bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering Students’ Use of Large Language Model Tools: An Empirical Study Based on a Survey of Students from 12 Universities
Authors: Li Ruimiao , Li Manli , Qiao Weifeng
Published: February 2025

Large language model (LLM) tools, such as ChatGPT, are rapidly transforming engineering education by enhancing tasks like information retrieval, coding, and writing refinement, which are critical to the problem-solving and technical focus of engineering disciplines. This study investigates how engineering students use LLM tools and the challenges they face, offering insights into the adoption of AI technologies in academic settings. A survey of 539 engineering students from 12 leading Chinese universities, using the UTAUT framework, examines factors such as technological expectations, environmental support, and personal characteristics. The key findings include the following: (1) Over 40% of engineering students use LLM tools, with 18.8% regarding them as indispensable. (2) Trust in AI-generated content remains a central challenge, as students must critically evaluate its accuracy and reliability. (3) Environmental support significantly affects usage, with notable regional disparities, particularly between eastern and other regions in China. (4) A persistent digital divide, influenced by gender, academic level, and socioeconomic background, affects the depth and effectiveness of tool use. These results underscore the need for targeted support to address regional and demographic disparities and optimize LLM tool integration in engineering education.
Security-Constrained Multi-Stage Robust Dynamic Economic Dispatch with Bulk Storage
Authors: Dai Li , Ye Renshi , You Dahai , Yin Xianggen
Published: February 2025

As wind penetration rates continue to increase, the main challenge faced by operators is how to schedule flexible resources, such as traditional generation and storage, in the future to ensure the safe and stable operation of power grids under multiple uncertainties. In this paper, a security-constrained multi-stage robust dynamic economic dispatch model with storage (SMRDEDS) is proposed to address multiple uncertainties of wind power outputs and N-1 contingencies. Compared to the traditional two-stage robust dynamic economic dispatch model, the proposed multi-stage dispatch model yields sequential operation decisions with uncertainties revealed gradually over time. What is more, a combined two-stage Benders’ decomposition and relaxed approximation–robust dual dynamic programming (RA-RDDP) is proposed to handle the computational issue of multi-stage problems due to large-scale post-contingency constraints and the convergence issue of the stochastic dual dynamic programming (SDDP) algorithm. First, a two-stage Benders’ decomposition algorithm is applied to relax the SMRDEDS model into a master problem and sub-problem. The master problem determines the generator output and storage charge and discharge, and the sub-problem determines the total generation and storage reserve capacity to cover all the generator N-1 contingencies. Second, a relaxed approximation–RDDP algorithm is proposed to solve the multi-stage framework problem. Compared to the traditional SDDP algorithm and RDDP algorithm, the proposed RA-RDDP algorithm uses the inner relaxed approximation and outer approximation methods to approximate the upper and lower bounds of the future cost-to-go function, which overcomes the convergence issue of the traditional SDDP algorithm and solution efficiency of the RDDP algorithm. We tested the proposed algorithm on the IEEE-3 bus, IEEE-118 bus, and the German power system. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the proposed model and proposed algorithm.
Adapting the Accounting Policy of Business Entities to Environmental Challenges—A Case Study from Poland
Authors: Sadowska Beata , Lew Grzegorz , Wójcik-Jurkiewicz Magdalena , Drożdż Wojciech , Pilecki Bartosz
Published: February 2025

The aim of this article is to analyse the disclosure of financial and non-financial information in an ESG report on the energy sector in Poland, using the example of the Enea Group, i.e., information on the following: (1) the structure of the Enea Group, its business model, and created values; (2) the impact of the energy sector on the natural environment; (3) environmental protection costs in correlation with the calculation of electricity prices and rates (financial and non-financial aspects); and (4) pro-ecological projects. The specific aim is to adapt the accounting policy of business entities to environmental challenges by proposing changes to the energy sector’s chart of accounts, using the example of the Enea Group, which ultimately leads to changes in the structure of the integrated report and finally in the ESG report. This study is of a theoretical and conceptual nature. As a result of the triangulation of the scientific methods used in this article, it was found that neither the accounting policy nor the company’s chart of accounts have so far presented correct records of costs related to environmental protection, which implies the development and proposal of implementing changes in this area. The research sample is limited to three years and includes a case study of the Enea Group. The presented discussion allows us to fill the research gap in the scope of information on the activities undertaken by the Enea Group for the protection of the natural environment and the costs of environmental protection incurred. The added value is the original structure of the integrated report presented by the authors and ultimately the ESG report of the energy group and adapting the accounting policy to environmental challenges.
Heavy Metal Toxicity on Daphnia magna
Authors: Cojocaru Paula , Pastia Maria-Cătălina , Biali Gabriela , Cojocaru Cristian
Published: February 2025

This study analyzes the acute toxicity of Zn2+, Cd2+, and Cu2+ on water fleas. The hatching rate of D. magna ephippia was monitored under the influence of the pollutant at concentrations of 0.1 mg/L, 0.2 mg/L, 0.3 mg/L, 0.4 mg/L, 0.5 mg/L, and 1.0 mg/L over an exposure period of 42 h−67 h. The mortality rate of newborns was determined comparing with the control sample at 12 h, 24 h, and 48 h, as well as with the lethal concentration 50% (LC50). The results showed that Zn2+ appears to be less toxic to D. magna compared to Cd2+ and Cu2+, even at high concentrations, suggesting a greater tolerance of the ephippia to this metal. Newborn mortality increased significantly with higher concentrations and longer exposure times, with Cd2+ causing mortality rates of up to 100% after 48 h. In contrast, Zn2+ exhibited lower toxicity, although mortality increased with high concentrations and extended exposure periods.
Phenotypic and RNA-seq Profiles Identified Key Pathways and Genes Involved in Gleditsioside Biosynthesis in Gleditsia sinensis Lam.
Authors: Wang Jing , Yang Yuzhang , Liu Yanping , Liu Jiahao , Xiao Dandan , Chen Hui , Wang Chun , Fu Tiantian , Chang Fuli , Wang Yanwei , Fan Dingchen
Published: February 2025

Gleditsia sinensis Lam. (G. sinensis) is a widely known medicinal plant, and its primary bioactive compound is gleditsioside. So far, the significant economic and medicinal value of gleditsioside has been widely recognized. However, the transcriptional regulation governing the biosynthesis of gleditsioside during G. sinensis pod development remains unclear. In this investigation, we observed that gleditsioside levels increased in the pods of G. sinensis from June to November, and we performed a transcriptome analysis to explore the phenomenon. A total of 703 and 162 differentially expressed unigenes (DEGs) were identified in the terpenoid backbone and triterpenoid biosynthesis pathways, respectively. In total, 99 unigenes encoding 17 enzymes, such as ENIN, cytochrome P450 (CYP93E1), and UDP-glucosyltransferase, were identified in the gleditsioside biosynthesis pathway. Moreover, DEGs encoding crucial enzymes, such as HMGCR and AGBH, might determine gleditsioside synthesis during G. sinensis pod development. Interestingly, the gleditsioside synthesis pathway extended to ten metabolic pathways, including the sterol biosynthesis pathway and the brassinolide biosynthesis pathway, among other pathways involved in various hormonal regulations. These pathways shared the same precursor substances (IPP and DMAPP). In addition, weighted gene correlation network analysis (WGCNA) revealed that CL5845.Contig1 (HMGCR) and CL8823.Contig2 (LUP4) might be involved in the gleditsioside biosynthesis. Furthermore, transient transformation validation experiments demonstrated overexpression of CL5845.Contig1 (HMGCR), CL8823.Contig2 (LUP4), and CL11248.Contig4 (CYP93E1) significantly enhanced gleditsioside biosynthesis. Overall, our findings provide important genetic resources for future functional research and new insights into the basic mechanism of saponin biosynthesis.
Environmental Stability of the Simulated Forest Immersion Therapy (SFIT) Intervention
Authors: Ross Amy Miner , Jones Reo J. F. , Deterding Kylee , Rasmussen Ella
Published: February 2025

Background: Shinrin-yoku, forest bathing, has been shown to improve the pain experience in arthritis patients and the immune system in normal healthy patients. Yet, a simulated forest immersion therapy (SFIT) experience has not been tested in these two populations and specifically not in cancer patients. If SFIT complementary therapy in these two populations progresses, the intervention environment as designed needs to be tested. The purpose of this paper is to describe the SFIT setting and test the stability of the interventional environment. Methods: To operationalize SFIT, a protocol of dose delivery was designed and measured. Ambient and surface room temperatures, relative humidity, ambient ultrafine particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds, specifically terpenes, were measured prior to terpene dose delivery, every 15 min for 1 h, ending with the conclusion of terpene delivery. Results: There were nearly imperceptible differences within session means for ambient and surface room temperatures, relative humidity, ambient ultrafine particulate matter, and volatile organic compounds showing no practical significance. Room temperature and surface temperature were moderately correlated, as expected. Conclusions: The intervention room environment for the diffusion of terpenes remained stable throughout two studies. The next steps proposal to employ SFIT in the home setting is warranted, with precautions.
Edge Intelligence: Edge Computing for 5G and the Internet of Things
Authors: Zhou Yuezhi , Chen Xu
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the field of artificial intelligence has made a revolutionary breakthrough [...]
Existence and Hyers–Ulam Stability Analysis of Nonlinear Multi-Term Ψ-Caputo Fractional Differential Equations Incorporating Infinite Delay
Authors: Xiong Yating , Elbukhari Abu Bakr , Dong Qixiang
Published: February 2025

The aim of the paper is to prove the existence results and Hyers–Ulam stability to nonlinear multi-term Ψ-Caputo fractional differential equations with infinite delay. Some specified assumptions are supposed to be satisfied by the nonlinear item and the delayed term. The Leray–Schauder alternative theorem and the Banach contraction principle are utilized to analyze the existence and uniqueness of solutions for infinite delay problems. Some new inequalities are presented in this paper for delayed fractional differential equations as auxiliary results, which are convenient for analyzing Hyers–Ulam stability. Some examples are discussed to illustrate the obtained results.
Optimizing Chickpea Cooking Water (Aquafaba): Enhancing Superior Foaming and Emulsifying Properties Through Concentration Protocols
Authors: Koriyama Takako , Iijima Kumiko , Hosoya Takahiro
Published: February 2025

Aquafaba, the viscous liquid obtained from cooking chickpeas, has gained significant attention in the food industry due to its remarkable foaming and emulsifying properties, positioning it as a promising plant-based alternative to egg whites. This study investigated the effects of reheating on aquafaba’s functional properties, with a focus on its compositional concentration and molecular structural changes. Reheating was found to enhance both foaming and emulsifying capacities, with the most favorable results observed when the remaining liquid ratio was adjusted to 70–50%. Detailed molecular size analysis identified proteins and carbohydrates in the 30–100 kDa range as critical contributors to foam formation and stability. Furthermore, enzymatic treatments revealed that the synergistic interactions between proteins, pectins, and carbohydrates are key to aquafaba’s multifunctionality, enabling it to replicate the desirable properties of egg whites in various food applications. These findings not only advance our understanding of aquafaba’s molecular mechanisms but also demonstrate the potential of reheating as a practical strategy to optimize its properties for a wider range of culinary and industrial uses. This study underscores aquafaba’s versatility and highlights its role as a sustainable, plant-based ingredient capable of meeting the growing demand for vegan and allergen-free food products.
An Extensive Gap Junction Neural Network Modulates Caenorhabditis elegans Aversive Behavior
Authors: Sojka Savannah E. , Ezak Meredith J. , Polk Emily A. , Bischer Andrew P. , Neyland Katherine E. , Wojtovich Andrew P. , Ferkey Denise M.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Caenorhabditis elegans rely on sensory perception of environmental cues for survival in their native soil and compost habitats. These cues provide information about nutrient availability, mating partners, or predatory and hazardous beacons. In C. elegans, the two bilaterally-symmetric head sensory neurons termed ASH are the main detectors of aversive nociceptive signals. Through their downstream connections in the nervous system, ASH activation causes the animal to initiate backward locomotion to escape and avoid the harmful stimulus. Modulation of avoidance behavior allows for situation-appropriate sensitivity and response to stimuli. We previously reported a role for gap junctions in the transport of regulatory cGMP to the ASHs where it functions to dampen avoidance responses. Methods: Here, we used genetic mutants and a combination of cell-selective rescue and knockdown experiments to identify gap junction proteins (innexins) involved in modulating ASH-mediated nociceptive behavioral responses. Results: We have characterized six additional C. elegans innexins that have overlapping and distinct roles within this regulatory network: INX-7, INX-15, INX-16, INX-17, UNC-7, and UNC-9. Conclusions: This work expands our understanding of the extent to which ASH sensitivity can be tuned in a non-cell-autonomous manner.
A Composite Indicator for Primary Diabetes Care: A Cross-Sectional Study in Hungary
Authors: Jargalsaikhan Undraa , Kasabji Feras , Vincze Ferenc , Pálinkás Anita , Kőrösi László , Sándor János
Published: February 2025

Background: Since the effectiveness of primary DM care (PDMC) is influenced by both health-care-related and external factors, its indicator set must include indicators that are easy-to-understand for all stakeholders, such as composite indicator-based ranking. Objectives: Our study aimed to prepare a composite PDMC indicator, which is adjusted with the GP-independent characteristics of a GMP, in order to evaluate the usefulness of composite indicators in performance-improving programs. Methods: Using indicators standardized by age, sex, and eligibility for exemption certificates (on hemoglobin A1C, lipid status, serum creatinine, and ophthalmological examination, and on influenza vaccination) for Hungarian adult DM care, factor analysis was applied to create a composite DM care quality indicator (CDMI). It was adjusted (ACDMI) by a multivariable linear regression model of the association between structural characteristics of GMPs and the CDMI. Results: There were 516,052 DM patients provided for by 4784 GMPs. The CDMI exhibited significant associations with patients’ lower education (β = −0.139, 95%CI: −0.182; −0.095), GPs’ age over 65 (β = −0.083, 95%CI: −0.109; −0.056), GMPs with more than 2000 adult patients (β = −0.059, 95%CI: −0.090; −0.027), and urban location (β = 0.096, 95%CI: 0.058; 0.134). The average difference in GMPs’ ranks by the CDMI and ACDMI was 583. Extreme poor (N = 147) and extreme good (N = 176) performances of GMPs were identified, and those were categorized further by the role of GP-independent factors in causing the extreme performances (Nhealthcareunrelated = 84; Nhealthcarerelated = 239). Conclusions: Our findings suggest a stepwise and widely communicable process for PDMC monitoring, which starts with the evaluation of the CDMI and ACDMI to identify the GMPs requiring interventions, making a distinction between extreme GMPs requiring health-care-related interventions and those requiring non-health-care-related interventions.
Binge Eating Disorder and Metabolic Syndrome: Shared Mechanisms and Clinical Implications
Authors: Alagha Michel , Al-Alam Firas , Saroufine Karmen , Elias Linda , Klaimi Mark , Nabbout Ghassan , Harb Frederic , Azar Sami , Nahas Nayla , Ghadieh Hilda E.
Published: February 2025

Background: Binge eating disorder (BED) is characterized by episodes of uncontrollable eating, defined by the rapid consumption of large quantities of food over a short period. This condition is associated with a variety of psychological and non-psychological factors, including behavioral, biological, genetic, neurological, and pharmacological influences, all of which adversely affect patients’ daily lives. BED is linked to numerous health consequences, such as obesity, atherosclerosis, diabetes, chronic pain, and hypertension. Although BED is not exclusive to individuals with obesity, it is more prevalent in this population, who also face a heightened risk of developing metabolic syndrome (MetS). The latter is a cluster of five risk factors—obesity, hyperlipidemia, hyperinsulinemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia—that significantly increase the likelihood of chronic diseases. Methods: This narrative review synthesizes existing research to explore the association between BED and MetS, examining shared pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical implications. It also highlights the role of escalating food insecurity and ongoing political, economic, and health crises in the development of BED. Results: BED is significantly associated with MetS components, including hypertension, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and dyslipidemia, all contributing to increased morbidity and mortality. Beyond body weight, behavioral, genetic, biological, and neurological factors mediate this relationship. Conclusions: BED is strongly linked to MetS through shared behavioral, genetic, and biological pathways. Early detection, integrated management strategies, and further research are crucial to addressing the public health challenges posed by this association.
The Triad of Blood–Brain Barrier Integrity: Endothelial Cells, Astrocytes, and Pericytes in Perinatal Stroke Pathophysiology
Authors: Garcia-Martínez Tania , Gornatti Denise G. , Ortiz Marina , Cañellas Guillem , Heine-Suñer Damià , Vives-Bauzà Cristòfol
Published: February 2025

Pediatric stroke, a significant cause of long-term neurological deficits in children, often arises from disruptions within neurovascular unit (NVU) components. The NVU, a dynamic ensemble of astrocytes, endothelial cells, pericytes, and microglia, is vital for maintaining cerebral homeostasis and regulating vascular brain development. Its structural integrity, particularly at the blood–brain barrier (BBB), depends on intercellular junctions and the basement membrane, which together restrict paracellular transport and shield the brain from systemic insults. Dysfunction in this intricate system is increasingly linked to pediatric stroke and related cerebrovascular conditions. Mutations disrupting endothelial cell adhesion or pericyte–endothelial interactions can compromise BBB stability, leading to pathological outcomes such as intraventricular hemorrhage in the germinal matrix, a hallmark of vascular brain immaturity. Additionally, inflammation, ferroptosis, necroptosis, and autophagy are key cellular processes influencing brain damage and repair. Excessive activation of these mechanisms can exacerbate NVU injury, whereas targeted therapeutic modulation offers potential pathways to mitigate damage and support recovery. This review explores the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying NVU dysfunction, BBB disruption, and subsequent brain injury in pediatric stroke. Understanding the interplay between genetic mutations, environmental stressors, and NVU dynamics provides new insights into stroke pathogenesis. The susceptibility of the germinal matrix to vascular rupture further emphasizes the critical role of NVU integrity in early brain development. Targeting inflammatory pathways and cell death mechanisms presents promising strategies to preserve NVU function and improve outcomes for affected neonates.
Circulating Tumour DNA for Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis and Treatment Monitoring: What Perspectives for Clinical Use?
Authors: Asante Du-Bois , Tierno Domenico , Grassi Gabriele , Scaggiante Bruna
Published: February 2025

Globally, ovarian cancer (OC) is the eighth most common malignant tumour in women. Unfortunately, its symptoms—especially at the early stages—are vague and non-specific, and, thus, most patients are diagnosed at the advanced stages of the disease (stage III and IV) when treatment is not curative. The currently available approved biomarkers are not sufficient for effective screening, prognosis, or monitoring of OC. Liquid biopsy tests such as circulating tumour DNA (ctDNA) analysis has the advantage of monitoring response to treatment in real time and providing a comprehensive genotypic profile of primary, metastatic, and recurrent tumours. Thus, ctDNA analysis can be used as a complementary test for effective diagnosis and monitoring of OC. We comprehensively review current studies (2019–2024) on OC, critically highlighting recent developments and applications of ctDNA for the diagnosis and management of the disease.
Therapeutic Effects of DNase I on Peripheral and Local Markers of Liver Injury and Neutrophil Extracellular Traps in a Model of Alcohol-Related Liver Disease
Authors: Belvončíková Paulína , Feješ Andrej , Gromová Barbora , Janovičová Ľubica , Farkašová Anna , Babál Pavel , Gardlík Roman
Published: February 2025

Alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) is a leading cause of chronic liver conditions globally. Chronic alcohol consumption induces liver damage through various mechanisms, including neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation. Extracellular DNA (ecDNA), released from damaged hepatocytes and NETotic neutrophils, has emerged as a potential biomarker and contributor to liver disease pathology. Enzyme DNases could be an effective therapy for the denaturation of immunogenic ecDNA. This study investigated the circulating ecDNA and NET markers in ALD and therapeutic effect of DNase I in a murine model of ALD. Female C57BL/6J mice were fed a control diet (n = 13) or Lieber–DeCarli ethanol diet for 10 days followed by a binge ethanol dose to mimic acute-on-chronic alcoholic liver injury. From day 5, mice fed ethanol were randomized into an ethanol diet group (n = 17) and ethanol + DNase group (n = 5), which received additional DNase I treatment every 12 h. Liver damage markers were analyzed. Circulating ecDNA and NETosis were measured by fluorometry and cytometry, respectively. DNase I activity was analyzed with single radial enzyme dispersion assay. The ethanol-fed mice exhibited increased mortality, neutrophil infiltration and structural damage in the liver. Total circulating ecDNA levels and NET markers did not differ between groups. DNase activity was higher in ethanol-fed mice compared to controls and additional daily administration of DNase prevented liver injury. These findings suggest that alcohol-induced liver injury modestly influences systemic NETosis and ecDNA levels. However, increased DNase activity can prevent disease progression and enhanced systemic degradation of ecDNA using DNase I.
Rational Design and Optimization of Novel PDE5 Inhibitors for Targeted Colorectal Cancer Therapy: An In Silico Approach
Authors: Oladeji Samson Marvellous , Conteh Deborah Ngozi , Bello Lukman Abidemi , Adegboyega Abayomi Emmanuel , Shokunbi Oluwatosin Sarah
Published: February 2025

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths globally. Current treatment options including chemotherapy and targeted therapies face challenges such as resistance and toxicity. Cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP)-specific phosphodiesterase 5 (PDE5) has emerged as a promising target for CRC therapy due to its role in regulating cellular processes like proliferation and apoptosis. This study focuses on the in silico design of a novel PDE5 inhibitor MS01 derived from the lead compound exisulind which has shown apoptotic effects but failed due to hepatotoxicity. Using Schrödinger’s Induced Fit Docking (IFD) and molecular dynamic simulations, MS01 was designed to enhance binding affinity and reduce toxicity. The docking studies showed that MS01 exhibits stronger interactions with key PDE5 residues, particularly Gln817 and Phe820. ADMET predictions indicate favorable pharmacokinetic profiles, with reduced risk of drug–drug interactions and improved bioavailability. Toxicity assessments revealed that MS01 and its analogs have moderate toxicity, with MS20 and MS21 demonstrating lower hepatotoxicity compared to exisulind. These findings suggest that MS01 has the potential to be a more effective and safer PDE5 inhibitor for CRC treatment pending further experimental validation.
Mitoregulin Promotes Cell Cycle Progression in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer Cells
Authors: Stein Colleen S. , Linzer Connor R. , Heer Collin D. , Witmer Nathan H. , Cochran Jesse D. , Spitz Douglas R. , Boudreau Ryan L.
Published: February 2025

Mitoregulin (MTLN) is a 56-amino-acid mitochondrial microprotein known to modulate mitochondrial energetics. MTLN gene expression is elevated broadly across most cancers and has been proposed as a prognostic biomarker for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). In addition, lower MTLN expression in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) correlates with significantly improved patient survival. In our studies, we have found that MTLN silencing in A549 NSCLC cells slowed proliferation and, in accordance with this, we observed the following: (1) increased proportion of cells in the G1 phase of cell cycle; (2) protein changes consistent with G1 arrest (e.g., reduced levels and/or reduced phosphorylation of ERK, MYC, CDK2, and RB, and elevated p27Kip1); (3) reduction in clonogenic cell survival and; (4) lower steady-state cytosolic and mitochondrial H2O2 levels as indicated by use of the roGFP2-Orp1 redox sensor. Conflicting with G1 arrest, we observed a boost in cyclin D1 abundance. We also tested MTLN silencing in combination with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) and auranofin (AF), drugs that inhibit GSH synthesis and thioredoxin reductase, respectively, to elevate the reactive oxygen species (ROS) amount to a toxic range. Interestingly, clonogenic survival after drug treatment was greater for MTLN-silenced cultures versus the control cultures. Lower H2O2 output and reduced vulnerability to ROS damage due to G1 status may have jointly contributed to the partial BSO + AF resistance. Overall, our results provide evidence that MTLN fosters H2O2 signaling to propel G1/S transition and suggest MTLN silencing as a therapeutic strategy to limit NSCLC growth.
Sex-Specific Risk Factors and Predictors of Major Adverse Cardiac and Cerebrovascular Events in Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction with SARS-CoV-2 Infection: A Nationwide Analysis
Authors: Lekkala Sai Prasanna , Mohammed Adil Sarvar , Ahmed Hafeezuddin , Al-Sulami Meshal , Khan Jahangir , Desai Rupak , Ghantasala Paritharsh , Singh Hemindermeet , Ali Syed Sohail , Bianco Christopher
Published: February 2025

Background: Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is a condition with limited large-scale data on the short- and long-term effects of SARS-CoV-2 infection. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of major adverse cardiac and cerebrovascular events (MACCEs) in HFpEF patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 and identify sex-specific risk factors and predictors of MACCEs in this population. Methods: This retrospective study analyzed HFpEF patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 from the 2020 National Inpatient Sample (NIS) using ICD-10 codes. Patients hospitalized with HFpEF and SARS-CoV-2 were categorized by age (18–44, 45–64, ≥65 years). Multivariate logistic regression was used to adjust for potential confounders, with the statistical significance set at a two-tailed p-value < 0.05. Results: Among 109,750 HFpEF patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2, 31,960 (29.1%) experienced MACCEs. Males experienced a higher rate of MACCEs than females (31.1% vs. 27.5%, OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.12–1.28, p < 0.001). Adjusted analysis revealed that elderly patients (≥65 years, OR: 1.47, 95% CI: 1.33–1.62) compared with the 45–64 age group and males (OR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.12–1.28, p < 0.001) had a higher risk of MACCEs. Key predictors included prior coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG; OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.02–1.30), cancer (OR: 1.24, 95% CI: 1.08–1.42), and chronic kidney disease (OR: 1.15, 95% CI: 1.08–1.23). Subgroup analysis identified additional sex-specific risk factors. In males, hyperlipidemia, obesity, tobacco use disorder, prior stroke/transient ischemic attack (TIA), prior venous thromboembolism (VTE), alcohol abuse, depression, and valvular disease were significant predictors of MACCEs. In females, hyperlipidemia, tobacco use disorder, prior stroke/TIA, prior VTE, and depression were significant predictors. Conclusions: HFpEF patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2 have a high risk of MACCEs, with male sex, older age, prior CABG, cancer, and chronic kidney disease as key risk factors. This study provides the first large-scale analysis of sex-specific predictors of MACCEs in HFpEF patients hospitalized with SARS-CoV-2. These findings underscore the need for focused research and clinical gender-based strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risks in this unique and high-risk population.
A Non-Invasive Approach to Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Horvat Dalma , Orzan Rares Ilie , Agoston-Coldea Lucia
Published: February 2025

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a life-threatening cardiopulmonary disease associated with a poor prognosis, with progressive right ventricular (RV) failure being the main cause of death in this vulnerable population. Right heart catheterization remains the gold standard for assessing pulmonary hemodynamics. However, due to its invasive nature, non-invasive imaging methods are gaining increasing interest. Two-dimensional transthoracic echocardiography serves as the primary screening tool for PH and is widely used to estimate its likelihood. Nevertheless, this technique has several limitations, partially addressed through the assistance of a three-dimensional echocardiography. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (CMR) provides a comprehensive evaluation of both the morphology and hemodynamics of right ventricle-pulmonary artery unit, offering essential information for diagnosis, prognosis, and therapeutic monitoring. While two-dimensional cardiac CMR enables non-invasive characterization of pulmonary hemodynamics, advances in 4D-flow cardiac CMR allow for a more detailed analysis. These advancements enable the assessment of flow patterns, energetics, wall shear stress and severity, offering a more nuanced understanding of the disease. This review aims to provide an in-depth summary of the current data on advanced non-invasive imaging techniques for PH.
Pretreatment Prognostic Factors for Intradiscal Condoliase Injection in Patients with Lumbar Disc Herniation: Insights from Clinical and MRI-Based Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Nakajima Hideaki , Kubota Arisa , Watanabe Shuji , Honjoh Kazuya , Takeura Naoto , Matsumine Akihiko
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Intradiscal condoliase injection is a minimally invasive and effective treatment option for lumbar disc herniation (LDH). However, the appropriate use, efficacy, and potential outcomes of this therapy have to be carefully considered because condoliase can only be administered once in life. The aim of this study is to identify factors that predict the efficacy of condoliase injection before treatment. Methods: A retrospective analysis was performed for 115 patients with LDH treated with intradiscal condoliase injection. The patients’ background and MRI-based evaluations were used to measure various pretreatment parameters, including age, sex, symptom duration, comorbidity of psychological factors, disc height, herniated mass area, and contrast ratios within the disc and herniation. Clinical response was defined as a ≥50% reduction in leg pain on a numerical rating scale 3 months after treatment. Factors with significance in the univariate analysis were further examined using multivariate logistic regression. Results: Among the 115 patients, 73.9% had a ≥50% post-treatment pain reduction. The predictive factors for poorer outcomes included a longer symptom duration, psychological comorbidities, a smaller herniated mass size, a higher disc height, and a higher contrast ratio within the disc. No significant associations were found between the treatment efficacy and patient age or contrast ratio within the herniation. Conclusions: This study identified several pre-treatment factors that predict the efficacy of intradiscal condoliase injection for LDH. Treatment decisions should be made with particular attention to patients with a longer symptom duration, psychological factors, and fewer degenerative discs. The most important determinant of treatment efficacy may be how condoliase acts on the herniation mass.
Cervicovaginal Microbiome: Physiology, Age-Related Changes, and Protective Role Against Human Papillomavirus Infection
Authors: Alizhan Diana , Ukybassova Talshyn , Bapayeva Gauri , Aimagambetova Gulzhanat , Kongrtay Kuralay , Kamzayeva Nazira , Terzic Milan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections are the leading cause of cervical cancer. Developing evidence suggests that the cervicovaginal microbiome plays a significant role in modulating HPV persistence and progression to cervical neoplasia. This review synthesizes the current knowledge on the interplay between the cervicovaginal microbiome and local immunity in HPV infections, emphasizing microbial diversity, immune responses, and potential therapeutic implications. Methods: A thorough review of the literature was performed using Embase, PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar, encompassing studies published between 2000 and 2024. Studies examining the composition of the microbiome, immune responses, and HPV-related outcomes were evaluated and synthesized into a comprehensive review. Results: A Lactobacillus-dominant microbiome, particularly with L. crispatus, creates a protective environment through lactic acid production, maintenance of low pH, and anti-inflammatory immune modulation, facilitating HPV clearance. Dysbiosis, often characterized by a dominance of L. iners and overgrowth of anaerobic bacteria, fosters chronic inflammation, cytokine imbalance, and a microenvironment conducive to HPV persistence and progression. Hormonal changes and menopause exacerbate these microbial shifts, increasing the risk of cervical lesions. Studies suggest that cytokine profiles and antimicrobial peptides significantly influence local immune responses, further modulating infection outcomes. Conclusions: The cervicovaginal microbiome is a critical determinant in HPV infection outcomes, with therapeutic potential for modulating the microbiome to enhance immune responses and prevent cervical cancer. Personalized microbiome-targeted therapies may offer a novel avenue for managing HPV and reducing cervical cancer incidence.
Effects of High-Frequency Vibration on Residual Stress and Microstructure of Carbon Steel for Marine Structures: Comparative Analysis with Tempering
Authors: Xu Guanhua , Liu Feilong
Published: February 2025

To improve the safety and service life of carbon steel used in marine structures, appropriate regulation of residual stress in carbon steel is required. This paper investigates the effects of high-frequency vibratory stress relief (VSR) and tempering on the residual stress, microstructure, and surface hardness of 45 steel. After the high-frequency VSR and tempering at 200 °C for 30 min treatment, the microstructure is still tempered martensite. When the 45 steel experimental specimens were tempered at 600 °C for 30 min, the microstructure changed from tempered martensite to tempered sorbite, and the residual stress regulation effect of 45 steel experimental specimens was significantly improved. However, its surface hardness decreased significantly, which reduces the mechanical properties of marine structural components. Comparatively, high-frequency VSR is an effective method to regulate residual stress while ensuring that the microstructure of marine structural components does not undergo drastic changes. This study provides technical and theoretical support for the residual stress regulation treatment of 45 steel in marine engineering.
Optimizing the Hydrodynamic Performance of Unmanned Sailboats by Adjusting the Structure of the Keel and Rudder
Authors: Hao Zongrui , Li Kailin , Liu Gang , Liu Shixuan
Published: February 2025

The hydrodynamic performance optimization of unmanned sailboats is of great significance for achieving long-endurance, long-distance, and highly concealed navigation. Based on the existing design of unmanned sailboats, this study optimized the keel and rudder, proposed specific optimization strategies, and evaluated and determined the optimal structural scheme. Subsequently, a comprehensive analysis of the resistance performance, stability, and maneuverability of the unmanned sailboat before and after optimization was conducted using CFD numerical simulations and MAXSURF software. The results show that the optimized keel effectively reduces the contact area with water, significantly lowering the overall resistance of the unmanned sailboat. In terms of stability, the optimized design greatly improves initial stability, thereby enhancing the overall stability of the unmanned sailboat. Regarding maneuverability, the optimized unmanned sailboat achieves maximum steering force at a rudder angle of 15°, demonstrating excellent maneuvering capabilities. Overall, the results indicate that the optimized unmanned sailboat exhibits outstanding hydrodynamic performance, providing reliable theoretical references and technical support for the design and optimization of unmanned sailboats.
A Hybrid-Surrogate-Calibration-Assisted Multi-Fidelity Modeling Approach and Its Application in Strength Prediction for Underwater Gliders
Authors: Li Chengshan , Cao Yufan , An Xiaoyi , Lyu Da , Liu Junxiao
Published: February 2025

Multi-fidelity surrogate-based methods play an important role in modern engineering design applications, aiming to improve model accuracy while reducing computational cost. One of the widely adopted approaches is the calibration-based method, which calibrates the low-fidelity model through a discrepancy model between low-fidelity and high-fidelity models. Since discrepancies between models exhibit varying characteristics across different problems, using a single surrogate for discrepancy approximation may lack stability. In practical engineering design problems, it is often hard for designers to select optimal surrogate models. To this end, a hybrid-surrogate-calibration-assisted multi-fidelity modeling (HSC-MFM) approach is proposed in this paper. Specifically, this approach integrates three representative surrogate models, including the polynomial response surface, Kriging model, and radial basis function, to comprehensively capture the discrepancy characteristics between different fidelity models. Furthermore, an adaptive weight calculation method is developed to improve the modeling accuracy. Testing results demonstrate that HSC-MFM achieves enhanced stability compared to most existing methods while maintaining good prediction accuracy. Finally, the proposed method is applied to predict the strength of the frame for a blended-wing-body underwater glider, which verifies its engineering applicability.
Design of a Sliding Mode Controller for Lateral Motion Control of a Supercavitating Vehicle Based on a Radial Basis Function Neural Network Observer
Authors: Chen Shangze , Zhao Xinhua , Ye Xiufen
Published: February 2025

Newton’s second law has been applied to create a dynamic model of the lateral motion of a supercavitating vehicle, assuming a stable cavity. However, some states cannot be measured, and there is uncertainty in the lateral model. Aiming to resolve these issues, this work describes the design of a sliding-mode controller based on a state observer and a radial basis function neural network observer to realize lateral attitude control of supercavitating vehicle. Because there is a variable signal that cannot always be obtained in the established lateral model, the state observer is designed to estimate the unknown state; when there are unknown variables and model uncertainty and the state is unknown, the radial basis function neural network observer estimates model uncertainty. Finally, based on these results, a robust sliding mode controller is designed and system stability is proved by the Lyapunov theorem.
Data-Driven Analysis of Causes and Risk Assessment of Marine Container Losses: Development of a Predictive Model Using Machine Learning and Statistical Approaches
Authors: Yi Myung-Su , Lee Byung-Keun , Park Joo-Shin
Published: February 2025

This study presents a comprehensive, data-driven analysis of the causes and risks associated with container loss during maritime transport, utilizing incident data from 2011 to 2023. By employing advanced statistical analysis, machine-learning techniques, and data preprocessing, the study identifies key factors influencing container loss, including vessel size, incident locations, and primary causes. A predictive model based on decision trees was developed to assess the severity of container loss incidents, while K-means clustering was used to classify incident zones. Adverse weather conditions were found to be the predominant cause, accounting for 57.14% of incidents. The study reveals that larger vessels, despite experiencing fewer incidents, face more severe losses, whereas smaller vessels are more prone to frequent but less severe losses. The decision-tree model demonstrated high accuracy in predicting low-risk incidents but showed limitations in moderate- and high-risk scenarios. The findings underscore the importance of understanding the correlation between vessel parameters and incident outcomes to enhance risk management strategies. The study also highlights the potential for improving predictive capabilities by incorporating environmental data. These insights provide a robust framework for ship owners and maritime authorities to anticipate and mitigate risks, emphasizing the need for continuous monitoring and enhanced safety measures in maritime operations.
A Decade of Innovation: A Bibliometric Analysis of Advergames and Gamification in Tourist Destinations
Authors: Abusharieh Islam , Ruiz Mafe Carla , Küster Inés
Published: February 2025

This study presents a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the research landscape surrounding advergames and gamification in tourist destinations over the past decade. By analyzing 623 scholarly publications indexed in the Web of Science (WoS) database, this study identifies key trends, thematic clusters, influential authors, and collaborative networks within this interdisciplinary field. The findings highlight the growing importance of digital innovations in tourism marketing, particularly using gamification to enhance tourist experiences, promote cultural and heritage sites, and support sustainable tourism practices. The study also underscores the global nature of research in this area, with significant contributions from leading countries and the emergence of new research centers. The analysis provides valuable theoretical and practical insights, offering actionable recommendations for tourism marketers, destination managers, and policymakers on leveraging advergames and gamification to achieve strategic objectives. Despite its contributions, this study acknowledges limitations, such as the reliance on a single database and the need for more qualitative analyses. It suggests several avenues for future research to advance the field further.
Does Participation in Social Security Increase Chinese Farmers’ Willingness of Homestead Withdrawal?
Authors: Peng Shiguang , Wang Le
Published: February 2025

The compensated withdrawal of rural homesteads can revitalize idle land resources, which is of significant importance for both farmers and rural development in China. Drawing upon data from the China Land Economic Survey 2022, this study uncovers the impact of participation in social security on farmers’ willingness of homestead withdrawal, as well as its mediating factor. The main conclusions are as follows. First, participation in social security can increase farmers’ willingness of homestead withdrawal. This conclusion has passed robustness tests. Second, facilitating entrepreneurial activities is an important mediating factor through which participation in social security increases the willingness of homestead withdrawal. Third, rural entrepreneurship training and finance accessibility can both have a positive moderating influence on the positive relationship between participation in social security and the willingness of homestead withdrawal. Fourth, for farmers who experienced significant negative events in their households, the enhancing effect of social security participation on their willingness of homestead withdrawal is diminished, while for farmers engaging in farmland transfer-out, the enhancing effect of social security participation on their willingness of homestead withdrawal is strengthened. This study provides policy implications for China in promoting the exit of rural farmers from homesteads through social security policies, thus achieving rural revitalization.