bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lung metastasis in soft tissue sarcomas: survival and risk factors using the SEER database
Authors: Rizk Paul A. , Gonzalez Marcos R. , Hodo Thomas W. , Lozano-Calderon Santiago A.
Published: February 2025

Aim: To investigate patients with soft tissue sarcoma (STS) and evaluate (1) factors associated with lung metastases at the time of diagnosis; (2) the impact these factors had on overall survival; and (3) the impact of the metastatic site on survival.

Methods: We utilized the SEER database to analyze data from 14,520 patients diagnosed with STS between 2010 and 2018. Inclusion criteria included histologically confirmed STS of the lower limb, upper limb, or pelvis. Demographic, oncologic, and survival data were extracted, including tumor size, histopathology, AJCC staging, and metastatic status. Univariable and multivariable analyses identified risk factors for lung metastasis and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used to assess disease-specific survival (DSS).

Results: Of the 13,372 patients with STS, 7.9% had lung metastases at diagnosis. Undifferentiated pleomorphic sarcoma, leiomyosarcoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma were the most common STS presenting with lung metastasis. Patients who present with STS of the lower extremity, higher grade, and either leiomyosarcoma, spindle cell, or synovial cell sarcoma were more likely to present with lung metastases. Patients with lung metastases had worse survival than patients without metastases. However, survival was better in patients with isolated lung metastases than in those with any combination of lung, bone, brain, and/or liver metastases.

Conclusion: Tumor location, grade, T score, and lymph node involvement were significant risk factors for lung metastasis. A deeper understanding of risk factors for lung metastases presents a new opportunity for investigation in management. As expected, patients who present with lung metastases have worse overall survival.
Advantages and ethics of artificial intelligence in plastic and reconstructive surgery
Authors: Treger Dylan , Harris Griffin , Thaller Seth R.
Published: February 2025

As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies evolve in sophistication, they offer the potential to benefit various aspects of plastic and reconstructive surgery practice. From enhancing surgical precision within the operating room to streamlining administrative tasks and supporting the diagnosis and treatment of patients, AI may grow into an invaluable tool that redefines standards of care within plastic surgery. Given the nascent and largely theoretical role of AI in plastic surgery, numerous questions arise regarding its safety, actual utility, ethical considerations, and policies needed to regulate its use. This manuscript aims to provide commentary on AI in healthcare and to discuss an alternative viewpoint of its use in plastic surgery. Americans remain hesitant about healthcare providers leveraging AI in their care. Ongoing scrutiny is required to protect patients from unintended sequelae, safeguard their privacy, mitigate bias, and reduce harm. Early legislation by the United States federal government has aimed to define a role for AI in healthcare, yet more explicit guidance is required. Uncertainty in medico-legal implications begs the question of where liability would fall if AI use causes adverse outcomes. If applied appropriately, AI may ultimately improve patient outcomes and satisfaction with their plastic surgery care. With less energy dedicated toward automatable tasks and tools that push the envelope of human performance, plastic surgeons may be better equipped to care for their patients. We advocate for a cautiously optimistic approach to AI’s incorporation within plastic and reconstructive surgery.
Trusted Energy-Aware, Hierarchical Routing (TEAHR) for Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: K. Vikas , Wahi Charu , Sagar Bharat Bhushan , Manjul Manisha
Published: February 2025

These days, wireless sensor networks (WSNs) are expanding fast and are used in many fields such as healthcare, battlefields, etc. Depending upon the sensor, they are transmitting a few bytes to megabytes, which is a considerable amount of data in a short duration, so security is a significant issue while transferring the data. Furthermore, it is essential to solve security concerns while transferring data by secure routing in wireless sensor networks, which critically depend on energy consumption. Trust is an essential parameter of reliable and safe communication between sensor nodes in dynamic WSNs. By developing trust relationships between sensor nodes, trust management is a successful method to overcome these issues. In WSNs, trust estimation methods are primarily employed in order to improve confidence, trustworthiness, system performance, lifecycle, decision-making processes, and relationships of cooperation among sensor nodes. The fundamental requirements of WSN are energy, connectivity, extended lifetime of the network, the availability of nodes, exchange of information, and memory overheads. In this paper, we present a novel trust-based algorithm to access the level of Trust among nodes called Trust-Based Energy-Aware Hierarchical Routing (TEAHR) in order to foster more reliable and energy-efficient WSNs. Several trust metrics like energy trust, forwarding Trust, consistency Trust behaviour and much more these ratings help in identifying potential malicious nodes (anomaly), hence ensuring network availability. With the exception of large-scale networks, we have performed a comparative study on another algorithm as well and demonstrated that the proposed model exhibits lower latency when compared to other models in terms of energy consumption (more significant) and the packet forwarding rate/lower. The comparisons of TEAHR with conventional techniques show that the proposed algorithm reduces total latency by 15%, enhances energy efficiency by around 20%, and maintains a stable packet forwarding rate, which is highly desirable for accurate operation in adversarial environments, as demonstrated through comparative analysis.
Towards a Greener Future: A Systematic Review of Sustainable Practices in Digital Technologies
Authors: William Barnty , Mabel Emmanuel
Published: February 2025

This systematic review explores the integration of sustainable practices within digital technologies, highlighting their potential to contribute to a greener future. As digital technologies continue to advance, their environmental impact has become a critical concern. This review synthesizes current research on energy-efficient computing, eco-friendly hardware design, green data centers, sustainable software engineering, and the role of digital technologies in promoting environmental sustainability. By examining various case studies, best practices, and challenges, the paper identifies key trends and innovations that foster sustainable digital practices. The review also presents an analysis of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and the Internet of Things, assessing their capacity to support eco-friendly development. The findings emphasize the need for collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and researchers to align digital innovation with environmental goals. Ultimately, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the intersection between sustainability and digital technologies, offering insights for future development towards a more sustainable digital ecosystem.
The Combined Decision Problem: “Pull” vs. “Push” and the Degree of Centralization of Warehousing in the Field of Physical Distribution
Authors: Milewski Dariusz
Published: February 2025

The article presents the problem of efficiency of the distribution system with different strategies - “Pull” or “Push” and different sizes of distribution networks. The problem relates to the case where products are shipped to the customers through the distribution network. The problem addressed by the author concerns the method of replenishing stocks in these warehouses by the production plant. The author hypothesized that the profitability of using the Pull or Push strategy depends on the number of warehouses - and vice versa: not only how many warehouses (or distribution centers) there are, but also how the stocks stored in them are replenished. For this reason, both of these decision problems should be considered together. The profitability of a particular combination of these two strategies depends on the costs of the logistics and production processes, the parameters of the distributed products and the parameters of demand. This hypothesis has been confirmed. The author developed a simulation model to calculate the effects of applying a given strategy on the availability of these stocks to customers and the levels of stocks. The model was used to simulate different scenarios (different demand distribution - Gauss or Gamma and different demand fluctuations). The results obtained can be further used to calculate the economic efficiency of these strategies, which is also presented in the article as an example of the application of this model. With more expensive goods and higher fluctuations in sales, there is a certain tendency to centralize storage and use Pull strategies. A given strategy - Pull or Push - is not necessarily related to a given competitive strategy (competing with lower costs or better service). Each of these strategies may result in lower total costs or higher level of Logistics Customer Service measured by the availability of the products to customers.
Action-Based Undo: A Novel Undo System in Physics-Based 3D Virtual Environment
Authors: Han Sang Yup , Park Jung-Min
Published: February 2025

With the advancement of VR technology, the demand for highly immersive virtual environments has increased, driving VR adoption across various fields. This has led to growing interest in physics-based 3D virtual environments, where real-world physical principles are incorporated. In virtual environments, undo functionality allows users to quickly recover from unintended errors. While conventional 2D undo mechanisms remain applicable in non-physics-based 3D virtual spaces, they are less effective in realistic physics-based 3D virtual environments, where objects are influenced by physical forces such as gravity and friction, leading to unintended cascading interactions among multiple objects. To address this challenge, this study proposes Action-based Undo, a novel 3D undo mechanism, designed to effectively restore cascading interactions. A user study with 24 participants, compared three conditions: Action-based Undo, Object-based Undo (a conventional 2D-like approach), and No Undo using a domino task in a physics-based 3D virtual environment. Experimental results showed that Action-based Undo required the fewest interactions and the shortest recovery time, demonstrating superior task efficiency. Usability evaluations indicated positive user responses when a 3D undo function was available, particularly for Action-based Undo and Object-based Undo. The proposed Action-based Undo mechanism provides an effective solution for enhancing efficiency and usability in physics-based 3D virtual environments where frequent cascading interactions occur.
Anticonvulsant Potential and Toxicological Profile of Verbesina persicifolia Leaf Extracts: Evaluation in Zebrafish Seizure and Artemia salina Toxicity Models
Authors: López-Rosas Carlos Alberto , González-Periañez Santiago , Pawar Tushar Janardan , Zurutuza-Lorméndez Jorge , Ramos-Morales Fernando Rafael , Olivares-Romero José Luís , Saavedra Vélez Margarita Virginia , Hernández-Rosas Fabiola
Published: February 2025

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder with significant treatment challenges, necessitating the search for alternative therapies. This study evaluates the anticonvulsant activity and toxicological profile of Verbesina persicifolia leaf extracts. Methanolic and sequential fractions (hexane, dichloromethane, ethyl acetate, and methanol) were tested using a pentylenetetrazole (PTZ)-induced seizure model in zebrafish (Danio rerio), measuring seizure latency, severity, and survival rates. Phytochemical analysis identified flavonoids, alkaloids, and steroids, suggesting neuroactive potential. Ethyl acetate and hexane fractions significantly increased seizure latency and survival rates, with co-administration of hexane extract and diazepam enhancing these effects. Toxicity assessment in Artemia salina indicated low to moderate toxicity in methanolic extracts, whereas sequential fractions exhibited higher toxicity, particularly in hexane and ethyl acetate extracts. Cell viability assays in chicken embryo fibroblasts confirmed a concentration-dependent safety profile. The findings suggest that V. persicifolia extracts exert anticonvulsant effects, likely through GABAergic modulation, and have a favorable safety profile at therapeutic doses. These results support further investigations to isolate active constituents and explore their potential as plant-derived anticonvulsant agents.
A Retrospective Cohort Study on the Side Effects of Intrathecal Morphine Administration Combined with General Anaesthesia Versus General Anaesthesia Alone in Prostatectomy Patients
Authors: Schnabel Timon Marvin , Baagil Hanaa , Kutun Kim Karen , Eisenberger Claus , Gerbershagen Mark Ulrich
Published: February 2025

Background and aims: Prostatectomy is a common surgical procedure for prostate cancer, the most frequently diagnosed cancer in the male population. The choice of anaesthetic technique has a significant impact on postoperative pain management. The changes in recommendations between 2015 and 2021 prompted this study to evaluate the impact of intrathecal morphine administration in combination with general anaesthesia compared to general anaesthesia alone on postoperative analgesic consumption and associated side effects. Material and Methods: A single center retrospective cohort study was conducted, analysing data from 202 patients who underwent prostatectomy between 2015 and 2021. Patients were divided into two groups: 147 patients received intrathecal morphine combined with general anaesthesia, while 49 patients received general anaesthesia alone. Key postoperative parameters, including Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) scores, analgesic consumption, and side effects (e.g., nausea, pruritus, hypotension, respiratory depres-sion) were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed using Mann-Whitney U-tests and multiple regression models. Results: The group receiving intrathecal morphine showed a significant decrease in NRS pain scores at rest and during movement (p < 0.001). The need for postoperative analgesics, especially opioids such as piritramide, was reduced in this group. No significant increase in serious side effects such as respiratory depression was observed. Conclusion: The present study investigates the potential of intrathecal morphine combined with general anaesthesia as a promising approach to improve pain management in prostatectomy patients. By reducing pain intensity, this method shows significant clinical benefits. In addition, the absence of a significant increase in serious adverse events reinforces the safety of this approach. However, further studies are warranted to assess long-term outcomes and explore optimal dosing strategies. The re-introduction of this anaesthetic technique has great potential to improve patient recovery and satisfaction following major surgery.
Subcutaneous Lidocaine Infusion for Chronic Widespread Pain: A Chart Review and Survey Examining the Safety and Tolerability of Treatment
Authors: Gregoire Nina , Kaseweter Kimberley , Klukas Ethan , Sanan Anita , Louw W. Francois
Published: February 2025

Chronic widespread pain (CWP) is characterized by persistent pain across multiple body regions, often accompanied by fatigue, cognitive difficulties, and psychological distress. Background/Objectives: Affecting approximately 10% of the general population, CWP disproportionately impacts women, individuals from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, immigrants, and those with a family history of chronic pain. Standard treatments, including cognitive-behavioral therapy, exercise, and pharmacotherapy, often provide insufficient relief. This study explores a novel approach to treating treatment-resistant CWP: high-dose subcutaneous lidocaine infusions administered over extended periods. Methods: The research included a retrospective chart review and patient survey to evaluate safety and tolerability. The protocol started with a dose of 10-12 mg/kg of adjusted body weight, increasing by 10-15% per month, with a maximum dose of 2000 mg. Results: The chart review of 27 patients revealed mild to moderate side effects in seven patients, with no severe adverse events. A survey of 15 patients indicated a higher incidence of side effects; however, all patients reported that the benefits outweighed the negatives. On average, patients experienced 61% pain relief, lasting 19 days per infusion. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that subcutaneous lidocaine infusions are a well-tolerated treatment for CWP, offering significant pain relief and improving patients' quality of life.
Burnout in Pediatric Oncology: Team Building and Clay Therapy as a Strategy to Improve Emotional Climate and Group Dynamics
Authors: Guido Antonella , Peruzzi Laura , Tibuzzi Matilde , Sannino Serena , Dario Lucia , Petruccini Giulia , Stella Caterina , Viteritti Anna Maria , Becciu Antonella , Bianchini Francesca , Cucculelli Deborah , Di Lauro Carmela , Paglialonga Ivana , Pianezzi Sabina , Pistilli Roberta , Russo Sabrina , Adamo Paola , Chieffo Daniela Pia Rosaria , Talloa Dario , Romano Alberto , Ruggiero Antonio
Published: February 2025

Healthcare professionals in pediatric oncology are at high risk of burnout. Art therapy is increasingly recognized as a potential tool for reducing stress and improving emotional well-being. The Art-Out pilot project aimed at nursing staff was initiated in a pediatric oncology unit. The staff members participating in the project were guided in a team-building course integrated with art and clay therapy, aiming to reduce burnout levels, improve emotional climate and strengthen resilience. Methods: Burnout levels were assessed through the Maslach Burnout Inventory (MBI) before (T0) and after (T1) the team-building course (Art-Out project), alexithymia was measured with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale (TAS-20), and emotional regulation difficulties were evaluated through the Difficulties in Emotion Regulation Scale (DERS). Results: Data analysis showed a significant reduction in burnout, alexithymia, and emotional dysregulation, highlighting the positive impact of this approach in improving team dynamics and emotional management. Conclusions: Our study confirms the high risk of burnout, alexithymia and emotional dysregulation among pediatric oncology healthcare workers, underscoring the need for targeted interventions to prevent and mitigate these risks.
Exploring the Relationship Between Financial Education, Financial Attitude, Financial Advice and Financial Knowledge: Insights Through Financial Capabilities and Financial Well-Being
Authors: García-Santillán Arturo , Zamora-Lobato Ma. Teresa , Tejada-Peña Esmeralda , Valencia-Márquez Liduvina
Published: February 2025

This study analyzes the relationship between financial education, financial attitude, fi-nancial advice, financial knowledge and behavior and its influence in financial capabili-ties, and their impact on financial well-being. The population consists of individuals over 18 years of age, primarily higher education students. A non-probabilistic self-selection sampling method was used, and data were collected through an electronic form on Google Forms. The design is quantitative, non-experimental, and cross-sectional. The in-strument includes sections on sociodemographic profile, financial education, financial at-titudes and capabilities, and financial well-being, using a 1 to 5 Likert scale. To ensure va-lidity and reliability, statistical indices such as Cronbach’s alpha and McDonald’s omega were applied. Data normality was assessed, and exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were conducted using structural equation modeling (SEM). The findings from the results of this study largely align with the existing literature regarding the relationship between financial knowledge and financial capabilities, as well as between financial ca-pabilities and financial well-being. However, a discrepancy is observed in the hypotheses related to financial education, financial attitudes, and financial counseling, suggesting that although these factors are important, their influence may depend on other contextual elements or mediators not considered in this study. This opens the possibility for further investigation into how these factors interact in the development of financial capabilities.
Difficulties in the Application of Accounting and Management Control in Higher Education Institutions in Portugal
Authors: Borges Pedro , Alves Maria do Céu , Silva Rui
Published: February 2025

Approximately two decades after the approval of POCP, and following an assessment of the need for an accounting system that meets the demands of proper planning, accounta-bility, and financial control, the SNC-AP was introduced. This system, regulated by 27 Public Accounting Standards, has faced challenges in its implementation. Therefore, it is relevant to analyze how managers of Portuguese higher education institutions (HEIs) perceive this issue. The objective of this research is to determine whether HEI managers use management control tools, which management control models are adopted, and the difficulties encountered in their implementation. To achieve this, a qualitative empirical study will be conducted. Empirical data will be collected through interviews with manag-ers of Portuguese HEIs. The results show that management accounting is complex and challenging to implement. Portuguese HEIs are still in the early stages of adopting these tools, with progress limited to defining activities and cost centers. Conditions have not yet been established to calculate, for example, the cost per course, student, project, or service, as outlined in NCP27 of the SNC-AP.
Spatial Distribution and Intraspecific and Interspecific Associations of Dominant Tree Species in a Deciduous Broad-Leaved Forest in Shennongjia, China
Authors: Wei Jiaxin , Yang Linsen , Jiang Zhiguo , Yao Hui , Yu Huiliang , Luo Fanglin , Qiao Xiujuan , Xu Yaozhan , Jiang Mingxi
Published: February 2025

Studying the spatial distribution patterns, intraspecific and interspecific associations of tree species are crucial for understanding the maintenance of biodiversity and offering insights into community dynamics and stability. The Shennongjia National Park, located in the transition zone between the (sub-) tropics and the temperate climate holds great significance for understanding how species interact with each other and coexist within forest communities.
We used data from a full mapped 25-ha montane deciduous broadleaved forest dynamic plot at Shennongjia (SNJ) National Park, central China to conduct a community level evaluation of spatial distribution patterns and intraspecific and interspecific associations. We analyzed spatial distribution pattern of 20 dominant species with univariate and bivariate g(r) functions, as well as the intraspecific and interspecific associations across different life history stages. We assess the relative contributions of underlying processes in community assembly with three models: Complete Spatial Randomness (CSR), Heterogeneous Poisson (HP), and Antecedent Condition (AS). The results showed that all 20 tree species exhibit small-scale aggregation distribution. While, aggregation distribution degree decreased and mainly showed random or uniform distributions when excluded environmental heterogeneity. Positive associations were common in different life history stages. Negative associations were common across different species, while, most of the significant intraspecific and interspecific associations turned to be irrelevant when excluded environmental heterogeneity. We concluded that habitat heterogeneity and dispersal limitation may primarily determine the spatial distribution of species in the subtropical montane deciduous broad-leaved forest. This suggests that the forest is highly sensitive to environmental changes. Upcoming management approaches ought to concentrate on ongoing observation, crucial for mitigating how climate change might affect species distribution and community interactions, thus guaranteeing enduring stability and conservation of biodiversity.
Heterodyne Light Source Using Two Tandem Acousto-Optic Modulators Under Bragg Diffraction Conditions
Authors: Chiu Ming-Hung , Chiu Chao-Ching
Published: February 2025

We propose a novel heterodyne light source architecture employing two tandem acousto-optic modulators (AOM) operating under Bragg-diffraction conditions. A mirror and a half-wave plate are strategically positioned between the AOMs. By fine-tuning the angle of the mirror relative to the AOMs, only the +1st- or −1st-order light is generated, allowing the two light beams to coincide. The beat frequency is determined by the difference in modulation frequencies. In order to demonstrate the feasibility of this architecture, we use this light source in common-path heterodyne interferometry (CPHI) to measure the gold film thickness of a surface plasmon resonance (SPR) sensor. The experimental results are in good agreement with the outcomes of mathematical simulations.
Binary Representation of Natural Numbers and Collatz Conjecture
Authors: Feng Jishe
Published: February 2025

We propose a novel framework utilizing a full binary tree structure to systemati- 1 cally represent the set of natural numbers, which we classify into three subsets: pure odd 2 numbers, pure even numbers, and mixed numbers. Within this framework, we employ a 3 binary string representation for natural numbers and develop a comprehensive composite 4 methodology that integrate both odd- and even-number functions. Our investigation 5 centers on the iterative dynamics of the Collatz function and its reduced variant, which 6 effectively serves as a pruning mechanism for the full binary tree, enabling rigorous ex- 7 amination of the Collatz conjecture’s validity. To establish a robust foundation for this 8 conjecture, we ingeniously incorporate binary strings into an algebraic formulation that 9 fundamentally captures the intrinsic properties of the Collatz sequence. Through this 10 analytical framework, we demonstrate that the sequence generated by infinite iterations 11 of the Collatz function constitutes an eventually periodic sequence, thereby providing 12 a rigorous validation of this long-standing mathematical conjecture that has remained 13 unresolved for 87 years.
What Are the Optimal Sampling Time of Environmental Parameters? Fourier Analysis and Energy Harvesting to Reduce Sensors Consumption in Smart Greenhouses
Authors: Bua Cristian , Adami Davide , Giordano Stefano
Published: February 2025

Smart greenhouses offer crucial solutions for reducing atmospheric impact and resource waste. However, two fundamental challenges persist in their implementation: massive energy consumption and a high level of human intervention, particularly for sensor battery replacement or recharging. Unfortunately, sensors are indispensable in greenhouses and agriculture, such as for monitoring environmental parameters for air quality assessment. Therefore, while sensors cannot be eliminated, it is essential to optimize their energy consumption. This work introduces an energy-efficient monitoring system for smart greenhouses, aiming to reduce the energy consumption of individual sensors and enhance system sustainability. The study focuses on optimizing the sampling intervals of commonly monitored environmental parameters to minimize sensor energy usage while maintaining data acquisition accuracy adequate for the intended purpose. Additionally, to further reduce battery energy draw, an energy harvesting system using solar panels has been implemented. In conclusion, adopting an optimal sampling strategy for each parameter significantly reduces energy consumption compared to fixed, inefficient sampling intervals commonly used in commercial weather stations. Furthermore, by employing an energy harvesting system for each sensor, leveraging the light emitted by greenhouse lamps and external sources ensures the autonomy of sensors within the greenhouse, thereby minimizing the need for human intervention for battery replacement and recharging.
Adaptability in the Building Process: A Multifaceted Perspective Across the Life-Cycle of a Building
Authors: Staehr Efthymia Ratsou , Stevik Tor Kristian , Houck Leif Daniel
Published: February 2025

Adaptability is a crucial yet often misunderstood aspect of sustainable architecture. This study explores how adaptability can be systematically embedded from the early design phase through construction, use, and eventual transformation or repurposing. By conducting a comprehensive literature review, the research categorises adaptability into distinct types of change and examines their relevance at different project stages. The findings emphasise the necessity of incorporating adaptability considerations early in the process, ensuring that buildings can respond to evolving spatial, functional, and environmental demands over time. While existing research acknowledges the importance of adaptability, gaps remain in its practical application across the full building life cycle. This study addresses these gaps by proposing a methodology to support long-term decision-making and reduce obsolescence in the built environment. By promoting life-cycle thinking, this paper contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of adaptability, advocating for strategies that enhance the longevity and sustainability of buildings while responding to future uncertainties.
Evaluation of the Effect of the Guide Socket on the Primary Stability of the Miniscrew in a Polyurethane Cortical Bone Model
Authors: Ciğerim Levent , Kahraman Nazlı Hilal
Published: February 2025

There are only a few studies in the literature that have evaluated the effect of pilot drilling to create a guide socket on the primary stability of miniscrews. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of creating a guide socket during miniscrew insertion on the primary stability of the miniscrew in an in vitro PU cortical bone model. Polyurethane blocks with a density of 60 pcf were used for in vitro cortical bone modelling. 1.8 x 0.0 mm self-drilling mushroom-head titanium miniscrews were used. A 1 mm diameter surgical fissure drill was used to create the guide sockets in the study groups. A total of 45 miniscrews were included in the study in the no guide, 2mm deep guide and 4mm deep guide groups. The insertion torque values for the miniscrews in the 4mm guide socket group were significantly lower than the other groups, and the removal torque values for the miniscrews in the 2mm guide socket group were significantly higher than the other groups (p<0.01). This study demonstrated that the 60 pcf polyurethane block can be used for in vitro cortical bone modelling and that the creation of a 2mm deep guide socket increased the primary stability of the 1.8 x 8mm mushroom head miniscrew.
Uplift and Denudation History of the Jianfeng Pluton on Hainan Island, China
Authors: Lin Di , Xue Guicheng , Zheng Yong , Zhang Gucheng , Hu Zailong , Wei Changxin , Zhang Zhizhuang , Yuan Qinmin
Published: February 2025

Hainan Island is the only large island located on the northern margin of the South China Sea and is surrounded by Cenozoic graben basins, including the Qiongdongnan, Yinggehai, and Beibuwan basins. The uplift and denudation history of the Jianfeng pluton on southwestern Hainan Island is significant for understanding the formation of the regional geomorphology and adjacent basin evolution. This paper presents apatite and zircon fission-track (FT) analyses conducted on the Jianfeng pluton. The zircon FT (ZFT) ages of the pluton range from 63 ± 4 to 117 ± 8 Ma, and the apatite FT (AFT) ages from 19.4 ± 1.8 to 43.9 ± 4.4 Ma. The average confined track lengths in apatite are rela-tively short (11.9–12.8 μm). An age–elevation plot indicates that two rapid cooling events occurred during 73–63 and 44–40 Ma. Thermal modeling revealed a three-stage history of uplift and denudation. From the Late Cretaceous to middle Eocene (73–40 Ma), the Jianfeng area underwent episodic rapid uplift and denudation. At the end of the Late Cretaceous (73–63 Ma), the area was affected by mid-ocean ridge spreading in the Pro-to-South China Sea. During the middle Eocene (44–40 Ma), the Yinggehai Basin un-derwent abrupt expansion and subsidence, which increased the elevation difference between the Jianfeng area and the Yinggehai Basin. From the middle Eocene to middle Miocene (40–11 Ma), the Jianfeng area underwent slow denudation and the Yinggehai Basin was rapidly infilled, which eliminated the original elevation difference between the two areas. From the middle Miocene to present (11–0 Ma), the Jianfeng area has undergone reactivated rapid uplift and denudation, driven by the remote effects of In-dia–Eurasia collision.
Multimodal Fusion Network for Multimodal Sentiment Analysis
Authors: Ellison Blythe , Marwood Emily , Sinclair Huxley
Published: February 2025

Recent advances in pretrained language models have reshaped multimodal learning, yet this progress often comes with increased computational demands. In this paper, we introduce the \textbf{Enhanced Multimodal Fusion Network (EMFN)}, a novel architecture that integrates textual, acoustic, and visual signals for sentiment analysis. EMFN incorporates specialized adapter modules and cross-layer fusion strategies to effectively combine multimodal representations while preserving the robust features of the underlying frozen language model. By decoupling the pretrained weights from task-specific updates and utilizing lightweight, trainable fusion layers, our approach enables rapid and data-efficient adaptation. Empirical evaluations on the CMU-MOSEI dataset reveal that EMFN achieves a relative error reduction of $3.7\%$ and a $2.4\%$ improvement in seven-class classification accuracy compared to conventional fine-tuning techniques. These insights, alongside comprehensive experiments, attest to the robustness and adaptability of EMFN under challenging, noisy conditions.
Copeptin in Acute Myocardial Infarction: Is There a Role in the Era of High-Sensitivity Troponins?
Authors: Bezati Sofia , Ventoulis Ioannis , Bistola Vasiliki , Verras Christos , Matsiras Dionysis , Polyzogopoulou Effie , Parissis John T
Published: February 2025

The battle against coronary artery disease has been in the spotlight for decades. Ongoing research focuses on refined biomarker strategies for the early identification and disposition of patients with symptoms suggestive of acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Copeptin, a surrogate of the hormone arginine vasopressin, has emerged as a novel biomarker that could potentially aid in the diagnos-tic approach of patients with chest pain presenting to the emergency department. Observational studies have demonstrated that copeptin is upregulated in patients with AMI, although the exact pathophysiological mechanisms implicated in its release during myocardial ischemia remain un-clear. Following these observations, copeptin was proposed as an adjunct to troponin in an effort to augment diagnostic accuracy of conventional troponin assays. However, after the introduction of high-sensitivity troponin assays, the diagnostic utility of copeptin has been debated. This narra-tive review aims to elucidate plausible pathophysiological mechanisms involved in copeptin re-lease during myocardial ischemia and to summarize most recent evidence regarding its diagnostic potential in combination with high-sensitivity troponin assays.
Possibilities of magnetic resonance enterography in assessing the volume of small bowel lesions and the degree of inflammatory activity in Crohn’s disease in children
Authors:   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation, Prokhorenkova M.O. , Potapov A.S. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation, Eliseev D.A. ,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation, Vinokurova A.V. ,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation, Lokhmatov M.M. ,   I.M.Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University (Sechenov University), Moscow, Russian Federation,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation, Fisenko A.P. ,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Objective. To determine the significance of magnetic resonance enterography (MRE) based on activity indices in the diagnosis of small bowel lesions in children with Crohn’s disease (CD).
Patients and methods. The study included 132 patients with CD who underwent MRE and colonoscopy. Correlation analysis was performed between magnetic resonance indices of CD activity, MaRIA (Magnetic Resonance Index of Activity) and its simplified version MARIAs (simplified MARIA), and Simple Endoscopic Score for Crohn’s Disease/SES-CD. Diagnostic efficiency and threshold values in the evaluation of small bowel lesions according to MRE data using ROC analysis were determined.
Results. MRE was most effective in detecting stenotic changes in the ileocecal region. MaRIA and MARIAs indices demonstrated a strong correlation (ρ = 0.894, p < 0.001). When analyzing the correlations between segmental SES-CD and MARIAs in the iliac region, a strong correlation was found (ρ = 0.678, p < 0.001), as well as with MaRIA (ρ = 0.715, p < 0.001).
Conclusion. MRE is a non-invasive and safe method of evaluating the small bowel in children with CD. The developed magnetic resonance activity indices can be used to assess the disease activity, of which MARIAs is the easiest to use.
Key words: magnetic resonance enterography, Crohn’s disease, activity assessment, MaRIA, MARIAs
Functional gastrointestinal disorders in young children: current state of the problem
Authors:   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Gryaznova E.I. , Dubrovskaya M.I. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shumilov P.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Botkina A.S. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Ryazanova O.V. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation, Khandamirova O.O. ,   N.I.Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: February 2025

Objective. To study the correlation between the frequency of regurgitation, colic, and functional constipation in children aged 0 to 4 years and the psycho-emotional state of their mothers.
Patients and methods. A questionnaire survey was conducted including 310 mothers of children aged 0 to 4 years, 168 of whom were under 1 year of age. It was based on the questionnaire for the detection of functional gastrointestinal disorders according to the Rome IV Criteria with the inclusion of additional questions such as age and feeding type at the time of survey. The psycho-emotional state of mothers was assessed using the Beck Anxiety and Depression Inventories.
Results. The rate of maternal anxiety and depression of different severity was 44% and 52.4% of cases, respectively. The frequency of regurgitation in children was independent of the presence of anxiety and depression in their mothers. The presence of maternal depression increased the chance of colic in children by 2.8 times (p < 0.05). Maternal anxiety and depression statistically significantly increased the chance of constipation in children by 1.88 and 2.55 times, respectively (p < 0.05).
Conclusion. The development of colic in infants and functional constipation in young children correlates with maternal anxiety and depression.
Key words: functional gastrointestinal disorders, colic, regurgitation, constipation, depression, anxiety, early age, first year of life, mothers, children, lactulose
Caracterización epidemiológica de los usuarios atendidos en dos programas de mantenimiento con metadona en Colombia
Authors: Ramírez-Martínez Pablo Andrés , Rodríguez-Peñuela Julián David , Tirado-Otálvaro Andrés Felipe
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: caracterizar epidemiológicamente a los usuarios de dos programas de mantenimiento con metadona en dos ciudades de Colombia. Métodos: estudio observacional analítico transversal que analizó las historias clínicas de pacientes de dos programas de mantenimiento de metadona en Medellín y Cali durante el año 2022. Se realizó análisis descriptivo y bivariado. Resultados: participaron 250 pacientes entre 17 y 67 años con una mediana para la edad de 33 años (RIC = 29 - 38). El 80.4% (n=201) fueron hombres, la heroína fue el principal opioide por el que ingresaron con una proporción de 88.8% (n=222), seguido por el tramadol; el 27.6% (n=69) compartían jeringas para uso intravenoso y el 92.0% (n=230) manifestaron consumir dos o más drogas al mismo tiempo, siendo la marihuana y la cocaína las principales sustancias consumidas en simultáneo con los opioides. Las comorbilidades más prevalentes fueron: los trastornos de personalidad, la infección por hepatitis C y el comportamiento ilegal. Conclusiones: el uso de heroína por vía intravenosa y el uso compartido de jeringas se asociaron con un mayor riesgo de hepatitis C y VIH. Un hallazgo novedoso es el ingreso de personas al programa por uso exclusivo de tramadol, lo cual, si bien guarda relación con las tendencias mundiales frente al fenómeno de abuso de opioides de uso médico, no ha sido un evento frecuente en el contexto colombiano.
Asociación entre el fenotipo frágil depresivo y prevalencia de caídas: resultados del estudio AUNQUI-ANDES, 2022
Authors:   , Pineda Lerma Karen Eliana
Published: February 2025

Objetivo: Estimar la asociación entre el fenotipo frágil depresivo y la prevalencia de caídas en los adultos mayores del distrito de Totos, Cangallo, Ayacucho durante el 2022.
Materiales y métodos: Realizamos un análisis de bases secundarias de un estudio transversal analítico que incluyó a adultos mayores del distrito de Totos, Cangallo, Ayacucho durante el mes de agosto del año 2022. La fragilidad se definió con la presencia de tres a más puntos del fenotipo de Fried y los síntomas depresivos con dos a más puntos con la escala de GDS-5. El fenotipo frágil depresivo se definió con la presencia de ambas condiciones. El número de caídas se evaluó con una pregunta del cuestionario SARC-F. También incluimos características sociodemográficas, comorbilidades, hábitos nocivos, evaluación funcional y apoyo social de cada participante. Utilizamos modelos de regresión de Poisson, para evaluar la razón de prevalencia estimada (RP), asociación de interés con sus respectivos intervalos de confianza del 95% (IC 95%). Resultados: Se incluyeron en el estudio a 272 participantes geriátricos con una edad media de 75 ± 8,6 años, el 39,3% (n=107) tenían entre 71 a 80 años. El 59,9% (n=163) eran mujeres, el 83,1% (n=226) no presentaba educación/educación primaria incompleta y el 62,4% (n=171) era casado o conviviente. El 19,5% (n=53) de los adultos mayores tenían fragilidad, 57,3% (n=156) síntomas depresivos, 14,3% (n=39) fenotipo frágil depresivo y el 48,2% (n=131) caídas en el último año. El modelo de regresión de Poisson ajustado mostró la prevalencia de caídas que fue un 41% mayor entre aquellos con fenotipo frágil depresivo (aPR=1,41; IC 95%: 1,08-1,85; p=0,012) en adultos mayores que residen en gran altura. Conclusión: El fenotipo frágil depresivo...
A Universal Protocol for Faba Bean (Vicia faba L.) Tissue Culture and Transformation
Authors: Rashid Md Mamunur , Paridhi Paridhi , Mandava Sai Aravind , Grölz Marina , Knoblauch Babette , Tzigos Stavros , Snowdon Rod J. , Augustine Sruthy Maria
Published: February 2025

Background
Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is an important legume that enhances agricultural sustainability through nitrogen fixation and possesses high nutritional value. Breeding of faba bean is laborious and time consuming, and trait improvement could potentially be accelerated by new breeding technologies including gene editing, however tissue culture and genetic transformation are also challenging in V. faba.
Results
We established a universal protocol for efficient tissue culture and transformation of faba bean cultivars. Various hormone treatments to enhance shoot and root regeneration and development in tissue culture media were tested and optimized in a total of thirty-three faba bean cultivars. Indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) at a concentration of 1.5 mg/L induced effective regeneration among all tested cultivars. Genetic transformation was achieved using particle bombardment, with transformation efficiencies of 75.5% in cultivar Tiffany and 66.66% in cultivar Hedin/2. Successful transformation was validated by expression of green fluorescent protein (GFP) and PCR analysis.
Conclusions
A universal protocol generally applicable to a broad range of tested cultivars overcomes prior limitations in faba bean tissue culture and transformation, specifically addressing challenges related to phenolic compound production and inconsistencies in root formation. The practical application of this protocol, demonstrated by successful greenhouse acclimatization of regenerated plants, offers promising prospects for faba bean breeding programs. Our findings establish a solid foundation for future breeding and genetic research by improving tissue culture regeneration and transformation efficiency in faba beans. This is the first report of a reliable tissue culture and transformation protocol for V. faba cultivar Tiffany, for which a high-quality reference has been available since 2023.
Self-Assessed Competency among Clinical Research Professionals in the Philippines
Authors: Cabaluna Ian Theodore , Tampus Frangelo Conrad , Imbag Mark Dale , Ruam Edwin Jr
Published: February 2025

Background
The Philippines has significant potential as a clinical trial hub but faces a shortage of skilled clinical research professionals (CRPs). In 2022, a cross-sectional study assessed the self-assessed competencies of CRPs in 4 countries (Thailand, Vietnam, Congo, Philippines) using the Joint Task Force for Clinical Trial Competency (JTF) framework. This paper presents findings on the self-assessed competency and training needs of Filipino CRPs.
Methodology
We conducted a cross-sectional online survey among Filipino clinical research professionals from March to April 2022. We asked for their self-assessed competency, relevance to their roles, and training needs in the competency domains according to the JTF framework. We also asked for the skills in community engagement and research grant application of investigators. Results were summarized and analyzed according to their primary roles.
Results and Discussion
175 Filipino CRPs participated in the survey. They described themselves as “skilled” across all competency domains in conducting clinical research but did not rate themselves at an advanced level. They reported the lowest confidence in their skills related to study management, investigational product development and regulation, and data management. They exhibited greater confidence in competencies such as ethical considerations, professionalism, and communication. Notably, investigators had the lowest ratings in research design.
Conclusion
This study provides a comprehensive assessment of the self-perceived competencies of Filipino CRPs using the JTF Clinical Research Competency Framework. It identifies both strengths and areas for improvement. Addressing these through targeted competency-based training programs is essential to improving research quality and professional capacity in the Philippines.