bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the Impact of AI Tools on Language Proficiency and Intercultural Communication in Second Language Education
Authors: Fountoulakis Michail St.
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the impact of AI-driven tools, including Duolingo, Rosetta Stone, and ChatGPT, on enhancing language proficiency and intercultural communication in educational settings. Through a mixed-methods approach involving 200 participants, significant improvements in language skills and cultural understanding were observed, with students responding more positively to these tools than educators. The results underscore the effectiveness of AI in delivering personalized learning experiences and facilitating real-world conversational practice. However, the study also highlights the necessity of integrating AI tools thoughtfully into curricula, accompanied by continuous teacher training. Ethical considerations, such as data privacy, AI bias, and equitable access, are discussed, with recommendations to ensure these technologies promote inclusive and equitable educational practices. The paper concludes with a call for future research to explore the long-term impacts of AI on language learning and intercultural competence.
The Effects of Different Treatment Methods on Blood Hematological Parameters İn COVID 19: A Retrospective Look at Patients in Pandemic İntensive Care Unit During The First Wave of the Pandemic
Authors:   University of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey, ABUT Yesim Cokay , Gursoy Kubra Bolat ,   Saray Hospital, Kirklareli, Turkey, ADAM Fusun ,   University of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey,   Education and Training Hospital, Anesthesiology and Reanimation Department, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey, SARI Didem ,   University of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey,   Education and Training Hospital, Anesthesiology and Reanimation Department, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey, KISA Ece ,   University of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Istanbul, Turkey,   Education and Training Hospital, Anesthesiology and Reanimation Department, Fatih, Istanbul, Turkey
Published: October 2024

Introduction: In this study, we compared the pre- and post-treatment values of basic hematological parameters in severe COVID 19 patients, whose were received favipiravir, tocilizumab, methylprednisolone and convalescent plasma therapy. Methods: Hematological parameters such as eosinophyl, neutrophil, lymphocyte, platelet count and, neutrophil / lymphocyte, platelet/ lymphocyte ratio were investigated pre and post treatment of favipiravir, tocilizumab convalescent plasma and methylprednisolone in severe COVID 19 patients in ICU. Results: Lymphocyt values were increased after convelescent plasma theraphy and i.v. methyl prednisolon group. Eosinophil count improvement was only in the favipiravir group . We found that favipiravir, convalescent plasma andmethyl prednisolon treatment, were statistically significant increased both NLR and PLR. Conclusion : Hematologic parameters and their contribution of the respond of the treatment and clinical improvement should be taken into account.
Monetary entropy in the conditions of economic globalization
Authors:   SE “Institute for Economics and Forecasting of National Academy of Sciences of Ukraine”, Sharov Oleksandr
Published: October 2024

Introduction. Changes occurring in the nature of money in the context of globalization have long been of interest to economists. Instead, the events of recent years have shown that such changes can also be caused by profound transformations that are natural ones and subject to general physical laws. Problem Statement. Establishing the dependence of the further development of money as an economic category on the action of the second law of thermodynamics. The purpose is the analysis of scientific ideas at the junction of economics and physics (ecophysics) and their spread to the monetary sphere ,in particular considering the manifestation of monetary entropy in the process of the international monetary system. Methods. General scientific and special methods are used: analysis, synthesis, description, comparison, theoretical generalization and abstract-logical analyses. Results. This publication introduces the concept of monetary entropy as a state of chaoticization of the essence of money (entropy of money) and the monetary system as a whole. The development of monetary entropy is considered as the result of cyclical development according to the Hegelian model “thesis-antithesis-synthesis”, which allows to avoid complete chaosization of the monetary sphere due to its transition to a new level of the spiral of development. The current state of the development of money as an economic category and the international monetary system as a whole, caused by the impact of the globalization process on them, proves that they are at the stage of another transition from entropy to negentropy, which can lead to the emergence of Global Money. Conclusions. Turning to the issue of predicting the future of money, it should be noted that there is an opinion that soon money will simply become a relic of the past and disappear altogether, leaving the probable technological singularity as one of its consequences, the very liquidation (more precisely, the senselessness of existence ) of money as an economic category. One of the possibilities of the technological singularity is the emergence of a post-scarcity society in which there will be a surplus of resources and the needs of every member of society will be fully satisfied (a variant of capitalist communism, when even an unconditional basic income will appear to be an unacceptable minimum for satisfying needs, because the principle from each according to his abilities to each according to his needs will be implemented. However, the change will not happen overnight, so there will most likely be a transition period during which humanity will still use money and the concept of money will evolve rather than disappear completely.
Deep eutectic solvent (DES) pretreatment and lignin regeneration for the development of a bamboo leaf-based bioplastic
Authors: Liu Chao , Liu Hongfei , Wang Huijie , Yu Zhaochuan , Yan Ming , Zhou Xuelian , Li Renai
Published: October 2024

The excessive utilization of petroleum-based plastic products has led to a pervasive environmental and human health threat. In response, the adoption of bioplastics derived from biomass has emerged as the foremost alternative to conventional plastics, owing to their inherent biodegradability and sustainability. The present study demonstrates the preparation of a biodegradable and cost-effective lignocellulosic bioplastic by utilizing dissolving bamboo leaf powder with deep eutectic solvents (DES) and regenerating lignin in situ. The DES was synthesized through a one-step heating and stirring method using choline chloride (ChCl) and anhydrous oxalic acid. The crystallinity of the bioplastics is enhanced by DES pretreatment, thereby improving the internal structural order of the material. Moreover, lignin regeneration reduces the pore size within the bioplastics and contributes to a more compact internal structure. The prepared lignocellulosic bioplastics exhibit remarkable mechanical strength, with a tensile strength of 113 MPa. Additionally, they demonstrate good water stability, as evidenced by a contact angle of 55.52°. Moreover, these bioplastics possess an exceptional biodegradability with a degradation rate exceeding 98% after 60 days. This study presents an innovative approach for the high-value utilization of bamboo leaf resources.
The transcription elongation factors Spt4 and Spt5 control neural progenitor proliferation and are implicated in neuronal remodeling during Drosophila mushroom body development
Authors: Barthel Lea , Pettemeridi Stefani , Nebras Ali , Schnaidt Hayley , Fahland Karoline , Vormwald Lea , Raabe Thomas
Published: October 2024

Spt4 and Spt5 form the DRB sensitivity inducing factor (DSIF) complex that regulates transcription elongation at multiple steps including promotor-proximal pausing, processivity and termination. Although this implicated a general role in transcription, several studies pointed to smaller sets of target genes and indicated a more specific requirement in certain cellular contexts. To unravel common or distinct functions of Spt4 and Spt5 in vivo, we generated knock-out alleles for both genes in Drosophila melanogaster. Using the development of the mushroom bodies as a model, we provided evidence for two common functions of Spt4 and Spt5 during mushroom body development, namely control of cell proliferation of neural progenitor cells and remodeling of axonal projections of certain mushroom body neurons. This latter function is not due to a general requirement of Spt4 and Spt5 for axon pathfinding of mushroom body neurons, but due to distinct effects on the expression of genes controlling remodeling.
Vitamin E supplementation prevents obesogenic diet-induced developmental abnormalities in SR-B1 deficient embryos
Authors: Quiroz Alonso , Belledonne Gabriela , Saavedra Fujiko , González Javier , Busso Dolores
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Genetic and environmental factors influence the risk of neural tube defects (NTD), congenital malformations characterized by abnormal brain and spine formation. Mouse embryos deficient in Scavenger Receptor Class B Type 1 (SR-B1), which is involved in the bidirectional transfer of lipids between lipoproteins and cells, exhibit a high prevalence of exencephaly, preventable by maternal vitamin E supplementation. SR-B1 knock-out (KO) embryos are severely deficient in vitamin E and show elevated reactive oxygen species levels during neurulation.

Methods

We fed SR-B1 heterozygous female mice a high-fat/high-sugar (HFHS) diet and evaluated the vitamin E and oxidative status in dams and embryos from heterozygous intercrosses. We also determined the incidence of NTD.

Results and discussion

HFHS-fed SR-B1 HET females exhibited altered glucose metabolism and excess circulating lipids, along with a higher incidence of embryos with developmental delay and NTD. Vitamin E supplementation partially mitigated HFHS-induced maternal metabolic abnormalities and completely prevented embryonic malformations, likely through indirect mechanisms involving the reduction of oxidative stress and improved lipid handling by the parietal yolk sac.
How to simulate dissociative chemisorption of methane on metal surfaces
Authors: Gerrits Nick
Published: October 2024

The dissociation of methane is not only an important reaction step in catalytic processes, but also of fundamental interest. Dynamical effects during the dissociative chemisorption of methane on metal surfaces cause significant differences in computed reaction rates, compared to what is predicted by typical transition state theory (TST) models. It is clear that for a good understanding of the catalytic activation of methane dynamical simulations are required. In this paper, a general blueprint is provided for performing dynamical simulations of the dissociative chemisorption of methane on metal surfaces, by employing either the quasi-classical trajectory or ring polymer molecular dynamics approach. If the computational setup is constructed with great care–since results can be affected considerably by the setup – chemically accurate predictions are achievable. Although this paper concerns methane dissociation, the provided blueprint is, so far, applicable to the dissociative chemisorption of most molecules.
Diagnostic value of effusion adenosine deaminase, γ-interferon release assay and effusion lactatedehy drogenase/effusion adenosine deaminase for tuberculous pleural effusion in patients aged 60 years and above
Authors: Guo Fei , Huimin Chen , Xia Wei , Xu Yilin , Jin Weijiang , Liu Fang
Published: October 2024

Background

China is experiencing rapid growth in its population of older adults, which may lead to increased susceptibility to tuberculous pleural effusion (TPE) due to age-related changes in the immune system. This study aimed to investigate the diagnostic potential of multiple biomarkers in individuals aged 60 years and above with pleural effusion.

Methods

A total of 519 adult patients from Ningbo First Hospital were included in the study, with 7 biomarkers and their ratios in serum and pleural effusion analyzed using logistic regression analysis. Effusion Adenosine Deaminase(ADA), γ-Interferon Release Assay(IGRA), and Effusion lactatedehy drogenase(LDH)/Effusion ADA were identified as valuable parameters for differentiating TPE from non-TPE, particularly in individuals aged 60 years and older.

Results

Effusion ADA, IGRA, and Effusion LDH/Effusion ADA were identified as valuable parameters for the differential diagnosis of TPE from non-TPE, showing good diagnostic performance in individuals aged 60 years and older. The combined diagnosis of these three indexes achieved the highest diagnostic accuracy for TPE in this age group, with an AUC of 0.925, sensitivity of 85.23%, and specificity of 89.57%.

Conclusions

Overall, the study highlights the importance of using multiple indicators for a combined diagnosis to improve diagnostic efficacy in detecting tuberculous pleurisy in older individuals as for young patients.
Host-dependent C-to-U RNA editing in SARS-CoV-2 creates novel viral genes with optimized expressibility
Authors: Zhang Pirun , Zhang Wenli , Li Jiahuan , Liu Huiying , Yu Yantong , Yang Xiaoping , Jiang Wenqing
Published: October 2024

Rampant C-to-U RNA editing drives the mutation and evolution of SARS-CoV-2. While much attention has been paid to missense mutations, the C-to-U events leading to AUG and thus creating novel ORFs were uninvestigated. By utilizing the public time-course mutation data from the worldwide SARS-CoV-2 population, we systematically identified the “AUG-gain mutations” caused by C-to-U RNA editing. Synonymous mutations were of special focus. A total of 58 synonymous C-to-U sites are able to create out-of-frame AUG in coding sequence (CDS). These 58 synonymous sites showed significantly higher allele frequency (AF) and increasing rate (dAF/dt) than other C-to-U synonymous sites in the SARS-CoV-2 population, suggesting that these 58 AUG-gain events conferred additional benefits to the virus and are subjected to positive selection. The 58 predicted new ORFs created by AUG-gain events showed the following advantages compared to random expectation: they have longer lengths, higher codon adaptation index (CAI), higher Kozak scores, and higher tRNA adaptation index (tAI). The 58 putatively novel ORFs have high expressibility and are very likely to be functional, providing an explanation for the positive selection on the 58 AUG-gain mutations. Our study proposed a possible mechanism of the emergence of de novo genes in SARS-CoV-2. This idea should be helpful in studying the mutation and evolution of SARS-CoV-2.
Early diaphragm dysfunction assessed by ultrasonography after cardiac surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Huai Hongbo , Ge Min , Zhao Zhigang , Xiong Ping , Hong Wenjun , Jiang Zhongli , Wang Jianming
Published: October 2024

Objective

Approximately 10%–70% of patients may develop diaphragmatic dysfunction after cardiac surgery, which may lead to delayed weaning from mechanical ventilation, increased ICU stays, postoperative hospitalization stays, and respiratory complications. However, its impact on prognosis and risk factors remain controversy. Therefore, we conducted a retrospective cohort study in which we evaluated diaphragmatic dysfunction in patients who underwent cardiac surgery via bedside diaphragm ultrasound to investigate its prognosis and possible risk factors.

Methods

Data from the electronic medical records system included case records and ultrasound images of the diaphragm for 177 consecutive patients admitted to the ICU following cardiac thoracotomy surgeries performed between June and September 2020. Diaphragmatic dysfunction was defined as a diaphragmatic excursion of less than 9 mm in women and less than 10 mm in men at rest, with an average thickening fraction of less than 20%. SPSS 25.0 software was used to analyse the relationships between patients' general information, intraoperative and postoperative factors and diaphragmatic dysfunction, as well as the impact on patients' hospitalization days, mechanical ventilation time and respiratory system complications.

Results

The incidence of early postoperative diaphragmatic dysfunction after cardiac surgery was 40.7%. Patients with diaphragmatic insufficiency were more likely to sequentially use noninvasive ventilation within 24 h after weaning off mechanical ventilation (3.8% vs. 12.5%, P = 0.029) and to require more oxygen support (23.8% vs. 40.3%, P = 0.019). Although there was no significant difference, the diaphragmatic dysfunction group tended to have longer ICU stays and postoperative hospital stays than did the normal diaphragmatic function group (P = 0.119, P = 0.073). Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses both revealed that chest tube drainage placed during surgery accompanied by bloody drainage fluid was an independent risk factor for diaphragmatic dysfunction (univariate analysis: 95% CI: 1.126–4.137, P = 0.021; multivariate analysis: 95% CI: 1.036–3.897, P = 0.039).

Conclusion

Eearly diaphragmatic dysfunction after cardiac surgery increased the proportion of patients who underwent sequential noninvasive ventilation after weaning from mechanical ventilation and who required more oxygen. Chest tube drainage placed during surgery accompanied by bloody drainage fluid was an independent risk factor for diaphragmatic dysfunction, providing evidence-based guidance for respiratory rehabilitation after cardiac surgery.
Cultivating the capacity for active balancing during adolescence: pathways to a coherent self
Authors: Juneja Abhishek , Hansen David M. , Lemon Michael P.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In this paper we propose that one of the core developmental aims of adolescence is to cultivate a capacity for active balancing as the primary process for creating a coherent, agentic self capable of contributing to the functioning and purposes of the communities which adolescents inhabit, including society as a broader community. While there many valuable initiatives and programs to promote positive development, learning, and wellbeing, these efforts typically take a siloed approach focusing on one dimension of development (e.g., social-emotional learning), leaving adolescents to create coherence from these disconnected approaches. As adolescence face an increasingly uncertain future (e.g., career instability), serious threats to human survival (e.g., environmental degradation), social divides (e.g., political and ideological polarization), etc., a siloed approach to adolescent development is not simply outmoded but it reinforces a fragmented self.

Conceptual model and background

In this paper we argue that a siloed approach to adolescent development and learning may contribute to a fragmented sense of self and agency, which can be associated with increased vulnerability to mental health challenges. We first link the proposed developmental aim of adolescence to neuroscience findings that identify three brain changes during adolescence that lay the groundwork for cultivating active balancing and provide an ontogenetic neurological push for adolescents to learn and manage how to engage their worlds. Leveraging this ontogenetic push, we propose adolescents can cultivate their capacity for active balancing within the cultural communities of practice they inhabit. These communities provide a ready and powerful fusion of action, affect, and thought into coherent and relevant understandings of the why, how, and utility of practices in a community, or what we label orientations. Active balancing is the process of actively seeking to establish or reestablish one's intended balance among these orientations.

Conclusions and implications

Building the capacity for active balancing, we suggest, engenders greater resilience and adaptability to a range of situations, a tolerance for and ability to resolve tensions, and an ability to transcend vast differences, including cultural and ideological. Implications for both the adolescent and society are discussed.
Seismicity and fractal analysis in Aswan region, southern Egypt
Authors: Ali Sherif M. , Abdelrahman kamal
Published: October 2024

Seismic activity in Aswan is influenced by the complex interactions of tectonic plates, the accumulation of stress, and the presence of geological fault systems. It revealed that epicenters are well distributed along four fault segments in a conjugate pattern, indicating a prominent E-W compressional stress. This research aims to explore the characteristics of seismicity and seismotectonics, with a focus on assessing their implications for risk reduction and disaster management in this densely populated region. A data review from the Egyptian National Seismological Network (ENSN) identified 464 earthquakes occurred between 2000 and 2021, with local magnitudes ranging from 0.3 to 4.4, and depths up to 25 km. The calculated Gutenberg-Richter b-value is approximately 0.87 ± 0.05, indicating a gradual stress accumulation. The current analysis shows a more consistent level of moderate seismic activity, unlike previous studies in Aswan region that reported a wide range of b-values from 0.554 to 1.07. This suggests that while earlier research captured a wider range of seismic behaviors, recent data indicates a stabilization in earthquake frequency and intensity. Additionally, the fractal dimension (Dc) calculated at 1.57 ± 0.04 shows an intermediate level of complexity and reflecting a clustering pattern of earthquakes. The variations in the b-value with different magnitudes and depths signify the involvement of active smaller faults, responsible for earthquakes up to magnitude 2.2, which then transition to fractured zones inducing earthquakes up to magnitude 2.5. This transition is followed by a decline in seismic activity, indicating regions that are potentially more likely to experience larger earthquakes. Moreover, stress disparities at various depths contribute to smaller earthquakes within the 5–10 km depth range. Return period analysis suggests that the earthquakes of magnitude 3.7 or higher are expected to occur approximately once every decade in Aswan. These findings are of utmost importance for earthquake risk reduction, hazard assessment, and the sustainable development of Aswan area.
Evaluation of students’ digital literacy through an immersive university-high school collaboration
Authors: Bruckhaus Alexander A. , Bennett Alexis , Brawer-Cohen Maya , Sinclair Michael , Ramirez-De La Cruz Glendy , Ragusa Gisele , Duncan Dominique
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Recent efforts including the U.S. Department of Education’s Raise the Bar: STEM Excellence for All Students, designed to strengthen Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) education, typify the development of effective outreach programs implemented in high school settings to increase STEM achievement and literacy and to promote future careers in STEM. Specifically, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are topics of great importance and interest but are often reserved for higher-level education. Introductions of complex subjects in high school promotes student efficacy, enthusiasm, and skill-development for STEM careers. Establishing strong partnerships between universities and high schools is mutually beneficial for the professional development of students, teachers, and professors. In this paper, we detail immersive outreach efforts and their effectiveness in a high school setting.

Methods

From Spring 2021 to Spring 2024, we conducted eight data-science and analysis-coding style workshops along with two data science units, with 302 students participating in the data science workshops and 82 students in the data science units. All students who participated in the data science lessons completed a comprehensive final project. Surveys measuring knowledge and appeal to data science and coding were conducted both retrospectively and prospectively, before and after each workshop and the data science units. A 1 year follow up survey was conducted for students in the 2023 data science lessons (n = 23).

Results

Overall, average student interest significantly increased from 2.72 ± 1.08/5.0 (n = 205) to 3.15 ± 1.18/5.0 (n = 181, p = 0.001) during the data science workshops, while 70% of students expressed desire to continue with coding. Interest modestly increased in the data science lessons from 3.15 ± 0.65/4.0 to 3.17 ± 0.77/4.0 (n = 82, p = 0.8571), while knowledge significantly increased from 64.16% to 88.5% (% correct out of six questions) in the 2023 data science lessons and from 52.62% to 60.79% (% correct out of 29 questions) in the 2024 data science lessons.

Discussion

Increasing STEM exposure through outreach programs and a modified curriculum can positively alter students’ career trajectory and prepare them for the evolving technologically advanced world and the careers within it.
The role of socio-emotional security on school engagement and academic achievement: systematic literature review
Authors: Dias Pedro , Veríssimo Lurdes , Carneiro Alexandra , Duarte Raquel
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Socio-emotional security and particularly secure attachment relationships with parents and peers have been associated with positive developmental outcomes, including school-related variables. This systematic literature review aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the literature, exploring the relationship between socio-emotional security (attachment, support, and secure relations with parents and peers) and academic achievement, school engagement, and early school dropout.

Methods

The inclusion criteria were studies with socio-emotional security as the independent variable and academic achievement and/or school engagement as the dependent variable, using a quantitative methodology, written in English. The exclusion criteria were articles presenting literature review or meta-analysis, interventions or instrument validation studies, studies with a qualitative approach, studies developed in an e-learning context, studies with university students, and/or focused on schooling in extreme conditions (e.g., COVID-19). PRISMA guidelines were followed, through a search that resulted in the identification of 38 empirical quantitative studies, published between 2018 and 2022, in English.

Results and discussion

The results revealed that parent and peer relationships impact students’ academic achievement and school engagement, as expected, and highlighted the relevance of parental and peer relationships for school-related outcomes. Future research should consider the role of potential mediators and moderators in the relationship between socio-emotional security and school outcomes.
The constituents, ideas, and trends in team-based learning: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Flores-Cohaila Javier A. , Moreno Ccama Vanessa Patricia , Baca Quispe Aitana Libertad , Lopez Ayquipa Alisson Micaela , Paz Gamarra Francesca Alessandra , Alfaro Peña Pierre Valentino , Copaja-Corzo Cesar
Published: October 2024

Team-based learning (TBL) has gained significant popularity in higher education. Despite its widespread adoption, there is a lack of comprehensive understanding of the current state of TBL research. Hence, we conducted a bibliometric analysis to address this gap, reviewing 692 papers from the Web of Science database. The study revealed a notable increase in TBL research, with a peak of 87 publications in 2021. The United States emerged as the leading contributor, with medical and nursing education being the most prominent research areas. Specialized journals played a significant role in disseminating TBL research. Key themes, including TBL outcomes, non-technical competencies, and implementation principles, were identified. Moreover, it highlighted a growing interest in applying TBL in interprofessional education and formative assessment. The findings suggest the need to establish priorities and expand TBL research beyond health professions education to other fields. This study provides valuable insights into the current landscape of TBL research and offers directions for future investigations.
Who gets to be an ELT course book author? Native speakerism in English for specific purposes and business English course books
Authors: Kiczkowiak Marek
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Native speakerism has a profound influence on many aspects of ELT, for example negatively affecting job opportunities of those perceived as ‘non-native speakers’. Nevertheless, little is known about the effect of native speakerism on the recruitment of course book authors (CBAs).

Methods

Therefore, this study analysed the linguistic and ethnic representation of 161 CBAs of 77 business English business English and English for specific purposes English for Specific Purposes course books (CBs) published globally by Pearson, OUP, CUP, Macmillan and NGL.

Results

The data clearly show that publishers tend to hire white ‘native speakers’ from the UK as CBAs. More specifically, 90% of all CBA slots were taken by ‘native speakers’, 95% by white CBAs, and 78% by CBAs from the UK.

Discussion

This indicates a profound native speakerist bias among publishers against not only ‘non-native speakers’, but also those ‘native speakers’ who are not white or do not come from the UK. It is thus suggested that business English and English for Specific Purposes publishers pay greater attention to the diversity of the author teams they hire.
Influence of career awareness on STEM career interests among foundation-year students in Mogadishu, Somalia
Authors: Abdi Abdirahman Ibrahim , Mahdi Abdikarim Osman , Omar Abukar Mukhtar , Asiimwe Constance , Osman Mohamed Ali
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the influence of career awareness on STEM career interests among Foundation-year students in Mogadishu, Somalia. By examining self-efficacy, outcome expectations, and academic performance as mediating factors, the research provides new insights into the complex relationships that shape students’ aspirations in STEM fields. Data were collected through a survey of 321 students across four private and public universities and analyzed using Structural Equation Modeling in R-Programming to ensure rigorous evaluation of validity and reliability. The findings reveal that self-efficacy plays a pivotal role in motivating students to pursue STEM careers. At the same time, positive outcome expectations and academic achievements further reinforce their interest in STEM pathways. Although the direct relationship between STEM career awareness and career interests was not statistically significant, the results emphasize the importance of fostering self-belief among students. This study contributes to the understanding of the multifaceted factors influencing STEM career interests and offers practical strategies to enhance self-efficacy, positive outcome expectations, and academic excellence. These findings can inform the development of interventions aimed at inspiring and empowering students in their pursuit of STEM careers.
Study on fuel management strategy for accident-tolerant fuel on in-pile irradiation test
Authors: Gao Qingyu , Zhu Yuxiang , Li Zehua , Jiang Tianze , Zhao Changyou
Published: October 2024

Within the context of the long-term development plan of batch loading of accident-tolerant fuel assemblies, an equivalent physical model of lead test assemblies is established based on the requirements of radiation testing and the applicability of analysis software. The quantitative assessment has been conducted on the impacts of parameters including zirconium alloy cladding coating and pellet additives on reactivity of fuel assembly. Concurrently, the fuel management strategy is optimized in alignment with the irradiation test objectives of ATF assemblies, leading to the creation of an evaluation process tailored for ATF assembly loading pattern. Focusing on the irradiation of the lead test assemblies into a nuclear power plant in China, three-cycle nuclear reactor loading pattern are designed, which are taking into account the economic, safety, and irradiation testing goals of the nuclear power plant. Simultaneously, the neutronic characteristics are also evaluated, quantitatively. The results show that the established equivalent physical model can effectively represent the characteristics of the lead test assemblies. The loading patterns designed based on the Optimised fuel management strategy achieve the desired goals in terms of economy, safety and radiation test requirements. The designed loading pattern evaluation process and equivalent model analysis method in this work provide guidance for the subsequent engineering design and application of irradiation testing for lead test assemblies.
Research on single-phase grounding detection method in small-current grounding systems based on image recognition
Authors: Wan Guangfen , Xu Xuekun
Published: October 2024

In small-current grounding systems, the fault current during a single-phase grounding fault is small, and the transient process is complex, leading to challenges in line selection accuracy and reliability. This paper proposes a single-phase grounding line selection method based on transfer learning using the ResNet-50 model. Zero-sequence voltage and current waveforms at the fault moment are preprocessed and combined to generate training data for the model. Simulation results using PSCAD demonstrate that the proposed method achieves 99.77% validation accuracy, even under noisy conditions. These results confirm the method’s feasibility and reliability in identifying grounding faults in various conditions.
The current status and improvement directions of legal rules regarding Chinese national gene banks for farm animal genetic resources
Authors: Chen Qi , Fan Chien Te , Jiao Hongtao
Published: October 2024

A gene bank for farm animal genetic resources (FAGR) is an important facility for the diversity conservation of FAGR. The primary purpose of gene banks for FAGR is the reconstruction of those breeds. With the advent of the post-genomic era, gene banks for FAGR have increasingly become an infrastructure for the support of livestock research and animal breeding, and a platform for international research collaboration. China is one of the richest countries in the world in terms of FAGR. Chinese National Gene Banks for FAGR (CNGBFs) have an important legal status and play an important function in the Chinese FAGR protection system. In this paper, we reviewed the current situation of CNGBFs construction, and systematically collected and analyzed legal rules related to CNGBFs. As results, those legal rules were categorized into two types: (a) organization and management, (b) activities. We summarized problems existing in the current legal rules for CNGBFs from three levels: institution, practical operation, and digital development. Improvement directions of legal rules regarding CNGBFs are proposed. They include clarifying the utilization function of CNGBFs and the ownership of FAGR in CNGBFs. Moreover, improving the mechanism of administrative management, rules on domestic and international access and benefit-sharing, and the system of digital sequence information management are also suggested. The improvements in those legal rules will contribute to the appropriate utilization of Chinese FAGR and international collaborations.
Pan-cancer analysis and experimental validation of FPR3 as a prognostic and immune infiltration-related biomarker for glioma
Authors: Ye Chenglin , Li Peng , Chen Boxu , Mo Yong , Huang Qianrong , Li Qiuyun , Hou Qinhan , Mo Ligen , Yan Jun
Published: October 2024

Formyl peptide receptor 3 (FPR3) is known to have implications in the progression of various cancer types. Despite this, its biological significance within pan-cancer datasets has yet to be investigated. In this investigation, we scrutinized FPR3’s expression profiles, genetic alterations, prognostic significance, immune-related characteristics, methylation status, tumor mutation burden (TMB), and microsatellite instability (MSI) across different types of cancer. We utilized TISCH’s single-cell data to identify immune cells closely associated with FPR3. The predictive significance of FPR3 was evaluated independently in gliomas using data from TCGA and CGGA datasets, leading to the development of a prognostic nomogram. Immunohistochemistry and Western blot analysis confirmed FPR3 expression in gliomas. Lastly, the CCK-8 and wound-healing assays were employed to assess the impact of FPR3 on the proliferation and metastasis of GBM cell lines. In numerous cancer types, heightened FPR3 expression correlated with adverse outcomes, immune cell infiltration, immune checkpoints, TMB, and MSI. In glioma, FPR3 emerged as a notable risk factor, with the prognostic model effectively forecasting patient results. The potential biological relevance of FPR3 was confirmed in glioma, and it was shown to have significant involvement in the processes of glioma growth, immune infiltration, and metastasis. Our results imply a potential association of FPR3 with tumor immunity, indicating its viability as a prognostic indicator in glioma.
Anti-GABAB receptor encephalitis: clinical and laboratory characteristics, imaging, treatments and prognosis
Authors: Li Dongrui , Zong Shenghua , Yao Yaobing , Molenaar Peter C. , Damoiseaux Jan G. M. C. , Li Hui , Rouhl Rob P. W. , Martinez-Martinez Pilar
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Anti-GABABR encephalitis is a rare disease reported to be often associated with tumors. The current study aims to summarize the clinical characteristics, imaging features, treatments, outcomes and explore the potential prognosis risk factors of patients with anti-GABABR encephalitis.

Methods

Patients tested positive for anti-GABABR were retrospective studied from a single medical center in China over a period of 3 years. They were followed up for a maximum period of 18 months. Clinical data were summarized and prognostic factors including demographic characteristics, laboratory tests, and neurological functions were compared between survived and deceased patients at 18 months follow-up.

Results

Twenty-six patients, 10 females (38.5%) and 16 males (61.5%), diagnosed with anti-GABABR encephalitis were studied. The median age was 58 years. Of the 23 cases with complete clinical data, their main manifestations were epileptic seizures (65%), mental and behavioral abnormalities (52%), and cognitive impairment (48%). 7 (30.4%) cases had tumors: 5 small cell lung cancer (SCLC), 1 rectum adenocarcinoma (moderately differentiated) and 1 esophageal squamous cell carcinoma. MRI showed 5 (22%) cases had T2 FLAIR increased signals in cortex but with different regions affected. One of the two patients scanned for PET-CT showed hypermetabolism in the left temporal lobe region. The disease course ranged from 5 days to 3 years. 2 patients (one had esophageal carcinoma) without immunotherapy and 3 patients (one had SCLC) that did not response to immunotherapy died soon after diagnosis. 18 patients improved after immunotherapy while 3 (all had SCLC) died after relapses. The prevalence of epileptic seizures and malignancies was significantly lower in the survival group than in the deceased group at 18-months follow-up, the same as the admission mRs score. Serum fibrinogen, cerebrospinal fluid immunoglobulin G quotient, and 24-hour intrathecal synthesis rate were significantly lower in the survival groups as well.

Conclusions

Cortex T2 FLAIR abnormalities were only observed in a small proportion of anti-GABABR encephalitis patients with heterogeneous MRI phenotypes. High mRS score at admission, epileptic seizures and the presence of a tumor indicated a poor prognosis, while the underlying mechanism of the later two factors should be investigated further.
SHR-8068 combined with adebrelimab and bevacizumab in the treatment of refractory advanced colorectal cancer: study protocol for a single-arm, phase Ib/II study
Authors: Zhang Pei , Li Xiaofen , Wang Xin , Yang Yu , Wang Jianfei , Cao Dan
Published: October 2024

Background

The third-line treatment for refractory colorectal cancer (CRC) has limited efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of SHR-8068 (an anti-CTLA-4 antibody), combined with adebrelimab (an anti-PD-L1 antibody), and bevacizumab in refractory non-microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H) or proficient mismatch repair (pMMR) CRC.

Method

This study is a prospective, open-label, single-center phase Ib/II clinical trial. Patients with pathologically confirmed pMMR/non-MSI-H metastatic colorectal adenocarcinoma who have failed ≥2 lines prior standard systemic treatments will be enrolled (n=36). The Ib phase will evaluate two dosing regimens of SHR-8068 in combination therapy (n=9 each dosage): SHR-8068 (1 mg per kilogram, every six weeks, intravenously) or SHR-8068 (4 mg per kilogram, every twelve weeks, intravenously) combined with adebrelimab (1200 mg, every three weeks, intravenously) and bevacizumab (7.5 mg per kilogram, every three weeks, intravenously). The efficacy and adverse events (AEs) of these regimens will be assessed to determine the recommended phase II dose (RP2D) of SHR-8068. Those of RP2D group from the phase Ib will be included in the phase II. The study will go to include 18 additional patients according to the one-sample log-rank test design in the phase II. The primary endpoint of the Ib phase is safety, with secondary endpoints including the objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), overall survival (OS), disease control rate (DCR), and quality of life (QOL). The primary endpoint for phase II was PFS, with secondary endpoints including ORR, OS, DCR, safety, and QOL. Identifying biomarkers to predict the efficacy of this regimen is the exploratory study endpoint.

Discussion

This proof-of-concept study would provide safety and efficacy signals of this novel combination treatment for the MSS CRCs in the late-line setting. And it may offer new insights on the clinical application of dual immunotherapy combined with anti-angiogenic therapy in the MSS CRC.
Role of interleukin-18 in mediating the impacts of celiac disease on osteoporosis: a Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xiang Jie , Zheng Xiaoyu , Luo Lan , Yang Xiaoqiang
Published: October 2024

Background

Extensive observational data suggest a link between celiac disease (CeD) and osteoporosis, but the causality and mediating mechanism remain undetermined. Herein, we performed a Mendelian randomization (MR) study to address these concerns.

Methods

We obtained the summary-level statistics for CeD from a large genome-wide association study (GWAS) comprising 4,533 cases and 10,750 controls of European ancestry. The GWAS data for osteoporosis-related traits and inflammatory cytokines were derived from the UK Biobank, FinnGen, IEU OpenGWAS database, or GWAS catalog. Two-sample MR with the inverse variance-weighted methods were employed to evaluate the genetic association between CeD and osteoporosis-related traits. The potential inflammatory mediators from CeD to osteoporosis were explored using two-step mediation analyses.

Results

The primary MR analyses demonstrated causal associations between genetically predicted CeD and osteoporosis (odds ratio [OR]: 1.110, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.043–1.182, p=0.001), total body bone mineral density (β: -0.025, p=0.039), and osteoporotic fracture (OR: 1.124, 95% CI: 1.009–1.253, p=0.034). Extensive sensitivity analyses consolidated these findings. Among the candidate inflammatory cytokines, only interleukin-18 was observed to mediate the effects of CeD on osteoporosis, with an indirect OR of 1.020 (95% CI: 1.000–1.040, p=0.048) and a mediation proportion of 18.9%. The mediation effects of interleukin-18 could be validated in other datasets (OR: 1.015, 95% CI: 1.001–1.029, p=0.041). Bayesian colocalization analysis supported the role of interleukin-18 in osteoporosis.

Conclusion

The present MR study reveals that CeD is associated with an increased risk of developing osteoporosis, which may be partly mediated by upregulation of interleukin-18.
Integrated analysis and experiments uncover the function of disulfidptosis in predicting immunotherapy effectiveness and delineating immune landscapes in uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma
Authors: Han Lei , Li Yilin , Yu Yanjie , Liu Guo , Gao Xiangqian , Wang Fei , Chen Weiwei , Xu Huishu , Zhang Baolin , Xu Yingjiang , Pan Yitong , Huang Yu , Yi Ping
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Recently, a novel type of metabolic-regulated cell demise titled disulfidptosis has been discovered. Studies have demonstrated its importance in immune responses against cancer and its impact on the proliferation of cancer cells. Nonetheless, the precise mechanism and roles of disulfidptosis are not fully understood, particularly regarding the prognosis for individuals with uterine corpus endometrial carcinoma (UCEC).

Methods

In this research, a distinctive disulfidptosis pattern was developed in UCEC, and by utilizing Non-negative Matrix Factorization (NMF) on 23 disulfidptosis related genes within the TCGA database, 3 distinct subgroups were distinguished. To collect data, we acquired gene expression profiles, somatic mutation information, copy number variation data, and corresponding clinical data from the TCGA and GEO database, specifically from UCEC patients. Cell line experiments and immunohistochemical (IHC) staining were conducted to validate the role of the LRPPRC in proliferation, migration and invasion.

Results

The genetic features and immune microenvironment of these subgroups were examined. It is worth mentioning that these subgroups offer important insights into comprehending the tumor microenvironment (TME) and the response of patients to immunotherapy and chemotherapy. Moreover, a disulfidptosis model was developed and validated, demonstrating a high level of accuracy in predicting the prognosis and outcomes of immunotherapy in UCEC patients. Additionally, a novel biomarker, LRPPRC, was identified, which can server as a promising predictor for forecasting prognosis in UCEC patients, with validation through tissue microarray staining and cell line experiments.

Discussion

This study has designed a classification system and a disulfidptosis model for UCEC, in addition to identifying a new biomarker, LRPPRC, for UCEC. These advancements serve as reliable and positive indicators for predicting outcomes and the efficacy of immunotherapy for each UCEC patient.
Allogenic MSC infusion in kidney transplantation recipients promotes within 4 hours distinct B cell and T cell phenotypes
Authors: Hendriks Sanne H. , Heidt Sebastiaan , Reinders Marlies E.J. , Koning Frits , van Kooten Cees
Published: October 2024

Background

Infusion of mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs) has been proposed as immune-modulatory therapy in solid organ transplantation. The use of allogenic MSCs could improve standardization and allow for direct availability of the product.

Method

The nonrandomized phase Ib Neptune clinical trial provided safety and feasibility data on the use of allogenic bone-marrow-derived MSCs, infused in 10 patients at week 25 and 26 post kidney transplantation. Here, we performed detailed analysis on the peripheral blood immune cell composition of these patients up to 52 weeks post transplantation. We used a 40 marker antibody panel with mass cytometry to assess potential effects of MSC therapy on the immune system.

Results

We showed minor changes in major immune lineages at week 27, 34 and 52 post kidney transplantation after MSC infusion at week 25 and week 26, confirming previous data with regular flow cytometry. However, in a direct comparison between pre- and post MSC infusion, as soon as 4 hours after MSC infusion, we observed a significant increase in cell numbers of B cell and T cell subsets that shared a unique expression of CD11b, CD11c, CD38, CD39, and Ki-67.

Conclusion

Exploring these CD11b+CD11c+CD38+CD39+Ki-67+ B cells and T cells in the context of MSC infusion after kidney transplantation may be a promising avenue to better understand the immunological effects of MSC therapy.