upregulation of stress-responsive genes, particularly under combined stress conditions.

Discussion

Correlation and principal component analysis analyses highlighted the interdependencies among traits, emphasizing their roles in oxidative stress mitigation. Samsorg-17 exhibited the highest resilience due to consistently high levels of catalase, superoxide dismutase, and glycine betaine, alongside superior physiological attributes. CRS-01 showed moderate resilience with the highest Na/K ratio and notable photosynthesis rate and relative water content, but was less consistent in biochemical markers under stress. Samsorg-42 demonstrated resilience under specific conditions but was generally less robust than Samsorg-17 across most indicators. These findings emphasize the importance of developing stress-resilient sorghum cultivars through targeted breeding programs to enhance tolerance to drought and salinity in sustainable agriculture.
Investigating the relationship between the immune response and the severity of COVID-19: a large-cohort retrospective study
Authors: Margiotta Riccardo Giuseppe , Sozio Emanuela , Del Ben Fabio , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Cesselli Daniela , Comar Marco , Devito Alessandra , Fabris Martina , Curcio Francesco , Tascini Carlo , Sanguinetti Guido
Published: January 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic has left an indelible mark globally, presenting numerous challenges to public health. This crisis, while disruptive and impactful, has provided a unique opportunity to gather precious clinical data extensively. In this observational, case-control study, we utilized data collected at the Azienda Sanitaria Universitaria Friuli Centrale, Italy, to comprehensively characterize the immuno-inflammatory features in COVID-19 patients. Specifically, we employed multicolor flow cytometry, cytokine assays, and inflammatory biomarkers to elucidate the interplay between the infectious agent and the host’s immune status. We characterized immuno-inflammatory profiles within the first 72 hours of hospital admission, stratified by age, disease severity, and time elapsed since symptom onset. Our findings indicate that patients admitted to the hospital shortly after symptom onset exhibit a distinct pattern compared to those who arrive later, characterized by a more active immune response and heightened cytokine activity, but lower markers of tissue damage. We used univariate and multivariate logistic regression models to identify informative markers for outcome severity. Predictors incorporating the immuno-inflammatory features significantly outperformed standard baselines, identifying up to 59% of patients with positive outcomes while maintaining a false omission rate as low as 4%. Overall, our study sheds light on the immuno-inflammatory aspects observed in COVID-19 patients prior to vaccination, providing insights for guiding the clinical management of first-time infections by a novel virus.
Pomacea canaliculata hemocyanin as a novel natural immunostimulant in mammals
Authors: Chiumiento Ignacio Rafael , Tricerri María Alejandra , Cortéz María Fernanda , Ituarte Santiago , Tau Julia , Mariño Karina Valeria , Smaldini Paola Lorena , Heras Horacio , Dreon Marcos Sebastián
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Gastropod hemocyanins are potent immunostimulants in mammals, a trait associated with their large molecular size and unusual glycosylation patterns. While the hemocyanin from the marine snail keyhole limpet (KLH), has been widely studied and successfully employed as a carrier/adjuvant in several immunological applications, as well as a non-specific immunostimulant for bladder cancer treatment, few other gastropod hemocyanins have been biochemically and immunologically characterized. In this work, we investigated the immunogenic properties of the hemocyanin from Pomacea canaliculata (PcH), an invasive south American freshwater snail. This species, known for its high reproductive rate and easy rearing, represents a promising source of potential biomedical compounds, including hemocyanin.

Methods

Employing flow cytometry, fluorescence microscopy, immunoassays, and quantitative PCR, we analysed the effects of PcH on THP-1 monocytes and their derived macrophages, as well as its ability to induce humoral response on C57BL/6 mice. Additionally, we evaluated the structural stability of PcH across a wide range of temperature and pH values.

Results and discussion

Our findings demonstrate that PcH is a structurally stable protein that not only triggers a pro-inflammatory effect on THP-1 derived-macrophages by increasing IL1-β and TNF-α levels, but also promotes phenotypic changes associated with the monocyte-to-macrophage differentiation. Moreover, the humoral response induced by PcH in mice was indistinguishable from that of KLH, highlighting the promising immunostimulatory properties of this freshwater snail hemocyanin.