bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microbiota-derived extracellular vesicles: current knowledge, gaps, and challenges in precision nutrition
Authors: Marquez-Paradas Elvira , Torrecillas-Lopez Maria , Barrera-Chamorro Luna , del Rio-Vazquez Jose L. , Gonzalez-de la Rosa Teresa , Montserrat-de la Paz Sergio
Published: February 2025

The gut microbiota has co-evolved with its host, profoundly shaping the development and functioning of the immune system. This co-evolution has led to a dynamic relationship where microbial metabolites and molecular signals influence immune maturation, tolerance, and defense mechanisms, highlighting its essential role in maintaining host health. Recently, bacterial extracellular vesicles (BEVs), membrane nanoparticles produced by bacteria, have emerged as important players in gut balance and as potent immune modulators. These vesicles reflect the characteristics of the bacterial membrane and contain nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and metabolites. They can regulate immune processes and are involved in neurological and metabolic diseases due to their ability to distribute both locally in the gut and systemically, affecting immune responses at both levels. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the characteristics and functional profile of BEVs, detailing how nutrition influences the production and function of these vesicles, how antibiotics can disrupt or alter their composition, and how these factors collectively impact immunity and disease development. It also highlights the potential of BEVs in the development of precision nutritional strategies through dietary modulation, such as incorporating prebiotic fibers to enhance beneficial BEV production, reducing intake of processed foods that may promote harmful BEVs, and tailoring probiotic interventions to influence specific microbial communities and their vesicular outputs.
Aclacinomycin enhances the killing effect of allogeneic NK cells on acute myeloid leukemia cells by inducing immunogenic cell death
Authors: Ye Yongbin , Liu Ning , Zeng Yunxin , Guo Ziwen , Wang Xiaobo , Xu Xiaojun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Natural killer (NK) cells, which exert spontaneous cytotoxicity against infectious diseases and cancer, also play an important role in leukemia therapy. Despite the success of NK-based therapy in the treatment of myeloid leukemia, the potential use of NK alloreactivity in these hematologic malignancies remains elusive. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether allogeneic NK cells combined with aclacinomycin (ACM) could enhance anti-leukemic functionality against an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell line and to clarify the underlying mechanism.

Methods

KG-1α and HL-60 AML cell lines were subjected to different treatments. The effects of different drug combinations on cytotoxicity, cell viability, and apoptotic status were examined.

Results

The results showed that the combination of ACM (40 nmol/l) and allogeneic NK cells (ratio 20:1) was significantly cytotoxic to AML cells and increased the apoptosis of AML cells, especially after 72 h of treatment. Subsequent analyses revealed that the expression of immunogenic cell death (ICD)-related molecules calreticulin, adenosine triphosphate, and high mobility group box 1, as well as NK cell effector production—perforin and granzyme B—was markedly increased in the combination treatment group. These findings suggest that ACM enhances the anti-leukemic activity of allogeneic NK cells through the ICD pathway.

Discussion

These results demonstrated that allogeneic NK cells had enhanced functional responses when stimulated with ACM in vitro, exhibiting superior effector cytokine production and cytotoxicity compared to the control, which contained conventional NK cells. In conclusion, the present study suggested that the combination of ACM and allogeneic NK cells is a promising therapeutic strategy against AML.
Differential transcript and soluble factor patterns in macrophage/enterocyte-like monolayer co-cultures based on apical or basolateral LPS exposure
Authors: Mazzei Aurora , Cucchiara Martina , Mortara Lorenzo , Bossi Elena , Schiavone Roberta , Verri Tiziano , Bruno Antonino , Barca Amilcare
Published: February 2025

Background

The monolayer of intestinal epithelial cells (IECs) plays a crucial role in controlling intestinal homeostasis, also by its interaction with the immune system, via paracrine cytokine production, thus driving innate responses by tissue-resident immune cells. Here, using a co-culture model, we investigated the interactions between differentiated Caco-2 cells in monolayer and macrophages, by mimicking the cross-talk between enterocytes and immune cells during gastrointestinal (GI) tract inflammation.

Methods

Caco-2 mature monolayers grown on Transwell membranes were challenged with apical or basolateral LPS. After stimulations, the enterocyte-like monolayers were transferred in co-culture with THP-1 derived macrophages. The functional impact of treatments was evaluated in terms of monolayer’s permeability, expression of mRNAs related to inflammation and immune responses and analysis of immune soluble factors present in the co-culture media.

Results

LPS effectively affected monolayer’s permeability and induced a pro-inflammatory transcriptional program in Caco-2 monolayers. Remarkably, THP-1 derived macrophages differentially responded based on the diverse directional source of LPS, previously administered to the Caco-2 monolayers. Basolateral sensing of LPS, by Caco-2 monolayers, induced specific increase of several pro-inflammatory factors such as NF-kB1, IL-6 and IL-8, at transcript level, in macrophages, while apical sensing triggering targeted increase of IL-1β expression. Significantly, the analysis of immune factors secreted in the co-culture media suggested that paracrine interactions between enterocyte-like monolayers and macrophages are differently driven based on the basolateral vs. apical inflammation, previously triggered by LPS against the epithelial monolayer, and thus involving different immune gene networks.

Conclusions

Taken together, our results suggest a framework of interactions between IECs and macrophages, depending upon the “polarized” inflammatory dysregulation.
Optimality and correspondence theories in phonological shifts: a case study on Arabic guttural consonants in English loanwords
Authors: Alhaider Siham
Published: February 2025

The standardization of loanwords presents challenges for borrowers due to phonological adaptations, particularly with guttural speech sounds. This case study examined native English speakers' articulation of Arabic loanwords containing guttural consonants, applying optimality theory and correspondence theory to investigate phonetic and phonological constraints. The analysis revealed that participants experienced difficulty adhering to constraints in their articulation, resulting in the omission, repair, or replacement of guttural phones in Arabic loanwords. Contrary to initial assumptions, the study found that deletion and replacement mechanisms were not exclusively position-dependent but rather determined by specific guttural sounds. For example, replacement occurred with sounds such as /χ/, /q/, and /g'/, while deletion was applied to sounds like /ʕ/, /ʔ/, and /ħ/. The repair strategy, however, was observed to be position-dependent, occurring only with words containing a medial guttural. These findings contribute to the understanding of phonological adaptations in loanwords and the interrelationships among significant linguistic groups, highlighting the complex nature of guttural consonant articulation in cross-linguistic contexts.
Evaluation of different erosion models for predicting guide vane wear in Francis turbine
Authors: Shrestha Rakish , Shrestha Kushal , Chitrakar Sailesh , Thapa Bhola , Neopane Hari Prasad , Qian Zhongdong , Guo Zhiwei
Published: February 2025

Guide vanes (GVs) are one of the components of the Francis turbine that are most vulnerable to erosion. Presence of hard minerals including feldspar and quartz cause erosion on the surface of GVs. This results in damage and disturbances in the functioning of the turbine. Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) methods are useful to estimate erosion but are dependent significantly on erosion models used for simulations. A three guide vane cascade (3GV) rig is a simplified setup that recreates the flow around GVs. Previous studies have used the setup to visualize the secondary flows around the GVs using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and CFD techniques that could be one of the major causes of erosion in Francis turbine. In this study, an Eulerian-Lagrangian approach with Reynolds Averaged Navier Stokes (RANS) based Shear Stress Transport (SST) turbulence model has been used to develop a numerical model of the same rig. The erosion caused by the sediment-laden flow has been quantified and visualized by employing Finnie, Nandakumar, Oka, and Tabakoff and Grant erosion models. This study has been conducted to determine which of the erosion model predicts the erosion pattern closer to the real case of eroded GV of Jhimruk Hydro-Electric Plant (HEP). The focus of the study is the clearance gap (CG) of the GV. By dividing the CG into sections and comparing the erosion predictions by different erosion models with the actual erosion, Finnie erosion model is found to be the most suitable model for this application. The severity and area affected due to erosion as predicted by this model is found to most closely match the erosion observed in the CG of the real hydropower plant’s GV, specially at three different locations: trailing edge of suction side (SS-TE), leading edge of suction side (SS-LE) and the middle of the leading edge (MS-LE).
Development of a colloidal gold-based immunochromatographic strip for rapid detection of Areca palm velarivirus 1
Authors: Lu Jie , He Weifan , Liu Yuxing , Li Shiqi , Huang Xi , Wang Hongxing , Cao Xianmei
Published: February 2025

Background

Areca palm velarivirus 1 (APV1), the causal agent of betel palm yellow leaf disease (YLD), has caused significant yield losses and decreased product quality of betel nuts, posing a serious economic threat to local farmers. There is an urgent need for a convenient and reliable method for the rapid detection and surveillance of APV1.

Methods

The Capsid protein (CP) of APV1 was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified as antigen to immunize BALB/c mice. Two specific monoclonal antibodies (MAbs), APV1CP-1 and APV1CP-10, were generated through the hybridoma technique. APV1CP-1 was conjugated with colloidal gold served as detection reagent, while APV1CP-10 was coated onto a porous nitrocellulose membrane to act as the detection line. Goat anti-mouse IgG was used as the control line. These components were then assembled into a colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip (CGICS) for effective detection of APV1.

Results

The MAbs APV1CP-1 and APV1CP-10 were successfully obtained with titers exceeding 1:102,400. Colloidal gold particles used in the assay had an approximate diameter of 30–40 nm, and exhibited a surface plasmon resonance peak around 530 nm. The CGICS allowed for the detection of APV1 by applying infected sap to the test strip, with results visible within 5–10 min. The test showed no cross-reactivity with other viruses tested, and the visual detection limit for APV1 was established at a 100-fold dilutions of APV1-infected leaf samples.

Conclusion

The monoclonal antibody-based colloidal gold immunochromatographic strip developed in this study demonstrates significant convenience, rapidity, and reliability for APV1 detection. These advancements are anticipated to facilitate rapid diagnosis and surveillance of APV1 in field settings.
Multi-omics-based phenotyping of AFG3L2-mutant lymphoblasts determines key factors of a pathophysiological interplay between mitochondrial vulnerability and neurodegeneration in spastic ataxia type 5
Authors: Oeztuerk Menekse , Herebian Diran , Dipali Kale , Hentschel Andreas , Rademacher Nina , Kraft Florian , Horvath Rita , Distelmaier Felix , Meuth Sven G. , Ruck Tobias , Schara-Schmidt Ulrike , Roos Andreas
Published: February 2025

Mitochondrial integrity is fundamental to cellular function, upheld by a network of proteases that regulate proteostasis and mitochondrial dynamics. Among these proteases, AFG3L2 is critical due to its roles in maintaining mitochondrial homeostasis, regulating mitochondrial protein quality, and facilitating mitochondrial biogenesis. Mutations in AFG3L2 are implicated in a spectrum of diseases, including spinocerebellar ataxia type 28 (SCA28) and spastic ataxia 5 (SPAX5), as well as other systemic conditions. This study employs a multi-omics approach to investigate the biochemical impact of AFG3L2 mutations in immortalized lymphoblastoid cell lines derived from a patient with biallelic variants leading to spastic ataxia (SPAX5). Our proteomic analysis revealed AFG3L2 impairment, with significant dysregulation of proteins critical for mitochondrial function, cytoskeletal integrity, and cellular metabolism. Specifically, disruptions were observed in mitochondrial dynamics and calcium homeostasis, alongside downregulation of key proteins like COX11, a copper chaperone for complex IV assembly, and NFU1, an iron-sulfur cluster protein linked to spastic paraparesis and infection-related worsening. Lipidomic analysis highlighted substantial alterations in lipid composition, with significant decreases in sphingomyelins, phosphatidylethanolamine, and phosphatidylcholine, reflecting disruptions in lipid metabolism and membrane integrity. Metabolomic profiling did not reveal any significant findings. Our comprehensive investigation into loss of functional AFG3L2 elucidates a pathophysiology extending beyond mitochondrial proteostasis, implicating a wide array of cellular processes. The findings reveal substantial cellular disturbances at multiple levels, contributing to neurodegeneration through disrupted mitochondrial respiratory chain, calcium homeostasis, cytoskeletal integrity, and altered lipid homeostasis. This study underscores the complexity of SPAX5 pathophysiology and the importance of multi-omics approaches in developing effective strategies to address the impact of loss of functional AFG3L2. Our data also highlight the value of immortalized lymphoblastoid cells as a tool for pre-clinical testing and research, offering a detailed biochemical fingerprint that enhances our understanding of SPAX5 and identifies potential areas for further investigation.
Disease phenotypic and outcome of very-early onset inflammatory bowel disease in Asian children: an understudied population
Authors: Lee Way-Seah , Chew Kee-Seang , Huang James-Guoxian , Tanpowpong Pornthep , Mercado Karen S. C. , Reodica Almida , Logarajah Veena , Hathagoda K. L. W. , Rajindrajith Shaman , Wong Yoko Kin-Yoke , Treepongkaruna Suporn , Aw Marion Margaret
Published: February 2025

Background

There is a paucity of knowledge on disease phenotype and outcome of very early-onset (VEO) inflammatory bowel disease (VEO-IBD) from recently developed and developing countries, including from Southeast Asia. We studied disease phenotype, clinical characteristics, management and outcome of VEO-IBD in South and Southeast Asian children.

Materials and methods

We extracted data from a multicentre Asian pediatric (onset <18 years) IBD registry. VEO- and later-onset pediatric (LO-p) IBD were defined as onset of disease <6 years and ≥6 years, respectively. We excluded monogenic IBD.

Results

Of 440 children with IBD cases; 112 (25.5%) were VEO-IBD; Crohn's disease (CD) 36 (32.1%); ulcerative colitis (UC) 68 (60.7%), and IBD-unspecified 7 (7.1%). UC was more common in VEO-IBD while CD more common in LO-pIBD (CD = 68.9% vs. UC = 25.9%; p < 0.001). Disease location/extent of disease and disease severity were similar in both age groups for both CD and UC. For CD, inflammatory disease behavior was equally common in both age group (77.8% in VEO-IBD vs. 76.6% of LO-pIBD), majority had isolated colonic disease (27.8% VEO-IBD vs. 36.3% LO-pIBD), while stricturing and penetrating diseases were not observed in VEO-CD, but noted in 4.9% and 8.4% of LO-pCD, respectively. Among UC cases, pancolitis was observed in 60.3% of VEO-IBD vs. 65.9% of LO-pIBD. Most UC never had severe disease regardless of age group. Five years after diagnosis, VEO-IBD were more likely to have corticosteroids, immunomodulators or biologics than LO-pIBD. Despite this, inactive/mild disease activity was the predominant outcome at 5 year follow up for both VEO-CD (98.2%) and VEO- UC (96.1%). Bowel surgery rate was 2.4% and 1.7% for VEO- and LO-IBD at 5 years, respectively.

Conclusions

Despite differences in disease phenotype at diagnosis, disease behaviour, location/extent and disease severity were similar between VEO- and LO-IBD, with a comparable overall clinical remission rates between both age groups at 5 years after diagnosis.
Guidance for shared decision-making regarding orchiectomy in individuals with differences of sex development due to 17-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency
Authors: Yu Lissa X. , Johnson Jodie , Pennesi Christine M. , Ernst Michelle M. , Strine Andrew , Matheny Antommaria Armand H. , Hopkin Robert J. , Sandberg David E. , Khorashad Behzad , Mohnach Lauren , Heider Amer , Rutter Meilan M.
Published: February 2025

17β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 3 deficiency is a 46,XY difference of sex development (DSD) that may present in childhood with inguinal testes or at puberty following virilization. We present four individuals, assigned female at birth, to highlight complexities and considerations surrounding orchiectomy. We reviewed the literature and created a “FACT sheet” to guide shared decision-making for patients, parents, and providers. “Ruth” presented at 16 months with inguinal herniae and underwent orchiectomy, based on parental preference. “Erica” presented at 13 years with voice deepening; she and her parents chose pubertal suppression and eventual orchiectomy. “Riley” presented at 18 months with inguinal herniae; after pubertal suppression and estrogen replacement, orchiectomy at age 13 years revealed germ cell neoplasia in situ. “Jordan” presented at birth with atypical genitalia and inguinal testes. Initially assigned female at birth, “Jordan's” sex was reassigned to male at 15 months; he subsequently underwent orchidopexy and expressed female gender identity at age 12 years. While early orchiectomy may eliminate pubertal androgens discordant with a female gender identity and remove malignancy risk, it necessitates pubertal induction and limits patient participation in decision-making. Fertility potential is unlikely; current fertility preservation protocols remain experimental for individuals with DSD. The stability of gender identity in this condition is difficult to predict. Postponing decision-making around testicular management allows the individual to meaningfully participate in the process and, if desired, undergo masculinizing puberty. Shared decision-making regarding testicular management requires consideration of predictions for gender identity stability, hormone replacement, testicular malignancy risk, and fertility potential.
β-lapachone suppresses carcinogenesis of cervical cancer via interaction with AKT1
Authors: Du Pan , Li Yue , Han Anna , Wang Mengying , Liu Jiajing , Piao Yingshi , Chen Liyan
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Cervical cancer is one of the most prevalent malignant tumors affecting women worldwide, and affected patients often face a poor prognosis due to its high drug resistance and recurrence rates. β-lapachone, a quinone compound originally extracted from natural plants, is an antitumor agent that specifically targets NQO1.

Methods

CC cells were treated with varying concentrations of β-lapachone to examine its effects on glucose metabolism, proliferation, metastasis, angiogenesis, and EMT in vitro. The targets and action pathways of β-lapachone were identified using network pharmacology and molecular docking, with KEGG pathway enrichment analysis. Its effects and toxicity were verified in vivo using a nude mouse xenograft model.

Results

β-lapachone significantly inhibited the proliferation and metastasis of cervical cancer cells by regulating glucose metabolism, reducing tumor angiogenesis, and suppressing epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in cells with high NQO1 expression. Furthermore, we identified the inactivation of the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway as the key mechanism underlying these effects. AKT1 was identified as a potential target of β-lapachone in modulating glucose metabolism and EMT in cervical cancer cells.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that β-lapachone inhibits the malignant progression of cervical cancer by targeting AKT1 to regulate glucose metabolism in NQO1-overexpressing cells, providing a theoretical basis for developing novel therapeutic strategies for cervical cancer.
Synergistic effects of 6-shogaol and hyperthermia on ACHN renal cancer cells: modulation of ROS and heat shock pro-teins in cancer therapy
Authors: Ahn Chae Ryeong , Baek Seung Ho
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Renal cancer is known for its aggressive progression and resistance to standard treatments, underscoring the need for novel therapeutic strategies. This study explores the potential of combining 6-shogaol (6-SHO), a bioactive compound derived from ginger (Zingiber officinale), with hyperthermia to enhance anticancer efficacy in ACHN renal cancer cells.

Methods

ACHN cells were treated with 6-SHO and exposed to hyperthermic conditions. We evaluated the combined effects on apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and cell proliferation, as well as the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and heat shock proteins (HSPs) in mediating these responses.

Results

The combination of 6-SHO and hyperthermia significantly increased apoptosis, induced G2/M phase cell cycle arrest, and reduced cell proliferation more effectively than either treatment alone. ROS played a critical role in these effects, with modulation of HSPs and heat shock factor 1 (HSF1) further disrupting cancer cell survival mechanisms.

Discussion

These findings highlight the synergistic potential of 6-SHO and hyperthermia as a novel therapeutic approach in renal cancer treatment, supporting the need for further research and clinical evaluation.
Pharmacological targets and therapeutic mechanisms of Arabic gum in treating diabetic wounds: insights from network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Chai Langjie , Chen Danyang , Ye Lili , Peng Pan , Wang Haijie , Al Saleh Nouf , Al-Kenani Nader S. , Guo Jia , Li Qianqian , Guo Liang
Published: February 2025

Background and objectives

On account of the long-term inflammatory microenvironment, diabetic wounds are challenging to heal in which advanced glycation end products are considered important factors hindering the healing of diabetic wounds. Gum Arabic has demonstrated significant potential in the treatment of various diseases owing to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Nonetheless, there is still insufficient research on the role of Arabic gum in facilitating diabetic wounds healing and its mechanisms. This study aims to investigate the pharmacological targets and therapeutic mechanisms of Arabic Gum on diabetic wound healing by adopting network pharmacology, molecular docking, and experimental validation.

Methods

Key active components of Arabic Gum and disease targets were identified through network pharmacology and bioinformatics. GO/KEGG enrichment was performed to identify critical pathways. Cytoscape and AutoDock were used for targets prediction and molecular docking validation. In vitro, Transwell assay and tube formation assay were performed to evaluate the effect of Arabic Gum on human fibroblasts migration and human umbilical vein endothelial cells angiogenesis. Western blotting analyzed Pro-caspase-1, ASC, NLRP3 and NF-κB pathway-related proteins. In vivo, a full-thickness diabetic wound model was established. Histological changes were assessed via H&E and Masson’s staining, oxidative stress levels through DHE staining, inflammation levels with IL-1β, CD68 and CD206 staining, angiogenesis and cell proliferation levels were assessed by CD31 and Ki67 staining. The levels of pathway-related proteins were analyzed by NLRP3 and Phospho-NF-κB P65 staining.

Results

Network pharmacology analysis identified key targets, encompassing HSP90AA1, STAT3, and PRKCB, involved in the AGEs-NF-κB-NLRP3 signaling axis. Molecular docking demonstrated strong binding affinity between AG components and these targets. In vitro, AG lessened AGEs-induced activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome via modulation of the NF-κB pathway and reinforced cell migration and angiogenesis. In vivo, AG-treated diabetic wounds exhibited accelerated healing, with augmented collagen deposition, lowered oxidative stress and inflammation, and strengthened cell migration and angiogenesis. AG promotes diabetic wound healing by modulating the AGEs-NF-κB-NLRP3 axis, exerting anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, pro-angiogenic, and cell-proliferative effects.

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into diabetic wound repair and suggests that AG is a promising therapeutic agent for improving diabetic wound healing.
Comparisons of urinary bladder responses to common antimuscarinics reveals unique effects of darifenacin
Authors: Veer Vineesha , Chess-Williams Russ , Moro Christian
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Antimuscarinics are the first-line pharmaceutical treatment for overactive bladder (OAB). However, some literature suggests that responses to these antimuscarinics can influence a variety of non-muscarinic receptors. This study aimed to identify any non-muscarinic influences on contraction from commonly prescribed clinical antimuscarinics using porcine detrusor or urothelium with lamina propria (U&LP) tissues.

Methods

Porcine bladders were dissected into strips of juvenile or adult detrusor or U&LP. Carbachol concentration-response curves were performed on paired tissues in the absence or presence of commonly prescribed antimuscarinics: darifenacin, fesoterodine, oxybutynin, solifenacin, trospium, and tolterodine. Estimated affinities for each antimuscarinic were calculated, and maximum contraction values from control and intervention curves were compared. Experiments in the presence of darifenacin (100 nM) were completed with serotonin (100 µM), prostaglandin E2 (10 µM), histamine (100 µM), αβ-methylene-ATP (10 µM), angiotensin II (100 nM), neurokinin A (300 nM), and carbachol (10 µM).

Results

Darifenacin significantly reduced maximum contraction responses to carbachol in adult detrusor preparations by 46%, αβ-methylene-ATP by 50%, prostaglandin E2 by 73%, histamine by 64%, and serotonin by 53%. Darifenacin reduced the maximum contraction in adult U&LP preparations to carbachol by 49% and to αβ-methylene-ATP by 35%.

Discussion

Darifenacin presents as an antimuscarinic medication that influences non-muscarinic pathways in urinary bladder tissue, indicating its potential to assist OAB patients with non-muscarinic pathophysiology.
Rapid and accurate detection of peanut pod appearance quality based on lightweight and improved YOLOv5_SSE model
Authors: Liu Zhixia , Zhong Xilin , Wang Chunyu , Wu Guozhen , He Fengyu , Wang Jing , Yang Dexu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

With the escalating demands for agricultural product quality in modern agriculture, peanuts, as a crucial economic crop, have their pod appearance quality directly influencing market value and consumer acceptance. Traditionally, the visual inspection of peanut pod appearance quality relies heavily on manual labor, which is not only labor-intensive and inefficient but also susceptible to subjective judgments from inspectors, thereby compromising the consistency and accuracy of inspection outcomes. Consequently, the development of a rapid, accurate, and automated inspection system holds significant importance for enhancing production efficiency and quality control in the peanut industry.

Methods

This study introduces the optimization and iteration of the YOLOv5s model, aiming to swiftly and precisely identify high-quality peanuts, peanuts with mechanical damage, moldy peanuts, and germinated peanuts. The CSPDarkNet53 network of the YOLOv5s model was substituted with the ShuffleNetv2 backbone network to reduce the model’s weight. Various attention mechanisms were explored for integration and substitution with the backbone network to enhance model performance. Furthermore, the substitution of various loss functions was investigated, with the Focal-EIoU loss function employed as the regression loss term for predicting bounding boxes, thereby improving inference accuracy.

Results

Compared to the YOLOv5s network model, SSE-YOLOv5s boasts a mere 6.7% of the original model’s parameters, 7.8% of the computation, and an FPS rate 115. 1% higher. Its weight size is a mere 7.6% of the original model’s, while the detection accuracy and mean average precision (mAP) reach 98.3% and 99.3%, respectively, representing improvements of 1.6 and 0.7 percentage points over the original YOLOv5s model.

Discussion

The results underscore the superiority of the SSE-YOLOv5s model, which achieves a maximum mAP of 99.3% with a minimal model size of 1. 1MB and a peak FPS of 192.3. This optimized network model excels in rapidly, efficiently, and accurately detecting the appearance quality of mixed multi-target peanut pods, making it suitable for deployment on embedded devices. This study provides an essential reference for multi-target appearance quality inspection of peanut pods.
Wood density can best predict carbon stock in the forest aboveground biomass following restoration in a post open limestone mining in a tropical region
Authors: Mao Junyang , Xue Peipei , Chen Yuxin , Xiang Ting , Zhang Hui , Chen Cui , Yang Qingqing , Gong Wenfeng
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Reforestation has been widely considered to best solve this problem, but this requires an accurate estimation of carbon stocks in the forest aboveground biomass (AGB) at a large scale. AGB models based on traits and remote sensing indices (moisture vegetation index (MVI)) are the two good methods for this purpose. But limited studies have developed them to estimate carbon stock in AGB during restoration of degraded mining areas.

Methods

Here, we have successfully addressed this challenge as we have developed trait-based and MVI-based AGB models to estimate carbon stock in the AGB after performing reforestation in a 0.2 km2 degraded tropical mining area in Hainan Island in China. During this reforestation, seven non-native fast-growing tree species were planted, which has successfully recovered soil processes (including soil microorganisms, nematodes and chemical and physical properties).

Results and discussions

By using these two models to evaluate carbon stock in AGB, we have found that an average of 78.18 Mg C hm-2 could be accumulated by our reforestation exercise. Moreover, wood density could predict AGB for this restored tropical mining site, and indicated that strategies of planting fast-growing species leads to fast-growing strategies (indicated by wood density) which in turn determined the largely accumulated carbon stocks in the AGB during restoration. This restoration technology (multiple-planting of several non-native fast-growing tree species) and the two accurate and effective AGB models (trait-based and MVI-based AGB models) developed by us could be applied to 1) restore other degraded tropical mining area in China, and 2) estimate carbon stock in forest AGB after performing restoration.
Bibliometric analysis of global research on dialectical behavior therapy from 1987 to 2024
Authors: Shi Kuo , Zhang Li-Yi , Gao Bing-Ling , Qian Ying , Huang Xue-Bing , Yue Jing-Li
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study explores researches of dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) in mental health to provide an overview of current knowledge landscape and predict future development trends of DBT.

Method

The bibliometric approach was used in the study. Articles on DBT-related research were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC) database up to December 31, 2024, and analyzed using VOSviewer and CiteSpace.

Results

A total of 2,723 articles were analyzed. DBT research has grown significantly since the 1990s, with the United States leading in publication volume, citation impact, and academic collaboration. Research is primarily conducted in developed countries like the United States, the United Kingdom, and Germany, with limited contributions from emerging economies. Cognitive and Behavioral Practice is the most prolific journal in DBT research. Key topics include borderline personality disorder (BPD), suicide, adolescent interventions, forensic psychiatry, and family therapy. Recently, keywords such as “emotion dysregulation” and “mobile phone” have become research hotspots.

Conclusion

DBT research has evolved from early focus areas like BPD and suicide to studies on emotion dysregulation mechanisms and digital interventions. While the United States dominates the field, expanding participation from emerging countries and strengthening global collaboration could advance DBT research and improve mental health accessibility. This bibliometric analysis provides a global perspective and long-term trend insights, highlighting future directions in neurobiological mechanisms, methodological innovation, and technological integration.
Psychosocial hazards and work-life balance: the role of workplace conflict, rivalry, and harassment in Latvia
Authors: Paegle Diāna Inga , Lakiša Svetlana , Matisāne Linda , Matisāne Monta , Paegle Linda , Mārtinsone Kristīne , Kamerāde Daiga , Krūmiņa Valentīna , Akmane Elīna , Ķule Amanda , Vanadziņš Ivars
Published: February 2025

Background

Even though the link between the psychosocial work environment and work-life balance (WLB) has been thoroughly researched, there is limited evidence evaluating the impact of workplace violence, sexual harassment, conflicts, and rivalry on WLB.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 2,471 respondents in Latvia from December 20, 2021, to July 14, 2022. WLB was measured through a survey question assessing the frequency of work-life imbalance, with responses categorized into dichotomous variables. The study evaluated the association between the selected workplace psychosocial hazards (conflicts, rivalry, psychological abuse, physical abuse, and sexual harassment), work characteristics, socio-demographic factors, and WLB by using binomial logistic regression.

Results

Our study reveals a significant lack of WLB among Latvian employees. A striking one-third of the respondents (30.9%, n = 762) reported experiencing this imbalance. The odds of WLB decrease with age, with the youngest age group having twice the odds compared to the oldest age group. Lower education levels and lower income groups also show significantly lower odds of WLB. Notably, those who have experienced selected workplace psychosocial hazards, such as sexual harassment or psychological abuse, have five- and three-times higher odds of work-life imbalance (aOR = 4.90 with 95% CI 2.06–11.67 and aOR = 3.47 with 95% CI 2.75–4.35, respectively). All types of conflicts at work significantly increase the odds of a lack of WLB. Our findings also indicate that WLB varies depending on various work characteristics, such as job position, work sector, company size, length of service, and remote or on-site work.

Conclusion

Our study highlights the importance of addressing WLB in the context of workplace conflicts, rivalry, violence, and harassment. It provides indirect evidence favoring leadership quality and manager training instead of employee training in diminishing psychosocial hazards. Practical implications include prioritizing leadership development programs focusing on conflict resolution and fostering a supportive organizational culture to improve employee WLB.
Proteome analysis of the prefrontal cortex and the application of machine learning models for the identification of potential biomarkers related to suicide
Authors: Rojo-Romero Manuel Alejandro , Gutiérrez-Nájera Nora Andrea , Cruz-Fuentes Carlos Sabás , Romero-Pimentel Ana Luisa , Mendoza-Morales Roberto , García-Dolores Fernando , Morales-Marín Mirna Edith , Castro-Martínez Xóchitl , González-Sáenz Elier , Torres-Campuzano Jonatan , Medina-Sánchez Tania , Hernández-Fonseca Karla , Nicolini-Sánchez Humberto , Jiménez-García Luis Felipe
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Suicide is a significant public health problem, with increased rates in low- and middle-income countries such as Mexico; therefore, suicide prevention is important. Suicide is a complex and multifactorial phenomenon in which biological and social factors are involved. Several studies on the biological mechanisms of suicide have analyzed the proteome of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC) in people who have died by suicide. The aim of this work was to analyze the protein expression profile in the DLPFC of individuals who died by suicide in comparison to age-matched controls in order to gain information on the molecular basis in the brain of these individuals and the selection of potential biomarkers for the identification of individuals at risk of suicide. In addition, this information was analyzed using machine learning (ML) algorithms to propose a model for predicting suicide.

Methods

Brain tissue (Brodmann area 9) was sampled from male cases (n=9) and age-matched controls (n=7). We analyzed the proteomic differences between the groups using two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and mass spectrometry. Bioinformatics tools were used to clarify the biological relevance of the differentially expressed proteins. In addition, this information was analyzed using machine learning (ML) algorithms to propose a model for predicting suicide.

Results

Twelve differentially expressed proteins were also identified (t14 ≤ 0.5). Using Western blotting, we validated the decrease in expression of peroxiredoxin 2 and alpha-internexin in the suicide cases. ML models were trained using densitometry data from the 2D gel images of each selected protein and the models could differentiate between both groups (control and suicide cases).

Discussion

Our exploratory pathway analysis highlighted oxidative stress responses and neurodevelopmental pathways as key processes perturbed in the DLPFC of suicides. Regarding ML models, KNeighborsClassifier was the best predicting conditions. Here we show that these proteins of the DLPFC may help to identify brain processes associated with suicide and they could be validated as potential biomarkers of this outcome.
Systematic review and meta-analysis of post-traumatic stress disorder as a risk factor for multiple autoimmune diseases
Authors: Mandagere Kevin , Stoy Savanna , Hammerle Nathan , Zapata Isain , Brooks Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Background

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is a prevalent and debilitating psychiatric illness that has been linked to poor health outcomes and increased risk of developing chronic health conditions, including multiple autoimmune diseases such as Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE), Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD), Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), and Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

Aim

This meta-analysis assesses the epidemiological research in this field and briefly explores the hypothesized neurobiological and immunological mechanisms that may underlie the association between PTSD and the development of Autoimmune Disease.

Methods

PubMed, SCOPUS, and Cochrane Reviews databases were searched for all relevant articles in August 2023. Studies were systematically screened for relevance and inclusion criteria by two reviewers before quality assessment and data extraction were performed. Fixed and random-effect meta-analyses were performed to evaluate PTSD as a risk factor for the development of specific autoimmune diseases. Subgroup analyses examining the roles of biological sex and PTSD severity were also performed.

Results

The initial search yielded 3010 articles where only eight prospective and retrospective cohort studies met criteria for inclusion in the meta-analysis. These eight studies were subdivided based on specific disease outcomes. Random effects model for risk of developing any autoimmune disease in persons with PTSD vs. control was 1.291 (95% CI = 1.179 to 1.412; P <0.001; n=1,984,310; 4 studies included). The strength of the association between PTSD and risk of developing specific autoimmune diseases varied by outcome condition from 1.142 (95% CI = 1.085 to 1.202, P <0.001) for risk of IBD to 1.302 (1.037 to 1.635, P = 0.023) for risk of MS. Random effects models showed statistically significant associations between PTSD and IBD, SLE, RA, MS, and Thyroiditis.

Conclusion

These results suggest that the risk for developing autoimmune conditions, including SLE, MS, RA, and IBD, is significantly increased in the setting of PTSD. This association may have important implications on clinical practice and research into the pathophysiology of stress disorders.
MRI quantified enlarged perivascular space volumes as imaging biomarkers correlating with severity of anxiety depression in young adults with long-time mobile phone use
Authors: Li Li , Wu Yalan , Wu Jiaojiao , Li Bin , Hua Rui , Shi Feng , Chen Lizhou , Wu Yeke
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Long-time mobile phone use (LTMPU) has been linked to emotional issues such as anxiety and depression while the enlarged perivascular spaces (EPVS), as marker of neuroinflammation, is closely related with mental disorders. In the current study, we aim to develop a predictive model utilizing MRI-quantified EPVS metrics and machine learning algorithms to assess the severity of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with LTMPU.

Methods

Eighty-two participants with LTMPU were included, with 37 suffering from anxiety and 44 suffering from depression. Deep learning algorithms were used to segment EPVS lesions and extract quantitative metrics. Comparison and correlation analyses were performed to investigate the relationship between EPVS and self-reported mood states. Training and testing datasets were randomly assigned in the ratio of 8:2 to perform radiomics analysis, where EPVS metrics combined with sex and age were used to select the most valuable features to construct machine learning models for predicting the severity of anxiety and depression.

Results

Several EPVS features were significantly different between the two comparisons. For classifying anxiety status, eight features were selected to construct a logistic regression model, with an AUC of 0.819 (95%CI 0.573-1.000) in the testing dataset. For classifying depression status, eight features were selected to construct a K nearest neighbors model with an AUC value of 0.931 (95%CI 0.814-1.000) in the testing dataset.

Discussion

The utilization of MRI-quantified EPVS metrics combined with machine-learning algorithms presents a promising method for evaluating severity of anxiety and depression symptoms in patients with LTMPU, which might introduce a non-invasive, objective, and quantitative approach to enhance diagnostic efficiency and guide personalized treatment strategies.
Association of work ability with job burnout and sleep quality among biosafety laboratory personnel in Xinjiang, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Ju Keke , Wu Ruikai , Yu Jing , Ding Lei , Xia Mengjie , Liu Jiwen , Lu Yaoqin
Published: February 2025

Background

In recent years, the importance of biosafety research has garnered significant attention due to its critical implications for public health and safety. Biosafety Laboratory (BSL) personnel face numerous challenges as they work with high-risk pathogens, including high-pressure environments, stringent safety protocols, and the risk of infection. Research indicates that occupational stress and burnout significantly affect the physical and mental well-being of laboratory personnel, potentially diminishing their work efficiency and capabilities. This study aims to investigate the effects of occupational burnout and sleep quality on the work ability of BSL personnel in Xinjiang, ultimately providing valuable insights for enhancing biosafety and improving work efficiency.

Methods

In July 2022, a cluster sampling method was employed to survey the staff of BSL in Xinjiang. The study utilized the Maslach Burnout Inventory, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, and the Work Ability Index to assess the levels of occupational burnout, sleep quality, and work ability among the BSL personnel. Statistical analyses were performed using R Studio 4.2.2 and AMOS 26.0. Through t-tests, analysis of variance, and logistic regression analyses, the study explored the current status and influencing factors of work ability among Xinjiang BSL personnel, as well as the interactive and mediating effects of occupational burnout and sleep quality on work ability.

Results

The prevalence of occupational burnout was 67.4%, while the prevalence of sleep disorders was 38.9%. Interaction analysis revealed that BSL personnel experiencing both occupational burnout and sleep disorders faced a risk of impaired work ability 21.43 times greater than those without burnout and with good sleep quality (OR = 21.43, 95%CI: 14.30–32.12). Structural equation modeling indicated that occupational burnout indirectly impacts work ability through its effect on sleep quality. The indirect effect was significant with a path coefficient of β = −0.28 (0.64 × −0.43), p < 0.01.

Conclusion

The overall work ability of staff in BSL in Xinjiang is relatively good. Occupational burnout and sleep quality are significant risk factors affecting the work ability of BSL personnel. Improving occupational burnout and sleep quality can enhance the work ability of BSL personnel both directly and indirectly.
The role of environmental efficiency and economic development in fertility: implications for public health and sustainability among OECD nations
Authors: Mu Renyan , Zhang Fuang , He Shidi , Zhang Jingshu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As global economies rapidly develop, the interplay between environmental efficiency, economic development, and public health outcomes has gained significant attention. Air pollution and resource-intensive economic activities threaten both environmental sustainability and human health, including reproductive health and overall well-being.

Methods

This study focuses on OECD member countries, using data from 1999 to 2021. An undesirable outputs-oriented DEA approach is employed to assess environmental efficiency across these countries. Baseline regression analysis is conducted to examine the relationship between environmental efficiency and fertility, while heterogeneity analysis explores the impact of industrial and energy consumption structures. Additionally, the moderating effect of economic development levels is investigated.

Results

The baseline regression results indicate an inverted U-shaped relationship between environmental efficiency and fertility, where fertility initially declines as environmental efficiency increases, then rises after reaching a certain threshold. Heterogeneity analysis reveals that industrial and energy consumption structures significantly influence this relationship across different regions. Furthermore, economic development is found to be a reverse moderator: in countries with higher economic development levels, the relationship between environmental efficiency and fertility follows a significant U-shaped curve.

Discussion

These findings highlight the necessity of integrating environmental policies with public health strategies. Improvements in environmental efficiency may reduce pollution-related health risks, indirectly supporting fertility recovery in advanced economies. By addressing the interaction between environmental efficiency, economic development, and fertility, this study provides evidence-based insights for designing policies that promote sustainable environmental health and equitable social outcomes.