bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational analysis of antimicrobial peptides targeting key receptors in infection-related cardiovascular diseases: Molecular docking and dynamics insights
Authors: Dermawan Doni , Alotaiq Nasser
Published: December 2024

Infection-related cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) pose a significant health challenge, driving the need for novel therapeutic strategies to target key receptors involved in inflammation and infection. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) show the potential to disrupt pathogenic processes and offer a promising approach to CVD treatment. This study investigates the binding potential of selected AMPs with critical receptors implicated in CVDs, aiming to explore their therapeutic potential. A comprehensive computational approach was employed to assess AMP interactions with CVD-related receptors, including ACE2, CRP, MMP9, NLRP3, and TLR4. Molecular docking studies identified AMPs with high binding affinities to these targets, notably Tachystatin, Pleurocidin, and Subtilisin A, which showed strong interactions with ACE2, CRP, and MMP9. Following docking, 100 ns molecular dynamics (MD) simulations confirmed the stability of AMP-receptor complexes, and MM/PBSA calculations provided quantitative insights into binding energies, underscoring the potential of these AMPs to modulate receptor activity in infection and inflammation contexts. The study highlights the therapeutic potential of Tachystatin, Pleurocidin, and Subtilisin A in targeting infection-related pathways in CVDs. These AMPs demonstrate promising receptor binding properties and stability in computational models. Future research should focus on in vitro and in vivo studies to confirm their efficacy and safety, paving the way for potential clinical applications in managing infection-related cardiovascular conditions.
Efficacy and Safety of 360º and 180º Gonioscopy-Assisted Transluminal Trabeculotomy in Combination with Phacoemulsification in Patients with Open-Angle Glaucoma: A Retrospective Case-Control Study.
Authors: Kormas Ran Matlov , Klepfish Eleanor Gafni , Marcovich Arie , Kassem Rabea
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To compare the efficacy and safety of 360º suture gonioscopy-assisted transluminal trabeculotomy (GATT) and 180º GATT (hemi-GATT) combined with cataract surgery in patients with open-angle glaucoma (OAG).
Methods: This single-center retrospective study included patients with OAG treated by GATT or hemi-GATT combined with phacoemulsification with at least six months of follow-up. Outcome measures included change in intraocular pressure (IOP), best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA), and number of glaucoma medications (NGM) used. Success was defined as IOP<18 mmHg with complete reduction of NGM, or IOP<Pre-Op IOP with complete reduction of NGM, or more than 20% IOP reduction with the same or a smaller number of NGM.
Results: Data from 35 patients (mean age=76 years) and 38 treated eyes were included in this study. The procedural success rate with GATT and hemi-GATT was 94% and 91%, respectively. Average IOP reduced from 17.0±4.8 to 12.9±2.7 mmHg in GATT (Δ=-4.2 mmHg, p=0.005) and from 17.8±4.9 to 13.8±3.12 mmHg in hemi-GATT (Δ=-4 mmHg, p=0.002) groups after six months. Average NGM was reduced from 3.5 to 0.3 medications in GATT (Δ=-3.2, p<0.0001) and from 2.5 to 0.5 medications in hemi-GATT (Δ=-2, p<0.0001) after six months. There were no serious adverse events in the two study groups.
Conclusion: GATT and hemi-GATT with concomitant phacoemulsification cataract surgery are equally safe and effective procedures for decreasing IOP and NGM.
Late-night screen time and screen time addiction as shared determinants of poor sleep and obesity in adolescents aged 11-14 years in Scotland
Authors: Gale Emma Louise , Williams Andrew James , Cecil Joanne E
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
The overall quantity of screen time has been associated with short sleep duration and increasingly sedentary lifestyles, leading to adiposity. The aim of this research was to explore which components of screen time usage are shared determinants of poor sleep and higher adiposity in adolescents, using data from the Teen Sleep Well Study (TSWS).
Methods
A cross-sectional study of adolescents aged 11-14-years in Fife, Scotland. Sleep was measured objectively using the Actigraph GT3X-BT and subjectively using validated questionnaires. Adiposity was assessed using body fat percentage and obesity was measured using body mass index percentile (BMIp). Four components of screen time were addressed using questionnaires: the timing of screen time (first and last 30 minutes of the day), quantity of screen time (weekday and weekend, via SCREENS-Q), location of screen time (use of a phone in bed, in the bedroom overnight, as an alarm), and screen time addiction (Videogaming Addiction Questionnaire (VGA-Q), Social Media Addiction Questionnaire (SMA-Q) and Mobile Phone Addiction Questionnaire (MPA-Q)). Descriptive statistics and statistical tests such as Pearson correlation tables, regression analyses and mediation analyses were used. Analyses were adjusted for the demographics of the child participant and caregiver and the wellbeing of the adolescent.
Results
62 participants (33F/29M, mean age 12.2 ± 1.1 years, mean BMI percentile 60.3 ± 32.1) completed the study and were part of the analysis. Excessive late-night and early-morning screen time usage, excessive screen time on a weekend, screen time addiction and using screens in the 30-minutes prior to sleep onset were shared determinants of higher adiposity, a later chronotype and poor sleep regulation outcomes: poor sleep habits, increased insomnia symptoms and increased sleep onset variability. Mediation analyses confirmed that wellbeing of the adolescent was a mediator of the relationship between screen time outcomes and insomnia symptoms and body fat percentage.
Conclusions
These screen time behaviours could be targeted in health-promoting interventions. Further research should assess longitudinal relationships between different components of screen time, sleep and adiposity, when adjusted for wellbeing in adolescents.
Capsule retractors for intraoperative stabilization of the lens during phacoemulsification with weak zonules: a retrospective review
Authors: Kolarov Dobrin , Puk Clemens , Wirbelauer Christopher
Published: December 2024

Purpose
To examine the outcomes of phacoemulsification with capsule retractors in eyes with severe zonular weakness in terms of postoperative stability of the intraocular lens (IOL) and complications.
Methods
All cataract surgeries utilizing capsule retractors in a specialized eye clinic over 6 years were retrospectively reviewed. Predisposing risk factors, the intraoperative technique, the visual acuity, the refractive outcome and position of the IOL were analyzed.
Results
Forty-four surgeries were identified. Postoperative data was available in 36 cases (81.8%) for a mean observation period of 18.3 ± 18.8 months. In 42 cases (95.5%) the surgery was completed with implantation of a capsular tension ring (CTR) and an IOL in the capsular bag. The mean refractive prediction error was 0.04 ± 1.10 D. The mean astigmatism was reduced from − 1.85 ± 1.27 D to -1.52 ± 0.80 D (P = .09). In 15 eyes the IOL was centered and in 10 eyes slightly decentered, in all cases the IOL covered the optical axis. Postoperatively one (2.3%) late dislocation of the IOL and one (2.3%) retinal detachment occurred.
Conclusions
Capsule retractors combined with a CTR are safe and effective for the management of cataract with compromised zonules. The postoperative IOL position and refraction show little clinically significant decentration.
Epigenetic modulation of RIPK3 by Transglutaminase 2-dependent serotonylation of H3K4me3 affects necroptosis
Authors: Vecchio Alessio , Colasuonno Fiorella , Bellanca Veronica , Pitolli Consuelo , Occhigrossi Luca , Ciccarone Fabio , D'Eletto Manuela , Sano Federica Di , Pagliarini Vittoria , Sette Claudio , Piacentini Mauro , Rossin Federica
Published: December 2024

The receptor interacting protein kinase 3 (RIPK 3) is the main player in the activation of necroptosis, a pro-inflammatory regulated cell death modality induced by many different stimuli. RIPK3 is epigenetically regulated by DNA methylation and can be expressed when its promoter is associated with H3K4me3 histone. In this study, we show that Transglutaminase 2 protein (TG2) is necessary to induce necroptosis pathway allowing the expression of Ripk3 gene. Indeed, cells lacking TG2 show a strong downregulation of Ripk3 gene and are resistant to necroptotic stimuli. TG2 is known to promote the serotonylation of H3K4me3 histone (H3K4me3Q5ser) regulating in this way the target gene expression. Interestingly, we find that TG2 interacts with both histones H3K4me3 and H3K4me3Q5ser and these post-translational modifications are associated with the Ripk3 promoter only in presence of TG2. In addition, the absence of the H3K4me3Q5ser, in cells lacking TG2, is correlated with Ripk3 gene methylation. Altogether, these results indicate that RIPK3 expression requires TG2 mediated serotonylation of H3K4me3 to prevent Ripk3 promoter methylation, thus favouring its expression and necroptosis induction.
Demethylation inhibitor fungicides have a significantly detrimental impact on population growth and community composition of nectar microbial communities
Authors: Quevedo-Caraballo Sergio , Roldán Alejandra , Álvarez-Pérez Sergio
Published: December 2024

Demethylation inhibitor (DMI) fungicides are a mainstay of modern agriculture due to their widespread use for crop protection against plant-pathogenic fungi. However, DMI residues can disperse and persist in the environment, potentially affecting non-target fungi. Previous research has demonstrated that DMIs and other fungicides inhibit yeast growth in floral nectar microbial communities and decrease fungal richness and diversity of exposed flowers with no apparent effect on bacteria. Nevertheless, the effect of DMIs on the population growth of different species of nectar inhabitants and the dynamics of these microbial communities remains understudied. To address these issues, in this study we created synthetic microbial communities including nectar specialist and habitat generalist yeasts and bacteria and propagated them in artificial nectars containing different DMIs (imazalil, propiconazole, and prothioconazole) at different doses or no fungicide. Our results showed that DMIs have a significant impact on nectar microbial populations and favor the growth of bacteria over yeasts. Furthermore, habitat generalists are more impacted by these fungicides than nectar specialists, and the detrimental effect of fungicides on yeast population growth and community composition seems to be amplified upon dispersal across habitat patches. Future research should explore the interaction between growth limitation due to fungicide presence, dispersal limitation, and other mechanisms involved in community assembly in floral nectar.
Alterations in the serum metabolome and proteome of adults after acclimatization to hypoxic environments at different altitudes
Authors: Zhao Jiao , Liu Weili , Wang Xiaoming , Chen Xuewei , Pu Lingling , Wang Zirou , Liu Xiaohua , Wang Xinxing
Published: December 2024

Long-term exposure to high altitudes can induce adaptive or pathological changes in humans; however, the effects of altitude on human serum remain unclear. This study employed untargeted metabolomics and proteomics to examine the differences in serum metabolites and proteins from subjects residing at altitudes of 2900, 3500, 4300, and 4600 m for at least one year compared with those residing in a plain area (altitude of 3 m) under normoxic conditions. The results revealed that long-term high-altitude hypoxia significantly altered human serum metabolites and proteins. Moreover, the pathways of linoleic acid metabolism, arachidonic acid (AA) metabolism, and the complement and coagulation cascades were significantly altered in response to hypoxia. Further analysis revealed that hypoxia at extremely high altitudes (3500–4600 m) promoted the conversion of AA into thromboxane A2, thromboxane B2, 15(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid, and 12(S)-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid in platelets, resulting in reduced serum AA levels and platelet aggregation. Additionally, the metabolism of AA in platelets further increased with increasing altitude. Exposure to high-altitude areas (2900–4600 meters) increased oxygen transport, glycolysis, coagulation, and inhibits complement activation by increasing the expression of proteins such as globin, glyceraldehyde-3-phosphate dehydrogenase, superoxide dismutase 1, carbonate dehydratase II, and inhibiting complement component 1q. The inhibition of fibrinogen and coagulation factor XI may represent a physiological response to thrombosis and may be associated with liver injury. These findings indicate that high-altitude exposure promotes adaptation to hypoxia by increasing oxygen transport and glycolysis, and promotes thrombosis by interfering with platelet metabolism, and disrupts the complement system by inducing liver damage.
Advancing Thermal Multi-Object Tracking with Attention and Metric Fusion
Authors: Tran Thao-Anh , Le Vu-Minh , Phan Thanh-Tung , Hoang Dung , Phan Duc , Ninh Huong , Tran Hai
Published: December 2024

Multiple-Object Tracking (MOT) is a fundamental task in computer vision with many applications. For practical operations, tracking for monitoring with thermal imaging unaffected by lighting conditions is important. However, most MOT methods are proposed to analyze video streams from RGB cameras, while there are few datasets and research on multi-object tracking in infrared image sequences. In this paper, we provide a new infrared dataset for object detection and tracking, which contains small objects and occlusion challenges. We also propose a new robust tracker, which enhances object detection with the strategic integration of the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) into the YOLOv7 model, along with specialized fusion of IoU, Size, and ReID features during data association to overcome the challenges of thermal images. Our tracker achieves 59.29 HOTA, 73.46 MOTA, and 74.4 IDF1 as a new state-of-the-art on the CAMEL benchmark. The tracker's source code and dataset are publicly available at: https://github.com/aquarter147/TMTV_Thermal_MOT
Systematic Evaluation of Utility and Usability of Publicly Available Mobile Apps for the Early Detection and Monitoring of Infectious Diseases
Authors: Kalyar Fatema , Gurdasani Deepti , Maclntyre Raina , Chughtai Abrar
Published: December 2024

Background:
Publicly available disease detection platforms have contributed to epidemic surveillance, facilitating the early detection of outbreaks of infectious diseases. With the increasing use of mobile technology, the potential of epidemic surveillance apps has become significant in monitoring and responding to public health threats. The aim of this study was to review the current landscape of mobile apps used for epidemic detection and surveillance, employing a systematic approach to determine their utility and usability.
Methods:
A search of publicly available surveillance apps for infectious diseases was conducted on Apple App Store and Google Play Store, as well as in the relevant literature. We used pre-specified eligibility inclusion criteria. A qualitative assessment framework, focusing on utility and usability features, was developed and applied to selected epidemic detection and surveillance apps. From this evaluation, a utility and usability percentage score were calculated for each app.
Results:
We found 56 mobile apps, of which 11 met the eligibility criteria. Six apps were designed for single infectious diseases, while others covered a range of infectious diseases and syndromes. Of the 11 selected apps, seven had a country-specific scope, while four had a global scope. Two of the apps scored above 70% in utility, largely due to their effective detection and surveillance capabilities. Additionally, three apps achieved scores above 60% in usability, attributed to their broad accessibility and enhanced data visualization.
Conclusion:
Infectious disease surveillance mobile apps reveal a heterogeneous landscape of usability and utility. The results indicate that apps with strong surveillance features offer substantial utility, but adding elements that cater to user needs could enhance usability and user experience. Apps with extensive disease coverage are valuable for early detection of emerging diseases, while context-specific apps excel in tracking. This underscores the need for a balanced mix to meet comprehensive public health needs.
PillarBAPI: Enhancing Pillar-Based 3D Object Detection through attentive Pseudo-Image Feature Extraction
Authors: Wang Jie , Yu Yue , Cheng Jietao , Li Jun , Tang Jun
Published: December 2024

Three-dimensional (3D) object detection plays a pivotal role in autonomous driving and intelligent robots. However, current methods often struggle with false and missing detections, especially for small objects. To address these challenges, this paper introduces PillarBAPI, a high-performance 3D object detection network that improves pillar feature coding and enhances point cloud feature representation. PillarBAPI proposes an Attention-based Point and Pillar Feature Extraction (APFE) module to reduce information loss from maximum pooling and enable the model to focus on local and global features. Additionally, we introduce a Pseudo-Image Feature Extraction Network (PIFE) and a novel neck design, B-ASPP, to enhance pseudo-image feature extraction and promote multiscale feature fusion. Extensive experiments on the KITTI dataset demonstrate that Pillar BAPI achieves significant improvements in both 3D and Bird's Eye View (BEV) benchmarks, particularly for small target detection. The contributions of this work lie in the enhanced pillar feature coding, attentive feature extraction, and efficient multi-scale feature fusion, collectively contributing to improved 3D object detection performance. The code will be released at https://github.com/wangjie16138/PillarBAPI/.
Three dimensional Particle-in-Cell simulation of a radio-frequency ion thruster (RIT-2.5) : model validation with experiments
Authors: Joshi Ninad , Heiliger Christian , Holste Kristof , Klar Peter , Meusel Oliver
Published: December 2024

The University of Giessen has been developing miniature ion thrusters that can be used to fine-tune the positioning of the spacecraft. The \emph{PlasmaPIC} code was developed to study plasma processes inside the discharge chamber and help optimize thruster performance.In an attempt to validate the numerical model describing the properties of plasma inside a small-size radio frequency ion thruster, experiments were performed in collaboration with Goethe University. The simulations were performed using revised \emph{PlasmaPIC} code to establish the plasma properties like density and temperature depending upon the input neutral gas flow, power and operational frequency. These results were then compared with the measurements from experiments correlating plasma density and electron temperatures with extracted currents.In this paper, we present a modified numerical model and a comparative analysis between these measurements and simulations providing the validation of the numerical model.
Dose-dependent effects of cadmium on food consumption, mass, and bioaccumulation in the moth Spodoptera littoralis
Authors: Humann-Guilleminot Ségolène , Pottier Marie-Anne , Rouelle Maryse , Maria Annick , Maïbèche Martine , Siaussat David
Published: December 2024

Our environment is increasingly contaminated by various substances, mainly from industrial and agricultural activities. Among the main pollutants, heavy metals, are highly toxic to a wide range of organisms including invertebrates. In our study, we focused on the impacts of cadmium on the model pest moth Spodoptera littoralis. In laboratory conditions, larvae were exposed to a diet contaminated with nine different cadmium concentrations ranging from 7.80 µg/g to 50 mg/g of food, over six developmental stages. Our results show that sublethal doses of cadmium have a significant effect on food consumption and relative larval growth rate over a 6-day period, and to a lesser extent, affect larval mass at higher doses. Adverse effects were noted at a sublethal dose of 31.25 µg/g, with particularly severe outcomes at the highest lethal doses ranging from 0.5 to 50 mg/g, where 100% mortality was observed after treatment. While higher doses from 250 µg/g influenced larval mass, most larvae recovered and regained mass, except for those exposed to the two highest doses just prior metamorphosis. In addition, our results indicated that cadmium accumulation reached its maximum at pupal stage and decreased in adults, suggesting that efficient detoxification processes occur during metamorphosis, with significant amounts of cadmium that were excreted through the integument and exuviae at the pre-pupal stage. Moreover, moths that ingested cadmium at larval stage have stored most of it in their digestive tract, from where it has been transferred to various parts of the body, including the head and antennae, via haemolymph.
A Novel Nanomedicine for Osteosarcoma Treatment: Triggering Ferroptosis through GSH Depletion and Inhibition for Enhanced Synergistic PDT/PTT Therapy
Authors: Xu Tangbing , Ma Qiming , Zhang Chi , He Xiaoyan , Wang Qian , Wu Yunfeng , Qin Kunpeng , Liao Faxue , Zhou Ping , Xu Pengfei , Yang Jialai , Yang Junjun , Chang Jun , Qiao Lei , Hu Yong
Published: December 2024

Osteosarcoma treatment remains challenging due to the limitations of single-modality therapies.To address this, we designed a carrier-free nanomedicine SRF@CuSO4.5H2O@IR780 (CSIR) for synergistic ferroptosis, photodynamic therapy (PDT), and photothermal therapy (PTT) in osteosarcoma. Interestingly, CSIR could harness the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect to effectively enter tumors. Copper ions (Cu2+) within CSIR could react with the reductive intracellular environment, depleting glutathione (GSH) levels. Near-infrared (NIR) irradiation of CSIR further depleted GSH through reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation. Additionally, CSIR released sorafenib (SRF), which inhibited cystine-glutamate antiporter system xCT (xCT), thereby blocking GSH biosynthesis. RNA sequencing data confirmed ferroptosis induction by CSIR. This synergistic strategy of GSH depletion-induced ferroptosis, enhanced PDT, and photothermal cascade holds promise for improved osteosarcoma treatment and future nanomedicine design.
Time-dependent Taylor-Couette Flow in an Annulus Partially Filled with Porous Material
Authors: Yusuf Taiwo Samuel , Jha Basant Kumar
Published: December 2024

The current investigation examines the time-dependent dynamics of fluid within a system composed of two coaxial rotating cylinders partially filled with clear fluid and fluid saturated with isotropic porous material of uniform permeability. The fluid motion is induced by the time-dependent exponential decay/growth boundary motion of the two cylinders. Through the utilization of the semi-analytical methodology, which incorporates the Laplace transform technique and the Riemann-sum approximation approach, a comprehensive examination is conducted on the interaction between the transparent fluid and the isotropic porous medium, as well as the influence of the time-dependent exponential decay or growth boundary condition on both surfaces. The results encompass the influence of different factors entering the dimensionless model. It is demonstrated that the velocity of the fluid in the area containing porous material is increased when the inner cylinder experiences exponential growth. The shear stress at both cylinders can be controlled by taking into account the suitable time-dependent exponential growth/decay at the surfaces.
Cohort profile: Healthy Ageing in Scotland (HAGIS) COVID-19 Impact and Recovery Study
Authors: Arakelyan Stella , Houston John , Bell David , Douglas Elaine
Published: December 2024

The Healthy Ageing in Scotland (HAGIS) COVID-19 Impact and Recovery Study is a multidisciplinary large-scale study of older adults (aged ³ 50) living in Scotland. The study was established to explore the spectrum of COVID-19 concerns in older adults and its impact on their willingness to (re)engage across health, social, and economic domains as Scotland’s economy and society emerged from the pandemic. The survey data were collected between October 2021 and January 2022 using electronic, postal self-completion interviews and telephone-assisted personal interviews. From a target sample of 15,674 older adults, drawn from two existing Scottish longitudinal studies and a predefined panel, 3,373 (59% women and 41% men) individuals completed the survey. The data provide a wealth of information on older adults’ socio-demographics, COVID-19-induced fear, worries and concerns, health domains, social capital and participation, economic and consumption behaviours, return to workplace experiences and preferences. The data and documentation is available via UK Data Service (https://beta.ukdataservice.ac.uk/datacatalogue/studies/study?id=9130). Documentation and supporting reports are available on the study website (https://www.hagis.scot and https://beta.ukdataservice.ac.uk/datacatalogue/studies/study?id=9130#!/documentation The academic team involved with HAGIS welcomes the use of these anonymised data for research purposes in the UK and internationally.
Antibacterial Compounds Against Non-Growing and Intracellular Bacteria
Authors: Kaldalu Niilo , Bērziņš Normunds , Fick Stina Berglund , Sharma Atin , Andersson Naomi , Aedla Jüri , Hinnu Mariliis , Puhar Andrea , Hauryliuk Vasili , Tenson Tanel
Published: December 2024

Slow- and non-growing bacterial populations, along with intracellular pathogens, often evade standard antibacterial treatments and are linked to persistent and recurrent infections. This necessitates the development of therapies specifically targeting nonproliferating bacteria. To identify compounds active against non-growing uropathogenic Escherichia coli (UPEC) we performed a drug-repurposing screen of 6,454 approved drugs and drug candidates. Using dilution-regrowth assays, we identified 39 compounds that either kill non-growing UPEC or delay its regrowth post-treatment. The hits include fluoroquinolones, macrolides, rifamycins, biguanide disinfectants, a pleuromutilin, and anti-cancer agents. 29 of the hits have not previously been recognized as active against non-growing bacteria. The hits were further tested against non-growing Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Staphylococcus aureus. Ten compounds – solithromycin, rifabutin, mitomycin C, and seven fluoroquinolones – have strong bactericidal activity against non-growing P. aeruginosa, killing > 4 log10 of bacteria at 2.5 µM. Solithromycin, valnemulin, evofosfamide, and satraplatin are unique in their ability to selectively target non-growing bacteria, exhibiting poor efficacy against growing bacteria. Finally, 31 hit compounds inhibit the growth of intracellular Shigella flexneri in a human enterocyte infection model, indicating their ability to permeate the cytoplasm of host cells. The identified compounds hold potential for treating persistent infections, warranting further comparative studies with current standard-of-care antibiotics.
Leveraging Pre-Trained Neural Networks to Enhance Machine Learning with Variational Quantum Circuits
Authors: Qi Jun , Yang Chao-Han , Samuel Yen-Chi , Chen Pin-Yu , Zenil Hector , Tegner Jesper
Published: December 2024

Quantum Machine Learning (QML) offers tremendous potential but is currently limited by the availability of qubits. We introduce an innovative approach that utilizes pre-trained neural networks to enhance Variational Quantum Circuits (VQC). This technique effectively separates approximation error from qubit count and removes the need for restrictive conditions, making QML more viable for real-world applications. Our method significantly improves parameter optimization for VQC while delivering notable gains in representation and generalization capabilities, as evidenced by rigorous theoretical analysis and extensive empirical testing on quantum dot classification tasks. Moreover, our results extend to applications such as human genome analysis, demonstrating the broad applicability of our approach. By addressing the constraints of current quantum hardware, our work paves the way for a new era of advanced QML applications, unlocking the full potential of quantum computing in fields such as machine learning, materials science, medicine, mimetics, and various interdisciplinary areas.
Adaptation, stress management, mood and its relationship with academic performance in Peruvian students beginning their university studies
Authors: CÓNDOR JOSÉ LEONCIO BAUTISTA , Enriquez Benicio Gonzalo Acosta , Dávila Denis Luis Orbegoso , Reyes Diana Emérita Germán , Vergara Joseph Anibal Martin , Urbina Glenda Judy Vela
Published: December 2024

Antecedentes Los estudiantes enfrentan desafíos importantes al iniciar sus estudios, entre ellos, presiones sociales y académicas que requieren habilidades específicas para adaptarse sin comprometer su bienestar. El objetivo de este estudio fue analizar las relaciones entre la adaptación al entorno universitario, el manejo del estrés, el estado de ánimo y el rendimiento académico en una muestra de estudiantes universitarios peruanos.
Método El estudio siguió un enfoque cuantitativo con un diseño no experimental, transversal y correlacional. Se aplicó una encuesta a 201 estudiantes que iniciaban sus estudios universitarios.
Resultados Los resultados confirmaron la hipótesis; al aplicar la prueba de correlación de Spearman, los coeficientes obtenidos entre el rendimiento académico y las variables Adaptabilidad con rs=0.848, Manejo del estrés con rs=0.860 y Estado de ánimo general con rs=0.823 fueron altos, indicando una fuerte relación positiva entre estas variables y el Rendimiento Académico. Los valores p para todas las correlaciones fueron menores a 0.01 (p=0.000 < 0.01), confirmando que las relaciones son estadísticamente significativas al nivel del 1%.
Las correlaciones significativas indican una fuerte relación positiva entre adaptabilidad, manejo del estrés, estado de ánimo general y rendimiento académico en estudiantes universitarios de la Facultad de Educación, resaltando la importancia de los factores psicosociales en el éxito académico de los estudiantes que inician sus estudios universitarios.
Palabras clave: Adaptabilidad, manejo del estrés, estado de ánimo, rendimiento académico.
Neospora caninum inhibits Lewis cancer and B16F10 melanoma lung metastasis development by activating the immune response in murine models
Authors: Qian Weifeng , Chen Yaqi , Li Chen , Li Xiaojin , Lv Chaochao , Jia Yanyan , Hu Suhui , Zhang Min , Wang Tianqi , Yan Wenchao , Qi Meng
Published: December 2024

Malignant tumors are prevalent with high mortality rates in humans, dogs, and cats. Some microorganisms have been shown to inhibit cancer progression. The objective of this study is to evaluate the inhibitory effects of Neospora caninum, a livestock parasite, on three different tumor models in C57BL/6 mice, including Lewis subcutaneous tumors, Lewis and B16F10 melanoma lung metastasis. The results showed that a sufficient amount of N. caninum tachyzoites can significantly inhibit the development of subcutaneous tumors and lung metastasis (P < 0.001), and induce more than 50% tumor cell death in Lewis subcutaneous tumors. N. caninum treatment can significantly increases the infiltration of macrophages, NK cells, and CD8+ T cells (P < 0.0001) in Lewis subcutaneous tumors detected by immunohistochemistry, and the percentage of these immunocytes in the spleen (P < 0.05) of mice bearing B16F10 melanoma metastasis detected by flow cytometry. And with these changes, the mRNA expression levels of IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-10, TNF-α and PD-L1 in tumor microenvironment and IL-12, IFN-γ, IL-2 in spleen were also significantly increased (P < 0.05). Altogether, our results indicate that a sufficient amount N. caninum tachyzoites not only inhibits the growth of Lewis subcutaneous tumors, but inhibits the development of Lewis and B16F10 melanomas lung metastatic in mice by activating potent immune responses. N. caninum and its anti-tumor properties may be an effective anti-tumor tool.
Prevalence of Helicobacter Pylori infection, Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and iron deficiency, and possible association of H pylori infection as a potential cause among Ezidi Refugees in rural Armidale: Findings from a Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Noh Grace , Tran Nelson , McMorran Oliver , Hu Edric , Coumans Joëlle V.F. , Ali Salma Hago Mustafa
Published: December 2024

In Australia, Middle Eastern refugees, notably the Ezidi community (an ethnic and religious minority from Northern Iraq and Syria) are disproportionately affected by high rates of vitamin and iron deficiencies. These deficiencies pose significant health risks and can impact overall well-being. Recent studies have suggested a possible correlation between Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection and deficiencies in essential vitamins and iron, highlighting an important area of research that warrants further exploration. For several reasons, understanding the relationship between H. pylori infection and nutrient deficiencies in newly arrived Ezidi refugees is critical. First, it may provide insights into the underlying health challenges this population faces, who often arrive with pre-existing health issues. Second, establishing this association could inform current screening practices, allowing for targeted interventions that address both H. pylori infection and nutritional deficiencies. Ultimately, this research aims to contribute to the development of effective health strategies that enhance the well-being of Ezidi refugees, ensuring they receive the necessary support to thrive in their new environment. By focusing on this intersection of infectious disease and nutritional health, we can better understand and mitigate the risks this vulnerable group faces. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed using data collected from Ezidi refugees in Armidale Medical Centre and Armidale Hospital from 2018 to 2024. The data was analysed to determine the prevalence of H. pylori and deficiencies in iron, vitamin B12, and vitamin D. Further analysis was done with data from Armidale Medical Center only, to study any potential association between H. pylori infection and those same micronutrient deficiencies. Results: H. pylori infection was detected in 76.7% of refugees tested. The rates of iron deficiency were 35.2% at Armidale Medical Centre and 41.9% at Armidale Hospital. Vitamin B12 deficiency was found in 50.7% and 58% of individuals, and vitamin D deficiency was present in 79.6% and 82.6%, respectively. No statistically significant associations were found between H. pylori infection and iron or vitamin D deficiency. However, a statistically significant association was observed between the absence of H. pylori and vitamin B12 deficiency. Conclusion: This is a significantly higher prevalence of H. pylori infection, iron deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, and vitamin D deficiency among Ezidi refugees in Armidale. The relationship between H. pylori infection and micronutrient deficiencies remains unclear. Further research is needed to clarify these associations and guide future screening protocols for Ezidi refugees.
For Mainstream and Alternative Activism:
Authors: Hjorth Malin , Olsson Tobias
Published: December 2024

Welche Wege gehen politisch aktive Jugendliche in der konvergenten Medienwelt und wie machen sie sich diese im Rahmen ihrer politischen Aktivitäten zunutze? Es wird untersucht, wie politisch aktive Jugendliche in alternativen Bewegungen bzw. Mitglieder in Jugendorganisationen von Parteien Medien im Allgemeinen und das Internet im Besonderen wahrnehmen und nutzen. Wie finden Jugendliche in alternativen Bewegungen in der konvergenten Medienwelt Räume für die Bildung ihrer politischen Identität und wie wird durch den netzwerkartigen Charakterdes Internets als Infrastruktur vernetztes Arbeiten in alternativen Bewegungen grundgelegt?
Internet bleibt Kommunikationsmedium: JIM-Studie 2009
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Seit 1998 gibt die JIM-Studie, die vom Medienpädagogischen Forschungsverbund Südwest in Auftrag gegeben wird, Aufschluss über den Medienumgang der Zwölf- bis 19-Jährigen in Deutschland. Nachdem sich in diesen elf Jahren einiges in der Medienlandschaft verändert hat, wurde in der JIM-Studie 2009 erstmals die Computertätigkeit nicht mehr in ‚offline‘ und ‚online‘ kategorisiert, sondern nach Art und Motivation der Nutzung der Angebote. Zudem wurden im Wahljahr 2009 das Interesse für Politik im Allgemeinen und für die bevorstehende Bundestagswahl im Besonderen sowie die präferierten Informationsquellen zur Wahl abgefragt. Im Alltag nutzen Kinder und Jugendliche entgegen aller Annahmen Fernsehen und Internet in nahezu identischem Umfang – rund 90 Prozent der Befragten geben an, mehrmals pro Woche fernzusehen, ebenso häufig wird die Nutzung des Internets genannt. Gerade zur Information über aktuelles Zeitgeschehen und Politik sowie Sport und Stars liegt der Fernseher noch vor dem Internet. Zwei Drittel der befragten Kinder und Jugendlichen geben an, regelmäßig Videoportale im Internet zu besuchen, aber nur ein Drittel sieht regelmäßig Fernsehausschnitte im Internet an. Zwei Drittel empfinden die eher passive Nutzung des vorstrukturierten Fernsehprogramms als Vorteil. Wenn sich die Heranwachsenden über Musik, aber auch über Ausbildung und Beruf, persönliche Probleme oder Handy sowie Computerspiele informieren wollen, tun sie das bevorzugt im Internet. Dennoch bleibt das Internet für die Mehrheit der Befragten in erster Linie Kommunikationsmedium – knapp die Hälfte der Nutzungszeit wird in sozialen Netzwerken, beim Chatten oder mit dem Schreiben von E-Mails verbracht. Weniger als die Hälfte der Kinder und Jugendlichen hat in sozialen Netzwerken die ‚privacy‘- Funktion aktiviert, das heißt, dass die eingestellten Informationen nicht nur von einem bestimmten Personenkreis eingesehen werden können, sondern allgemein zugänglich sind. www.mpfs.de
Musikhören als Konstitution geteilter Bezugnahmen auf Selbst und Welt
Authors: Hartung-Griemberg Anja
Published: December 2024

Das gemeinsame Musikhören in Familien vermag ebenso Momente sozialer Nähe und Bindung zu konstituieren wie das Schaffen von Situa­tionen intersubjektiver Verständigung und das Entstehen von Gemeinsamkeit. Nicht zuletzt vor diesem Hintergrund ist jenen allzu verein­fachenden Etikettierungen von Jugendzeit als Zeit der Absetzbewegung und Ablösung vom Elternhaus zu widersprechen, die noch allzu oft die mystifizierte Liaison ‚Musik und Jugend’ beschreiben.
Juuuport – dein Schutz im Web
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Julia wird von einem Klassenkameraden im Internet gemobbt, Tom ist sich nicht sicher, was mit den Daten geschieht, die er in Social Communitys wie SchuelerVZ auf sein Profil lädt, und Mia überlegt, ob sie einen Handyvertrag abschließen kann, wo sie doch noch nicht volljährig ist. Alle drei suchen mit ihren Problemen Rat, und alle drei tun das auf der Plattform juuuport, die seit Ende September 2009 in Betrieb ist. Hier werden Julia, Tom, Mia und viele andere Nutzerinnen und Nutzer aber nicht von Erwachsenen beraten, sondern von Jugendlichen – Juuuport ist eine Online-Plattfom von Jugendlichen für Jugendliche. Optisch ansprechend im Comic-Stil gestaltet, ohne dabei überladen zu wirken, bietet Juuuport den jugendlichen Ratsuchenden die Möglichkeit, sich mit ihren Anliegen rund um die neuen Medien im fooorum direkt an die Community zu wenden. Vielleicht wissen andere Userinnen und User ja eine Antwort oder können aus eigener Erfahrung berichten, wie sie mit bestimmten Problemen umgegangen sind. Aber nicht alle Probleme, die einem im Web begegnen, möchte man öffentlich ansprechen. Um auch bei solchen Problemen helfen zu können gibt es die Rubrik Beratung, in der sich die Nutzerinnen und Nutzer per Kontaktformular oder E-mail direkt an einen sogenannten „Scout“ wenden können. Scouts sind extra geschulte Jugendliche zwischen 14 und 18 Jahren, die ehrenamtlich als Beraterinnen und Berater zur Verfügung stehen oder die Seite als Admins aktiv mitgestalten. Außerdem können die Nutzerinnen und Nutzer sich über Internetseiten beschweren, die sie als verstörend oder abstoßend empf inden. Die Beschwerden werden vom juuuport-Team geprüft und an zuständige Institutionen weitergeleitet. Zudem klärt das Portal in der Rubrik Thema des Monats über aktuelle Probleme und Gefahren wie etwa Phishing auf und bietet eine Liste mit hilfreichen weiterführenden Links an. Das Online-Portal geht auf eine Initiative der Niedersächsischen Landesmedienanstalt (NLM) zurück und wird durch die Bremische Landesmedienanstalt (brema), die Medienanstalt Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein (MA HSH) und die Landesrundfunkzentrale Mecklenburg-Vorpommern (LRZ MV) mitgefördert. http://juuuport.de
Zahlen oder nicht zahlen?
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Das Urheberrecht hat es schwer in Zeiten des Internet: Oft gibt es Musik und Filme schon vor ihrer Veröffentlichung illegal online. Der Schaden für die Industrie geht allein in Deutschland jährlich in die Millionen. Die Initiative RESPE©T COPYRIGHTS möchte hier aufklären und das Thema Raubkopieren für Jugendliche greifbar machen. Dazu bietet sie auf ihrer Homepage neben kostenfreien Unterrichtsmaterialien auch eine Anleitung für ein Rollenspiel, das helfen soll, auf spielerische und differenzierte Weise mit Jugendlichen über das Thema Urheberrecht ins Gespräch zu kommen. Das Rollenspiel will einen persönlichen Zugang ermöglichen und bedient sich deshalb einer nachvollziehbaren Ausgangssituation: Horst Müller betreibt ein kleines, eigentlich beliebtes Kino. Seit Jahren kommen aber immer weniger Gäste, denn viele sehen sich die Filme lieber kostenlos, wenn auch illegal als Download an. Als wäre das nicht genug, hat Herr Müller auch noch Ärger mit dem Filmverleih, denn eine bei einer Razzia gefundene Raubkopie wurde nachweislich in seinem Kino mitgeschnitten! Horst Müller weiß nicht weiter, schließlich ist er auf die Verleihe angewiesen, doch er möchte seine Kundschaft auch nicht durch übertriebene Sicherheitskontrollen verärgern. So lädt er zur Podiumsdiskussion, um gemeinsam mit Jugendlichen eine Lösung zu finden. Die Teilnehmenden vertreten dabei unterschiedliche Meinungen: Von der Schauspielerin bis zum Raubkopierer darf jeder zu Wort kommen. Neben der neutralen Moderatorin sind mit Müller insgesamt sieben Charaktere dargestellt, deren Positionen auf Rollenkarten beschrieben werden. So können sich die Jugendlichen auf ihre Rolle vorbereiten und Argumente für ihre Figur zurechtlegen. Darüber hinaus bietet das Material Hintergrundinformationen über die Filmindustrie, die rechtlichen Grundlagen des Urheberrechts sowie drohende Strafen bei Verletzung. Das hilft den Jugendlichen, zu verstehen, warum geistiges Eigentum geschützt wird und dass der Schaden durch illegale Downloads zwar Hollywoodstars nicht weh tut, vielen anderen Personen, die an der Produktion beteiligt sind, aber schon. Zudem wird gezeigt, wie Argumente für das Raubkopieren mit dem nötigen Hintergrundwissen entkräftet werden können. www.respectcopyrights.de
Jugendliche als FSKPrüfer?!
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Wie nehmen Jugendliche zwischen 16 und 18 Jahren Gewalt in Filmen wahr und wie verarbeiten sie das Gesehene? Diese Frage versucht das Projekt 16 – Medienkompetenz und Jugendschutz III zu beantworten. Über 200 Jugendliche aus verschiedenen Schulformen sind für das Projekt, das von der Freiwilligen Selbstkontrolle der Filmwirtschaft GmbH (FSK) in Zusammenarbeit mit dem Ministerium für Bildung, Wissenschaft, Jugend und Kultur Rheinland-Pfalz initiiert wurde, in die Rolle der FSK-Prüferinnen und Prüfer geschlüpft, um gewalthaltige Genrefilme zu beurteilen. Ausgewählt wurden dafür drei Kinofilme, die in den Ausschüssen der FSK zwischen „Beeinträchtigung“ und „Gefährdung“ in Bezug auf die Gewaltwirkung diskutiert wurden – die Filme 300, Vier Brüder und Chiko. Die Auseinandersetzung der Jugendlichen mit der Filmanalyse, der Beurteilung von Wirkungen und die anschließende Diskussion um die Jugendfreigabe sollten zum einen deren Medienkompetenz fördern, zum anderen die Spruchpraxis der FSK um Einblicke in die Lebenswelten der Jugendlichen erweitern. Schließlich ist es für Erwachsene nicht immer leicht, die Medienmündigkeit Heranwachsender und deren Kompetenz im Umgang mit medialer Gewalt einzuschätzen. Die Ergebnisse des Projekts wurden daher mit der Arbeit der plural besetzen FSK-Ausschüsse konfrontiert und verglichen. Dabei wird deutlich, dass die befragten Jugendlichen klare Grenzen zwischen Jugend- und Erwachsenenfreigaben setzten und zu den gleichen Altersfreigaben kamen wie die Ausschüsse der FSK. Konnten sich Heranwachsende mit bestimmten Situationen identifizieren, setzten sie sich vermehrt mit den scheiternden Heldenfiguren auseinander. Teilweise wurde Gewalt unreflektiert hingenommen, doch gleichzeitig suchten die Jugendlichen, die insgesamt große Seherfahrungen im Actionbereich aufzeigten, auch nach Ursachen für das Gewaltverhalten Einzelner. Der Ablauf und die Ergebnisse des Projektes, das neben der Förderung der Medien- und Kommunikationskompetenz aller Beteiligten auch als Beitrag zum präventiven Jugendmedienschutz zu verstehen ist, kann in der Broschüre Medienkompetenz und Jugendschutz III. Projekt 16 – wie beurteilen Jugendliche Gewalt im Film?, die bei der FSK inklusive DVD kostenfrei bestellt werden kann, nachvollzogen werden. Die DVD bietet mit Interviews mit den Schülerinnen und Schülern sowie Verantwortlichen der FSK zudem einen atmosphärischen Einblick in die Vorgehensweise des Projektes. http://www.spio.de/index.asp?SeitID=442
Neue Medien – Neue Herausforderungen für die Sexualpädagogik
Authors: Hartl Johann
Published: December 2024

Sexuelle Lernprozesse heutiger Jugendlicher sind kaum mehr ohne den Einfluss digitaler Medien zu denken. Die Sexualpädagogik steht damit vor der Herausforderung, die veränderten Lebenswirklichkeiten Jugendlicher konzeptuell wie auch methodisch zu reflektieren, um den gewandelten Ansprüchen ihrer Zielgruppen weiterhin entsprechen zu können.