bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solitary fibrous tumors: radiologic features with clinical and histopathologic correlation
Authors: Xiao Ying , Chen Jiaer , Yang Wenbin , Yan Hongfei , Chen Ruowei , Li Yangkang
Published: February 2025

Objective

Solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) is an uncommon mesenchymal neoplasm that exhibits a broad spectrum of biological behaviors. Few studies relative to clinical-pathologic features and radiologic manifestations of SFTs have been reported. This study aimed to correlate the radiologic findings of SFTs with the clinical and histopathologic features.

Methods

The clinical, surgical, and histopathologic records; and CT or MR images in 38 pathologically proved cases of SFTs were retrospectively evaluated.

Results

All tumors were seen as oval (n=18) or irregular (n=20), well-defined (n=36) or ill-defined (n=2) masses with a mean size of 11.0 cm. On CT images, most tumors showed a heterogeneous density on precontrast image, and the mean density of the tumor parenchyma was 40.7 hounsfield units. Intratumoral calcification was seen in 6 tumors. After contrast media administration, most tumors showed moderate to marked enhancement (n=34). Multiple intratumoral vessels were seen in 23 tumors. Collateral feeding vessels were seen in 19 tumors. On MR images, all 6 tumors showed a low signal intensity on T1 weighted images and high signal intensity with separate foci of hypointensity on T2 weighted images, as well as significantly imhomogeneous enhancement after contrast administration.

Conclusion

The presence of a large, well-defined, highly vascular soft tissue tumor with map-like enhancement and prominent collateral feeding vessels should alert the radiologist to the possible diagnosis of SFT. Diagnostic imaging coupled with clinicopathologic analysis allows accurate localization, identification, and resection of SFTs.
Cost-effectiveness analysis of sequential two-step screening versus direct colonoscopy screening for colorectal cancer: a large-scale survey in Eastern China
Authors: Fu Yun , Li Hao , Xu Ao , Yang Zhongrong , Zhang Peng , Wang Weibing
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Despite the implementation of colorectal cancer (CRC) screening programs in many regions worldwide over the past few decades, the cost-effectiveness of these programs has been questioned owing to their acceptance rates. In this study, we evaluated the cost-effectiveness of screening strategies, quantified the impact of colonoscopy acceptance rates, and analyzed the underlying factors driving individual preferences.

Methods

The cost-effectiveness of three strategies—no screening, sequential two-step screening (fecal immunochemical test and risk assessment, followed by colonoscopy), and colonoscopy screening—was evaluated from a societal perspective. This assessment was conducted using a decision-tree Markov model with the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio as the primary evaluation criterion.

Results

Sequential screening was more cost-effective than colonoscopy screening (19,335 vs. 27,379 United States dollars per quality-adjusted life year). Ideal sequential screening could prevent 32.2%(691/2147) CRC deaths, whereas colonoscopy screening at the same colonoscopy acceptance rate (20.3%) could prevent 17.6%(377/2147) CRC deaths. When the acceptance rate of direct colonoscopy surpasses the threshold of 37.2%, the resulting health benefits likely outweigh those achieved using a the sequential two-step screening approach.

Conclusions

Sequential screening is recommended for individuals in areas with constrained screening resources or during the early stages of regional screening program implementation. However, once screening habits are established, transitioning to direct colonoscopy screening becomes more favorable. Notably, reducing colonoscopy costs is the principal factor for enhancing an individual’s willingness to undergo the procedure.
Are all programmed cell death protein 1 inhibitors the same?
Authors: Lorch Jochen H. , Stein Stacey , Edelman Martin J.
Published: February 2025

Programmed cell death protein 1 (PD-1) inhibitors have revolutionized the treatment of many cancers, seven of which are approved by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). No head-to-head phase 3 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) comparing PD-1 inhibitors have been conducted so it remains unknown whether clinically meaningful differences exist between them. Preclinical studies that have directly compared PD-1 inhibitors support a differentiating profile associated with toripalimab compared to pembrolizumab and nivolumab with regard to their PD-1 binding sites, binding orientations, and impact on T cell function. Findings of similar or greater benefit among patients with low/no PD-L1 expression versus high/intermediate PD-L1 expression with toripalimab plus chemotherapy were also observed in advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma and non-small cell lung cancer for both overall survival and progression-free survival. However, determination of clinically-meaningful differences between PD-1 inhibitors requires sufficiently powered head-to-head RCTs.
The role of telomere and telomerase in cancer and novel therapeutic target: narrative review
Authors: Baylie Temesgen , Jemal Mohammed , Baye Gelagay , Getinet Mamaru , Amare Gashaw Azanaw , Adugna Adane , Abebaw Desalegn , Hibstu Zigale , Tegegne Bantayehu Addis , Gugsa Endalkachew , Adane Tadegew , Getie Gedefaw , Ashenef Baye , Sinamaw Deresse
Published: February 2025

Telomeres are dynamic complexes at the ends of chromosomes that are made up of protective proteins and tandem repeating DNA sequences. In the large majority of cancer cells, telomere length is maintained by telomerase, an enzyme that elongates telomeres. Telomerase activation is seen in the majority of cancer, which permits uncontrol cell proliferation. About 90% of human malignancies show telomere dysfunction and telomerase reactivation; as a result, telomerase activation plays a special role as a practically universal stage on the way to malignancy. This review understands the structural and functional of telomere and telomerase, mechanisms of telomerase activation in oncogenesis, biomarkers and therapeutic targets. Therapeutic strategies targeting telomerase, including antisense oligonucleotides, G-quadruplex stabilizers, immunotherapy, small-molecule inhibitors, gene therapy, Telomerase-Responsive Drug Release System, have shown promise in preclinical and clinical settings. Advances in telomere biology not only illuminate the complex interplay between telomeres, telomerase, and cancer progression but also open avenues for innovative, targeted cancer therapies.
Competency self-assessment for a learning-based autonomous aircraft system
Authors: Conlon Nicholas , Acharya Aastha , McGinley Jamison , Slack Trevor , Hirst Camron A. , D’Alonzo Marissa , Hebert Mitchell R. , Reale Christopher , Frew Eric W. , Russell Rebecca , Ahmed Nisar R.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Future concepts for airborne autonomy point toward human operators moving out of the cockpit and into supervisory roles. Urban air mobility, airborne package delivery, and military intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) are all actively exploring such concepts or currently undergoing this transition. Supervisors of these systems will be faced with many challenges, including platforms that operate outside of visual range and the need to decipher complex sensor or telemetry data in order to make informed and safe decisions with respect to the platforms and their mission. A central challenge to this new paradigm of non-co-located mission supervision is developing systems which have explainable and trustworthy autonomy and internal decision-making processes.

Methods

Competency self-assessments are methods that use introspection to quantify and communicate important information pertaining to autonomous system capabilities and limitations to human supervisors. We first discuss a computational framework for competency self-assessment: factorized machine self-confidence (FaMSeC). Within this framework, we then define the generalized outcome assessment (GOA) factor, which quantifies an autonomous system’s ability to meet or exceed user-specified mission outcomes. As a relevant example, we develop a competency-aware learning-based autonomous uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) and evaluate it within a multi-target ISR mission.

Results

We present an analysis of the computational cost and performance of GOA-based competency reporting. Our results show that our competency self-assessment method can capture changes in the ability of the UAS to achieve mission critical outcomes, and we discuss how this information can be easily communicated to human partners to inform decision-making.

Discussion

We argue that competency self-assessment can enable AI/ML transparency and provide assurances that calibrate human operators with their autonomous teammate’s ability to meet mission goals. This in turn can lead to informed decision-making, appropriate trust in autonomy, and overall improvements to mission performance.
COL7A1 indicates crucial potential as a basal membrane-related prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target in lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zhang Jiao , Zi Rui , Hu Ping , Jiang Zongying , Lv Ye , Zhang Haixia , Zhao Yanjiao , Wang Yan , Zhao Lujun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) is the most prevalent subtype of lung cancer. Basal membrane (BM) is important to the invasive processes of LUAD. Our object is to explore hub BM-related genes in LUAD.

Methods

The gene expression data of LUAD were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas and Gene Expression Omnibus databases. The weighted gene co-expression network analysis and differentially expressed gene analysis were used to identify candidates. Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses were used to evaluate their functions. Univariate Cox regression analysis was used to evaluate the prognostic value, and multivariate Cox regression analysis was used to verify its independence as a prognostic risk factor. The qPCR and Western blot were performed to ascertain the hub gene expression. The survival curve of two groups was drawn using Kaplan-Meier method. The hub gene-related immune characteristics were analyzed in independent cohorts by ESTIMATE and CIBERSORT methods.

Results

We successfully identified COL7A1 as a BM-related prognostic biomarker in LUAD, with elevated expression compared to controls, and associated with poor prognosis. Functional enrichment analysis revealed it was involved in pathways related to cell proliferation and inflammation like ECM-receptor interaction. Time-dependent ROC analysis results showed that the AUC of COL7A1 in predicting 1-, 3-, and 5-year survival all exceeded 0.78. Immune infiltration characteristic analysis showed that the higher COL7A1 expression group exhibited lower ESTIMATE scores and higher TIDE scores.

Discussion

Our study identified COL7A1 as a reliable BM-related prognostic biomarker, providing a new reference for the mechanistic understanding and target therapy of LUAD.
On the nose: nasal neurostimulation as a technology countermeasure for sinonasal congestion in astronauts
Authors: Ax Timon , Zimmermann Philipp H. , Bothe Tomas L. , Barchetti Karen , de Paiva Cintia S. , March de Ribot Francesc , Jensen Slade O. , Millar Thomas J.
Published: February 2025

Human spaceflight subjects the body to numerous and unique challenges. Astronauts frequently report a sense of sinonasal congestion upon entering microgravity for which the exact pathomechanisms are unknown. However, cephalad fluid shift seems to be its primary cause, with CO2 levels and environmental irritants playing ancillary roles. Current management focuses on pharmacotherapy comprising oral and nasal decongestants and antihistamines. These are among the most commonly used treatments in astronauts. With longer and more distant space missions on the horizon, there is a need for efficacious and payload-sparing non-pharmacological interventions. Neurostimulation is a promising countermeasure technology for many ailments on Earth. In this paper, we explore the risk factors and current treatment modalities for sinonasal congestion in astronauts, highlight the limitations of existing approaches, and argue for why neurostimulation should be considered.
Reciprocal longitudinal effects between sense of school belonging and academic achievement: quasi-experimental estimates using United States primary school data
Authors: Sakellariou Chris
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study investigates the bidirectional relationship between earlier sense of school belonging and later academic achievement in schoolchildren at grades 4 and 5 in US schools, using ECLS-K:2011 longitudinal data.

Methods

Two alternative estimation methods were used, both addressing biases due to endogenous covariates.

Results and discussion

The findings (sample size > 8,000 observations) provide strong evidence that (1) the dominant effect is from sense of school belonging to achievement, where lower bound effect sizes are substantially larger than those reported in correlational studies; and (2) in the opposite direction biases are small, and bias-corrected effect estimates are generally in line with the multiple regression estimates. The findings also provide suggestive evidence of larger effects for girls compared to boys in the direction from sense of school belonging to achievement scores. The study’s findings provide useful insights into the potential impact of school-based interventions.
Wind energy development in Norway: exploring the emotional landscape
Authors: Lundheim Sigurd Hilmo , Löfström Erica
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In Norway, despite ambitious goals for a low-carbon society, the extensive extraction of fossil fuels persists, accompanied by widespread climate skepticism. Wind energy is proposed as a solution but faces resistance.

Methods

This study examines the experiences of both developers and opponents of wind energy through qualitative interviews. Using appraisal theory, we classify emotional reactions, finding sadness and disgust as the most prominent negative emotions.

Results and discussion

Additionally, fear and frustration were prevalent, reflecting tensions between wind energy and individual values. Emotional reactions vary widely and suggest that opposition to wind energy is multifaceted. Opponents exhibit stronger emotional responses, while developers, representing business interests, show less intense emotions. We identified 23 key triggers for these emotions, which often can be seen as disruptions caused by the development of wind energy. Engagement, comprising cognitive, affective, and behavioral elements, is essential to addressing these conflicts. Early engagement gives stakeholders the opportunity to influence the process, thereby reducing the conflict level. This highlights the need for earlier and more inclusive engagement processes to foster meaningful dialog and uphold democratic principles.
The quest for systematization in educational psychology practice—the case of SDQ
Authors: Szulevicz Thomas , Arnfred Jon Busck
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The field of Educational Psychology (EP) practice is currently shaped by debates on the balance between systematized and situated approaches. This study explores these debates through the lens of the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ).

Methods

Utilizing data from a current research project, the application of the SDQ in EP practice was analyzed. The study involved analyses of SDQ responses and psychoeducational reports and interviews with educational psychologists who used the SDQ in their assessments.

Results

The findings indicate that the participating educational psychologists were generally satisfied with the use of the SDQ. Additionally, a significant portion of the SDQ responses suggested that many of the examined children exhibited symptoms warranting further investigation for ADHD.

Discussion

The article concludes with a discussion on the dual perspectives regarding the systematic use of the SDQ. On one hand, there are arguments for its systematic application On the other hand, while a standardized use of the SDQ ensures systematic information, the questionnaire also contributes to a specific framing of the issue. It is crucial to recognize that the SDQ, originally developed by a child psychiatrist and not specifically designed for EP practice, frames the understanding of issues in a predominantly psychiatric manner. This can lead to a narrow focus on diagnosing and treating perceived deficiencies, potentially overlooking the broader educational and contextual factors that influence student wellbeing.
The impact of depression and anxiety on the correlation between somatic symptom disorder and subjective cognitive decline in the Chinese elderly population: an exploration by simple, serial, and moderated mediation models
Authors: Lin Yongsen , Lin Pingzhen , Zeng Guiying , Wu Shufang , Chen Ronghua , Xiao Yingchun , Chen Hongbin
Published: February 2025

Background

Somatic symptom disorder (SSD) exacerbates subjective cognitive decline (SCD). This association can be significantly impacted by the mental well-being of the SSD patients. However, the underlying mechanisms remain obscure.

Methods

A total of 525 elderly patients, who visited the Department of Neurology of Fujian Medical University Union Hospital between October 2017 and August 2024, and the Department of Neurology of Quanzhou First Hospital Affiliated to Fujian Medical University between August 2022 and August 2024, were included in the study. Data of sociodemographics, medical history, somatic symptom disorder, subjective cognitive decline, depression, and anxiety were analyzed by simple, serial and moderated mediation models to evaluate the impact of depression and anxiety on the linkage between SSD and SCD.

Results

SSD significantly affected SCD. Simple mediation analysis showed that depression and anxiety significantly mediated the association between SSD and SCD (βdepression = 0.079, 95% CI: 0.030 to 0.132; βanxiety = 0.058, 95% CI: 0.031 to 0.093). Serial mediation analyses indicated that the worsening of SSD exacerbates anxiety, in turn aggravating depressive symptoms and SCD (βb = 0.044, 95% CI: 0.026 to 0.069). Moderated mediation model revealed that the depressive symptoms-conferred mediation of the correlation between SSD and SCD was moderated by anxiety symptoms (β = −0.073, 95% CI: −0.131 to −0.014).

Conclusion

These findings provided new insights into possible avenues for prevention and intervention of SCD through SSD-based treatments with a multifaceted approach to psychiatric disorders.
Symptoms of common mental disorders and suicidality among female survivors of war related sexual and gender based violence in one stop centers of the Amhara region, Ethiopia: a multicenter cross-sectional study
Authors: Michael Tsion , Demeke Solomon Moges
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Common mental disorders (CMDs) and suicidality are two of the most common psychological and mental health issues associated with acute and chronic sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the magnitude of symptoms of CMDs, and suicidality among females experienced SGBV in Ethiopia.

Method

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 407 female survivors of SGBV in the One Stop Centers of the Amhara region. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The odds ratio at a p-value of 0.05 was used to determine the strength of the association of the independent variables with CMDs and suicidality.

Results

A total of 407 women participated in the study. Suicidality was reported by a quarter of the survivors (24.1%), while CMDs were reported by nearly two-thirds (61.7%). Being widowed (AOR = 3.0, 95% CI = 3.0 [1.22, 7.66]), having a family history of mental illnesses (AOR = 7.1, 95% CI = 7.1 [4.07, 12.39)], being low-income (AOR = 2.8, 95% CI = 2.8 [1.64, 5.06]), and current drug use (AOR = 2.9, 95% CI = 2.9 [1.63, 5.16]) were all linked with CMDs. Having a history of abortion (AOR = 4.1, 95% CI = 4.1 [1.9, 8.5]), CMDs (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI = 4.6 [2.0, 10.74]), and history of suicide (AOR = 3.41, 95% CI = 3.41 [1.22, 9.55]) were some of the characteristics that were substantially linked with suicidality.

Conclusion

Females with SGBV had a high prevalence of CMDs and suicidality and calls for comprehensive remedies.
Frequency-dependent changes in the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuations in post stroke apathy: a resting-state fMRI study
Authors: Liu Ying , Hsien Yi-Kuang , Su Wenlong , Tang Zhiqing , Li Hui , Long Junzi , Liao Xingxing , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2025

Background

Apathy is a prevalent psychiatric condition after stroke, affecting approximately 30% of stroke survivors. It is associated with slower recovery and an increased risk of depression. Understanding the pathophysiological mechanisms of post stroke apathy (PSA) is crucial for developing targeted rehabilitation strategies.

Methods

In this study, we recruited a total of 18 PSA patients, 18 post-stroke non-apathy (NPSA) patients, and 18 healthy controls (HCs). Apathy was measured using the Apathy Evaluation Scale (AES). Resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging (rs-fMRI) was utilized to investigate spontaneous brain activity. We estimated the amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (ALFF) across three different frequency bands (typical band: 0.01–0.08 Hz; slow-4: 0.027–0.073 Hz; slow-5: 0.01–0.027 Hz) and the fractional amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation (fALFF).

Results

Band-specific ALFF differences among the three groups were analyzed. Significant differences were found in the typical band within the left lingual gyrus, right fusiform gyrus, right superior temporal gyrus (STG), and left insula. In the slow-4 band, significant differences were observed in the left middle frontal gyrus (MFG) and right STG. In the slow-5 band, significant differences were identified in the left calcarine cortex and right insula. For fALFF values, significant differences were found in the left lingual gyrus and right thalamus. Moreover, positive correlations were observed between AES scores and the ALFF values in the right STG (r = 0.490, p = 0.002) in the typical band, left MFG (r = 0.478, p = 0.003) and right STG (r = 0.451, p = 0.006) in the slow-4 band, and fALFF values of the right thalamus (r = 0.614, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study is the first to investigate the neural correlates of PSA using voxel-level analysis and different ALFF banding methods. Our findings indicate that PSA involves cortical and subcortical areas, including the left MFG, right STG, and right thalamus. These results may help elucidate the neural mechanisms underlying PSA and could serve as potential neuroimaging indicators for early diagnosis and intervention.
Influencing factors of depressive symptoms during pregnancy in Beijing, China
Authors: He Xiayue , Wang Xiaoqian , Li Guoguang , Zhu Simin , Wu Yifan , Sun Xiaotong , Wu Yuze , Hu Bo , Wu Jianyin , Feng Lina , Li Guihong , Zhang Lei , Wang Ning , Li Xuehan
Published: February 2025

Objective

Prenatal depression is a prevalent mental health challenge encountered during pregnancy and is notably associated with adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes. This study aimed to elucidate the likelihood and determinants of depressive symptoms among pregnant individuals in Beijing, thereby laying a foundational framework for the theoretical underpinning of prenatal screening and preemptive interventions for mental disorders.

Methods

The study dataset was derived from 4,564 pregnant individuals in Beijing utilizing a cross-sectional survey methodology. Data collection focused primarily on the personal and obstetric information of the participants. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) was employed as the primary screening tool to identify depressive symptoms.

Results

The prevalence of depressive symptoms among the included pregnant individuals was 4.1%. The univariate analysis results revealed statistically significant differences in the incidence of depressive symptoms in women with different parities, numbers of births, medication use, numbers of abortions, prepregnancy weights, and body mass indices (BMIs) (the χ2 values were 61.130, 52.008, 23.291, 5.293, and 12.681, respectively; P<0.05). There were statistically significant differences in the incidence of depressive symptoms among women with different occupation types (χ2 = 30.263, P<0.01). The multivariate logistic regression analysis results revealed that a greater number of pregnancies, number of births, and BMI were risk factors for prenatal depression, whereas the commercial and service worker occupation types were protective factors against prenatal depression.

Conclusion

Future directives should emphasize the enhancement of screening for depressive symptoms among pregnant individuals with greater parity and BMIs, alongside encouraging continued employment and flexible job selection. It is imperative to implement suitable intervention strategies for pregnant individuals exhibiting depressive symptoms to mitigate the incidence of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Examining the coupling relationship between industrial upgrading and eco-environmental system in resource-based cities in China
Authors: Lei Yu , Chen Yongxiang , Zhang Lanyue , Lu Yifu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The long-term extensive development of resource-based cities makes them face problems such as resource exhaustion, industrial structure imbalance, ecological environment deterioration, which urgently need to carry out green transformation.

Methods

In this study, Entropy-CRITIC-TOPSIS model and coupling coordination degree model were constructed to estimate and analyze the coordinated development level of industrial structure upgrading and ecological environment of 19 resource-based cities in Northeast China from 2010 to 2021.

Results

The results showed that the coupling coordination situation between industrial structure rationalization and ecological environment in 19 resource-based cities were unsatisfactory, and the proportion of uncoordinated development between industrial structure rationalization and ecological environment was as high as 89.47%. In comparison, the coupling coordination situation between industrial structure advancement and ecological environment were relatively better, with all cities’ industrial structure upgrading and ecological environment systems being basically coordinated or above.

Discussion

This suggests that resource-based cities in Northeast China should still focus on improving the rational allocation of resources, environmental protection, and coordinated development of resource utilization. The conclusion of this study provides a theoretical basis for the sustainable development of domestic resource-based cities, and can also be used as a reference for domestic and foreign resource-based cities or regions.
The relationship between public health expenditure and urban economic resilience
Authors: Chen Erdong , Zhang Huaxin
Published: February 2025

Achieving urban economic resilience is a critical objective for sustainable development in the face of external shocks. Public health expenditure plays a pivotal role in enhancing urban economic resilience by improving health outcomes, optimizing resource allocation, and strengthening economic capacity to withstand risks. However, the mechanisms through which public health expenditure influences resilience, as well as its regional variations, remain underexplored. This study utilizes panel data from 284 cities in China spanning from 2008 to 2021, constructing an econometric model that incorporates mediating variables such as technological innovation and per capita GDP, to assess both the direct and indirect effects of public health expenditure on urban economic resilience. Additionally, spatial econometric models are employed to further analyze the spatial spillover effects of public health expenditure. The findings reveal that public health expenditure significantly enhances urban economic resilience, with technological innovation and per capita GDP serving as key mediating pathways. Regional analysis shows that the impact is most pronounced in eastern cities, followed by central cities, while the effect in western cities is weaker and, in some cases, negative. Spatial analysis further indicates that public health expenditure has a significant positive spillover effect on neighboring cities, primarily through resource sharing and technology diffusion. This study suggests that optimizing the structure of public health expenditure, increasing infrastructure investment, supporting non-capital and resource-dependent cities, and promoting digital healthcare and regional cooperation are essential to enhancing economic resilience, fostering high-quality urban development, and advancing regional equity.
Advanced driving assistance integration in electric motorcycles: road surface classification with a focus on gravel detection using deep learning
Authors: Venancio Ranan , Filipe Vitor , Cerveira Adelaide , Gonçalves Lio
Published: February 2025

Riding a motorcycle involves risks that can be minimized through advanced sensing and response systems to assist the rider. The use of camera-collected images to monitor road conditions can aid in the development of tools designed to enhance rider safety and prevent accidents. This paper proposes a method for developing deep learning models designed to operate efficiently on embedded systems like the Raspberry Pi, facilitating real-time decisions that consider the road condition. Our research tests and compares several state-of-the-art convolutional neural network architectures, including EfficientNet and Inception, to determine which offers the best balance between inference time and accuracy. Specifically, we measured top-1 accuracy and inference time on a Raspberry Pi, identifying EfficientNetV2 as the most suitable model due to its optimal trade-off between performance and computational demand. The model's top-1 accuracy significantly outperformed other models while maintaining competitive inference speeds, making it ideal for real-time applications in traffic-dense urban settings.
“Plastic” Connections Between Neurons Help Us Learn and Remember
Authors: Di Fazio Chiara , Protopapa Elena , Palermo Sara
Published: February 2025

Learning and memory happen because of a special brain process called Hebbian plasticity. This process makes the connections between brain cells, called neurons, stronger when the neurons work together. These stronger connections help us think, learn new skills, and remember things. Scientists are studying how Hebbian plasticity works and using tools like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to change these brain cell connections without the need for surgery. By understanding Hebbian plasticity, researchers hope to find better ways to help people learn, improve memory, and even treat brain-related problems like depression or memory loss.
Water retention influences thigh skin temperature variation post-exercise: preliminary study of bioimpedance analysis and thermography data
Authors: Amato Alessandra , Petrigna Luca , Sortino Martina , Amorim Paulo Roberto S. , Musumeci Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the influence of body composition variables, focusing on the extracellular water level and gender difference, on infrared thermography detection during and post exercise.

Method

One hundred two participants were included in the study. Body composition was analyzed by bioimpedance, and three thermal imaging were taken before, at the end, and 5 min after a vigorous exercise. First, participants were divided by gender, and differences in skin temperature variation during exercise were highlighted. In the second analysis, the subjects were divided into three groups depending on the percentage of extracellular water. The correlation between body composition variables and skin temperature at the 3-time points was studied.

Results

an association between extracellular water (%) and basal thigh temperature both in the dominant leg (r: −0.27, p < 0.01) and non-dominant leg (r: −0.26, p < 0.01) was found; temperature variation analysis shows a significative temperature reduction between baseline and the end of exercise in both leg for (non-dominant: p < 0.001; dominant: p < 0.001) and a significative skin temperature increase after 5 min recovery, 0.14°C for the dominant leg (p > 0.05) and 0.12°C for the non-dominant leg (p > 0.05) considering the whole group. However, when we considered the separate group for extracellular contente the same significative decrease was found just in the lower water retention group (p < 0.05) and medium water retention group (p < 0.05). The high water retention group showed an opposite skin temperature trend in 5-min post-exercise recovery and had lower skin temperature at each time point compared with the other groups. The female group had lower skin temperature than the male at each time point.

Conclusion

Water retention could influence basal skin temperature and the temperature variation following vigorous exercise. A value of less than 45% of extracellular water should be considered for reliable use of thermal imaging. Further studies are needed to confirm this value.
Case Report: Traumatic obturator hip dislocation with subtrochanteric fracture in an 8-year-old child
Authors: Huang Shuming , Fang Kanghao , Xing Hailin , Lan Shuhua , Wu Quanzhou
Published: February 2025

Background

Obturator-type hip dislocation is a rare condition in pediatric patients, with the simultaneous occurrence of an ipsilateral subtrochanteric femoral fracture being exceptionally uncommon. Although various treatment methods have been described for hip dislocation or subtrochanteric femoral fractures, managing these injuries remains challenging due to the potential risk of femoral head avascular necrosis and concerns about fixation stability.

Case presentation

An 8-year-old boy sustained a traumatic obturator hip dislocation and an ipsilateral subtrochanteric fracture following a fall from a height. Closed manual reduction of the hip dislocation was performed under general anesthesia, followed by internal fixation of the fracture using an adult proximal humerus locking plate. After 3 years of follow-up, the patient showed complete fracture healing and achieved a full, painless range of hip motion without any complications.

Conclusion

This case describes a rare instance of traumatic obturator-type hip dislocation with an ipsilateral subtrochanteric femoral fracture in a child. It highlights an effective treatment approach for managing this complex injury.
A Training Algorithm for Locally Recurrent Neural Networks Based on the Explicit Gradient of the Loss Function
Authors: Carcangiu Sara , Montisci Augusto
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a new algorithm for the training of Locally Recurrent Neural Networks (LRNNs) is presented, which aims to reduce computational complexity and at the same time guarantee the stability of the network during the training. The main feature of the proposed algorithm is the capability to represent the gradient of the error in an explicit form. The algorithm builds on the interpretation of Fibonacci’s sequence as the output of an IIR second-order filter, which makes it possible to use Binet’s formula that allows the generic terms of the sequence to be calculated directly. Thanks to this approach, the gradient of the loss function during the training can be explicitly calculated, and it can be expressed in terms of the parameters, which control the stability of the neural network.
Harnessing Technology to Drive Coopetition and Value Co-Creation: A Service-Dominant Perspective
Authors: da Silva Agostinho Antunes , Cardoso Antonio J. Marques
Published: February 2025

Coopetition, the strategic blend of competition and collaboration, has emerged as a critical strategy for firms navigating today’s interconnected and resource-constrained global economy. While coopetition networks offer substantial benefits, such as fostering innovation, market expansion, and scalability, they are fraught with challenges like resource-sharing risks, trust deficits, and the inherent tension between collaboration and competition. Despite these hurdles, the transformative potential of technology in enabling and enhancing coopetition networks remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by integrating Service-Dominant Logic (S-D Logic) and institutional work to propose a comprehensive framework for technology-driven coopetition networks. It identifies seven systemic building blocks—coopetition actors, resource integration, service exchange, institutions, nested ecosystems, operand technologies, and operant technologies—that facilitate sustainable value co-creation. These components enable firms to navigate dynamic market conditions by fostering trust, collaboration, and innovation. This research emphasizes technology’s pivotal role as a transformative enabler and strategic driver, enabling real-time interaction, seamless resource integration, and institutional alignment. Institutional work is highlighted as essential for managing regulatory, normative, and cognitive dimensions to ensure the Adaptability and longevity of coopetition ecosystems. By providing actionable insights into the design and management of resilient, technology-driven coopetition networks, this study offers a roadmap for sustainable and equitable value distribution. It contributes to the evolving discourse on strategic business networks, empowering organizations to harness the power of coopetition in an increasingly complex global marketplace.
Autonomous Parafoil Flaring Control System for eVTOL Aircraft
Authors: Doran Stephen , Souanef Toufik , Whidborne James F.
Published: February 2025

Reducing landing kinetic energy during emergency landings is critical for minimising occupant injury in eVTOL aircraft. This study presents the development of an autonomous parafoil control system for impact point targeting and flare control. A model predictive controller for a six-degree-of-freedom parafoil and eVTOL payload model was designed incorporating an inner-loop flare controller for descent speed-based flare height adjustments and an outer-loop nonlinear model predictive control (MPC) to minimize line-of-sight error. Two guidance methods were explored: a standard fixed impact point approach and an adaptive method that adjusts the target point dynamically to account for horizontal travel during flaring. The standard method outperformed the uncontrolled system in 79.64% of cases, while the adaptive method achieved success in 40.73% of scenarios, with both methods maintaining vertical landing velocities below 8 m/s in all tested cases. Controller performance degraded under higher wind speeds and large control derivative variations, with the adaptive method position error attributed to flare distance estimation inaccuracies.
Effect of Nutrient Solution Activated with Non-Thermal Plasma on Growth and Quality of Baby Leaf Lettuce Grown Indoor in Aeroponics
Authors: Puccinelli Martina , Carmassi Giulia , Lanza Damiano , Maggini Rita , Vernieri Paolo , Incrocci Luca
Published: February 2025

Innovation in cultivation methods is essential to address the growing challenges in agriculture, including abiotic and biotic stress, soil degradation, and climate change. Aeroponics, a particular type of hydroponics, presents a promising solution by improving yield and resource use efficiency, especially in controlled environments such as plant factories with artificial lighting (PFALs). Additionally, non-thermal plasma (NTP), a partially ionized gas containing reactive oxygen and nitrogen species, can affect plant development and physiology, further enhancing crop production. The objective of this study was to explore the potential of NTP as an innovative method to enhance crop production by treating the nutrient solution in aeroponic systems. During this study, three experiments were conducted to assess the effects of NTP-treated nutrient solutions on baby leaf lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) aeroponically grown indoors. The nutrient solution was treated with ionized air in a treatment column separated from the aeroponic system by making the ionized air bubble from the bottom of the column. After 2 min of NTP application, a pump took the nutrient solution from the treatment column and sprayed it on the roots of plants. Various frequencies of NTP application were tested, ranging from 2.5% to 50% of irrigation events with nutrient solution activated with NTP. Results indicated that low-frequency NTP treatments (up to 5% of irrigations) stimulated plant growth, increasing leaf biomass (+18–19%) and enhancing the concentration of flavonoids (+16–18%), phenols (+20–21%), and antioxidant capacity (+29–53%). However, higher NTP frequencies (25% and above) negatively impacted plant growth, reducing fresh and dry weight and root biomass, likely due to excessive oxidative stress. The study demonstrates the potential of NTP as a tool for improving crop quality and yields in aeroponic cultivation, with optimal benefits achieved at lower treatment frequencies.
YS3AM: Adaptive 3D Reconstruction and Harvesting Target Detection for Clustered Green Asparagus
Authors: Mu Si , Liu Jian , Zhang Ping , Yuan Jin , Liu Xuemei
Published: February 2025

Green asparagus grows in clusters, which can cause overlaps with weeds and immature stems, making it difficult to identify suitable harvest targets and cutting points. Extracting precise stem details in complex spatial arrangements is a challenge. This paper explored the YS3AM (Yolo-SAM-3D-Adaptive-Modeling) method for detecting green asparagus and performing 3D adaptive-section modeling using a depth camera, which could benefit harvesting path planning for selective harvesting robots. Firstly, the model was developed and deployed to extract bounding boxes for individual asparagus stems within clusters. Secondly, the stems inside these bounding boxes were segmented, and binary masks were generated. Thirdly, high-quality depth images were obtained through pixel block completion. Finally, a novel 3D reconstruction method, based on adaptive section modeling and combining the mask and depth data, is proposed. And an evaluation method is introduced to assess modeling accuracy. Experimental validation showed high-performance detection (1095 field images demonstrated, Precision: 98.75%, Recall: 95.46%, F1: 0.97) and robust 3D modeling (103 asparagus stems, average RMSE: length 0.74, depth: 1.105) under varying illumination conditions. The system achieved 22 ms per stem processing speed, enabling real-time operation. The results demonstrated that the 3D model accurately represents the spatial distribution of clustered green asparagus, enabling precise identification of harvest targets and cutting points. This model provided essential spatial pathways for end-effector path planning, thereby fulfilling the operational requirements for efficient green asparagus harvesting robots.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analysis of the SPL Gene Family in Solanum melongena (Eggplant)
Authors: Cheng Hefen , Li Zhiliang , Sun Baojuan , Zhao Wei , Zhang Songyuan , Li Tao , You Qian , Zhou Dinggang
Published: February 2025

The SPL (SQUAMOSA promoter-binding protein-like) transcription factor gene family plays a crucial role in the growth of plants, including fruit development. Although the SPL gene family has been widely studied in many plants, it remains unexplored in eggplant, an important Solanaceae vegetable crop. In this study, we performed a genome-wide analysis and identified 11 SmSPL genes with 10 motifs in the eggplant genome, which were assigned to five groups based on the amino acid sequences and the gene structure of the SBP domain. In addition, the expression patterns of 11 SmSPL genes were analyzed in different tissue types and at four different fruit development stages in eggplant. The results showed that all SmSPL genes were expressed differently in various tissues, suggesting that they may play different roles in the regulation of the development of different organs. Specifically, the expression level of SmSPL_5 was increased at the fruit expansion stage and showed the highest expression levels at 16 and 24 days after pollination, suggesting that it may be involved in regulating fruit development at both the fruit expansion and commercial fruit stages. Overall, this study provides an important basis for further exploring the function of the SmSPL gene family in eggplant.
Public Perceptions of Calf Disbudding Techniques Used on Texas Farms
Authors: Calix Andrea D. , Lamino Pablo , Rodríguez-Mori Howard , Garcia Arlene , Artemiou Elpida
Published: February 2025

This study investigates public perceptions in Texas regarding two common calf disbudding methods used in dairy farming: caustic paste and hot iron. With growing consumer interest in humane animal treatment, understanding the preferences for these methods provides insights into public expectations of welfare in agricultural practices. The study utilized an online survey distributed to Texas residents via the Centiment research platform, assessing preferences, demographic influences, and the impact of scientific information on perceptions. Results, from 511 participants, indicated a stronger preference for caustic paste, especially among women and participants with higher education levels, while hot iron was favored more by men. Dietary habits, such as seafood and cheese consumption, also influenced preferences, with higher consumption linked to a preference for caustic paste. Viewing images of the disbudding techniques affected the willingness to purchase, consume, and serve beef, with hot iron prompting a greater negative response. The findings suggest that public knowledge and awareness can significantly impact perceptions surrounding animal welfare practices and that education could play a critical role in aligning consumer preferences with humane agricultural practices. These insights are valuable for the dairy industry, informing practices that are more aligned with public expectations and supporting the promotion of welfare-oriented disbudding methods.
Population Dynamics of the Widespread Alien Decapod Species, Brown Shrimp (Penaeus aztecus), in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Deval Mehmet Cengiz , Deniz Tomris
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the population dynamics, growth, reproduction, and parasitism of Penaeus aztecus over a 27-month period in Antalya Bay (Eastern Mediterranean). P. aztecus was the most abundant shrimp species, comprising 53.4% of the collected shrimp specimens. Abundance varied seasonally, with peak densities in summer. Males had a smaller mean carapace length (CL) of 25.8 mm compared to females at 30.2 mm. Females dominated larger size classes, with all individuals ≥ 46 mm CL being female. The sex ratio was balanced at 1:1, with no seasonal variations. Spawning occurred year-round, peaking in June, late summer, and November. Females displayed four ovarian stages, with the first mature size (FMS) at 36 mm CL. Parasitism by Epipenaeon ingens reduced the density of mature females, with 42% of potential spawners failing to develop gonads. The prevalence of parasitism showed seasonal variation and was inversely correlated with sea surface temperature (SST). Marine recruitment occurred from June to November, with a peak between July and September. Growth analysis revealed faster rates in females, while males reached a smaller maximum size. This study also identified inefficiencies in gear selectivity, with many juvenile shrimp (below recruitment size) being retained. Trawl efficiency improved with the use of turtle excluder devices (TEDs), which reduced bycatch of nontarget species, such as loggerhead turtles and cartilaginous fishes. The instantaneous total mortality rate (Z) ranged from 0.658 to 0.026 month⁻1 for male shrimp and from 1.00 to 0.014 month⁻1 for female shrimp, with survival sharply declining after recruitment, leaving only about 3.6% of individuals surviving beyond 10 months.