bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impact of Functional Training on Balance and Vestibular Function: A Narrative Review
Authors: Bunnell Eric , Stratton Matthew T.
Published: December 2024

Objectives: The objective of this narrative review was to examine the available literature regarding the increasingly popular method of exercise commonly referred to as “Functional Training” and its potential implications on vestibular and balance function. Methods: a narrative review of the experimental literature prior to September 2024 was conducted. To be included in this review, the selected investigations need to include some aspect of vestibular function, balance function, functional training, and/or functional movement and be conducted in humans. Results: Evidence emerged to support the claim that implementing a physical fitness training program may improve vestibular and balance function but that a functional training program or a physical fitness program designed to improve functional movements may improve vestibular and balance function to a greater extent. Additionally, these results may be altered by factors such as age and sex. Furthermore, while there is a multitude of literature regarding the impact of functional training on balance, few investigations combine these data with direct assessments of vestibular function. Conclusions: Functional training may aid in improving vestibular and balance function, along with scores on common tests such as the Y balance test. However, more research is necessary to elucidate the direct mechanisms by which functional training may impact vestibular and balance function.
Effect of Powder Preparation of FeNiCoCrMo0.5Al1.3 High-Entropy Alloy on the Phase Composition and Properties of High-Velocity Oxy-Fuel-Sprayed Coatings
Authors: Semikolenov Anton , Mamaev Nikolay , Larionova Tatiana , Shalnova Svetlana , Tolochko Oleg
Published: December 2024

In this work, the effect of high-entropy alloy powder preparation on the coatings deposited via high-velocity oxygen fuel sprayings was studied. The powders of FeNiCoCrMo0.5Al1.3 composition were prepared by milling and gas atomization. The structures, porosity, phase composition, and microhardness of the coatings produced from mechanically alloyed and gas-atomized powders were compared. The influence of milling parameters on the powder phase composition and morphology was studied. Milling at 600 rpm for 1.5 h allowed the production of mechanically alloyed powder with a homogeneous distribution of Fe, Ni, and Al and thin lamellas enriched with Co, Cr, and Mo. Despite the difference in the feedstock powders’ phase compositions, the phase compositions of the coatings deposited from mechanically alloyed and gas-atomized powders are the same consisting of BCC, FCC solutions, and oxide. The amount of FCC solutions and oxide in the coating depends on the size distribution of the sprayed powder. It was found that the phase composition and the properties of the coatings deposited from the mechanically alloyed and gas-atomized powders of similar sizes are similar.
Modeling of Three-Dimensional Ocean Current Based on Ocean Current Big Data for Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Wen Yicheng , Li Xingfei , Li Hongyu , Zou Yanchao , Yang Yiguang , Xu Jiayi
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a real-time and high-resolution current system for underwater vehicle simulation and testing based on global ocean current data. The goal was to address the issue of the existing systems for underwater vehicle simulation, whose tests cannot provide real-time and continuous current velocity data. Thus, a three-dimensional ocean current model (3D-OCM) was built for depths of 0~4000 m via the reconstruction of raw current data, fast-access information retrieval, and three-dimensional interpolation. The three interpolation algorithms’ data smoothness and computational times were contrasted. The three-dimensional spline and bilinear algorithm performed the best, taking about 22 milliseconds to acquire the current information anywhere underwater. The comparative analysis revealed that the constructed current system performed strongly in real time and had good velocity data consistency compared with the current data from the National Marine Data Center (NMDC). Furthermore, the running trajectories of the profiling float without interpolation and with three interpolations were contrasted, where the trajectories were more consistent between the three-dimensional spline and bilinear and the three-dimensional Newton and bilinear interpolations. The system can support various marine phenomena for the underwater vehicle’s hardware-in-the-loop (HIL) simulation and testing, and it is meaningful and valuable for increasing the effectiveness of the underwater vehicle’s research and development.
Robotic-Assisted Medial Unicompartmental Knee Arthroplasty Provides Better FJS-12 Score and Lower Mid-Term Complication Rates Compared to Conventional Implantation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Avram George M. , Tomescu Horia , Dennis Cicio , Rusu Vlad , Mengis Natalie , Ammann Elias , Pacchiarotti Giacomo , Hirschmann Michael T. , Predescu Vlad , Russu Octav
Published: December 2024

Background: Robotic-assisted unicompartmental arthroplasty (rUKA) is gradually gaining more popularity than its conventional counterpart (cUKA). Current studies are highly heterogenic in terms of methodology and the reported results; therefore, establishing the optimal recommendation for patients becomes less straightforward. For this reason, this meta-analysis aims to provide an up-to-date evidence-based analysis on current evidence regarding clinical outcomes and complication rates following rUKA and cUKA. Methods: A meta-analysis was conducted following PRISMA guidelines. Five databases were searched, PubMed via MEDLINE, Epistemonikos, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Scopus. The relevant inclusion criteria were as follows: comparative clinical studies in which medial rUKA was compared to medial cUKA (prospective or retrospective designs), (2) human studies, (3) meta-analyses for cross-referencing, and (4) English language. The relevant extracted data were patient demographics, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), range of motion, and complications. A random-effects meta-analysis and subgroup analysis were conducted. The results include mean differences (MDs) and odds ratios (ORs), along with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for continuous and binary variables, respectively. Results: rUKA showed a higher overall FJS-12 score compared to cUKA, with MD = 6.02 (95%CI: −0.07 to 12.1), p = 0.05. At 6 months postoperatively, the MD increased to 10.31 (95%CI: 5.14 to 15.49), p < 0.01. At a minimum 36-month follow-up, cUKA had a higher all-cause revision rate, with OR = 3.31 (95%CI: 1.25 to 8.8), p = 0.02, and at a minimum 60-month follow-up, a higher aseptic loosening rate, with OR = 3.86 (95%CI: 1.51 to 9.91), p < 0.01, compared to rUKA. Conclusions: rUKA provides better FJS-12 results compared to cUKA, as well as lower all-cause revision and aseptic loosening rates at 36- and 60-month follow-up, respectively. However, long-term follow-up is still pending.
Trends in the Literature About the Adoption of Digital Banking in Emerging Economies: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Acosta-Prado Julio César , Rojas Rincón Joan Sebastián , Mejía Martínez Andrés Mauricio , Riveros Tarazona Andrés Ricardo
Published: December 2024

This study examines the trends in the literature about adopting digital banking in emerging economies. It is based on the concepts of digital transformation and technological adoption, which significantly impact the development of the banking industry. A quantitative approach was used through a bibliometric analysis using data from Scopus to achieve the objective. The search equation allowed 118 publications to be extracted and analyzed. The results show that digital banking in emerging countries is a growing field of research that has driven the introduction of new information technologies. The perceived usefulness of digital banking is a key factor in promoting its adoption in the market. Attributes such as security and trust were identified as affecting the level of user satisfaction. Most studies are based on technological adoption, where perceived risk, usefulness, and ease of use are key to understanding the intention to use these technologies. Some countries’ concerns about financial inclusion, cyber security, and trust in financial technology are evident. While digital banking has the potential to increase the coverage of financial services, there are concerns about cybersecurity risks and user data protection.
Researching the Impact of Corporate Social Responsibility on Economic Growth and Inequality: Methodological Aspects
Authors: Chipriyanov Mihail , Chipriyanova Galina , Krasteva-Hristova Radosveta , Atanasov Atanas , Luchkov Kiril
Published: December 2024

The study focuses on analyzing the impact of corporate social responsibility (CSR) on economic growth and reducing inequality, highlighting the importance of CSR in achieving sustainable development and social justice. The main aim is to analyze how different CSR initiatives contribute to economic development, social prosperity, and the reduction in inequality by reviewing the methods used to assess their impact. The research methodology includes a detailed literature review, bibliometric analysis and scientific mapping, surveys of various business organizations, and a gap analysis regarding the identification of gaps between the current state of CSR activities and the expected outcomes. The research shows that companies perceive CSR as a key tool for improving corporate image, responding to stakeholder expectations, and investing in social justice. Despite positive intentions, challenges include the lack of clearly defined methodologies for measuring the impact on economic inequality, as well as difficulties in assessing the long-term effects of CSR initiatives. Key conclusions highlight the need for more structured approaches to assessing the social and economic effects of CSR, recommending that companies improve their transparency and accountability and implement clear indicators of success to achieve sustainable economic and social outcomes.
Determinants of Sustainable Entrepreneurship in Morocco: The Role of Entrepreneurial Orientation, Financial Literacy, and Inclusion
Authors: Zouitini Ikram , El Hafdaoui Hamza , Chetioui Hajar , Tardif Pierre-Martin , Makhtari Mohamed
Published: December 2024

This paper investigates the relationship between sustainable entrepreneurship and financial inclusion, financial literacy, and entrepreneurial orientation. As sustainable entrepreneurship gains academic and practical interest, understanding factors that enable entrepreneurs to operate sustainably is fundamental. The manuscript uses an electronic questionnaire distributed to key economic stakeholders and performs partial least squares structural equation modeling on data from 169 respondents. The results show that entrepreneurial orientation has a positive and significant impact on sustainable entrepreneurship, with a beta coefficient of 0.878 and a probability value of less than 0.01. Financial literacy significantly influences sustainable entrepreneurship, with a beta coefficient of 0.389 and a probability value of less than 0.001, and it partially mediates its relationship with financial inclusion, showing a beta coefficient of 0.3 and a probability value of 0.013. Financial literacy and financial inclusion are positively correlated, with a beta coefficient of 0.771 and a probability value of less than 0.05. However, the impact of financial inclusion on sustainable entrepreneurship is negative and insignificant, with a beta coefficient of −0.392, and there is no evidence that entrepreneurial orientation moderates the link between financial literacy and sustainable entrepreneurship. The findings provide valuable insights for Moroccan policymakers to promote entrepreneurship, suggesting that financial literacy plays a crucial role in enhancing sustainable business practices. The study emphasizes the need for Morocco to adapt to current programs and create a supportive financial environment for entrepreneurs. Due to a lack of comprehensive datasets, the study’s conclusions are limited and might not accurately reflect the entire landscape.
The Landscape Design Proposal for the New Archeological Museum of Cyprus
Authors: Tzortzi Julia Nerantzia
Published: December 2024

This paper deals with the landscape design strategy that was followed in the proposal that was submitted to the International Architecture Competition of the New Archaeological Museum of Cyprus. The aim of this document is to analyze how landscape and architecture interact. In the author’s design proposal for the New Archaeological Museum of Cyprus, the various “gardens” integrated into the Landscape are analyzed. The concept of landscape design is related to the sacredness of trees to certain gods in Ancient Greece and Greek Mythology. The proposal addresses the symbolic meaning of trees and water. The design triggered the creation of several “gardens”: the “Sacred Garden”, the “Stone Garden”, the “Olive Garden”, the “Sacred Grove”, and the “Public Garden”, combining their soft landscapes with the hard landscape of the “Plaza” and the “Courtyard”. Each figure in the garden has a symbolic meaning that allows for a dialogue between landscape and architectural design. In addition, the findings provide valuable insights into the historical and spiritual value of landscape elements (plants, water) that are also thermal regulators for sustainable urban planning. The research results may be of value to landscape architects, architects, and landscape designers in the Mediterranean region.
Unified Urban Growth Pattern Identification Utilizing a Co-Clustering Tendency and Co-Clusters of Building Density and Diversity
Authors: Lee Gyoungju , Park Jiyoung
Published: December 2024

Density and diversity are fundamental attributes of urban environments, shaped by complex land use patterns that evolve over time. This study conducted a comprehensive spatiotemporal analysis of urban growth in two adjacent mid-sized cities, Cheonan and Asan, Korea, employing a spatial statistical framework designed to capture the intricate interplay between building density and diversity. Unlike traditional approaches that analyzed these factors independently, this study integrated both measures into a unified analytical model, identifying zones where high density and high diversity co-clustered over the past two decades. The empirical findings show a consistent monocentric growth pattern across both cities, while also uncovering emergent areas of strong co-clustering, indicating a shift towards more integrated land use practices. This spatial overlap points to a synchronized development trajectory and suggests the potential conurbation of the two cities. By examining the co-clustering dynamics of density and diversity, this study provides new insights into urban development processes, offering valuable guidance for planners and policymakers in shaping future growth strategies.
Study on Ecosystem Service Trade-Offs and Synergies in the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area Based on Ecosystem Service Bundles
Authors: Li Hui , Xu Qing , Qiu Huiyi , Du Jiaheng , Xu Zhenzhou , Liu Longying , Zhao Zixiu , Zhu Zixin , He Yun
Published: December 2024

In-depth research on the spatial and temporal evolution of ecosystem service trade-offs and synergistic relationships, scientific identification of ecosystem service bundles, and the main factors affecting the spatial differentiation of ecosystem service bundle provisioning are crucial to enhancing the overall benefits of regional ecosystem services and human well-being. Based on the assessment of the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area ecosystem service functional system, we combined the correlation analysis method, hierarchical clustering method, and principal component analysis to analyze the trade-offs/synergistic relationships of 11 indicators contained in four major ecosystem service categories of the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area and explored the study of ecosystem service bundle identification and clustering spatial differentiation. The results of this study showed the following: (1) Between 2000 and 2018, Regulating and Supporting services showed a decreasing trend while provisioning and cultural services showed an increasing trend. Human interference affected the spatial differentiation of ecosystem services provision; the provision of individual ecosystem services was more random, but the geospatial distribution showed a certain degree of regularity. (2) The intrinsic connection of ecosystem services is continuously strengthened, and the other four ecosystem services except industrial products in the provisioning services easily produce synergistic relationships with regulating and supporting services, while industrial products, leisure and recreation, scientific research and education, and other ecosystem services are more likely to produce a trade-off relationship between them. The correspondence among ecosystem service trade-offs, synergistic relationships, and cold/hot spots is not uniform due to spatial scales. (3) The method of combining socio-economic statistics and the InVEST model can identify similar ecosystem service bundle classifications, but there are differences in the performance of some of the roles at different study scales and in different study areas. (4) For complex urban-natural ecosystem services, the classified ecosystem service bundles have broad similarities. The development of high-density city clusters depends on the coordinated development of the population, resources, environment, society, and economy of each city in the region.
Association Between Severe Periodontitis and Cognitive Decline in Older Adults
Authors: Brahmbhatt Yash , Alqaderi Hend , Chinipardaz Zahra
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Periodontal disease, a progressive inflammatory condition, disrupts the oral microbiome and releases inflammatory cytokines, leading to systemic issues, including cognitive decline. This study investigates the association between severe periodontitis and cognitive decline, exploring the role of alkaline phosphatase (ALP), an enzyme linked to systemic inflammation, as an effect modifier. (2) Methods: We analyzed cross-sectional data from the 2013–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). Severe periodontitis was defined using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) case definition. A weighted multivariable logistic regression model assessed the association between severe periodontitis and cognitive decline. An interaction term examined ALP’s role as an effect modifier. (3) Results: This study included 1265 participants aged 65 and older. After adjusting for confounders, each one-point increase in cognitive function score was associated with a 2% decrease in the odds of severe periodontitis (OR = 0.98; 95% CI = 0.97–0.99; p = 0.008). ALP was a significant effect modifier in the relationship between severe periodontitis and cognitive decline. (4) Conclusions: This study, using a representative U.S. adult population aged 65 and over, suggests that lower cognitive performance correlates with higher likelihood of severe periodontitis. ALP enhances the association between severe periodontitis and cognitive decline.
Mitochondrial Genomes of Mammals from the Brazilian Cerrado and Phylogenetic Considerations for the Orders Artiodactyla, Carnivora, and Chiroptera (Chordata: Mammalia)
Authors: Pimentel Luiz Guilherme Pereira , Soares Rafael Augusto Silva , de Assis Priscila Martins , Batista da Silva Iuri , Rodrigues-Oliveira Igor Henrique , Rocha Renan Rodrigues , de Miranda Vinícius Gonçalves , Bassam Laiena Luz , Kavalco Karine Frehner , Menegídio Fabiano Bezerra , Garcia Caroline , Pasa Rubens
Published: December 2024

We assembled and annotated the complete mitochondrial genomes of Lycalopex vetulus (hoary fox), Cerdocyon thous (bush dog), Tayassu pecari (white-lipped peccary), and Tadarida brasiliensis (Brazilian free-tailed bat). The mitogenomes exhibited typical vertebrate structures, containing 13 protein-coding genes, 22 tRNA genes, 2 ribosomal RNA genes, and a D-loop region. Phylogenetic reconstruction using the 13 protein-coding genes revealed robust relationships among species within Carnivora, Chiroptera, and Artiodactyla, corroborating previous studies. Secondary structure analysis of tRNAs and ribosomal genes showed slight variations among species of the same order. This research highlights the importance of mitochondrial genomics in understanding the evolutionary relationships and genetic diversity of Cerrado mammals, contributing to conservation efforts for this unique ecosystem.
Tribology in Germany: Latest Research and Development
Authors: Bartel Dirk
Published: December 2024

Sixty-five years ago, in November 1959, the “Gesellschaft für Schmiertechnik” (GST, Society for Lubrication Technology), the predecessor organization of today’s German Society for Tribology, was founded in the form of a non-profit technical scientific association [...]
Influence of Molybdenum Addition on the Structure, Mechanical Properties, and Cutting Performance of AlTiN Coatings
Authors: Yang Tao , Yin Jun , Ying Puyou , Lin Changhong , Zhang Ping , Wu Jianbo , Kovalev Alexander , Huang Min , Wang Tianle , Grigoriev Andrei Y. , Gutsev Dmitri M. , Levchenko Vladimir
Published: December 2024

Though AlTiN coating has been intensively studied, there is still a need to develop AlTiN coating to meet the growing demand of industrial machining. One effective way to improve the performance of AlTiN coating is by adding alloying elements. In this study, AlTiN and AlTiMo coatings were deposited using multi-arc ion plating to investigate the influence of molybdenum addition on the structure, mechanical properties, and cutting performance of AlTiN coatings. Spherical droplets formed on the surfaces of both coatings, with the AlTiMoN coating exhibiting more surface defects than the AlTiN coating. The grazing incidence X-ray diffraction results revealed the formation of an (Al,Ti)N phase formed in the AlTiN and AlTiMoN coatings. Molybdenum doping in the AlTiMoN coating slightly reduced the grain size. Both coatings exhibited excellent adhesion to the substrate. The hardness (H), elastic moduli (E), H/E, and H3/E2 ratios of the AlTiMoN coating were higher than those of the AlTiN coating. The improvement in the mechanical properties was attributed to grain refinement and solution strengthening. Molybdenum doping improved the tribological properties and cutting performance of the AlTiN coatings, which was ascribed to the formation of MoO3 as a solid lubricant. These results show a path to increase the performance of AlTiN coating through molybdenum addition and provide ideas for the application of AlTiMoN coatings for cutting tools.
Polyacrylamide Hydrogel Containing Starch and Sugarcane Bagasse Ash: Synthesis, Characterisation, and Application in Cement Pastes and Mortars
Authors: Pereira Ana Elizabete Nunes , de Almeida Edson Araujo , Kruger Fábio Rodrigo , da Silva-Filho Edson Cavalcanti , Muniz Edvani Curti
Published: December 2024

Internal curing is a process based on the addition of materials that function as water reservoirs in cementitious media. Superabsorbent hydrogels are an alternative that can be used as an internal curing agent, as they have the ability to absorb and release water in a controlled manner. In the present work, superabsorbent hydrogels based on crosslinked polyacrylamide in the presence of starch and sugarcane bagasse ash (SCBA) were developed and applied to mortars as an internal curing agent. The synthesized hydrogels were evaluated by SEM, FTIR, and swelling analysis. Cement pastes and mortars were produced using different amounts of hydrogel (0.03%, 0.06%, and 0.1% by weight). An analysis of the cement pastes and mortars revealed that hydrogel contributes to hydration, thus improving the quality of the product. Furthermore, the addition of 0.03% hydrogel by weight increased the mechanical resistance of the mortars in up to 26.8% at 28 days of curing as compared with reference (without hydrogel). To the best of our knowledge, this is the first study to use a hydrogel based on polyacrylamide crosslinked with starch and SCBA as a curing agent for mortars and cement pastes. This approach is environmentally friendly, because it uses a natural product (starch) and a byproduct from the sugarcane industry (SCBA).
Investigating and Multi-Objective Optimizing WEDM Parameters for Al6061/Mg/MoS2 Composites Using BBD and NSGA-II
Authors: Senthilkumar Vagheesan , Nagadeepan Anbazhagan , Ilavenil K. K.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to optimize the Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (EDM) process parameters for aluminum 6061 alloy reinforced with Mg and MoS2 using the Box–Behnken (BBD) design and the non-dominated sorting genetic (NSGA-II) algorithm. The objective is to enhance the machining efficiency and quality of the composite material. The Box–Behnken (BBD) design was utilized to design a set of experiments with varying levels of process parameters, comprising pulse-on time, servo volt, and current. The material removal rate and surface roughness were considered as machining responses for optimization. These responses were measured and used to develop a mathematical model. The NSGA-II, a multi-objective optimization algorithm, was then applied to search for the optimal combination of process parameters that simultaneously maximizes the material removal rate and minimizes the electrode wear rate and surface roughness. The algorithm generated and evolved a set of Pareto-optimal solutions, providing a trade-off between conflicting objectives. The results of the optimization process were analyzed to identify the optimal process parameters that lead to improved machining performance. The study revealed optimal Wire Electrical Discharge Machining (WEDM) parameters for Al6061/Mg/MoS2 composites using NSGA-II. The optimized parameters, including a pulse-on time (Ton) of 105 µs, servo voltage (SV) of 35 V, and peak current (PC) of 31 A, resulted in a Material Removal Rate (MRR) of 7.51 mm3/min and a surface roughness (SR) of 1.97 µm. This represents a 15% improvement in the MRR and a 20% reduction in the SR compared to non-optimized settings, demonstrating the efficiency of the BBD-NSGA-II approach.
Quantitative Evaluation of Irradiated Ductility Degradation Using the Indentation Technique Combined with Numerical Experiments
Authors: Wakui Takashi , Saito Shigeru , Futakawa Masatoshi
Published: December 2024

The ductile properties of irradiated materials are among of the important indicators related to their structural integrity. These properties are generally determined by performing tensile tests on irradiated materials in the irradiation environment. Indentation tests are used for evaluating ductile properties easily and rapidly. Constants in the Swift-type material constitutive equation were identified via inverse analysis using the Kalman filter, such that the numerical experimental results reproduced the indentation test results. Numerical tensile experiments were conducted using stress–strain curves with the identified constants to obtain nominal stress and strain curves. The identified yield stress, work hardening coefficient, and exponent were 200–1000 MPa, 1100–1500 Ma, and 0.5–0.7, respectively. Furthermore, two methods were proposed for evaluating the total elongation. Method I was used to calculate the total elongation based on the relationship between the total and uniform elongations obtained from the tensile tests performed on irradiated materials. Method II was used to determine the total elongation from the ductile failure criterion based on the relationship between the stress and strain states in the tensile specimen model using the numerical tensile experiment and failure strain evaluated from actual tensile experiments. Evaluated minimum total elongation was 10%. The evaluation results for ion-irradiated materials were similar to the tensile test results for irradiated materials.
Continuous Multi-Target Approaching Control of Hyper-Redundant Manipulators Based on Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Xu Han , Xue Chen , Chen Quan , Yang Jun , Liang Bin
Published: December 2024

Hyper-redundant manipulators based on bionic structures offer superior dexterity due to their large number of degrees of freedom (DOFs) and slim bodies. However, controlling these manipulators is challenging because of infinite inverse kinematic solutions. In this paper, we present a novel reinforcement learning-based control method for hyper-redundant manipulators, integrating path and configuration planning. First, we introduced a deep reinforcement learning-based control method for a multi-target approach, eliminating the need for complicated reward engineering. Then, we optimized the network structure and joint space target points sampling to implement precise control. Furthermore, we designed a variable-reset cycle technique for a continuous multi-target approach without resetting the manipulator, enabling it to complete end-effector trajectory tracking tasks. Finally, we verified the proposed control method in a dynamic simulation environment. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, achieving a success rate of 98.32% with a 134% improvement using the variable-reset cycle technique.
netQDA: Local Network-Guided High-Dimensional Quadratic Discriminant Analysis
Authors: Zhou Xueping , Chen Wei , Li Yanming
Published: December 2024

Quadratic Discriminant Analysis (QDA) is a well-known and flexible classification method that considers differences between groups based on both mean and covariance structures. However, the connection structures of high-dimensional predictors are usually not explicitly incorporated into modeling. In this work, we propose a local network-guided QDA method that integrates the local connection structures of high-dimensional predictors. In the context of gene expression research, our method can identify genes that show differential expression levels as well as gene networks that exhibit different connection patterns between various biological state groups, thereby enhancing our understanding of underlying biological mechanisms. Extensive simulations and real data applications demonstrate its superior performance in both feature selection and outcome classification compared to commonly used discriminant analysis methods.
A Parametric Six-Step Method for Second-Order IVPs with Oscillating Solutions
Authors: Papadopoulos Dimitris F.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we develop an explicit symmetric six-step method for the numerical solution of second-order initial value problems (IVPs) with oscillating solutions. The proposed method is phase-fitted and incorporates a free coefficient as a parameter to optimize its performance. By exploring a wide range of values for this parameter, we computationally determine the periodicity interval. The objective of this procedure is to identify the range of the parameter’s values for which the method remains stable. Based on the output from the periodicity interval analysis, we then aim to define the optimal values for the parameter by numerically solving three initial value problems. The results guided us in identifying these optimal values and confirm the high efficiency of the new method. The method’s efficiency is further validated for the chosen optimal parameter value for specific oscillatory problems, where it is compared with well-known phase-fitted methods.
Bounded Rational Players in a Symmetric Random Exchange Market
Authors: Yusuf Aliyu , Oliveira Bruno , Pinto Alberto , Yannacopoulos Athanasios N.
Published: December 2024

A model of Edgeworthian economies is studied, in which participants are randomly chosen at each period to exchange two goods to increase their utilities, as described by the Cobb–Douglas utility function. Participants can trade deviating from their bilateral equilibrium, provided that the market and the trade follow appropriate symmetry conditions. The article aims to study the convergence to equilibrium in a situation where individuals or small groups of participants trade in a market, and prices are determined by interactions between the participants rather than by demand and supply alone. A dynamic matching and bargaining game is considered, with statistical duality imposed on the market game, ensuring that each participant has a counterpart with opposite preferences. This guaranties that there is sufficient incentive for trade. It is shown that, in each period, the expected logarithm of the trading price in the Edgeworthian economy equals the expected Walrasian price. This demonstrates that, under symmetry conditions, the trading price in the Edgeworthian economy is related to the Walrasian price, indicating convergence of the trading price in the Edgeworthian economy towards the Walrasian price. The study suggests that, under the right conditions, the decentralized trading model leads to price convergence similar to what would be expected in a more classical Walrasian economy, where prices balance demand and supply.
Eating- and Weight-Related Disorders in the Armed Forces
Authors: Himmerich Hubertus , Gravina Davide , Schalinski Inga , Willmund Gerd-Dieter , Zimmermann Peter Lutz , Keeler Johanna Louise , Treasure Janet
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Like in the general population, the prevalences of eating- and weight-related health issues in the armed forces are increasing. Relevant medical conditions include the eating disorders (EDs) anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and avoidant restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), as well as body dysmorphic disorder, muscle dysmorphia, and the relative energy deficiency in sport (RED-S) syndrome. Methods: We performed a narrative literature review on eating- and weight-related disorders in the armed forces. Results: Entry standards might exclude people with obesity, with EDs, or at high risk for EDs from entering the armed forces for military reasons and to protect the individual’s health. Relevant potential risk factors of eating- and weight-related disorders in the military are the emphasis on appearance and fitness in the military, high levels of stress, military sexual trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, deployment, relocation, long commutes, consumption of ultra-processed foods and beverages, limitations on food selection and physical exercise, and intensive combat training and field exercises. Eating- and weight-related disorders negatively impact professional military appearance and lead to problems with cardiorespiratory and neuromuscular fitness; daytime sleepiness; and a higher risk of musculoskeletal injuries, and other physical and mental health problems. Current and potential future therapeutic options include occupational health measures, psychosocial therapies, neuromodulation, and drug treatments. Conclusions: Even though randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been performed to test treatments for obesity in the armed forces, RCTs for the treatment of EDs, body dysmorphic disorder, muscle dysmorphia, and RED-S syndrome are lacking in the military context.
Comprehensive Blood Metabolome and Exposome Analysis, Annotation, and Interpretation in E-Waste Workers
Authors: Pang Zhiqiang , Viau Charles , Fobil Julius N. , Basu Niladri , Xia Jianguo
Published: December 2024

Background: Electronic and electrical waste (e-waste) production has emerged to be of global environmental public health concern. E-waste workers, who are frequently exposed to hazardous chemicals through occupational activities, face considerable health risks. Methods: To investigate the metabolic and exposomic changes in these workers, we analyzed whole blood samples from 100 male e-waste workers and 49 controls from the GEOHealth II project (2017–2018 in Accra, Ghana) using LC-MS/MS. A specialized computational workflow was established for exposomics data analysis, incorporating two curated reference libraries for metabolome and exposome profiling. Two feature detection algorithms, asari and centWave, were applied. Results: In comparison to centWave, asari showed better sensitivity in detecting MS features, particularly at trace levels. Principal component analysis demonstrated distinct metabolic profiles between e-waste workers and controls, revealing significant disruptions in key metabolic pathways, including steroid hormone biosynthesis, drug metabolism, bile acid biosynthesis, vitamin metabolism, and prostaglandin biosynthesis. Correlation analyses linked metal exposures to alterations in hundreds to thousands of metabolic features. Functional enrichment analysis highlighted significant perturbations in pathways related to liver function, vitamin metabolism, linoleate metabolism, and dynorphin signaling, with the latter being observed for the first time in e-waste workers. Conclusions: This study provides new insights into the biological impact of prolonged metal exposure in e-waste workers.
Soil Microbial Communities Changes Along Depth and Contrasting Facing Slopes at the Parque Nacional La Campana, Chile
Authors: Quinteros-Urquieta Carolina , Francois Jean Pierre , Aguilar-Muñoz Polette , Molina Verónica
Published: December 2024

The Parque Nacional La Campana (PNLC) was recently recognized for its high soil surface microbial richness. Here, we explored the microbial community structure in soil profiles from contrasting facing slopes where sclerophyllous forest (SF) and xerophytic shrubland (XS) develop. Soil physicochemical conditions (dry density, pH, and organic matter C and N isotopic soil signatures) were determined at three depths (5, 10, and 15 cm depths). Amplicon sequencing (16S rRNA and ITS1-5F) and specific quantification (qPCR bacteria, archaea and ammonia-oxidizing archaea, fungi) were used to profile the microbial community. Our results indicate that opposite slopes, with different vegetation types and soil conditions studied potentially explained the spatial variability of the microbial community composition, especially between sites than through soil depth. Discriminative taxa were observed to vary between sites, such as, C. nitrososphaera (ammonia-oxidizing archaea) and Sphingomonas, and bacteria associated with Actinobacteria and Bacteroidetes were predominant in SF and XS, respectively. Fungi affiliated with Humicola and Preussia were more abundant in SF, while Cladosporium and Alternaria were in XS. Higher ASV richness was observed in SF compared to XS, for both prokaryotes and fungi. Furthermore, SF showed a higher number of shared ASVs, while XS showed a decrease in unique ASVs in deeper soil layers. In XS, the genus DA101 (Verrucomicrobia) increases with soil depth, reaching higher levels in SF, while Kaistobacter shows the opposite trend. PNLC soils were a reservoir of redundant microbial functions related to biogeochemical cycles, including symbiotic and phytopathogenic fungi. In conclusion, as with the predominant vegetation, the structure and potential function of microbial life in soil profiles were associated with the contrasting the effect of facing slopes as toposequence effects.
Lactobacillus sp. for the Attenuation of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease in Mice
Authors: Olotu Titilayo , Ferrell Jessica M.
Published: December 2024

Probiotics are studied for their therapeutic potential in the treatment of several diseases, including metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). Part of the significant progress made in understanding the pathogenesis of steatosis has come from identifying the complex interplay between the gut microbiome and liver function. Recently, probiotics have shown beneficial effects for the treatment and prevention of steatosis and MASLD in rodent models and in clinical trials. Numerous studies have demonstrated the promising potential of lactic acid bacteria, especially the genus Lactobacillus. Lactobacillus is a prominent bile acid hydrolase bacterium that is involved in the biotransformation of bile acids. This genus’ modulation of the gut microbiota also contributes to overall gut health; it controls gut microbial overgrowth, shapes the intestinal bile acid pool, and alleviates inflammation. This narrative review offers a comprehensive summary of the potential of Lactobacillus in the gut-liver axis to attenuate steatosis and MASLD. It also highlights the roles of Lactobacillus in hepatic lipid metabolism, insulin resistance, inflammation and fibrosis, and bile acid synthesis in attenuating MASLD.
Environmental Changes Driving Shifts in the Structure and Functional Properties of the Symbiotic Microbiota of Daphnia
Authors: You Minru , Yang Wenwu
Published: December 2024

Symbiotic microbiota significantly influence the development, physiology, and behavior of their hosts, and therefore, they are widely studied. However, very few studies have investigated the changes in symbiotic microbiota across generations. Daphnia magna originating from the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau were cultured through seven generations in our laboratory, and the symbiotic microbiota of D. magna were sequenced using a 16S rRNA amplicon to analyze changes in the structure and functional properties of the symbiotic microbiota of D. magna from a harsh environment to an ideal environment. We detected substantial changes in the symbiotic microbiota of D. magna across generations. For example, the genus Nevskia, a member of the gamma-subclass Proteobacteria, had the highest abundance in the first generation (G1), followed by a decrease in abundance in the fourth (G4) and seventh (G7) generations. The gene functions of the microbiota in different generations of D. magna also changed significantly. The fourth generation was mainly rich in fatty acyl-CoA synthase, acetyl-CoA acyltransferase, phosphoglycerol phosphatase, etc. The seventh generation was mainly rich in osmotic enzyme protein and ATP-binding protein of the ABC transport system. This study confirms that the alterations in the structure and functional properties of the symbiotic microbiota of D. magna under changing environments are typical responses of D. magna to environmental changes.
Enhanced Catalytic Activity of CuO@CuS Core–Shell Structure for Highly Efficient HER Application
Authors: Ahmed Abu Talha Aqueel , Cho Sangeun , Im Hyunsik , Jana Atanu
Published: December 2024

Using electrocatalytic water reduction to produce hydrogen fuel offers significant potential for clean energy, yet its large-scale adoption depends on developing cost-effective, non-precious, and efficient catalysts to replace expensive Pt-based state-of-the-art HER catalysts. The catalytic HER performance of an active catalyst largely depends on the available catalytic active sites, conductivity, and intrinsic electrochemical kinetics, all of which can be altered by incorporating a heteroatom into the active catalyst structure. Herein, we synthesized a unique nitrogen-doped CuO@CuS (NCOS) core–shell-structured catalyst through a facile hydrothermal process followed by an efficacious nitrogenation process, and its electrochemical performance for the HER was systematically analyzed. The NCOS core–shell-structured catalyst exhibits a reduced overpotential (55 mV) and Tafel slope (107 mV dec−1) compared to the pure CuS (CS; 179 mV and 201 mV dec−1) catalyst at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Moreover, the NCOS core–shell-structured catalyst demonstrates excellent endurance for up to 50 h of chronopotentiometric testing at a driving current density rate of 10 and 100 mA cm−2. This excellent catalytic HER activity is a result of an increased electron transfer rate and a greater number of accessible active sites, attributed to a change in structural properties and the high electronic conductivity aroused from nitrogen incorporation, as evidenced from the TOF and EIS curve analyses.
Identification of Tumor-Suppressive miR-30a-3p Controlled Genes: ANLN as a Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer
Authors: Mitsueda Reiko , Nagata Ayako , Toda Hiroko , Tomioka Yuya , Yasudome Ryutaro , Kato Mayuko , Shinden Yoshiaki , Nakajo Akihiro , Seki Naohiko
Published: December 2024

Our recently created RNA-sequence-based microRNA (miRNA) expression signature in breast cancer clinical specimens revealed that some miR-30 family members were significantly downregulated in cancer tissues. Based on TCGA database analyses, we observed that among the miR-30 family members, miR-30a-3p (the passenger strand derived from pre-miR-30a) was significantly downregulated in breast cancer (BC) clinical specimens, and its low expression predicted worse prognoses. Ectopic expression assays showed that miR-30a-3p transfected cancer cells (MDA-MB-157 and MDA-MB-231) had their aggressive phenotypes significantly suppressed, e.g., their proliferation, migration, and invasion abilities. These data indicated that miR-30a-3p acted as a tumor-suppressive miRNA in BC cells. Our subsequent search for miR-30a-3p controlled molecular networks in BC cells yielded a total of 189 genes. Notably, among those 189 genes, cell-cycle-related genes (ANLN, MKI67, CCNB1, NCAPG, ZWINT, E2F7, PDS5A, RIF1, BIRC5, MAD2L1, CACUL1, KIF23, UBE2S, EML4, SEPT10, CLTC, and PCNP) were enriched according to a GeneCodis 4 database analysis. Moreover, the overexpression of four genes (ANLN, CCNB1, BIRC5, and KIF23) significantly predicted worse prognoses for patients with BC according to TCGA analyses. Finally, our assays demonstrated that the overexpression of ANLN had cancer-promoting functions in BC cells. The involvement of miR-30a-3p (the passenger strand) in BC molecular pathogenesis is a new concept in cancer research, and the outcomes of our study strongly indicate the importance of analyzing passenger strands of miRNAs in BC cells.
Urinary miRNA Expression in Pre-Eclampsia During Early and Mid-Pregnancy
Authors: Illarionov Roman A. , Maltseva Anastasia R. , Pachuliia Olga V. , Postnikova Tatiana B. , Vashukova Elena S. , Popova Anastasiia K. , Nasykhova Yulia A. , Bespalova Olesya N. , Glotov Andrey S.
Published: December 2024

Background: Pre-eclampsia (PE) is a serious condition affecting 2–8% of pregnancies worldwide, leading to high maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. MicroRNAs (miRNAs), small non-coding RNA molecules, have emerged as potential biomarkers for various pregnancy-related pathologies, including PE. MiRNAs in plasma and serum have been extensively studied, but urinary miRNAs remain underexplored, especially during early pregnancy. This study aimed to investigate the urinary miRNA expression profiles in women with pre-eclampsia during the first and second trimesters. Materials and Methods: A prospective study was conducted using 48 urine samples from 24 pregnant women (n = 12 pre-eclampsia and n = 12 controls). Urine samples were collected in the first (9–13 weeks) and second (22–24 weeks) trimesters. MiRNA isolation, library preparation, and high-throughput sequencing were performed, followed by differential expression and enrichment analyses. Results: In the first trimester, five miRNAs were dysregulated in PE in comparison with the control group (hsa-miR-184, hsa-miR-203a-3p, hsa-miR-205-5p, hsa-miR-223-3p—downregulated; hsa-miR-1-3p—upregulated). In the second trimester, hsa-miR-205-5p and hsa-miR-223-3p were downregulated, and hsa-miR-9-5p, hsa-miR-1-3p, and hsa-miR-206 were upregulated. Conclusions: Our study identified differentially expressed miRNAs in the urine of pre-eclamptic patients during early pregnancy. These findings suggest that specific urinary miRNAs could serve as non-invasive biomarkers for the early detection and risk assessment of pre-eclampsia. The changes in the level of differential expression of miRNAs during gestation highlight their role in the progression of PE. Further research and validation with a larger cohort are needed to explore their clinical potential for improving maternal and fetal outcomes through early intervention.