bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VotTomNet: Voting-based tomato disease diagnosis with transfer learning
Authors: Joshi-Bag Shradha , Patil Wani V. , Chavate Shrikant
Published: February 2025

The research presents an advanced automation system, termed VotTomNet, designed for diagnosing tomato leaf diseases using transfer learning, and soft and hard voting ensemble techniques. By leveraging six pre-trained deep learning convolutional neural networks—VGG16, InceptionNet, ResNet, MobileNet, EfficientNet, and DenseNet—the system achieved an impressive accuracy of 99.2%. These models were meticulously fine-tuned to diagnose multiple types of tomato diseases with heightened precision. The integration of a soft and hard voting mechanism further enhanced the overall diagnostic accuracy by combining the strengths of these diverse models into a powerful ensemble. The findings underscore the robustness, reliability, and effectiveness of this ensemble technique, marking a significant advancement in precision agriculture and crop health assessment. By outperforming traditional methods, this approach offers a more practical and efficient solution for large-scale agricultural applications, enabling comprehensive crop management and improved yield. In conclusion, this research lays a strong foundation for future innovations in automated plant disease diagnosis and agricultural technology. Its contributions have the potential to revolutionize disease management, reduce crop losses, and ultimately enhance food security on a global scale.
Integration of natural language processing methods and machine learning model for malicious webpage detection based on web contents
Authors: Liaquathali Shaheetha , Kadirvelu Vadivazhagan
Published: February 2025

Malicious actors continually exploit vulnerabilities in web systems to distribute malware, launch phishing attacks, steal sensitive information, and perpetrate various forms of cybercrime. Traditional signature-based methods for detecting malicious webpages often struggle to keep pace with the rapid evolution of malware and cyber threats. As a result, there is a growing demand for more advanced and proactive approaches that can effectively identify malicious web content based on its characteristics and behavior. Detection based on web content is crucial because malicious webpages can be designed to mimic legitimate ones, making them difficult to identify through traditional means. By analyzing the content of webpages, it becomes possible to uncover patterns, anomalies, and malicious intent that may not be evident from surface-level inspection. The proposed approach integrates a pretrained Word2Vec model with seven distinct machine learning classifiers to enhance malicious webpage detection. Initially, web contents (documents) are encoded using the Word2Vec model, followed by the computation of average Word2Vec embeddings for each document. Subsequently, each classifier is trained on the extracted average Word2Vec embedding features. The results demonstrate that the Word2Vec model significantly enhances the detection accuracy, achieving an accuracy of 94.8% and an F1-score of 94.9% with the random forest classifier, and an accuracy of 94.6% and an F1-score of 94.7% with the extreme gradient boosting classifier.
Performance comparison of optical flow and background subtraction and discrete wavelet transform methods for moving objects
Authors: Sharma Monika , Kaswan Kuldeep Singh , Yadav Dileep Kumar
Published: February 2025

Self-driving cars and other autonomous vehicles rely on systems that can recognize and follow objects. The ways help people make safe decisions and navigate by showing things like people, cars, obstacles, and traffic lights. Computer vision algorithms encompass both object detection and tracking. Different methods are specifically developed for picture or video analysis not only to identify items within the visual content but also to accurately determine their precise locations. This can operate independently as an algorithm or as a constituent of an item-tracking system. Object tracking algorithms can be used to follow objects over video frames, providing a contrasting approach. The research article focuses on the mathematical model simulation of optical flow, background subtraction, and discrete wavelet transform (DWT) methods for moving objects. The performance evaluation of the methods is done based on simulation response time, accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity doe several images in different environments. The DWT has shown optimal behavior in terms of the response time of 0.27 seconds, accuracy of 95.34 %, selectivity of 95.96 %, and specificity of 94.68 %.
Examining Racial Dyads and the Odds of Conviction for Sexual Assault: Evidence From a Southern District Attorney’s Office
Authors: P. Comer Benjamin , Burns Ronald , Diamond Brie , Bowen Kendra N.
Published: February 2025

Research consistently shows attrition rates for sexual assault cases remain high. Previous research has focused on law enforcement and case processing of these crimes, but little is known about convictions. This study utilized prosecutorial case files from a large county district attorney’s office in a southern state to examine differences across racial dyads on the relative risk of conviction for sexual assault. The findings generally demonstrate that race and ethnicity remain significant extralegal variables associated with criminal case processing, specifically convictions. Our results show important differences across inter- and intra-racial dyads, and regarding other legal and extralegal factors, on this outcome. Implications of the findings and suggestions for addressing the concerns are provided.
How Do Family-Friendly Policies Impact Marital Satisfaction: A Mediation Analysis of Korean Working Women
Authors: Park Gum-Ryeong , Song Kyungeun , Kim Jinho
Published: February 2025

This study examines the relationship between family-friendly policies and marital satisfaction and whether couple bonding activities mediate this association. This study used data from the Korean Longitudinal Survey of Women & Families (KLoWF), a nationally representative study of Korean women, and estimated fixed-effects models examining whether family-friendly policies are associated with marital satisfaction. Sobel mediation analyses were conducted to investigate whether couple bonding activities mediate the association. Family-friendly workplace policies were positively associated with marital satisfaction (β = 0.531), after accounting for individual-level confounders. Family-friendly workplace policies were also associated with more engagement in cultural activities and physical activities with a partner (βs = 0.042 and 0.068, respectively). Mediation analyses showed that couple bonding activities explained 16.7% of the association between family-friendly workplace policies and marital satisfaction. Family-friendly policies may enhance the quality of working women’s marital life through an increase in engagement in couple bonding activities.
Exploring visual search performance in preschool children with Cerebral Visual Impairment: A modified approach
Authors: Hokken Marinke J , Verboom Silke , Geldof Christiaan JA , Escudero Paola , Kooiker Marlou JG , Pel Johan JM
Published: February 2025

Visual search difficulties are common in children with cerebral visual impairment (CVI), due to higher-order visual selective attention (VSA) deficits. However, little is known about children with CVI below 6 years. This international multi-centre study explored VSA through search performance and efficiency in preschool children aged 3–5 years with CVI ( n = 24), or a CVI-risk ( n = 20) compared with neurotypical children ( n = 47). Search performance on the paper–pencil NEPSY Visual Attention task was measured by accuracy, commission errors, and completion time. Search efficiency was assessed by reconstructing the cancellation path to obtain inter-target distances, intersections, and cluster visits. Children with CVI demonstrated significantly lower accuracy, longer completion times, greater inter-target distances, and more revisits to clusters of targets compared with both CVI-risk and neurotypical children. We conclude that by using a modified approach of a paper–pencil search task, first signs of global and local VSA deficits can be detected, offering clinical insights.
Enhancing mechanical, degradation, and tribological properties of biocomposites via treatment and alumina content
Authors: Sengottaiyan Saravanakumar , Subbarayan Sathiyamurthy , Natarajan Ravikumar , Gurunathan Vishnupriya
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study is to investigate the effects of alumina filler content and NaOH-treated Roselle fibers on mechanical, thermal, biodegradation, and tribological properties while identifying optimal conditions for eco-friendly applications. Compression molding was employed to fabricate composites, and the results revealed significant improvements in performance with chemical treatment and optimal filler content. Mechanical testing showed that the 10% alumina composite exhibited the highest tensile, flexural, and impact strengths due to enhanced interfacial bonding and uniform filler dispersion. Thermal analysis demonstrated improved stability, with the 10% alumina composite offering the best thermal degradation resistance. Biodegradation studies indicated slower weight loss for alumina-filled composites, highlighting their environmental durability. Tribological evaluations revealed that the 10% alumina composite achieved the lowest specific wear rate (SWR) and coefficient of friction (COF), supported by SEM analysis showing minimal wear debris and surface damage. Optimization using a simulated annealing algorithm identified ideal conditions (sliding velocity: 6.6 m/s, sliding distance: 500.33 m, and alumina content: 10.62%) that minimized SWR (13.28 × 10⁻⁵ mm³/Nm) and COF (0.278). These findings provide valuable insights into Roselle fiber composites for sustainable applications in the automotive and packaging industries.
Hyperferritinemia is Associated with Thrombocytopenia and Increased Mortality Risk in Adult Sepsis Patients: A Retrospective Study of Two Observational Cohorts
Authors: Li Dengzhe , Li Xinqiang , Wen Bo , Li Boling , Wang Yan , Zong Yuan , Lyu Jun
Published: February 2025

Objective: Markedly elevated serum ferritin serves as a laboratory marker of macrophage activation syndrome and is associated with increased mortality in sepsis, where hyperinflammation, coagulopathy, and immune dysregulation interplay. Although laboratory studies suggest a relationship between hyperferritinemia and coagulopathy in sepsis, clinical evidence remains limited. This study aims to assess mortality risk and the interplay between hyperferritinemia (ferritin ≥ 500 ng/mL) and thrombocytopenia in two sequential cohorts of adult patients with sepsis. Patients: Patients with sepsis (≥18 years old) admitted to adult ICUs at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center between 2001 and 2008, and 2008 to 2019, with at least one ferritin value recorded within a 48-h window preceding or following the initial ICU admission. Results: Among 2339 eligible patients with hyperferritinemic sepsis, 921(39.4%) were categorized into the high ferritin (HF) group (ferritin ≥ 500 ng/mL). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant association between the HF group and increased in-hospital mortality (p < .01). Survival analysis revealed significantly lower survival probabilities at 28 and 90 days in the HF group compared to the low ferritin group. The interaction between the HF group and thrombocytopenia revealed a statistically significant association with in-hospital mortality. Furthermore, causal mediation analysis showed that platelet count mediated 12.6% (95% CI: 0.063-0.27; p < .001) of the effect of elevated ferritin levels on in-hospital mortality. Conclusions: Hyperferritinemia is associated with an increased mortality risk in adult septic patients. Thrombocytopenia not only interacts with hyperferritinemia but also serves as a mediating factor in its impact on mortality.
Clinical relevance of plasma ADAM-17 with cognition and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Chen Zu-Qi , Wang Meng-Ting , Tan Cheng-Rong , Huang Shan , Zhou Fa-Ying , Shen Ying-Ying , Zeng Gui-Hua , Fan Dong-Yu , Wang Yan-Jiang
Published: February 2025

Background

A disintegrin and metalloproteinase 17 (ADAM-17) has multiple pathophysiological functions in Alzheimer's disease (AD). However, the clinical relevance of ADAM-17 in AD is not clear yet.

Objective

This study aims to investigate the levels of circulating ADAM-17 and their association with AD.

Methods

This cross-sectional study recruited 40 normal cognition (NC) participants and 36 AD patients. Plasma ADAM-17 and biomarkers of neurodegeneration were determined. The association of plasma ADAM-17 with cognitive functions and biomarkers of neurodegeneration was analyzed.

Results

Plasma ADAM-17 levels were elevated in AD patients in comparison with NC subjects. Plasma ADAM-17 was positively associated with Clinical Dementia Rating (CDR) scores, but negatively associated with the Mini-Mental State Examination scores and Montreal Cognitive Assessment scores. Plasma ADAM-17 levels were positively associated with the levels of Aβ40, Aβ42, and p-Tau181.

Conclusions

These findings suggest a link between ADAM-17 and the pathogenesis of AD from a clinical perspective.
Digital screening for cognitive decline in the Spanish language for older adults
Authors: Lelo de Larrea-Mancera E Sebastian , Flores-Medina Yvonne , Seitz Aaron R , Alcalá-Lozano Ruth
Published: February 2025

Background

Recent technological advances in digital assessment of auditory and cognitive function may be used to circumvent the costs associated to screening for cognitive decline in the general population. Pre-clinical cognitive screening could have a transformative impact for preventive care in our increasingly old world population. However, advances in digital assessment need to be adapted for Spanish-speaking populations as innovation occurs mainly in English.

Objective

This study explores the potential of a novel screening battery for cognitive decline that utilizes digital tests of cognitive and auditory function adapted to the Spanish language.

Methods

Participants were evaluated on standard clinical scales and questionnaires, and on a digital battery of auditory and cognitive tests with potential clinical value to screen cognitive decline.

Results

We report the ability to detect minimal cognitive impairment (MCI; 3/10 tests) and dementia (10/10 tests) of each digital test and the full battery. We further show concurrent validity for cognitive screening with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) and describe the shared variance across tests in the battery. Lastly, we show multiple regression models predicted with medium sensitivity (57%) and high specificity (97%) the dementia cases, and with high sensitivity (93%) but low specificity (31%) the MCI cases.

Conclusions

Overall, this study demonstrates discriminatory value and concurrent validity to screen for cognitive decline in older adults using open-access digital auditory and cognitive tests in the Spanish language. Follow-up studies with larger and more diverse samples will be instrumental in achieving cognitive screening procedures for the general population.
Higher disease activity of inflammatory bowel disease predisposes to Clostridioides difficile infection
Authors: Vitikainen Krista , Kase Merit , Meriranta Leo , Molander Pauliina , af Björkesten Clas-Göran , Anttila Veli-Jukka , Arkkila Perttu
Published: February 2025

Background:

Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) is a clinical challenge associated with poor outcomes in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

Objectives:

To identify clinical risk factors for CDI and its recurrence among patients with IBD.

Design:

Case–control cohort study of IBD patients with and without episodes of CDI.

Methods:

A case–control study of 279 IBD patients with CDI. Medical history and IBD-related symptoms 3 months preceding a toxin-positive CDI were recorded and compared with age- and sex-matched IBD patients without CDI. Outcomes of CDI in IBD patients were recorded 2–6 months after CDI.

Results:

Based on clinical symptoms and fecal calprotectin levels, IBD is active before CDI. Recently diagnosed IBD seemed to increase the risk for CDI. Corticosteroid usage frequently preceded CDI episodes. Advanced therapies were not associated with CDI. Antibiotic intake was not registered before CDI in 30% of the episodes. Recurrent CDI (rCDI) occurred in 30% (84/279) of IBD-CDI patients and 67% (90/135) of those episodes were registered within 90 days from the preceding episode. Most (79%) rCDI patients had ulcerative colitis (UC). CDI could complicate underlying IBD by increasing the need for escalation in IBD-related medical therapy and leading to hospitalization but it did not seem to increase the risk of colectomy.

Conclusion:

The major risk factors associated with CDI in IBD patients were IBD activity before infection, UC and colonic Crohn’s disease, short duration of IBD, corticosteroid usage, and hospitalization. Patients with active IBD and a shorter disease duration may benefit from more frequent follow-ups in the early stages, as they appear to be at higher risk of developing CDI.
Incidence rate of and risk factors for glomerulonephritis in patients with axial spondyloarthritis: a nationwide population-based study
Authors: Hwang Subin , Kim Ye-Jee , Ahn Soo Min , Koo Bon San
Published: February 2025

Background:

Although extramusculoskeletal manifestations, such as uveitis and psoriasis, in patients with axial spondyloarthritis (SpA) are well-documented, studies on the occurrence of glomerulonephritis in this population are scarce.

Objectives:

This study aimed to assess the incidence rate and risk factors for glomerulonephritis in patients with axial SpA using a nationwide population-based cohort in Korea.

Design:

Nationwide population-based study.

Methods:

This study included patients diagnosed with axial SpA between 2016 and 2019 from Korea’s National Health Insurance Database. Patients with a diagnosis of preexisting kidney disease prior to their axial SpA diagnosis and those diagnosed with glomerulonephritis within 1 year of their axial SpA diagnosis were excluded. For the remaining patients, the incidence rates of glomerulonephritis and Cox proportional hazard ratios were analyzed.

Results:

Among the 11,796 patients, 58 had glomerulonephritis, resulting in an incidence rate of 1.82 per 1000 person-years. After adjusting for age and sex, the hazard ratio for patients with a Charlson Comorbidity Index score of ⩾1 was 2.03 (confidence interval (CI), 1.14–3.63; p = 0.017). When adjusting for age, sex, and comorbidities, the hazard ratio for patients with hypertension was 2.37 (CI, 1.20–4.69; p = 0.014). Among the 58 patients, 4 (6.9%) were diagnosed with glomerulonephritis, as confirmed via kidney biopsy.

Conclusion:

The incidence rate of glomerulonephritis in Korean patients with axial SpA is lower than that in patients with other musculoskeletal manifestations. In addition, the presence of comorbidities, including hypertension, is a significant risk factor for glomerulonephritis in patients with axial SpA. Despite the low occurrence, careful monitoring for glomerulonephritis in patients with axial SpA is essential.
The Relationship Between the Percent Coefficient of Variation of Sensor Glucose Levels and the Risk of Severe Hypoglycemia or Non-Severe Hypoglycemia in Patients With Type 1 Diabetes: Post Hoc Analysis of the ISCHIA Study
Authors: Murata Takashi , Matsuhisa Munehide , Kuroda Akio , Toyoda Masao , Hirota Yushi , Ogura Masahito , Suzuki Shota , Kato Ken , Tone Atsuhito , Matoba Yuka , Meguro Shu , Miura Junnosuke , Nishimura Kunihiro , Shimada Akira , Hosoda Kiminori , Sakane Naoki ,   The ISCHIA Study Group
Published: February 2025

Background:

The relationship between the percent coefficient of variation (%CV) and the risk of severe hypoglycemia (SH) or non-severe hypoglycemia (NSH) in patients with type 1 diabetes (T1D) remains to be elucidated.

Materials and Methods:

The Effect of Intermittent-Scanning Continuous Glucose Monitoring to Glycemic Control Including Hypoglycemia and Quality of Life of Patients with Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (ISCHIA) study was a crossover, randomized, controlled trial for hypoglycemia prevention in patients with T1D using multiple daily injections (MDIs). Blinded continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data of 93 patients obtained during the Control period (84 days) were used for the post hoc analysis. The receiver operating characteristics (ROC) curves were analyzed to determine the discrimination thresholds of %CV corresponding to the low blood glucose index (LBGI) > 5 and LBGI ≥ 2.5, and the occurrence of SH.

Results:

The %CV corresponding to LBGI > 5 and LBGI ≥ 2.5 was 42.2% and 37.0%, respectively. The episodes of SH were observed in three patients, and the %CV corresponding to the occurrence of SH was 40.7%.

Conclusions:

The identification of the discrimination threshold of %CV associated with the risk of SH or NSH in patients with T1D is needed.
Physical activity among adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus in Jordan: a qualitative study
Authors: Momani Aaliyah , Al-Marzouqi Zalikha , Abu-Shhadeh Amani , Ajlouni Kamel , ALBashtawy Mohammed , Almomani Maysa H. , Jarrah Samiha , AlQahtani Shaikha Ali , Ababneh Anas
Published: February 2025

Background:

Type 2 diabetes mellitus is a growing epidemic condition that is expected to reach pandemic levels in the upcoming decades. Physical activity among individuals with type 2 diabetes is beneficial. A deeper understanding of physical activity among adults with type 2 diabetes in Jordan using a qualitative approach is needed.

Aim:

This study aimed at exploring physical activity among adults with type 2 diabetes in Jordan.

Design:

A constructivist grounded theory methodology guided this study.

Methods:

Data were collected using semi-structured and audio-recorded interviews and then analysed simultaneously using coding, constant comparative analysis and writing reflexive memos.

Findings:

Two themes emerged including ‘The Perception about Physical Activity’ and ‘Factors Influencing Adherence to Physical Activity’. The first theme included four sub-themes: physical activity definition; importance; duration and types. The second theme included five sub-themes: the belief that diet is superior to physical activity; ageing and presence of diabetes or comorbidities; job and family obligations; social support and weather.

Conclusion:

This study provided insights into patients’ perceptions and adherence to physical activity including facilitators and barriers. Clinicians and policymakers may consider the findings of this study to develop health promotion programmes and to suggest a suitable environment for individuals with type 2 diabetes to enhance their physical activity.
The Global Polycrisis and Health Inequalities
Authors: McNamara Courtney , Bambra Clare
Published: February 2025

In the current era of multiple, overlapping global crises, it is essential to consider the political economy of health within the broader framework of global interconnectedness. In this article, we employ the polycrisis concept to understand the impacts of the multifaceted, concurrent, and synergistic contemporary global crises on global health and health inequalities. A polycrisis occurs when crises in multiple diverse global systems become causally entangled, compounding their effects. Despite its potential relevance and analytical insights, the polycrisis concept has rarely been applied in public health research. This article fills that gap, and through reviewing the impacts of past economic, environmental, health, and political crises, we argue that the polycrisis is creating a complex web of challenges that are likely to amplify existing and future health inequalities. We conclude by discussing strategies to mitigate these impacts and suggest pathways for research to ensure that the future is not inevitably unequal.
Thyroid hormones and frailty in older adults: systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis
Authors: Chia Wen-Chun , Chen Yang-Ching , Xiu Shuang-ling , Wang Sen-Te
Published: February 2025

Objective

To investigate (1) whether the association of thyroid hormone with frailty risk is linear or nonlinear and (2) which range of thyroid hormones or thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) is more associated with a higher risk of frailty in older adults.

Design

Systematic review and dose–response meta-analysis.

Methods

Medical electronic databases were searched for cross-sectional or longitudinal studies, published from database inception to February 2022. We focused on the relationship between TSH and frailty. Data on TSH reference range, TSH exposure categories, sample size of each exposure category, and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for frailty with 95% confidence interval (CI) were extracted. In the dose–response meta-analysis, we set the OR for frailty as 1 at 0.3 mIU/L TSH.

Results

The systematic review included 10 studies, whereas the meta-analysis included 3 studies (n = 6388). TSH levels ranged from 0.3 to 4.8 mIU/L, and the dose–response meta-analysis revealed a significant J-shaped association (p = 0.0071). Frailty OR (95% CI) increased from 1.30 (1.06–1.59) for 2.7 mIU/L TSH to 2.06 (1.18–3.57) for 4.8 mIU/L TSH.

Conclusions

A significant nonlinear, J-shaped association was noted between TSH level and frailty. TSH levels within the upper half (2.7–4.8mIU/L) of reference range was noted to significantly higher risk of frailty; by contrast, those in the lower half (0.6–1.5 mIU/L) had a lower risk of frailty, though not significantly so.

Trail registration

This systematic review was registered with PROSPERO (registration number: CRD42022299214).
Characterizing co-purchased food products with soda, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables using loyalty card purchasing data in Montréal, Canada, 2015–2017
Authors: Mamiya Hiroshi , Crowell Kody , Mah Catherine L. , Quesnel-Vallée Amélie , Verma Aman , Buckeridge David L.
Published: February 2025

Background

Foods are not purchased in isolation but are normally co-purchased with other food products. The patterns of co-purchasing associations across a large number of food products have been rarely explored to date. Knowledge of such co-purchasing patterns will help evaluate nutrition interventions that might affect the purchasing of multiple food items while providing insights about food marketing activities that target multiple food items simultaneously.

Objective

To quantify the association of food products purchased with each of three food categories of public health importance: soda, fresh fruits and fresh vegetables using Association Rule Mining (ARM) followed by longitudinal regression analysis.

Methods

We obtained transaction data containing grocery purchasing baskets (lists of purchased products) collected from loyalty club members in a major supermarket chain between 2015 and 2017 in Montréal, Canada. There were 72 food groups in these data. ARM was applied to identify food categories co-purchased with soda, fresh fruits, and fresh vegetables. A subset of co-purchasing associations identified by ARM was further tested by confirmatory logistic regression models controlling for potential confounders of the associations and correlated purchasing patterns within shoppers.

Results

We analyzed 1,692,716 baskets. Salty snacks showed the strongest co-purchasing association with soda (Relative Risk [RR] = 2.07, 95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 2.06, 2.09). Sweet snacks/candies (RR = 1.73, 95%CI: 1.72–1.74) and juices/drinks (RR:1.71, 95%CI:1.71–1.73) also showed strong co-purchasing associations with soda. Fresh vegetables and fruits showed considerably different patterns of co-purchasing associations from those of soda, with pre-made salad and stir fry showing a strong association (RR = 3.78, 95% CI:3.74–3.82 for fresh vegetables and RR = 2.79, 95%CI:2.76–2.81 for fresh fruits). The longitudinal regression analysis confirmed these associations after adjustment for the confounders, although the associations were weaker in magnitude.

Conclusions

Quantifying the interdependence of food products within shopping baskets provides novel insights for developing nutrition surveillance and interventions targeting multiple food categories while motivating research to identify drivers of such co-purchasing. ARM is a useful analytical approach to identify such cross-food associations from retail transaction data when combined with confirmatory regression analysis to adjust for confounders of such associations.
Exploring the link between fat-soluble vitamins and aging-associated immune system status: a literature review
Authors: Schmieder Hendrik , Leischner Christian , Piotrowsky Alban , Marongiu Luigi , Venturelli Sascha , Burkard Markus
Published: February 2025

The importance of vitamin D for a well-functioning immune system is becoming increasingly evident. Nevertheless, the other fat-soluble vitamins A, E and K also seem to play a central role regarding the adequate function of immune cells and to counteract excessive immune reactions and inflammatory processes. However, recognizing hidden hunger, particularly micronutrient deficiencies in vulnerable groups like the elderly, is crucial because older adults often lack sufficient micronutrients for various reasons. This review summarizes the latest findings on the immune modulating functions of fat-soluble vitamins in a physiological and pathophysiological context, provides a graphical comparison of the Recommended Daily Allowances between Deutschland, Austria, Confoederatio Helvetica (D-A-CH; eng. GSA, Germany, Switzerland, Austria), Deutsche Gesellschaft für Ernährung (DGE; eng. German Nutrition Society) and National Institutes of Health (NIH) across all age groups and, in particular, addresses the question regarding the benefits of supplementation of the respective micronutrients for the aging population of industrialized nations to strengthen the immune system. The following review highlights the importance of fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K which play critical roles in maintaining immune system function and, in some cases, in preventing excessive immune activation. Therefore, a better understanding of the relevance of adequate blood levels and consequently potential supplementation strategies may contribute to the prevention and management of infectious diseases as well as better overall health of the elderly.
Longitudinal associations between family conflict, intergenerational transmission, and adolescents’ depressive symptoms: evidence from China Family Panel studies (2016–2020)
Authors: Jin Yu , Liu Jiayi , Li Pan , Hu Yunquan , Hong Xintian , Li Xiaoliang , Teng Yongyong , Huang Mingxing , Wang Yuanyuan
Published: February 2025

Background

Adolescent depression is increasing globally, and family conflict may contribute to its transmission across generations. However, longitudinal evidence on these dynamics remains sparse. This study examines the longitudinal associations between family conflict and adolescents’ and parents’ depressive symptoms from three waves of data.

Methods

Data from the 2016–2020 China Family Panel Studies (CFPS) were analyzed, including 1,772 adolescents (Mean age = 12.4, SD = 1.68 in 2016) and their parents. Family conflict was measured using three questions from adolescents, while depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiological Studies Depression Scale (CESD). Multiplelinear regression, latent growth models (LGM), and cross-lagged panel models (CLPM) were employed to examine longitudinal associations between family conflict and depressive symptoms.

Results

The results revealed that family conflict correlated with adolescents’ depressive symptoms (r = 0.580,p < 0.001). Adolescents’ depressive symptoms also exacerbated family conflict (β1 = 0.030, p < 0.05; β2 = 0.032, p < 0.01) across three waves, while family conflict had a limited contribution to parents’ depressive symptoms. Mothers’ depressive symptoms influenced adolescents’ depressive symptoms significantly (β = 0.043,p < 0.05), while adolescents’ depressive symptoms were transmitted to fathers’ depressive symptoms (β = 0.080,p < 0.01) between Wave 2 and Wave 3. Moreover, the mother’s education level negatively predicted adolescents’ depressive symptoms (β = -0.296,p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Family conflict plays a critical role in adolescents’ depressive symptoms and its intergenerational transmission. The findings underscore the pivotal role of family dynamics in mental health, especially in the development of adolescents’ depressive symptoms. Interventions aimed at reducing family conflict may help mitigate depressive symptoms across generations.
Tumour surface regularity predicts survival and benefit from gross total resection in IDH-wildtype glioblastoma patients
Authors: Lin Peng , Pang Jin-Shu , Lin Ya-Dan , Qin Qiong , Lv Jia-Yi , Zhou Gui-Qian , Tan Tian-Ming , Mo Wei-Jia , Chen Gang
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the ability of sphericity in glioblastomas (GBMs) for predicting overall survival (OS) and the survival benefit from gross tumour resection (GTR).

Methods

Preoperative MRI scans were retrospectively analysed in IDH-wildtype GBM patients from two datasets. After MRI preprocessing and tumour segmentation, tumour sphericity was calculated based on the tumour core region. The prognostic value of tumour surface regularity was evaluated via Kaplan–Meier (K-M) plots, univariate and multivariate Cox proportional hazards analyses. In different surface regularity subgroups, the OS benefit from GTR was evaluated via K-M plots and the restricted mean survival time (RMST).

Results

This study included 367 patients (median age, 62.0 years [IQR, 54.5–70.5 years]) in the discovery cohort and 475 patients (median age, 63.6 years [IQR, 56.2–71.3 years]) in the validation cohort. Sphericity was an independent predictor of OS in the discovery (p = 0.022, hazard ratio (HR) = 1.45, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.06–1.99) and validation groups (p = 0.007, HR = 1.38, 95% CI: 1.09–1.74) according to multivariate analysis. Age, extent of resection, and surface regularity composed a prognostic model that separated patients into subgroups with distinct prognoses. Patients in the surface-irregular subgroup benefited from GTR, but patients in the surface-regular subgroup did not in the discovery (p < 0.001 vs. p = 0.056) and validation datasets (p < 0.001 vs. p = 0.11).

Conclusions

The high surface regularity of IDH-wildtype GBM is significantly correlated with better OS and does not benefit substantially from GTR.

Critical relevance statement

The proposed imaging marker has the potential to increase the survival prediction efficacy for IDH-wildtype glioblastomas (GBMs), offering a valuable indicator for clinical decision-making.

Key Points

Sphericity is an independent prognostic factor in IDH-wildtype glioblastomas (GBMs). High sphericity in IDH-wildtype GBM is significantly correlated with better survival.

GBM patients with low sphericity could receive survival benefits from gross tumour resection.

Graphical Abstract
R-AI-diographers: a European survey on perceived impact of AI on professional identity, careers, and radiographers’ roles
Authors: Stogiannos Nikolaos , Walsh Gemma , Ohene-Botwe Benard , McHugh Kevin , Potts Ben , Tam Winnie , O’Sullivan Chris , Quinsten Anton Sheahan , Gibson Christopher , Gorga Rodrigo Garcia , Sipos David , Dybeli Elona , Zanardo Moreno , Sá dos Reis Cláudia , Mekis Nejc , Buissink Carst , England Andrew , Beardmore Charlotte , Cunha Altino , Goodall Amanda , John-Matthews Janice St , McEntee Mark , Kyratsis Yiannis , Malamateniou Christina
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Radiographers use advanced medical imaging and radiotherapy (MIRT) equipment. They are also a digitally mature and digitally resilient workforce in healthcare. Artificial intelligence is already changing their clinical practice and roles in data acquisition, post-processing, and workflow management. It is therefore vital to understand the impact of AI on the careers, roles and professional identity of radiographers, as key stakeholders of the digital transformation of healthcare within the medical imaging ecosystem.

Methods

A European radiographer survey, endorsed by the European Federation of Radiographer Societies (EFRS), was distributed online. It was piloted with twelve radiographers and translated into eight languages. Although this study included both qualitative and quantitative results, this paper emphasises the quantitative aspect.

Results

A total of 2206 European radiographers have responded from 37 different countries. Despite some concerns around workforce deskilling, future professional identity, and job prospects, participants showed overall optimistic views about the use of AI in healthcare. This was particularly strong for those with prior AI education (mean: 2.15 vs. 1.89; p-value: < 0.001), hands-on experience with AI (correlation: 0.047; p-value: 0.038), from countries with higher digital literacy (mean: 2.00 vs.1.93; p-value: 0.027) and a higher academic level of radiography education (mean: 3.28 vs. 3.15; p-value: 0.002). Men appeared slightly more enthused about the development of technological skills and women about the honing of patient-centred care skills. Finally, interprofessional collaboration was seen as essential not only for the seamless clinical integration of AI but also for supporting patient benefit.

Conclusion

While AI implementation advances, AI education needs to keep at pace to ensure acceptability, trust, and safe use of this technology by healthcare professionals, minimising their concerns around professional role changes and enabling them to see the opportunities of service transformation.

Critical relevance statement

This paper aims to map out the perceived impact of AI on the professional identity and careers of European radiographers.

Key Points

AI is impacting radiographers’ clinical practice and changing their professional identity.

Despite increasing AI awareness, AI education is still lacking across Europe.

AI education is key for AI acceptability and trust by radiographers, which facilitates AI implementation and service transformation.

Graphical Abstract
No increased drought-related mortality after thinning: a meta-analysis
Authors: Willig Julius , Schwarz Julia , Comeau Philip , Hartmann Henrik , Kohnle Ulrich , Espelta Josep Maria , Mäkinen Harri , Ogaya Roma , Peltoniemi Mikko , Penuelas Josep , Roth Brian , Ruiz-Peinado Ricardo , Ruge Florian , Bauhus Jürgen
Published: February 2025

Context

Forest scientists are challenged to identify and propose evidence-based silvicultural options to mitigate the impacts of drought events induced by climate change. For example, it has been suggested that thinning increases soil water availability for individual trees by reducing stand density and stand-level transpiration. Many studies have assessed the impact of thinning on stem growth and transpiration of individual trees during and after drought events. Often, growth increases were observed, but not consistently, and their impact on tree survival following drought has rarely been addressed.

Aims

We aimed to assess the effect of thinning on tree mortality, the ultimate indicator of tree resistance to soil water deficit induced by drought, with a focus on dominant trees.

Methods

We conducted a risk ratio meta-analysis on tree mortality before and after an extreme drought event with 32 thinning experiments from nine studies in Europe and North America.

Results

We showed that thinning reduced the overall mortality risk of trees. However, the lower mortality rate in thinned stands relative to unthinned stands in pre-drought periods was not further reduced during and after extreme drought events (p > 0.05). This may be due to the large heterogeneity and inconsistent reporting of mortality across the studies included in our analysis. Thinning did not exacerbate mortality among dominant trees.

Conclusion

Since thinning did not increase mortality, its application can still be recommended for many other management objectives such as maintaining tree species richness or lower disturbance risks from windthrow. We propose better documentation of thinning trials to improve the data base for systematic reviews.
Quantifying ento-literacy: development and validation of an international insect-focused attitude and knowledge survey instrument
Authors: Lucky Andrea , Janštová Vanda , Novotný Petr , Mourek Jan
Published: February 2025

Background

In an era of precipitous insect declines, effective entomology education is especially needed to support firsthand knowledge of nature. Understanding what students know and feel about insects is instrumental to teaching and curriculum development. This study describes the development and validation of a new survey instrument, EntoEdu, measuring ‘entomology literacy’, based on attitude and knowledge, in a cross-cultural context. For the survey validation we use data collected from students in Czechia (CZ), a country known for its entomophilia, and the United States of America (US) to demonstrate the utility of this survey and to address the questions: how do entomology attitude and knowledge differ across national affiliation and study domain, and how are entomology attitude and knowledge correlated in the context of these differences?

Results

Based on responses from 635 first-year college students, we demonstrate high reliability and evidence of validity of the EntoEdu instrument. Factor analysis supports five independent attitudinal categories within the instrument: Intention to Engage with Insects, Attitude toward Behavior, Control Belief, Hobby, and Disgust. In this study population, average attitude scores did not differ with nationality, whereas knowledge scores were higher in CZ than in the US. In both countries, attitude and knowledge scores were higher among biology students than those in other study domains, and attitude and knowledge were positively correlated.

Conclusions

The EntoEdu instrument, based on globally recognizable insect taxa, ecology, and behavior, has been developed for broad utility in assessing attitudes toward and knowledge of insects at the post-secondary level, with potential for use at both lower (K-12) and higher (advanced university) levels. The instrument is presented here in two language versions and can be translated into additional languages for comparison of results across test populations in additional countries. In our initial test population we find attitude and knowledge to be correlated, both of which are influenced by nationality, with Czechs more knowledgeable about insects than their US counterparts. We anticipate that this instrument will facilitate entomology assessment to help tailor biology education programs to students’ actual, rather than assumed, entomology knowledge and attitudes, and for tracking change over time.
Revisiting external auditory canal cholesteatoma (EACC) — diagnostic and therapeutic point of view
Authors: Bidkar Vijay , Khadeeja K.
Published: February 2025

Background

The external auditory canal cholesteatoma is a rare presentation as compared to squamosal otitis media. The overlapping presentation creates challenges in diagnosis and treatment of this condition. In this case series, we aim to provide a succinct overview delving into its etiology, clinical presentation, novel radiological diagnostic feature, and management strategies.

Case presentation

The case presentation unfolds with two instances of external auditory canal cholesteatoma in individuals aged 20 and 29, both presenting with otalgia and otorrhea. Clinical and oto-endoscopic evaluations, coupled with audiograms and radiographic studies presented. The high-resolution computed tomography features of the temporal bones of reduction in the thickness of tympanic bone are helpful for assessing disease severity and extent and may be used as the definite diagnostic tool.

Conclusion

Specific radiological changes of reduced thickness of tympanic bone described here are key to diagnosis. This presentation emphasizes the novel radiological feature in the diagnosis of external auditory canal cholesteatoma.
Azimuthal seismic dispersion analysis and inversion based on a frequency-dependent fractured model
Authors: Ba Jing , Huang Guangtan , Carcione José M. , Gei Davide
Published: February 2025

Wave velocity dispersion and attenuation due to wave-induced fluid flow are important properties for seismic exploration studies of fracture characterization and hydrocarbon identification. Existing seismic inversions are based primarily on an isotropic theory. However, both dispersion and anisotropy should also be considered together. Based on a fracture model describing attenuation, we introduce a frequency-dependent stiffness matrix for azimuthal dispersion analysis, where the dispersion gradient of fracture weakness is a novel fluid indicator. Then, a method of inverting the frequency-dependent amplitude changes with angle and azimuth is proposed to extract the fluid indicator from the seismic data. An inversion test on field data demonstrates the validity of the proposed method.
Εγκαθρίδρυση νέων προγνωστικών και προβλεπτικών δεικτών για τον καρκίνο του προστάτη
Authors: Στοκίδης Σάββας
Published: February 2025

Ο σημαντικός ρόλος του ανοσοποιητικού συστήματος στην ανάπτυξη και εξέλιξη του καρκίνου έχει αποδειχθεί. Οι ανοσολογικοί βιοδείκτες για την πρόγνωση και πρόβλεψη του καρκίνου του προστάτη (PCa), αναδεικνύονται ως βασικά εργαλεία ως προς τη θεραπεία, αξιολόγηση και παρακολούθησή του. Δεδομένης της ετερογένειας του PCa και της ποικιλομορφίας των θεραπευτικών επιλογών, πρόσφατα ξεκίνησαν εντατικές προσπάθειες για την εξατομικευμένη προσέγγιση της νόσου. Καθώς τα αλλήλια HLA είναι απαραίτητα για την αποτελεσματική απόκριση ενάντια του PCa, η έκφρασή τους θα μπορούσε να αποτελέσει προγνωστικό/προβλεπτικό βιοδείκτη. Μελέτες στο μελάνωμα και στον καρκίνο των ωοθηκών έδειξαν ότι η έκφραση του αλληλίου HLA-A*02 συσχετίζεται με φτωχή κλινική έκβαση. Αποτελέσματα από μία μελέτη μας, φάσης Ι που προηγήθηκε, έδειξαν ότι η έκφραση του αλληλίου HLA-A*24 μπορεί να συνδέεται με καλή κλινική εξέλιξη. Με βάση τα δεδομένα αυτά, αξιολογήσαμε την προγνωστική αξία της έκφρασης των δύο αυτών αλληλίων στον PCa. Αρχικά δείξαμε (σε μία μελέτη 56 ασθενών) ότι η έκφραση των αλληλίων HLA-A*02:01 και HLA-A*24:02 στον de novo μεταστατικό καρκίνο του προστάτη (mPCa), παίζει σημαντικό ρόλο στην εξέλιξη της νόσου. Οι ασθενείς που εκφράζουν το HLA-A*02:01 είχαν χειρότερα κλινικά αποτελέσματα σε σχέση με τους HLA-A*02:01- ασθενείς. Οι HLA-A*24:02+ ασθενείς σημείωσαν πιο αργή επιδείνωση σε ευνουχοάντοχο καρκίνο του προστάτη (CR) και είχαν μεγαλύτερη ολική επιβίωση (OS). Οι ομόζυγοι HLA-A*02:01+ ασθενείς επιδεινώθηκαν πολύ γρήγορα σε CR και είχαν πολύ μικρή OS. Μονοπαραγοντικές και πολυπαραγοντικές αναλύσεις πραγματοποιήθηκαν για τα δύο αλλήλια και επικύρωσαν τη σημαντική προγνωστική τους αξία ως προς τους χρόνους για CR και OS. Η παρουσία των αλληλίων HLA-A*02:01 και HLA-A*24:02 συσχετίζεται στατιστικώς σημαντικά και ανεξάρτητα με φτωχή και καλή κλινική έκβαση σε αυτό το είδος PCa, αντιστοίχως. Στη συνέχεια δείξαμε ότι και σε ασθενείς με εντοπισμένο PCa κατά τη διάγνωση οι εκφραστές του HLA-A*24:02 είχαν καλύτερο κλινικό αποτέλεσμα, ως προς την πρώιμη βιοχημική υποτροπή (early BCR), ενώ οι εκφραστές του HLA-A*02:01 είχαν χειρότερη κλινική πορεία. Πραγματοποιήσαμε, επίσης, συγκρίσεις μεταξύ του πληθυσμού της μελέτης (n=237) και σε φυσιολογικό πληθυσμό (n=612). Διαπιστώσαμε ότι δεν υπάρχει στατιστικά σημαντική διαφορά, ούτε στην συχνότητα των αλληλίων, ούτε στο ποσοστό των ατόμων που εκφράζουν τα αλλήλια. Τα δεδομένα της διδακτορικής διατριβής υποστηρίζουν ότι τα αλληλόμορφα HLA-A μπορούν να αποτελέσουν πολύτιμους προγνωστικούς/προβλεπτικούς βιοδείκτες για τον PCa, συμβάλλοντας στην κατάλληλη θεραπευτική προσέγγιση και παρακολούθηση των ασθενών με βάση τον κίνδυνο εξέλιξης της νόσου, με σκοπό την αποφυγή υπο-θεραπείας ή υπερ-θεραπείας τους.