bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Towards Economic Sustainability: A Comprehensive Review of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning Techniques in Improving the Accuracy of Stock Market Movements
Authors: Rezaei Atoosa , Abdellatif Iheb , Umar Amjad
Published: February 2025

Accurately predicting stock market movements remains a critical challenge in finance, driven by the increasing role of algorithmic trading and the centrality of financial markets in economic sustainability. This study examines the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) technologies to address gaps in identifying predictive factors, integrating diverse data sources, and optimizing methodologies. Employing a systematic review, recent advancements in ML techniques like deep learning, ensemble methods, and neural networks are analyzed, alongside emerging data sources such as traders’ sentiment and real-time economic indicators. Results highlight the potential of unified datasets and adaptive models to enhance prediction accuracy while overcoming market volatility and data heterogeneity. The research underscores the necessity of integrating diverse predictive factors, innovative data sources, and advanced ML techniques to develop robust and adaptable forecasting frameworks. These findings offer valuable insights for academics and financial professionals, paving the way for more reliable and real-time predictive models that can enhance decision-making in dynamic market environments. This study contributes to advancing economic sustainability by proposing methodologies that align with the complexities and rapid evolution of modern financial markets.
Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinases 3/6 Reduce Auxin Signaling via Stabilizing Indoleacetic Acid-Induced Proteins 8/9 in Plant Abiotic Stress Adaptation
Authors: Wang Chunyan , Li Xiaoxuan , Zhao Han , Cui Xiankui , Xu Wenhong , Li Ke , Xu Yang , Yu Zipeng , Yu Luyao , Guo Rui
Published: February 2025

The balance between plant growth and stress response is a key issue in the field of biology. In this process, mitogen-activated protein kinase 3 (MPK3) and MPK6 contribute to the construction of plants’ defense system during stress tolerance, while auxin, a growth-promoting hormone, is the key to maintaining plant growth. Nevertheless, the antagonistic or cooperative relationship between MPK3/6-mediated stress response and auxin-mediated plant growth remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that stress-activated MPK3/6 interact with the auxin signaling repressors indoleacetic acid-induced protein 8 (IAA8) and IAA9, two key targets for regulating the auxin signaling output during stress responses. Protein phosphorylation mass spectrometry followed by a co-analysis with in vitro phosphorylation experiments revealed that MPK3/6 phosphorylated the S91, T94, and S152 residues of IAA8 and the S88 residue of IAA9. Phosphorylation significantly enhanced the protein stability of IAA8/9, thereby maintaining basal auxin signaling during plant stress adaptation. Collectively, MPK3/6-IAA8/9 are key modules that are turned on during plant stress adaptation to precisely reduce auxin signaling output, thereby preventing plants from improper vigorous growth under stress conditions.
Recent Advances on the Role of B Vitamins in Cancer Prevention and Progression
Authors: Frost Zachary , Bakhit Sandra , Amaefuna Chelsea N. , Powers Ryan V. , Ramana Kota V.
Published: February 2025

Water-soluble B vitamins, mainly obtained through dietary intake of fruits, vegetables, grains, and dairy products, act as co-factors in various biochemical processes, including DNA synthesis, repair, methylation, and energy metabolism. These vitamins include B1 (Thiamine), B2 (Riboflavin), B3 (Niacin), B5 (Pantothenic Acid), B6 (Pyridoxine), B7 (Biotin), B9 (Folate), and B12 (Cobalamin). Recent studies have shown that besides their fundamental physiological roles, B vitamins influence oncogenic metabolic pathways, including glycolysis (Warburg effect), mitochondrial function, and nucleotide biosynthesis. Although deficiencies in these vitamins are associated with several complications, emerging evidence suggests that excessive intake of specific B vitamins may also contribute to cancer progression and interfere with therapy due to impaired metabolic and genetic functions. This review discusses the tumor-suppressive and tumor-progressive roles of B vitamins in cancer. It also explores the recent evidence on a comprehensive understanding of the relationship between B vitamin metabolism and cancer progression and underscores the need for further research to determine the optimal balance of B vitamin intake for cancer prevention and therapy.
Special Issue “Neuromodulatory Effects of Serotonin”
Authors: Akay Yasemin M.
Published: February 2025

Serotonin in the nervous system is synthesized from tryptophan by a small number of neurons within the central nervous system [...]
A Novel Pathogenic Variant of DICER1 Gene in a Young Greek Patient with 2 Different Sex-Cord Ovarian Tumors and Multinodular Goiter
Authors: Roumpou Afroditi , Ieronimaki Argyro-Ioanna , Manta Aspasia , Panayiotides Ioannis G. , Stratakis Constantine A. , Kalantaridou Sophia , Peppa Melpomeni
Published: February 2025

DICER1 syndrome (DICERs) represents a tumor predisposition genetic syndrome, inherited in an autosomal dominant manner. Germline loss-of-function variants of the DICER1 gene lead to impaired processing of microRNA, gene expression, and increased risk of tumorigenesis. Although pleuropulmonary blastoma (PPB) is the hallmark of the syndrome, multiple extrapulmonary malignant and non-malignant conditions have also been described, including multinodular goiter (MNG) and sex-cord stromal tumors. MNG is one of the most common components and is associated with an increased risk of thyroid carcinoma. Sertoli–Leydig cell tumor (SLCT) represents the most prevalent type of sex-cord stromal tumor associated with the syndrome, whereas juvenile granulosa cell tumor (JGCT) is considered to be a very rare phenotype. They both may present with abdominal pain due to mass effect and menstrual irregularities in case of hormone production. Although they exhibit low rates of mortality, recurrence rates highly depend on the grade of malignancy. Herein, we report a novel pathogenic DICER1 variant associated with MNG, bilateral ovarian SLCT, and JGCT in a young Greek patient. Clinicians should be aware of a potential germline DICER1 variant when evaluating MNG in young patients, especially if it coexists with other neoplasms.
Temporal Transcriptomic Analysis of Periodontal Disease Progression and Its Molecular Links to Systemic Diseases
Authors: Nantakeeratipat Teerachate , Fujihara Chiharu , Takedachi Masahide
Published: February 2025

Periodontal disease, a prevalent oral inflammatory condition, is implicated in exacerbating systemic diseases. However, the molecular mechanisms underlying this association remain unclear. In this study, we performed RNA sequencing of gingival tissue samples collected from a mouse model of periodontal disease at multiple time points to investigate dynamic transcriptomic changes during disease progression. Our analysis revealed distinct temporal gene expression patterns associated with the key inflammatory and immune response pathways. These findings suggest stepwise molecular progression in the periodontal inflammatory process, potentially contributing to systemic inflammation through shared signaling networks. We further identified specific genes and pathways that may mediate the bidirectional relationship between periodontal disease and systemic conditions such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. By elucidating the temporal dynamics of molecular changes in periodontal disease, this study provides insights into the pathogenesis and its systemic implications. It identifies potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for local and systemic disease management.
Drug-Induced Liver Injury—Pharmacological Spectrum Among Children
Authors: Maris Bianca Raluca , Grama Alina , Pop Tudor Lucian
Published: February 2025

Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) is one of the main causes of acute liver failure in children. Its incidence is probably underestimated, as specific diagnostic tools are currently lacking. Over 1000 known drugs cause DILI, and the list is expanding. The aim of this review is to describe DILI pathogenesis and emphasize the drugs accountable for child DILI in order to aid its recognition. Intrinsic DILI is well described in terms of mechanism, incriminated drugs, and toxic dose. Conversely, idiosyncratic DILI (iDILI) is unpredictable, occurring as a result of a particular response to drug administration, and its occurrence cannot be foreseen in clinical studies. Half of pediatric iDILI cases are linked to antibiotics, mostly amoxicillin–clavulanate, in the immune-allergic group, while autoimmune DILI is the hallmark of minocycline and nitrofurantoin. Secondly, antiepileptics are responsible for 20% of pediatric iDILI cases, children being more prone to iDILI caused by these agents than adults. A similar tendency was observed in anti-tuberculosis drugs, higher incidences being reported in children below three years old. Current data show growing cases of iDILI related to antineoplastic agents, atomoxetine, and albendazole, so that it is advisable for clinicians to maintain a high index of suspicion regarding iDILI.
Caenorhabditis elegans as a Model to Assess the Potential Risk to Human Health Associated with the Use of Bisphenol A and Its Substitutes
Authors: Kaiglová Alžbeta , Bárdyová Zuzana , Hockicková Patrícia , Zvolenská Aneta , Melnikov Kamila , Kucharíková Soňa
Published: February 2025

Given its simplicity, Caenorhabditis elegans appears to be a promising model for future research on endocrine disruptors, including bisphenol A and its supposedly safer alternatives. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of embryonic exposure of C. elegans to different concentrations (0.5, 1.0, and 5 µM) of bisphenol A and its analogs (bisphenol S, bisphenol F, and bisphenol AF) on selected biological characteristics of the nematode C. elegans and to compare them with an unexposed control group. Embryonal exposure of C. elegans to bisphenol A, as well as bisphenol S, F, and AF at concentrations of 0.5, 1.0, and 5 µM resulted in a significant influence on the percentage of hatched eggs and habituation to anterior stimuli (with significant results ranging from p ≤ 0.05 to p ≤ 0.001). The growth of C. elegans was also significantly impaired by bisphenol A, S, and AF in some concentrations (with p-values ranging from p ≤ 0.05 to p ≤ 0.001). Our findings confirm prior research that bisphenol A and its supposedly safer analogs exert a detrimental effect on diverse biological processes. Therefore, bisphenol A analogs should be employed with caution, particularly until a comprehensive risk assessment has been conducted.
Does Early Diagnosis and Treatment Alter the Clinical Course of Wolman Disease? Divergent Trajectories in Two Siblings and a Consideration for Newborn Screening
Authors: de Castro Lopez Maria Jose , White Fiona J. , Holmes Victoria , Roberts Jane , Wu Teresa H. Y. , Cooper James A. , Church Heather J. , Petts Gemma , Wynn Robert F. , Jones Simon A. , Ghosh Arunabha
Published: February 2025

Wolman disease (WD) is a lethal disorder defined by the deficiency of the lysosomal acid lipase enzyme. Patients present with intestinal failure, malnutrition, and hepatosplenomegaly. Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with dietary substrate reduction (DSR) significantly improves survival. We sought to determine the outcomes of two siblings with WD treated after the onset of symptoms (sibling 1) and presymptomatic (sibling 2). A chart review was conducted on two siblings with WD treated with ERT and DSR at 4 months of age (sibling 1) and immediately after birth (sibling 2) to determine clinical outcomes based on survival, laboratory results, growth, dietary records, and gut biopsies. Sibling 1 presented with hepatosplenomegaly and liver dysfunction and developed hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis despite treatment. She received a bone marrow transplant at 8 months of age but died at 13 months. Sibling 2 is alive at 16 months of age with height, weight, and MUAC above the 95th centile, fully orally fed, with no gastrointestinal symptoms, normal liver function, and normal oxysterols. Sibling 2 duodenal biopsies show normal villus architecture with no foamy macrophage infiltration. Initiation of treatment prior to the onset of symptoms can prevent clinical manifestations and increase survival. The divergent trajectory in these siblings raises the question of WD’s candidacy for newborn screening.
Fabrication and Characterization of 3D-Printed Porous Structures Based on Walstromite-Type Silicate Ceramics
Authors: Caramarin Ștefania , Licu Lidia , Ioniță Florentina-Gabriela , Ghiță Andreea-Nicoleta , Drăguț Dumitru-Valentin , Ioța Miruna-Adriana , Cursaru Laura-Mădălina
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the additive manufacturing of 3D porous scaffolds based on walstromite-type silicate ceramics for bone tissue engineering applications. Walstromite powders were synthesized using the sol-gel method and printed using extrusion-based 3D printing. Both sintered and unsintered scaffolds were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-Ray diffraction (XRD) and energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses to evaluate the effects of sintering on microstructure, porosity, and mechanical properties. Results indicate that the unsintered scaffolds exhibited significantly higher compressive strength due to the presence of organic binders, whereas the sintered scaffolds demonstrated enhanced porosity, facilitating cell infiltration and nutrient flow. Therefore, the sintering process reduced compressive strength, probably due to the loss of organic compounds and increased porosity. These findings underline the need for optimizing sintering parameters to balance mechanical integrity and porosity, ensuring that the scaffolds meet the mechanical and biological requirements for bone regeneration. Alternative sintering methods, such as microwave sintering, are also suggested for future research to minimize the mechanical degradation observed post-sintering.
Dietary Protein Levels in Isoenergetic Diets Affect the Performance, Nutrient Utilization and Retention of Nitrogen and Amino Acids of Hermetia illucens (L.) (Diptera: Stratiomyidae) Larvae
Authors: Schneider Laura , Kisinga Benson , Stoehr Nathalie , Cord-Landwehr Stefan , Schulte-Geldermann Elmar , Moerschbacher Bruno M. , Eder Klaus , Jha Rajesh , Dusel Georg
Published: February 2025

Black soldier fly, H. illucens larvae, efficiently convert low-value organic substrates into high-value products, offering solutions to global challenges in sustainable food production and biotechnology. This study investigated the impact of dietary protein levels (10%, 14%, 16%, and 20% crude protein, CP) on BSFL growth, nutrient utilization, and energy retention using isoenergetic diets (18.5 ± 0.3 MJ/kg dry matter) under commercial-scale conditions. Larvae were harvested after 8 days of feeding, with 5 replicates per treatment. Optimal growth performance and feed conversion ratios were observed in larvae fed 14% CP diet, with a quadratic relationship between dietary CP and biomass gain (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.870). Ash and calcium deposition peaked in CP20-fed larvae and were lowest in CP14-fed larvae. Phosphorus and glucosamine deposition remained unaffected, while chitin deposition correlated positively with larval weight. Nitrogen and amino acid retention were highest in CP14-fed larvae but reduced in CP20-fed larvae (p < 0.001, R2 = 0.573–0.902). CP10-fed larvae showed impaired growth and nitrogen deposition but increased fat deposition. These findings establish the CP14 diet as the optimal formulation for scalable BSFL production, providing critical insights into dietary protein effects on BSFL physiology and enabling the development of efficient feeding strategies for industrial-scale farming.
Rheumatoid Factor: Diagnostic and Prognostic Performance and Therapeutic Implications in Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Togashi Tasuku , Ishihara Ryuhei , Watanabe Ryu , Shiomi Mayu , Yano Yuya , Fujisawa Yuhei , Katsushima Masao , Fukumoto Kazuo , Yamada Shinsuke , Hashimoto Motomu
Published: February 2025

Rheumatoid factor (RF) is the first autoantibody identified in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) which targets the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region of immunoglobulin (Ig) G. Although IgM isotype is predominant, other Ig isotypes, including IgG and IgA, also exist. While RF is not specific to RA, it remains a valuable serological test for diagnosing the disease, as evidenced by its inclusion in the 2010 classification criteria for RA based on elevated serum RF levels. RF is also associated with RA severity, including joint damage and extra-articular manifestations, serving as a poor prognostic factor and aiding in the identification of difficult-to-treat RA. Recent studies have demonstrated that high serum RF levels are associated with a reduced response to tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. In contrast, anti-TNF antibodies lacking the Fc portion have shown stable efficacy in RA patients regardless of baseline RF levels. These findings reaffirm the clinical significance of RF measurement, 80 years after its initial discovery. This review explores the diagnostic and prognostic significance of RF and its impact on treatment selection in RA management.
Salvage Chemoradiotherapy for Loco-Regional Recurrence of Esophageal Squamous Cell Carcinoma After Esophagectomy
Authors: Katano Atsuto , Kiritoshi Tomoki , Sawayanagi Subaru , Yamashita Hideomi
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Loco-regional recurrence (LRR) of esophageal cancer following esophagectomy presents a significant therapeutic problem. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of salvage concurrent chemoradiotherapy (CCRT) and to identify the prognostic factors influencing the survival outcomes in patients with an LRR of esophageal cancer. Methods: This retrospective study included 68 patients who underwent salvage CCRT for an LRR of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma between April 2008 and June 2024. Patients were treated with either 50.4 Gy in 28 fractions or 60 Gy in 30 fractions, along with concurrent fluoropyrimidine- and platinum-based chemotherapy. Prognostic factors were identified using univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards models. Results: The median overall survival (OS) was 30.1 months (95% confidence interval [CI]: 21.5–110.7 months), with a 2-year OS rate of 57.4%. The median progression-free survival (PFS) was 8.9 months (95% CI: 6.3–17.7 months). In the multivariate analysis, the significant prognostic factors for OS included the interval to recurrence (>1 year vs. ≤1 year, hazard ratio [HR] = 2.307, p = 0.024) and radiotherapy dose (60 Gy vs. 50.4 Gy, HR = 2.414, p = 0.040). For PFS, the interval to recurrence and radiotherapy dose remained significant predictors (p < 0.05). The 2-year OS rate was higher in the 60 Gy arm (62.7% vs. 42.0%, p = 0.285) and in patients with recurrence occurring >1 year after surgery (73.4% vs. 29.9%, p = 0.0054). The local control rate at 2 years was 71.9%, with better outcomes observed in the 60 Gy arm (93.5% vs. 76.5%, p = 0.0651). Conclusions: Salvage CCRT is a viable treatment option for LRR of esophageal cancer, achieving favorable survival outcomes, particularly in patients with late recurrence (>1 year) and in those receiving higher radiotherapy doses.
Presence of Pain Shows Greater Effect than Tendon Structural Alignment During Landing Dynamics
Authors: Ortega-Cebrián Silvia , Silva Diogo C. F. , Carneiro Daniela F. , Zárate Victor , Alves Leonel A. T. , Guedes Diana C. , Zárate-Tejero Carlos A. , Cadellans-Arróniz Aïda , Montes António Mesquita
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Eccentric loading during landing is considered a key factor in the development of patellar tendinopathy and is associated with stiff landings and patellar tendinopathy. This study aims to investigate the relationship between tendon structure, presence of pain, and sex differences in landing kinematics and kinetics during countermovement jumps (CMJ) and tuck jump tests (TJT) in professional volleyball players. Methods: Professional volleyball players aged 18 to 30 years old (14 females and 25 males) participated in a cross-sectional study. Data included the Victorian Institute of Sport Assessment Patellar Tendon (VISA-P) questionnaire; patellar tendon ultrasound characterization tissue (UTC) scans, in order to identify groups with misaligned tendon fibers (MTF) or aligned tendon fibers (ATF); and biomechanical assessments for CMJ and TJT. The joint angle (JA) at the lower limb was measured at peak ground reaction force (peak_vGRF) and maximal knee flexion (max_KF). A general linear model was used to evaluate joint JA differences between tendon alignment, pain, and sex variables. Sample t-tests compared peak_vGRF, load time, load rate, and area based on tendon alignment, pain presence, sex, and jump. The statistical significance of p-value is >0.05, and the effect size (ES) was also calculated. Results: The MTF group revealed decreased knee JA during TJT at peak_vGRF (p = 0.01; ES = −0.66) and max_KF (p = 0.02; ES = −0.23). The presence of pain was associated with increased JA during the CMJ, particularly at peak_vGRF and max_KF for trunk, hip, and ankle joints. Females showed decreased peak_vGRF than males. Landing with misaligned tendon fibers showed longer load times compared to aligned tendon fibers (p = 0.021; ES = −0.80). The TJT exhibited a greater load rate than the CMJ (p = 0.00; ES = −0.62). Conclusions: Pain is a critical factor influencing greater JA during landing, particularly at the trunk, hip, and ankle joints in CMJ. Misaligned tendon fibers compromise landing dynamics by increasing trunk JA during TJT. Kinetics varied significantly by sex and jump type, while pain and tendon structure revealed limited differences.
Sowing, Monitoring, Detecting: A Possible Solution to Improve the Visibility of Cropmarks in Cultivated Fields
Authors: Materazzi Filippo
Published: February 2025

This study explores the integration of UAS-based multispectral remote sensing and targeted agricultural practises to improve cropmark detection in buried archaeological contexts. The research focuses on the Vignale plateau, part of the pre-Roman city of Falerii (Viterbo, Italy), where traditional remote sensing methods face challenges due to complex environmental and archaeological conditions. As part of the Falerii Project at Sapienza Università di Roma, a field was cultivated with barley (Hordeum vulgare L.), selected for its characteristics, enabling a controlled experiment to maximise cropmark visibility. The project employed high-density sowing, natural cultivation practises, and monitoring through a weather station and multispectral imaging to observe crop growth and detect anomalies. The results demonstrated enhanced crop uniformity, facilitating the identification and differentiation of cropmarks. Environmental factors, particularly rainfall and temperature, were shown to significantly influence crop development and cropmark formation. This interdisciplinary approach also engaged local stakeholders, including students from the Istituto Agrario Midossi, fostering educational opportunities and community involvement. The study highlights how tailored agricultural strategies, combined with advanced remote sensing technologies, can significantly improve the precision and efficiency of non-invasive archaeological investigations. These findings suggest potential developments for refining the methodology, offering a sustainable and integrative model for future research.
Real-Time Stringing Detection for Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Charia Oumaima , Rajani Hayat , Ferrer Real Inés , Domingo-Espin Miquel , Gracias Nuno
Published: February 2025

Additive Manufacturing (AM), commonly known as 3D printing, has gained significant traction across various industries due to its versatility and customization potential. However, the process remains time-consuming, with print durations ranging from hours to days depending on the complexity and size of the object. In many cases, errors occur due to object misalignment, material stringing due to nozzle overflow, and filament blockages, which can lead to complete print failures. Such errors often go undetected for extended periods, resulting in substantial losses of time and material. This study explores the implementation of traditional computer vision, image processing, and machine learning techniques to enable real-time error detection, specifically focusing on stringing-related anomalies. To address data scarcity in training machine learning models, we also release a new dataset and improve upon the results achieved by the Obico server model, one of the most prominent tools for stringing detection. Our contributions aim to enhance process reliability, reduce material wastage, and optimize time efficiency in AM workflows.
Characterisation of Alternaria alternata Allergoids: Evaluation of the Stability of Grass Pollen Allergen Extracts Mixed with Alternaria alternata Allergoids
Authors: Abel-Fernández Eva , Fernández-Caldas Enrique , Iborra Salvador
Published: February 2025

Allergens from pollen, mites, and moulds often sensitise patients simultaneously, posing challenges for developing stable and effective combination vaccines. Alternaria alternata, a major source of indoor and outdoor allergens, is strongly linked to asthma development and contains proteolytic enzymes that can degrade other allergens, potentially reducing vaccine efficacy. This study aimed to evaluate the safety, efficacy, and stability of polymerised A. alternata extracts (allergoids) compared to native extracts and their compatibility with pollen extracts (Phleum pratense). Allergoids were prepared using glutaraldehyde and characterised through SDS-PAGE, LC-MS/MS, NMR, and gas chromatography. Their immunogenicity and IgE-binding properties were assessed via Western blot and ELISA competition assays, while enzymatic activity was analysed using ApiZym kits. Mice immunisation experiments were conducted to evaluate antibody responses. Polymerised extracts exhibited reduced IgE-binding capacity while maintaining IgG-binding and immunogenicity. Mice immunised with allergoids generated antibodies that efficiently blocked IgE binding in allergic patients. Proteolytic activity was significantly reduced in allergoids, and pollen extracts remained stable when combined with them. These findings demonstrate that A. alternata allergoids are a safer, more stable alternative for immunotherapy, offering enhanced efficacy and reduced injections for polysensitised patients. This study provides critical insights for designing optimised combination vaccines.
Attracting the Vote on TikTok: Far-Right Parties’ Emotional Communication Strategies in the 2024 European Elections
Authors: Cartes-Barroso Manuel J. , García-Estévez Noelia , Méndez-Muros Sandra
Published: February 2025

This study analyses the emotional communication strategies employed by far-right party leaders on TikTok during the 2024 European elections, focusing on their appeal to voters. Combining quantitative and qualitative content analysis of 472 videos from 27 leaders in 24 countries, the research examines the dominant emotions, themes, stylistic resources, and their impact on engagement. The results reveal a dual strategy that combines positive emotions such as hope and ambition, which generate the highest levels of engagement, with negative emotions such as fear and uncertainty, which emphasise crisis narratives. Leaders who balance optimism with polarising narratives show greater resonance, particularly with audiences. The findings underscore the growing role of TikTok in far-right political communication and demonstrate its effectiveness in mobilising emotional engagement among young people. Despite limitations, the study highlights the sophistication of emotional strategies in digital political communication and provides insights into how far-right leaders use TikTok to influence voter behaviour.
The Influence of a Specialized Dementia Ward on the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease Patients
Authors: Yang Youngsoon , Huh Kyoon , Kwak Yong Tae
Published: February 2025

Background: Hospitalization for severe neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer’s disease (AD) presents challenges, often requiring environments that ensure safety while addressing therapeutic needs. Traditional closed wards, originally designed for psychiatric conditions like schizophrenia, may not fully address the unique needs of AD patients. This study evaluates the effectiveness of a Specialized Dementia Ward (SDW) tailored for AD patients compared to a General Ward (GW). Methods: A retrospective study compared 51 AD patients in an SDW (February 2018–January 2019) and 40 AD patients in a GW (December 2017–January 2018). Patients met NINCDS-ADRDA criteria, with a Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) ≤ 2 and a Korean Mini-Mental State Examination (K-MMSE) ≤ 20. Clinical assessments at admission and four weeks included K-MMSE, Resident Assessment Instrument Minimum Data Set Version 2.0 (RAI-MDS), and Neuropsychiatric Inventory Questionnaire (NPI-Q). Psychotropic medication use, length of stay, and discharge destination were also analyzed. Results: No statistically significant differences emerged between SDW and GW groups regarding baseline demographics, cognitive function, ADL, or neuropsychiatric symptoms. At four weeks, both groups exhibited trends toward improved K-MMSE, RAI-MDS, and NPI-Q scores and reduced psychotropic usage, but these did not reach statistical significance. Although mean length of stay was shorter for SDW patients (3.2 vs. 4.9 months; p = 0.078), the difference was not significant. Notably, a significantly higher proportion of SDW patients were discharged home (58.8% vs. 37.5%; p = 0.049). Conclusions: Although clinical outcomes were comparable, the SDW demonstrated advantages in facilitating discharge to home, suggesting that tailored ward environments may better support AD patients. These findings underscore the importance of therapeutic environments in dementia care and highlight the need for further research on specialized dementia ward designs to improve outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Sex-Specific Associations Between Dynapenia and Risk of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: A Machine-Learning-Based Approach
Authors: Lee Gyumin , Kim Hye-Jin , Choi Heeji , Shin Seung-Ho , Kim Chulho , Lee Sang-Hwa , Sohn Jong-Hee , Lee Jae Jun
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Dynapenia, age-associated loss in muscle strength, is an emerging risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), which may have different effects depending on sex. This study aims to investigate the association between dynapenia and ASCVD risk, evaluate its predictive significance among traditional factors, and explore sex-specific patterns through machine learning models. Methods: This retrospective case–control study uses data from 19,582 participants aged 40–79 from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES). ASCVD risk is assessed using the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association 10-year risk algorithm, with dynapenia defined based on hand grip strength. Multivariable logistic regression and ML algorithms, including light gradient boosting (LGB) and XGBoost (XGB), are applied to examine predictive factors. Model performance is evaluated via the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC), and Shapley additive explanation (SHAP) analysis highlights variable importance. Results: Dynapenia prevalence is higher in women (33.4%) than men (13.9%) at high ASCVD risk. Logistic regression shows dynapenia is significantly associated with high ASCVD risk in women (odds ratio, 1.47; 95% confidence interval, 1.20–1.81) but not in men. Machine learning models demonstrate excellent predictive performance, with XGB achieving the highest AUROC (0.950 in men and 0.963 in women). The SHAP analysis identifies dynapenia as a critical risk factor in women, while body mass index, educational status, and household income are influential in both sexes. Conclusions: Dynapenia is a significant ASCVD risk factor in women, emphasizing sex-specific prevention strategies. Machine learning enhances risk assessment precision, underscoring muscle health’s role in cardiovascular care.
Forecasting Covered Call Exchange-Traded Funds (ETFs) Using Time Series, Machine Learning, and Deep Learning Models
Authors: Ngwaba Chigozie Andy
Published: February 2025

This study explores the application of time series, machine learning (ML), and deep learning (DL) models to predict the prices and performance of covered call ETFs. Utilizing historical data from major covered call ETFs like QYLD, XYLD, JEPI, JEPQ, and RYLD, the research assesses the predictive accuracy and reliability of different forecasting approaches. It compares traditional time series methods, including ARIMA and Heterogeneous Autoregressive Model (HAR), with advanced ML techniques such as Random Forests (RF) and Support Vector Regression (SVR), as well as DL models like Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN) and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). Model performance is evaluated using metrics such as Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Root Mean Square Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Akaike Information Criterion (AIC), and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC). Results indicate that the DL models are effective at identifying the nonlinear patterns and temporal dependencies in the price movements of covered call ETFs, outperforming both traditional time series and ML techniques. These findings enhance the existing financial forecasting literature and offer valuable insights for investors and portfolio managers aiming to improve their strategies using covered call ETFs.
Neighborhood Walkability and Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic Syndrome: A Narrative Review
Authors: Vieira de Oliveira Salerno Pedro Rafael , Gonzalez Alena , Hum Avery , Baur Ariela , Carpenter Colin , Bassiony Mohamed , Shah Vaibhav , Chen Zhuo , Dong Weichuan , Al-Kindi Sadeer
Published: February 2025

Cardio-Kidney-Metabolic (CKM) Syndrome is a complex systemic disorder characterized by interactions between metabolic risk factors such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), chronic kidney disease (CKD), and cardiovascular disease (CVD). These interactions contribute to multi-organ dysfunction and a heightened risk of cardiovascular complications. The American Heart Association (AHA) emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive approach to CKM management, incorporating social and environmental determinants of health (SEDH) to better understand disease progression and outcomes. Among these determinants, neighborhood walkability—the extent to which an area supports walking and physical activity—has emerged as a critical yet understudied factor influencing CKM health. This scoping review aims to synthesize the existing evidence on the relationship between neighborhood walkability and CKM outcomes, examining potential pathways, health disparities, and opportunities for targeted interventions.
Risk Assessment and Dynamic Monitoring of China’s Agricultural Investment in Countries Along the Belt and Road Under the Guidance of Cultivated Land Resources
Authors: Wang Yameng , Zhu Guanglu , Zhang Mingyue , Wang Songxiang , Han Yuxin , Ma Linyan
Published: February 2025

Establishing a sound agricultural investment risk measurement and dynamic monitoring mechanism is a key path to optimize the efficiency of agricultural capital allocation and ensure the stability of the global food supply chain. Based on the five dimensions of politics, economy, society, agricultural management, and bilateral diplomatic and economic relations with China, this paper constructs an index system to assess the risks of China’s agricultural investment in 49 countries along “the Belt and Road” and uses nuclear density analysis, a Markov chain, and other methods to analyze the spatio-temporal evolution characteristics of different risks during 1995–2022. A deep neural network model is constructed to monitor the investment risk dynamically. The research shows that China’s agricultural investment risk to most of the countries along the route (61.22%) is at a normal level, and risk in bilateral diplomatic and economic relations with China is the most critical influencing factor. The agricultural investment risk among countries along the route has a significant positive spatial correlation and dynamic infectivity and shows a trend of gradually transferring from high risk to low risk in the long run. Endowment of agricultural water resources, natural disasters, and other indicators have the greatest impact on the high risk. Unemployment status and communication level have the greatest influence on the low risk. Investment relationship and endowment of agricultural land resources have the least influence on different investment risk levels. On this basis, the paper puts forward some policy suggestions for expanding the investment scale and strengthening dynamic monitoring. This paper enriches the index system of China’s agricultural investment risk and provides a reference for other countries’ agricultural investment and regional economic belt construction.
The Urban Development Potential in Major Bay Areas: A Combined Hierarchical and Entropy-Based Evaluation
Authors: Zhang Liyuan , Jiang Yanpeng
Published: February 2025

The coastal regions of major bay areas—including San Francisco, Tokyo, New York, Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao, and Hangzhou—are important centers of economic and social growth due to their strategic location, resources, and dynamic economies. However, the significant development disparities between the central cities and surrounding areas, as well as the challenges of climate change, highlight the need for a comprehensive assessment of their development potential. The aim of this study is to find out which cities have the strongest development potential and what the main factors influencing the results are. To address this research question, we use a combination of the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Entropy Weight Method (EWM) to systematically assess the development potential of 63 cities in five bay area regions and explore the mechanisms that influence it. The principal component analysis (PCA) also examines the global networking and sustainability mechanisms. The results show that Shenzhen and Shanghai lead in development potential due to strong institutional frameworks and global connectivity, but significant imbalances remain in the bay areas. Key contributors to sustainability and connectivity include air passenger traffic, public libraries, and port handling, while traditional economic metrics such as GDP growth show limited impact. These findings underscore the importance of prioritizing urban livability, resource circulation, and infrastructure over traditional economic indicators for sustainability and provide actionable insights for policy makers to promote balanced and sustainable development in bay area cities.
Efficacy of Phlai (Zingiber montanum) Spray Cool Formula in Managing Upper Trapezius Myofascial Pain Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Tunit Prakairat , Mahama Nurmee , Mina Nursawiyah , Chi Nasrin , Maenpuen Suwanna , Sawangwong Pornchai , Hemtong Waratta , Sirited Phasit , Chittasupho Chuda
Published: February 2025

Phlai (Zingiber montanum) has long been valued for its anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties in traditional medicine. This study aimed to develop and assess the physical stability, chemical composition, and clinical efficacy of a novel Phlai spray cool formula (PSCF) compared to a diclofenac spray (DS) in patients with chronic myofascial pain syndrome. The chemical analysis revealed curcumin (28.73 ± 5.73 mg/100 g), β-sitosterol (50.92 ± 1.27 mg/100 g), and lauric acid (38.86 ± 1.72 g/100 g) as key active compounds. PSCF demonstrated stable physicochemical properties, including pH and peroxide value across storage conditions. In a randomized controlled trial involving 66 participants, PSCF and DS groups exhibited comparable reductions in pain intensity, as measured by the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), from baseline to week 2. Both groups also showed significant improvements in neck disability index (NDI), pressure pain threshold (PPT), and cervical range of motion (CROM). By week 2, the increase in CROM for flexion and extension reached 23.54 ± 4.09° and 19.43 ± 3.20°, respectively, with no significant intergroup differences. The SF-36 health survey indicated notable improvements in overall health status and quality of life, particularly in physical and emotional domains. The analgesic effects of PSCF are attributed to the combined action of menthol, β-sitosterol, and curcumin. The study demonstrated that PSCF offers a therapeutic effect comparable to diclofenac spray without adverse reactions, highlighting its potential as an alternative topical analgesic for chronic myofascial pain management.
Comparative Analysis of Wear Models for Accurate Wear Predictions
Authors: Springis Guntis , Boiko Irina
Published: February 2025

The development of innovative technologies and the employment of diverse material compositions have contributed to the enhancement of wear prediction methods. However, the accurate forecasting of service life and the identification of critical influencing factors remain challenging due to the complex interactions governing wear behaviour. Throughout history, various methodological approaches have been developed to model wear, primarily categorised into analytical calculations and experimental investigations. Analytical methods, including Archard’s equation and its variations, provide a theoretical basis for wear estimation. However, these models frequently depend on empirical coefficients derived from extensive experimentation, which restricts their predictive accuracy. Moreover, classical wear models do not fully account for material fatigue effects and 3D surface texture parameters, which are critical for solving complex engineering problems. Recent advancements have sought to address these limitations by integrating probabilistic surface modelling, fatigue-based degradation theories, and numerical simulations to enhance wear predictions. Experimental investigations remain essential for validating analytical models, as they provide empirical data necessary for parameter calibration. However, these experiments require specialised equipment and are often time-consuming and costly. The integration of modern measurement tools and numerical simulations, such as finite element analysis (FEA) and machine learning-based models, presents a promising direction for improving wear predictions. This review highlights the strengths and limitations of existing wear models and emphasises the need for further refinement of analytical approaches to incorporate fatigue wear mechanisms, real surface roughness effects, and environmental influences for more accurate and reliable wear assessments.
Study on Salt-Frost Damage Durability of High-Performance Concrete with Polypropylene Fiber
Authors: Qi Zongao , Liu Yan , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2025

The durability of marine structures in the northern coastal areas is significantly damaged due to the double deterioration of chloride salt and freeze–thaw, and adding fiber can effectively improve the durability of marine structures. This work investigated the influence of polypropylene fiber content and salt freezing cycles on the flexural strength and durability of high-performance concrete through salt freezing cycle tests. The main experimental methods used included four-point load bending tests, relative dynamic elastic modulus tests, mass loss rate tests, and chloride ion permeability tests, with the mechanisms analyzed using SEM. The results indicated that an appropriate amount of polypropylene fibers significantly enhanced the flexural strength and durability of high-performance concrete. At a fiber content of 0.9 kg/m3, the concrete achieved the highest flexural strength. However, when the fiber content exceeded 0.9 kg/m3, excessive fibers caused uneven distribution and formed clusters, which reduced the flexural strength. At a fiber content of 1.2 kg/m3, the high-performance concrete showed optimal resistance to salt freezing and chloride ion permeability. However, exceeding this fiber content increased the concrete’s porosity, allowing harmful substances like chloride ions to penetrate more easily, thereby accelerating degradation under freeze–thaw conditions. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the durability of marine structures in coastal northern regions and provides theoretical data support for such environments.
Smart Protective Glove for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Against Chainsaws for Arborists
Authors: Blocher Sandra , Wolff Dirk , Fassbender Dennis , Schneider Michael
Published: February 2025

Working with a chainsaw is a risk for arborists. When handling a chainsaw, serious injuries can occur, particularly to the arms. For this reason, arborists must wear personal protective equipment (PPE) against chainsaws. This protective equipment corresponds to PPE category 3. Current protective gloves have several textile layers as protection. These gloves offer protection up to a chain speed of 24 m/s (class 2). No protective gloves for class 3 are available. A new approach is the solution presented in the paper, in which a smart glove and a modified electrical chainsaw can close this gap. For the development of the glove, the typical work situation, current accident situations, and accident statistics were analyzed. The legal requirements and standards for the European market and the wearing comfort are discussed; based on these data, gloves were designed that included electronics, and a chainsaw was configured accordingly. The glove was then tested under laboratory conditions to see whether the electronic functions in the glove could switch off the saw as soon as the glove came too close to it. The project showed the potential for smart textiles to overcome the limits in the layering of protective textiles.
Influence of the Synthesis Method on the Textural and Morphological Characteristics of Ni-Based Mesoporous Molecular Sieves
Authors: Matei Dănuța , Postelnicu Mihai , Mihai Sonia , Cursaru Diana-Luciana
Published: February 2025

Purely siliceous MCM-41, MCM-48, SBA-15, and Ni-containing molecular sieves were synthesized by the sol–gel method. The impact of the Ni loaded by incorporation and impregnation in the framework of molecular sieves on the textural and morphological characteristics of the solids was comprehensively investigated. The incorporation method proved to be more effective in terms of textural and morphological properties; therefore, we also investigated the influence of Ni incorporation on the structure of MCM-41 at different loadings (3, 6 and 9 wt.%). Moreover, all solids were characterized by FT-IR, TGA, XRD, SEM-EDS, and N2 adsorption. The resulting mesoporous materials exhibit a porous structure with well-defined pore sizes of about 2.0–5.0 nm and high specific surface areas (634 m2g−1 for SBA-15, 1592 m2g−1 for MCM-48, and 1769 m2g−1 for MCM-41) alongside uniform pore size distributions. The MCM-41 structure remained unchanged after loading of Ni; however, its surface area and pore diameter decreased due to pore blockage.