bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EBV-Induced LINC00944: A Driver of Oral Cancer Progression and Influencer of Macrophage Differentiation
Authors: Srisathaporn Sawarot , Ekalaksananan Tipaya , Heawchaiyaphum Chukkris , Aromseree Sirinart , Maranon David G. , Altina Noelia H. , Nukpook Thawaree , Wilusz Jeffrey , Pientong Chamsai
Published: February 2025

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a significant global health concern. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection as well as long non-coding RNA (lncRNAs) associated EBV infection, have been linked to OSCC development and are known to influence cancer progression. LINC00944 is associated with various cancers and immune cells, but its role in oral cancer remains underexplored. This study investigated the role of EBV-induced LINC00944 in OSCC and its impact on the tumor microenvironment. The LINC00944 expression was analyzed from a database of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) tissues, and its expression in EBV-positive and EBV-negative OSCC cell lines was examined via qRT-PCR. We overexpressed LINC00944 in SCC25 and ORL-48T oral cancer cell lines and evaluated its impact on migration and invasion ability using wound healing and transwell experiments. Additionally, we studied its influence on macrophage differentiation. The results showed that LINC00944 expression was higher in HNSCC than in normal tissues and was linked to EBV-positive OSCC cell lines. LINC00944 overexpressed-OSCC cell lines significantly increased cellular motility and invasiveness. Additionally, LINC00944 was secreted in a cultured medium, delivered to macrophages, and promoted macrophage differentiation into the M1 subtype. Predicted interactions suggested that LINC00944 targets miRNAs that regulate NFKB1 and RELA. In conclusion, EBV-induced LINC00944 contributes to OSCC progression by enhancing tumor cell migration, invasion, and macrophage differentiation, potentially regulating these processes through NFKB1 and RELA. These findings provide valuable directions for LINC00944’s future studies on its mechanisms and suggest that it could be a target of study in EBV-associated OSCC.
Inter-Reader Agreement in LR-TRA Application and NLR Association in HCC Patients Treated with Endovascular vs. Ablative Procedures
Authors: Castiglione Davide Giuseppe , Porreca Annamaria , Falsaperla Daniele , Libra Federica , David Emanuele , Maiuzzo Roberta , Castiglione Mirko Domenico , Mosconi Cristina , Palmucci Stefano , Foti Pietro Valerio , Basile Antonio , Galia Massimo
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to assess the performance of the LI-RADS tumor response algorithm in analyzing inter-reader agreement in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) treated with Microwave Ablation (MWA) and Transarterial Embolization (TAE) and the relationship between inter-reader agreement and Neutrophils to Lymphocytes ratio dynamic variations at different time points to explore how inflammation influences tumor response and its interpretation on imaging. Methods: A retrospective analysis was conducted on 78 HCC patients treated with MWA or TAE. Two independent radiologists evaluated pre- and post-treatment imaging and assigned categories according to the LR-TRA. Inter-reader agreement was assessed with a focus on subgroup analysis considering the different locoregional treatments. NLR values, measured at baseline (T0), 72 h (T1), and 30 days post-procedure (T2), were compared with patients with concordant and discordant LR-TRA assessments. This analysis aimed to identify any association between NLR dynamics and inter-reader agreement on treatment response. Results: The inter-reader agreement in the LR-TRA application was “substantial” in the cases of MWA treatment evaluation (κ = 0.65), and “moderate” in the cases of TAE treatment evaluation (κ = 0.51). The differences in inter-reader agreement were found to be expressions of different levels of NLR mean values in the different time frames evaluated. Three days after treatment, NLR increased significantly in TAE groups. At 30 days, NLR had returned close to baseline levels but with NLR persisting higher in the TAE group. There was a statistically significant difference in NLR between the “mismatch” group (those with discrepant LR-TRA readings) and the “match” group at 3 days (p = 0.004) and late evaluation (30+ days). Conclusions: This study has shown that NLR levels can predict inter-reader discrepancies in LR-TRA assessment and may be translated into different levels of difficult imaging interpretation. Combining LR-TRA and NLR is promising for a more comprehensive assessment of tumor response and inflammatory dynamics.
Antibody–Drug Conjugates Targeting CD30 in T-Cell Lymphomas: Clinical Progression and Mechanism
Authors: Jiang Yi , Dong Sai , Wang Yang
Published: February 2025

CD30 is overexpressed in many T-cell lymphoma (TCL) entities, including subsets of peripheral T-cell lymphomas (PTCL) and cutaneous T-cell lymphomas (CTCL). The antibody–drug conjugate brentuximab vedotin (BV), targeting CD30-positive cells, has been approved for the treatment of relapsed or refractory (R/R) systemic anaplastic large cell lymphoma (sALCL), and primary cutaneous anaplastic large cell lymphoma or mycosis fungoides in patients who have received previous systemic therapy. However, many patients still experience disease progression after BV monotherapy. Extensive efforts have been dedicated to investigating effective combinations of BV. A phase III clinical study demonstrated that the combination of BV with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, and prednisone (CHP) is superior to cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) for CD30-positive PTCL. This study led to the approval of BV with CHP as the first-line therapy for CD30-positive PTCL (sALCL in Europe). We summarize the encouraging combination applications of BV in this review. Ongoing studies on combination therapies of BV are also listed, highlighting potential directions for the future application of BV. We focus on dissecting the underlying mechanisms of BV, discussing its effects on both tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment. Exploring resistance mechanisms in TCL provide valuable insights for optimizing BV-based therapies in the future.
Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy in Muscle-Invasive Bladder Cancer: A Nationwide Analysis of Eligibility, Utilization, and Outcomes
Authors: Nikulainen Ilkka , Salminen Antti P. , Högerman Mikael , Seikkula Heikki , Boström Peter J. ,   The Finnish National Cystectomy Database Research Group
Published: February 2025

Objectives: To investigate neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC) eligibility, utilization, and survival outcomes for muscle-invasive bladder cancer patients undergoing radical cystectomy (RC) in a Finnish population. Materials and Methods: Data from the Finnish National Cystectomy Database (2005–2017) was combined with Finnish Cancer Registry survival data. NAC utilization rates were reported, and downstaging rates were calculated based on final pathological staging. Logistic regression analyzed NAC usage and complete response (CR) predictors. Results: Since 2011, 29% of 1157 patients received NAC. Its usage remained consistent, and the number of eligible patients not receiving NAC decreased during the study period. Among NAC patients, pathology T-category was pT0 (34%), pT1-Ta-Tis (16%), pT2 (23%), pT3 (20%), and pT4 (7%) tumors, with pN0 in 82%. In the RC + NAC group, the 5-year overall survival (OS) rates were 89% for patients with no residual disease (pT0N0), 82% for those with organ-confined residual disease (pT1, Tis, Ta, T2/N0), and 49% for patients with non-organ-confined residual disease (pT3+/N+). The corresponding cancer-specific survival (CSS) rates were 93%, 86%, and 57%, respectively. Patients with organ-confined residual disease after NAC had survival outcomes comparable to those who underwent RC alone. Higher age; odds ratio (OR) 0.93, [95% Confidence Interval (CI): 0.90–0.95] and Charlson Co-morbidity Index–score [OR 0.88 (0.79–0.98)] reduced the likelihood of receiving NAC, while a smaller center size increased the probability [OR 1.82 (1.02–3.28)]. More treatment cycles [OR 0.70, (95% CI: 0.51–0.93)] and a favorable GFR [OR 0.38 (0.16–0.88)] were associated with achieving CR. Conclusion: We report that NAC is well-utilized across Finland, with CR rates comparable to recent trials. Additionally, our survival rates are reasonable, and even with organ-confined residual disease after NAC, survival outcomes are similar to those who underwent RC alone.
Evolving Indications for Liver Transplantation for Hepatocellular Carcinoma Following the Milan Criteria
Authors: Kokudo Takashi , Kokudo Norihiro
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Since their introduction in the 1990s, the Milan criteria have been the gold standard of indication for liver transplantation (LT) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Nevertheless, several institutions have reported wider indication criteria for LT with comparable survival outcomes. Methods: This paper summarizes the recent indications for LT for HCC through a literature review. Results: There are several criteria expanding the Milan criteria, which can be subdivided into the “based on tumor number and size only”, “based on tumor number and size plus tumor markers”, and “based on tumor differentiation” groups, with the outcomes being comparable to those of patients included within the Milan criteria. Besides the tumor size and number, which are included in the Milan criteria, recent criteria included biomarkers and tumor differentiation. Several retrospective studies have reported microvascular invasion (MVI) as a significant risk factor for postoperative recurrence, highlighting the importance of preoperatively predicting MVI. Several studies attempted to identify preoperative predictive factors for MVI using tumor markers or preoperative imaging findings. Patients with HCC who are LT candidates are often treated while on the waiting list to prevent the progression of HCC or to reduce the measurable disease burden of HCC. The expanding repertoire of chemotherapeutic regiments suitable for patients with HCC should be further investigated. Conclusions: There are several criteria expanding Milan criteria, with the outcomes being comparable to those of patients included within the Milan criteria.
Novel Ni/SBA-15 Catalyst Pellets for Tar Catalytic Cracking in a Dried Sewage Sludge Pyrolysis Pilot Plant
Authors: Iro Emmanuel , Hajimirzaee Saeed , Sasaki Takehiko , Olea Maria
Published: February 2025

Novel Ni/SBA-15 catalysts were synthesised and their activity in the dry reforming of methane process was assessed. These materials were prepared into extrudates shaped like pellets and tested in a pyrolysis pilot plant fitted with a catalytic reactor for sewage sludge pyrolysis tar removal. The Ni/SBA-15 catalyst pellets remained highly active and stable throughout the test’s duration, converting 100% tar in the hot gas to smaller non-condensable gases, thereby increasing the pyrolysis gas fraction and eliminating the problematic tar in the vapour stream. Catalyst characterisation with Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Energy-Dispersive X-ray (EDX) analysis, Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA) confirmed that both the Ni/SBA-15-powered catalyst and the pellets were resistant to sintering and carbon deposition and remained highly active even with relatively high-level sulphur in the feed stream. The Ni/SBA-15 catalyst extrudates were prepared by mixing the powdered catalyst with varied amounts of colloidal silica binder and fixed amounts of methyl cellulose and water. The highest mechanical strength of the extrudates was determined to be of those obtained with 36% of the inorganic binder. The physical properties and catalytic activity of Ni/SBA-15 pellets with 36% colloidal silica were compared with the original powdered Ni/SBA-15 catalyst to assess the binder inhibitory effect, if any. The results confirmed that colloidal silica binder did not inhibit the desired catalyst properties and performance in the reaction. Instead, enhanced catalytic performance was observed.
Facile Synthesis of Palladium Nanorods: Self-Assembly into Thin 2D Layers for SERS Sensing
Authors: Navvabpour Mohammad , Jradi Safi , Adam Pierre-Michel , Akil Suzanna
Published: February 2025

This study presents a simple, high-throughput synthesis approach for fabricating palladium (Pd) nanomaterials with anisotropic shapes, specifically Pd nanorods, via a self-assembly process. This method avoids the use of reducing agents, surface functionalization, and stabilizing agents. Palladium–poly(methyl methacrylate) (Pd-PMMA) nanocomposites were successfully synthesized using a vapor-induced phase separation (VIPS) method. The formation of Pd nanorods was controlled by tuning key parameters, such as the Pd precursor concentration, choice of solvents, and spin coating speed. Notably, the resulting nanorods exhibited high reproducibility and ultrasensitivity as a surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) platform, achieving an enhancement factor of approximately 1.8 × 105, despite the relatively weak plasmonic properties of Pd. This work represents a novel, facile strategy for Pd nanorod synthesis, offering new potential for the design of Pd-based nanosensors for chemical sensing applications.
Oriented Immobilization of IgG for Immunosensor Development
Authors: Zhang Yihan , Ma Mingjie , Aisa Haji Akber , Chen Longyi
Published: February 2025

The realization of the oriented immobilization of antibodies onto the surfaces of solid or nanometal particles constitutes a significant approach for enhancing the performance of electrochemical immunosensors. In light of the research findings of predecessors, this review showcases several immobilization methods, categorizing them into covalent binding pathways, bioaffinity techniques, and other binding modalities for elaboration. Emphasis is placed on expounding the binding sites, binding mechanisms, as well as the merits and drawbacks of binding techniques such as those involving disulfide bonds, glycan chains, protein A, G, and DNA.
Impact of NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Substrate Phase Transitions Induced by Extreme Temperature Variations on the Tribological Properties of TiN Thin Films
Authors: Hou Mingxi , Xie Dong , Wang Xiaoting , Guan Min , Ren Diqi , Su Yongyao , Ma Donglin , Leng Yongxiang
Published: February 2025

NiTi alloys and thin film/NiTi composites are extensively utilized in frictional environments, particularly those experiencing extreme temperature fluctuations. Current studies mainly focus on preparing wear-resistant films on NiTi alloy surfaces but neglect the potential impact of temperature-induced phase transitions in the NiTi substrate on thin films’ performance. This study examines the effect of NiTi alloy phase transitions, induced by extreme temperature variations, on the tribological properties of TiN thin films on NiTi substrates. TiN films (1 μm thick) were deposited on NiTi alloy surfaces using magnetron sputtering technology. The transition of the main phase in the NiTi substrate between the R phase and the B19′ phase was achieved via liquid nitrogen cooling (−196 °C) and water bath heating (90 °C). XRD, EDS, SEM, and tribological tests analyzed the phase structure, elemental composition, micromorphology, and tribological behavior. Fatigue wear was identified as the predominant wear mechanism for the TiN films, with minor contributions from oxidative and abrasive wear. Phase transition from the R phase to the B19′ phase in the NiTi substrate induced by temperature change couls reduce the wear rate of the TiN film by up to 41.97% and decrease the friction coefficient from about 0.45 to about 0.25. Furthermore, the shape memory effect of the NiTi alloy substrate, caused by B19′ → B2 phase transition, resulted in the recovery of the TiN thin film wear track depth from 920 nm to 550 nm, manifesting a “self-healing” phenomenon. The results in this study are important and necessary for the provision of thin film/NiTi composites in frictional environments.
The Numerical Simulation and Experimental Investigation of the Laser Quenching Process of GCr15 Joint Bearings
Authors: Yang Xiuli , Zhang Hao , Jin Dongliang , Ma Xiqiang , Cheng Maolin
Published: February 2025

Joint bearings are widely used in modern industry in order to improve the mechanical properties of the outer surface of its inner ring. A laser quenching experiment was carried out in this paper. First of all, an experimental investigation was conducted on GCr15 ball-bearing material utilizing laser quenching, focusing on the effects of laser irradiation angles ranging from 0° to 10° and laser power levels between 600 W and 1100 W on the degree of hardening and microstructural alterations of the bearing material. Additionally, a reliable finite element analysis model was developed to assess the temperature field throughout the process. The findings indicate that an inclined laser enhances the stability of the hardened layer. Specifically, the hardening effect is minimal when the laser power is below 700 W, and optimal hardening is observed at power levels between 800 W and 900 W. During the laser quenching process when the temperature of the bearing material surpasses Ac1, the cooling rate can exceed 1700 °C/s. In regions where the peak temperature exceeds Ac1, the microstructure will undergo refinement, resulting in a reduction in the size of the martensite and a significant decrease in the number of carbides. In addition, the hardness value of these regions can be increased by 6 to 8 HRC, and the thickness of the quenching layer may exceed 0.3 mm. In the temperature range between Ac1 and Ms, the bearing material undergoes tempering, resulting in lower hardness compared to the base material, along with larger martensite and carbide particles. Furthermore, when using the overlap technique during the laser quenching, there will be a tempering zone both inside and on the surface of the bearing; meanwhile, the heat zones generated by different passes of the laser may have partly interacted, and the hardened zone generated by the previous pass may undergo tempering again.
B-10-Based Macrostructured Cathode for Neutron Detectors
Authors: Kolesnikov Alexander G. , Kurilkin Aleksey K. , Bodnarchuk Viktor I. , Ovodov Alexander S. , Gafurov Marat R.
Published: February 2025

This paper focuses on the search for the desired thickness of the 10B4C thin-film coating, as well as the macrostructuring of the aluminum foil substrate used as a cathode in the production of a multiwire gas detector of thermal neutrons. The impact of the 10B4C film thickness from 1.0 to 2.5 μm and of the 0.05 mm thick Λ-shaped macrostructured aluminum foil substrate with an angle at the Λ-vertex from 10 to 45 degrees, with a height from 0.5 to 4 mm and a distance between the Λ-structures from 0.1 to 0.8 relative units on the neutron registration efficiency 1.8Å, was investigated. Numerical modeling of the electrostatic field was carried out using the Elcut software package. The interaction of neutrons with the 10B4C thin-film coating was modeled using the Monte Carlo method in the Geant4 program. The optimal values of the geometrical parameters for the best neutron registration efficiency were determined.
Physical Properties and Rheological Characteristics of Cigarette Butt-Modified Asphalt Binders
Authors: Hu Xinhe , Chen Xianglong , Yu Jie , Cheng Gang , Yuan Yunxiao , Zhang Lizhou
Published: February 2025

Cigarette butt (CB) waste is abundant and difficult to biodegrade, which is dangerous for both the environment and human health. The key reason CBs are littered is that people do not know much about the harm CBs pose to the environment. Recycling CBs in infrastructure construction can help raise people’s awareness. To promote the recycling of CB waste, this paper aimed to determine the feasibility of using CBs as a modifier for asphalt binders. In this research, CBs were preprocessed and mixed with virgin asphalt binder as a fiber modifier. Comprehensive laboratory investigations, including a softening point test, viscosity test, storage stability test, and temperature sweep test, were performed, along with a frequency sweep test, to evaluate the performance of the modified samples. During this investigation, samples were prepared with 1%, 2%, 3%, and 4% CBs. The results of the CB-modified samples were compared with the sample consisting of fresh bitumen (0% fiber). The results show that the physical and rheological properties of bitumen with incorporated CBs improved significantly, and CBs could be used instead of virgin cellulose fiber as a fiber modifier. However, CB-modified asphalt reduced the storage stability and low-temperature performance of the samples. Further research should focus on improving the storage stability and low-temperature performance of CB-modified asphalt binders to facilitate their application in asphalt pavements.
An Integrated Model for Mass Transport, Corrosion Propagation, and Cracking in Offshore Reinforced Concrete Structures
Authors: Li Wenchao , Wang Huaikuan , Wu Jiangshun , Zhang Bo , Lai Yuming , Huang Feifei , Jin Ying
Published: February 2025

The corrosion of steel reinforcements substantially degrades the longevity of reinforced concrete structures, particularly in marine settings. This investigation introduces a comprehensive model that simulates the processes involved in moisture and chloride ion transport, rebar corrosion, and the consequent cracking of concrete. The model reveals that the transport dynamics of chloride ions are primarily dictated by their penetration rates through the solution. The sensitivity of the steel to corrosion is a function of the concentrations of water and chloride ions, whereas the rate of corrosion predominantly depends on the availability of oxygen at the corrosive site. Oxygen diffusion is the rate-limiting step in the entire process of the electrochemical reactions of the rebar. And the peak corrosion rates are observed at the interface between the solution and the gas phase. The model calculates the stress and strain in the concrete resulting from volumetric expansion due to oxidization of the steel bars. By accurately reproducing the progression of corrosion-related damage, this model provides crucial insights for predicting the service life of offshore concrete structures and enhancing durability against aggressive environmental conditions.
Natural Antioxidants: Advancing Stability and Performance in Sustainable Biobased and Biodegradable Plastics
Authors: Mallegni Norma , Cicogna Francesca , Passaglia Elisa , Gigante Vito , Coltelli Maria-Beatrice , Coiai Serena
Published: February 2025

The depletion of fossil fuels and environmental concerns have driven the development of sustainable materials, including bio-based and biodegradable plastics, as alternatives to conventional plastics. Although these plastics aid in waste management and climate change mitigation, their vulnerability to oxidative degradation impacts their longevity, durability, and performance. Natural antioxidants such as tocopherols, flavonoids, and tannins, extracted from plants or agri-food waste, present a sustainable alternative to synthetic stabilizers by enhancing the oxidative thermal stability of polymers like poly(lactic acid) (PLA), poly(butylene succinate) (PBS), poly(butylene succinate-adipate) (PBSA), poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT), poly(hydroxyalkanoate) (PHA), and starch-based materials. This review highlights recent advances in bio-based plastics stabilized with natural antioxidants, their mechanisms of action, and their role in improving material properties for applications like packaging. Additionally, it explores their impact on recycling processes, advancements in composite production techniques, and future research directions. Bioplastics can achieve enhanced performance, reduce waste, and support a circular economy by incorporating natural antioxidants.
The Development of User-Centric Design Guidelines for Web3 Applications: An Empirical Study
Authors: Bobrova Polina , Perego Paolo
Published: February 2025

The design of Web3 applications presents unique challenges due to their complex technical requirements. Despite the increasing spread of this technology, there is a notable lack of comprehensive, empirically grounded design guidelines for developing user-friendly Web3 interfaces. This study addresses this gap through a systematic three-phase approach: (1) developing initial guidelines from a literature review and industry sources (n = 31), (2) conducting evaluations using a 14-point framework based on the initial guidelines to test its effectiveness across diverse Web3 applications (n = 25), and (3) validating refined guidelines through expert evaluation sessions (n = 7). Expert evaluations highlighted the need for task-oriented rather than category-based organization of design principles. Based on these findings, we developed a structured framework organizing guidelines into four key task flows, each with three implementation levels. The framework emphasizes progressive disclosure of blockchain concepts, integrated user education, and clear state visualization. Our findings contribute to academic discussion and industry practice by providing empirically validated patterns for Web3 interface design. This study lays a foundation for creating more accessible and user-friendly decentralized applications, though future work should focus on longitudinal validation and adaptation to emerging technologies.
Corrosion Effects on Bond Degradation and Cracking Patterns in Lapped Spliced Joints of Reinforced Concrete
Authors: Abdelatif Amged O. , Onsa Sara E. , Ahmed Aya E. , Abdelraouf Eiman A. , Abdalgader Razan M. , Ibrahim Mohamed I. , Ožbolt Joško
Published: February 2025

This research study aims to enhance the understanding of corrosion behaviour in lapped spliced joints within reinforced concrete structures. Specifically, the effect of corrosion on bond degradation and crack formation is investigated. Accelerated corrosion tests were conducted on two sets of semi-cylindrical samples and half-beam blocks. By applying a constant voltage, the current-time relationship during the corrosion process was obtained. Subsequently, the samples were subjected to pull-out testing to assess their bond strength. Three primary modes of bond failure were observed: pull-out, splitting, or a combination of both. Notably, the results demonstrate that the reduction in bond strength is directly related to the corrosion level, considering factors such as mass loss, section loss, and diameter reduction. Furthermore, a strong correlation exists between corrosion-induced cracks and the weakening of bond strength. These findings align with existing research and enrich the experimental data in the current corrosion database for lap splice joints in reinforced concrete structures.
Towards Streamlining the Choice of Crossing Combinations in Plant Breeding by Integrating Model-Based Recommendations and Plant Breeder’s Preferences
Authors: Michel Sebastian , Löschenberger Franziska , Ametz Christian , Bistrich Herbert , Bürstmayr Hermann
Published: February 2025

Selecting crossing combinations crucial for successfully developing new improved crop varieties and genomic data from DNA markers have become invaluable for guiding plant breeders in evaluating and choosing promising crosses between potential parents. However, navigating the vast array of thousands of possible parental combinations, even with extensive genomic information, can be challenging, even for experienced breeders with deep knowledge of their crop’s gene pool. This case study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of a recommender system to support plant breeders in this complex decision-making process. It took a retrospective approach, analyzing selection decisions made by an experienced breeder across several thousand potential crossing combinations over six years. The results indicated that a recommender system could significantly reduce the time and effort needed to identify promising crosses aligned with the breeder’s preferences. However, active feedback from the breeder to the recommender system appeared to be essential for achieving a satisfactory prediction. Integrating model-based recommendations and plant breeder’s preferences in a recommender system featuring such a reciprocal fine-tuning scheme, where the breeder actively provides feedback to the machine in the style of hybrid human–artificial intelligence, represents one step towards streamlining the choice of crossing combinations in plant breeding programs.
A Novel Method to Represent the Three-Dimensional Inclination of the Distal Radius Joint Surface
Authors: Ikumi Akira , Asai Reo , Eda Yusuke , Uchida Tooru , Kohyama Sho , Ogawa Takeshi , Yoshii Yuichi
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This study aims to define three-dimensional (3D) parameters for the inclination of the distal radius joint surface. The goal is to develop standardized parameters for fracture reduction through comprehensive 3D evaluations of the joint surfaces. Methods: We analyzed 112 CT scans of unaffected wrists (56 males and 56 females) to construct 3D models of the distal radius. Using 3D coordinates, the normal vectors and angles were calculated based on three reference points on the distal radius joint surface. These normal vector components were then converted into unit vector components A, B, and C for the x, y, and z axes, respectively. Additionally, the angles of these unit vectors were assessed in the xy, yz, and xz planes. The 3D measurements were compared between males and females and against traditional two-dimensional (2D) parameters such as palmar tilt and radial inclination. Results: For males, the unit vector components were as follows: A: −0.14 ± 0.09, B: −0.92 ± 0.02, and C: −0.36 ± 0.07; for females, A: −0.21 ± 0.08, B: −0.90 ± 0.03, and C: −0.36 ± 0.05. Significant differences were found between males and females for the A and B vector components (representing the palmar–dorsal and proximal–distal axes, p < 0.01). The angles of the unit vectors in the xy, yz, and xz planes were 8.9 ± 5.4°/12.9 ± 5.0°, 21.3 ± 4.1°/22.1 ± 3.2°, and 22.2 ± 14.8°/28.8 ± 10.1° for males and females, respectively. There were significant differences between males and females in the angles of the xy and xz planes (sagittal and axial planes, p < 0.01). Strong correlations were observed between the xy-plane vectors and palmar tilt (r = 0.96), as well as between the yz-plane vectors and radial inclination (r = 0.88). Conclusions: This study evaluated the 3D inclination of the distal radius joint surface, revealing significant gender differences. This method, which also allows for the assessment of rotational alignment—difficult with conventional techniques—is expected to be a key 3D parameter in treating distal radius fractures.
An Assessment of the Distribution and Prevalence of Benign Intraoral Pathologies
Authors: Ertem Sinan Yasin , Uz Furkan
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the histopathological examinations of biopsy samples obtained from patients, and to determine the prevalence, age, and gender distribution of intraoral benign lesions. The study examines the distribution of all benign intraoral pathologies, including both soft tissue and hard tissue lesions, through which the goal is to contribute to clinical diagnostic processes. Methods: The histopathological evaluation results of 235 patients who underwent biopsy between 2021 and 2024 were retrospectively analyzed. Out of 235 patients, 123 (52.34%) were female and 112 (47.66%) were male. Lesions were categorized into two groups: soft tissue lesions and intraosseous lesions. The frequency, gender distribution, and age ranges of these lesions were assessed. Lesions exhibiting dysplasia or malignancy were excluded from the study. Results: The most common benign intraoral lesion was identified as the radicular cyst, observed in 69 patients. The age range for radicular cysts varied from 8 to 80 years, with 30 cases in females and 39 in males. The most frequently encountered soft tissue lesion was traumatic fibroma, which constituted 25.33% (19 patients) of all soft tissue lesions. Traumatic fibromas were observed in patients aged between 12 and 62 years. In terms of overall prevalence among all benign intraoral pathological lesions, radicular cysts ranked first (29.36%), followed by periapical granulomas (15.31%), dentigerous cysts (11.06%), and traumatic fibromas (8.08%). The occurrence of soft tissue lesions was significantly higher in females (66.66%) compared to males (33.34%). Conclusions: There are no recent studies in the literature evaluating the prevalence and demographic distribution of intraoral benign lesions. The most common lesions diagnosed in the study are typically associated with inflammation and irritation. The most common hard tissue lesion was the radicular cyst, which was seen across a wide age range and in similar proportions in men and women. Among soft tissue lesions, traumatic fibroma was the most common, particularly in women, and was seen across a wide age range. In terms of gender distribution, soft tissue lesions were twice as common in women as in men.
Building Better Deep Learning Models Through Dataset Fusion: A Case Study in Skin Cancer Classification with Hyperdatasets
Authors: Georgiadis Panagiotis , Gkouvrikos Emmanouil V. , Vrochidou Eleni , Kalampokas Theofanis , Papakostas George A.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This work brings to light the importance of forming large training datasets with diverse images generated and proposes an image dataset merging application, namely, the Data Merger App, to streamline the management and synthesis of large-scale datasets. The Data Merger can recognize common classes across various datasets and provides tools to combine and organize them in a well-structured and easily accessible way. Methods: A case study is then presented, leveraging four different Convolutional Neural Network (CNN) models, VGG16, ResNet50, MobileNetV3-small, and DenseNet-161, and a Visual Transformer (ViT), to benchmark their performance to classify skin cancer images, when trained on single datasets and on enhanced hyperdatasets generated by the Data Merger App. Results: Extended experimental results indicated that enhanced hyperdatasets are efficient and able to improve the accuracies of classification models, whether the models are trained from scratch or by using Transfer Learning. Moreover, the ViT model was reported for higher classification accuracies compared to CNNs on datasets with a limited number of classes, reporting 91.87% accuracy for 9 classes, as well as in the case of enhanced hyperdatasets with multiple numbers of classes, reporting accuracy of 58% for 32 classes. Conclusions: In essence, this work demonstrates the great significance of data combination, as well as the utility value of the developed prototype web application as a critical tool for researchers and data scientists, enabling them to easily handle complex datasets, combine datasets into larger diverse versions, to further enhance the generalization ability of models and improve the quality and impact of their work.
Factors Affecting Online Health Promotion Program Adherence Among People with Disabilities
Authors: Mintz Madison , Oster Robert A. , Wilroy Jereme , Rimmer James H.
Published: February 2025

As online health and wellness programs become more ubiquitous post-pandemic, there is a need to better understand how people with physical disabilities respond to different types of program offerings. Online health promotion programs have become popular in the disability community, and programs offer a range of activities across various wellness domains (e.g., exercise, nutrition). This study examined factors predicting adherence to three different types of online health promotion programs tailored for people with physical disabilities. A survey was developed to examine factors associated with high, moderate, and low adherence to three different types of health promotion programs. Participants who completed an online wellness program were sent a survey that asked questions related to adherence to a range of wellness activities. The three programs included the MENTOR (Mindfulness, Exercise, and Nutrition to Optimize Resilience), GROWTH (Growing Resilience Out of Wellness and Thoughtful Habits), and SOSE (State of Slim Everybody) programs, all of which focus on different self-care strategies. MENTOR focused on educating participants about mindfulness, exercise, and nutrition; GROWTH aimed to deliver mental and emotional health techniques, while SOSE’s purpose was to teach participants how to implement healthy weight loss, weight management, and daily exercise practices. Results indicated that participant perceptions of program delivery, specifically programs being disability friendly, virtual environment enjoyment, having positive instructor relationships, adaptable content, the instructor’s knowledge about disability, the instructor’s use of appropriate language, and program satisfaction, affected the likelihood of high adherence among people with physical disabilities enrolled in the health and wellness programs.
Partial Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen Functional Knockout Impairs Cisplatin Resistance and Clonogenic Potential in Lung Adenocarcinoma Cells
Authors: Morelli Ana Paula , Quintero-Ruiz Nathalia , Mancini Mariana Camargo Silva , Pavan Isadora Carolina Betim , Flores Isabelle Lima , Silva Luiz Guilherme Salvino , Severino Matheus Brandemarte , Bezerra Rosangela Maria Neves , Simabuco Fernando Moreira
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Lung cancer ranks as the leading cause of cancer-related deaths globally and is highly associated with cisplatin resistance due to both intrinsic and extrinsic mechanisms. Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen (PCNA) plays a critical role in molecular processes, such as DNA replication and repair, chromatin structure maintenance, and cell cycle progression. PCNA is known as a molecular marker for proliferation and an excellent inhibition target to shut down highly proliferative cells. One of the mechanisms of cisplatin resistance is the increase in DNA repair, and studies have reported an association between PCNA, lung cancer, and cisplatin treatment. The present study aimed to characterize the absence of PCNA in A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells. Methods: Employing a CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing approach, we generated a monoclonal cell culture, termed PKO (PCNA knockout). Results: PKO cells exhibited a residual PCNA expression, significantly decreased clonogenic potential and ubiquitylation at K164 residue. IC50 assay suggested that PKO cells could not acquire cisplatin resistance when compared to PX. After cisplatin treatment, PKO cells presented impaired ubiquitylation and did not have increased STAT3 phosphorylation (Tyr705), a previously characterized mechanism of cisplatin resistance. Conclusions: We suggest that PCNA participates in cisplatin resistance in A549, partially by DNA damage tolerance through failure on PCNA monoubiquitylation, and its inhibition may be an approach to circumvent cisplatin resistance.
Recurrence Resonance and 1/f Noise in Neurons Under Quantum Conditions and Their Manifestations in Proteinoid Microspheres
Authors: Huang Yu , Mougkogiannis Panagiotis , Adamatzky Andrew , Gunji Yukio Pegio
Published: February 2025

Recurrence resonance (RR), in which external noise is utilized to enhance the behaviour of hidden attractors in a system, is a phenomenon often observed in biological systems and is expected to adjust between chaos and order to increase computational power. It is known that connections of neurons that are relatively dense make it possible to achieve RR and can be measured by global mutual information. Here, we used a Boltzmann machine to investigate how the manifestation of RR changes when the connection pattern between neurons is changed. When the connection strength pattern between neurons forms a partially sparse cluster structure revealing Boolean algebra or Quantum logic, an increase in mutual information and the formation of a maximum value are observed not only in the entire network but also in the subsystems of the network, making recurrence resonance detectable. It is also found that in a clustered connection distribution, the state time series of a single neuron shows 1/f noise. In proteinoid microspheres, clusters of amino acid compounds, the time series of localized potential changes emit pulses like neurons and transmit and receive information. Indeed, it is found that these also exhibit 1/f noise, and the results here also suggest RR.
Penalized Exponentially Tilted Likelihood for Growing Dimensional Models with Missing Data
Authors: Sha Xiaoming , Zhao Puying , Tang Niansheng
Published: February 2025

This paper develops a penalized exponentially tilted (ET) likelihood to simultaneously estimate unknown parameters and select variables for growing dimensional models with missing response at random. The inverse probability weighted approach is employed to compensate for missing information and to ensure the consistency of parameter estimators. Based on the penalized ET likelihood, we construct an ET likelihood ratio statistic to test the contrast hypothesis of parameters. Under some wild conditions, we obtain the consistency, asymptotic properties, and oracle properties of parameter estimators and show that the constrained penalized ET likelihood ratio statistic for testing the contrast hypothesis possesses the Wilks’ property. Simulation studies are conducted to validate the finite sample performance of the proposed methodologies. Thyroid data taken from the First People’s Hospital of Yunnan Province is employed to illustrate the proposed methodologies.
The Rosencrantz Coin: Predictability and Structure in Non-Ergodic Dynamics—From Recurrence Times to Temporal Horizons
Authors: Volchenkov Dimitri
Published: February 2025

We examine the Rosencrantz coin that can “stick” in states for extended periods. Non-ergodic dynamics is highlighted by logarithmically growing block lengths in sequences. Traditional entropy decomposition into predictable and unpredictable components fails due to the absence of stationary distributions. Instead, sequence structure is characterized by block probabilities and Stirling numbers of the second kind, peaking at block size n/logn. For large n, combinatorial growth dominates probability decay, creating a deterministic-like structure. This approach shifts the focus from predicting states to predicting temporal horizons, providing insights into systems beyond traditional equilibrium frameworks.
A Network Analysis of the Impact of the Coronavirus Pandemic on the US Economy: A Comparison of the Return and the Momentum Picture
Authors: Miśkiewicz Janusz
Published: February 2025

This study examines a cross-correlation analysis of companies included in the S&P 500 Index at three different intervals: before, during, and after the pandemic’s onset. The aim is to evaluate how the pandemic and related governmental actions have affected market structures and economic conditions. This paper introduces the notion of momentum time series, integrating return and volume data. We show that these momentum time series provide unique insights that differ from return time series, suggesting their potential utility in economic analysis. Our analysis employs the Manhattan and Mantegna distances to construct a threshold-based network, which we subsequently scrutinize. Lastly, we evaluate how the pandemic has influenced these outcomes.
Understanding the Impact of Evaluation Metrics in Kinetic Models for Consensus-Based Segmentation
Authors: Cabini Raffaella Fiamma , Tettamanti Horacio , Zanella Mattia
Published: February 2025

In this article, we extend a recently introduced kinetic model for consensus-based segmentation of images. In particular, we will interpret the set of pixels of a 2D image as an interacting particle system that evolves in time in view of a consensus-type process obtained by interactions between pixels and external noise. Thanks to a kinetic formulation of the introduced model, we derive the large time solution of the model. We will show that the parameters defining the segmentation task can be chosen from a plurality of loss functions that characterize the evaluation metrics.
Improved CNN Prediction Based Reversible Data Hiding for Images
Authors: Qiu Yingqiang , Peng Wanli , Lin Xiaodan
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a reversible data hiding (RDH) scheme for images with an improved convolutional neural network (CNN) predictor (ICNNP) that consists of three modules for feature extraction, pixel prediction, and complexity prediction, respectively. Due to predicting the complexity of each pixel with the ICNNP during the embedding process, the proposed scheme can achieve superior performance compared to a CNNP-based scheme. Specifically, an input image is first split into two sub-images, i.e., a “Circle” sub-image and a “Square” sub-image. Meanwhile, each sub-image is applied to predict another one with the ICNNP. Then, the prediction errors of pixels are sorted based on the predicted pixel complexities. In light of this, some sorted prediction errors with less complexity are selected to be efficiently applied for low-distortion data embedding with a traditional histogram-shifting technique. Experimental results show that the proposed ICNNP can achieve better rate-distortion performance than the CNNP, demonstrating its effectiveness.
Solving STEM-Relevant Problems: A Study with Prospective Primary School Teachers
Authors: Morgado Sofia , Leite Laurinda , Dourado Luís , Varela Paulo
Published: February 2025

Solving a problem requires and promotes a diversity of competencies, which include conceptual knowledge, technical and methodological knowledge, and transversal competencies. Everyday STEM-relevant problems are contextualized, ill structured, and multidisciplinary in nature. By focusing on daily life issues, they promote students’ engagement in the problem-solving process and enable them to perceive how science relates to their lives. This paper aims to characterize the processes followed by prospective primary school teachers when solving three STEM-relevant problems that have different features. The qualitative analysis of 77 participants’ answers showed that complete problem-solving pathways were one among a variety of other paths identified. Most strategies adopted by the participants led them to ignore the contextual conditions of the problem and to reach solutions that did not attend to them. The affective relationship with the object may increase the problem solver’s tendency to ignore the contextual conditions, but this issue deserves further research. The results shed some light on the features of the problems that teacher educators should select if they wish for their prospective teachers to learn and succeed in solving everyday STEM-relevant issues. This is required to promote their future students’ engagement in problem-based learning processes.