bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Potential of Polyphenols Derived from Satureja montana (Lamiaceae) in Prevention and Treatment of Various Mental Disorders, Including Dementia
Authors: Tancheva Lyubka , Dragomanova Stela , Abarova Silviya , Grigorova Valya B. , Gavazova Valentina , Stanciu Dana , Tzonev Svetlin , Kalfin Reni
Published: February 2025

Satureja montana (SM) is recognized as one of the most pharmacologically significant members of the extensive Lamiaceae family, native to the Bal-kan region. Historically, this plant has been utilized as a flavorful spice, particularly in traditional Bulgarian cuisine. Furthermore, it is well established that mental health is influenced by the type and quality of dietary intake. Results: Ethnopharmacological studies highlight the potential of SM to affect various chronic conditions, such as depression and anxiety. The plant is characterized by a diverse array of secondary metabolites that exhibit a wide range of biological activities, including antioxidant, anti-diabetic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic, antibacterial, antiviral, and an-tifungal properties. Notably, two of its active phenolic compounds, rosmarinic acid and carvacrol, demonstrate significant anxiolytic and anti-depressive effects. This review will examine the potential of SM to enhance mental health through its abundant phenolic constituents. Recent literature suggests their ability in addressing Alzheimer's type dementia. There is a strong correlation between depression, anxiety, and cognitive decline, including dementia. Given that Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a complex disorder, it necessitates multi-targeted therapeutic approaches for both prevention and treatment. Conclusions: SM emerges as a promising candidate for the prevention and management of various mental health disorders, including dementia.
A Reconfigurable 1x2 Photonic Logic Gate Controlled by an Externally Induced Metasurface
Authors: Fantoni Alessandro , Di Giamberardino Paolo
Published: February 2025

This work reports the design of a 1x2 photonic logic gate controlled by an electrically controlled metasurface, induced by a rectangular array of points where the refractive index is locally changed through the application of a external bias. The device is simulated by BPM and FDTD algorithms and the structure under evaluation is an amorphous silicon 1x2 MMI, joined to an arrayed MOS structure Al/SiNx/a-Si:H/ITO to be used in active-matrix pixel-fashion to control the output of the gate. MMI couplers, based on self-imaging multimode waveguides, are very compact integrated optical components which can perform many different splitting and recombining functions. A simulation approach, based on the beam propagation algorithm, has been used to produce a large dataset of simulations for a MMI structure under different activation map of the MOS pixels. This dateset has been used for training and testing of a machine learning algorithm for classification of the MMI configuration in terms of binary digital output for a 1x2 logical gate. Also, a statistical analysis has been produced, targeting the definition of the most incident activated pixel for each logic gate operation. An optimal configuration is proposed and applied to demonstrate the operation of a 4-bit shift register. This proof of concept paves the way to a more complex device class, supporting the recent advances in programmable photonic integrated circuits.
The Integration Model of Kano Model and IPGA -- Application of Mutual Information
Authors: Lin Shu-Ping , Tsai Ming-Chun
Published: February 2025

Service quality research has traditionally focused either on identifying Kano two-dimensional quality categories or detecting service quality deficiencies. However, integrating these perspectives remains a challenge due to the Kano model's nonlinear characteristics and the Importance-Performance and Gap Analysis (IPGA) model's linear approach. This study proposes the Kano-IPGA (KIPGA) model, incorporating Mutual Information (MI) to bridge the gap between these two models. The KIPGA model first employs moderated regression analysis to classify service attributes into Kano’s quality categories. MI is then used to calculate relative importance (RI), while relative performance (RP) is determined using the original IPGA approach. The results are mapped into the KIPGA strategic matrix, categorizing service attributes into eight management strategies. An empirical analysis of Taiwan’s online insurance systems demonstrates the model’s effectiveness in simultaneously identifying Kano categories and prioritizing service quality improvements. The findings reveal that Critical Improvement and Enhanced Improvement regions require immediate attention. The proposed KIPGA model offers a systematic approach for service quality management, providing decision-makers with a structured framework to allocate resources effectively and enhance customer satisfaction. This study contributes to service quality research by offering an integrated model that accounts for both linear and nonlinear quality assessment perspectives.
Transport Mechanisms and Pollutant Dynamics Influencing PM10 Levels at a Densely Urbanized and Industrialized Region near Naples, South Italy: A Residence Time Analysis
Authors: Giarra Antonella , Riccio Angelo , Chianese Elena , Annetta Marco , Toscanesi Maria , Trifuoggi Marco
Published: February 2025

This study explores the transport mechanisms and pollutant dynamics influencing particulate matter concentrations at the Pomigliano d’Arco (PdA) monitoring site, situated in a densely urbanized and industrialized region near Naples, Southern Italy, where daily PM10 averages consistently exceed EU thresholds. Exploiting an innovative residence time analysis, based on backward trajectory analysis with the HYSPLIT model, we investigated air mass histories from 2018 to 2023 to identify predominant pollutant transport pathways and their temporal dynamics. Seven distinct airflow clusters were identified, with the most frequent originating from the western and northeastern directions, influenced by local circulations and long-range transport from the central Mediterranean and Northern Africa. Seasonal variations revealed elevated PM10 levels during winter months, attributed to increased residential heating and temperature inversions, as well as summer peaks linked to Saharan dust transport and secondary aerosol formation. The residence time analysis highlighted regions within the central Mediterranean and Northern Africa as significant contributors to high PM10 concentrations at PdA, emphasizing the role of both local emissions and transboundary pollution. These findings provide critical insights for policymakers and air quality managers to develop targeted mitigation strategies aimed at reducing PM pollution in urban and industrialized areas, thereby enhancing public health and environmental sustainability.
Improving ToM Capabilities of LLMs in Applied Domains
Authors: Galitsky Boris A.
Published: February 2025

Large language models (LLMs) have demonstrated impressive capabilities across a variety of tasks, but they often fall short in areas requiring nuanced theory of mind (ToM) reasoning. These limitations, including weak state tracking and an inability to infer mental states, hinder their application in domains demanding robust cognitive reasoning. In this work, we address these challenges by presenting three key contributions. First, we propose a novel formalism for modeling mental worlds that effectively mitigates the reasoning gaps observed in LLMs, providing a structured framework to support more robust inference. Second, we algorithmically enhance LLM performance in a specific ToM subdomain by combining fine-tuning with targeted simulations, enabling models to overcome domain-specific reasoning limitations. Finally, we develop a comprehensive methodology to generate complex, high-quality training data tailored to improve ToM reasoning in LLMs. This approach addresses the scarcity of suitable datasets by synthesizing scenarios that explicitly require ToM capabilities, facilitating more effective model training. Together, these contributions represent a significant step toward equipping LLMs with stronger cognitive reasoning abilities and advancing their applicability in socially and cognitively complex tasks.
The Influence of Aspiration Pressure, Follicle Flushing Method and Needle Rotation During Single-Operator Opu Technique on Oocyte Recovery and Embryo Production in the Mare
Authors: Cuervo-Arango Juan , Sala-Ayala Laura , Márquez-Moya Adrián , Martínez-Boví Rebeca
Published: February 2025

The objectives of this study were to determine the effect of two aspiration pressures (75 vs 150 mmHg), the follicle flushing method (injection pump controlled by a foot pedal vs. a plastic syringe) and the twisting of the OPU needle on oocyte recovery and in vitro embryo production. A total of 104 warmblood sport mares belonging to a commercial OPU-ICSI program were used in a randomized clinical trial split in three experiments. In Experiment 1, mares were aspirated using either a high aspiration pressure (flow rate of 1.33 mL/sec; n=18) or low aspiration pressure (0.75 mL/sec; n=18); In Experiment 2, follicles were flushed either using a manual method (plastic syringe, n=18) or an automatic method (injection pump controlled by a foot pedal, n=18); and in Experiment 3, the follicles were aspirated by scraping of follicle wall with needle rotation (needle twisting, n=16) or without rotating the needle (control, n=16). In all experiments the same OPU operator and technician searching oocytes were used, and the experimental design was a randomized clinical trial. The overall mean oocyte recovery rate of the study was 54.2±17.1%, and the mean number of embryos per OPU-ICSI session was 1.9±1.6. The oocyte recovery rate was not influenced by any of the parameters investigated (P>0.05). However, the high aspiration pressure (150 mmHg) tended to yield oocytes with lower maturation (51.6%; P=0.09) and blastocyst rate (20.6%; P=0.08) following IVM and ICSI respectively, compared with the low aspiration group (64.4% MII rate and 31.4% blastocyst rate). In conclusion, there is no advantage of increasing the aspiration pressure to increase oocyte recovery. Furthermore, when a single operator performs the OPU (holding ovary and handling needle simultaneously), needle rotation to scrape the follicle wall does not improve oocyte recovery.
From Voluntary to Value: Stakeholder-Driven Mechanisms for Carbon Neutrality in China's Tea Industry
Authors: Jiao Jia , Dai ChenFeng , Su MiJu , Fan XiaoYue , Yu LuTing , Wang YingFeng
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the stakeholder-driven mechanisms enabling China's tea industry's voluntary transition toward carbon neutrality. Based on the analysis of 11,358 research papers retrieved from the China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI) database, published between 2001 and 2024, and supported by government funding sources, with a focus on carbon neutrality, carbon sink, carbon peaking, carbon storage, and carbon emissions, combined with policy analysis and value chain mapping, we identify key transformation pathways.The findings reveal:(1) Government and scholars play a dominant role in driving the low-carbon transition through policy and technological innovation.(2) Full-value-chain enterprises possess a significant advantage in coordinating technology and equipment upgrades across upstream and downstream segments, enhancing carbon reduction efficiency.(3) Carbon-emitting enterprises face market pressures and struggle to balance economic and environmental objectives.(4) While the tea industry’s capacity for internal carbon balance is limited, it can partially offset external carbon emissions in sectors like forestry.The study provides theoretical insights and policy recommendations to support the green transformation of China's tea industry, offering a reference for low-carbon development in other agricultural sectors.
Mapping of Superficial Circumflex Iliac Artery Flap Using Two Non-Invasive Methods in Obese Patient – Case Report
Authors: Septrina Rani , Lesmana Ronny , Putra Akbar I.S. , Abdullah Rizky , Rudiman Reno
Published: February 2025

Background: Superficial circumflex iliac artery flap (SCIA flap) has become popular for reconstructive lymphedema procedures. However, in obese patients, elevation of this flap is difficult. Methods: In this report, we present a 72-year-old woman with lymphedema who underwent lymphatic system transfer (LYST) procedure. Results: Mapping of superficial perforator was done with FLIR ONE thermal camera. To ensure superficial vein was also harvested, we incorporate vein viewer in our design. Both tools were also use intraoperatively. Conclusions: STBI and vein viewer can be a good combination in design and harvesting SCIA flap for LYST procedure in patient with obesity.
Clinical Efficacies of Adiponectin-Stimulating Peptide on UV-Induced Skin Damages
Authors: Kim Yongwoo , Yoon Seokjeong , Kim Sungwoo , Kim Yeonjae , Jeong Sekyoo , Kim Hyun-jung
Published: February 2025

Several studies have suggested that adiponectin is an anti-aging molecule based on its potential involvement of adipose tissue in skin aging. In this study, we investigated the anti-photoaging efficacies of an adiponectin expression-stimulating peptide derivative in in vitro and ex vivo human skin explant models. A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was performed to confirm the clinical efficacies. UV-induced decrease in adiponectin expression and increase in inflammatory cytokines were prevented by the test peptide. Mitigation of cellular senescence and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) expression has also been observed in ex vivo human skin. Restoration of filaggrin, loricrin, and claudin-1 protein expression was observed. A clinical study further confirmed that the restoration of UVB-induced skin damage, represented by increased skin redness and trans-epidermal water loss, was accelerated by the use of test peptide-containing products. These results suggest that targeting adiponectin may be a plausible strategy for the development of anti-aging ingredients.
Sustainable Drug Delivery Systems with Biodegradable Innovations for Targeted and Efficient Therapy
Authors: Ashutosh Sengar
Published: February 2025

Development of drug delivery systems has introduced environmentally friendly and degradable technology due to the advent of targeted, effective, and sustainable therapies. Recent advances on biodegradable polymers, nanotechnology-based smart carriers, and AI-based personalized medicine are being presented here and are all setting the platform for the next-generation drug delivery system. Use of biodegradable material reduces environmental burden but increases drug stability, bioavailability, and controlled release. Nanotechnology has revolutionized site-specific drug delivery with responsive drug delivery systems delivering drugs at desired locations, reducing toxicity and maximizing therapeutic efficacy. Natural and plant molecules are becoming more commonly used as green drug excipients and also improving biocompatibility and less synthetic waste. In addition, advances in AI-based drug design and precision medicine are allowing therapy to be personalized to the patient, improving treatment efficacy with reduced side effects. In antibiotic resistance management, novel nanotechnology-based drugs and drug delivery systems offer enhanced bacterial targeting and enhanced drug retention to overcome the top clinical challenges. Green and biodegradable drug delivery will be at the forefront of future pharmaceutical science with AI, nanotechnology, and green excipients being the pioneers. In this review, emphasis is placed on the future of such novel technologies to re-define drug delivery with patient safety and environmental sustainability at its core.
Biological Barrier Models-on-Chip: An Innovative Tool for Studying Diseases and Discovering New Drug Therapies
Authors: Caragnano Giusi , Monteduro Anna Grazia , Rizzato Silvia , Giannelli Gianluigi , Maruccio Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

The exploration of alternatives to the use of animal models and cell cultures has culminated in the creation of organ-on-a-chip systems in which organs in physio-pathological conditions and their reactions to the presence of external stimuli are simulated. In addition, they support the recreation of tissue interfaces such as tissue-air, tissue-liquid and tissue-tissue, which are very similar to those present in vivo, even through the presence of biomechanical stimuli. In this way they are best suited to mimic biological barriers, such as the skin, placenta, blood-brain barrier and others, which are characterized by tissue interface and their functioning is important to ensure the homeostasis of the organism. This review shows the different biological membranes that we can simulate within an organ-on-chip, also using induced pluripotent stem cells to act in the direction of personalized medicine. Different methods that can be used to detect barrier formation, including the integration of electrodes for real-time monitoring, are also explained, highlighting advantages and challenges.
Comparative Mutational Analysis and the Glycosylation Patterns of a Peruvian Isolated Avian Influenza a Virus H5N1: Exploring Possible Viral Spillover Events Within One Health Approach
Authors: Landazabal-Castillo Sandra , Alva-Alvarez Lucero , Suarez-Agüero Dilan , Mamani-Zapana Enrique , Mayta-Huatuco Egma
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: The emergence of H5N1 Influenza A viruses clade 2.3.3.4b since 2020, have caused the mortality of thousands of birds/mammals worldwide, through evolu-tionary changes have been associated with acquired mutations and posttranslational modifications. (2) Methods: This study aimed to compare the mutational profile of H5N1 avian Influenza virus isolated from a Peruvian natural reserve, with recent data from other related international studies made in human and different species of domestic and wild birds and mammals. Briefly, the near complete protein sequences of Influenza virus coming from a Calidris alba were analyzed in a multisegmented level, altogether with 55 samples collected between 2022-2024 in different countries. Moreover, the glycosylation patterns were also predicted in silico. (3) Results: A total of 603 amino acid changes were found among H5N1 viruses analyzed, underscoring the detection of critical mutations HA:143T, HA:156A, HA:208K, NA: 71S, NP:52H, PA:336M, PA:36T, PA:85A/N, PB1-F2:66S, PB2:199S, PB2:292V, PB2:559T, as well as PA:86I, PA:432I, PA:558L, HA:492D, NA:70D, NS1-83P, PB1:515A, PA-X:57Q, PB1-F2:22E, NS1-21Q, NEP:67G, among others, considered of importance under One Health perspective. Similarly, changes in the N-linked glycosylation sites (NLGs) predicted in both HA and NA proteins were found, highlighting the loss/acquisition or changes in some NLGs sites such as 209NNTN, 100 NPTT, 302NSSM (HA) and 70NNTN, 68NISS, 50NGSV (NA). (4) Conclu-sions: This study provides our understanding about the evolution of current Influenza A viruses H5N1 HPAIV circulating globally. These findings outline the importance of sur-veillance updating mutational profiles and glycosylation patterns of these highly evolved virus.
Purification and Inhibitor Screening of the Full-Length SARS-CoV-2 Nucleocapsid Protein
Authors: Chen Chen , Zhang Zhengfu , Zheng Qiao , Zhou Yingshun , Zhang Shujun
Published: February 2025

Since the end of 2020, the SARS-CoV-2 strain has undergone several mutations, and new variants continue to emerge. The immune escape ability of the mutants has enhanced, showing robust transmissibility. The neutralizing ability of the neutralizing antibodies produced during previous infections decreased in some mutants. This poses a severe challenge to the preventive and therapeutic effectiveness of vaccines and antibody drugs. Nucleocapsid protein, one of the main structural proteins of the coronavirus, plays an important role in the life cycle of the novel coronavirus and has proven to be one of the key targets for drug development. The first key step in drug development is to obtain pure nucleocapsid proteins. However, as nucleocapsid proteins have a nucleic acid binding function and can automatically undergo liquid–liquid phase separation and agglomerate, the purification of full-length nucleocapsids is extremely challenging. In this study, a set of easy-to-operate processes for the purification of nucleocapsid protein was developed. Finally, a pure full-length nucleocapsid protein without nucleic acid contamination was obtained. Subsequently, we also targeted the nucleic acid binding domain of the nucleocapsid protein and screened for potential SARS-CoV-2 inhibitors using virtual screening and biolayer interferometry (BLI) technology. Finally, a small molecule inhibitor, Light Green SF (KD = 19.9 µM), which can bind to nucleocapsid protein, was identified. In the future, we will continue to conduct more in-depth research and attempt to develop drugs that possess a good inhibitory effect on the current novel coronavirus mutants.
Method and System to Heart Rate Estimation Using Linear Prediction Filtering
Authors: Souza Vitor O. T. , Silva Fabrício G. S. , Araújo José Mário , Lima Jaimilton dos Santos
Published: February 2025

Cardiovascular diseases are one of the major problems of modern society. In addition to reducing people’s quality of life, bringing high costs to the health system, and loss of economic productivity, they are the leading cause of death in the world. Early diagnosis and treatment are the best actions to minimize the damage and costs caused by them. For this, developing techniques and technologies that have better accuracy in the analysis of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals is necessary. This work presents a method and system for heart rate estimation using linear prediction filtering. The system design centers on an ESP32 microprocessor module and an AD8232 ECG signal conditioning module. The implementation of the LPC algorithm for determining heart rate with real-time processing was validated with a Tektronix AFG1022 function generator that produces ECG signals and obtains measurements with accuracy above 98.8667%, showing performance similar to works presented in the literature.
Understanding the Sustainable Hydrogen Generation Potential for the Region of Bavaria, Germany via Bio Waste Processing using Thermo-Chemical Conversion Technology
Authors: Prabhu Shashank Deepak
Published: February 2025

Future decarbonization targets demand higher penetration of renewable energy (RE) sources into the system. However, challenges such as uneven spatial and temporal distribution of various RE source’s potentials for green electricity (GE) generation, demand alternative ways to store and later utilize the generated energy. In addition to that, sustainable development goals (SDG), highlight the need for responsible use of resources with increased recycling and reduction in corresponding waste generation while ensuring access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all. In this paper, an attempt is given to address both the issues of biodegradable waste (BW) processing and sustainable hydrogen (SH) production through it. Thermo-chemical conversion technology (TCC) and in that, especially ’Thermo catalytic reforming’ (TCR®) technology has been explored as an option to provide viable solution. An added advantage of decentralized hydrogen production can be envisioned here which can also contribute to regional energy security to some degree. To analyze the concept, Bavarian region in Germany along with open source data for the bio waste from two main sources, namely domestic household and sewage sludge (SS) has been considered. Based on that, corresponding regional hydrogen demand coverage potential has been analysed.
Procalcitonin as a Diagnostic Biomarker for Bacterial Gastroenteritis: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Cho Hyunseok , Lee Jung Ho , Park Sung Chul , Lee Sung Joon , Youk Hee-Jeong , Park Jin Myung , Park Jin Myung , Kim Tae Suk , Kim Ji Hyun , Youk Hee-Jeong , Lee Sang Hoon
Published: February 2025

Background/Aim: Bacterial and viral gastroenteritis present with overlapping symptoms, including vomiting, diarrhea, and abdominal pain. Stool tests have been used to differentiate between them; however, stool cultures are time-consuming and stool polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests are expensive. The role of the clinical value of procalcitonin (PCT) as a diagnostic marker of bacterial gastroenteritis remains to be investigated. This study evaluated the diagnostic value of PCT for the early diagnosis of bacterial gastroenteritis. Methods: The medical records of patients diagnosed with gastroenteritis by the emergency department with positive stool PCR results confirming the diagnosis between January 1, 2020, and July 31, 2024, were retrospectively reviewed. Demographic characteristics and laboratory findings, including the PCT and C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, were analyzed. The area under the curve (AUC) for the diagnosis of bacterial gastroenteritis was assessed to determine the diagnostic potential of PCT. Results: Among the 1,882 cases identified, 1,435 met the inclusion criteria. CRP exhibited superior diagnostic performance for diagnosing bacterial gastroenteritis in general, with an AUC of 0.848 (95% CI, 0.815–0.881; p<0.001). However, in patients aged >17 years with fever (≥38°C), PCT was the only significant inflammatory marker, and the AUC of PCT was 0.767 (95% CI: 0.603–0.932; p=0.019). Conclusions: CRP is effective in predicting bacterial gastroenteritis; however, PCT may serve as a valuable biomarker for the early diagnosis of febrile adult patients. Further large-scale studies must be conducted to validate these results and improve diagnostic strategies.
Aging in Iran: Challenges and Future Policy Directions
Authors: Koosha Maryam
Published: February 2025

Iran is undergoing a demographic transition, with projections indicating that older adults will account for over 30% of the population by 2050. This rapid aging trend, driven by declining fertility rates and increased life expectancy, presents significant challenges, including financial strain on pension systems, social isolation due to changes in family structures, and growing healthcare demands driven by chronic conditions. Although there are existing policies aimed at addressing aging, the fragmentation and lack of coordination between these policies hinder effective implementation and comprehensive support. This study employs a sociological framework, incorporating world-systems theory and network theory, to analyze the current state of aging-related policies in Iran. The findings reveal critical gaps in policy integration, governance, and resource allocation. Drawing on global best practices, including lessons from Japan, Scandinavian countries, and Singapore, the study proposes a unified policy approach that aligns with international standards while considering the socio-cultural and economic context of Iran. Key recommendations include the establishment of a centralized body to oversee aging initiatives, the development of age-friendly urban spaces, the promotion of community-based care models, and the integration of technology to enhance healthcare and social participation. This study aims to provide a comprehensive roadmap for Iran to address the challenges of an aging population and ensure the well-being of older adults in a rapidly changing society.
Recurrence Quantification Analysis for Scene Change Detection and Foreground/Background Segmentation in Videos
Authors: Kyprianidi Theodora , Doutsi Effrosyni , Tsakalides Panagiotis
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the mathematical framework of Recurrence Quantification Analysis (RQA) for dynamic video processing, exploring its applications in two primary tasks: scene change detection and adaptive foreground/background segmentation. Originally developed for time series analysis, RQA is employed to identify recurrent patterns within video streams, offering a computationally efficient and robust alternative to conventional deep learning methods. Our approach is evaluated on three annotated video datasets: Autoshot, RAI, and BBC Planet Earth, where it demonstrates effectiveness in detecting abrupt scene changes, achieving results comparable to state-of-the-art techniques. We also apply RQA to foreground/background segmentation using the UCF101 and DAVIS datasets, where it accurately distinguishes between foreground motion and static background regions. Through the examination of heatmaps based on the embedding dimension and Recurrence Plots (RPs), we show that RQA provides precise segmentation, with RPs offering clearer delineation of foreground objects. Our findings indicate that RQA is a promising, flexible, and computationally efficient approach to video analysis, with potential applications across various domains requiring dynamic video processing.
Visual Representations of Happiness in Portuguese Adolescents
Authors: Freire Teresa , Ramos Andreia , Raposo Beatriz , Hartel Jenna
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Happiness is a main topic in psychological research, as a catalyst for transformative change, capable of inspiring growth and well-being. This study aims to identify and understand the themes that compose visual representations of happiness in adolescents, while using an innovative qualitative methodology centered on visual research. Methods: Applying the ‘draw-and-write’ technique, Portuguese adolescents were asked to ‘Draw happiness,’ generating a visual data set of 330 drawings, coined hSquares. Results: By order of prevalence, the thematic analysis identified eight key themes: ‘people,’ ‘hobbies,’ ‘love,’ ‘smile,’ ‘sports,’ ‘basic needs,’ ‘inner harmony,’ and ‘human rights and equality.’ The findings highlight the significance of social contexts, such as family and peer relationships, as central to adolescents' happiness, while also emphasizing the importance of self-selected activities. Visual representations associated with basic needs and human rights emerged as novel contributions to the literature. Differences emerged by age, with younger adolescents often depicting single themes, whereas older adolescents integrated multiple themes in their drawings. Conclusions: This study provides a visual complement to the rich textual conversation about happiness and demonstrates the potential of visual methodologies in psychological research.
The Meninges as CNS Interfaces and the Roles of Meningeal Macrophages
Authors: Hiraki Chihiro , Tsuruta Fuminori
Published: February 2025

The brain, the most important component of the central nervous system (CNS), is protected by multiple intricate barriers that strictly regulate the entry of abnormal proteins and cells. Thus, the brain is often described as an organ with immune privilege. Within the brain parenchyma, microglia are thought to be the primary resident immune cells, with no other immune-related cells present under normal conditions. On the other hand, recent studies in the meningeal border regions have revealed the presence of meningeal-specific lymphatic vessels and channels that connect the skull bone marrow. Importantly, resident macrophage populations specific to these boundary regions, known as CNS-associated macrophages (CAMs) or border-associated macrophages (BAMs), have been identified. In contrast to the brain parenchyma, the meninges contain many immune-related structures and cells, making them an important immune interface at the CNS border. CAMs serve a dual function, triggering immune responses under pathological conditions and supporting the maintenance of brain homeostasis. This review focuses on the immune architecture of the meninges and the roles of CAMs, summarizing and discussing recent advances in this field.
COVID-19 Mortality Trends over the First Five Years of the Pandemic in the US
Authors: Mattiuzzi Camilla , Lippi Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This retrospective observational study investigated coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)-related mortality trends in the US throughout the pandemic. Methods: We performed a retrospective, descriptive analysis between 2020 to 2024 using data from the National Center for Health Statistics. Results: Total COVID-19 deaths rose by 19% from 2020 to 2021, followed by a significant decline in subsequent years, with average reduction factor of 0.44. Mortality rates remained higher in males compared to females, with gender disparity between 52-62%. Age-specific crude mortality rates increased with advancing age, with higher mortality observed in older populations. However, crude death rates significantly declined across all ages except for the 1–4 years group, which experienced a 33% increase. The majority of fatalities occurred in medical facilities (63–80%), but this proportion gradually decreased over time, while the percentage of deaths occurring at home nearly doubled from 2020 to 2024 (6% to 11%). Conclusions: The initial mortality peak for COVID-19 was followed by a substantial decline, likely influenced by widespread availability of vaccines, improvements in clinical management and emergence of less virulent variants. The persistent gender and age disparities, alongside the fluctuating distribution of places of death, offer insights for refining healthcare policies and optimizing resource allocation in this and other future pandemics.
Radiofrequency Echographic Multispectrometry in Diagnosing Osteoporosis in Patients with Spondylarthritis
Authors: Badea Ionut-Andrei , Bojincă Mihai , Bojincă Violeta , Milicescu Mihaela , Ghițescu Gabriel , Negoiță Casandra , Ilina Andreea-Ruxandra , Vulcan Mădălina-Ștefania , Aramă Ștefan Sorin
Published: February 2025

Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by reduced bone strength and increased fracture risk, frequently coexists with spondylarthritis (SpA), an inflammatory rheumatic disease. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), the gold standard for diagnosing osteoporosis, faces limitations in SpA patients due to spinal deformities and calcifications. Radiofrequency Echographic Multispectrometry (REMS), a novel ultrasound-based diagnostic technology, overcomes many of these challenges by assessing bone quality and microarchitecture without interference from structural changes. This article explores the underlying mechanisms linking SpA and osteoporosis, reviews the utility of REMS in this context, evaluates the existing evidence supporting its clinical application, and provides additional findings promoting the use of REMS in individuals with SpA.
A Structural Analysis of AI Implementation Challenges in Healthcare
Authors: Angelina Q , Begum Khadija , Kim Hee-Cheol , Tripathy Sushanta , Singhal Deepak , Singh Saranjit
Published: February 2025

The incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into the healthcare system has been revolutionized, promising keyadvancements in diagnosis, treatment, patient care, administrative tasks, and operational efficiency.The implementation of artificial intelligence into the healthcare system has been very transformational, productive, and hopeful, with the potential to revolutionize diagnosis, treatment, patient care, administrative work, and operational efficiency. Using an in-depth analysis of the extensive amount of literature on artificial intelligence and how it could help the medical industry, this study identified the eleven barriers and challenges. An interpretative structural modelling (ISM) has been used as a methodological approach to find out the relationship between the extracted challenges and their dependency and driving powers. It resulted in a five-tiered model with introduction of innovative and new generation tools topping the chart as the most dependent challenge. Similarly Insufficient Data, Data Acquisition, Data Misuse and Missing Compassion being the key drivers. Thereby, during the implementation of artificial intelligence in medicine, there challenges should be considered.
The Effect of Self-Regulation on The Need for Psychological Help Through Happiness, Resilience, Problem Solving, Self-Efficacy, And Adjustment: A Parallel Mediation Study in Adolescent Groups
Authors: Akeren İhsan , Çelik Eyüp , Yayla İbrahim Erdoğan , Özgöl Mustafa
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Adolescence is a developmental period in which the risk of mental problems is high. Failure to resolve the problems encountered during this period may result in the need for psychological help. Based on the literature review, this study aimed to examine self-regulation, which has the potential to reduce adolescents' need for psychological help, and the mediation of happiness, resilience, problem solving, self-efficacy, and adjustment through this skill.
Methods: In the cross-sectional correlational survey design study, 1013 adolescents (542 girls, 471 boys, mean age: 15.04±1.75 years) aged 12-19 years and studying in middle and high school in Bayburt, Turkey were reached. Seven different questionnaires, valid and reliable in adolescent groups, were used to measure the study variables.
Results: Correlation results showed that all predictors were positively correlated with each other and negatively correlated with the dependent variable, the need for psychological help. After testing the assumptions, the results of the parallel mediation analysis showed that happiness, problem solving, self-efficacy, and adjustment full mediated the effect of self-regulation on the need for psychological help. Another finding is that resilience is not a predictor of psychological distress.
Conclusion: The results are important because they provide insight for those working in the field of adolescent mental health in terms of understanding the factors through which self-regulation reduces the need for psychological help.
“You Have to Make It Normal, That’s What We Do”: Construction Managers’ Experiences of Help-Offering
Authors: Roche Emilie , O’Donnell Shane , Richardson Noel
Published: February 2025

Men are at a higher risk for suicide when compared to women, with those in male-dominated industries, such as construction, being particularly vulnerable. These industries are typically characterised as ‘macho’ environments – endorsing traditional masculine norms, higher levels of mental health stigma, and delayed help-seeking. Settings-based approaches to health promotion identify the workplace as a promising setting for engaging men around their mental health. Although managers play a key role in this process by connecting workers in distress with mental health supports, research exploring their experiences of this is limited. Five focus groups were conducted with managers in the construction industry (n=33) to explore their perspectives on supporting and offering help to workers in distress. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse the data. Findings led to three key themes: (1) Creating the right environment with subthemes focused on fostering an open culture around mental health on-site and overcoming systemic challenges; (2) Navigating the practice of help-offering; and (3) The right tools for the job. Findings highlight the need for manager training, tailored to the construction industry, as part of a multi-faceted approach to help-offering within the industry.
Production Performance of Squash (Cucurbita moschata D.) with Different Biodegradable Mulches
Authors: Ríos Mesa Domingo , Santos Coello Belarmino
Published: February 2025

The use of non-biodegradable plastic mulching materials has become more and more widespread on the island of Tenerife (Canary Islands, Spain). At the end of their useful life, they become a source of pollution when disposed of improperly or require a subsequent removal and recovery process by waste managers that increase costs, especially in island conditions. The use of degradable mulch may be a solution, although there is practically no experience of its use in horticultural crops under the agro-climatic and soil conditions of Tenerife. In this trial, the productive behaviour of a crop of squash cv. ‘Largo de Nápoles’ was studied using two papers (Agropaper and Mimgreen), two biodegradable plastics (Mater-Bi and Cylplast Bio), a commercial polyethylene and a control without mulch. No significant differences were observed between the biodegradable materials and polyethylene in commercial or total yield or in the average weight of harvested squashes. The costs of biodegradable plastics were lower than the total cost of using polyethylene. Material costs and logistics are especially important in relatively remote island areas, such as Tenerife.
Postcapitalist Prosumerism: Exploring Simultaneous Practices of Consumption and Production in Community Manufacturing and Community Energy
Authors: Magnani Natalia , Smith Thomas , Sforzi Jacopo
Published: February 2025

This paper contributes to the literature on simultaneous processes of production and consumption – otherwise known as ‘prosumerism’ – in the context of sustainability transformations. We argue that prominent work on prosumerism in recent years has exhibited ‘capitalocentrism’ and that addressing this bias can bring alternative economic strategies to light. We proceed to define ‘postcapitalist prosumerism’, outline its potential importance in thinking about eco-social transformation, and identify a number of tentative underlying characteristics, including re-embedding and reterritorialising socio-economic activities, politicising technology, promoting participatory and collaborative governance. Empirical highlights are drawn from two recent projects on prosumer practices related to Community Renewable Energy (CRE) and Community Manufacturing (CM), respectively. We conclude that postcapitalist prosumerism is a heuristic concept which can be useful to explore the transformative potential of sustainable social innovation.
A Data-Driven Study of Mosquito Patterns in Chicago (2007-2024) with Machine Learning Techniques
Authors: Potamitis Ilyas
Published: February 2025

We apply data analytics to the publicly available and recently updated Chicago 2007-2024 Mosquito Database. In this database, 195 traps have been deployed in Chicago, Illinois, USA, from 2007 to 2024. Every year, from late May to early October, public health workers in Chicago set up mosquito traps scattered across the city. These traps collect mosquitoes, which are then partitioned into batches of fifty specimens. Each batch has been assessed using Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) for the presence of West Nile virus before the end of each week. The database records include the number of mosquitoes, the mosquito species, geographical information, and whether West Nile virus is present in each cohort. In its first part, this work explores the application of mosquito data analytics to the manually collected data, focusing on the potential to identify trends, find the outbreaks, and localize hotspots to support vector control strategies. In its second part, we investigate at what extent a virus-positive batch can be predicted using the rest of the variables recorded in the database, showing that an AUC score of approximately 81% can be achieved on a 2-year held out subset without including weather data.
The Burning Pain Transcriptome in the Mouse Primary Somatosensory Cortex
Authors: Erdei Virág , Mészár Zoltán , Varga Angelika
Published: February 2025

Our previous research has demonstrated that the spinal cord undergoes epigenetic and molecular alterations following non-severe burn injury. However, the primary somatosensory cortex (S1), crucial for pain perception, remains unexplored in this context. Here, we investigated transcriptomic alterations in the S1 cortex of mice subjected to burn injury or formalin treatment, utilizing RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) one hour after injury. RNA-seq identified 1116 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in burn injury and 136 DEGs in inflammatory pain. Notably, 82.4% of DEGs in burn injury and 32.4% in inflammatory pain were downregulated. A limited number of overlapping DEGs were found, suggesting significant differences in cortical processing of pain with different origins. Gene Ontology Enrichment Analysis revealed that upregulated genes in burn injury were associated with mitochondrial functions and gene expression, whereas downregulated genes were related to axon guidance, synaptic plasticity, and neurotransmission. KEGG pathway analysis highlighted the role of retrograde endocannabinoid signaling in the response to burn injury. Formalin treatment mainly impacted metabolic processes, particularly protein digestion and purine metabolism. These findings demonstrate that transcriptomic remodeling in the S1 cortex is dependent on the sensory modality and suggest that the retrograde endocannabinoid network is activated during the acute pain response following burn injury.
Evolutionary Pathway of the Genetic Code deduced based on Coevolution Theory
Authors: Ikehara Kenji
Published: February 2025

The coevolution theory suggests that origin and evolution of the genetic code proceed along with development of synthetic pathway of amino acids. The coevolution theory is undoubtedly a correct idea, because the genetic code could not evolve, if synthetic pathways of new amino acids were not invented and the new amino acids did not accumulate at a large amount in the cells. On the other hand, studies on metabolic pathways have progressed and information about metabolic pathways obtained thus far has been stored in KEGG PATHWAY Database. Then, amino acid metabolic pathways were analyzed in detail in order to answer to the following questions. (1) The genetic code originated from what type of genetic code? (2) The genetic code has reached to the universal genetic code, passing through what type of intermediate genetic code, SNS code or RNY code? From the results, it could be reconfirmed that the genetic code originated from the GNC primeval genetic code and evolved to the universal genetic code passing through SNS genetic code. Lastly, limits and future prospects of the coevolution theory are also discussed.
Chemical Space Exploration and Machine Learningbased Screening of PDE7A Inhibitors
Authors: Li Yuze , Wang Zhe , Ma Shengyao , Tang Xiaowen , Zhang Han-Ting
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Phosphodiesterase 7 (PDE7), a member of the PDE superfamily, selectively catalyzes the hydrolysis of cyclic adenosine 3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP), thereby regulating the intracellular levels of this second messenger and influencing various physiological functions and processes. There are two subtypes of PDE7, PDE7A and PDE7B, which are encoded by distinct genes. PDE7 inhibitors have been shown to exert therapeutic potentials in neurological and respiratory diseases. However, FDA-approved drugs based on PDE7A inhibitor are still absent, highlighting the need for novel compounds to advance PDE7A inhibitor development. Methods: To address this urgent and important issue, we conducted a comprehensive chemical informatics analysis of compounds with potential PDE7A inhibition using a curated database to elucidate the chemical characteristics of highly active PDE7A inhibitors. Specific substructures that significantly enhance the activity of PDE7A inhibitors, including benzenesulfonamido, acylamino, and phenoxyl, were identified by interpretable machine learning analysis. Subsequently, a machine learning model employing the Random Forest-Morgan pattern was constructed for qualitative and quantitative prediction of PDE7A inhibitors. Results: As a result, 6 compounds with potential PDE7A inhibitory activity were screened out from the SPECS compound library. These identified compounds exhibited favorable molecular properties and potent binding affinities to the target protein, holding a promise as the candidates for further exploration in the development of potent PDE7A inhibitors. Conclusions: Results in the present study would advance the exploration of innovative PDE7A inhibitors and provide valuable insights for future endeavors in the discovery of novel PDE inhibitors.