bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exhaled Breath Biomarkers Reflect the Inflammasome and Lipidome Changes in Ischemic Heart Disease: Using Machine Learning Models and Network Analysis
Authors: Marzoog Basheer Abdullah , Chomakhidze Peter , Gognieva Daria , Silantyev Artemiy , Suvorov Alexander , Fedorova Alina Yur'evna , Kopylov Philipp
Published: February 2025

Ischemic heart disease (IHD) is a global health crisis exacerbated by diagnostic and preventive challenges. This study investigated associations between lipid profiles, inflammation biomarkers, and exhaled volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in IHD using machine learning. Eighty participants (31 IHD patients confirmed by computed tomography perfusion [CTP]; 49 controls) underwent CTP, breath analysis (PTR-TOF-MS-1000), and blood testing. LASSO regression with cross-validation analyzed links between VOCs, lipid parameters (HDL, LDL, ApoB, Lp(a), total cholesterol), and inflammation markers (IL-6, CRP). Controls showed minimal plasma biomarker-VOC correlations, whereas IHD patients demonstrated strong lipid-VOC relationships: HDL positively correlated with m/z 49.995 (r=0.31), and total cholesterol inversely with m/z 94.053 (r=−0.35). Key discriminative VOCs included 2-ethyl-2,5-dihydro-4,5-dimethylthiazole, HO3PS2, CH8N3P, and m/z 49,995.01251. IHD patients exhibited dynamic lipid-VOC interactions post-stress (e.g., ApoB, LDL), absent in controls. Inflammation markers had limited direct VOC ties but unique patterns: IL-6 inversely linked to total cholesterol in patients, contrasting with CRP/HDL correlations in controls. These findings highlight VOC-lipidome networks as potential non-invasive biomarkers for IHD-specific metabolic dysregulation. Integrating breathomics with machine learning may advance early diagnosis and personalized risk stratification, addressing critical gaps in IHD management.
Genicular Artery Embolization: A Technical Review of Anatomy, Pathophysiology, Current Experiences and Future Directions
Authors: Brown Joseph M , Vandeveer Zachary T , Cadoret Danielle , Morrison James J , Jahangiri Younes
Published: February 2025

Genicular artery embolization (GAE) is an emerging minimally invasive procedure for managing knee osteoarthritis (OA), a condition affecting 365 million individuals globally. Initially developed to treat hemarthrosis, GAE selectively embolizes abnormal genicular vasculature, targeting synovial inflammation and reducing neoangiogenesis. This process alleviates pain and improves joint function, providing an alternative for patients with mild to moderate OA who are not candidates for surgical interventions due to comorbidities or other factors. Current evidence supports the use of GAE for patients with mild-to-moderate OA who experience persistent symptoms despite conservative treatments such as physical therapy, weight management, or intra-articular injections The procedure effectively reduces pain, improves functionality, and provides sustained benefits. This review highlights the anatomical principles, procedural techniques, and patient selection criteria for GAE, as well as the clinical evidence supporting its safety and efficacy. It also explores potential future directions for research, including optimizing patient selection, evaluating long-term outcomes, and integrating GAE into routine OA management pathways.
Divergent Perspectives on Ecosystem-Based Adaptation: A Comparative Analysis of Governmental Officials and Farmers in Mountainous Communes of Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam
Authors: Ho Khanh Le Phi , Le Dinh Phung Dinh , Phuong Le Thi Hong , Beckman Malin , Sen Le Thi Hoa
Published: February 2025

Ecosystem-based Adaptation (EbA) has been recognized as the key practice to support farmers in adapting to climate change. The success of EbA requires a cohesive alignment from the national level to community implementation. However, harmonized efforts from central governments to local farmers remain underexplored in literature of climate change and adaptation, especially in the context of mountainous areas of Vietnam. This study applied multiple qualitative research tools including 12 key informant interviews, 6 focus group discussions, and 18 in-depth interviews to explore the varying perspectives of EbA between government officials and farmers, which then affect their involvements in governmental initiatives. Using matrix coding visualization in NVIVO, the study showed the differences between government officials and farmers in EbA perceptions affecting the EbA practice at communes. The study also found the factors affecting the EbA practices including knowledge, economic priorities, and institutional support, labor shortages, limited market access, and funding inadequacies. The policy implication drawn from this study is necessary for bridging top-down policy with local realities to ensure the sustainability and effectiveness of EbA. The paper then contributes to EbA literature by encouraging for context-specific adaptation strategies to enhance the effectiveness and inclusivity of EbA practice in vulnerable communities.
Differential Psychometric Validation of the Brief Scale of Social Desirability (BSSD-4) in Ecuadorian Youth
Authors: Ramírez Andrés , Burgos-Benavides Luis , Sinchi Hugo , Herrero Díez Francisco , Rodríguez-Díaz Francisco Javier
Published: February 2025

Social desirability is a widely studied phenomenon due to its impact on the validity of self-reported data. This study evaluated the psychometric properties of the Brief Social Desirability Scale (BSSD-4) in Ecuadorian youth, analyzing its reliability, factorial and convergent validity, and measurement invariance by sex, age group, and experiences of dating violence. An instrumental study was conducted with 836 participants (aged 14–26). Reliability was adequate (Ω = 0.75, α = 0.81, CR = 0.759). Confirmatory Factor Analysis showed good fit indices (CFI = 0.98, TLI = 0.97, RMSEA = 0.056, SRMR = 0.037). Convergent validity was acceptable (AVE = 0.50, VIF < 2.01). A network analysis confirmed the unidimensionality of the scale and structural differences between groups. Measurement invariance by sex and age was verified, but differences in the network structure were found based on victimization and perpetration of violence. The BSSD-4 is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing social desirability in Ecuadorian youth, useful for population studies and intergroup comparisons. Further research is recommended to explore its invariance in populations with a history of violence, as differences in scalar invariance were observed.
Effects of Joint Mobilization and Myofascial Release on Muscle Thickness in Non-Specific Low Back pain: A randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Javaid Hafiz Muhammad Waseem , Rehman Syed Shakil Ur , Kashif Muhammad , Bashir Muhammad Salman , Zia Wajeeha
Published: February 2025

Background: Non-specific low back pain is a discomfort that affects individuals at any point in their lives. The study aim was to find the effects of Myofascial Release and Joint Mobilization on muscle thickness through ultrasonography in individuals experiencing non-specific low back pain. Methods: This double-blinded randomized clinical trial was conducted on 84 participants via convenient sampling. The interventions were given among three groups; joint mobilization, myofascial release and a combination of joint mobilization and myofascial release, with a common treatment of lumbar heating for 15 minutes and trunk stabilization exercises. Data was collected on a two-week treatment regimen (Days 1, 4, 8, and 12) and a one-month follow-up. Ultrasound evaluations were used to measure the thickness of deep Lumbar muscles at rest and contraction i.e. transverse abdominis (rTrA, cTrA) and lumbar multifidus (rLM, cLM). Repeated measure ANOVA was utilized to analyze follow-ups within groups and between groups, with post-hoc tests conducted to identify specific differences. Results: Significant increases in muscle thickness were observed over time in the transverse abdominis, with improvements in both rTrA (right, p = 0.001; left, p = 0.001) and cTrA (right, p = 0.001; left, p = 0.008). The lumbar multifidus also demonstrated significant changes, with increases in rLM (right, p = 0.001; left, p = 0.047) and cLM (right, p = 0.004; left, p = 0.037). However, the group main effects showed no significant differences on muscle thickness between the groups. Conclusions: Joint mobilization demonstrated increased effectiveness in improving muscle thickness relative to myofascial release and combining both treatments for individuals with non-specific low back pain. Future studies should address the sample diversity, gender distribution, and muscle composition assessment along with demographic and lifestyle factors.
Unsupervised Dyslexia Detection via Advanced Clustering Yields 92.11% Purity
Authors: Fink Nora Alice , Fink Michael
Published: February 2025

Developmental dyslexia is one of the most common learning disorders, characterized by persistent difficulties with reading, writing, and phonological processing. While many studies have employed supervised classification models to distinguish dyslexic from control participants, the effectiveness of purely unsupervised techniques remains underexplored. This paper examines a novel, fully unsupervised clustering pipeline to separate dyslexic and control participants on the basis of multiple screening test results (cognitive, phonological, and reading-based measures). The pipeline leverages correlation-based feature selection, EllipticEnvelope outlier removal, nonlinear dimensionality reduction (UMAP), and extensive hyperparameter searches across six clustering algorithms. Applied to a dataset of 55 participants (after removing one spurious group “M” label), our approach eventually yielded two distinct clusters with an approximate purity of 92.11% when mapped back to the actual Dyslexic vs. Control labels. We interpret these findings in light of prior research on phonological deficits in dyslexia, highlighting how the emergent cluster structure suggests robust differences in phoneme awareness, reading speed, and memory spans under noise. Our approach extends prior speech-in-noise classification image (ACI) studies by focusing on large-scale, data-driven unsupervised learning, revealing distinct compensation strategies that dyslexic adults can develop. Although the final purity indicates a high alignment between clusters and clinical labels, we also emphasize the necessity of replicating these findings with broader samples and considering combined methods (e.g., semi-supervised or supervised) to confirm the stability of these results. This study adds to the growing body of evidence that advanced machine learning methods—properly optimized—can elucidate phonological deficits, test compensatory hypotheses, and potentially guide future interventions in dyslexia research.
In Vitro and In Vivo Investigations into the Potential of Quinazoline and Quinoline Derivatives as NorA Efflux Pump Inhibitors Against Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Strains
Authors: Chandal Nishtha , Sharna Nidhi , Cernicchi Giada , Felicetti Tommaso , Rondini Tommaso , Acito Mattia , Nandanwar Hemraj , Sabatini Stefano
Published: February 2025

Background: Staphylococcus aureus is a highly lethal Gram-positive bacterium that is responsible for over one million deaths annually. As a member of the ESKAPE pathogens, its methicillin-resistant strains (MRSA) are prevalent worldwide and exhibit significant antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Bacterial efflux pumps play a pivotal role in the development of AMR by facilitating the expulsion of a range of antimicrobial agents; Methods: The S. aureus strain SA-1199B, which overexpresses norA and carries a GrlA mutation, was utilized to comprehensively profile the mechanism of the compounds PQQ16P and PQK4F. To assess the toxicity and genotoxicity of these compounds, RAW macrophages, HEK 293T, and HepG2 cell lines were utilized. Female BALB/c mice were utilized to assess the in vivo synergism of EPIs with CPX; Results: NorA efflux pump inhibitors (EPIs), PQQ16P and PQK4F, enhanced the efficacy of the antibacterial ciprofloxacin (CPX) against resistant S. aureus strains. The mechanism of EPIs involved the inhibition of NorA efflux pump, without compromising bacterial membrane permeability, ATP levels, or mammalian calcium channels. Moreover, the EPIs significantly augmented the bactericidal and post-antibiotic effects of CPX, elevating its mutation prevention concentration without manifesting substantial toxicity to human cells. Furthermore, the EPIs reduced S. aureus invasiveness in macrophages, indicating a role for NorA in bacterial virulence. Notably, the in vivo synergism of these EPIs with CPX was observed in a mouse infection model; Conclusions: This study provides substantial evidence for the potential of employing EPIs in a combination with CPX to counteract AMR, both in vitro and in vivo.
Enhancement of Spectral Resolution in a Static Modulated Fourier-Transform Spectrometer with Stepped Mirrors
Authors: Cho Ju Yong , Lee Seunghoon , Jang Won Kweon
Published: February 2025

A static modulated Fourier transform spectrometer has advantages such as rapid evaluation and immunity to vibration over a dynamic modulated Fourier transform spectrometer. However, addressing the trade-off between spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio remains a challenge. In this paper, an approach to enhance both spectral resolution and signal-to-noise ratio is introduced, and its effectiveness is verified through the theoretical analysis. The spectrometer is comprised of a modified Sagnac interferometer with stepped mirrors. Enhancement is achieved by combining two different interferograms. Its detailed procedure, involving an application based on the spectral reconstruction, is outlined in this study. By combining interferograms acquired with mirror displacements of 1 mm and 5 mm, the spectral width is 128.3 cm^−1. It is 66% narrower than the spectral width at 1 mm mirror displacement and 0.3% broader than at 5mm mirror displacement. The standard deviation representing signal-to-noise ratio is 2034. It is 216% improvement compared to the 1 mm mirror displacement, and 485% improvement compared to the 5 mm mirror displacement. This approaching method also shows the potential of the static modulated Fourier transform spectrometer for applications in low signal-to-noise conditions such as Raman scattering detection and remote-sensing.
Seismicity Before and After the 2023 M7.7 and M7.5 Turkey Earthquakes
Authors: Nanjo K. Z. , Kumazawa T. , Izutsu J. , Hori T. , Nagao T. , Oike K.
Published: February 2025

A magnitude (M) 7.7 earthquake struck on February 6, 2023 in Turkey. Nine hours later, a M7.5 earthquake occurred near the initial M7.7 quake. We studied seismicity before and after these doublet quakes, integrating physics-based and statistical approaches. We first used the statistical Epidemic-Type Aftershock Sequence (ETAS) and the Bayesian Gu-tenberg-Richter b-value models to confirm previously-reported seismicity transients (seismic activation and low b-values) prior to the future M7.7 quake. We then showed that the low b-value area coincided with a high-slip area on the strand segment from which the M7.7 rupture started, a similar result to that obtained for the 2011 Tohoku megaquake case in Japan. We next used the physics-based Coulomb and statistical b-value models to find which locations of the largest and second largest events in the post-doublet-quake se-quence were in relatively high-stress regions and became closer to failure, as a result of the doublet quakes. We further used the ETAS model to show that this sequence is currently active, but is decaying with time. The duration of the sequence was estimated at 2.7-5.5 years, longer than previously proposed (1-2.5 years). Our result was stable because it was based on earthquake data in about 600 days, six times longer than the study period used in a previous study.
Effect of Low-Temperature Plasma Activated Water with Different Treatment Times on Myofibrillar Proteins of Thawed Pork
Authors: Du Manting , Hao Fangge , Sun Shunyang , Li Ke , Xiang Qisen , Li Junguang , Cao Lichuang , Bai Yanhong
Published: February 2025

In this study, myofibrillar proteins (MPs) of thawed pork were treated with plasma-activated water (PAW) for diverse durations (0, 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 s) to investigate whether the function of MPs improved by PAW and the corresponding regulatory mechanism. The results found that PAW treatments increased the surface hydrophobicity, altered secondary and tertiary structure of MPs. The α-helix content of MPs treated by PAW reduced from 37.3% to 31.25%. In PAW25s group, the oxidation of MPs significantly raised reflected by the higher carbonyl content and lower total sulfhydryl content compared to other groups (P<0.05). Furthermore, PAW treatments increased the whiteness, improved the strength, immobilized water contents, resilience, chewiness, and adhesiveness of MP gels. The observation of intermolecular forces and microstructure of MP gels presented the increase in ionic bonding, disulfide bonding, and hydrophobic interactions, but decrease in hydrogen bonding in MP gels with PAW treatments, leading to more homogeneous and denser gel structures compared to control group. In conclusion, PAW treatment for a short duration significantly fixed and enhanced the function of MPs extracted from thawed pork, and to some extent, improved the processing quality of MPs of thawed pork.
The Positive Effect of Pasteurized Akkermansia muciniphila on the Glycolipid Metabolism of Caenorhabditis elegans Induced by High Glucose Diet
Authors: Wu Zhongqin , Li Ke , Hou Ai-Xiang , Wang Yuanliang , Li Zongjun
Published: February 2025

Glycolipid metabolism is essential for maintaining metabolic homeostasis. As a new generation of probiotics, Akkermansia muciniphila is important for the regulation of immunity and metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of pasteurized Akkermansia muciniphila (P-AKK) on glycolipid metabolism in Caenorhabditis elegans fed a high glucose diet. We discovered that feeding nematodes P-AKK improved their healthy lifespan when fed a high-glucose diet. Furthermore, P-AKK contributes to reducing the accumulation of glucose and lipids and maintains a better physiological state. In addition, P-AKK improved the composition of free fatty acids and decreased the total fatty acid content of C. elegans. Transcriptome sequencing analysis revealed that P-AKK activated the β-oxidation of fatty acids while inhibiting the de novo synthesis of fatty acids to regulate glycolipid metabolism. The administration of P-AKK positively affected the body phenotypes of C. elegans under high glucose conditions. P-AKK mitigated the fat accumulation induced by a high-glucose diet by regulating key metabolic enzymes, including acyl-CoA synthetase and stearoyl-CoA desaturase.
Identifying the Best-Selling Product using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Athif Usman Syed , Bhattacharjee Mridul , Abdullah Alsukhailah Ahmed , Danial Shahzad Ali , Shabir Abdul Razick Muhammad , Amin Noor
Published: February 2025

This research covers the application of machine learning algorithms in identifying best-selling products to enhance sales forecasting among SMEs. Given the limitations of operational scales and the poor derivation of insights from sales data by SMEs, this study adopts Decision Trees, Random Forest, Naïve Bayes, and Support Vector Machines with kernel functions in analyzing and classifying sales patterns. The results clearly illustrate the fact that the SVM model is better compared to other algorithms in product classification. By incorporating data-driven decision-making, this approach enables SMEs to achieve optimal inventory management, refine their marketing strategies, and enhance their overall business efficiency. Future work will be refining these models on larger datasets and exploring hybrid approaches that can give further enhancements in predictive performance.
Resolving the Cosmological Constant Problem: Black Hole Entropy and Finite Geometry
Authors: Bolotin Arkady
Published: February 2025

The cosmological constant problem remains one of the most profound mysteries in physics. By dimensional analysis and effective field theory, Λ, the cosmological constant, is expected to be of the order m_P^2. Accordingly, the product of Λ and the Planck length squared must be nearly 1. By contrast, cosmological observations show that this product is close to the square of the ratio of the Planck length to the Hubble length l_H, meaning that Λ is of the order l_H^(-2). Thus, the cosmological constant problem can be framed as the question of how l_H gets involved in the prediction for Λ. The present paper demonstrates that such an involvement is a result of a straightforward combination of the black hole entropy bound with the assumption of a finite number of hodons, the fundamental elements of physical space.
Differential H3K4me3 Domains in Normal and Colorectal Cancer Cells Reveal Novel Epigenetic Targets
Authors: Bahia Ravinder Kaur , Lopez Camila , Nardocci Gino , Davie James R.
Published: February 2025

Histone H3 trimethylated at lysine 4 (H3K4me3) is a histone mark associated with transcriptionally active genes. H3K4me3 has two types of distribution: a sharp distribution of approximately 500 bp and a broad H3K4me3 domain that may extend 4 kb and longer through the gene body. Most transcribed genes have a narrow H3K4me3 configuration, whereas genes involved in cell identity and tumor suppression have a broad arrangement in normal cells. In cancer cells, genes that promote cancer possess a broad H3K4me3 domain. In this study, we performed H3K4me3 chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing to determine the genes with narrow and broad H3K4me3 configurations in normal colon epithelial cells and three colon cancer cell lines. The analyses revealed that genes involved in cell adhesion and nervous system development had a H3K4me3 peak next to their transcription start site in normal cells but not in colon cancer cells. Genes coding for long non-coding RNA (lncRNA) were differentially marked with a broad H3K4me3 domain in normal colon versus colon cancer cells (FENDRR in normal colon; ELFH1-AS1 in colon cancer). Identifying the genes that are silenced or activated particularly in colon cancer provides a list of actionable targets for designing effective treatments for this prevalent human disease.
Dynamic and Control of a pH-CSTR
Authors: Bendjaouhdou Chaouki
Published: February 2025

This research aims to study by numerical simulation the dynamic and the control of a pH- CSTR (Continuous Stirred Tank Reactor) process. The main characteristic of this important system is that it used to neutralize an acidic inlet liquid stream so as at the exit of the continuous stirred tank reactor (CSTR) the liquid stream has a neutral pH (pH =7). The study of the pH-CSTR is carried out in order to evidence the dynamic and the influence of disturbances on the regulation of the pH inside the reactor. The controlled variable is the pH inside and at the effluent of the reactor, and the manipulative variable is the alkali (NaOH) liquid stream. The obtained results show that the PID controller can regulate the pH in the reactor at the desired set-point value despite the occurrence of strong disturbances related to the acidic composition and flow rate of the inlet liquid stream.
Ultra-Compact Multimode Microring Resonator Based on Cubic Spline Curves
Authors: Li Zhen , Cheng Chuang , Fu Xin , Yang Lin
Published: February 2025

Microring resonators have become one of the key components for realizing signal processing, generation, and integration in microwave photonics, owing to their high Q factor, compact footprint, and tunability. However, most of the reported microring resonators are confined to the single-mode regime. In this paper, we design an ultra-compact multimode microring resonator (MMRR) based on shape-optimized multimode waveguide bends (MWBs). Cubic spline curves are used to represent the MWB boundary and the adjoint methods are utilized for inverse optimization, achieving an effective radius of 8 μm. Asymmetric directional couplers (ADCs) are designed to independently couple three modes into multimode microring, according to phase-matching conditions and transmission analysis. The MMRR is successfully fabricated on a commercial platform using 193-nm dry lithography process. The device exhibits high loaded Q factors of 2.3 × 105, 4.1 × 104 and 2.9 × 104, and large free spectral ranges (FSRs) of 5.4, 4.7 and 4.2 nm for TE0, TE1 and TE2 modes, with about 19 × 55 μm² footprint.
Predicting Pressure Profile in Polymer Extrusion Processes Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Luna-Camacho Fabian A. , Maya Juan C. , Chejne Farid , Estrada Ómar , Gómez Carlos A. , Muñoz Realpe Nicolás , Mogollón Enrique
Published: February 2025

Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs) have been successfully applied to predict various parameters in extrusion processes. However, few studies were found that have demonstrated their use in predicting the pressure profile along a single-screw extruder, and in these studies, motor current demand and melt temperature were not used as input variables. In this study, Feedforward Artificial Neural Networks (FANNs) were applied to predict the pressure profile along a single-screw extruder. The input layer variables tested included motor current demand, melt temperature, screw speed, and die restriction, while the output layer variables evaluated were four pressure measurements at different zones of the extruder. Motor current demand explained most of the data variability, accounting for 97.1% of the total variability. Five FANN architectures were tested: two considered all four input variables, two excluded the melt temperature, and the last one included only motor current demand and screw speed. The most accurate model included all four input variables, achieving a mean squared error (MSE) of 0.0078 and a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9889 with the test data. The variation between models including or excluding melt temperature was only in the fourth decimal place for R2. The FANN model proved efficient in predicting the pressure profile in single-screw extruders. These results provide valuable insights for improving extruder control systems and reducing costs associated with replacing defective sensors.
Think Inside the JSON: Reinforcement Strategy for Strict LLM Schema Adherence
Authors: Agarwal Bhavik , Joshi Ishan , Rojkova Viktoria
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we address the challenge of enforcing strict schema adherence in large language model (LLM) generation by leveraging LLM reasoning capabilities. Building on the DeepSeek R1 reinforcement learning framework, our approach trains a 1.5B-parameter model’s structured reasoning skills through a novel pipeline that combines synthetic reasoning dataset construction with custom reward functions under Group Relative Policy Optimization (GRPO). Specifically, we first perform R1 reinforcement learning on a 20K-example reasoning dataset—mirroring original DeepSeek R1 methods—to establish core reasoning abilities. Subsequently, we conduct supervised fine-tuning on a separate 10K-example dataset, focusing on refining schema adherence for downstream tasks. Despite the relatively modest training scope, requiring approximately 20 hours on an 8×H100 GPU cluster for GRPO training and 3 hours on 1xA100 for SFT, our model demonstrates robust performance in enforcing schema consistency. We compare our approach ThinkJSON against the original DeepSeek R1 (671B), distilled versions of DeepSeek R1 (Qwen-1.5B and Qwen-7B), and Gemini 2.0 Flash (70B), showcasing its effectiveness in real-world applications. Our results underscore the practical utility of a resource-efficient framework for schema-constrained text generation.
Exploring Women’s Mental Health During a Pandemic
Authors: Norton Amanda Elizabeth , Rosella Laura , Adams Matthew , Deacon Leith
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Socio-demographic inequities in mental health were magnified by COVID-19, with women experiencing greater household burden with less support in Canada and globally. While se patterns have been observed globally, there is a research gap in rural mental health during COVID-19 in Canada. We hypothesize there is a disparity in mental health decline during COVID-19 between men and women. Methods: In rural Ontario, mental health was measured through a survey of approximately 18,000 individuals living in seven counties. In 2021, survey respondents were asked to rate their mental health prior to and during COVID-19. Women reported poorer mental health during COVID-19 in comparison to men when tested via chi-squared, odds ratios, and percent change. Responses to survey questions regarding, social, financial, and mental health support were then evaluated. Findings: We found significant disparities in mental health ratings before and during COVID-19 between men and women. Women reported poorer mental health, increased substance use, and increased worry about social, financial and community stressors. Respondents who self-identified as a woman were associated with poorer mental health outcomes. Conclusions: Interventions should be specific to geographic communities as well as individual needs (e.g., additional financial and childcare support). Rural communities need to be considered as independent geographies, rather than as one geography (i.e. urban vs. rural).
Chitosan-TPP Nanogels for Foli Acid Ocular Delivery: Release Profile, Corneal Permeation, and Mucoadhesion Assessment
Authors: Bruno Sebastián G. , Martínez Sofía M. , Costa Gobbato Camila , Quinteros Daniela A. , Alaimo Agustina , Pérez Oscar E.
Published: February 2025

Folic acid (FA) is essential for cellular functions but has limited ocular bioavailability, which restricts its therapeutic effectiveness. This study developed chitosan-based nanogels (NG) as FA carriers, evaluating their mucoadhesion, drug release, and corneal permeation. Freshly prepared NGs had a hydrodynamic diameter of 312.4 ± 8.2 nm and a polydispersity index (PdI) of 0.28 ± 0.04, determined by Dynamic Light Scattering (DLS). FA encapsulation was confirmed through Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectros-copy, Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) revealed a uniform spherical morphology with minor variations in size and shape upon FA entrapment. Freeze-dried NG showed a 6.8% of size increase and PdI rise to 0.42, indicating aggregation within acceptable limits. In vitro drug release studies using a modified Franz diffusion cell demonstrated sustained FA release whose profile was fitted with Higuchi model. Mucoadhesion studies, carried out by ζ-potential measurements, revealed a decrease from +36.9 to +18.1 mV, confirming electrostatic interactions with mucin. Ex vivo corneal permeation in rabbits showed that encapsulated FA permeated 2.6 times slower than free FA, indi-cating sustained release. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate the potential of FA-loaded NG to enhance ocular drug delivery and bioavailability.
Effect of a Supervised Aerobic Exercise Training Program and Ginkgo biloba Extract on Metabolic Parameters and Functional Capacity in HIV-Infected Subjects
Authors: Soria-Rodríguez Raúl , Méndez-Magaña Javier , Torres-Castillo Nathaly , Martínez-López Erika , Jauregui-Ulloa Edtna , López-Taylor Juan Ricardo , Loera-Rodríguez Cesar de , Sigala-Arellano Ramón , Amador-Lara Fernando
Published: February 2025

Background: A remarkable increase in metabolic comorbidities occur in people living with HIV infection (PLWH). Supervised physical activity provides significant health benefits. Ginkgo biloba (GKB) extract has been reported to have a wide range of metabolic advantages. This study aimed to examine the effects of an exercise training (ET) program and a GKB extract on PLWH. Methods: This was a randomized placebo-controlled double-blind study. Twenty-eight PLWH were assigned to receive a placebo (n=10), GKB extract (n=10), or statins (n=8). All patients underwent a supervised ET program 3-5 times per week. Anthropometric measurements, functional capacity, and metabolic parameters were assessed in all participants at baseline and after 12 weeks of follow-up. Results: After the 12-week intervention, body fat decreased significantly by 2-3% in all groups relative to their baseline values (p<0.05). Total cholesterol and LDL-c were significantly decreased in the ET+statin group (p= 0.04, and p= 0.007, respectively) compared to baseline values, while HbA1c and the HOMA-IR index were significantly decreased in the ET+GKB group (p= 0.03 and p= 0.02, respectively) compared to baseline values, and a significant increase in CD4+ T cell mean was observed in the ET+placebo group (p=0.005) compared to baseline values. A significant increase in cardiorespiratory capacity (VO2 max) from their baseline values was observed in all groups (p<0.001) after 12-weeks of intervention from their baseline values. Conclusions: Body fat and cardiorespiratory fitness significantly improved after a 12-week supervised ET program. GKB extract significantly decreased insulin resistance. Future studies with larger sample sizes are required.
Model Validation Using Ready-Made Components Toward Flexible Hydraulic Joints
Authors: Arai Ryo ,   Editorial Office, Sakai Satoru
Published: February 2025

This paper discusses model validation of hydraulic joints in the presence of unknown external forces using ready-made components. First, we review hydraulic cylinder dynamics with nonlinear pressure dynamics. Second, we design a controller that applies existing methods so that hydraulic joints have high backdrivability against unknown external forces. Third, we discuss the experimental and numerical responses of hydraulic joints in the presence of unknown external forces as the model validation. No custom-made cylinders, valves, or pipes are used in our experiments. Remarkably, the experimental and numerical responses were close to each other in the presence of unknown external forces.
Development of a Robot Combining a Hyper-Extension Unit and an Earthworm-Type Robot Enhancing Propulsion and Traction
Authors: Okuma Ryusei ,   Editorial Office, Matsuo Sogo , Ito Fumio , Nakamura Taro
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a robot that combines a hyper-extension unit at the front with an earthworm-type robot at the rear, designed to inspect long, narrow, and complex pipelines. In conventional in-pipe inspection robots with simple designs, there was no mechanism for the robot to effectively exert traction and propulsion while optimizing speed according to the required force. Therefore, this paper describes the development of a robot that combines a hyper-extension unit at the front, which achieves an elongation rate of approximately 300% even at low expansion rates, with an earthworm-type robot at the rear. The developed robot can operate in two patterns: pattern 1 combines the movements of an earthworm and an inchworm, while pattern 2 resembles that of an inchworm. It can switch between speed and force modes by changing its motion pattern. Experimental comparison of the horizontal straight pipe movement speeds of pattern 1 and pattern 2 without and with load showed that pattern 2 was 3.32 times faster than pattern 1 without load and that pattern 1 was 1.51 times faster than pattern 2 with load, clarifying the importance of changing robot’s motion pattern according to the load. The vertical pipe movement speed without load was 3.04 times faster in pattern 2 than in pattern 1. The proposed robot traveled 1.43 times faster than the conventional robot equipped with a conventional spring mechanism when passing through the elbow pipe using pattern 1. However, it could not pass through the elbow pipe using pattern 2, showing the importance of changing the robot’s motion pattern when passing through bent pipes. These results indicate that the proposed robot has the potential to achieve more efficient inspection in long-distance, small-diameter, complex pipes by changing its motion pattern according to the situation in the inspection pipe.
Construction of a Mixing State Estimation System in a Peristaltic Mixing Conveyor that Imitates Intestine —Proposal of an Estimation Method to Improve Generalizability for Mixture’s Input Conditions—
Authors: Tanno Takaaki ,   Editorial Office, Terayama Iori , Adachi Ryosuke , Nishihama Rie , Nakamura Taro
Published: February 2025

A peristaltic mixing and conveyor that imitates the intestines of living organisms is used to mix powders and highly viscous fluids at low shear force in the manufacturing processes of foods, pharmaceuticals, paints, cosmetics, and other products. Although the device uses sequence control to mix and convey the contents, the actual intestine controls its motion autonomously according to the state of the contents. This research aims to establish an autonomous control method that can change between mixing and conveying according to the state of the mixture. In this paper, we propose a method to construct a learning model that is not affected by the content input conditions, in which samples with different total input amounts and mixing ratios are fed into the device, and sensor values acquired during the device operation are used as training data. The generalizability of the learning model was verified, and it was shown that mixing state estimation was possible up to 20 min from the start of mixing for mixtures with different input amounts and input order.
Two-Joint Robotic Unit Fabricated by the Robot Packaging Method
Authors: Nishiyama Hiroki ,   Editorial Office, Shibata Mizuho
Published: February 2025

A two-joint robotic unit was developed to perform various tasks using a single unit. The unit is covered with a flexible plastic film and an insulating fluid, which makes it waterproof. A flexible film may limit the range of motion of a robotic unit. The robot packaging method, which is a method of packaging the internal components of a robot using the vacuum packaging technique, is used for plastic film covering. The effects of the film and the insulating fluid were experimentally clarified. Robot fingers, fish-like robots, and crawling robots were considered as application examples of the proposed robotic unit. These examples demonstrate that the robotic unit can work in contact with objects and in water.
An Investigation Towards an Efficient Algorithm for the Automation of Stocking and Disposal Tasks in a Convenience Store Using a Robotic Arm System
Authors: Sasono Fahmi Aziz ,   Editorial Office, Wada Kazuyoshi
Published: February 2025

Robotic systems have been introduced to convenience stores to fulfill several menial tasks. One of those tasks is stocking, disposing, and arranging the product in the item rack. The general approach is to use a robotic arm to do pick-and-place tasks with the product. However, to solve this task, an appropriate algorithm is needed. In this study, we propose building an efficient algorithm for automating stocking, disposal, and arranging tasks with a robotic arm. In order to build it, a set of cost functions can be derived from the goal of stocking, disposal, and arranging processes in convenience stores. The derived cost function can then be used as a basis for creating a new algorithm that can drive the logical decisions of the system. A method to find temporary spaces within the item rack is also implemented in this algorithm. To find the most efficient form for the developed algorithm, several algorithms based on the cost function are built and tested on a simulated system of convenience store conditions. From the experiment, it is shown that, with the cost function created, using the greedy search algorithm performs the best compared to the other methods.
The geophysical survey of Mare Island Naval Cemetery, California
Authors: Martin Montana , Tooker Megan
Published: February 2025

The US Congress codified the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 (NHPA), the nation’s most effective cultural resources legislation to date, mostly through establishing the National Register of Historic Places (NRHP). The NHPA requires federal agencies to address their cultural resources, which are defined as any prehistoric or historic district, site, building, structure, or object. Section 110 of the NHPA requires federal agencies to inventory and evaluate their cultural resources, and Section 106 requires them to determine the effect of federal undertakings on those potentially eligible for the NRHP. This project was undertaken to provide the US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), National Cemetery Administration (NCA), with a geophysical survey of Mare Island Naval Cemetery. The approximately 2.5-acre cemetery is located in Vallejo, California, and contains more than 900 burials. Mare Island Naval Cemetery is part of the Mare Island Naval Shipyard Historic District, which was listed concurrently on the National Register of Historic Places and as a national historic landmark in 1975.
Autonomous cyberdefense introduces risk : can we manage the risk?
Authors: Ligo Alexandre , Kott Alexander , Linkov Igor
Published: February 2025

We discuss the human role in the design and control of cyberdefenses. We focus on machine learning training and algorithmic feedback and constraints, with the aim of motivating a discussion on achieving trust in autonomous cyberdefenses.
SOX9 regulation of Hexokinase 1 controls neuroinflammatory astrocyte subtypes in neuropathic pain
Authors: Liu Jessica Aijia , CHEN Yonglong , LIAO Yu , WU Zhaoming , WAN Yutong , CAI Haoyang , FENG Xianglan , FAN Chaoyang , ZHAN Dengcheng , ZHU Huazhang , Cheung Martin , CHEUNG Chiwai
Published: February 2025

Neuropathic pain (NeP) results from nerve damage or disease, lacking effective treatments. Astrocytes contribute to long-lasting neuroinflammation in the dorsal horn, driving NeP development. Directly targeting astrocytes is not feasible due to their roles in supporting neuronal homeostasis and pain resolution. Despite this understanding, the heterogeneity of astrocytes and the regulation of deleterious subsets emergence in pain remain less known. Through a comprehensive approach involving metabolomic, single-cell transcriptomic, epigenomic profiling and regional astrocyte-specific perturbation studies, we identified distinct astrocyte clusters under physiological and pathological pain conditions, and elucidated mechanisms by which metabolic regulation of neuroinflammatory astrocyte subsets during pain pathogenesis. We found an astrocyte specifier, Sox9, transcriptionally regulates Hexokinase1 (HK1), a critical enzyme that catalyzes the first step in glucose metabolism irreversibly, contributing to astrocytic glycolysis homeostasis. Initial nerve damage induced abnormal phosphorylation of Sox9, triggering aberrantly activation of HK1 for high-rate glycolysis in astrocytes. Moreover, the excessive lactate production from heightened glycolysis remodeled histones of gene promoters via lactylation, H3K9la, promoting transcriptional modules of genes governing pro-inflammatory and neurotoxic signaling, which induced pathogenic astrocyte properties while reducing beneficial populations, ultimately causing persistent pain state. Importantly, we demonstrate that targeted modulation of the SOX9-HK1-H3K9la axis specifically dampens deleterious astrocyte subsets, promoting long-lasting recovery of NeP. Collectively, our findings unveil a novel immunometabolic mechanism and identify multiple potential targets for effective therapeutic interventions in the treatment of NeP.
Hidden structural states of proteins revealed by conformer selection with AlphaFold-NMR
Authors: Montelione Gaetano , Huang Yuanpeng , Ramelot Theresa , Spaman Laura , Kobayashi Naohiro
Published: February 2025

We introduce AlphaFold-NMR, a novel approach to NMR structure determination that reveals previously undetected protein conformational states. Unlike conventional NMR methods which rely on NOE-derived spatial restraints, AlphaFold-NMR combines AI-driven conformational sampling with Bayesian scoring of realistic protein models against NOESY and chemical shift data. This method uncovers alternative conformational states of the enzyme Gaussia luciferase, involving large-scale changes in the lid, binding pockets, and other surface cavities. It also identifies similar yet distinct conformational states of the human tumor suppressor Cyclin-Dependent Kinase 2-Associated Protein 1. These studies demonstrate the potential of AI-based modeling with enhanced sampling to generate diverse structural models, followed by conformer selection and validation with experimental data, as an alternative to traditional restraint-satisfaction protocols for protein NMR structure determination. The AlphaFold-NMR framework enables discovery of conformational heterogeneity and cryptic pockets that conventional NMR analysis methods do not distinguish, providing new insights into protein structure-function relationships.
Classification of agroforestry systems by photo-interpretation of satellite imagery
Authors: Tahiri Ouadya , Beillouin Damien , Dumas Patrice , Prudhomme Rémi , Makowski David
Published: February 2025

Effective and large-scale monitoring of agroforestry (AF) systems is essential to assess the environmental benefits of agroforestry and support sustainable land management strategies. However, a standardized method for classifying these systems using satellite imagery is still missing. Here, we present a novel operational framework to classify agroforestry systems into three categories—Alley cropping, Scattered agroforestry, and Hedgerows—and to distinguish these systems from Cropland without trees, Natural trees, and Orchards. The proposed procedure relies on a classification tree based on photo-interpretation of satellite imagery. The accuracy and robustness of this classification tree were evaluated by five interpreters across 300 agroforestry and non-agroforestry plots spanning all continents. Results show that the classification tree accurately distinguishes agroforestry categories from one another and from non-agroforestry systems, with an overall accuracy ranging from 0.75 to 0.81 depending on the interpreter. After eliminating the interpreters’ errors, the potential classification accuracy increases to 0.86. While hedgerows were accurately classified in most cases with an omission error of 2% and no commission error (0%), the study revealed challenges in differentiating between Alley cropping and Orchards which were frequently confounded. Similarly, plots with Scattered agroforestry were also misclassified as Natural trees leading to a commission error of 19% for this class. Despite these limitations, the proposed classification tree represents a valuable tool for large-scale monitoring of agroforestry systems. Future adaptations of this framework could address regional specificities, further improving its applicability and accuracy.
Structural and Computational Insights into New Nano-sized Cu(II) Metal- Organic Coordination Particles: Synthesis, Crystal Analysis, and Hirshfeld Surface Analysis
Authors: rajabzadeh Halimeh
Published: February 2025

The synthesis of novel nano-structures of a Cu(II) metal-organic coordination complex (MOC), referred to as [Cu2(ox)(phen)2(H2O)2](NO3)2{1}, where ox =C2O4-2 (oxalate) and phen= C12H8N2 (1,10-Phenanthroline), was accomplished using two distinct experimental approaches: solvothermal as well as sonochemical techniques. Notably, both methods resulted in the formation of an identical crystalline structure. A range of characterization techniques, including Powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR), were utilized to analyze the compounds. The complex is characterized by single-crystal X-ray diffraction (SCXRD) which is shown Cu atoms (Cu2+) that are 5-coordinated. The effects of various parameters, including sonication time and temperature, were examined for the final morphology of the compounds produced by the sonochemical method. Ultimately, a Hirshfeld Surface Analysis (HSA) was conducted on the 1. Analyzing geometric and electronic using DFT/PBE/6-311++G*/lanl2dz level of theory shows that the Cu(II) structure with the high chemical softness (2.03eV) has a high tendency for interacting with the protein of prostate cancer, Eint=-16.7 kJ mol-1; this interaction involves electrostatic, hydrogen, and steric.