bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of metabolic score for insulin resistance with incident metabolic syndrome: a cohort study in middle-aged and older adult Chinese population
Authors: Zhang Qiuling , Wei Yushuang , Huang Shengzhu , Mo YeMei , Yan Boteng , Jin Xihui , Xu Mingjie , Mai Xiaoyou , Tang Chaoyan , Lan Haiyun , Liu Rongrong , Li Mingli , Mo Zengnan , Xie Wenchao
Published: February 2025

Background

Recent studies suggest that the metabolic score for insulin resistance (MetS-IR) is an effective indicator of metabolic disorders. However, evidence on the relationship between MetS-IR and metabolic syndrome (MetS) among the Chinese middle-aged and older adult population is limited.

Objective

This cohort study aims to assess the associations of MetS-IR levels with MetS risk and its components.

Methods

Data used in this study from the National Basic Public Health Service Project Management System (2020–2023). Multivariable Cox proportional hazards model and restricted cubic spline (RCS) were employed to evaluate the associations of baseline MetS-IR levels with MetS risk and its components, receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were further utilized to assess the efficacy of MetS-IR in predicting the risk of MetS and its component.

Results

Of 1,498 subjects without MetS at baseline, 392 incident MetS cases were observed during a median of 27.70 months of follow-up. The adjusted multivariable Cox regression analysis indicated an elevated 15% risk of developing MetS for 1-SD increment of MetS-IR [hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals: 1.16 (1.13–1.18)]. Compared to the first tertile of MetS-IR, the HRs of the third tertile and second tertile were 6.31 (95% CI 4.55–8.76) and 2.72 (95% CI 1.92–3.85), respectively. Consistent findings were further detected across subgroups. Moreover, nonlinear associations were observed between MetS-IR and the risk of MetS, abdominal obesity, and reduced high-density lipoprotein concentration (HDL-C) (Pnonlinear < 0.01), with the cutoff of MetS-IR was 32.89. The area under the curve for MetS-IR in predicting MetS was 0.740 (95% CI 0.713–0.768), which was better than those of other indicators.

Conclusion

Our cohort study indicates a positive nonlinear association between MetS-IR with incident MetS, abdominal obesity, and reduced HDL-C, but positive linear associations of MetS-IR and elevated blood pressure (BP), elevated fasting blood glucose (FBG), elevated triglycerides (TG) in middle-aged and older adult people, more studies are warranted to verify our findings.
Gender-neutral vs. gender-specific strategies in school-based HPV vaccination programs: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chandeying Nutthaporn , Khantee Puttichart , Puetpaiboon Sirada , Thongseiratch Therdpong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated whether gender-neutral (GN) or gender-specific (GS) strategies more effectively enhanced knowledge, intention, and uptake of HPV vaccination among students in educational settings.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library identified 17 randomized controlled trials encompassing 22,435 participants (14,665 females, 7,770 males). Random-effects models were used to calculate standardized mean differences (SMDs) for knowledge and intention, and risk differences for vaccination uptake.

Results

GN strategies achieved higher improvements in knowledge (SMD = 0.95) and intention (SMD = 0.59) compared with GS (SMD = 0.68 for knowledge, SMD = 0.14 for intention), and displayed a greater increase in uptake (5.7% versus 2.5% in GS), although this uptake difference was not statistically significant. Heterogeneity was more pronounced for knowledge outcomes and moderate for GS uptake results.

Discussion

Despite GN approaches seemingly offering more robust enhancements in HPV-related knowledge and vaccination intention, additional research with robust designs and longer follow-up is required to determine whether GN interventions definitively outperform GS strategies in achieving statistically significant increases in actual vaccination uptake.
Participation in and use of skills development for work ability and expected retirement age: a cross-sectional study among senior workers
Authors: Seeberg Karina Glies Vincents , Skovlund Sebastian Venge , Sundstrup Emil , Mortensen Ole Steen , Andersen Lars Louis
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Europe’s aging population calls for ways to prolong working life. Skills development initiatives could potentially improve work ability and extend working lives and may thus be key to address this challenge. However, the role of skills development in relation to work ability and retirement age is still not fully understood.

Aim

This study aims to investigate the association of skills development with work ability and expected retirement age among senior workers.

Methods

In 2022, all State employees in Denmark aged 55 years or above (n = 53,673) received a web-based questionnaire, of which 42% were included in the analyses (n = 22,544). The questionnaire included questions about participation in skills development initiatives over the past 2 years, lifestyle and work environment, including work ability and expected retirement age. We employed Generalized Linear Models (GLMs), weighted for Union, sex and age, with multivariate adjustment to examine associations of participation in (1) courses, (2) formal education, and (3) other forms of skills development on work ability and expected retirement age.

Results

Formal education showed associations with expected retirement age with a between-group difference of 0.68 years Confidence Interval (CI) (0.54 to 0.82). Conversely, other forms of skills development (peer-to-peer training or self-study) were most positively associated with work ability in specific models with a between-group difference of 0.20 years CI (0.16 to 0.24).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that participation in skills development is positively associated with work ability and expected retirement age. These findings underscore the need for targeted skills development programs, which may enhance workforce sustainability and help workers prolong their working life.
Unveiling host-genetic drivers of caecal microbial communities in chickens through genome-wide association studies
Authors: Hinsu Ankit , Dai Xiaoxia , Dadousis Christos , Hay Melanie , Fosso Bruno , Crotta Matteo , Pandit Ramesh , Guitian Javier , Tomley Fiona , Koringa Prakash , Joshi Chaitanya , Blake Damer , Psifidi Androniki
Published: February 2025

Enteric microbiota plays a crucial role in the health and productivity of poultry, including influences on nutrient absorption, immune function, and pathogen resistance. In this study, we conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) to identify host genetic variants associated with selected bacterial genera found in chickens. We used high-density 600K SNP Affymetrix DNA arrays for genotyping, alongside 16S rRNA gene sequencing to profile caecal microbiota from the same individual chickens. A commercial broiler line (Cobb400, n = 300) and an indigenous (Kadaknath, n = 300) chicken breed from India were investigated, allowing for a comprehensive cross-ecotype analysis. Our analysis identified several host-genetic markers and candidate genes associated with the presence and abundance of specific bacterial genera with known pathogenic or commensal roles, and with specific caecal Enterotypes. Whole-genome sequencing data were then used to further investigate candidate regions around significantly associated variants from the high-density DNA array. Of note, we found markers nearby the genes coding for classical complement activation component C1q, ephrin receptors, and other immunity and inflammatory responses as well as genes coding for products associated with vitamin and co-factor metabolism. The results underscore the impact that host genetics has on the regulation of the gut microbiota and highlights potential pathways through which host genetic variation influences host-bacterial crosstalk and potentially modulates microbial community structure. These findings contribute to the growing understanding of the genetic basis of host-microbiota interactions and offer new avenues for improving poultry health and productivity through selective breeding strategies targeting the microbiome.
From traditional robotic deployments towards assisted robotic deployments in nuclear decommissioning
Authors: Lopez Pulgarin Erwin Jose , Hopper Dave , Montgomerie Jon , Kell James , Carrasco Joaquin , Herrmann Guido , Lanzon Alexander , Lennox Barry
Published: February 2025

The history around teleoperation and deployment of robotic systems in constrained and dangerous environments such as nuclear is a long and successful one. From the 1940s, robotic manipulators have been used to manipulate dangerous substances and enable work in environments either too dangerous or impossible to be operated by human operators. Through the decades, technical and scientific advances have improved the capabilities of these devices, whilst allowing for more tasks to be performed. In the case of nuclear decommissioning, using such devices for remote inspection and remote handling has become the only solution to work and survey some areas. Such applications deal with challenging environments due to space constrains, lack of up-to-date structural knowledge of the environment and poor visibility, requiring much training and planning to succeed. There is a growing need to speed these deployment processes and to increase the number of decommissioning activities whilst maintaining high levels of safety and performance. Considering the large number of research and innovation being done around improving robotic capabilities, numerous potential benefits could be made by translating them to the nuclear decommissioning use cases. We believe such innovations, in particular improved feedback mechanisms from the environment during training and deployments (i.e., Haptic Digital Twins) and higher modes of assisted or supervised control (i.e., Semi-autonomous operation) can play a large role. We list some of the best practices currently being followed in the industry around teleoperation and robotic deployments and the potential benefits of implementing the aforementioned innovations.
Toward green tourism: the role of renewable energy for sustainable development in developing nations
Authors: Guo Yang , Chai Yi
Published: February 2025

Sustainable tourism (TOR) practices are essential for balancing economic growth and environmental conservation, enabling economies to protect natural resources while fostering socio-economic development. In the BIMSTEC region, where tourism is a significant economic driver, understanding the interplay between tourism and renewable energy (RE) is critical for achieving sustainable development. This study examines the influence of TOR and RE on environmental quality, measured through the load capacity factor (LCF), in BIMSTEC countries. It also explores the interaction between TOR and RE to evaluate their combined impact on environmental sustainability. Using panel data from 2000 to 2022, the study employs advanced econometric techniques, including the cross-sectional autoregressive distributed lag (CS-ARDL) and augmented mean group (AMG) methodologies, to assess long-term relationships and robustness. Wavelet coherence analysis further examines time-frequency correlations between TOR and environmental quality. The results reveal that while TOR alone negatively impacts environmental quality, RE significantly enhances it, with a 1% increase in RE leading to a 0.04% improvement in LCF. The interaction term TOR*RE demonstrates a positive synergy, mitigating the adverse effects of tourism on the environment. The wavelet analysis highlights an inverse relationship between TOR and environmental quality over time, reinforcing the need for sustainable practices in the tourism sector. The findings emphasize the importance of integrating renewable energy into tourism policies to reduce air pollution and climate change impacts. Policymakers in BIMSTEC countries should focus on financial development and establishing sustainable tourism-related industries to address socio-economic and environmental challenges. This study provides actionable insights to promote environmentally sustainable tourism while supporting economic growth in the BIMSTEC region.
Rapid prediction of Porphyra photosynthetic pigments based on colorimetric parameters
Authors: Chen Xiaochen , Yang Biyun , Du Xiping , Li Qingyan , Li Zhipeng , Yang Yuanfan , Jiang Zedong , Zhu Yanbing , Ni Hui , Miao Xiongping
Published: February 2025

Photosynthetic pigments such as phycobiliproteins and chlorophyll a are important quality indicators of seaweeds. In this study, multivariate nonlinear regression (MNLR) models were developed and validated for the rapid determination of photosynthetic pigments in Porphyra haitanensis based on colorimetric parameters (L*, a*, b*). The contents of phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, allophycocyanin and chlorophyll a in P. haitanensis were within 1.499–8.882 mg/g, 1.402–7.634 mg/g, 0.315–1.623 mg/g, and 0.340–2.160 mg/g, respectively. The L*, a*, and b* values were within 13.47–32.97, −1.88 to 2.74, and 0.23–4.61, respectively. This study indicated that the pigment contents of P. haitanensis, especially phycoerythrin and phycocyanin, could be effectively predicted based on color parameters with R2 of 0.901 and 0.701, respectively. The MNLR model also showed that the relative errors of phycoerythrin and phycocyanin content prediction were less than 10 and 20%, respectively. However, the prediction of allophycocyanin and chlorophyll a proved to be more challenging and the model showed limited predictive power. This discovery may make it easier to employ non-destructive techniques to evaluate the phycoerythrin and phycocyanin content of P. haitanensis and other seaweeds, which is important for the expanding Porphyra industry as it may enable a rapid assessment of Porphyra quality. This finding demonstrates the potential of visual analysis for quality assessment of Porphyra, as well as the convenience and non-destructive nature of the method. Future research should focus on improving the model and developing accurate and rapid quality control methods for the industrialization and scientific application of Porphyra.
Torque/Speed Equilibrium Point Monitoring of an Aircraft Hybrid Electric Propulsion System Through Accelerometric Signal Processing
Authors: Niola Vincenzo , Cosenza Chiara , Fornaro Enrico , Malfi Pierangelo , Melluso Francesco , Nicolella Armando , Savino Sergio , Spirto Mario
Published: February 2025

The present work proposes a new torque/speed equilibrium point monitoring technique for an aircraft Hybrid Electric Propulsion System (HEPS) through an accelerometric-signal-based approach. Sampled signals were processed using statistical indexes, filtering, and a feature reduction and selection algorithm to train a classification Feedforward Neural Network. A supervised Machine Learning model was developed to classify the HEPS operating modes characterized by an Internal Combustion Engine as a single propulsor or by combining the latter with an Electric Machine used as a motor or a generator. The abnormal changes in the torque/speed equilibrium point were detected by the monitoring index built by computing the Root Mean Square on the value identified by the classifier. The procedure was validated through experimental tests that demonstrated its validity.
Masonry and Pictorial Surfaces Study by Laser Diagnostics: The Case of the Diana’s House in Ostia Antica
Authors: Spizzichino Valeria , Caneve Luisa , Docci Antonella , Francucci Massimo , Guarneri Massimiliano , Tarica Daniela , Tempesta Claudia
Published: February 2025

The aim of the present research is to validate the combined use, through data fusion, of a Laser Induced Fluorescence (LIF) scanning system and a radar scanner (RGB-ITR, Red Green Blue Imaging Topological Radar system), as a unique tool to address the need for non-invasive, rapid, and low-cost techniques for both diagnostic and operational needs. The integrated system has been applied to the House of Diana complex in Ostia Antica. The main diagnostic objective of this research was to trace the materials used in different phases of restoration, from antiquity to modernity, on both masonry and pictorial surfaces, to reconstruct the history of the building. Due to the significant interest in this insula, other studies have been recently carried out on the House of Diana, but they once again highlighted the necessity of multiple approaches and non-invasive methods capable of providing quasi-real-time answers, delivering point-by-point information on very large surfaces to overcome the limits related to representativeness of sampling. The data acquired by the RGB-ITR system are quantitative, allowing for morphological and 3-colour analysis of the investigated artwork. In this work, the sensor has been used to create coloured 3D models useful for structural assessments and for locating different classes of materials. In fact, the LIF maps, which integrate knowledge about the original constituent materials and previous conservation interventions, have been used as additional layers of the tridimensional models. Therefore, the method can direct possible new investigations and restoration actions, piecing together the history of the House of Diana to build for it a safer future.
Terrestrial Storage of Biomass (Biomass Burial): A Natural, Carbon-Efficient, and Low-Cost Method for Removing CO2 from Air
Authors: Amelse Jeffrey A.
Published: February 2025

Terrestrial Storage of Biomass (TSB) is a Negative Emission Technology for removing CO2 already in the atmosphere. TSB is compared to other NETs and is shown to be a natural, carbon-efficient, and low-cost option. Nature performs the work of removal by growing biomass via photosynthesis. The key to permanent sequestration is to bury the biomass in pits designed to minimize the decomposition. The chemistry of biomass formation and decomposition is reviewed to provide best practices for the TSB burial pit design. Methane formation from even a small amount of decomposition has been raised as a concern. This concern is shown to be unfounded due to a great difference in time constants for methane formation and its removal from the air by ozone oxidation. Methane has a short lifetime in air of only about 12 years. Woody biomass decomposition undergoes exponential decay spread over hundreds to thousands of years. It is inherently slow due to the cross-linking and dense packing of cellulose, which means that the attack can only occur at the surface. A model that couples the slow and exponential decay of the rate of methane formation with the fast removal by oxidation shows that methane will peak at a very small fraction of the buried biomass carbon within about 10 years and then rapidly decline towards zero. The implication is that no additional equipment needs to be added to TSB to collect and burn the methane. Certified carbon credits are listed on various exchanges. The US DOE has recently issued grants for TSB development.
Engineering Hierarchical Porous Electrodes Integrated with Conformal Ultrathin Nanosheets for Achieving Rapid Kinetics in High-Power Microbatteries
Authors: Chen Xin , Gong Minjian , Li Jiantao , Yang Wei , Xu Xu
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of the Internet of Things (IoT), there is an increasing demand for batteries with high energy and power densities. Three-dimensional microstructures present a promising approach for achieving high areal mass loading and an expanded electrochemical reaction surface. However, their high cost and complexity have hindered their widespread adoption. In this study, hierarchical porous electrodes integrated with conformal ultrathin nanosheets were fabricated to enhance reaction kinetics. The hierarchical porous skeleton provides a continuous pathway for electron transport and electrolyte diffusion, while the amorphous vanadium oxide (α-VOx) nanosheets offer short ion diffusion channels and a large electrochemical surface area. Additionally, the internal space of the hierarchical structure accommodates substantial growth of the α-VOx nanosheets, thereby supporting high mass loading and preserving areal capacity. The resulting hierarchical electrode structure demonstrates a high energy density of 0.49 mAh cm−2 at 1 mA cm−2 and an ultrahigh power density of 410 mW cm−2 at 250 mA cm−2. The assembled microbattery, using lithium metal as the anode, is encapsulated with a novel packaging process. This microbattery can power an electronic clock for up to 18 h on a single charge, retaining 75% of its initial capacity after 180 cycles.
Sodium-Dependent Conformational Change in Flagellar Stator Protein MotS from Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Takekawa Norihiro , Yamaguchi Ayaka , Nishiuchi Koki , Uehori Maria , Kinoshita Miki , Minamino Tohru , Imada Katsumi
Published: February 2025

The bacterial flagellar motor consists of a rotor and stator units and is driven by ion flow through the stator. The activation of the ion flow is coupled with the anchoring of the stator units to the peptidoglycan layer by the stator B-subunit around the rotor. Gram-negative bacteria, such as Salmonella and Vibrio, change the conformation of the N-terminal helix of the periplasmic domain of the B-subunit to anchor the stator units. However, a recent high-speed atomic force microscopic study has suggested that the periplasmic domain of MotS, the stator B-subunit of the sodium (Na+)-driven stator of Bacillus subtilis, a gram-positive bacterium, unfolds at low external Na+ concentrations and folds at high Na+ concentrations to anchor the stator units. Here, we report the crystal structures of MotS68–242, a periplasmic fragment of MotS, from B. subtilis at high and low Na+ concentrations. We also performed far-UV CD spectroscopic analysis of the wild-type MotS68–242 and MotS78–242 proteins and mutant variants of MotS68–242 under high and low Na+ concentrations and found that the N-terminal disordered region of MotS68–242 shows a Na+-dependent coil–helix transition. We propose a mechanism of the Na+-dependent structural transition of Bs-MotS to anchor the stator units.
Post-COVID-19 Condition Prediction in Hospitalised Cancer Patients: A Machine Learning-Based Approach
Authors: Mahvash Mohammadi Sara , Rumyantsev Mikhail , Abdeeva Elina , Baimukhambetova Dina , Bobkova Polina , El-Taravi Yasmin , Pikuza Maria , Trefilova Anastasia , Zolotarev Aleksandr , Andreeva Margarita , Iakovleva Ekaterina , Bulanov Nikolay , Avdeev Sergey , Pazukhina Ekaterina , Zaikin Alexey , Kapustina Valentina , Fomin Victor , Svistunov Andrey A. , Timashev Peter , Avdeenko Nina , Ivanova Yulia , Fedorova Lyudmila , Kondrikova Elena , Turina Irina , Glybochko Petr , Butnaru Denis , Blyuss Oleg , Munblit Daniel ,   Sechenov StopCOVID Research Team
Published: February 2025

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has led to widespread long-term complications, known as post-COVID conditions (PCC), particularly affecting vulnerable populations such as cancer patients. This study aims to predict the incidence of PCC in hospitalised cancer patients using the data from a longitudinal cohort study conducted in four major university hospitals in Moscow, Russia. Methods: Clinical data have been collected during the acute phase and follow-ups at 6 and 12 months post-discharge. A total of 49 clinical features were evaluated, and machine learning classifiers including logistic regression, random forest, support vector machine (SVM), k-nearest neighbours (KNN), and neural network were applied to predict PCC. Results: Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), sensitivity, and specificity. KNN demonstrated the highest predictive performance, with an AUC of 0.80, sensitivity of 0.73, and specificity of 0.69. Severe COVID-19 and pre-existing comorbidities were significant predictors of PCC. Conclusions: Machine learning models, particularly KNN, showed some promise in predicting PCC in cancer patients, offering the potential for early intervention and personalised care. These findings emphasise the importance of long-term monitoring for cancer patients recovering from COVID-19 to mitigate PCC impact.
Paediatric Major Trauma Psychology Service Evaluation: An Early Review of an Integrated Model of Care
Authors: Bundy Rebecca , Taktak Jade , Berger Zoe , Nowotny Ewa , Albert Idit
Published: February 2025

Background: Major trauma is a leading cause of death and disability in children and young people (CYP) in the United Kingdom (UK). Since 2012, major trauma centres (MTCs) have been created with specialist expertise to treat patients suffering with lifechanging injuries. Much research has focused on the physical recovery of patients; however, the psychological and psychosocial impacts of major trauma are significant and often neglected/deprioritised. Less is known about this area in relation to a paediatric population. Methods: This service evaluation reports on the first year of an integrated psychological pathway within a London paediatric MTC. The proactive approach involves inpatient and outpatient psychological support, screening children and families for trauma symptoms and emotional distress, offering psychological intervention where required, and liaison with community mental health teams, social care services and third sector organisations. Descriptive statistics are reported on the patient demographics and mechanism of injury, as well as screening scores at 6 weeks and 3 months following the traumatic incident. Patient feedback is also presented. Results: The results demonstrate a significant increase in the numbers of children and families offered psychological support following the creation of the pathway and an overwhelmingly positive response from service users. Conclusions: Clinical implications are outlined, and areas for further development are discussed.
The Effect of Substrate Roughness and Impact Angle on Droplet Spreading in Spraying
Authors: Ma Li’e , Ma Yijun , Yu Kanghui , Xu Hongli , Hao Jiaqi , Li Yuan , Wang Kaiyu , Sun Dongyue
Published: February 2025

The effects of substrate roughness and impact angle on the spreading behavior of Polyvinylidene Fluoride (PVDF) slurry droplets during the spraying process using a dispersing disk are investigated, aiming to enhance the quality of lithium-ion battery separators. In this study, through theoretical modeling and simulation analysis, mathematical expressions for the maximum spreading coefficient and the final shrinking coefficient of the droplets are derived. A simulation model for droplet impact and diffusion on the substrate surface is established based on the Lattice Boltzmann Method (LBM) and the Lagrangian function. Simulation results indicate that the maximum spreading coefficient of the droplet decreases with increasing substrate roughness and impact angle, while the final shrinking coefficient increases with substrate roughness but decreases as the impact angle increases. Finally, spray coating experiments for lithium-ion battery separators are conducted, and the results show that as the surface roughness and impact angle of the substrate increase, the average diameter of the droplets decreases, thereby validating the accuracy of the simulation results.
Necrotizing Fasciitis of the Forearm in a 20-Week Pregnant Woman: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Mironică Andreea , Ioncioaia Bogdan , Janko Botond , Dindelegan George Călin , Ilie-Ene Alexandru , Furcovici Lucia-Ioana , Sarkadi Balazs , Filip Claudiu Ioan
Published: February 2025

Background and Clinical Significance: Necrotizing fasciitis (NF) is a rare skin and soft tissue infection that progresses rapidly to necrosis and can be life-threatening. The incidence varies by geographic region but is generally low, with a mortality rate ranging between 11 and 22%. Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial for survival, particularly in patients with underlying conditions such as immune suppression, diabetes, obesity, trauma, recent surgical procedures, or renal pathology. However, the relationship between pregnancy and NF has not been extensively studied. Case Presentation: The case presented involves a 37-year-old, 20-week pregnant woman, who presented to the emergency department with septic shock and left forearm compartment syndrome. She reported no recent trauma or obvious source of contamination. The patient was immediately admitted and taken to the operating room. During admission, she underwent three surgeries, consisting of staged debridement, fasciectomy, and vacuum therapy and skin grafting. The patient was carefully monitored in the intensive care unit and multiple obstetrical consultations were performed to monitor the fetus. The patient was discharged with a fully integrated graft and with the donor area undergoing epithelialization. Conclusions: This case highlights the importance of early diagnosis and treatment of NF, particularly in high-risk patients, and the need for further research into the relationship between pregnancy and NF.
Effects of Accentuated Eccentric and Maximal Strength High-Resistance Training Programs with or Without a Curcumin-Based Formulation Supplement on Body Composition, Blood Pressure, and Metabolic Parameters in Older Adults
Authors: Juesas Alvaro , Saez-Berlanga Angel , Babiloni-Lopez Carlos , Martin Ezequiel G. , Garrigues-Pelufo Luis , Ferri-Caruana Ana , Gene-Morales Javier , Martin-Rivera Fernando , Chulvi-Medrano Iván , Jiménez-Martínez Pablo , Alix-Fages Carlos , Cwiklinska Magdalena , Gallo Veronica , Zarza Virginia , Gargallo Pedro , Fernandez-Garrido Julio , Caballero Oscar , Casaña Jose , Moretti Elisa , Grazioli Elisa , Navarra Giovanni Angelo , Bellafiore Marianna , Janicijevic Danica , Hammami Raouf , Colado Juan C.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This study compared the effects of high-resistance training (RT) programs, with or without curcumin supplementation, on variables commonly associated with metabolic syndrome (MetS), including body composition, blood pressure, and metabolic parameters. Methods: Eighty-one older adults at risk of MetS (BMI > 25 kg/m2, fat mass > 32%, and systolic blood pressure > 130 mmHg in half of the participants) were randomly assigned to six groups, which were comprised as follows: four experimental groups involving either accentuated eccentric or maximal strength RT with curcumin or placebo and two control groups receiving either curcumin or placebo. Experimental groups completed a 16-week full-body RT with elastic bands, while controls did not exercise. Results: The results showed that (I) all experimental protocols significantly reduced fat mass (p ≤ 0.001), with the maximal strength RT group supplemented with curcumin (Max-Cur) showing the greatest reduction, at 14.3%; (II) muscle gains were significant and comparable across experimental groups (p ≤ 0.008); (III) both systolic and diastolic blood pressure decreased similarly across experimental groups (p ≤ 0.001); (IV) metabolic parameters significantly improved across experimental groups (p ≤ 0.037), except for creatinine, which showed an undesirable peak only in the Max-Cur group; (V) curcumin supplementation enhanced the effects of both RT programs; and (VI) between 54% and 100% of participants achieved clinically meaningful improvements in seven out of ten MetS-related variables across experimental groups. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that high-RT programs combined with curcumin supplementation positively impacted all MetS-related variables. The Max-Cur RT group stood out as the most beneficial, with the greatest fat mass reductions, highlighting this approach as a promising strategy to reduce the risk of MetS in older adults.
Genetic Algorithm-Based Acoustic Array Optimization for Estimating UAV DOA Using Beamforming
Authors: Itare Nathan , Thomas Jean-Hugh , Raoof Kosai
Published: February 2025

The localization of unmanned aerial vehicles is an important topic due to several threats near sensitive sites. Localization based on their sounds has been a particular point of interest in past studies for many years. It requires the use of a microphone array. The positioning of the various microphones making up an antenna defines the intrinsic directivity of the array. In this study, a genetic algorithm is used to determine the microphone positions that optimize directivity in a focus direction and for a frequency, by favoring the narrowness of the main lobe and the reduction of the secondary lobes. The optimization leads to several antennas with a 3D structure similar to that designed in a previous study. A method estimating the direction of arrival of a drone was also presented in that study making use of its acoustic signature to enhance the signal-to-noise ratio and thus improving the estimations. In this paper, an improvement to the method is proposed for tracking the drone’s trajectory. Measurements were conducted to compare the drone locations given by the first designed antenna and the one optimized by the genetic algorithm. Performance on the direction of arrival found is characterized in terms of mean error, standard deviation and root mean square error relative to the GPS reference onboard the UAV. An experiment with the optimized antenna has also been conducted with the drone at a great distance to the antenna to characterize the maximal distance for possible estimations of the direction of arrival. Results show that the method used for the direction of arrival estimation can give a mean error below 10° in azimuth and 5° in elevation. The maximum distance between the antenna and the drone for which the method is able to give estimations is between 240 and 340 m.
Understanding Young Adolescent Identity and Experiences Through Internal Dimensions: A Scoping Review
Authors: Martin Dezeré J. , Pettit Stacie K. , Stacki Sandra L. , Smith Kristie W. , Caskey Micki M.
Published: February 2025

The purpose of this study was to explore multiple facets of young adolescent identity and related experiences through a scoping literature review. Based on Gardenswartz and Rowe’s Four Layers of Diversity Model, we specifically examined extant literature around five of the internal dimensions: gender, sexuality, race, ethnicity, and physical ability. Two overarching research questions guided this investigation: What is the range and nature of current findings on young adolescent identity and experience? What gaps exist in research on young adolescent identity and experiences? To address these research questions, our research group conducted a scoping literature review using predetermined search strings related to young adolescents, identity, and experiences. We organized and presented our results in three sections: (a) gender and sexuality, (b) race and ethnicity, and (c) physical ability and disability. For each section, we specified the relevant research details, summarized the nature and characteristics of articles reviewed in a table, and described the themes derived from the reviews of literature. An overall finding was the dearth of research on young adolescent identity and experiences. Our research highlights the importance of an intersectional approach for understanding and studying the totality of young adolescent identity and experiences.
Human Papilloma Virus Infection in Men: A Specific Human Virome or a Specific Pathology?
Authors: Čulav Ivana , Skerlev Mihael , Starčević Lidija Žele , Hrabač Pero , Ljubojević Hadžavdić Suzana , Bešlić Iva , Lugović Mihić Liborija
Published: February 2025

Background: Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections in men remain under-researched despite their critical role in disease transmission and the increasing incidence of HPV-related cancers. This study investigates the clinical and molecular characteristics of anogenital HPV infections in men, emphasizing genotype prevalence, diagnostic methods, and lesion variability. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 70 men aged 18–65 years with clinically diagnosed anogenital HPV infection. Lesions were characterized by morphology and location. HPV DNA was analyzed using INNO-LiPA (INNOvative Line Probe Assay), Hybrid Capture II (HC II), and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays to determine genotype distribution. Associations between clinical features and HPV genotypes were assessed using multivariate statistical analyses. Results: Lesions varied in morphology, with verrucous (52.86%) and papular (30%) types being the most common. Localization patterns showed predominance on the penis radix (34.29%) and shaft (27.14%). Molecular testing revealed HPV DNA in 88.57% of the cases using INNO-LiPA, compared to 45% and 40% with HC II and PCR, respectively. Low-risk (LR) genotypes, particularly HPV6, dominated single infections, comprising 68.57% of the cases, while high-risk (HR) genotypes accounted for 20%. Mixed LR and HR infections were observed in 14.29% of the lesions, with greater diversity noted in distal genital regions. Notably, condyloma plana and lesions on the inner prepuce exhibited a higher prevalence of HR and mixed infections. Age and lesion duration showed trends toward older patients and longer disease duration in cases involving perianal and extragenital condylomas, though these findings were not statistically significant. No direct correlation between lesion type or localization and specific genotypes was identified, underscoring the heterogeneity of HPV clinical manifestations in men. Conclusions: Anogenital HPV infections in men exhibit significant heterogeneity in lesion morphology, localization, and genotype distribution. HR HPV genotypes were detected in a notable proportion of benign lesions, underscoring their potential role in disease progression. INNO-LiPA proved superior in diagnostic accuracy, highlighting the need for standardized and cost-effective diagnostic approaches for men. Further research is crucial to elucidate HPV’s clinical impact in men and inform prevention and treatment strategies.
SPECT/CT Scan Images to Evaluate COVID-19 Pulmonary Complications: A Systematic Review
Authors: Coelho-Oliveira Ana Carolina , Taiar Redha , Jaques-Albuquerque Luelia Teles , Valério-Penha Ana Gabriellie , Reis-Silva Aline , Ferreira-Souza Luiz Felipe , da Cunha de Sá-Caputo Danúbia , Bernardo-Filho Mario
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The highly contagious 2019 novel coronavirus that causes coronavirus disease 2019 increased the scientific community’s interest in diagnosing and monitoring COVID-19. Due to the findings about the association between COVID-19 infection and pulmonary disturbances, the need for the use of complementary tests that can be carried out, preserving the health of patients, has grown. In this context, single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) was performed during the COVID-19 pandemic to assess and try to diagnose lung lesions. The aim of this current review was to investigate the types of SPECT images most commonly used and the main pulmonary parenchymal lesions and different lung perfusion abnormalities observed in these images in individuals with COVID-19 in different countries in the world. Materials and Methods: Electronic searches in the MEDLINE/PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and CINAHL databases were conducted in December 2022. Studies that used SPECT/CT scans to evaluate pulmonary involvements due to COVID-19, with no language restriction, were included. Two reviewers, who independently examined titles and abstracts, identified records through the database search and reference screening, and irrelevant studies were excluded based on the eligibility criteria. Relevant complete texts were analyzed for eligibility, and all relevant studies were included in a systematic review. Results: Eight studies with regular methodological quality were included. The types of SPECT examinations used in the included articles were SPECT/CT, Q SPECT/CT, and V/Q SPECT. The possible pulmonary complication most observed was pulmonary embolism. Conclusions: This systematic review demonstrated that SPECT/CT scans, mainly with perfusion methods, allow the maximum extraction of benefits from pulmonary images, in safety, suggesting efficiency in the differential diagnosis, including of respiratory diseases of different etiology, and with diagnostics and additional analyses, can possibly aid the development of suitable therapeutic strategies for each patient. Randomized clinical trials and studies of good methodological quality are necessary to confirm the findings of this review and help better understand the types of SPECT images most commonly used and the main pulmonary parenchymal lesions observed in the images in individuals with COVID-19.
Initial Requirements for the Prototyping of an App for a Psychosocial Rehabilitation Project: An Integrative Review
Authors: Alfredo Ardisson Cirino Campos Fagner , Feitosa Fabio Biasotto , Moll Marciana Fernandes , Reis Igor de Oliveira , Sánchez García José Carlos , Ventura Carla Aparecida Arena
Published: February 2025

The Psychosocial Rehabilitation Project (PRP) is a tool designed to structure and organize mental health care, guided by the theoretical and practical principles of Psychosocial Rehabilitation (PR). This article aims to identify the initial requirements for the prototyping of a “Psychosocial Rehabilitation Project App”. To achieve this, an integrative review was conducted with the research question: what initial requirements are important to compose the prototype of the “Psychosocial Rehabilitation Project App” in mental health? In the search process, 834 articles were identified and exported to the online systematic review application Rayyan QCRI, resulting in 36 eligible articles for this study, along with one app. The reading of this material allowed the elicitation of three themes: privacy and data protection policy; design; and software and programming. The prototyping of the “Psychosocial Rehabilitation Project App” should prioritize data security and protection, simplicity in design, and the integration of technological resources that facilitate the management, construction, monitoring, and evaluation of psychosocial rehabilitation projects by mental health professionals.
The Proteome of Exosomes at Birth Predicts Insulin Resistance, Adrenarche and Liver Fat in Childhood
Authors: Díaz Marta , Quesada-López Tania , Villarroya Francesc , Casano Paula , López-Bermejo Abel , de Zegher Francis , Ibáñez Lourdes
Published: February 2025

It is unknown whether there are differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) in the circulating exosomes of appropriate- vs. small-for-gestational-age (AGA vs. SGA) infants, and if so, whether such DEPs relate to measures of endocrine–metabolic health and body composition in childhood. Proteomic analysis in cord-blood-derived exosomes was performed by label-free quantitative mass spectrometry in AGA (n = 20) and SGA infants (n = 20) and 91 DEPs were identified. Enrichment analysis revealed that they were related to complement and coagulation cascades, lipid metabolism, neural development, PI3K/Akt and RAS/RAF/MAPK signaling pathways, phagocytosis and focal adhesion. Protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis identified 39 DEPs involved in the pathways enriched by the KEGG and Reactome. Those DEPs were associated with measures of adiposity and insulin resistance and with liver fat at age 7 (all p < 0.01). Multivariate linear regression analysis uncovered that two DEPs (up-regulated in SGA), namely PCYOX1 (related to adipogenesis) and HSP90AA1 (related to lipid metabolism and metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease progression), were independent predictors of the hepatic fat fraction at age 7 (β = 0.634; p = 0.002; R2 = 52% and β = 0.436; p = 0.009; R2 = 24%, respectively). These data suggest that DEPs at birth may predict insulin resistance, adrenarche and/or ectopic adiposity in SGA children at age 7, when an early insulin-sensitizing intervention could be considered.
Carboxylated Osteocalcin as an Independent Predictor of Mean Arterial Pressure and the Atherogenic Index in Adults
Authors: Villafán-Bernal José Rafael , Rivas-Carrillo Jorge David , Guzmán-Guzmán Iris Paola , Frias-Cabrera Jose Luis , Rivera-León Edgar Alfonso , Martinez-Portilla Raigam Jafet , Sánchez-Enríquez Sergio
Published: February 2025

Bone-derived proteins, including carboxylated osteocalcin (cOC), are thought to play a role in cardiovascular and metabolic health. cOC is recognized for its strong affinity for calcium hydroxyapatite and its possible involvement in vascular calcification and lipid metabolism. Although the undercarboxylated form of osteocalcin (ucOC) has been widely researched, the connections between cOC and cardiovascular risk markers, such as mean arterial pressure (MAP), pulse pressure (PP), and the atherogenic index, are still not well understood. This cross-sectional study comprised 81 adults from Western Mexico; selection was based on rigorous inclusion criteria. Participants underwent various measurements, including anthropometric, biochemical, and cardiovascular assessments, such as the body mass index (BMI), body fat percentage, serum glucose, insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), lipid profile, creatinine, blood pressure parameters, and the atherogenic index. Serum cOC levels were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The study examined the relationships between cOC and cardiovascular/metabolic markers using inferential statistics and correlation coefficients. Multivariate linear analysis was performed to identify factors independently associated with the serum levels of cOC. Multivariate analysis revealed that MAP (B coefficient: 0.138, 95% CI: 0.028–0.247, p = 0.015) and the atherogenic index (B coefficient: 0.599, 95% CI: −0.039–1.161, p = 0.037) are independent predictors of cOC levels. A positive correlation was observed between cOC, PP, the atherogenic index, and HbA1, as well as an inverse correlation between cOC and HDL-c among the participants. Additionally, PP was positively correlated with HOMA-IR. Participants with elevated cOC levels showed higher MAP and atherogenic index values, indicating a potential connection between cOC and cardiovascular risk. cOC is independently associated with MAP and the atherogenic index, suggesting it may play a role in vascular remodeling and lipid metabolism. These results emphasize the importance of the bone–vascular axis in cardiovascular health and indicate that cOC might be a useful biomarker for assessing cardiovascular risk. Additional research is necessary to confirm these findings in larger, long-term studies and to investigate the mechanisms that connect cOC with cardiovascular outcomes.
Fabrication and Characterization of a Stretchable Sodium Alginate Hydrogel Patch Combined with Silicon Nitride and Metalized Halloysite Nanotubes to Develop a Chronic Wound Healing Treatment
Authors: Alakija Femi B. , Mills David K.
Published: February 2025

The human body is known as a responsive healing machine, but sometimes, broken bones do not heal, especially if a bacterial infection is present. The present study describes the fabrication and characterization of a nanocomposite hydrogel patch incorporated with silicon nitride and magnesium oxide (MgO) deposited on the halloysite nanotube (HNT) surface using a facile and inexpensive electrodeposition coating process. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was used to observe the surface morphology of the MgO/HNT surface coating and the nanocomposite patch. Material characterization, including SEM, contact angle, pore size analysis, and tensile properties, was performed to determine the composite’s structure and material properties. E. coli and S. aureus bacterial cultures were used to test the antimicrobial properties. Cellular response to MgO/HNTs was studied using mouse embryonic fibroblasts. The nanocomposite hydrogel patch was discovered to possess inherent properties when tested against bacterial cultures, and it was found to enhance fibroblast cell migration and proliferation. The nanocomposite hydrogel patch also showed sustained drug release. Materials involved in the fabrication helped in the swelling properties by which the nanocomposite hydrogel patch has approximately 400% of its initial weight discovered during the swelling test.