bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Melanoma in Northwestern Romania: An Analysis of Epidemiological and Histopathological Characteristics and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Apostu Adina Patricia , Ungureanu Loredana , Piciu Andra , Vesa Ștefan Cristian , Halmagyi Salomea Ruth , Trufin Ioana Irina , Frațilă Simona , Iancu Gabriela , Șenilă Simona Corina
Published: February 2025

Background: Cutaneous melanoma (CM) is a malignant tumor originating from melanocytes. Despite improvements in prevention, Central and Eastern European countries continue to report higher rates of advanced-stage melanoma and lower survival rates. This study aims to characterize CM and the associated risk factors in Northwestern Romania. Methods: This cross-sectional cohort study was conducted in Cluj and Bihor counties. Between January 2023 and May 2024, 172 patients with histopathologically confirmed melanoma completed a standardized questionnaire addressing demographics, sun exposure history, nevi count, and melanoma-specific characteristics. Results: The median age at diagnosis of participants was 44 years. The median Breslow index (BI) was 1.5 mm, and 39% of cases presented with a BI > 2 mm. Superficial spreading melanoma (SSM) was the most common subtype, predominantly affecting women, while nodular melanoma (NM) was more frequent in men. Higher BI was associated with NM and acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM). Limbs were women’s most frequent tumor site, whereas the trunk was predominant in men. Significant associations were observed between younger age at diagnosis and factors such as high nevus count, indoor activity, and smoking status. Rural residents reported a higher history of sunburns compared to urban residents. Conclusions: Our findings underscore the importance of targeted public health interventions to promote early detection and primary prevention of melanoma. Establishing a national melanoma registry is crucial to improving epidemiological surveillance and reducing the burden of melanoma in Romania.
In Vivo Optical Coherence Tomography for the Detection, Subtyping, and Margin Assessment of Facial Basal Cell Carcinoma: A Comparative Study with Histopathology
Authors: Jerjes Waseem , Hamdoon Zaid , Rashed Dara , Hopper Colin
Published: February 2025

Background: Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) is the most common skin cancer, with several subtypes that vary from one another in biological behaviour and therapeutic consequences. The aim of the study was to evaluate in vivo OCT diagnostic accuracy to detect and subtype facial BCCs, using histopathology as the gold standard. Patients and Methods: This single-centre, prospective, diagnostic accuracy study was carried out on 136 patients who were presenting with a total of 220 clinically suspicious facial lesions for BCC. All lesions were imaged by OCT before their surgical excision. OCT findings were compared to the histopathological results in the respect of detection of BCC, subtype, tumour depth, and margin status. Results: OCT showed an excellent diagnostic performance for the detection of BCC in general: sensitivity, 96.8%; specificity, 98.2%; and accuracy, 97.5%. The AUC for the detection of BCC was 0.97. Subtype sensitivity for OCT was highest for superficial, 93.1%, and nodular BCC, 92.1%, and marginally lower for micronodular, 89.3%, and infiltrative subtypes, 90.0%. Depth measurements of OCT-derived tumour strongly correlated with those obtained by histopathology: mean depth, 2.3 ± 0.9 mm for OCT versus 2.2 ± 0.8 mm for histopathology; p = 0.08. Conclusions: The performed OCT showed very good agreement in the detection, subtyping, and preoperative assessment of BCC facial lesions. In addition to its non-invasive characteristics, its robustness regarding the evaluation of tumour depth and margins makes OCT very promising for improved surgical planning by reducing unnecessary excisions.
Fibromyalgia: Understanding, Diagnosis and Modern Approaches to Treatment
Authors: Filipovic Tamara , Filipović Aleksandar , Nikolic Dejan , Gimigliano Francesca , Stevanov Jelena , Hrkovic Marija , Bosanac Ivana
Published: February 2025

Fibromyalgia (FM) is a chronic condition characterized by generalized musculoskeletal pain associated with other symptoms, especially sleep and mood disorders, fatigue, and cognitive dysfunctions. The etiopathogenesis of FM is not sufficiently known, and regardless of numerous research, the clinical presentation is nonspecific, which makes it difficult to approve a timely diagnosis and, subsequently, an adequate therapeutic approach. Genetic, hormonal, immunological, and environmental factors are cited as potential factors in the development of this condition. Diagnosis is based on a clinical approach and known diagnostic criteria, while additional methods, such as radiographic, magnetic resonance, or laboratory analyses, can be useful to exclude other conditions. The heterogeneity of FM significantly impacts both diagnosis and treatment, as it presents a wide spectrum of symptoms that vary in severity, combinations, and underlying contributing factors. This variability is a challenge for clinicians and requires a holistic, comprehensive, multidisciplinary, patient-centered approach. According to The European League Against Rheumatism (EULAR) from 2016, treatment begins with patient education and involves the simultaneous application of pharmacological and nonpharmacological treatments. The application of only pharmacological or nonpharmacological treatment is most often not successful. Due to differences in pain threshold, psychological factors, and comorbidities, patients may respond differently to the same interventions. Although there is no universal treatment, this review brings up the fact that the timely recognition of symptoms and a tailored treatment with a patient-centered plan can significantly improve the quality of life of patients.
Correction: Godoy Hurtado et al. Low- and Negative-Pressure Hydrocephalus: New Report of Six Cases and Literature Review. J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12, 4112
Authors: Godoy Hurtado Alicia , Barstchi Patrick , Brea Salvago Juan Francisco , Al-Ghanem Rajab , Galicia Bulnes Jose Manuel , El Rubaidi Osamah
Published: February 2025

Following publication, concerns were raised regarding the peer-review process related to the publication of this article [...]
Facial Nerve Graft in Malignant Tumors: The Role of Facial Rehabilitation
Authors: Mattioli Francesco , Galloni Costanza , Alberti Chiara , Bonali Marco , Lo Manto Alfredo , Baraldi Stella , Tonelli Roberto , Nizzoli Federica , Reggiani Elena , Barbazza Alice , Liberale Carlotta , Ferrari Marco , Fermi Matteo , Alicandri-Ciufelli Matteo , Fernandez Ignacio Javier , Zanoletti Elisabetta , Nicolai Piero , Marchioni Daniele
Published: February 2025

Background: Oncological surgery of the parotid gland or of the temporal bone may require the contemporary sacrifice of the facial nerve (FN). In such cases, the immediate repair of the sacrificed FN is recommended. The aim of this study is to evaluate the impact of facial rehabilitation (FR) and, secondarily, of post-operative radiotherapy (PORT) on the FN outcome after FN sacrifice and reconstruction via cable graft. Methods: This is a multicentric retrospective study including patients affected by malignant tumors whose surgical excision required FN sacrifice and contextual FN reconstruction with a cable graft. Other FN reconstruction techniques were excluded. FN function was assessed using both House–Brackmann and Sunnybrook grading systems. Results: A total of 28 patients were included. Most of the patients underwent a total parotidectomy. The greater auricular nerve was the main donor for cable graft. FR and PORT were performed in 22 and 15 patients, respectively. In particular, 20 patients underwent neuro-muscular retraining (NMR). Patients who underwent FR had better FN outcomes compared to those who did not (p = 0.02 at 12 months and p = 0.0002 at 24 months). In contrast, there was no statistically significant difference between patients who underwent PORT and those who did not (p > 0.05). Pre-operative FN palsy is a risk factor of worse FN function outcomes after cable graft. Conclusions: Our study, even though it was limited to only 28 cases, may demonstrate that cable graft failure is not due to PORT, as widely believed among clinicians, but to the absence of a rehabilitation program. Moreover, we suggest that the key to obtaining the best possible FN function results after FN sacrifice is the association of a technically correct FN reconstruction with a proper and targeted FR.
Monitoring Hip Joint Muscle Function in Osteoarthritis Patients Following Arthroplasty: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Staniak Dorota , Wójcik-Załuska Alicja , Sokołowski Krzysztof , Drelich Małgorzata , Świetlicka Izabela , Prendecka-Wróbel Monika , Małecka-Massalska Teresa
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic and progressive joint disease, leading to functional limitations and significantly impairing the quality of life. Muscle weakness, reduced mobility, and compensatory biomechanical changes are common consequences, further exacerbating functional decline. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of hip osteoarthritis on muscle functionality and to evaluate the effectiveness of hip arthroplasty using the MyotonPro device to measure key biomechanical parameters, i.e., tension, stiffness, and flexibility. Methods: This cohort study included 40 patients (17 women and 23 men; mean age 64.55 ± 10.49 years) with advanced hip OA (Kellgren–Lawrence grade III–IV) undergoing hip arthroplasty. Measurements of muscle tension (F), stiffness (S), and flexibility (D) in the gluteus maximus, rectus femoris, and biceps femoris were performed at three time points: before surgery, on postoperative days 8–10, and one month after hospital discharge. Pain (VAS), balance (Tinetti scale), and functional ability (WOMAC index) were also assessed. Results: Hip arthroplasty significantly reduced pain levels (VAS: 6.38 ± 0.28 preoperatively to 1.88 ± 0.22 postoperatively, p < 0.001) and improved functional ability (WOMAC: p < 0.001). Muscle tension and stiffness of the gluteus maximus initially increased after surgery (tension: 11.57 ± 0.32 to 12.15 ± 0.38, p = 0.009), reflecting compensatory stabilization but decreased by the final evaluation. Flexibility improved significantly over time (p = 0.014). The biceps femoris muscle exhibited a significant reduction in tension one month postoperatively (p = 0.015), alongside decreased stiffness (p = 0.015) and enhanced flexibility. The rectus femoris muscle showed minor changes in biomechanical properties, with no statistically significant differences detected. Conclusions: Osteoarthritis significantly impacts muscle function, reducing the gluteus muscle tension and stiffness, which compromises joint stability and triggers compensatory activity in the rectus femoris and biceps femoris muscles. Postoperative rehabilitation is essential for improving flexibility and addressing compensatory muscle tension.
Depression in Pulmonary Hypertension: A Systematic Review of Clinical Outcomes, Treatment Interactions, and Emerging Technologies
Authors: Kramer Mira , Rosenkranz Stephan , Kramer Tilmann
Published: February 2025

Background: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure, often leading to right heart failure and poor prognosis. Depression, a common comorbidity in PH, significantly affects the quality of life. However, mechanistic insights into the bidirectional relationship between PH and depression and specific treatment interactions remain scarce. Objective: The object was to examine the clinical and therapeutic implications of depression in PH, focusing on its impact on patient outcomes and cost efficiency. Methods: A systematic review of Medline and Google Scholar was conducted to identify studies on depression in PH, emphasizing evidence-based interventions, clinical outcomes, and cost efficiency. Special consideration was given to potential drug interactions between PH medications and depression treatments and to the role of emerging technologies in managing PH-related depression. Results: While depression reduces the quality of life and exacerbates disease severity in PH, depression treatment improves outcomes, particularly when tailored to PH-targeted therapies, considering potential drug–drug interactions. Emerging technologies, including telemedicine, offer innovative approaches to manage depression in PH, enhancing access to care and improving adherence to treatment regimens. Conclusions: Depression in PH must no longer be neglected and should be acknowledged as both a critical comorbidity and a significant driver of disease progression. Interdisciplinary treatment approaches are necessary, considering potential pharmacological interactions and incorporating emerging technologies like telemedicine to improve patient care. Further research is needed to assess the long-term outcomes of depression treatment in different groups of PH.
Dose-Dependent Concentration and Penetration Depth of Cisplatin in Human Lung Tissue During Hyperthermic Exposure
Authors: Larisch Christopher , Markowiak Till , Schauer Martin Ignaz , Golovchenko Svitlana , Bednarski Patrick J. , Mueller Karolina , Großer Christian , Hofmann Hans-Stefan , Ried Michael
Published: February 2025

Background: Hyperthermic intrathoracic chemotherapy (HITOC) is an additive treatment option after surgical cytoreduction of pleural malignancies. Despite growing clinical experience and studies evaluating its feasibility, postoperative morbidity and mortality, as well as the effect on survival, there is still only little known about the local effects of HITOC on the lung parenchyma and tumour cells. The objective of this in vitro study was to evaluate the dose-dependent concentration and penetration depth of cisplatin in human lung tissue. Methods: In total, 40 patients were enrolled for elective lung resection, and wedge samples were taken to the laboratory. The visceral pleura was removed, and the decorticated lung tissue was incubated in cisplatin solutions of different concentrations (0.05, 0.075, and 0.1 mg/mL) at 42 °C over 60 min. Afterwards, platinum amounts in the lung tissue samples were measured using atomic absorption spectroscopy. Results: A strong decline of the cisplatin concentration was found until a depth of 3.5 mm, followed by a mild decline until a depth of 7.5 mm. In a depth of 0.5 mm, there was only a significant difference between 0.05 and 0.1 mg/mL (p = 0.03, Cohen’s d = 0.43). In a depth of 1.5 mm, there was an overall significant difference in cisplatin concentration dependent on dose (p = 0.027). In deeper tissue layers, no significant difference in cisplatin concentrations in the tissue was found. Conclusions: A dose-dependent increase of the cisplatin concentration was found for superficial tissue layers. This emphasises the relevance of sufficiently high intrathoracic concentrations of the chemotherapeutic agent. This study confirms that cisplatin penetrates lung tissue in therapeutically effective concentrations.
Enhancing Technical Efficiency in the Oil and Gas Sector: The Role of CEO Characteristics and Board Composition
Authors: Zaabouti Kaouther , Ben Mohamed Ezzeddine
Published: February 2025

This study investigates how CEO characteristics, board composition, and firm size influence the technical efficiency (TE) of energy firms. We aim to understand how these factors contribute to production inefficiencies, which may help explain fluctuations in oil prices. Using stochastic frontier analysis (SFA), we analyze data from 100 American energy firms over the period from 2006 to 2019. Our results show that inefficiencies in production are primarily driven by specific CEO traits, the size and structure of the board, and the overall size of the firm. Based on the findings of this study, we recommend focusing on the selection of executive managers with specific qualifications, particularly those with extensive experience in managing oil and gas companies. Leadership positions should prioritize seasoned managers with accumulated expertise in this sector, and preference should be given to candidates with advanced educational backgrounds. Encouraging CEOs to acquire equity stakes in the company can significantly boost the technical efficiency of oil and gas firms. Additionally, offering competitive salaries and performance-based bonuses may further enhance managerial effectiveness and drive technical improvements. In addition, expanding the size of boards of directors in oil and gas companies is also anticipated to positively influence their technical efficiency. Finally, pursuing mergers and acquisitions to grow the scale of oil and gas companies represents a strategic approach to improving operational efficiency while contributing to the stability of global energy prices.
Hempseed Water-Soluble Protein Fraction and Its Hydrolysate Display Different Biological Features
Authors: Givonetti Annalisa , Tonello Stelvio , Cattaneo Chiara , D’Onghia Davide , Vercellino Nicole , Sainaghi Pier Paolo , Colangelo Donato , Cavaletto Maria
Published: February 2025

Hempseeds, from the Cannabis sativa plant, and its derivates are a versatile food option for various dietary preferences. Due to their aminoacidic profile, researchers have studied the presence of bioactive peptides in hempseed proteins. In this study, the water-soluble fraction of hempseed protein was extracted, and the derived peptides were analyzed. The investigation focused on their biological function, particularly their antioxidant activity. Several biological functions have arisen, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition activity, dipeptidyl-peptidase IV, dipeptidyl-peptidase III inhibition, and ubiquitin-mediated proteolysis activation. The hydrolysates show greater 2,2-azinobis-[3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonic acid (ABTS) radical scavenging activity compared to the proteins (97.95 ± 4.48 versus 81.04 ± 10.63). Furthermore, the impact of these proteins and peptides on the U937 cell line was evaluated to assess cell viability and their potential role in modulating inflammation associated with gastrointestinal autoimmune diseases. Protein treatment resulted in a significant reduction in cell viability, as opposed to hydrolysates, which did not affect it.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Divergence of CBF Family in Actinidia arguta and Functional Analysis of AaCBF4 Under Cold Stress
Authors: Li Sumei , Zhang Qina , Zhang Zhenzhen , Zhang Peng , Li Congcong , Sun Leiming , Fang Jinbao , Wang Ran , Wei Feng , Li Yukuo , Lin Miaomiao , Qi Xiujuan
Published: February 2025

The C-repeat binding factors (CBFs) gene is essential for plants’ cold response, which could not only be induced by the inducer of CBF expression (ICE) genes but also activated the expression of the cold-regulated (COR) gene, thereby participating in the ICE-CBF-COR cold response pathway. However, this gene family and its functions in Actinidia arguta remain unclear. In this study, whole-genome identification and functional analysis of CBF family members in A. arguta were performed. Eighteen CBF genes, which were located on four chromosomes and had five tandem repeats, were identified. The proteins encoded by the genes were predicted to be located in the nucleus and cytoplasm. The results of the promoter cis-acting element analysis revealed light response elements, low-temperature response elements, and hormone (methyl jasmonate, gibberellin, salicylic acid, etc.) response elements. We analyzed collinearity with other kiwifruit genomes, and, interestingly, the number of CBF family members differed across geographic locations of A. arguta. RT-qPCR revealed that the expression of the CBF gene family differed under low-temperature treatment; specifically, we observed differences in the expression of all the genes. Based on phylogenetic relationships and RT-qPCR analysis, the expression of AaCBF4.1 (AaCBF4) was found to be highly upregulated, and the function of this gene in cold resistance was further verified via overexpression in transgenic Arabidopsis. AaCBF4-overexpressing plants showed higher tolerance to cold stress, showing a higher germination rate, higher chlorophyll content and lower relative electrolyte leakage. In addition, compared with the wild-type Arabidopsis, the overexpressing plants exhibited significantly reduced oxidative damage due to the reduction in reactive oxygen species production under cold stress. Therefore, AaCBF4 plays an important role in improving the cold resistance of Actinidia arguta and can be further used to develop kiwifruit germplasm resources with strong cold resistance.
The Effect of High-Pressure Hydrostatic Extrusion on Mechanical Properties of Printed with Fused Deposition Modeling PLA and PLA-Diatomaceous Earth Composites
Authors: Dubicki Adrian , Kulczyk Mariusz , Szlązak Karol , Łojkowski Maciej , Kurzydłowski Krzysztof Jan
Published: February 2025

Three-dimensional printing enables rapid prototyping, customization, and on-demand production. Polylactide is a popular biopolymer filament used in 3D printing. However, due to its brittleness and low mechanical strength, it often needs to be reinforced with filler particles. Diatomaceous earth shows great potential as a filler material due to its abundant and natural occurrence, biocompatibility, and environmental friendliness, as well as its excellent mechanical properties. Cold hydrostatic extrusion was used to improve the compressive strength of 3D-printed parts. Both neat and reinforced with 10% diatomaceous earth filaments were used to 3D print cylindrical billets, followed by post-processing using hydrostatic extrusion. X-ray microtomography showed a significant reduction in total and open porosity and average pore size, from ~20 µm to less than 10 µm in the Polylactide (PLA) and Diatomaceous (DE) composite. Compression tests showed a significant improvement in the compressive strength of PLA from ~60 MPa to ~100 MPa, while PLA with DE achieved an impressive almost twofold increase to 80–120 MPa. This was attributed to a reduction in pore size, as well as pore closure, which mitigates crack initiation in semi-brittle PLA. In addition, it has been proposed that hydro extrusion-induced structural rearrangement is an important strengthening factor.
Fuzzy Flocking Control for Multi-Agents Trapped in Dynamic Equilibrium Under Multiple Obstacles
Authors: Liang Weibin , Sun Xiyan , Ji Yuanfa , Liu Xinyi , Wu Jianhui , He Zhongxi
Published: February 2025

The Olfati-Saber flocking (OSF) algorithm is widely used in multi-agent flocking control due to its simplicity and effectiveness. However, this algorithm is prone to trapping multi-agents in dynamic equilibrium under multiple obstacles, and dynamic equilibrium is a key technical issue that needs to be addressed in multi-agent flocking control. To overcome this problem, we propose a dynamic equilibrium judgment rule and design a fuzzy flocking control (FFC) algorithm. In this algorithm, the expected velocity is divided into fuzzy expected velocity and projected expected velocity. The fuzzy expected velocity is designed to make the agent escape from the dynamic equilibrium, and the projected expected velocity is designed to tow the agent, bypassing the obstacles. Meanwhile, the sensing radius of the agent is divided into four subregions, and a nonnegative subsection function is designed to adjust the attractive/repulsive potentials in these subregions. In addition, the virtual leader is designed to guide the agent in achieving group goal following. Finally, the experimental results show that multi-agents can escape from dynamic equilibrium and bypass obstacles at a faster velocity, and the minimum distance between them is consistently greater than the minimum safe distance under complex environments in the proposed algorithm.
Real-Time Modeling of Static, Dynamic and Mixed Eccentricity in Permanent Magnet Synchronous Machines
Authors: Pérez Ramón , Cros Jérôme , Picard Mathieu
Published: February 2025

Eccentricity faults are one of the main causes that significantly affect the performance of permanent magnet synchronous machines (PMSMs). Monitoring eccentricity in real time could prevent failures by adapting operation conditions and maintenance schedule when early signs of deterioration are detected. This article proposes making a circuit-type model of a permanent magnet machine with an easily configurable eccentricity for simulations and real-time analysis of signals under different operating conditions. The basis for the construction of the circuit model will be the simulation of the PMSM with 49 different coordinates of the rotor center, using the finite element analysis (FEA). The presence of eccentricity causes a variation in the inductances, the no-load flux and the expansion torque depending on the position of the rotor. The model proposes the use of bilinear interpolation (BI) to estimate the inductance matrix, the no-load flux vector captured by the stator winding and the cogging torque due to the presence of the magnets in the rotor, all of them for each rotor position. The validation is done by comparing the precision in the results of the machine’s self-inductances, the torque and the voltage waveform at the PMSM terminals and the static torque of the PMSM. The circuit model results are validated in two ways: (1) through experimental simulation, comparing the same results obtained using FEA and (2) through practical experimentation, producing a dynamic eccentricity in the machine of 0.3 mm. The results show that the proposed model is capable of accurately reproducing the behavior of the PMSM against eccentricity faults and presents computational time savings close to 99% compared to the response time obtained using FEA. This rapid PMSM model, parameterizable according to the degree of eccentricity, is the basis for the real-time simulation of the main machine waveforms, such as voltage, current and torque.
A Model-Based Method Applying Sliding Mode Methodology for SynRM Sensorless Control
Authors: Ilioudis Vasilios C.
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a new sensorless approach is proposed to address the speed and position estimation of the Synchronous Reluctance Machine (SynRM). The design of the sensorless control algorithm is developed on the basis of the modified SynRM mathematical model employing a simple sliding mode observer (SMO) and a modified EMF observer that are connected in series. All variables of the modified SynRM model are expressed in the arbitrary rotating frame, which is the so-called estimated γδ reference frame. The derived modified rotor flux terms contain angle error information in the form of trigonometric functions. Initially, the modified rotor flux is expressed as a function of saliency and the stator current id, including the angular deviation between the dq and γδ reference frames, which are rotating at synchronous and estimated speeds, respectively. A suitably designed SMO is utilized to estimate the modified stator flux components in the γδ reference frame. Once the SMO operates in sliding mode, the derived equivalent control inputs of the flux/current observer are used to obtain the required angular position and speed information of rotor by means of the modified EMF and Speed/Position observer. Only measures of stator voltages and currents are required for the speed and position estimation. In addition, Lyapunov Candidate Functions (LCFs) have been applied to determine the sliding mode existence conditions and the gains of the modified EMF observer. The SynRM observer–controller system is tested and evaluated in a wide speed range, even at very low speeds, in the presence of torque load disturbances. Simulation results demonstrate the overall efficacy and robustness of the proposed sensorless approach. Moreover, simulation tests verify the fast convergence and high performance of the modified EMF/speed/angle observer.
Classical Layer-Resolving Scheme for a System of Two Singularly Perturbed Time-Dependent Problems with Discontinuous Source Terms and Spatial Delay
Authors: Mathiyazhagan Joseph Paramasivam , Karuppusamy Ramiya Bharathi , Chatzarakis George E. , Panetsos S. L.
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a classical layer-resolving finite difference scheme is formulated to solve a system of two singularly perturbed time-dependent initial value problems with discontinuity occurring at (y,t) in the source terms and Robin initial conditions. The delay term occurs in the spatial variable, and the leading term of the spatial derivative of each equation is multiplied by a distinct small positive perturbation parameter, inducing layer behaviors in the solution domain. Due to the presence of perturbation parameters, discontinuous source terms, and delay terms, initial and interior layers occur in the solution domain. In order to capture the abrupt change that occurs due to the behavior of these layers, the solution is further decomposed into smooth and singular components. Layer functions are also formulated in accordance with layer behavior. Analytical results and bounds of the solution and its components are derived. The formulation of a finite difference scheme involves discretization of temporal and spatial axes by uniform and piecewise uniform meshes, respectively. The formulated scheme achieves first-order convergence in both time and space. At last, to bolster the numerical scheme, example problems are computed to prove the efficacy and accuracy of our scheme.
Effectiveness of PEER Intervention on Older Adults’ Physical Activity Time Series Using Smoothing Spline ANOVA
Authors: Liu Yi , Liu Chang , Ni Liqiang , Zhang Wei , Chen Chen , Lopez Janet , Zheng Hao , Thiamwong Ladda , Xie Rui
Published: February 2025

Falls are a major cause of injury among older adults. The Physio-fEedback Exercise pRogram (PEER) combines physio-feedback, cognitive reframing, and guided exercises to reduce fall risk. However, its impact on physical activity (PA) over time is underexplored. Functional time-series analysis offers insight into behavior patterns and sustainability. This preliminary study assessed PEER’s effectiveness in improving PA levels immediately and over time. A total of 64 community-dwelling older adults were cluster-randomized into PEER (N=33) or control groups (N=31). Participants wore Fitbit trackers, generating time-series data on activity. The PEER group completed an 8-week program, while the control group received CDC fall prevention pamphlets. PA data were analyzed using smoothing spline analysis of variance (SSANOVA), chosen for its flexibility in modeling complex, non-linear relationships in time-series data and its ability to handle skewed distributions and repeated measures. Unlike traditional parametric models, SSANOVA decomposes temporal trends into interpretable components, capturing both smooth trends and abrupt changes, such as those occurring on group workout days. This capability ensures robust and nuanced analysis of intervention effects. Results showed PEER participants significantly increased evenly and had very active minutes and reduced sedentary behavior during the intervention. No significant effect was found for light active minutes. Specifically, during the intervention period, PEER participants engaged in an average of 6.7% fewer sedentary minutes per day, 13.8% additional fairly active minutes per day, and 2.8% additional very active minutes per day compared to the control group. While the reduction in sedentary minutes and increase in fairly active minutes were not statistically significant, the increase in very active minutes was significant. However, our functional time-series analysis revealed these improvements diminished over the 15-week follow-up, indicating challenges in maintaining PA. In conclusion, PEER boosts PA and reduces sedentary behavior short-term, but strategies are needed to sustain these benefits. In conclusion, PEER boosts PA and reduces sedentary behavior short-term, but strategies are needed to sustain these benefits. Public health policies should emphasize technology-driven fall risk assessments, community-based prevention programs, and initiatives that promote physical activity, home safety, and chronic condition management.
Constrained Underdiagonal Paths and Pattern Avoiding Permutations
Authors: Frosini Andrea , Guerrini Veronica , Rinaldi Simone
Published: February 2025

Moving from a simple bijection P between permutations Sn of length n and underdiagonal paths of size n, The we study and enumerate families of underdiagonal paths which are defined by restricting the bijection P to subclasses of Sn avoiding some vincular patterns. In particular, we will consider patterns of lengths 3 and 4, and, when it is possible, we will provide a characterization of the underdiagonal paths related to them in terms of geometrical constraints, or equivalently, the avoidance of some factors. Finally, we will provide a recursive growth of these families by means of generating trees and then their enumerative sequence.
A Stochastic Model for Traffic Incidents and Free Flow Recovery in Road Networks
Authors: Mouhous Fahem , Aissani Djamil , Farhi Nadir
Published: February 2025

This study addresses the disruptive impact of incidents on road networks, which often lead to traffic congestion. If not promptly managed, congestion can propagate and intensify over time, significantly delaying the recovery of free-flow conditions. We propose an enhanced model based on an exponential decay of the time required for free flow recovery between incident occurrences. Our approach integrates a shot noise process, assuming that incidents follow a non-homogeneous Poisson process. The increases in recovery time following incidents are modeled using exponential and gamma distributions. We derive key performance metrics, providing insights into congestion risk and the unlocking phenomenon, including the probability of the first passage time for our process to exceed a predefined congestion threshold. This probability is analyzed using two methods: (1) an exact simulation approach and (2) an analytical approximation technique. Utilizing the analytical approximation, we estimate critical extreme quantities, such as the minimum incident clearance rate, the minimum intensity of recovery time increases, and the maximum intensity of incident occurrences required to avoid exceeding a specified congestion threshold with a given probability. These findings offer valuable tools for managing and mitigating congestion risks in road networks.
Analysis of a Malaria Transmission Model with Vaccination Proportion and Vaccine-Induced Immunity
Authors: Naandam Samuel M. , Chataa Paul , Gogovi Gideon K.
Published: February 2025

This study presents a mathematical model to describe the transmission dynamics of malaria in a highly endemic region, with a focus on vaccination and vaccine-induced immunity as primary control measures. By determining the basic reproduction number (R0), we evaluate the impact of these interventions on malaria-free and malaria-persistent equilibria. Our analysis shows that the malaria-free equilibrium is locally asymptotically stable when R0<1 and unstable otherwise. Numerical simulations demonstrate that increasing vaccination coverage and improving vaccine-induced immunity significantly reduce R0. A sensitivity analysis using partial rank correlation coefficients highlights the influence of key parameters, such as the mosquito-to-human transmission rate and mosquito birth and death rates, on malaria transmission. These findings underscore the potential of integrated strategies, combining vaccination with other interventions, to manage malaria effectively in highly endemic regions.
Separate and Combined Effects of Moderate-Intensity Exercise Training and Detraining with Protocatechuic Acid (PCA) on Myokines and Insulin-Signaling Pathways in Male Wistar Rats: A Preclinical Randomized Study
Authors: Shakoor Hira , Kizhakkayil Jaleel , Statsenko Yauhen , Platat Carine
Published: February 2025

Background: Exercise training positively modulates myokine secretion and improves glucose metabolism. Herein, we analyzed the effect of moderate-intensity training, detraining, and Protocatechuic Acid (PCA) supplementation on myokine secretions and regulation of insulin-signaling pathways. Methods: A five-arm study was conducted on 47 healthy male Wistar rats, trained at a moderate intensity level for four weeks (T0-T4). Animals were randomly classified into groups according to PCA supplementation and exercise durations: four weeks of Aerobic Training with or without PCA (AT4, AT4-PCA), eight weeks of Aerobic Training with or without PCA (AT8, AT8-PCA), and PCA Vehicle Control (VC). The animals were followed up until week 12 (T12). We decapitated six rats at T0 and T4, four rats per group at T8, and three rats per group at T12. Myokines (IGF-1, IL-6, FGF-21, myostatin, and irisin) were analyzed with ELISA. Western blot analysis measured protein expression of insulin-signaling pathways and GLUT-4 in the gastrocnemius muscle. Results: The IL-6 levels increased significantly (p < 0.01) with 8-week training in AT8 by 34% and AT8-PCA by 32%, compared to groups trained for only 4 weeks (AT4 and AT4-PCA). Similarly, the PI3K, and GLUT-4 expression improved in AT8 and AT8-PCA at T8. Training for 4 weeks improved IGF-1 levels, but a further 14% improvement was observed with 8-week training in AT8 at T8. Myostatin level significantly dropped by 27% even with 4-week training (p < 0.001). However, detraining increased the myostatin levels in all groups, but in AT8-PCA with PCA dose, myostatin reduced by 11% compared to AT8 at T12. PCA supplementation reduced the FGF-21 levels by 54% during detraining at T12 in AT8-PCA compared to AT8. However, the irisin level did not change markedly in any group. Conclusions: Physical training (with and without PCA) modulates myokine production and improves glucose metabolism, but the benefits are lost after detraining.
Metabolomic Insights into Smoking-Induced Metabolic Dysfunctions: A Comprehensive Analysis of Lipid and Amino Acid Metabolomes
Authors: Aslam Muhammad Amtiaz , Iqbal Hajra , Ilyas Kainat , Rehman Kanwal , Hussain Amjad , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Shahid Mudassar , Chen Shuqing
Published: February 2025

Background: Cigarette smoking is a leading cause of preventable mortality, largely due to the absence of effective, non-invasive biomarkers for early disease detection. Profiling serum metabolomics to identify metabolic changes holds the potential to accelerate the detection process and identify individuals at risk of developing smoking-related diseases. Objectives: This study investigated the biochemical and metabolomic changes induced by nicotine exposure, with a focus on disruptions in amino acid, lipid, and carbohydrate metabolism. Methods: Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was employed to observe significant disruptions in lipid and amino acid metabolism, along with alterations in key metabolic pathways. A total of 400 smokers and 100 non-smokers were included to evaluate the biomarkers related to insulin resistance, blood lipid profile, inflammation, and kidney and liver function. Results: The results demonstrated significantly elevated (p < 0.05) levels of glycemic markers in smokers, including fasting blood glucose; glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c); and inflammatory markers such as interleukin-6 (IL-6) and C-reactive protein (CRP). Smokers also exhibited dyslipidemia, with increased total cholesterol (154.888 ± 35.565) and LDL levels (117.545 ± 24.138). Impaired liver and kidney function was evident, with significantly higher levels (p < 0.05) of AST, ALP, ALT, blood urea nitrogen, and creatinine in smokers. A total of 930 metabolites were identified, of which 343 exhibited significant alterations (p < 0.05) in smokers compared to non-smokers. Among these, 116 metabolites were upregulated, and 127 were downregulated. Metabolomic pathway analysis revealed eight significant pathways. The study also identified three lipid metabolites specific to smokers and seven unique to non-smokers. Through LC-MS/MS, fragments of phenylalanine, tryptophan, valine, histidine, carnitine, and sphinganine were detected. Several lipidomic changes associated with insulin resistance and cardiovascular complications were observed. Cadmium (Cd) levels were higher in smokers than non-smokers (1.264 ppb vs. 0.624 ppb) and showed a strong negative correlation (R2 = 0.8061, p-value = 0.015) with serum zinc (Zn), likely due to Cd displacing Zn in proteins and causing nephrotoxicity through accumulation. Conclusions: This study highlights the distinct metabolic disruptions caused by smoking that could serve as potential biomarkers for the early detection of metabolic diseases. It emphasizes the importance of metabolomics in identifying systemic indicators of smoking-related health issues, providing new opportunities for preventive and therapeutic interventions.
Electro-Elastic Instability and Turbulence in Electro-osmotic Flows of Viscoelastic Fluids: Current Status and Future Directions
Authors: Sasmal Chandi
Published: February 2025

The addition of even minute amounts of solid polymers, measured in parts per million (ppm), into a simple Newtonian fluid like water significantly alters the flow behavior of the resulting polymer solutions due to the introduction of fluid viscoelasticity. This viscoelastic behavior, which arises due to the stretching and relaxation phenomena of polymer molecules, leads to complex flow dynamics that are starkly different from those seen in simple Newtonian fluids under the same conditions. In addition to polymer solutions, many other fluids, routinely used in various industries and our daily lives, exhibit viscoelastic properties, including emulsions; foams; suspensions; biological fluids such as blood, saliva, and cerebrospinal fluid; and suspensions of biomolecules like DNA and proteins. In various microfluidic platforms, these viscoelastic fluids are often transported using electro-osmotic flows (EOFs), where an electric field is applied to control fluid movement. This method provides more precise and accurate flow control compared to pressure-driven techniques. However, several experimental and numerical studies have shown that when either the applied electric field strength or the fluid elasticity exceeds a critical threshold, the flow in these viscoelastic fluids becomes unstable and asymmetric due to the development of electro-elastic instability (EEI). These instabilities are driven by the normal elastic stresses in viscoelastic fluids and are not observed in Newtonian fluids under the same conditions, where the flow remains steady and symmetric. As the electric field strength or fluid elasticity is further increased, these instabilities can transition into a more chaotic and turbulent-like flow state, referred to as electro-elastic turbulence (EET). This article comprehensively reviews the existing literature on these EEI and EET phenomena, summarizing key findings from both experimental and numerical studies. Additionally, this article presents a detailed discussion of future research directions, emphasizing the need for further investigations to fully understand and harness the potential of EEI and EET in various practical applications, particularly in microscale flow systems where better flow control and increased transport rates are essential.
A Promising Approach for the Food Industry: Enhancing Probiotic Viability Through Microencapsulated Synbiotics
Authors: Malos Iuliu Gabriel , Pasarin Diana , Ghizdareanu Andra-Ionela , Frunzareanu Bogdan
Published: February 2025

The role of prebiotics and probiotics in promoting gut health is increasingly recognized in food development and nutrition research. This study explored the enhancement of probiotic viability in the food industry through microencapsulated synbiotics, focusing on Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NCIMB 11974 with fructooligosaccharides (FOSs) and inulin as prebiotics. The effect of encapsulation in a chitosan-coated alginate matrix on probiotic survival under simulated gastrointestinal conditions showed a significant effect of 2% FOS concentration on the growth of Lactiplantibacillus plantarum NCIMB 11974. The optimization of microencapsulation parameters by the Taguchi method revealed a 2% sodium alginate concentration, a nozzle size of 200 µm, and a concentration of 0.4% chitosan solution as ideal, producing microcapsules with an estimated average diameter of 212 µm. Viability assessments in simulated gastric juice and simulated intestinal juice showed that chitosan-coated alginate microcapsules notably enhanced probiotic survival, achieving log 8 CFU mL−1 viability in both environments, a marked improvement over the uncoated variant. The study emphasizes the importance of microencapsulation, particularly by sodium alginate and chitosan, as a viable strategy to improve the survival and delivery of probiotics through the digestive system. By improving the stability and survivability of probiotics, microencapsulation promises to expand the use of synbiotics in various foods, contributing to the development of functional foods with health-promoting properties.
Traditionally Used Edible Flowers as a Source of Neuroactive, Antioxidant, and Anti-Inflammatory Extracts and Bioactive Compounds: A Narrative Review
Authors: Książkiewicz Maciej , Karczewska Michalina , Nawrot Filip , Korybalska Katarzyna , Studzińska-Sroka Elżbieta
Published: February 2025

Edible flowers are becoming a popular addition to diets. As science has progressed, it has been proven that in addition to their aesthetic value, they possess pharmacological effects and health-promoting properties. Several edible flowers are used in medicine, and the available literature data indicate their broad biological activity. This review focuses on pharmacological knowledge about the neuroactive, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory potential of 15 traditionally used edible flowers. It also describes their traditionally uses and summarizes research findings on their chemical composition.