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Integrated transcriptome and single-cell sequencing analysis identify blood-pancreas shared lncRNA biomarkers in new-onset T2DM
Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is characterized by β-cell dysfunction and insulin resistance, yet the early molecular drivers remain elusive. This study set out with the aim of identifying blood-pancreas shared long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as potential systemic biomarkers in treatment-naïve patients with new-onset T2DM. We integrated transcriptome sequencing of peripheral blood from 8 T2DM patients and 8 controls with single-cell RNA sequencing (scRNA-seq) of pancreatic islets from an independent cohort. Differential expression analysis revealed 1,709 dysregulated lncRNAs in peripheral blood, of which 257 were identified as high-priority candidate through weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Further intersection with scRNA-seq data from 17 T2DM donors identified 157 β-cell-specific mRNAs co-expressed with 135 blood-derived lncRNAs. Functional enrichment analysis implicated these genes in chromatin remodeling, focal adhesion, and neurodegenerative pathways. Validation in an expanded cohort (85 T2DM vs. 85 controls) confirmed significant downregulation of ENST00000473095, MSTRG.90147.1 and ENST00000531992 in T2DM. The combined ROC-AUC value of these three lncRNAs was 0.73, which exceeds the AUCs of each individual lncRNA (0.61–0.64). Our findings tentatively suggest that blood-derived lncRNAs as early biomarkers reflecting β-cell stress and systemic dysregulation. These lncRNAs may potentially bridge peripheral blood biomarkers with tissue-specific pathophysiology in T2DM.
Incidence and prognostic factors of postoperative C5 palsy after cervical OPLL surgery: a nationwide prospective multicenter study
Using core components in process evaluation: Passport skills for life
Although school-based SEL programmes show robust effects in controlled studies, their real-world impact varies due to inconsistent implementation. Core components (CCs), the essential theory or evidence-based elements required to reliably produce intended effects, offer a framework to address this gap. A CC-informed approach can shift evaluation from whether a programme was delivered to how its active ingredients functioned in context and how well. We conducted a two-phase qualitative process evaluation of Passport: Skills for Life, integrating top-down and bottom-up evidence. Phase 1 involved systematic analysis of manuals, lesson plans, and resources to distil practice and instructional CCs. Phase 2 examined enactment via non-participant observations (n = 12) and semi-structured teacher interviews (n = 9) across four primary schools in North-West England. Data were analysed using deductive content and thematic analyses. We identified five practice and seven instructional CCs. Core practices—coping, self-awareness, and social awareness—were typically delivered, whereas more complex interpersonal skills (help-seeking/giving, relationship skills) were seldom observed. Instructionally, low-intensity formats (didactic talk, whole-class discussion, short written tasks) predominated, while high-engagement activities (role-plays, situation cards, Dragon’s Path) were often truncated or omitted. Delivery quality varied: facilitation sometimes built conceptual understanding, competence-building promoted rehearsal and modelling, yet disengaged practices weakened socio-emotional norms. Teacher warmth, responsiveness, and emotional literacy were pivotal; when present, SEL activities reinforced prosocial behaviours, but when absent, delivery narrowed to surface-level coverage. By linking programme theory with classroom enactment, this study shows how a CC-informed lens can reveal fidelity and quality of delivery patterns, offering a theory-aligned framework for scaling and sustaining school-based SEL.
Study on physico-mechanical properties and damage constitutive model of sandstone-like materials
Molecular evidence of recent hybridization between eastern and western populations of a whitefly species on cassava in the Democratic Republic of the Congo: A potential threat to the spread of cassava brown streak disease
Cassava mosaic disease (CMD) and cassava brown streak disease (CBSD) are two viral diseases that threaten cassava production in the East and Central African countries. These diseases are spread by members of the cryptic species complex of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci sensu lato, and/or through the propagation of infected stem cuttings. This study aims to i) identify the B. tabaci s.l. species colonizing cassava in the north of the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), ii) analyse their genetic diversity, and iii) examine how this diversity is geographically structured or influenced by invasions from neighbouring (eastern) countries with high CBSD prevalence. A comprehensive sampling survey was conducted across 43 sites from east to west in the DRC, spanning 1339 km. Both nuclear and mitochondrial markers were used to identify the species and study the genetic diversity and structuring of the populations. Three species of B. tabaci s.l. were found: B. tabaci SSA1-SG1 U SG2; B. tabaci SSA1-SG3, and B. tabaci SSA2 U SSA3. In the surveyed provinces, B. tabaci SSA1 SG1 U SG2 was the dominant species (94.91%). It was structured into two genetic clusters along the east-west transect, while B. tabaci SSA2 U SSA3 was restricted to the western provinces. The findings of this study confirm that B. tabaci SSA1-SG1 U SG2 is the most abundant and adapted species on cassava in the DRC. It is likely that this species is responsible for the spread of cassava virus diseases in the DRC. Furthermore, the results showed significant geographical structuring of B. tabaci SSA1-SG1 U SG2 populations, with potential movements of populations towards the west of the country. This highlights the increased risk of virus spread towards West Africa.
Effective and sustainable methylene blue removal from wastewater using palm kernel cake
Salidroside protects against high-altitude hypoxia-induced kidney injury via regulation of renal dopamine D1-like receptors
High-altitude hypoxia is a well-established risk factor for acute kidney injury (AKI), yet effective therapeutic options remain scarce. Salidroside, the primary active compound extracted from Rhodiola, has been reported to protect against hypoxia-induced damage in various organs. Here, we aimed to determine whether salidroside could alleviate kidney injury caused by acute high-altitude exposure and to investigate its underlying mechanisms. To this end, male Sprague-Dawley rats were exposed to hypobaric hypoxia simulating an altitude of 5000 meters and were treated with different doses of salidroside. Kidney injury biomarkers, including neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), and cystatin C (Cys-C), were measured in serum and urine. Histological analysis and protein expression levels of dopamine D1-like receptor (DRD1) and G protein-coupled receptor kinase 4 (GRK4) were also evaluated. In parallel, primary renal proximal tubular (RPT) cells from rats were cultured under hypoxic conditions to validate the findings in vitro, with additional groups receiving DRD1-targeting siRNA or the DRD1 agonist fenoldopam. Salidroside significantly reduced biomarker levels of kidney injury in vivo, preserved DRD1 expression, and inhibited GRK4 upregulation in a time- and dose-dependent manner. Likewise, in vitro treatment with salidroside enhanced cell viability and decreased apoptosis while restoring DRD1 levels and downregulating GRK4. Notably, the protective effects were abolished by DRD1 knockdown and enhanced by fenoldopam, indicating a DRD1-dependent mechanism. Molecular docking analysis further supported these results by demonstrating strong binding affinities between salidroside and both DRD1 and GRK4. Together, our findings suggest that salidroside attenuates hypoxia-induced renal injury through modulation of intrarenal dopamine signaling and highlight its potential as a preventive or therapeutic agent for individuals exposed to hypobaric hypoxia.
Ex vivo and computational investigation of corneal iontophoresis to enhance penetration of high-molecular-weight compounds: a study using albumin as a model molecule
Abstract Efficient ocular drug delivery remains a major challenge due to the strong barrier properties of the corneal epithelium and the rapid clearance of topically applied formulations. This limitation is particularly critical for hydrophilic and high-molecular-weight (HMW) therapeutics such as proteins and biologics. In this study, we investigated transcorneal iontophoresis as a strategy to enhance the delivery of HMW compounds using albumin (66 kDa) as a model macromolecule. Ex vivo rabbit corneas were exposed to iontophoretic currents ranging from 0.5 to 7 mA for clinically relevant conditions, while an extreme non-clinical current (500 mA) was included as a destructive positive control to model irreversible tissue disruption. Albumin permeation was quantified by intrinsic fluorescence spectroscopy, and corneal structural responses were assessed using Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. In parallel, computational thermal modeling based on the Pennes bioheat equation was employed to evaluate current-dependent Joule heating and thermal safety margins. Results demonstrated that iontophoresis significantly enhanced albumin transport compared with passive diffusion, with increased permeation at higher currents, particularly at 6–7 mA. Thermal simulations indicated that currents ≤ 2 mA maintained corneal surface temperature within the normal physiological range (32–36 °C), while currents ≥ 3 mA progressively increased corneal temperature, approaching established thermal stress thresholds depending on exposure time. FTIR analysis revealed current-dependent spectral alterations consistent with changes in hydration dynamics, protein conformational environment, and lipid organization, suggesting reversible molecular adaptation at low-to-moderate currents and pronounced disruption at extreme electrical exposure. Collectively, this study identifies a practical current-time operational window for transcorneal iontophoresis that enhances macromolecular transport while maintaining corneal thermal and molecular integrity, supporting its potential for non-invasive ocular delivery of biologic therapeutics.
Exploring synchronous, asynchronous, and conventional online courses in higher education
Online learning has expanded substantially in recent years, yet comparatively little is known about how different online modalities influence learners’ perceptions and their intention to continue learning. This study compared three predominant online learning modalities—synchronous (Syn), asynchronous (Asyn), and conventional online courses (COC)—using an extended Information Systems Success Model (ISSM) integrating system quality (SQ), information quality (IQ), teaching presence (TP), self-efficacy (SE), perceived usefulness (PU), learning satisfaction (LS), and continuance intention (CI). The study addressed two questions: (1) how the latent means of ISSM constructs differ across Syn, Asyn, and COC, and (2) whether the structural paths among these variables differ across modalities. Survey data from 795 undergraduate students in South Korea were analyzed using latent mean analysis and multi-group structural equation modelling. Results showed that COC consistently demonstrated higher latent mean values than Syn and Asyn, underscoring the benefit of systematically designed courses. Multi-group analysis further revealed significant modality-specific variations, with relationships such as IQ → LS and PU → CI being strongest in the COC model. Overall, the findings indicate that Syn, Asyn, and COC engage ISSM mechanisms in distinct ways, highlighting the importance of modality-sensitive instructional and system design. These insights provide evidence-based guidance for enhancing the quality, satisfaction, and sustainability of online learning environments.
Analyzing fourteen deleterious nsSNPs of CFTR as promising genetic markers for cancer prognosis
BAAR: A framework for blockchain-based anonymous and revocable user authentication scheme
Blockchain-based systems increasingly require authentication mechanisms that simultaneously preserve user privacy, support accountability, and enable efficient credential revocation. However, most existing anonymous authentication schemes rely on pairing-based cryptography which introduce high computational overhead and limit deploy ability on widely adopted blockchain platforms such as Ethereum. This paper presents BAAR, a Blockchain-based Anonymous and Revocable authentication framework designed entirely within the discrete logarithm setting over the secp256k1 elliptic curve. BAAR integrates Pedersen vector commitments, Schnorr-based zero-knowledge proofs, and a Merkle-tree-based dynamic accumulator to support anonymous and unlinkable authentication with selective attribute disclosure and public, auditable revocation. Authentication and proof verification are performed off-chain, while the blockchain maintains only a compact revocation state, significantly reducing on-chain computation and gas costs. A formal security analysis demonstrates unforgeability, unlinkability, attribute privacy, and revocation soundness under standard cryptographic assumptions in the random oracle model. A prototype implementation on Ethereum confirms that BAAR achieves low gas consumption, logarithmic-time revocation, and scalable performance with respect to both the number of users and attributes. These results indicate that BAAR provides a practical balance between strong privacy guarantees and deploy ability, making it suitable for real-world blockchain-based identity and access-control systems.
Cognitive traits modulate the effects of images and familiarity on judgments of news accuracy
Chloroplast genome assembly, annotation, comparative genomics, and genetic diversity analysis of a vulnerable endemic species Lavandula maroccana Murb
Lavandula maroccana Murb., an endemic species of the western Mediterranean, is classified as vulnerable and was added to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List in 2020. We assembled and annotated the chloroplast genome and compared it with chloroplast genomes of five previously published Lavandula species. The assembled chloroplast genome of L. maroccana , spans 151,323 bp, and exhibits a typical quadripartite structure, consisting of an 82,861 bp large single-copy (LSC) region, a 17,452 bp small single-copy (SSC) region, and two 25,505 bp inverted repeat (IR) regions. The genome has a GC content of 38% and contains 110 unique genes, 37 tRNA genes, and 4 rRNA genes. A total of 37 perfect SSR motifs were identified, with most being mononucleotide repeats. Pentanucleotide and hexanucleotide repeats were absent as perfect motifs but were present as imperfect motifs at a lower frequency than other repeat types. AT-rich SSRs were more prevalent than GC-rich motifs. Palindromic and forward repeats were more frequent than complementary and reverse repeats. Nucleotide sequence diversity (Pi) values ranged from 0.004 ( atpH ) to 0.035 ( matK ), with protein-coding genes found to be under purifying selection. Phylogenomic analyses, based on the complete plastome sequences and the matK + trnL genes, revealed that intra- and inter-species diversity within Lavandula species. We compared the genomes, and their evolutionary relationships, and genetic structures with published chloroplast genomes from other species- L. maroccana , L. angustifolia , and L. dentata .
Prompt injection attacks on educational large language models for higher and vocational education
The impact of a non-functioning pituitary adenoma on life – A qualitative study of patients’ experiences
Purpose Most studies regarding quality of life in patients with non-functioning pituitary adenoma are based on general questionnaires that might not capture disease-specific aspects, making further exploration of patients’ experiences with non-functioning pituitary adenoma necessary. This study aimed to describe how patients that have undergone surgery due to non-functioning pituitary adenoma experience the effects of the disease on their life. Methods Semi-structured interviews were held with eight participants who had undergone surgery due to non-functioning pituitary adenoma. Participants were recruited from an outpatient endocrinology clinic at a tertiary hospital in Sweden. Inductive qualitative content analysis was used. Results The analysis identified an overarching theme, Life has changed but not necessarily for the worse , and three subthemes: The knowledge about the tumour evoked existential concerns , Suffering became a part of life and Finding comfort in a new everyday life. Conclusion The findings show that the participants’ lives have changed due to non-functioning pituitary adenoma. While this change was not always for the worse, the quality of life was negatively impacted for some, despite optimal treatment. A changed view on life and general trust in the healthcare system could temper the impact of non-functioning pituitary adenoma. Moreover, communication between healthcare professionals and patients remains a central aspect of patients’ experiences.
Immune-inflammatory profiles are associated with exercise capacity and psychological status in hospitalized patients with acute exacerbation of COPD
Real-time vectorcardiography simulator system
Vectorcardiography provides a spatial orientation and magnitude of the electrical activity of the heart, but its complexity and lack of interactive resources have limited its application in medical and bioengineering education. To bridge this pedagogical gap, we developed a low-cost, real-time vectorcardiography simulator integrating a physical wet-lab interface and digital signal processing. The hardware setup consists of a conductive medium and electrodes, enabling users to manually simulate a cardiac vector and observe the resultant electrophysiological signal consequences in real time. The system was validated through three complementary methods: theoretical conformity analysis, emulation of real ECG data from database, and user-driven waveform generation tests. A pilot study with medical students and instructors provided empirical evidence of the educational value of the device, indicating that the active, hands-on nature of the system might foster deeper cognitive engagement and facilitates the integration of complex electrophysiological concepts. By providing open-source software and cost-effective hardware, this simulator offers a scalable solution to enhance cardiac electrophysiology education and promote the broader adoption of VCG in clinical practice.
A deep learning-based IoT malware detection approach for electric vehicle charging stations
Barriers and facilitators in physical activity among youth with cerebral palsy in Sweden: A qualitative study
Limitations to full social participation in physical activity—both during leisure time and in physical education—persist among young individuals with cerebral palsy. This study explores the experiences of physical education and physical leisure activities among youth with cerebral palsy living in Sweden. It examines how these youths navigate contextual barriers and facilitators to participation, focusing on norms of function and gender. Individual interviews with 13 youth, aged 15–18 years, were analysed using Qualitative Content Analysis resulting in a main theme: Being in a continuum between exclusion and empowerment, with three categories: 1) Excluded and denied of support; 2) Resisting prejudice and discrimination; and 3) Empowered, with appropriate support. Most participants had experienced not being given equal opportunity in particularly in physical education but also in leisure activities and had encountered limiting norms and preconceptions based on gender and function. The findings indicate that norm-consciousness, respect and involvement in decision-making are key for participation and empowerment.