bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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

Abstract

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.
#52 – Social Media in der Beratung Teil 2
Authors: Merz Redaktion , Boldt Carolin 
Published: December 2024

Unsere Reihe zu Social Media in der Beratung geht weiter mit Carolin Boldt, die als digitale Beraterin bei juuuport tätig ist. juuuport bietet Jugendlichen Hilfe bei Cybermobbing, WhatsApp-Stress & Co. Wir sprechen mit Carolin vor allem über ihre Arbeit, aber auch über die Probleme, die Jugendliche im Netz haben und mit denen sie zur Beratung bei juuuport kommen.
https://www.juuuport.de/beratung/