bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiological Trends and Disparities in Renal Complications Among Adults with Diabetes Mellitus in the United States: A CDC WONDER Database Analysis (1999-2020)
Authors: Naveed Muhammad Abdullah , Ahmed Faizan , Ali Ahila , Azeem Bazil , Kashan Muhammad , Ahmed Mushood , Eltawansy Sherif , Aman Kainat , Iqbal Rabia , Amanullah Aman , Zafar Muhammad Naveed , Ahmed Raheel
Published: December 2024

Backgrounds: Renal complications of diabetes mellitus pose a significant public health challenge, contributing to substantial morbidity and mortality globally. Understanding temporal trends and regional disparities in mortality related to diabetic nephropathy is crucial for guiding targeted interventions and policy decisions. Our study aimed to analyze the trends and regional differences in mortality related to renal complications of diabetes among adults in the United States from 1999 to 2020.Methods: A retrospective analysis has been conducted using death certificate data from the CDC WONDER database, spanning from 1999 to 2020, to investigate mortality related to renal complications of diabetes in adults aged 35 or above. Age-adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) per 100,000 persons and annual percent change (APC) were computed, with stratification by year, sex, race/ethnicity, and geographic regionResults: Between 1999 and 2020, a total of 525,804 deaths occurred among adults aged 35 to 85+ years due to renal-related issues associated with diabetes. The age-adjusted mortality rate (AAMR) for renal-related deaths in adult diabetic patients showed a consistent increase from 1.6 in 1999 to 34.9 in 2020 (AAPC: 17.23; 95% CI: 13.35-28.79). Throughout the study period, men consistently had higher AAMR than women (overall AAMR for men: 17.8, 95% CI: 17.7-17.9; for women: 11.2, 95% CI: 11.1-11.2). In 1999, the AAMR for men was 1.6, increasing to 27.6 by 2020, while for women, it was 1.8 in 1999 and rose to 44.2 by 2020 (Men: AAPC: 17.54, 95% CI: 13.09-29.53; Women: AAPC: 15.55, 95% CI: 13.35-21.10). American Indian/Alaska Native adults exhibited the highest overall AAMR (36.1), followed by Black/African American (25.5), Hispanic (22.5), Asian/Pacific Islander adults (15.4), and White Population (11.4). Significant variations in AAMR were observed among different states, with Oklahoma recording the highest (21.2) and Connecticut the lowest (7). Furthermore, AAMR varied by region (overall AAMR: Western 16.6; Midwestern: 14.4; Southern: 14.1; Northeastern: 9.9), and nonmetropolitan areas had a higher AAMR for renal complications of diabetes (16) compared to metropolitan areas (13.5).Conclusion: Our findings highlight a concerning rise in mortality related to renal complications of diabetes among U.S. adults over the past two decades, with notable disparities across demographic and geographic factors. These results underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to mitigate the burden of diabetic nephropathy and reduce mortality rates in the United States.
The Thermal Ablation with MRgFUS: From Physics to Oncological Applications
Authors: Leporace Mario , Calabria Ferdinando F , Siciliano Roberto , Capalbo Carlo , Filippiadis Dimitrios K , Iezzi Roberto
Published: December 2024

The growing interest in minimal and non-invasive therapies, especially in the field of cancer treatment, highlights a significant shift towards safer and more effective options. High-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (HIFU) stands out as a promising alternative to traditional percutaneous ablative procedures. By combining HIFU with MRI guidance, we can enhance treatment precision, improve real-time procedural control, and ensure accurate outcome assessment. Magnetic Resonance-guided Focused Ultrasound (MRgFUS) induces deep coagulation necrosis within an elliptical focal area, effectively encompassing the entire tumor site and allowing for highly targeted radical ablation. The applications of MRgFUS in oncology are expanding rapidly. It offers pain relief and curative treatment options for bone metastatic lesions. Additionally, it plays an effective role in targeted optional therapies for early prostate and breast tumors. Emerging research focuses also on the potential uses in treating abdominal cancers and harnessing capabilities to stimulate immune responses against tumors or facilitate the delivery of anticancer drugs. This evolving landscape presents exciting opportunities for improving patient outcomes and advancing cancer treatment methodologies. In neuro-oncology, MRgFUS utilizes Low-Intensity Focused Ultrasound (LIFU) along with intravenous microbubbles to open the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and enhance the intra-tumoral delivery of chemotherapy drugs.
Analysing Drivers of Tropical Moist Forest Dynamics in the Kahuzi-Biega National Park Landscape, Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo from 1990 to 2022
Authors: Cirezi Nadège Cizungu , Bastin Jean-François , Mugumaarhahama Yannick , Useni Yannick Sikuzani , Karume Katcho , Lumbuenamo Raymond Sinsi , Bogaert Jan
Published: December 2024

The protected areas (PA) of the Democratic Republic of the Congo serve as vital carbon reservoirs and are crucial for biodiversity conservation and climate regulation. Despite their significance, these areas face escalating rates of deforestation and degradation, often poorly understood at the local level. This study focuses on the dynamics of tropical moist forest (TMF) and the relative importance of the driving factors in the landscape of Kahuzi-Biega National Park (KBNP), one of the country's prominent PAs. Analyzing annual TMF dynamics from 1990 to 2022, using data classified by Vancutsem et al (2021) from Landsat imagery alongside spatial datasets of deforestation and degradation drivers, we employed a comprehensive analytical approach. This included meshing, multi-scale analysis, principal component analysis, zoning, multiple linear regression, and relative importance analysis through bootstrapping. Findings indicate that the grid size considered does not significantly influence TMF dynamics in the KBNP landscape (p-value=0.67). The edge and outer zones experienced substantial dynamics, with approximately 30% forest cover loss in both areas, contrasting with the relatively stable TMF cover (~100%) in the inner zone. Fire emerged as the most influential drivers, explaining TMF dynamics with relative importance of approximately 55%, 30%, and 23% in the inner, edge, and outer zones, respectively. The study underscores KBNP's efficacy in curbing TMF loss but highlights the need for enhanced protection around its periphery. Management efforts should prioritize sustainable land use practices, livelihood improvement, and establishment of an officially recognized buffer zone.
Hybrid GRU-TCN Deep Learning with SELU Activation for Solar Irradiance and Photovoltaic Power Forecasting
Authors: Moon Jihoon
Published: December 2024

Accurate forecasting of solar irradiance and photovoltaic (PV) power generation is critical for optimizing renewable energy integration and enhancing energy management systems. This study addresses the dual prediction of solar irradiance and PV power generation by developing a hybrid deep learning model that combines gated recurrent unit (GRU) and temporal convolutional network (TCN) along with scaled exponential linear unit (SELU) activation functions. The proposed GRU-TCN-SELU model leverages the strengths of GRUs in capturing temporal dependencies and TCNs in handling long-range patterns, while SELU activation ensures self-normalizing properties that enhance model convergence and performance. The model was trained and evaluated using datasets from Jeju Island, South Korea, and Alice Springs, Australia, encompassing various meteorological variables and historical solar data. Experimental results demonstrate that the GRU-TCN-SELU model outperforms traditional single-model approaches in terms of mean absolute error (MAE) and root mean square error (RMSE), achieving higher accuracy in both solar irradiance and PV power forecasts. These findings highlight the effectiveness of integrating GRU and TCN architectures with SELU activation for reliable renewable energy prediction, facilitating improved energy generation planning and smart energy management systems.
Enhancing Radiation Shielding Capabilities with Epoxy-Resin Composites Reinforced with Coral-Derived Calcium Carbonate Fillers
Authors: Tochaikul Gunjanaporn , Tanadchangsaeng Nuttapol , Panaksri Anuchan , Moonkum Nutthapong
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the development and characterization of epoxy-resin composites reinforced with coral-derived calcium carbonate (CaCO₃) fillers, with a focus on enhancing their radiation shielding and mechanical properties. Leveraging the high calcium content and density of coral, these composites are proposed as a sustainable and lightweight alternative to conventional materials like lead. Composites were prepared by incorporating coral-derived CaCO₃ fillers at weight fractions of 0%, 25%, and 50% into an epoxy resin matrix. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses revealed that higher filler concentrations (50%) led to increased particle agglomeration, impacting matrix uniformity. Mechanical testing showed that while tensile and flexural strengths decreased with higher filler content, compressive strength improved significantly, reaching 135 MPa at 50% coral content. Radiation shielding evaluation demonstrated that increasing filler content enhanced attenuation performance, with the 50% coral composite achieving a 39.63% absorption rate at 60 kVp. Despite its lower shielding efficiency compared to lead, the composite provides a safer and more environmentally friendly alternative for moderate shielding applications. These findings highlight the potential of coral-derived CaCO₃ fillers in developing sustainable materials for radiation protection, with future work needed to optimize filler dispersion and explore hybrid material systems.
Changes in the Content of Dietary Fiber, Flavonoids, and Phenolic Acids in the Morphological Parts of Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn Under Drought Stress
Authors: Dziedzic Krzysztof , Ariyarathna Pathumi , Szwengiel Artur , Hęś Marzanna , Ratajczak Karolina , Górecka Danuta , Sulewska Hanna , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: December 2024

Background: Tartary buckwheat is a plant recognized for its resistance to various environmental stresses. Due to its valuable source of phenolic compounds, Fagopyrum tataricum is also charac-terized as a medicinal plant, therefore the aim of study was investigation of the drought stress for the levels of phenolic compounds in morphological parts of the plant.
Methods: The experiment was conducted in 7 L pots under laboratory conditions. Phenolic compounds were identified using a UHPLC-MS chromatography system. Antioxidant activity was assessed using well-known methods, including the DPPH scavenging activity, and ferrous ion chelating activity.
Results: In Tartary buckwheat leaves, stems, seeds, and husks, 57 phenolic compounds were identified, with a predominance of quercetin 3-rutinoside, quercetin, kaempferol-3-rutinoside, kaempferol, and derivatives of coumaric acid. It was observed that the Tartary buckwheat sam-ples subjected to drought stress exhibited a slight decrease in the majority of individual phenolic compounds.
Conclusions: The measurement of biological parameters indicated that plant regeneration after drought stress demonstrated a rapid recovery, which can be a positive response to the progres-sion of climate changes.
Digital Transformation in the Water Distribution System based on the Digital Twins Concept
Authors: Homaei MohammadHossein , Di Bartolo Agust´ın Javie , Ávila Mar , Mogollón Gutiérrez Óscar , Caro Andrés
Published: December 2024

Digital Twins have emerged as a disruptive technology with great potential; they can enhance WDS by offering real-time monitoring, predictive maintenance, and optimization capabilities. This paper describes the development of a state-of-the-art DT platform for WDS, introducing advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things, Artificial Intelligence, and Machine Learning models. This paper provides insight into the architecture of the proposed platform-CAUCCES-that, informed by both historical and meteorological data, effectively deploys AI/ML models like LSTM networks, Prophet, LightGBM, and XGBoost in trying to predict water consumption patterns. Furthermore, we delve into how optimization in the maintenance of WDS can be achieved by formulating a Constraint Programming problem for scheduling, hence minimizing the operational cost efficiently with reduced environmental impacts. It also focuses on cybersecurity and protection to ensure the integrity and reliability of the DT platform. In this view, the system will contribute to improvements in decision-making capabilities, operational efficiency, and system reliability, with reassurance being drawn from the important role it can play toward sustainable management of water resources.
An Efficient Simulation Method for Deep-Vertical-Well Drillstring Dynamics Based on Nonlinear Beam Element
Authors: Bo Yang , Kuang Yuchun , Han Yiwei , Zhang Tao
Published: December 2024

In the research field of drillstring mechanics, there are two main problems: First, the upper boundary conditions of the lower drillstring model are not accurate enough, and second, the computational efficiency of the full-well drillstring model is low. To address these problems, a solution based on a kind of free flexible beam theory (geometrically accurate beam theory) is proposed in this paper. By converting the key parameters of the upper drillstrings, such as mass, friction, and stiffness, into equivalent ones, we establish a dynamically equivalent and efficient drillstrings model.

Compared with the full-well drillstring simulation method, we find that the efficient drillstring model achieves a significant reduction in computation time, specifically from 80.53% to 93.24%. Furthermore, we compared the efficient drillstring model coupled with the dynamic loads of rock breaking with the results of indoor tests and full-well drillstring. The comparison results show that the errors between the computational results of the efficient drillstring model and the indoor test results range from 0.405% to 11.11%. In addition, we also found that the efficient drillstring model is consistent with the experimental results in terms of the parameter influence pattern, which further verifies the accuracy of the efficient drillstring model.

The efficient drillstring model can simulate the actual rate of penetration (ROP) and torque on bit (TOB) with an error of less than 10% for different depths in the field, which indicates that the model is also highly accurate in practical applications. This paper’s research has significant academic value and practical application relevance as it not only offers theoretical support for the optimization of the mechanical model of drillstrings but also offers helpful direction for experimental research and field application.
Diagnosis alfalfa salt stress based on UAV multispectral image texture and vegetation index
Authors: Ma Hong , Zhao Wenju , Yu Haiying , Yang Pengtao , Yang Faqi , Li Zongli
Published: December 2024

Aims
This study aimed to explore the effects of increasing image texture features and removing soil background on the alfalfa salt stress diagnosis accuracy.
Methods
This study extracted spectral reflectance to construct 15 vegetation indexes, and used gray level co-occurrence matrix to calculate eight image texture features. The Canny edge detection algorithm was used to remove the soil background, and set T1 (vegetation index non-removed soil background), T2 (vegetation index + image texture features non-removed soil background), T3 (vegetation index removed soil background), T4 (vegetation index + image texture features removed soil background), as independent variables to construct salt stress diagnosis model based on the support vector regression algorithm, and determined the best salt stress diagnosis model.
Results
Compared with the T1, the modeling and validation accuracies of salt stress diagnosis model constructed based on the T2 increased by 13.39% and 13.36%, respectively, and those of salt stress diagnosis model constructed based on the T3 increased by 6.30% and 5.33%. The salt stress diagnosis accuracy constructed based on T4 was the highest, with the modeling set R2, RMSE, and RPD of 0.675, 0.2143, and 1.7735, respectively, and the validation set R2, RMSE, and RPD of 0.652, 0.2349, and 15749, respectively. The modeling and validation accuracies of the salt stress diagnosis model constructed based on crop salt stress index (CSSI) reached more than 0.564 and 0.549, respectively, which can be used as a new indicator for diagnosing salt stress.
Conclusions
Both increasing image texture features and removing soil background can significantly improve the accuracy of alfalfa salt stress diagnosis.
Transcriptome-wide identification and characterization of WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX) gene family in Pinus yunnanensis
Authors: Xu Junfei , Hu Zhaoliu , Chen Sili , Tang Junrong , Chen Lin , Chen Peizhen , Cai Nianhui , Xu Yulan
Published: December 2024

WUSCHEL-related homeobox (WOX), a specific gene family in plants, plays a critical role during stem cell regulation, plant regeneration and upgrowth. However, our understanding of WOX functions in conifers is limited compared to angiosperms. To address this gap, we investigated the presence, expression profiles and protein characteristics of WOX gene in P. yunnanensis. Our findings revealed that 10 PyWOX genes were dispersed across three existing clades, and their expression profiles were presented in specific developmental stages and tissues. The ancient-clade members (PyWOX13, PyWOXG, PyWOXA) exhibited constitutive expressions in the majority of tissues and developmental stages, indicating that they are the oldest and conserved WOX genes. Members of the intermediate-clade (PyWOXB, PyWOXE) were primarily expressed during callus formation and seed germination, suggesting a role in promoting embryogenesis and plant regeneration. Most members of WUS-clade (PyWUS, PyWOX3, PyWOX4, PyWOX5, PyWOXX) showed high transcripts level in cluster buds, which may be related to stem cell regulation and the formation of axillary meristems. The self-activation assay demonstrated that PyWOX4 has transcriptional activation activity. Our study also suggested that there were highly conserved and clear orthologs of WOX genes present in Pinus. Together, these findings provide a foundation for further clarifying the function and regulatory mechanism of WOX genes in P. yunnanensis growth and development.
Fluid flow measurements in fully penetrated 316L TIG welding
Authors: Blanc Nicolas , Soulié Fabien , Bendaoud Issam , Rouquette Sebastien , Deschaux-Baume Frédéric , Bordreuil Cyril
Published: December 2024

Fluid flow motion controls energy transfer in the weld pool and drives solidification process. Experimental investigation of fluid flow during welding is made particularly difficult by unsteady movements in the molten pool.Fluid flow measurements in Tungsten Inert Gas (TIG) welding are important to understand and control energy transfers during the process. In this paper, a setup was designed to observe free surfaces during a fully penetrated TIG welding. Edge detection is applied to obtain the weld pool border and Particle Tracking Velocimetry (PTV) method is applied based on gas bubbles and particles along the free surface opposite to the arc. The method allows to investigate velocities and fluid flow motion. The method is carried on three different welding speeds at a constant current (80A) leading to three different linear heat inputs. Images on the penetrated side showed oscillations of the fluid flow that goes from one vortex on the side of the weld pool to the other vortex on the other side. Velocity measurements can give insight to the intensity of the fluid flow. Finally, its behavior are discussed in relation with assumption of its 3D component and its physical origin.
Physical Safety Climate, Safety Practices and Perceived Well-Being of Informal Solid Waste Collectors in the Cape Coast Metropolis
Authors: Maneen Samuel , Botha Nkosi Nkosi , Amoadu Mustapha , Ansah Edward Wilson
Published: December 2024

Background: Safety of the work environment for informal solid waste collectors keeps deteriorating, mainly due to poor working conditions. The study seeks to explore the physical safety climate, safety practices and how that impact the health and well-being of informal solid waste collectors within Cape Coast Municipal, Ghana.
Methods: This cross-sectional survey sampled 120 informal solid waste collectors in the Cape Coast Metropolis. These participants were selected using purposive and convenient sampling methods, while frequency counts, percentage analysis, bivariate correlation and multiple regression were used to analyse the data.
Results: The results revealed that 40.8% of the workers perceived their work as high-risk due to low physical safety climate, and 41.7% exhibited poor safety practices. There was also a strong positive relationship between perceived well-being, physical safety climate, and safety practices of the workers. Moreover, after controlling for the demographic factors, hierarchical multiple regression analysis revealed that physical safety climate (B = 0.844; p < 0.001) was a significant in predicting perceived well-being of the workers. However, safety practices did not significantly predict the well-being of these workers (B = 0.067; p = 0.356).
Conclusion: Informal sold waste collectors in Cape Coast are exposed to poor physical safety climate, contributing to their poor safety practices while at work. We suggest that Ghana’s quest to achieve Sustainable Development Goals 3, 6 and 8 will be hard to attain unless every person’s health and well-being is taken care for diligently.
A recurrent MCF2 variant which disrupts DCC binding leads to congenital mirror movements and corpus callosum agenesis
Authors: Accogli Andrea , Roy Victoria Veas , Yam Patricia , Addour-Boudrahem Nassima , Michaud Jean-Francois , Schlienger Sabrina , St-Onge Judith , Trouillard Oriane , Dubacq Caroline , Roze Emmanuel , Fallet-Bianco Catherine , Verheij Joke , Schoots Mirthe , McNabb Evan , Fortier Veronique , Wong Alex , Klostranec Jesse , Barthelemy Dorothy , Charron Frederic , Sr Myriam
Published: December 2024

Neuronal wiring in the developing nervous system relies on axon guidance, a process which enables proper axon pathfinding to target cells. Disruption of axon guidance results in a wide spectrum of defects including congenital mirror movements (CMM) and corpus callosum agenesis (CCA). Axon guidance signaling pathways, such as Netrin-1/DCC, act through guanine nucleotide exchange factors (GEFs) to activate Rho GTPases, which regulate axon outgrowth and pathfinding. MCF2 is an X-linked gene that encodes a GEF which activates the GTPases Rac1 and Cdc42. We identify a recurrent hemizygous MCF2 variant [NM_001171876.2: c.31C > T p.(R11W)] in two unrelated cases displaying axon guidance and corticospinal defects: an adult male with CMM and an unrelated male fetus with CCA and abnormal corticospinal tract decussation on autopsy. Through biochemical and cellular studies, we demonstrate that MCF2 interacts physically with DCC and is able to induce DCC subcellular relocalization. The MCF2 p.(R11W) variant disrupts the interaction with DCC, is less efficient at relocalizing DCC, and has decreased GEF activity. Together, our results link an MCF2 variant to axon guidance defects in humans. Furthermore, our data suggests that this MCF2 variant may impair axon guidance by impacting DCC signaling, a key regulator of commissural and corticospinal axon guidance.
Genetically predicted leucine level mediates association between CD4/CD8br T lymphocytes and insomnia
Authors: Luo Sumei , Yin Jianyin , Li Ke , Tang Jing , Wang Xiaohong , Li Aiyuan , Chen Liang
Published: December 2024

Background
Immune and metabolic factors play an important role in the onset and development of insomnia. This study aimed to investigate the causal relationship between insomnia and immune cells and metabolites.
Methods
Data for 731 immune cell phenotypes, 1,400 metabolites, and insomnia in this study were obtained from the GWAS open-access database. Two-way Mendelian randomization was used to (1) detect the causal relationship between immune cells and insomnia, and (2) to identify potential mediating metabolites.
Results
Mendelian randomization analysis identified eight immune cell phenotypes with a causal relationship to insomnia, two immune cell phenotypes were protective factors for insomnia, namely CD8br %T cells and CD80 on CD62L + myeloid dendritic cells. The other six immune cell phenotypes were risk factors for insomnia, i.e., CD4/CD8br, CD16-CD56 on NKT, CCR2 on myeloid dendritic cells, CD40 on monocytes, CD38 on CD3-CD19-, and CD25 on CD45RA + CD4 not Treg. Further Mendelian randomization revealed 11 metabolites that were causally related to insomnia. Five metabolites were protective factors for insomnia, i.e., 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutarate, cholate, dodecanedioate, N-formylmethionine, and x-26054. Six metabolites were risk factors for insomnia, 3-amino-2-piperidone, 6-oxopiperdine-2-carboxylate, caffeine to theophylline ratio, leucine, maltose, and x-24736. In addition, our analysis showed leucine mediated the association between CD4/CD8br and insomnia.
Conclusions
From genetic information, we confirmed the causal relationship between insomnia, eight immune cell phenotypes, and eleven metabolite levels. Notably, we found a relationship between leucine-mediated CD4/CD8br and insomnia, providing evidence supporting the causal relationship between immune cell and insomnia, with plasma metabolites serving as mediators.
Evaluation of Lead levels in Decorative and Automobile Paints marketed in South-West, Nigeria
Authors: Akindele Ajoke Fehintola Idayat , Osibanjo Oladele
Published: December 2024

Paints and coatings add aesthetics to our daily lives. Their demand has increased due to urbanization and has led to an increase in lead (Pb) in the ecosystem and its potential risks to health. Pb is toxic and has no safe levels for children. This study examines the levels of lead in paints from major paint distribution markets in Southwestern Nigeria. Analyses were done using wet acid digestion and graphite-furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS 220GF). The levels of Pb (µg/g ± SD in dry weight) ranged from 4,790 ± 40–79,300 ± 80 in a light silver and matte black automobile paint, while in the decorative paints, samples ranged from 2,220 ± 10–91,500 ± 49 in a cream (plastic) and black (enamel) color. The highest level of Pb in the plastic paints was up to 142 fold and 944 fold, while in the enamel, 153 fold and 1017 fold, above the 600 µg/g and 90 µg/g recommended limits by the United States Environmental Protection Agency and Consumer Product Safety Commission, respectively. Lead compounds are pigments used to improve the color quality of paint formulations. The present study poses a serious concern. As a result, there is a need for greater public awareness and strict enforcement of the ban on leaded paint by government regulatory bodies.
Transcriptome analysis of novel B16 melanoma metastatic variants generated by serial intracarotid artery injection
Authors: Kienzler Jenny C. , Contreras Erick M. , Treger Janet , Liau Linda M. , Owens Geoffrey C. , Prins Robert M.
Published: December 2024

The incidence of brain metastases (BrM) in patients with metastatic melanoma is reported to be 30–50% and constitutes the third most frequent BrM after breast and renal cancers. Treatment strategies including surgical resection, stereotactic radiation, and immunotherapy have improved clinical response rates and overall survival, but the changes that occur in circulating melanoma cells to promote invasion of the brain are not fully understood. To investigate brain tropism, we generated new variants of the B16 mouse melanoma model by serially passaging B16 cells through the brain of immune competent syngeneic C57BL/6 mice. Cells were injected into the right carotid artery and recovered from the brain after the mice had reached the study endpoint due to tumor burden, then expanded in vitro and reinjected. We compared the transcriptomes of 4th generation B16 cell populations from separate lineages with the founder B16-F0 cells. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) of differentially expressed protein coding genes revealed that cells isolated from the brain as well as from the lung and meninges expressed higher levels of genes associated with an epithelial to mesenchymal transition (EMT), upregulation of the KRAS signaling pathway, and a metastasis aggressiveness gene signature associated with poor survival in melanoma patients. Principal component analysis of differentially expressed genes showed that 4th generation melanoma cells isolated from the brain, lung and meninges from one lineage were distinct from those of the other three lineages. Among the differentially expressed genes, transcript levels of several genes, including Itgb2, Rftn2, and Kcnn4, were significantly higher in all cell populations that comprised this lineage compared with all cell populations from the other three lineages. In conclusion we have derived an aggressive highly brain metastatic B16 variant by serially passaging cells in vivo.
Recommended antibiotic treatment agreement between infectious diseases specialists and ChatGPT®
Authors: Montiel-Romero Santiago , Rajme-López Sandra , Román-Montes Carla Marina , López-Iñiguez Alvaro , Rivera-Villegas Héctor Orlando , Ochoa-Hein Eric , González-Lara María Fernanda , Ponce-de-León Alfredo , Tamez-Torres Karla María , Martinez-Guerra Bernardo Alfonso
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND
Antimicrobial resistance is a global threat to public health. Chat Generative Pre-trained Transformer (ChatGPT®) is an advanced language model based on artificial intelligence. ChatGPT® could analyze data from antimicrobial susceptibility tests in real time, especially in places where infectious diseases (ID) specialists are not available. We aimed to evaluate the agreement between ChatGPT® and ID specialists regarding appropriate antibiotic prescription in simulated cases.
METHODS
Using data from microbiological isolates recovered in our center, we fabricated 100 cases of patients with different infections. Each case included age, infectious syndrome, isolated organism and complete antibiogram. Considering a precise set of instructions, the cases were introduced into ChatGPT® and presented to five ID specialists. For each case, we asked, 1) “What is the most appropriate antibiotic that should be prescribed to the patient in the clinical case?” and 2) “According to the interpretation of the antibiogram, what is the most probable mechanism of resistance?”. We then calculated the agreement between ID specialists and ChatGPT®, as well as Cohen’s kappa coefficient.
RESULTS
Regarding the recommended antibiotic prescription, agreement between ID specialists and ChatGPT® was observed in 51/100 cases. The calculated kappa coefficient was 0.48. Agreement on antimicrobial resistance mechanisms was observed in 42/100 cases. The calculated kappa coefficient was 0.39. In a subanalysis according to infectious syndromes and microorganisms, Agreement (range 25% – 80%) and kappa coefficients (range 0.21 – 0.79) varied.
CONCLUSION
We found poor agreement between ID specialists and ChatGPT® regarding the recommended antibiotic management in simulated clinical cases.
Interrupted time series analysis to evaluate the impact of COVID-19-pandemic on the incidence of notifiable infectious diseases in the Lazio region, Italy
Authors: Spaziante Martina , Leone Sara , D’amato Maurizio , Carli Gabriella , Tonziello Gilda , Malatesta Giorgio Nicolò , Agresta Alessandro , Santis Claudia , Vantaggio Valentina , Pitti Giovanni , Fusco Maria Concetta , Piselli Pierluca , Barca Alessandra , Girardi Enrico , Scognamiglio° Paola , Vairo° Francesco
Published: December 2024

Background
The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) emergency accounted for a profound disruption in the infectious diseases’ transmission dynamics worldwide. This phenomenon was at least in part driven by the introduction of non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs), implemented to tackle viral transmission. Our study aimed to assess the magnitude and the features of the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on the incidence of notifiable infectious diseases (NIDs) in Lazio region, Italy.
Methods
Lazio region NIDs data with date of symptoms onset falling in the time interval from January 1st, 2017 to December 31st, 2023 were collected from different surveillance system databases available at SERESMI/Lazio Region Unit and classified in five categories based on the main route of transmission of the disease. Descriptive statistics were performed and interrupted time series (ITS) analysis was used to assess the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic and subsequent recovery period on NIDs monthly cases.
Results
Just after the onset of COVID-19 pandemic a significant, sharp and immediate reduction in the monthly cases of all NIDs was registered (-86.73%), regardless the route of transmission. The decrease was particularly significant for vector-borne, food-borne and respiratory transmitted diseases (RDs), and overall in female sex.
During the COVID-19 recovery phase the all-NIDs monthly cases shown a relevant positive level change which was particularly significant for sexually transmitted/blood-borne diseases, contact and RDs.
Discussion
The COVID-19 pandemic was responsible for the disruption of all NIDs transmission patterns, whereas the magnitude and the dynamics of its effects varied in relation of transmission route; also, the impact of the pandemic wave was still perceivable during the post-COVID-19 era and NIDs incidence trajectories in this phase were peculiar for each disease category.
Current Applications and Research Trends of Ultrasound Examination in Acute Kidney Injury Assessment: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Jiang Jiawei , Zhou Jinqiang , Bao Jiating , Gao Hongmei
Published: December 2024

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant clinical condition, and ultrasound examination has emerged as a crucial non-invasive imaging method for assessing kidney status, especially in its diagnosis and management. This study aims to perform a bibliometric analysis to clarify current research trends in ultrasound assessment of AKI.
Methods: We conducted a literature search in the Web of Science database using keywords related to ultrasound examinations of acute kidney injury, up to November 15, 2023. The results were analyzed using the bibliometric software package in R. Relevant literature information was analyzed.
Results: A total of 1,109 articles were included in the study. Research papers published between 2019 and 2024 demonstrated a significant upward trend. The United States, China, and Italy ranked as the top three countries in terms of publication volume. Among the top 10 research institutions with the highest number of publications, 6 are in the United States, with Université de Montréal being the institution with the most publications. Keyword trends focused on: resistive index, risk factors, therapy, glomerular filtration rate, survival, etc.
Conclusion: This bibliometric study highlights the advancements in ultrasound examination for AKI and underscores the importance of such analyses in determining research trends. Future research should emphasize the integration of various imaging techniques to improve diagnostic accuracy and clinical management of AKI.
Burden and complexity of multimorbidity: Findings from Dhulikhel Heart Study
Authors: Timalsena Dinesh , Chaudary Kalpana , Paneru Bandana , KC Sandip , Berger Ursula , Shrestha Archana
Published: December 2024

Background: Multimorbidity, defined as the coexistence of multiple chronic conditions within an individual, is increasingly recognized as a significant public health concern, particularly as populations age. While the prevalence of multimorbidity has been extensively studied in various global regions, there is limited data from Nepal. This study examines the burden and complexity of multimorbidity within the Dhulikhel Heart Study cohort in central Nepal.
Methods: We conducted a community-based cross-sectional study in Dhulikhel Municipality from July 2022 to June 2023, enrolling 1,608 participants aged 18 years and above. Data collection was performed through face-to-face interviews, and multimorbidity was defined as the presence of two or more chronic conditions. The conditions assessed included hypertension, diabetes, obesity, depression, kidney diseases, and several cardiovascular and respiratory disorders, among others. Sociodemographic and health-related behavioral variables were also analyzed.
Results: The overall prevalence of multimorbidity in the study population was 26.6%, with 27.0% among females and 26.0% among males. The prevalence of one, two, and three or more chronic conditions was 31.7%, 18.0%, and 8.6%, respectively. The odds of multimorbidity increased significantly with age (p-trend < 0.001). Compared to the 18-29 age group, the odds were 1.82 times higher for ages 30-39 (95% CI: 1.02 - 3.22), 4.27 times higher for ages 40-49 (95% CI: 2.38 - 7.64), 4.48 times higher for ages 50-59 (95% CI: 2.46 - 8.14), 6.68 times higher for ages 60-69 (95% CI: 3.60 - 12.40), and 7.01 times higher for those 70 years and older (95% CI: 3.62 - 13.57). Newar ethnicity had 1.70 times higher odds of multimorbidity (95% CI: 1.28 - 2.26, p < 0.001), and 'Other' ethnic groups (Dalit and Janajati) had 1.48 times higher odds (95% CI: 1.07 - 2.06, p = 0.016). Low physical activity was associated with 1.68 times higher odds of multimorbidity (95% CI: 1.28 - 2.21, p < 0.001).
Conclusion: The findings underscore the significant burden of multimorbidity in central Nepal, particularly among older adults. This highlights the need for targeted public health interventions and healthcare strategies to manage multimorbidity effectively, particularly as the population ages. The study provides critical insights into the epidemiology of multimorbidity in Nepal, which could inform future health policy and resource allocation.
Near-Infrared Long Lifetime Upconversion Nanoparticles for Ultrasensitive microRNA Detection via Time-Gated Luminescence Resonance Energy Transfer
Authors: Lee Joonseok , Kim Suyeon , Park Yeonkyung , Han Jiwoo , Kim Hansol , Jang Hyowon , Lee Min-Young , Jeong Byeong-Ho , Byun Yuree , Lim Eun-Kyung , Jung Juyeon , Kang Taejoon
Published: December 2024

Although upconversion nanoparticle (UCNP)-based luminescence resonance energy transfer (LRET) biosensing offers advantages such as wash-free detection and precise biomolecule quantification, there is still room for enhancing its sensitivity by preventing continuous energy transfer in co-doped UCNPs during LRET. In this study, we report a time-gated LRET approach using near-infrared (NIR) long-lived luminescent UCNP donors (L-TG-LRET), achieving an 8-fold increase in luminescence lifetime without compromising emission intensity. The extended and slower energy migration and transfer pathway of the L-TG-LRET approach significantly enhances sensitivity by preventing rapid Tm3+ reactivation of UCNPs during LRET from Tm3+ ions (800 nm emission) to IRDye800 acceptors (650–850 nm absorption). The developed L-TG-LRET system was applied to the detection of microRNAs (miRNAs), providing 17.9-fold higher sensitivity than conventional steady-state methods. Furthermore, this method has been successfully employed to determine the miRNA expression levels in cancer cells, patient plasma, and exosomes, enabling the differentiation of patients with lung and breast cancers from healthy donors. Notably, this approach demonstrated enhanced sensing performance compared to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) for the detection of low levels of exosomal miRNAs. These results highlighted the potential of the L-TG-LRET system as a valuable tool for sensitive biomolecular detection in clinical diagnostics.
Scheithauer, Herbert/Bondü, Rebecca (2011). Amoklauf und School Shooting. Bedeutung, Hintergründe und Prävention. Göttingen: Vandenhoeck & Ruprecht. 121 S., 12,95 €
Authors: Merz Redaktion
Published: December 2024

Das Thema (Amok-)Lauf ist ein viel diskutiertes Phänomen mit hoher medialer Relevanz. Das Autorenwerk bietet einen umfassenden Überblick über Grundlagen, Hintergründe und Prävention von Amokläufen und School Shootings mit Berücksichtigung von wichtigen thematischen Verknüpfungen. Basis des Buches sind Forschungsergebnisse der Autorin und des Autors, allgemeine Forschung zu dieser Thematik und Präventions- und Interventionsansätze, die sich daraus ergeben haben. Dabei legen sie – beide sind im universitären Bereich der Psychologie tätig – großen Wert auf eine differenzierte Darstellung und Abgrenzung der Begriffe ‚Amok‘ und ‚School Shooting‘, damit die unterschiedlichen Hintergründe klar herausgestellt werden und die weitere Verwendung der Begriffe eindeutig ist. Bei der Erörterung der Bedeutung finden verschiedene Aspekte, wie beispielsweise Historie, Kultur und Subformen, Beachtung, damit ‚Amok‘ als Phänomen eine ganzheitliche Sicht erfährt.
Die Rolle von Vorbildern, Altersunterschiede und der Familienaspekt werden zusätzlich mit aufgenommen. Des Weiteren erläutern Scheithauer und Bondü Hintergründe dieser Taten sowohl mithilfe psychologischer und gesellschaftlicher Ansätze, als auch mit Bezugnahme auf geschlechtsspezifische und individuelle Aspekte. Präventionsansätze finden ebenfalls, prägnant beschrieben, ihren Platz im Buch. Dabei gehen die Autorin und der Autor auf direkte Ansätze, Umgang mit Folgen, Waffengesetzgebung und Bedeutung der Medien ein. Auf diese Weise wird ein fundiertes Bild über die Thematik vermittelt, das auf wissenschaftlichen Erkenntnissen, klaren Definitionen und aussagekräftigen Beispielen beruht. Tabellen und Grafiken verwenden Scheithauer und Bondü an den richtigen Stellen, damit die Leserinnen und Leser ein besseres Verständnis und informatives Hintergrundwissen bekommen.
Dieses Werk bietet Medienpädagoginnen und - pädagogen, wissenschaftlichen und praxisorientierten Fachkräften, Lehrerinnen und Lehrern als auch Psychologinnen und Psychologen einen aktuellen Überblick über den Wissensstand bezüglich Forschung, Theorie und Praxis dieser Thematik.
#10 – Sexualität & Medien Teil 1
Authors: Merz Redaktion , Beranek Angelika , Hoffmann Dagmar , Reißmann Wolfgang
Published: December 2024

Mit den Fachredakteur*innen der aktuellen merz ‚Sexualität und Medien‘, Prof. Dr. Angelika Beranek, Prof. Dr. Dagmar Hoffmann und Dr. Wolfgang Reißmann, sprechen wir über ihr Heft und die Arbeiten und Ideen dahinter.
Die merz 21-3 ‚Sexualität und Medien‘ beleuchtet die Vielfalt des Sexuellen und deren Medienpräsenz. Das Heft spiegelt die (traditionell) heterogenen Sichtweisen, mit denen auf den Zusammenhang von Medien und Sexualität geblickt wird. Darüber hinaus sollen mit dieser Ausgabe hilfreiche Impulse für die medienpädagogische Praxis aus der Wissenschaft und selektiv Orientierungswissen bereitgestellt werden.
Irion, T., Böttinger, T. & Kammerl, R. (Hrsg.) (2023). Professionalisierung für digitale Bildung im Grundschulalter. Ergebnisse des Forschungsprojekts P3 DiG. Waxmann. 268 S., 34,90 €
Authors: Stengl Katharina
Published: December 2024

Die Smartphone- und Internetnutzung ist nur eines von vielen Merkmalen anhand dessen abzulesen ist, wie eng verbunden unser Alltag mit digitalen Technologien ist. Dies wirkt sich auch auf das Aufwachsen in unserer Gesellschaft aus. Es entstehen neue Fragestellungen für die formale und non-formale Bildung. Schulische Konzepte zur Entwicklung eines kompetenten und bewussten Umgangs mit Medien müssen in Grundschulen ansetzen, da bereits in den Primarstufen die Basis zur weiteren Entwicklung entsteht. Der Sammelband thematisiert die digitale Grundbildung und Professionalisierung. Es wird versucht bestehende Diskussionsstränge der Thematik aufzugreifen und zu vertiefen. Genauer beschäftigt sich die Publikation mit der Frage der Professionalisierung von Grundschullehrkräften und pädagogischen Fachkräften für eine digitale Bildung im Grundschulalter und ist auf der Grundlage des BMBF-Projekts Primat des Pädagogischen in der Digitalen Grundbildung – Grundsatzfragen und Gelingensbedingungen in der Professionalisierung von pädagogischen Akteur*innen für Kinder im Grundschulalter (P³DiG) entstanden. Nach einer Einführung zur inhaltlichen Rahmung und Entstehung des Bandes, geht es im ersten Teil um Grundlagen der Professionalisierung für eine digitale Grundbildung. Anschließend werden im zweiten Teil die Ergebnisse des Projekts P³DiG präsentiert. Dazu zählen sowohl Professionalisierungsmodelle für eine digitale Grundbildung, als auch die Ergebnisse der im Projekt durchgeführten empirischen Untersuchungen zur digitalen Grundbildung im Grundschulalter. Insgesamt bietet der Band eine Ergänzung zum aktuellen Diskurs zur digitalen Grundbildung und kann als Grundlage für die Ausarbeitung von Professionalisierungskonzepten in Hochschulen, Seminaren und Weiterbildungseinrichtungen dienen. Außerdem liefert er wichtige Impulse für die weitere wissenschaftliche Auseinandersetzung mit der Thematik.
Irion, T., Böttinger, T. & Kammerl, R. (Hrsg.) (2023). Professionalisierung für digitale Bildung im Grundschulalter. Ergebnisse des Forschungsprojekts P3 DiG. Waxmann. 268 S., 34,90 €
Joos, Magdalena & Alberth, Lars (Hrsg.) (2022). Forschungsethik in der Kindheitsforschung. Beltz Juventa 191 S., 28,00 €.
Authors: Kapfenberger Maria
Published: December 2024

Forschung muss nicht nur Gütekriterien wie Objektivität, Reliabilität und Validität entsprechen, sondern ebenso forschungsethische Standards einhalten. Insbesondere bei der Forschung mit vulnerablen Gruppen ist ein ethisches Konzept von großer Bedeutung. Beispielsweise bei der Forschung mit Kindern muss den Forschenden bewusst sein, welche Auswirkungen eine Datenerhebung auf Kinder haben kann. Für Forschende ist es deshalb besonders wichtig, aktuelle Erkenntnisse zum Thema Forschungsethik im Blick zu haben. Magdalena Joos und Lars Alberth haben mit ihrer Veröffentlichung aus der Reihe Kindheiten ein Buch herausgegeben, in dem verschiedene wichtige und aktuelle Aspekte zum Thema Ethik besprochen werden. In dieser Reihe werden seit den 1990er-Jahren sozial- und kulturwissenschaftliche Betrachtungen auf Kinder vermittelt, differenziert und kritisch weiterentwickelt. Das Buch bietet einen Überblick über verschiedene Fragestellungen zur Forschungsethik in der Kindheitsforschung. Konkret geht es dabei um forschungsethische Reflexionen zu Ethnografien in der Kindheitsforschung, partizipative Forschung mit Kindern sowie darum, welche Rechte Kinder als die zu Erforschenden haben und was dabei beachtet werden muss. Auf 191 Seiten vermitteln die verschiedenen Autor*innen somit kompakt grundlegendes Wissen zum Thema Forschungsethik in der Kindheitsforschung. Durch darstellende Abbildungen und Studienausschnitte sowie Zitate und Bilder wird das Thema gut illustriert und dadurch greifbarer.
Joos, Magdalena & Alberth, Lars (Hrsg.) (2022). Forschungsethik in der Kindheitsforschung. Beltz Juventa 191 S., 28,00 €.