bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Whole-Body MRI Reporting and Data System Guidelines for Prostate Cancer (MET-RADS-P), Multiple Myeloma (MY-RADS), and Cancer Screening (ONCO-RADS)
Authors: Parillo Marco , Mallio Carlo Augusto
Published: January 2025

Whole-body magnetic resonance imaging (WB-MRI) is being employed with increasing frequency to evaluate a broader spectrum of patients with diverse types of cancer and for cancer screening purposes. While clinical guidelines support its use, a standardized radiological approach is still lacking. To improve consistency in the acquisition, interpretation, and reporting of WB-MRI examinations, three reporting and data systems (RADSs) have been recently suggested: METastasis Reporting and Data System for Prostate Cancer (MET-RADS-P), Myeloma Response Assessment and Diagnosis System (MY-RADS), and Oncologically Relevant Findings Reporting and Data System (ONCO-RADS). MET-RADS-P was developed to stage and monitor men with advanced prostate cancer using WB-MRI. It has emerged as a reliable imaging biomarker for predicting metastatic disease progression and assessing treatment response. MY-RADS was developed to stage and monitor patients with multiple myeloma using WB-MRI, emerging as a prognostic imaging biomarker. However, the evidence regarding inter-reader agreement for MY-RADS is currently limited. ONCO-RADS was developed to standardize the use of WB-MRI for cancer screening in individuals with cancer predisposition syndromes and in the general population. While initial findings are promising, the evidence supporting its use remains limited. To further validate and expand upon these promising preliminary findings, additional large-scale, prospective, multicenter studies are necessary.
Meeting Cancer Detection Benchmarks in MRI/Ultrasound Fusion Biopsy for Prostate Cancer: Insights from a Retrospective Analysis of Experienced Urologists
Authors: Utzat Fabian , Herrmann Stefanie , May Matthias , Moersler Johannes , Wolff Ingmar , Lermer Johann , Gregor Mate , Fodor Katharina , Groß Verena , Kravchuk Anton , Elgeti Thomas , Degener Stephan , Gilfrich Christian
Published: January 2025

Background: The relationship between case volume and clinical outcomes is well established for most urological procedures but remains underexplored in prostate ultrasound/MRI fusion biopsy (UMFB). UMFB aims to detect clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) by adhering to cancer detection benchmarks for PI-RADS lesions identified via multiparametric MRI (mpMRI). These benchmarks, defined by Ahmed et al., include cumulative cancer detection rate (C-CDR) targets of >80% for PI-RADS 5, >50% for PI-RADS 4, and <20% for PI-RADS 1–3. Methods: This retrospective, single-center study analyzed the case volumes required for two experienced urologists (U1 and U2, each with >15 years of practice) to consistently achieve the Ahmed-defined C-CDR benchmarks for csPCa (ISUP grade ≥ 2) using UMFB. Both transrectal and transperineal approaches were included to enable comprehensive learning curve analysis. Data from 2017 to 2023 were reviewed, encompassing 157 UMFBs performed by U1 and 242 by U2, with a transrectal-to-perineal ratio of 7:3. Results: Both urologists achieved Ahmed-defined C-CDR targets from the outset. Over a median follow-up of 30 months, patients with initial PI-RADS 4 or 5 ratings and negative primary biopsies remained prostate cancer-free in 77% of cases for U1 and 91.2% for U2 (p = 0.152). Conclusions: This study demonstrates that experienced urologists can achieve high diagnostic accuracy and maintain patient safety immediately upon implementing UMFB, meeting established benchmarks without requiring additional procedural learning.
DNA Repair Capacity and Clinicopathological Characteristics in Puerto Rican Hispanic/Latino Patients with Metastatic Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Matta Jaime , Ortiz-Sánchez Carmen , Encarnación-Medina Jarline , Torres-Caraballo Stephanie , Oliveras Jose , Park Jong , Arroyo Monica M. , Ruiz-Deya Gilberto
Published: January 2025

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) accounts for 22% of the new cases diagnosed in Hispanic/Latino (H/L) men in the US. PCa has the highest incidence (38.3%) and mortality (16.4%) among all types of cancer diagnosed in Puerto Rico. We previously showed that PCa patients (n = 41) have a significant reduction of 59% in their levels of DNA repair capacity (DRC) when compared to controls (n = 14). This study aimed to evaluate DRC levels through the nucleotide excision repair (NER) pathway for the first time in 16 Puerto Rican H/L men with metastatic castration-resistant PCa (mCRPCa) while establishing comparisons with controls and PCa patients with indolent and aggressive disease. Methods: Blood samples and clinicopathological data from PCa cases (n = 71) and controls (n = 25) were evaluated. PCa cases were stratified into mCRPCa (n = 16), aggressive (n = 31), and indolent (n = 24). DRC levels through NER were measured in lymphocytes with the CometChip assay. The stratification by Gleason score (GS) was GS6 (n = 7), GS7 (n = 23), GS ≥ 8 (n = 20), and mCRPCa patients (n = 16). Results: Significant statistical differences were found when comparing the DRC values of the controls with any other of the four PCa patient groups. mCRPCa patients had the lowest mean DRC level of all four patient groups studied. The mean DRC level of mCRPCa patients was 6.65%, and compared to the controls, this represented a statistically significant reduction of 62% (p < 0.0001). Further analysis was performed to evaluate the contributions of age, anthropometric measurements, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels to the DRC. Kaplan–Meier curves of mCRPCa revealed that survival probability decreased by approximately 50% by 30 months. This pilot study uses a blood-based phenotypic assay to present the first report of mCRPCa in Puerto Rican men and at a global level of DRC levels of mCRPCa patients. Conclusions: This study evaluated DRC levels through the NER pathway for the first time in 16 Puerto Rican H/L men with mCRPCa. Significant differences in DRC values were found between the controls and the three PCa patient groups. Kaplan–Meier curves revealed that survival probability decreased by approximately 50% by 30 months, and only 20% of the cohort was alive at 50 months, confirming the lethality of mCRPCa in this H/L population. This pilot study represents the first report of metastatic PCa in Puerto Rican men at a global level of DRC levels of mCRPCa patients using a blood-based phenotypic assay.
Evaluating the Effectiveness of Regulatory Frameworks for Transitioning to Net-Zero Energy Buildings in a Tropical Desert Climate
Authors: Mestarehi Motaz , Omar Osama
Published: January 2025

Domestic electricity consumption in the Kingdom of Bahrain accounts for 48% of total national electricity consumption, increasing between 1.5 and 3.5% annually. This increase is due to indoor cooling electricity accounting for up to 80% of domestic electricity consumption. The Kingdom is aiming for a reduction in carbon emissions of 30% by 2035 and to achieve carbon neutrality by 2060. Hence, reducing electricity consumption is necessary. Recently, the Kingdom’s Electricity and Water Authority has issued updated building regulations regarding the maximum thermal transmittance allowed for residential buildings. This study employed a quantitative simulation of a typical housing unit (T8) in the Kingdom of Bahrain, assessing building envelope materials and air conditioning efficacy following the updated building regulations via DesignBuilder V. 7.0.2.006 software. Additionally, this study examined the potential of building regulations to facilitate the transition to net-zero energy buildings by comparing electricity consumption with renewable energy generated from rooftop photovoltaic panels. It was determined that electricity consumption could be reduced by up to 52% by following building regulations and relying on current materials in the residential sector. Furthermore, this reduction may facilitate the Kingdom’s attainment of net-zero energy status through onsite power generation of 12,500 kWh/year. This study concluded that achieving net-zero energy status is possible by following building regulations and relying on commercially accessible construction materials; however, guidelines for energy storage or a feed-in tariff for the residential sector must be established.
Effects of Chinese Herbal Medicines on Growth Performance, Antioxidant Capacity, and Liver and Intestinal Health of Hybrid Snakehead (Channa maculata ♀ × Channa. argus ♂)
Authors: Kang Jiamin , Fei Shuzhan , Zhang Junhao , Liu Haiyang , Luo Qing , Ou Mi , Cui Langjun , Li Tao , Zhao Jian
Published: January 2025

Chinese herbal medicines have become a new green feed additive in the aquaculture industry. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of traditional Chinese herbal medicines (Isatidis radix, Forsythia suspensa, and Schisandra chinensis) on the growth performance, antioxidant capacity, and intestinal microbiota of hybrid snakehead (Channa maculata ♀ × Channa argus ♂). A total of 600 fish (mean weight: 15.85 ± 0.15 g) were randomly assigned to five groups, including the control group (CG), I. radix extract group (IRE), F. suspensa extract group (FSE), S. chinensis extract group (SCE), and the Chinese herbal medicine mixture group (CHMM; a mixture of extracts of I. radix, F. suspensa, and S. chinensis at the ratio of 1:1:1) for 6 weeks. The results show that the IRE-supplemented diet improved the survival rate (SR), feed efficiency ratio (FE), and condition factor (CF) compared to others. Compared to the control group, the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in plasma and intestine was significantly increased in the FSE and CHMM groups, whereas the content of malondialdehyde (MDA) in plasma and liver was significantly reduced in the SCE group. A 16s rRNA analysis indicates that dietary supplementation with FSE significantly promoted the proliferation of Fusobacteriota, while IRE supplementation increased the alpha diversity of intestinal bacteria. In conclusion, the addition of I. radix to the diet of hybrid snakehead improves growth, antioxidant capacity, and liver and intestine health, and modulates the intestinal microbiota of snakehead positively.
Structure Characterization and Antioxidant Activity of a Novel Polysaccharide from Bacillus natto Fermented Millet Bran
Authors: Zhang Hanzhuo , Fan Xia , Zhao Wenjie , Meng Fanqiang , Lu Fengxia , Lu Zhaoxin , Zhao Haizhen
Published: January 2025

To improve the high-value application of millet bran, a water-soluble polysaccharide was extracted from fermented millet bran (FMBP) by using Bacillus natto fermentation. A neutral polysaccharide, FMBP-1, was separated and purified from FMBP using an anion exchange column. Its structure and antioxidant activity in vitro were characterized and determined. The molecular weight of FMBP-1 was 1.154 × 104 Da, and its molecular weight distribution was relatively uniform. The monosaccharide composition, FT-IR, methylation, and NMR results indicated that FMBP-1 was only composed of glucose and was an α-(1→4)-D-glucan that branched at O-6 with a terminal 1-linked α-D-Glcp as a side chain. In addition, the antioxidant assays indicated that FMBP-1 possessed certain capacities for scavenging free radicals and reducing power, and this was in a concentration-dependent manner. This research will provide fundamental data regarding the structure–activity relationship of millet bran polysaccharides and provide a theoretical foundation for the high-value utilization of millet bran within the food and pharmaceutical industries.
Genotype–Phenotype Correlations of Nance–Horan Syndrome in Male and Female Carriers of a Novel Variant
Authors: Zin Olivia A. , Neves Luiza M. , Motta Fabiana L. , Junior Daltro C. , Cunha Daniela P. , Agonigi Bruna N. S. , Malacarne Jocieli , Rodrigues Ana Paula S. , Rodrigues Gabriela D. , Tinoco Maria Luisa C. , Horovitz Dafne D. G. , Carvalho Adriana B. , Zin Andrea A. , Vasconcelos Zilton F. M. , Sallum Juliana M. Ferraz
Published: January 2025

Background: Nance–Horan syndrome (NHS) is a rare, frequently underdiagnosed, X-linked disease caused by mutations in the NHS gene. In males, it causes bilateral dense pediatric cataracts, dental anomalies, and facial dysmorphisms. Females traditionally have a more subtle phenotype with discrete lens opacities as an isolated feature. The objective of this case report is to describe a novel variant in NHS, as well as to discuss genotype–phenotype correlations. Methods: Whole-exome sequencing was performed in 3 affected individuals (2 males and 1 female) with pediatric cataracts from the same family, as well as in 2 unaffected members from the same family. Ophthalmological and clinical genetic evaluations were conducted. Results: The likely pathogenic variant c.3333del (p.Phe1111Leufs*9) was found in all affected individuals, as well as in one unaffected female family member. Our family was initially diagnosed with isolated hereditary cataracts, but only after the sequencing results was the phenotype revealed, with the systemic features being identified. Conclusions: This reinforces the importance of genetic testing of bilateral familial pediatric cataracts, especially since systemic features such as dental anomalies and intellectual disability may take years before they develop. Not only did genetic testing help to identify extraocular features, but it also made possible accurate family counseling essential in all pediatric cataract cases.
The Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of MYO3A-Associated Hearing Loss in 15,684 Hearing Loss Patients
Authors: Maekawa Karuna , Nishio Shin-ya , Miyazaki Hiromitsu , Ohta Yoko , Oishi Naoki , Kasai Misato , Yamamoto Ai , Okami Mayuri , Wasano Koichiro , Sakai Akihiro , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: MYO3A belongs to the unconventional myosin superfamily, and the myosin IIIa protein localizes on the tip of the stereocilia of vestibular and cochlear hair cells. Deficiencies in MYO3A have been reported to cause the deformation of hair cells into abnormally long stereocilia with an increase in spacing. MYO3A is a rare causative gene of autosomal recessive sensorineural hearing loss (DFNB30), with only 13 cases reported to date. In this study, we aimed to elucidate the phenotypes caused by MYO3A variations. Methods: Massively parallel DNA sequencing was performed on 15,684 Japanese hearing loss patients (mean age 27.5 ± 23.1 years old, 6574 male, 8612 female and 498 patients for whom information was unavailable), identifying nine candidate patients with MYO3A variants. Results: We identified eight causative MYO3A variants by massively parallel DNA sequencing, including six novel variants, and reported nine individuals possessing MYO3A gene variants, which is the largest group of non-related patients yet to be detected. Our findings confirmed that MYO3A variants cause progressive hearing loss, with its onset varying from birth to the second decade, eventually leading to severe-to-profound hearing loss. Conclusions: We clarified that patients with MYO3A gene variants present with late-onset, progressive hearing loss. Our findings have enabled us to predict the outcomes of hearing loss in patients with candidate MYO3A gene variants and to provide intervention in a timely manner.
Exploring the Intersection of Mental and Reproductive Health Among Women Living with HIV in Spain: A Qualitative Secondary Data Analysis
Authors: Huertas-Zurriaga Ariadna , Giménez-Díez David , Leyva-Moral Juan M.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Globally, girls and women make up over half of those living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), facing unique reproductive and mental health challenges. An HIV diagnosis impacts motherhood desires and increases trauma, stigma, and depression risks. Addressing these overlapping vulnerabilities with tailored, comprehensive healthcare is essential. This study aims to qualitatively explore the complex interplay between mental health and reproductive decision making among women living with HIV (WLWH). Methods: A secondary data analysis approach was employed, utilizing qualitative data from a wider study. Theoretical sampling was used to recruit a sample of WLWH attending the HIV clinic at a public hospital in Badalona (Barcelona, Spain). Interviews took place in a private and quiet space between May 2019 and January 2020. To perform secondary data analysis, Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis was used. Results: Twenty-six women living with HIV were interviewed, with an average age of 39.3 years. The participants had diverse nationalities and faced economic challenges. Following data analysis, four main themes were identified: Emotional Fragmentation and Reproductive Self-Perception after the HIV Diagnosis; Coping Strategies in Reproductive Decision Making; Impacting Emotional Resilience and Motherhood Decisions; and Emotions, Mental Health, and Desire for Motherhood. The themes revealed the profound emotional impact of HIV on their identity, mental health, and reproductive decision making, affecting motherhood aspirations. Conclusions: Women living with HIV face psychological challenges in reproductive decision making, including anxiety and stigma. The study highlights their resilience and emphasizes incorporating hope-based strategies into HIV care, advocating for integrated and mental health-focused approaches to improve support and outcomes.
The Impact of Healthcare Reforms on the Epidemiology Workforce in Kazakhstan: An Interrupted Time Series Analysis with Predictive Modeling of Nationwide Data Sources from 1998 to 2022
Authors: Akpanova Togzhan , Rakhypbekov Tolebay , Semenova Yuliya , Mussakhanova Akmaral , Turgambayeva Assiya , Zhanaliyeva Marina , Zharilkassimov Ruslan , Kim Sergey , Alzhanova Aigerim , Sekenova Raushan , Dauletyarova Marzhan
Published: January 2025

Background: Following its independence, Kazakhstan implemented several reforms, including the adoption of the Entrepreneurial Code in 2008. This study aims to evaluate the impact of these reforms on the number and per capita rates of epidemiologists, nurse epidemiologists, epidemiological surveillance centers, and infectious morbidity from 1998 to 2022. Such an evaluation is critical for informing policy decisions regarding the future of epidemiological services in Kazakhstan. Methods: An interrupted time series analysis using a best-fit epidemiological model was conducted to assess the impact of key interventions—specifically, the adoption of the Entrepreneurial Code of the Republic of Kazakhstan and subsequent legislation—on the number and per capita rates of epidemiologists, nurse epidemiologists, and epidemiological surveillance facilities with infectious morbidity across the country. Results: Infectious morbidity per million individuals ranged from 4698.14 to 2263.79, with a consistent downward trend observed throughout the study period. Over the study period, the per capita rates of urban epidemiologists exhibited a downward trend, whereas the rates of rural epidemiologists showed an upward trajectory. The per capita rate of epidemiological surveillance centers declined from 26.89 to 15.24 over the study period. Substantial disparities were observed between urban and rural areas, with the epidemiology workforce in urban settings being 3–4 times larger than that in rural areas. Conclusions: This evaluation is important for informing policy decisions regarding the future of epidemiological surveillance services in Kazakhstan.
Fecal Microbiota Strongly Correlates with Tissue Microbiota Composition in Colorectal Cancer but Not in Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Vicente-Valor Juan , Tesolato Sofía , Paz-Cabezas Mateo , Gómez-Garre Dulcenombre , Ortega-Hernández Adriana , de la Serna Sofía , Domínguez-Serrano Inmaculada , Dziakova Jana , Rivera Daniel , Jarabo Jose-Ramón , Gómez-Martínez Ana-María , Hernando Florentino , Torres Antonio , Iniesta Pilar
Published: January 2025

Microbiota could be of interest in the diagnosis of colorectal and non-small cell lung cancer (CRC and NSCLC). However, how the microbial components of tissues and feces reflect each other remains unknown. In this work, our main objective is to discover the degree of correlation between the composition of the tissue microbiota and that of the feces of patients affected by CRC and NSCLC. Specifically, we investigated tumor and non-tumor tissues from 38 recruited patients with CRC and 19 with NSCLC. DNA from samples was submitted for 16S rDNA metagenomic sequencing, followed by data analysis through the QIIME2 pipeline and further statistical processing with STATA IC16. Tumor and non-tumor tissue selected genera were highly correlated in both CRC and NSCLC (100% and 81.25%). Following this, we established tissue–feces correlations, using selected genera from a LEfSe analysis previously published. In CRC, we found a strong correlation between the taxa detected in feces and those from colorectal tissues. However, our data do not demonstrate this correlation in NSCLC. In conclusion, our findings strongly reinforce the utility of fecal microbiota as a non-invasive biomarker for CRC diagnosis, while highlighting critical distinctions for NSCLC. Furthermore, our data demonstrate that the microbiota components of tumor and non-tumor tissues are similar, with only minor differences being detected.
Improved YOLOv10 for Visually Impaired: Balancing Model Accuracy and Efficiency in the Case of Public Transportation
Authors: Arifando Rio , Eto Shinji , Tibyani Tibyani , Wada Chikamune
Published: January 2025

Advancements in automation and artificial intelligence have significantly impacted accessibility for individuals with visual impairments, particularly in the realm of bus public transportation. Effective bus detection and bus point-of-view (POV) classification are crucial for enhancing the independence of visually impaired individuals. This study introduces the Improved-YOLOv10, a novel model designed to tackle challenges in bus identification and pov classification by integrating Coordinate Attention (CA) and Adaptive Kernel Convolution (AKConv) into the YOLOv10 framework. The Improved YOLOv10 advances the YOLOv10 architecture through the incorporation of CA, which enhances long-range dependency modeling and spatial awareness, and AKConv, which dynamically adjusts convolutional kernels for superior feature extraction. These enhancements aim to improve both detection accuracy and efficiency, essential for real-time applications in assistive technologies. Evaluation results demonstrate that the Improved-YOLOv10 offers significant improvements in detection performance, including better Accuracy, Precision and Recall compared to YOLOv10. The model also exhibits reduced computational complexity and storage requirements, highlighting its efficiency. While the classification results show some trade-offs, with slightly decreased overall F1 score, the complexity of Giga Floating Point Operations (GFLOPs), Parameters, and Weight/MB in the Improved-YOLOv10 remains advantageous for classification tasks. The model’s architectural improvements contribute to its robustness and efficiency, making it a suitable choice for real-time applications and assistive technologies.
Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Increases the Risk of Lung Abscess: Findings from a Nationwide Cohort Study
Authors: Lee Eunso , Kim Jungok , Yoon Sun-Young
Published: January 2025

Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the association between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), assessed by the Fatty Liver Index (FLI), and the occurrence of lung abscess within a large population-based cohort. Method: We conducted a nationwide retrospective study using data from 367,930 subjects who underwent National Health check-ups between 2009 and 2018. Cox proportional hazards regression was performed to evaluate the association between the FLI and the incidence of lung abscess and community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) after adjusting for age, sex, and relevant covariates. Results: Among the study population, 455 (0.12%) and 44,934 (12.2%) patients were diagnosed with lung abscesses and CAP, respectively. The cumulative incidence of lung abscess was higher in individuals with elevated FLI values (FLI < 30, 0.10%; 30 ≤ FLI < 60, 0.16%; FLI ≥ 60, 0.18%; p < 0.001), whereas the incidence of CAP decreased across FLI groups (FLI < 30, 12.4%; 30 ≤ FLI < 60, 12.3%; FLI ≥ 60, 11.0%; p < 0.001). After adjusting for covariates, the risk of lung abscess significantly increased in the 30 ≤ FLI < 60 (Hazard ratio (HR) = 1.26; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.95–1.68; p = 0.115) and the FLI ≥ 60 (HR = 1.67; 95% CI, 1.37–2.29; p < 0.001) groups, although the risk of CAP was relatively small in both groups (30 ≤ FLI < 60; HR = 1.06; 95% CI, 1.03–1.09; p < 0.001) (FLI ≥ 60; HR = 1.13; 95% CI, 1.08–1.12; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our study provides compelling evidence supporting a potential link between NAFLD, as measured by FLI, and the incidence of lung abscess. These findings suggest the importance of vigilant monitoring of respiratory health in patients with NAFLD and emphasise the need for early detection of possible complications.
Efficient Personalization in E-Commerce: Leveraging Universal Customer Representations with Embeddings
Authors: Alves Gomes Miguel , Meisen Philipp , Meisen Tobias
Published: January 2025

E-commerce has grown into a billion-dollar industry in recent times with an ever-increasing number of individuals using it regularly. Thus, e-commerce companies can gather interaction data from their customers and analyze it to create focused and personalized marketing campaigns. For large companies, it is possible to tap into these data for personalization using deep learning-based methods that require enormous computing resources. Small companies, on the other hand, cannot afford this. Furthermore, this level of tailor-made addressing necessitates an accurate customer representation. Nevertheless, the exploration of universal representations applicable across various tasks has been limited despite the advantages they offer. We propose a universal customer representation learned only from customer interaction data. We demonstrate that self-supervised trained embeddings of the customer interaction context are a suitable universal customer representation for various e-commerce tasks. To demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach, we conducted experiments comparing four different state-of-the-art approaches and their capabilities in different prediction tasks. Not only do we show that our method outperforms others in most cases, but it also meets other important criteria for real-world applications. It is particularly important to emphasize that our approach does not require a significant amount of resources, and furthermore, is data protection compliant by not using personal information.
Environment of European Last Mammoths: Reconstructing the Landcover of the Eastern Baltic Area at the Pleistocene/Holocene Transition
Authors: Krivokorin Ivan , Poska Anneli , Vassiljev Jüri , Veski Siim , Amon Leeli
Published: January 2025

The Eastern Baltic area stands out as a unique location due to the finds of Europe’s youngest dated mammoth remains (12.6–11.2 ka cal BP). Our study explores the drastic climate and landcover changes during the extinction of these gigantic herbivores at the Pleistocene/Holocene boundary. We used macrofossil analysis to determine the major contemporary terrestrial plant genera present in the area and used corresponding pollen taxa for REVEALS model-based landcover reconstructions. Our results indicate that these last mammoths utilised the open landcover of the Eastern Baltic, which developed as the continental ice sheet retreated during the termination of the last glaciation. Due to climate warming during the initial stages of the Holocene interglacial, the Eastern Baltic became speedily populated by birch and pine forests. The abrupt disappearance of typical forb-dominated tundra indicators, such as Dryas octopetala, and the fast increase in tree birch marked a shift from an open, tundra-like landscape to a forested one, making the environment inhospitable for mammoths even in northernmost Estonia by the beginning of the Holocene. A comparison between the isotopic values of nitrogen (δ15N) and carbon (δ13C) obtained from mammoths’ molars from 14.3 and 11.3 to 43.5 and 39.1 ka cal BP showed that mammoths experienced a decline in the nutritional value of their diet, resulting in their demise in the Eastern Baltic.
Photobiomodulation Therapy for Neurosensory Disturbances in Orthognathic Surgery Patients: A Systematic Review
Authors: Olszewska Aneta , Wolny Mateusz , Kensy Julia , Kotela Agnieszka , Czajka-Jakubowska Agata , Matys Jacek
Published: January 2025

Background: Sensory disturbances and acquired paresthesia constitute a significant proportion of complications following orthognathic surgery. This systematic review examines the application of photobiomodulation (PBM) in managing these complications and its efficacy in promoting sensory recovery. Methods: In November 2024, a comprehensive digital search was performed across reputable databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, using carefully selected search terms: “orthognathic surgery” AND (physiotherapy OR physical therapy OR laser OR LLLT OR PBM OR light OR LED OR acupuncture) AND (nerve OR neurosensory OR paresthesia). The search adhered to the PRISMA guidelines. Of the 424 articles initially identified, 14 met the inclusion criteria and were included in the review. Results: The review focused on diode laser therapy for treating inferior alveolar nerve injuries, with most studies targeting this nerve and exploring diverse wavelengths, protocols, and surgical contexts, including orthognathic surgeries. Significant improvements were observed in tactile sensitivity, pain perception, and mechanical responsiveness. Factors such as earlier initiation of therapy, younger patient age, and higher treatment frequency were associated with improved outcomes. Conclusions: Low-level laser therapy emerges as a safe and effective intervention for enhancing neurosensory recovery following orthognathic surgery. However, the development of standardized treatment protocols and the conduct of larger-scale clinical trials are essential to optimize their clinical application.
Co-Existing Nanoplastics Further Exacerbates the Effects of Triclosan on the Physiological Functions of Human Serum Albumin
Authors: Bao Yan , Wang Yaoyao , Liu Hongbin , Lan Jing , Li Zhicai , Zong Wansong , Zhao Zongshan
Published: January 2025

The potential health risks posed by the coexistence of nanoplastics (NPs) and triclosan (TCS) have garnered significant attention. However, the effects and underlying mechanisms of NPs and TCS on key functional proteins at the molecular level remain poorly understood. This study reports the effect of polystyrene nanoplastics (PSNPs) on the binding of TCS to human serum albumin (HSA) using multispectral methods and molecular simulation systems. The experimental results show that TCS significantly inhibits HSA esterase activity, with exacerbating inhibition in the presence of PSNPs, which is attributed to the alteration of HSA conformation and microenvironment of the amino acid residues induced by PSNPs. Molecular docking and site marker competitive studies indicate that TCS predominantly binds to site I of subdomain Sudlow II and the presence of PSNPs does not affect the binding sites. Spectra analyses indicate that the quenching mechanism between TCS and HSA belongs to the static quenching type and the presence of PSNPs does not change the fluorescence quenching type. The HSA fluorescence quenching and the conformational alterations induced by TCS are further enhanced in the presence of PSNPs, indicating that PSNPs enhance the binding of TCS to HSA by making TCS more accessible to the binding sites. This study provides valuable information about the toxicity of PSNPs and TCS in case of co-exposure.
State of Change-Related Hybrid Energy Storage System Integration in Fuzzy Sliding Mode Load Frequency Control Power System with Electric Vehicles
Authors: Xie Yuzhe , Liao Peng , Liang Zhihao , Zhou Dan
Published: January 2025

In the context of the integration of hybrid energy storage systems (HESSs) and electric vehicles (EVs), this paper investigates the load frequency control (LFC) issue of the power system. Weighting coefficients are set for the generators, HESSs and EVs, respectively, to show their different abilities to regulate the power system. A fuzzy logic-based sliding mode control approach is designed to ensure the stable performance of the LFC power system integrated with HESSs and EVs. The improvement of the proposed method is the application of the linear matrix inequality (LMI) toolbox in fuzzy controller design, which solves the limitations and uncertainties caused by trial-error or experience in common fuzzy controllers. There is no general form for the membership function of the fuzzy control. This paper presents a design approach for the membership function based on the calculation results of LMI. Simulations are tested on an IEEE 39-bus system integrated with HESSs and EVs. The simulation results prove that the proposed method reduces the time required for the power system frequency to reach stability by approximately 8.8%, demonstrating the superiority and usability of the proposed approach.
The Integration of Additive Manufacturing into Industry 4.0 and Industry 5.0: A Bibliometric Analysis (Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges)
Authors: Dehghan Shayan , Sattarpanah Karganroudi Sasan , Echchakoui Saïd , Barka Noureddine
Published: January 2025

This bibliographic analysis explores the evolving landscape of additive manufacturing (AM) in the context of Industry 4.0 and the emerging paradigms of Industry 5.0. This research critically examines the key literature and scholarly works to clarify the evolution, challenges, and opportunities presented by integrating AM technologies with digital transformation and advanced industrial practices. The exploration begins by tracing the foundational concepts of Industry 4.0, emphasizing the role of cyber–physical systems, data analytics, and automation in reshaping manufacturing ecosystems. It then moves to the developments of Industry 5.0, focusing on human-centric approaches, collaborative robotics, and sustainable manufacturing strategies that extend beyond automation. The impact of AM technologies across various sectors, from aerospace and automotive industries to healthcare and consumer goods, is central to this analysis. This article synthesizes empirical studies, case analyses, and theoretical frameworks to discern the synergies, challenges, and prospects of integrating AM into Industry 4.0 and the evolving Industry 5.0. Through this bibliographic journey, readers gain insights into the transformative potential of AM as a catalyst for innovation, agility, and sustainability in the digital age. The findings underscore the need for interdisciplinary collaborations, policy frameworks, and technological advancements to harness AM’s full potential within Industry 4.0 and 5.0.
Study on the Electromigration Organization and Mechanical Properties of Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RE/Cu Solder Joints
Authors: Wang Yuming , Zhang Keke , Zhang Chao , Huo Fupeng , Gao Yijie
Published: January 2025

In this study, we designed and manufactured an ideal electromigration testing device for soldering joints to solve the reliability problems caused by temperature and current density changes in the electromigration processes of micro solder joints. We analyzed the effects of temperature and current density on the electromigration β-Sn (single-crystal β-Sn grain) of Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RE/Cu solder joints, the relationship between the grain orientation and interfacial IMC (intermetallic compound) growth of Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RE/Cu solder joints, and the mechanical properties of solder joints. The results showed that the angle θ between the c-axis of the β-Sn grain and the current direction for the Sn2.5Ag0.7Cu0.1RE/Cu solder joint gradually decreased to 8.2° when the temperature increased to 150 °C, which accelerated the diffusion of Cu atoms and Cu substrate dissolution. The recrystallization and grain growth of Cu6Sn5 (An intermetallic compound formed by the fusion of copper and tin in a ratio of six to five) grains in the anode region promoted electromigration polarity. Compared with the initial state, the shear strength decreased to 11 MPa, a decrease of 61.3%, the fracture position shifted from the top of the IMC at the cathode interface to the root of the IMC at the cathode interface, and the fracture mode changed from ductile fracture to brittle fracture. With an increase in the current density to 1.1 × 104 A/cm2, θ decreased to 3.2°. In addition, we observed the recrystallization of Cu6Sn5 grains in the anode region and an increase in the grain length and diameter to 6.8–31.9 μm, which further promoted electromigration polarity. Compared with the initial state, the shear strength decreased by 72.5% to 7.8 MPa, and the fracture position shifted from the top of the IMC at the cathode interface to the root of the IMC at the cathode interface. Additionally, the fracture mode changed from ductile to brittle fracture.
Effect of Feature Size on Defects, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Selective Laser Melted AlSi10Mg Lattice Structure
Authors: Peng Chengkuan , Qi Junfeng , Zhou Sheng , Yang Sanqiang , Tao Ran , Shao Heng , Li Weining
Published: January 2025

Selective laser melting lightweight lattice structures have broad application prospects in the aerospace field. Understanding the dependence of mechanical performance on feature size is crucial for structure design. This work optimized the process parameters based on large-size metal blocks (20 mm) and then fabricated submillimeter features with a size of 0.4~1.0 mm. The influence of feature size on the defects, microstructures, and mechanical properties was investigated. The results showed that the dimensional errors for all size features were above 15%. When matched with appropriate border offset, these features could be printed precisely. The densification of submillimeter features was more than 99%, demonstrating the applicability of the optimized process parameters for the fine features. The porosity and relative roughness decreased and tended to stabilize with increasing feature size. Due to having less defects, the thicker features exhibited better mechanical properties in terms of ultimate strength and elongation. After being processed with polishing treatment, the roughness was reduced below 1 μm and the tensile strength increased above 320 MPa. The elastic modulus, yield strength, and elongation were also significantly improved.
The Positive Regulatory Effect of DBT on Lipid Metabolism in Postpartum Dairy Cows
Authors: Zhou Zheng , Yong Kang , Luo Zhengzhong , Du Zhenlong , Zhou Tao , Li Xiaoping , Yao Xueping , Shen Liuhong , Yu Shumin , Huang Yixin , Cao Suizhong
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The transition from a non-lactating to a lactating state is a critical period for lipid metabolism in dairy cows. Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT), stimulating energy metabolism, ameliorates diseases related to lipid metabolism disorders and is expected to be an effective supplement for alleviating excessive lipid mobilisation in periparturient dairy cows. This study aimed to investigate the effects of supplemental DBT on serum biochemical indices, faecal microbial communities, and plasma metabolites in dairy cows. Methods: Thirty cows were randomly divided into three groups: H-DBT group, L-DBT group, and control group. DBT administration was started on the day of calving and continued once daily for seven days. Faecal and blood samples were collected on calving day, 7 days after calving, and 14 days after calving. The levels of serum biochemical indices were measured at three time points in the three groups using commercial kits. Cows in the H-DBT group and control group were selected for metabolome and 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing. Results: Our research shows that, in dairy cows 7 days postpartum, DBT significantly reduced serum 3-hydroxybutyric acid (BHB) concentrations and the number of cows with BHB concentrations ≥ 1 mmol/L. Additionally, DBT increased serum total cholesterol contents at both 7 and 14 days postpartum. Analysis of the microbiota community showed that DBT modulated the composition and structure of the hindgut microbiota. Metabolomic analysis revealed decreased plasma acetylcarnitine, 2-hydroxybutyric acid, and BHB levels 7 days postpartum, whereas the TCA cycle was enhanced. At 14 days postpartum, DBT altered the plasma bile acid profile, especially glycine-conjugated bile acids, including GCDCA, GUDCA, and GDCA. Correlation analyses showed that the relative abundances of Bacillus, Solibacillus, Dorea, and Romboutsia were strongly correlated with the differential metabolites, which is crucial for the beneficial effects of DBT. Conclusions: DBT improves energy status and lipid metabolism in postpartum dairy cows by modulating hindgut microbiota and serum lipid metabolites.
The Antimicrobial Effect of Thymol and Carvacrol in Combination with Organic Acids Against Foodborne Pathogens in Chicken and Beef Meat Fillets
Authors: Mantzourani Ioanna , Daoutidou Maria , Alexopoulos Athanasios
Published: January 2025

Bioactive compounds and organic acids are applied to a wide range of foods against different types of foodborne pathogens. In the present study, carvacrol and thymol (1000 mg/L) were applied in wine-based marinades, alone or in combination with them and in combination with tartaric acid, malic acid, ascorbic acid, citric acid, and acetic acid (in concentration 0.1% w/v), in chicken and beef fillets and their antimicrobial activity, antioxidant capacity, and pH were estimated during refrigerated storage. Likewise, their antimicrobial activity was recorded against Enterobacteriaceae, total mesophilic bacteria, yeasts/molds, and lactic acid bacteria. The outcome demonstrated that both meats kept under similar storage conditions (4 °C/9 days) exhibited lower microbial growth, particularly with Enterobacteriaceae, when treated with wine-based carvacrol—thymol marinades and may extend their shelf-life. This antimicrobial action was more pronounced in the beef samples. The total phenolic content (TPC) and the antioxidant activity of the applied marinades were determined using the Folin−Ciocalteau method and ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activity methods, respectively. The results revealed that marinades with thymol and/or carvacrol in combination with acetic or ascorbic acid had greater TPC and antioxidant activity. The pH values of the respective marinades applied to both chicken and beef fillets exhibited an upturn during storage. Consequently, these marinades, even at low concentrations, could be used as natural preservatives in meat products.
Effect of Manganese Oxide Mineralogy and Surface Mo Coverage on Mo Isotope Fractionation During the Adsorption Process
Authors: Okuyama Akihiro , Kashiwabara Teruhiko , Kurisu Minako , Takahashi Yoshio , Fukushi Keisuke
Published: January 2025

The large molybdenum (Mo) isotope fractionation from seawater is caused by the adsorption of Mo on manganese oxides. However, the effects of the manganese oxide mineralogy (crystal structure) and surface Mo coverage on Mo isotope fractionation have not been investigated. In this study, the isotope fractionation of Mo by adsorption on synthetic todorokite, birnessite, and δMnO2 was investigated under a wide range of surface Mo coverages. The Mo isotope fractionation changed from Δ98/95Mo = 2.18 ± 0.05‰ to 2.61 ± 0.06‰ for todorokite; from 1.25 ± 0.05‰ to 2.10 ± 0.05‰ for birnessite; and from 2.19 ± 0.07‰ to 2.73 ± 0.08‰ for δMnO2. The Mo isotope fractionations of the three manganese oxides were negatively correlated with surface coverage normalized to the specific surface area. The independence of the obtained correlation of the manganese oxide species indicates that the Mo isotope fractionation depends on the surface coverage but not on the mineralogy of the manganese oxides. The experimentally observed Mo isotope fractionation (<2.7‰) in manganese oxides generally underestimates the isotope fractionation in natural ferromanganese oxides (~3‰). According to the dependency of the Mo isotope fractionation on the surface coverage, the underestimation relative to previous experimental studies can be attributed to the lower Mo surface coverage of natural ferromanganese oxides.
Quantitative Analysis of Yield Stress and Its Evolution in Fiber-Reinforced Cemented Paste Backfill
Authors: Hu Shili , Qiu Jingping , Zhang Qingsong , Guo Zhenbang , Liu Chen
Published: January 2025

Fiber-reinforced cemented paste backfill (FR-CPB) has attracted considerable attention in modern mining applications due to its superior mechanical properties and adaptability. Despite its potential, understanding its rheological behavior remains limited, largely because of the absence of quantitative methods for assessing fiber packing behavior within CPB. This study develops a rheology-based approach to determine the maximum packing fraction of polypropylene fibers in fresh CPB, revealing that shorter fibers (3 mm) achieve a maximum packing fraction of 0.661, significantly higher than longer fibers (12 mm) with 0.534. Building on these findings, a quantitative model for the static yield stress of FR-CPB was developed, showing that under a high fiber content (0.9%) and with longer fibers (12 mm), the yield stress reached 274.34 kPa, a 40% increase compared to shorter fibers. Additionally, the study modeled the time-dependent evolution of yield stress, achieving a prediction accuracy with a correlation coefficient of 0.92. These advancements enable the optimization of FR-CPB composition, which can reduce material usage, enhance pipeline transport efficiency, and improve backfill stability in underground voids. By minimizing the risk of structural failure and optimizing resource allocation, this research provides a theoretical foundation for safer and more cost-effective mining operations.
Anticonvulsant Effects of Synthetic N-(3-Methoxybenzyl)oleamide and N-(3-Methoxybenzyl)linoleamide Macamides: An In Silico and In Vivo Study
Authors: Vera-López Karin Jannet , Aguilar-Pineda Jorge Alberto , Moscoso-Palacios Rodrigo Martín , Davila-Del-Carpio Gonzalo , Manrique-Murillo José Luis , Gómez Badhin , González-Melchor Minerva , Nieto-Montesinos Rita
Published: January 2025

Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that affects nearly 50 million people worldwide. Experimental evidence suggests that epileptic neurons are linked to the endocannabinoid system and that inhibition of the FAAH enzyme could have neuroprotective effects by increasing the levels of endogenous endocannabinoid anandamide. In this context, the use of macamides as therapeutic agents in neurological diseases has increased in recent years. With a similar structure to anandamide, several theories point to the FAAH–macamide interaction as a possible cause of FAAH enzymatic inhibition. In this work, we used in silico and in vivo techniques to analyze the potential therapeutic effect of three synthetic macamides in the treatment of epilepsy: N-3-methoxybenzyl-oleamide (3-MBO), N-3-methoxybenzyl-linoleamide (3-MBL), and N-3-methoxybenzyl-linolenamide (3-MBN). In the first stage, an in silico analysis was conducted to explore the energetic affinity of these macamides with rFAAH and their potential inhibitory effect. MD simulations, molecular docking, and MM/PBSA calculations were used for these purposes. Based on our results, we selected the two best macamides and performed an in vivo study to analyze their therapeutic effect in male Sprague Dawley rat models. Rats were subjected to an in vivo induction of epileptic status by the intraperitoneal injection of pilocarpine and analyzed according to the Racine scale. In silico results showed an energetic affinity of three macamides and a possible “plugging” effect of the membrane access channel to the active site as a potential cause of FAAH inhibition. On the other hand, the in vivo results showed an anticonvulsant effect of both macamides, with 3-MBL being the most active, resulting in a higher survival probability in the rats. This work represents one of the first studies on the use of macamides for the treatment of epilepsy.