bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hybrid ANN-Based and Text Similarity Method for Automatic Short Answer Grading in Polish
Authors: Bani Saad Marwah , Jackowska-Strumillo Lidia , Bieniecki Wojciech
Published: December 2024

Computer-assisted grading plays an important role in an educational context, mainly by reducing the workload of teachers in manual scoring. While electronic choice surveys have long been used in many web applications, automatic scoring of open-ended responses remains an interesting research problem in natural language processing. In this article, we propose a new hybrid text-processing method for scoring students' responses based on word splitting and preprocessing, which will then combine textual algorithms with a set of artificial neural network classifiers and a set of heuristic decision rules. This concept has been implemented in the interactive e-test system operating in the local computer network of the Institute of Applied Computer Science at the Lodz University of Technology (TUL). The dataset is acquired as questions, reference answers and students' answers generated on the basis of exams conducted at our institute in the years 2015-2022 for more than a thousand students. This article extends our previous research [1, 2, 3] and includes comparative tests. The proposed method achieves excellent results and outperforms the previous approaches. The obtained precision is equal to 1, and the recall measure is 0.97 for the final results. The algorithm is designed for the Polish language but can be adapted to other inflected languages.
Systemic Acquired Resistance: Plant Priming for Ecological Management of Mealybug-Induced Wilt in MD2 and Queen Victoria Pineapple
Authors: Soler* Alain , Pochat Corentin , Perrin Marie , Mendoza Jessica , Latchimy Flora
Published: December 2024

Pineapple is highly susceptible to "Wilt disease," caused by the biotrophic insect Dysmicoccus brevipes, which also transmits for several wilt-associated viruses (PMWaVs). Conventional farms manage mealybugs and wilt disease. However, many of these chemicals have been banned in Europe due to safety concerns, leading to researches on pesticide-free control methods. Plants have developed natural defences, such as systemic acquired resistance (SAR), against pathogens and pests. In this study, salicylic acid (10⁻³ M) was applied to MD2 and Queen Victoria pineapple plants, followed by mealybug infestation. This treatment enhanced defences, assessed through mealybug multiplication rates, and biochemical and molecular responses of tissue-cultured plantlets under controlled conditions. Phenylalanine ammonia-lyase activity (PAL) was measured as a potential SAR signalling enzymatic marker. Additionally, four gene expressions were analyzed: AcPAL and AcICS2) both linked to salicylic acid synthesis; AcMYB-like, a transcription factor regulating salicylic acid biosynthesis; and AcCAT involved in H2O2 level control in plants. SA elicitation reduced the mealybug multiplication rate by 70% on pineapples. Under our conditions, the biochemical marker (PAL) and three molecular markers (AcPAL, AcICS2, AcCAT) showed significant differences between primed and unprimed plants, indicating SAR induction and its role in the pineapple-mealybug interaction. SAR priming offers a promising, eco-friendly strategy for managing mealybug populations and reducing Wilt disease in pesticide-free pineapple cropping systems.
Persepsi Anak tentang Pengaruh Teknologi dan Tradisi Lisan terhadap Perkembangan Kognitif dan Karakter Anak
Authors: Sari Mia Zultrianti , Supriatna Nana , Disman Disman , Kristanto Kiki , Handayani Santi
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengukur dan menganalisis pengaruh penggunaan teknologi terhadap perkembangan kognitif dan karakter anak di sekolah dasar. Menggunakan pendekatan kuantitatif dengan survei, penelitian ini melibatkan 10 sekolah dasar di daerah Kuningan, yaitu Sekolah Dasar Negeri 1 Awirarangan, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 2 Awirarangan, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 2 Winduhaji, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 3 Winduhaji, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 17 Kuningan, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 4 Windusengkahan, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 3 Windusengkahan, Sekolah Dasar 1 Ciloa, Sekolah Dasar Negeri 1 Bayuning, dan Sekolah Dasar Negeri 2 Kuningan. Subjek penelitian yaitu anak-anak dan tenaga pendidik, yang memberikan data melalui kuesioner dengan menggunakan skala Likert. Analisis data menggunakan statistik deskriptif dan inferensial untuk mengidentifikasi pola, hubungan, dan perbedaan signifikan pada variabel yang diteliti. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa penggunaan teknologi dapat mempengaruhi perkembangan kognitif dan karakter anak dengan cara yang berbeda, baik positif maupun negatif. Temuan ini memberikan wawasan baru mengenai cara efektif dalam memanfaatkan teknologi untuk mendukung pendidikan anak sekolah dasar, serta pentingnya pendekatan yang seimbang antara teknologi dan interaksi langsung dalam proses pembelajaran.
Pengaruh Inovasi Pembelajaran dan Kurikulum Merdeka Terhadap Karakter Kemandirian Belajar Peserta Didik di Manado
Authors: Mentang Paulus Joseph , Mua Marianus Muharli
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis pengaruh inovasi pembelajaran dan kurikulum merdeka terhadap karakter kemandirian belajar peserta didik di Sekolah Menengah Atas (SMA) dan Sekolah Menengah Kejuruan (SMK) Katolik di Kota Manado. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kuantitatif dengan teknik analisis regresi untuk mengukur hubungan antar variabel. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa terdapat pengaruh yang baik dan signifikan inovasi pembelajaran guru terhadap karakter kemandirian belajar peserta didik dengan Uji T sebesar 16.029 > 0,159  nilai t Tabel dan dengan signifikansi 0,000 ˂ 0,05 sedangkan koefisien determinasi diperoleh R 0,664 dan R2 sebesar 0,718, terdapat pengaruh yang baik dan signifikan kurikulum merdeka terhadap karakter kemandirian belajar peserta didik dengan Uji T sebesar 15.029 > 0,159  nilai t Tabel dan dengan signifikansi 0,000 ˂ 0,05 sedangkan koefisien determinasi R sebesar 0,694 dan R2 sebesar 0,758, terdapat pengaruh yang baik dan signifikan inovasi pembelajaran dan kurikulum merdeka terhadap karakter kemandirian belajar SMA dan SMK Katolik di Kota Manado dengan Uji F sebesar 131.181 > 0,199 dan nilai F tabel dengan signifikansi 0,000 ˂ 0,05 dengan koefisien R sebesar 0,795, R2 sebesar 0,632 dan adjusted R2 sebesar 0,627.
Analysis of Value Alignment and Ethical Guardianship of Learning with AI in Civic Education
Authors: Agustin Ririn Dwi , Wiyono Subelo , Yamanto Redi
Published: December 2024

The rapid development of information technology, particularly Artificial Intelligence (AI), has significantly impacted various aspects of human life, including education. This study analyses the value alignment and ethical guardianship of AI-powered learning, specifically ChatGPT, in Civic Education. The research aims to assess how AI, particularly ChatGPT, aligns with moral judgments grounded in Pancasila values, a core component of Civic Education in Indonesia. Using a qualitative approach involving document analysis and expert interviews, this study investigates the ethical implications, potential risks, and safety concerns associated with using ChatGPT in educational settings. The findings indicate that while ChatGPT is user-friendly and capable of processing natural language, there are notable issues related to its accuracy, contextual understanding, and ethical considerations. The study concludes that the responsibility for misinformation or ethical breaches remains ambiguous, necessitating a more cautious approach to integrating AI in Civic Education. The implications suggest the need for comprehensive guidelines and frameworks to ensure that AI tools are used responsibly, maintaining alignment with the cultural and moral values of Indonesia.
Penguatan Nilai Nasionalisme di Era Digital: Analisis Isi Narasi Dakwah Habib Luthfi Bin Yahya di Instagram
Authors: Kartika Rika , Suryadi Karim , Rahmat Rahmat , Syaifullah Syaifullah
Published: December 2024

Nilai-nilai nasionalisme merupakan nilai yang diperlukan oleh setiap bangsa untuk terus mengawal agenda pembangunan. Salah satu aktor penting dalam menjalankan tugas ini adalah para ulama termasuk para ulama di Indonesia dari keturunan Arab Hadrami yang dikenal dengan sebutan Habaib atau Habib dengan dakwahnya. Pada era pemerintahan Joko Widodo, Habib Luthfi bin Yahya diangkat menjadi anggota Dewan Pertimbangan Presiden Periode 2019—2014. Penelitian ini mengkaji narasi nilai-nilai kebangsaan yang diutarakan oleh Habib Luthfi bin Yahya di platform Instagram. Metode yang digunakan adalah analisis isi kualitatif dari unggahan Instagram untuk menemukan  nilai-nilai kebangsaan dalam dakwah. Penelitian ini menunjukkan dakwah Habib Luthfi bin Yahya di Instagram yang mencerminkan nilai-nilai nasionalisme, yaitu cinta tanah air, persatuan, etika moral, toleransi dan perdamaian dengan memanfaatkan strategi media sosial dengan pola komunikasi yang inklusif. Temuan ini menunjukkan sosial media bukan sekadar platform distribusi pesan, tetapi wadah untuk mengatasi polarisasi di era digital. Penelitian ini menyoroti fenomena dakwah digital untuk menghadapi narasi intoleran yang tersebar di media sosial.
Penerapan Prinsip-prinsip Etika Pelayanan pada Mall Pelayanan Publik Terpadu di Kota Banda Aceh
Authors: Safrizal Safrizal , Maimun Maimun , Putra Irwan , Sanusi Sanusi
Published: December 2024

Mall pelayanan publik terpadu (MPPT) Kota Banda Aceh didirikan untuk meningkatkan efisiensi dan transparansi pelayanan pemerintah kepada masyarakat. Namun, terdapat berbagai keluhan dari masyarakat terkait rendahnya kualitas pelayanan, yang memunculkan pertanyaan tentang sejauh mana aparatur pemerintahan menerapkan etika dalam pelaksanaan tugas mereka. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengkaji pelaksanaan prinsip-prinsip etika pelayanan publik yang ditunjukkan oleh aparatur di MPPT Kota Banda Aceh. Metode penelitian yang digunakan adalah kualitatif deskriptif, dengan pengumpulan data melalui wawancara mendalam, observasi, dan studi dokumentasi. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa prinsip-prinsip etika pelayanan seperti tanggung jawab, integritas, dan profesionalisme belum diterapkan secara optimal oleh aparatur pada mal pelayanan publik terpadu di kota Banda Aceh. Terdapat kesenjangan antara harapan masyarakat dan realisasi kinerja aparatur dalam memberikan pelayanan publik. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian ini dapat ditarik kesimpulan bahwa pelaksanaan prinsip-prinsip etika pelayanan publik oleh pegawai pemerintahan pada mall pelayanan publik yang belum optimal dapat dioptimalkan dengan meningkatkan pemahaman aparatur pemerintah tentang etika pelayanan berbasis nilai-nilai Syariat Islam, sehingga mampu memenuhi harapan masyarakat secara lebih baik.
Konsep Spiritualitas Pastoral Paul Janssen dalam Pengalaman Alumni Institut Pastoral Indonesia dalam Tugas Gereja
Authors: Wiwin Wiwin , Nini Klemensia , Fua Maria Bintang Ahista
Published: December 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menggali dan memahami konsep spiritualitas pastoral Paul Janssen serta implementasinya dalam karya pastoral oleh alumni Institut Pastoral Indonesia (IPI) Malang. Paul Janssen dikenal sebagai tokoh yang mengedepankan pendekatan pastoral yang relasional, inkulturatif, dan transformatif. Konsep spiritualitas pastoral yang diusungnya telah memengaruhi pembentukan paradigma pastoral di IPI dan praktik pastoral para alumninya yang tersebar di berbagai wilayah Indonesia. Fokus penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis bagaimana alumni IPI menerapkan prinsip-prinsip spiritualitas pastoral Janssen dalam pelayanan pastoral mereka, khususnya dalam konteks sosial, budaya, dan gerejawi yang beragam. Penelitian ini menggunakan metode kualitatif dengan pendekatan fenomenologis. Pengumpulan data dilakukan melalui wawancara mendalam dengan alumni yang terlibat dalam karya pastoral di berbagai wilayah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa spiritualitas pastoral Janssen memberikan dasar yang kuat bagi alumni IPI dalam mengembangkan relasi yang bermakna dengan umat, beradaptasi dengan konteks lokal, dan menghadirkan pembaruan dalam karya pastoral. Selain itu, penelitian ini juga menemukan bahwa alumni IPI mengadopsi nilai-nilai kasih, harapan, dan iman yang terintegrasi dalam karya pelayanan, sejalan dengan semangat pastoral Paul Janssen yang inklusif dan berpusat pada umat.
Artificial Intellegence In The Future Of Iraqi Healthcare System
Authors: Murad Hayder
Published: December 2024

The expansion of healthcare AI in Iraq highlights the growing necessity for AI education among medical students. The aim of this research is to explore the perspectives of medical students in Iraq regarding artificial intelligence (AI), including their understanding of AI and their career aspirations. Methodologically, a group of Iraqi medical students were invited to participate in an anonymous electronic survey.
The results indicate that a total of 318 responses were collected from 22 medical colleges. The majority of respondents (91.5%, s = 291) hold the belief that AI will have a significant impact on healthcare in the future. Specifically, their responses were categorized as strongly agreeing (33.6%, s = 107) or agreeing (57.9%, s = 184).
This research reveals that Iraqi medical students recognize the significance of AI and are enthusiastic about engaging with this technology. Moreover, it suggests that there is a need to expand and enhance medical college training on AI to ensure that future healthcare professionals are well-prepared in this domain.
Investigating self-rated health and wellbeing among teachers in Finland from a salutogenic perspective
Authors: Lähteenmäki Stina F. , Fagerström Lisbeth M. , Forsman Anna K.
Published: December 2024

The teaching profession is among the most stressful occupations associated with high workloads and stress. Teacher wellbeing has received increasing attention, as it is a key factor not only to the wellbeing of the teachers, but also to their students, as well as to the prosperity of the schools and communities alike. The present study aimed to investigate teacher wellbeing from a salutogenic perspective emphasizing positive health, wellbeing, and health promotion principles. A survey was sent to members of a trade union for Finnish teachers in spring 2020. In total, 1,312 teachers responded to the Salutogenic Health Indicator Scale (SHIS), the main measurement used in this study. About 81% of the respondents were women and the majority of the participants (91%) were over 30 years old. Findings from this cross-sectional study reveal that older teachers and teachers with longer work experience reported significantly better perception of energy, cognitive ability, and expression of feelings, compared to younger teachers with more limited work experience, as well as a decrease in perceived stress. In conclusion, older, more experienced teachers were seen to be better able to cope with workplace stressors compared to their younger counterparts, which presumably is linked to a stronger sense of coherence.
ANALYSIS OF ROCK PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS OF PERMIAN DEEP IGNEOUS ROCKS IN THE NORTHERN TARIM BASIN AND APPLICATION OF WELL LEAKAGE
Authors: Kang P. , Xu Y. , Yang H. , Liu R. , Sun C. , Yuan P. , Zheng M. , Peng Y. , Liu J.
Published: December 2024

The H working area is the main production block in Ordovician formations of the Tarim Basin Oilfield. However, the lithology and velocity of the Permian igneous rocks change drastically, and the lithology changes of the igneous rocks will affect the drilling progress. Different igneous rocks have different possibilities for leakage during drilling. Therefore, it is imperative to expand research on the velocity field of Permian igneous rocks. To begin with, a petrophysical analysis was conducted on 12 rock samples from the igneous formations in this area. These samples were analyzed for physical properties, such as density, P-wave and S-wave velocity, Poisson’s ratio, Young’s modulus, and bulk modulus, under water-saturated conditions. By combining these finds with previous data from 20 igneous rock samples, we have established the relationship between P-wave and S-wave velocities, porosity, and density of the igneous rocks, providing a fundamental understanding of the velocity characteristics in this area. Subsequently, the study employed the constrained sparse pulse inversion method, specifically tailored for igneous rock, to conduct wave impedance inversion and develop a velocity model. Furthermore, utilizing the Wyllie formula and P-wave velocity–porosity formula, the rock physical data were fitted at normal temperature and atmospheric pressure to predict the porosity of the Permian igneous rocks, followed by a comparative analysis. Finally, in conjunction with seismic data and the velocity model obtained through inversion, an extensive analysis of numerous drilling failures in the Permian System was conducted. The finds were then applied to actual drilling scenarios, leading to the formulation of recommendations for drilling operations in this area.
Exploring changes in perceived employability in Australian engineering undergraduates: A pilot study
Authors: Howell Simon , Hall Wayne , Geelan David
Published: December 2024

The paper is part of a pilot study exploring how undergraduate engineering students at one Australian university perceive their own employability development over the span of their degree. The paper outlines approaches to defining employability and the individual factors within employability. Students across a range of year levels were surveyed about their perceived employability, which refers to how likely it is that an individual believes they will be able to gain employment. The paper discusses the survey results and finds that perceived employability drops as students progress through the year levels of their degree. The study strengthens previous research in this area, and reinforces the need for universities to ensure that students are supported as they enter the labour market to become the engineering professionals of the future.
Increased physical performance and reduced fatigue after personalised physiotherapy and nutritional counselling in long COVID
Authors: Garcia Berenice Jimenez , Roggeman Stijn , Leemans Lynn , Cools Wilfried , Beckwée David , De Waele Elisabeth
Published: December 2024

Background
Long COVID is a multisystemic condition with debilitating symptoms, including fatigue and post-exertional malaise. Personalised nutritional counselling and physiotherapy could provide a synergistic effect to alleviate these symptoms. However, there is a lack of evidence of the feasibility and effectiveness of such personalised multimodal therapy (PMT) including both nutrition and physiotherapy.
Methods
In this pilot study, 65 participants were randomised into either standard physiotherapy or the PMT. Nutritional counselling focussed on tailoring the energy and protein intake to the individual needs based on indirect calorimetry and nutritional assessments. Personalised physiotherapy focused on symptom-contingent pacing. The aim was to evaluate the feasibility in light of a randomised controlled trial (RCT) and to assess the effectiveness of the PMT compared to standard physiotherapy. Effectiveness outcomes (1-minute sit-to-stand test (1-MSTS), 6-minute walk test (6-MWT), and the Multidimensional Fatigue Inventory (MFI-20)) were assessed after 6, 12 and 18 weeks. Descriptive statistics and sample size calculations were performed.
Results
We observed an advancement in both groups, however, the PMT group showed a significant improvement, for 1-MST, 6-MWT and physical fatigue at 18 weeks. Participant specific trajectories suggest a growing estimated difference between groups throughout the trial. To prove these interesting finding, 181 participants should be recruited in a RCT. Study feasibility was proven.
Conclusions
The study revealed a positive trend for improved physical function and reduced fatigue in adults with long COVID after combined nutritional counselling and physiotherapy. A large-scale RCT is needed to prove the effectiveness, but the current results are hopeful.
Conspecific presence facilitates 22-kHz ultrasonic calls in male rats exposed to cat odor
Authors: Perez Miguel Bedoya , Rahman Mehek F. , McGregor Iain S.
Published: December 2024

Rats (Rattus norvegicus) exhibit defensive behaviors such as hiding, freezing, and fleeing when confronted with predators. They often emit long-duration (~ 22-kHz) ultrasonic vocalizations (USVs) in response to predator detection, unlike shorter (~ 50-kHz) USVs associated with positive states. These vocalizations can also trigger defensive behaviors in other rats. We studied the impact of a predator-associated stimulus (cat fur) and the context in which it was experienced on ~ 22-kHz and ~ 50-kHz USVs in laboratory rats, along with how the presence of conspecifics (none, one, or two familiar rats) influenced these vocalizations. Group-housed rats were habituated to a testing arena with a hide box alone or in pairs or trios. The next day, they were exposed to cat fur (1 gram) in the arena, and defensive behaviors and USVs were recorded. Subsequently, the rats returned to the arena without cat fur to assess contextual fear. Cat fur prompted significant hiding and ~ 22-kHz USVs, especially in social groups, but not in the context alone. Cat fur also suppressed ~ 50-kHz USVs, with recovery faster in trios, indicating a social buffering effect. These findings suggest that predator cues induce ~ 22-kHz USVs influenced by social context, highlighting an altruistic communicative function.
Personalized Prediction of Gait Freezing Using Dynamic Mode Decomposition
Authors: Fu Zhiwen , Lin Congping , Zhang Yiwei
Published: December 2024

Freezing of gait (FOG) is a common severe gait disorder in patients with advanced Parkinson's disease (PD). The ability to predict the onset of FOG episodes early on allows for timely intervention, which is essential for improving the life quality of patients. Machine learning and deep learning, the current methods, face real-time diagnosis challenges due to comprehensive data processing requirements. Their ''black box'' nature makes interpreting features and classification boundaries difficult. In this manuscript, we explored a dynamic mode decomposition (DMD)-based approach together with optimal delay embedding time to reconstruct and predict the time evolution of acceleration signals, and introduced a triple index based on DMD to predict and classify FOG. Our predictive analysis shows 86.45% accuracy in classification, and an early prediction rate of 81.97% of all samples with an average early prediction time of 6.13 seconds. This DMD-based approach has the potential for real-time patient specific FOG prediction.
Performance Analysis and Prediction of Asphalt Pavement Containing Municipal Solid Waste Incineration Bottom Ash Aggregate Based on MEPDG
Authors: Yu SUN , Luo JI , LIAO Jian , ZHANG Fulong , Yan GAO , Chongwei HUANG
Published: December 2024

In order to verify the difference between slag asphalt pavement and ordinary asphalt pavement in engineering practice, The Mechanistic-Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) was used to analyze and predict the performance of asphalt pavement containing municipal solid waste incineration bottom ash aggregate (MSWI BAA). The results showed that the incorporation of slag had an impact on the rut depth of the pavement, and the traffic volume had a greater impact on the rut depth. The incorporation of slag had no significant effect on the fatigue cracks of the pavement, and was less affected by temperature changes, and had little effect on the smoothness of the pavement. In general, MSWI bottom ash did not reduce the long-term performance of the asphalt pavement, which is suitable for replacing part of natural aggregate for road construction.
Hypoxia-induced Semaphorin 6B promotes the development of cervical cancer through regulating macrophage polarization
Authors: Yi Shuyan , Hu Sha , Li Wenhan , Cai Jing , Cai Liqiong , wang lufang
Published: December 2024

The progression of cervical cancer is closely related to the tumor microenvironment (TME) (which includes hypoxia and macrophages). However, the impact of hypoxia on macrophages remains to be determined. In the present study, mRNA sequencing was used to detect differential gene expression in macrophages induced from peripheral blood mononuclear cells of cervical cancer patients under hypoxic and normoxic conditions, and 236 genes were upregulated in macrophages exposed to hypoxia; these genes were mainly enriched in response to chemokines and the actin cytoskeleton. The expression of semaphorin 6B (SEMA6B) significantly increased after hypoxia treatment, and high expression of SEMA6B was related to poorer survival in cervical cancer patients. Multicolor immunofluorescence revealed that abundant CD206 + SEMA6B + TAMs were associated with poor prognosis, late clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, poor differentiation, and lymphovascular space invasion in cervical cancer patients. TIMER database analysis revealed that SEMA6B expression was positively correlated with the infiltration of M2 macrophages and Tregs and negatively correlated with the infiltration of CD4 + and CD8 + T cells. In vitro, knocking down SEMA6B in TAMs inhibited macrophage M2 polarization and the migration of macrophages. Furthermore, after coculture of macrophages with SEMA6B knockdown and cervical cancer cells, the proliferation, migration and invasion of SiHa and HeLa cells was significantly reduced. In conclusion, SEMA6B is a promoting factor for the development of cervical cancer. Targeting SEMA6B may be a potential immunotherapy approach for treating cervical cancer.
1H-NMR-based metabolomics identifies disrupted betaine metabolism as distinct serum signature of pre-frailty
Authors: Marino Carmen , Imarisio Alberto , Gasparri Clara , Napolitano Enza , Maio Anna Di , Avenali Micol , Buongarzone Gabriele , Galandra Caterina , Picascia Marta , Grimaldi Manuela , Errico Francesco , Rondanelli Mariangela , D’Ursi Anna Maria , Valente Enza Maria , Usiello Alessandro
Published: December 2024

Increasing evidence suggests that frailty results from a complex age-associated metabolic decline. Here, we investigated the serum metabolomic profile of a well-characterized cohort of elderly subjects encompassing the whole fit-to-frail continuum. Enrichment analyses revealed a complex dysregulation of amino acids and energy metabolism in both pre-frail and frail participants. Remarkably, upregulated betaine levels emerged as a specific biochemical signature of pre-frailty, holding promise for the development of novel targeted interventions.
Iron Metabolism-Related Gene Expression and Immune Microenvironment in Lumbar Disc Herniation: Insights from Bioinformatics Analysis
Authors: Ouyang Shuai , Wu Yu , Lao Aotian , Liu Zerui , Zou Jian , Lu Guoliang
Published: December 2024

Background
We investigated the involvement of iron metabolism-related genes (iron metabolism RGs) in lumbar disc herniation (LDH) to develop early diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.
Methods
Bioinformatics approaches were employed to identify differentially expressed genes associated with iron metabolism, in the context of LDH, using datasets from the gene expression omnibus database and analyzed using the “limma” R package. Functional enrichment analyses, including gene ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway analyses, were performed to determine the biological functions and pathways involved. A diagnostic model was developed to enhance early detection and prognosis of patients with LDH. Using the single-sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis method to examine immune cell infiltration patterns, interaction networks involving mRNA transcription factors and mRNA miRNAs were constructed and visualized using Cytoscape.
Results
Our enrichment analysis identified key biological processes and pathways associated with 25 differentially expressed iron metabolism RGs, highlighting their roles in “iron ion homeostasis” and oxidative stress responses. The constructed diagnostic model demonstrated excellent discriminatory power in distinguishing patients with LDH from healthy controls. Immune cell infiltration analysis revealed significant associations between immune microenvironment characteristics and disease progression.
Conclusions
These findings suggest potential therapeutic strategies targeting the immune microenvironment and provide insights into innovative treatments for LDH.
The metabolic score for insulin resistance as a Predictor of Obstructive Sleep Apnea: The Mediating Effects of Liver Fat and Steatosis
Authors: Song Shangyi , Li Xuhao , Liu Yecun , Wang Xingxin , Zhang Wenhui , Yang Jiguo , Liu Yuanxiang
Published: December 2024

Background
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is associated with metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and liver fat accumulation. However, the specific mediating role of liver-related metabolic indicators in this association has not been fully studied. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between Metabolic Score for Insulin Resistance (METS-IR) and OSA, focusing on the mediating effects of liver fat percentage (PLF) and hepatic steatosis index (HSI). Understanding these mechanisms may provide insights into targeted interventions for OSA.
Methods
A total of 12,655 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this analysis. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was assessed using the NHANES questionnaire. Weighted multivariate logistic regression was employed to assess the relationship between METS-IR and OSA, with a mediation model constructed to explore the mediating roles of key liver and metabolic markers, including PLF, HSI, SII, and OBS.
Results
Among 12,655 subjects, 31.04% had OSA. METS-IR was closely related to the increased risk of OSA, and the highest quartile group of METS-IR had a significantly increased risk of OSA ( OR = 2.35, 95% CI : 1.72–3.21 ). Mediating effect analysis showed that PLF and HSI mediated 11.22% and 22.78% of the effects, respectively, while systemic immunity-inflammation index (SII) and oxidative balance score (OBS) had no significant mediating effect.
Conclusions
METS-IR is an important predictor of OSA risk, primarily mediated by hepatic lipid accumulation. Addressing insulin resistance and hepatic metabolic health is crucial for the effective management of OSA and provides valuable guidance for clinical risk assessment in susceptible populations.
EchoApex: A General-Purpose Vision Foundation Model for Echocardiography
Authors: Zhang Yue , Amadou Abdoul , Piat Sebastien , Klein Paul , Schmuecking Ingo , Passerini Tiziano , Sharma Puneet
Published: December 2024

Quantitative evaluation of echocardiography is essential for precise assessment of cardiac condition and guiding treatment decisions. The diverse nature of echo images, including variations in probe types, manufacturers, and pathologies, poses challenges for developing artificial intelligent models that can generalize across different clinical practice. Here, we introduce EchoApex, a general-purpose vision foundation model designed for comprehensive echocardiography analysis. Pretrained on over 20 million images from 11 clinical centers, EchoApex utilizes self-supervised learning and task-specific decoders for diverse applications in echocardiography. It performs sequence view classification, interactive structure segmentation, left ventricle measurement, and ejection fraction estimation. In benchmark evaluations, EchoApex outperforms task-specific models, achieving a mean BACC of 0.976 in classification of 18 common views, DICE of 0.93 in chamber segmentation, MAE of 3.9mm in left ventricle linear measurement and a zero-shot performance improvement over specialist models in all evaluated datasets. For ejection fraction estimation, EchoApex achieves an MAE of 5.6% and an AUC of 0.927 for cardiomyopathy detection. Despite using less than 4% of trainable parameters with frozen encoders, EchoApex with adapter demonstrates strong performance with minimal degradation compared to fully finetuned models. This work establishes EchoApex as a scalable, general-purpose model for echocardiography, enabling efficient adaptation across various clinical tasks.
Estimation of biogas production by LandGEM model and energy recovery potential from municipal solid waste Landfill of Kermanshah, Iran
Authors: Jafari Ali , Nourozi Nasim , Nayeri Danial
Published: December 2024

Nowadays, landfill gases (LFGs) such as methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2) and nonmethane organic compounds (NMOCs) have been considered as the main source of greenhouse gases made by human. Herein, due to the importance, LFGs emission and the energy generation potential of an uncontrolled landfill site, located in Kermanshah, was estimated using LandGEM (3.02) from 2024-2054. In this work electric power generation capacity was estimated by calculating annual production of electric energy (kWh/year) generated for methane emissions from the beginning of landfilling to the end of designed period (30 years). The results indicated that CH4, CO2, and NMOCs emitted from the landfill will peak in 2055 with values of 2.2E+04, 6.0E+04 and 9.4E+02 Mg/year, respectively. The waste production of 285.4 million kg/day is able to provide about 8.8E+07 kWh energy, which will be 0.36% of energy consumption in Kermanshah city in 2054. The results demonstrate a significant energy potential and are very promising. Further, it was estimated that maximum total electricity production of 8.9E+07 kWh will be attained in 2055.
Changes in cerebral blood flow during parabolic flight
Authors: Wollseiffen Petra , Schneider Stefan , Mandic Mirco , Badalì Constance
Published: December 2024

A number of studies have well described central cardiovascular changes caused by changing gravity levels as they occur e.g. during parabolic flight. However limited data exists describing the effect of microgravity on the cerebrovascular system and brain perfusion, which might heavily affect the intracranial pressure (ICP). In this study, performed on board the Airbus A310 ZeroG, cerebral blood flow velocity, diameter and cerebral blood volume were continuously monitored in the arteria carotis communis (ACC) for five consecutive parabolas by cardiac-gated B mode ultrasonography using a 7–12MHz linear transducer. Simultaneously heart rate (HR) was monitored. Data was assessed in the 1G condition pre parabola and at the start and end of each 1.8G and 0G phase. A lab-based study was administered where participants repeatedly changed between a seated and six-degree head down tilt (HDT) position for 20 seconds. During parabolic flight, HR increased during the two hypergravity phases and decreased back to 1G baseline in the weightlessness phase of the parabola. ACC diameter, blood flow velocity and flow volume showed a clear decrease in the first 1.8 hypergravity phase but returned to 1G baseline in the microgravity phase. Different results were obtained by changing from a seated to a 6°HDT position, resulting in an increase in ACC diameter, flow velocity and flow volume. Results suggest that the previously described changes within the middle cerebral artery (MCA) are rather caused by changes on the venous side but not an increased inflow during – at least – short term phases of microgravity.
Negative Pressure Suction in ERCP Brush Cytology: Assessing its Impact on Biliary Stricture Diagnostics
Authors: Ying， Huajie , Ying Xiaodan , Lu Fangyan , huang Feiyan
Published: December 2024

Objective: To evaluate the effectiveness of negative pressure suction in improving the diagnostic yield of brush cytology for biliary strictures.
Methods: We conducted a prospective study on 48 patients undergoing ERCP. Participants were divided into two groups: those undergoing standard brush cytology (CP group) and those with additional negative pressure suction (NP group). The diagnostic yield of brush cytology and liquid-based cytology were compared, with an emphasis on assessing the independent predictive value of negative pressure and CA125.
Results: The application of negative pressure significantly improved the positive diagnosis rate of liquid-based cytology to 75%, compared to standard brush cytology. No significant correlations were found with the length of the biliary stricture. Multivariate analysis revealed negative pressure (OR: 5.4; 95% CI: 1.18–29; p = 0.034) and CA125 (OR: 4.80; 95% CI: 1.07–25.27; p = 0.047) as independent predictors. The predictive model achieved an AUC of 0.823, suggesting a substantial enhancement in diagnostic accuracy.
Conclusions: Negative pressure suction in brush cytology presents as a superior technique for the diagnosis of biliary strictures, offering a safer and more efficacious alternative to invasive biopsy methods.
F3 expression drives sensitivity to the antibody-drug conjugate tisotumab vedotin in glioblastoma
Authors: Sears Thomas K. , Wang Wenxia , Drumm Michael , Unruh Dusten , McCord Matthew , Horbinski Craig
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The gene F3, encoding Tissue Factor (TF), is expressed in many cancers and contributes to their malignancy. Among adult-type diffuse gliomas, IDH wild-type (IDHwt) glioblastomas (GBM) express more TF than IDH mutant (IDHmut) gliomas. Tisotumab vedotin (TisVed), an anti-TF antibody conjugated to monomethyl auristatin E, is a therapeutic designed to target cells expressing TF. We therefore sought to determine the therapeutic potential of TisVed in IDHwt vs. IDHmut gliomas.
Methods
We treated IDHwt and IDHmut patient-derived glioma cells with control IgG, unconjugated tisotumab (Tis), or TisVed in vitro, followed by cell viability assays and assessment of TF signaling. We tested Tis and TisVed in mice intracranially engrafted with patient-derived IDHwt and IDHmut gliomas and mice flank-engrafted with IDHwt GBM.
Results
TisVed was more active against cultured IDHwt GBM cells than IDHmut glioma cells. This activity was increased by daily washout of soluble TF secreted by IDHwt GBM cells. Unconjugated Tis had less effect than TisVed, and TF signaling was minimally inhibited. TisVed extended the survival of mice intracranially engrafted with IDHwt GBM (P = 0.006), but not mice with IDHmut glioma (P = 0.88). TisVed also reduced the growth of IDHwt GBM flank xenografts. Tis had no antitumor effect in either setting. Both TisVed and Tis caused hemorrhage in flank tumors.
Conclusions
TisVed targets high TF-expressing IDHwt GBM, but not low TF-expressing IDHmut glioma. This is predominately through the vedotin conjugate rather than inhibition of TF signaling. Though the effect size is modest, TisVed may therefore be a new strategy against IDHwt GBM. Additionally, complications related to hemostasis may be an issue.
Factors Influencing Morbidity, Mortality, and Survival in Lymphoma Patients: A Population-Based Study from Xiamen, China
Authors: Luo Wenting , Zhang Xiangdong , Li Xingyu , Chi Jiahuang , Luo Yanxin , Zhuang Xingou , Lin Yilan
Published: December 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to analyze the factors influencing morbidity, mortality and survival outcomes in patients diagnosed with lymphoma. Methods Data were collected from all newly diagnosed lymphoma cases in Xiamen City between 2011 and 2020. The data were evaluated to assess morbidity and mortality rates, with statistical analyses conducted using SAS 9.4 software. Results The results of this study indicated that the incidence rate of lymphoma is higher in males than in females and higher in urban areas than in rural ones (ASIR 6.44 per 100 000 versus 4.34 per 100 000), the lymphoma mortality rate is higher in males than in females (ASMR 3.57 per 100 000 versus 2.10 per 100 000) and greater in urban areas compared to rural areas(ASIR 3.14 per 100 000 versus 2.10 per 100 000). Six variables (age, suburb, marital status, education, lymphoma type, and diagnosis year) significantly impacted prognosis, as shown by the multivariate Cox analysis. Conclusion Developing lymphoma prevention and control programs for people of different genders, ages, living environments, and literacy levels can effectively reduce lymphoma morbidity and mortality and improve survival.
Demographics, Prognostic Factors and Survival Outcomes in Hepatic Angiosarcoma: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Robinson Jaylyn , Iqbal Asif , Yasinzai Abdul Qahar Khan , Sohail Amir Humza , Jain Hritvik ,   Noorana Fdhil2 Fadhil, Khan Marjan , Khan Israr , Karki Nabin Raj , Ullah Asad
Published: December 2024

Background
Hepatic angiosarcoma (HA) is a rare malignant vascular neoplasm. Currently, there are no standardized protocols for treating HA. This study aims to comprehensively understand clinicopathologic analysis, prognostic factors, treatment outcomes, and genetic mutations for personalized treatment associated with HA.
Methods
The data retrieved from the SEER database was reviewed for hepatic angiosarcoma cases between 2000–2021.
Results
A total of 389 patients with hepatic angiosarcoma were identified with a mean age of 63.9 years (SD ± 16). Most patients were male (64%), and per US census data, non-Hispanic Asians or Pacific Islanders were the most common race (17%). In known cases of tumor stage (61%), the most common tumor stage was distant (22%), and most were grade III (18%) tumors. Overall, the 3-year survival rate was 6.7% with a 95% confidence interval (95% CI, 0.044-0.100), disease-specific survival at a 1-year survival rate was 4.43% (95% CI, 0.023–0.083) and no patients survived by 3 years. The best overall survival rate was the 1-year rate for surgical resection, 18.20% (95% CI: (0.075–0.441). Chemotherapy had a 1-year survival rate of 11% (95% CI, 0.057–0.211), and radiation therapy had no survival significance (p = 0.2). Multivariate analysis shows age above 70 years (H.R. 1.67 (95% CI, 1.181–2.381), p < 0.05), no surgical intervention (H.R. 2.29 (95% CI, 1.585–3.336) p < 0.001), and distant stage (H.R. 2.54 (95% CI, 1.696–3.805) p < 0.001) are negative prognostic factors, whereas female sex (H.R. 0.68 (95% CI, 0.536–0.875) p < 0.05) is a positive prognostic factor.
Conclusion
Increasing age (> 70 years), male sex, and distant stage were found to be strong predictors of poor survival outcomes. Patients had better outcomes when surgical resection and chemotherapy were included in their treatment. These results can provide continued evidence in the future management of patients with hepatic angiosarcoma.
Integrated analysis to find MicroRNAs and Genes Associated with Metastasis and Cisplatin and 5-Fluorouracil Resistance Gastric Cancer
Authors: Iranmehr Zahra , Yasavoli-Sharahi Hamed , Ghaemi Fatemeh , Miri Seyed Rouhollah , ebrahimi marzieh
Published: December 2024

Background
Metastasis and drug resistance are the leading causes of cancer-related mortality worldwide. Studies suggest that epigenetic factors play a crucial role in these common complications.
Objective
This study aimed to identify key regulators of drug resistance and metastasis in gastric cancer by utilizing a combined in silico and in vitro approach. The goal was to uncover genes and microRNAs that could serve as determining factors and patterns in chemoresistance to common chemotherapy drugs and metastasis.
Materials and Method
The expression profile of genes that differed between drug resistance and sensitive gastric cancer patients was obtained from the GEO database. Then protein-protein interactions were provided using Cytoscape software. The selected genes were assessed for differences in gastric cancer and normal tissues using the Gepia website. Then, the MiRWalk database searched to find regulating microRNAs. MKN-45 cells were treated with Cisplatin (CCDP) and 5-Fluorouracil (5-FU) two times. Finally, the evaluation of selected genes and micro-RNAs in non-metastatic and metastatic tissues and 5-FU/CCDP resistance MKN-45.
Results
Data revealed 28 genes differentially expressed between drug-resistant and drug-sensitive gastric cancer, exhibiting differences in both normal and tumor tissues. Protein interaction analysis highlighted CXCL8, MMP9, CCL5, and STAT1; as crucial genes influencing both metastasis and drug resistance in gastric cancer patients. Moreover, miR-17-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-124-3p, miR-128, and miR-145-3p were introduced here which play important roles in regulating both processes. The expression levels of CXCL8, STAT1, miR-17-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-124-3p increased, and miR-145-3p decreased significantly in metastatic tissues and 5-FU/CCDP resistant MKN45 than non-metastatic and sensitive ones.
Conclusion
Up-regulation of miR-17-5p, miR-24-3p, miR-124-3p, CXCL8, CCL5, MMP9, and STAT1 is implicated in metastasis and drug resistance to both cisplatin and 5-FU. Also, down-regulation of miR-145-3p induces metastasis and drug resistance possibly via STAT1 and MMP9.
Intensification of extreme cold events in East Asia in response to global mean sea-level rise
Authors: Zhang Zhongshi , dong caoyi , Keenlyside Noel , Sobolowski Stefan , Otterå Odd Helge , Bonaduce Antonio , Xie Jiping , Raj Roshin , Liu Yong , Liu Bo , Wu Mingna
Published: December 2024

Today, the global mean sea level(GMSL) stands ~20cm higher than at the beginning of the last century, and the rate of sea-level rise has been accelerating in recent decades. Even a slight, globally uniform sea-level rise can notably impact atmospheric and oceanic circulations at climatic and potentially synoptic scales. However, the extent to which sea-level rise will influence extreme weather remains largely unknown. Here, we specifically focused on East Asia and conducted experiments to investigate the effects of GMSL rise. Our experiments demonstrate that GMSL rise, even in tens of centimeters, promotes stronger and more frequent extreme cold events. This effect is attributed to weakened mid-latitude westerly winds and increased occurrence of blocking events over Eurasia. Our study presents the first evidence that GMSL rise will modify synoptic systems and intensify extreme events. Both coastal and inland countries are exposed to threats arising from GMSL rise.
FinTechFake: A Linguistic-Enabled Artificial Intelligence Approach for Detecting Fake News in Finance
Authors: Meraj Mohd , Kamal Ahmad
Published: December 2024

The spread of misleading information on social media and internet forums has posed a serious danger to organizations and enterprises. This paper proposes an ensemble learning-based artificial intelligence approach called FinTechFake for financial fake news detection. Due to the public unavailability of the financial fake news dataset, we created a financial fake news dataset from the existing benchmark fake news dataset using topic modeling approaches. Substantial feature engineering has been investigated to extract the best-suited linguistic aspects that include sentence cohesion, stance, sentiment, and other grammatical features. Furthermore, linguistic features are combined with word embedding-based characteristics to apply an ensemble learning approach for the automatic detection of financial fake news from large text corpora. In terms of classification accuracy, both XGBoost and LGBM produce good results with 96.8% accuracy. When compared with the existing state-of-the-art, FinTechFake, outperformed others in terms of F1 score by 2.6%.
Association between adverse childhood experiences and post-COVID-19 conditions: Evidence from 27 countries
Authors: Zong Xu
Published: December 2024

The association of Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) with post-COVID-19 conditions among older adults remains unclear. The study used cross-national samples of 27 countries to examine the association between ACEs and post-COVID-19 conditions among European and Israeli older adults. Our results suggest that moderate ACE exposure (2 ACEs) may be associated with lower odds of post-COVID-19 conditions in later life. Among specific ACEs, neglect by parents was associated with lower odds of post-COVID-19 conditions.