bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research trends and hotspots evolution of artificial intelligence for cholangiocarcinoma over the past 10 years: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Wang Ke-xie , Li Yu-ting , Yang Sun-hu , Li Feng
Published: February 2025

Objective

To analyze the research hotspots and potential of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) through visualization.

Methods

A comprehensive search of publications on the application of AI in CCA from January 1, 2014, to December 31, 2023, within the Web of Science Core Collection, was conducted, and citation information was extracted. CiteSpace 6.2.R6 was used for the visualization analysis of citation information.

Results

A total of 736 publications were included in this study. Early research primarily focused on traditional treatment methods and care strategies for CCA, but since 2019, there has been a significant shift towards the development and optimization of AI algorithms and their application in early cancer diagnosis and treatment decision-making. China emerged as the country with the highest volume of publications, while Khon Kaen University in Thailand was the academic institution with the highest number of publications. A core group of authors involved in a dense network of international collaboration was identified. HEPATOLOGY was found to be the most influential journal in the field. The disciplinary development pattern in this domain exhibits the characteristic of multiple disciplines intersecting and integrating.

Conclusion

The current research hotspots primarily revolve around three directions: AI in the diagnosis and classification of CCA, AI in the preoperative assessment of cancer metastasis risk in CCA, and AI in the prediction of postoperative recurrence in CCA. The complementarity and interdependence among different AI applications will facilitate future applications of AI in the CCA field.
Creation of an innovative diagnostic framework for hepatocellular carcinoma employing bioinformatics techniques focused on senescence-related and pyroptosis-related genes
Authors: Liu Baixue , Ao Youguang , Liu Chunhui , Bai Feiyun , Zhou Zhi , Huang Juan , Wang Qi
Published: February 2025

Background

Liver hepatocellular carcinoma (LIHC) continues to pose a major global health concern and is characterized by elevated mortality rates and a lack of effective therapies. This study aimed to explore differential gene expression linked to cellular senescence and pyroptosis in LIHC and to develop a prognostic risk model for use in clinical settings.

Methods

We acquired datasets from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO). DESeq2 was used to identify differentially expressed genes associated with cell senescence and pyrodeath. The least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model was developed using cellular senescence- and pyroptosis-related differentially expressed genes (CSR&PRDEGs), and its predictive performance was evaluated with Kaplan–Meier survival analysis and time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves. We also performed various functional analyses of the genes. These findings were validated by real-time fluorescence quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Using bioinformatics analysis, we developed a prognostic risk framework incorporating six critical genes: ANXA2, APOA1, EZH2, IGF2BP3, SQSTM1, and TNFRSF11B.The model demonstrated a statistically significant difference in overall survival between the high-risk and low-risk groups (p < 0.05). Additionally, real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR confirmed that genes ANXA2, APOA1, EZH2, IGF2BP3, SQSTM1, and TNFRSF11B were significantly overexpressed in the peripheral blood of patients with LIHC in comparison to normal volunteers, thereby validating the prognostic risk model’s accuracy.

Conclusions

This study systematically elucidated the functions of genes associated with senescence and pyroptosis in LIHC cells. The constructed prognostic risk model serves to guide the development of personalized treatment plans, enhance patient management via risk stratification, facilitate the identification of high-risk patients, intensify monitoring or implement proactive interventions, thereby providing a novel perspective for the diagnosis and treatment of LIHC.
Consumers’ expected information search behavior for a pharmaceutical treatment
Authors: Liu Yifei , Fincham Jack E. , Sperry Morgan L.
Published: February 2025

Objective

The Comprehensive Model of Information Seeking (CMIS) integrates multiple factors influencing information seeking. This study was to identify factors impacting consumers’ expected information search behavior for a pharmaceutical treatment. By examining the predictive utility of these factors, the CMIS could be improved in the context of health information search.

Methods

A telephone interview was administered to a random-digit-dialed sample of 2,186 adult residents in a southern U.S. state. Measurements included expected information search for a pharmaceutical treatment within the next 2 weeks, self-rated health (SRH), extraversion, and demographics. SRH was measured on a 4-point scale (Excellent-4, Poor-1), with higher scores indicating better subjective health. A logistic regression was conducted, in which the outcome variable was the expected information search for a pharmaceutical treatment, and covariates were SRH, extraversion, and demographics.

Results

A total of 505 individuals participated. On average, they were 57 years old, and 61% of them were female. Fourteen percent of them expected to seek information for a pharmaceutical treatment. The logistic regression was significant (p < 0.01). SRH was a significant negative predictor (p < 0.05) and gender (female) was a significant positive predictor for the expected information-seeking behavior (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Consumers with lower SRH and women were more likely to perform expected information search for a pharmaceutical treatment. These findings have implications for both the modification of the CMIS and the provision of healthcare interventions.
Rapid and accurate classification of mung bean seeds based on HPMobileNet
Authors: Song Shaozhong , Chen Zhenyang , Yu Helong , Xue Mingxuan , Liu Junling
Published: February 2025

Mung bean seeds are very important in agricultural production and food processing, but due to their variety and similar appearance, traditional classification methods are challenging, to address this problem this study proposes a deep learning-based approach. In this study, based on the deep learning model MobileNetV2, a DMS block is proposed for mung bean seeds, and by introducing the ECA block and Mish activation function, a high-precision network model, i.e., HPMobileNet, is proposed, which is explored to be applied in the field of image recognition for the fast and accurate classification of different varieties of mung bean seeds. In this study, eight different varieties of mung bean seeds were collected and a total of 34,890 images were obtained by threshold segmentation and image enhancement techniques. HPMobileNet was used as the main network model, and by training and fine-tuning on a large-scale mung bean seed image dataset, efficient feature extraction classification and recognition capabilities were achieved. The experimental results show that HPMobileNet exhibits excellent performance in the mung bean seed grain classification task, with the accuracy improving from 87.40% to 94.01% on the test set, and compared with other classical network models, the results show that HPMobileNet achieves the best results. In addition, this study analyzes the impact of the learning rate dynamic adjustment strategy on the model and explores the potential for further optimization and application in the future. Therefore, this study provides a useful reference and empirical basis for the development of mung bean seed classification and smart agriculture technology.
The effect of COVID-19 on completed suicide rate in Iran: an Interrupted Time Series study (ITS)
Authors: Nouhi Siahroudi Azadeh , Hashemi Nazari Seyed Saeed , Namdari Mahshid , Panahi Mohammad Hossein , Mahdavi Seyed Amirhosein , Khademi Ali
Published: February 2025

Background

Suicide represents a critical public health concern and one of the most devastating forms of death. Based on a report from the World Health Organization, around 700,000 deaths by suicide occur globally each year. In 2019, the worldwide suicide mortality rate was 9.0 per 100,000 people, while in Iran, this rate has been reported to be an average of 5.2 per 100,000. Suicide is influenced by various factors spanning individual, relational, community, and social domains, all of which may elevate the risk of suicide and related death. One significant factor potentially impacting this issue was the COVID-19 pandemic, which may have affected these trends by disrupting individuals’ social interactions and gatherings. To explore this further, the present study was carried out to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the changes in suicide rates leading to death in Iran.

Methods

This study was designed using an Interrupted Time Series approach combined with negative binomial regression. Seasonal variations were adjusted for using the harmonic method. The research sample comprised 63,514 suicide-related deaths recorded between April 20, 2009, and March 20, 2023. Suicide mortality data were sourced from the National Legal Medicine Organization, while population statistics were obtained from the official website of the Statistical Center of Iran. The study analyzed trends in suicide incidence both prior to and during the COVID-19 pandemic. The period used to evaluate pandemic-related changes in Iran began in May 2020, following the World Health Organization’s declaration of COVID-19 as a global public health emergency. Descriptive analyses were performed using Stata software, and trend assessments through the Interrupted Time Series (ITS) method were conducted using R software and the “lmtest” statistical package.

Results

The changes in the incidence of suicide during the study increased by 1.003 monthly (p < 0.001). This rate increased by 1.1 (p < 0.001) compared to the times before the onset of the pandemic after entering the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic in the model. When the interaction effect of time with the COVID-19 pandemic was added to the base model, no significant relationship was observed.

Conclusion

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, suicides in Iran had a proportional increasing trend. However, three months after the pandemic, an increasing trend in the level of suicide deaths was observed. Most likely, the COVID-19 pandemic phenomenon had an impact on the occurrence of suicide.
Exploring sociodemographic disparities in diagnostic problems and mistakes in the quest for diagnostic equity: insights from a national survey of patient experiences
Authors: McDonald Kathryn M. , Gleason Kelly T. , Grob Rachel N. , Yuan Christina T. , Dhingra Isha , Evered Jane A. , Warne Emily M. , Schlesinger Mark
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As part of building a platform for epidemiological research on diagnostic errors and problems that centers on patients and equity, this paper summarizes the development and analysis of data collected from fielding a survey in a nationally representative U.S. population to explore the prevalence and harm consequences of diagnostic problems or mistakes (referred to here as “diagnostic P&Ms”) by respondent-reported sociodemographic characteristics.

Methods

We applied narrative elicitation methods to enhance the rigor of implementing a novel survey about diagnostic experiences. We conducted a U.S. population-based survey of a nationally representative sample in 2022–2023, drawn from the NORC AmeriSpeak® panel. We conducted multivariate regression analysis at the household level and in a patient subsample to explore sociodemographic predictors of diagnostic P&Ms and related outcomes in the aftermath.

Results

The comparative analysis by sociodemographic characteristics estimates prevalence of diagnostic P&Ms, prevalence of persisting harms, rate of respondent-reported perceptions of personal attribute adversely affecting diagnosis, and concern about future diagnostic P&Ms. Outcome estimates ranged from about 4% (concern about future diagnostic P&M) to 38% (at least one P&M in households during the past 4 years). Several sociodemographic groups experienced statistically significant higher levels of risk for these outcomes, with some at greater than twice the odds compared to reference groups—transgender and gender independent individuals (e.g., 5 + −fold odds of expectation of future P&M compared to cis-males), cis-females (e.g., greater than 1.5 odds of persistent physical and emotional harms compared to cis-males), low household income (e.g., twice the likelihood of multiple P&Ms for incomes under $60 K compared to $100 K+ households), younger age (3-fold odds of at least one diagnostic P&M for those under 25 years old compared to those aged 45–54), multiracial individuals (about twice the odds of diagnostic P&Ms compared to non-Hispanic White), and disabled and unable to work full-time (more than twice the likelihood of perceiving that a personal attribute impaired diagnosis compared to those with other work status designations).

Discussion

This new survey and accompanying data source facilitate an enriched exploration of the patterns of diagnostic disparities and points of leverage through which diagnostic experiences can be made more equitable.
A scoping review of the prevalence of musicians’ hearing loss
Authors: Firle Carl , Richter Antonia Helen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Hearing loss is the most commonly recognized occupational disease in Germany. Musicians are also affected, as playing classical music can expose them to high or very high sound volumes. With this scoping review, we aimed to assess the prevalence of noise-induced hearing loss among professional musicians and evaluate its characteristics.

Methods

The databases such as MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Google Scholar were searched using the terms (hearing loss OR hearing impairment OR hearing difficulties OR acoustic trauma) AND (musician) on 14 August 2023 and 2 January 2025. Only original studies with audiometric examination results were included.

Results

A total of 79 studies were retrieved for descriptive analysis. The median number of participants was 52 (IQR 30-109). The majority of the retrieved studies included participants with at least 5 years of experience as practicing musicians. The proportion of men was significantly higher than that of women, with the medianmen portion of 69% (IQR 53–83%). Students were a common study population, indicating that the data on older and retired musicians were either rare or missing. As a result, the lifetime prevalence of hearing loss in musicians could not be determined. The data analysis showed an increased risk of hearing loss >15–20 dB in the frequency range of 4,000–6,000 Hz among participants in the classical genre group. Studies with participants having normal hearing were also found within that genre. Rock, pop, and jazz musicians had an increased risk of hearing loss >20 dB in the frequency range of 3,000–8,000 Hz. The data for military and marching band music and traditional music genres were limited. The retrieved studies indicated a higher risk of hearing loss >20 dB in the frequency range of 4,000–6,000 Hz. A total of 17 studies adjusted the audiogram results for age, 2 did not, and 59 had no report. Data extraction yielded a prevalence of notch configurations in 20–50% of the classical musicians, with hearing loss affecting 5–70% of them. Up to 40% of rock, pop, and jazz musicians showed notch configurations, with 20–60% experiencing hearing loss.

Conclusion

Overall, a definitive assessment of the prevalence of musicians’ hearing loss cannot be drawn from the available data. Prospective, longitudinal studies with reliable sample sizes and representative populations are essential. A multicenter study would also be valuable.
Dual impact of information technology and dining environment: the potential mechanisms of takeout services on college student health
Authors: Yang Qi
Published: February 2025

With the development of information technology and the popularization of the O2O business model, food delivery services have become a primary dietary choice for university students. This study, based on the social-ecological model, environmental psychology, and behavioral decision theory, aims to explore the mechanisms by which food delivery culture and campus dining environments influence obesity risk among university students, providing a basis for campus dietary management and public health policies. The study involved eight universities in Changsha, collecting 518 questionnaires on dietary behaviors, self-reported BMI, and weight change data. It also integrated data from Gaode Maps and food delivery platforms to assess the characteristics of dining environments. Multiple regression and logistic regression models were used to analyze the relationships between dining environments, food delivery frequency, and health outcomes. The results showed that food delivery frequency was significantly associated with economic status (regression coefficient = 0.418, p < 0.001), with students with higher living expenses being more likely to opt for food delivery. There was a significant negative correlation between healthy food delivery option scores and BMI (standardized coefficient = −0.110, p < 0.05), indicating that students who chose healthier food delivery options had lower BMI. Longer food delivery times (regression coefficient = −0.257, p = 0.052) and poorer cafeteria accessibility (regression coefficient = 0.433, p < 0.001) significantly increased food delivery frequency. Additionally, students in suburban universities had higher BMI (23.45 kg/m2) than those in urban universities (22.23 kg/m2), primarily due to lower availability of healthy dining options in suburban areas. The study indicates that food delivery culture, through its convenience and diversity, reinforces a tendency to consume high-calorie foods, increasing the risk of obesity. It is recommended to optimize on-campus healthy dining facilities and introduce health-focused recommendation systems on food delivery platforms to promote healthier behaviors among university students.
Environmental physiotherapy: knowledge, attitudes, and practices among physiotherapists in Iceland
Authors: Olafsdottir Steinunn A. , Petursdottir Lilja Salome H.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

With growing concerns about climate change and the healthcare sector's carbon footprint, integrating sustainable practices into physiotherapy could not only reduce this impact but also enhance patient outcomes. This study explores the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of physiotherapists in Iceland regarding climate change and their role in promoting sustainability.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was distributed to active members of the Icelandic Physiotherapy Association. A total of 114 physiotherapists participated (17.1% response rate). The survey, consisting of 21 questions across four themes—knowledge, attitudes, behavior, and obstacles—captured insights on respondents' understanding of climate change, their environmental practices, and the challenges they encounter.

Results

The results revealed a strong awareness of the relevance of climate change to health, though many respondents acknowledged limited knowledge on the topic. A majority expressed a sense of responsibility to mitigate climate change and reported taking actions such as reducing waste and promoting energy conservation. However, many identified a need for more guidance and training to integrate sustainable practices effectively. The primary obstacle was insufficient knowledge on implementing environmental strategies, with respondents indicating that education and resources would help overcome this barrier.

Discussion

This study highlights the potential for physiotherapists to contribute significantly to the healthcare sector's sustainability goals. The respondents' desire to enhance their environmental practices suggests an opportunity for professional associations and educational institutions to provide targeted training and support. By fostering greater environmental literacy, physiotherapists could not only contribute to reducing the healthcare sector's carbon footprint but also promote sustainable health behaviors in patients. Enhanced knowledge and support could help physiotherapists become key contributors to sustainability in healthcare.
The power and pain of words: how language matters in responding to patients after harm
Authors: Benjamin E. M. , Peterson A. , Schweitzer L. , Calcasola S. , Korn F. , Lodato P. , Bradley J. , Hemmelgarn C.
Published: February 2025

A change is slowly occurring in the ways healthcare responds to patients after they experience harm. The imperative to be transparent with patients and families has been accepted as a key element of high quality, safe and patient-centered healthcare. The language used to describe the experience of the people impacted by harm events is also evolving, recognizing that certain words can help or hinder the experience of patients affected by harm. The language describing these efforts is shifting from legal and institutional terminology to more inclusive terms recognizing broader groups impacted by harm. We describe the evolution of language regarding harm response and make recommendations for the future of the field. While our observations on language are specific to the terminology used in the United States, the concept of moving to more patient-centered language is universal. Other countries should make similar reviews to use more patient-centered language when discussing patient harm.
Design and Testing of a Wearable System for Monitoring Car Drivers
Authors: Moinard Julien , Ceccarelli Marco , Russo Matteo
Published: February 2025

The increasing concern over driver safety has led to the development of various monitoring systems aimed at assessing the physiological state of drivers. This paper presents the design development and testing of a wearable system that monitors key physiological indicators such as heart rate, skin conductance, and movement to evaluate whether the driver’s behavior is aggressive. The system integrates multiple sensors to provide real-time data on the driver’s state. Our objective is to enhance driver safety by detecting aggressive driving behavior through continuous monitoring. This paper covers the conceptual design, performance analysis, and testing layout of the system. Results indicate the system’s effectiveness in detecting changes in physiological states, suggesting its potential for improving road safety and its potential for practical implementation.
An Overview of Distributed Firewalls and Controllers Intended for Mobile Cloud Computing
Authors: Suetor Cyril Godwin , Scrimieri Daniele , Qureshi Amna , Awan Irfan-Ullah
Published: February 2025

Mobile cloud computing (MCC) is a representation of the interaction between cloud computing and mobile devices, reshaping the utilisation of technology for consumers and businesses. This level of mobility and decentralisation of devices in MCC necessitates a highly secured framework to facilitate it. This literature review on distributed firewalls and controllers for mobile cloud computing reveals the critical need for a security framework tailored to the dynamic and decentralised nature of MCC. This study further emphasises the importance of integrating distributed firewalls with central controllers to address the unique security challenges in MCC, such as nomadic device behaviour and resource allocation optimisation. Additionally, it highlights the significance of Cloud Access Security Brokers (CASBs) in improving data security and ensuring compliance within mobile cloud applications. This review also addresses specific research questions related to security concerns, scalable framework development, and the effectiveness of distributed firewall and controller systems in MCC. It explores the complexities involved in merging Software-Defined Networking (SDN), Network Function Virtualisation (NFV), and CASB into a cohesive system, focusing on the need to resolve interoperability issues and maintain low latency and high throughput while balancing performance across distributed firewalls and controllers. The review also points to the necessity of privacy-preserving methods within CASB to uphold privacy standards in MCC. Furthermore, it identifies the integration of NFV and SDN as crucial for enhancing security and performance in MCC environments, and stresses the importance of future research directions, such as the incorporation of machine learning and edge computing, to further improve the security and efficiency of MCC systems. To the best of our knowledge, this review is the first to comprehensively examine the integration of these advanced technologies within the context of MCC.
Influence of Maturity Status on the Reliability of the 3-Point Line Curve Sprint Test in Young Basketball Players
Authors: Muñoz-Fole Pedro , Baena-Raya Andrés , Rey Ezequiel , Giráldez-García Manuel , Padrón-Cabo Alexis
Published: February 2025

This study was designed to evaluate the influence of maturity status in the inter- and intra-session reliability of curvilinear sprinting (CS) and compare the reliability of the half-CS trials with the complete CS trials. Forty-two youth basketball players from an elite academy (13.1 ± 1.7 years; 166.7 ± 16.2 cm; 57.2 ± 17.0 kg) performed two sessions of three CS trials each on both right and left sides with seven days of separation between sessions. The predicted peak height velocity (PHV) was used to establish players’ maturity status (pre-PHV, n = 14; mid-PHV, n = 14; post-PHV = 13). Mid- and post-PHV groups showed a high relative (interclass correlation coefficient [ICC] ≥ 0.75) and absolute (coefficient of variation [CV] < 5%) reliability inter- and intra-session, and pre-PHV showed high relative and absolute reliability in the left trials and in the CS right trial, but moderate (ICC = 0.73) relative reliability in the half-CS right side. Based on these findings, it is recommended that practitioners consider players’ maturity status to ensure accurate and reliable assessments of CS performance.
Initial Value Estimation of Uncertain Differential Equations Based on Residuals with Application in Financial Market
Authors: Lio Waichon , Liu Yang
Published: February 2025

The initial value estimation of uncertain differential equations refers to the process of estimating the initial state of a time-varying system using observed data when we cannot know exactly the initial state of the system in uncertain environments. In order to study the initial value estimation problem of uncertain differential equations, this paper constructs the confidence interval and point estimation of the initial value based on the residuals corresponding to the observed data. In order to further explain the initial value estimation based on residuals, this paper gives the confidence intervals and point estimations of the initial value for several specific uncertain differential equations, including linear, exponential, and mean-reversion uncertain differential equations. Finally, two numerical examples and an empirical study are also provided to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Risk of Cervical Carcinoma After Unfavorable Behavior and High Genetic Risk in the UK Biobank: A Prospective Nested Case–Control Study
Authors: Liu Shiyi , Guan Yunlong , Lin Shitong , Wu Peng , Zhang Qing , Chu Tian , Dong Ruifen
Published: February 2025

Background: Previous studies have established a general understanding of the association between risky sexual behavior, genetic risk, and cervical carcinoma. However, these studies were conducted several years ago and lack systematic analysis using high-quality and population-based data. Methods: We conducted a prospective nested case–control study to identify risky behaviors and developed a behavior score. Combining the behavior score and genetic risk, we evaluated the effect of sexual and reproductive behavior and PRS on cervical carcinoma through the developed conditional logistic regression models. Results: We verified increased carcinoma risk in individuals with early sexual intercourse (OR: 1.41 [95% CI 1.09 to 1.83], p = 0.0083), non-monogamous sexual partners (OR: 3.13 [95% CI 2.15 to 4.57], p < 0.0001), three or more live births (OR: 1.44 [95% CI 1.12 to 1.84], p = 0.0040), and high PRS (polygenic risk score) (top 25% of PRS, OR: 1.58 [95% CI 1.15 to 2.16], p = 0.0044). The unfavorable sexual and reproductive behavior score we developed was linked to a 151% increased risk (OR: 2.51 [95% CI 1.79 to 3.52], p < 0.0001) after adjusting for PRS. Women with both unfavorable behavior and high genetic risk had a 5.5-fold increased cervical carcinoma risk (OR: 5.45 [95% CI 2.72 to 10.95], p < 0.0001) compared to individuals with favorable behavior and low genetic risk. Conclusions: Unfavorable sexual and reproductive behavior increases the risk of cervical carcinoma, especially in those with a high genetic risk. These findings encourage us to adhere to a healthy sexual and reproductive pattern.
In Vitro Inhibition of Endoplasmic Reticulum Stress: A Promising Therapeutic Strategy for Patients with Crohn’s Disease
Authors: Rodrigues Bruno Lima , Pascoal Lívia Bitencourt , Genaro Lívia Moreira , Warrak Leonardo Saint Clair Assad , Rodrigues Beatriz Alves Guerra , Coope Andressa , Camargo Michel Gardere , Oliveira Priscilla de Sene Portel , Ayrizono Maria de Lourdes Setsuko , Velloso Lício Augusto , Leal Raquel Franco
Published: February 2025

Background: Crohn’s disease (CD) is an inflammatory bowel disease marked by an abnormal immune response and excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines, leading to impaired protein processing and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This stress, caused by the accumulation of misfolded proteins, triggers the unfolded protein response (UPR) through IRE1/Xbp-1, PERK/eIF2α, and ATF6 pathways, which are linked to intestinal inflammation. This study aimed to investigate ER stress in CD patients’ intestinal mucosa and evaluate phenylbutyrate (PBA) as an ER stress inhibitor. Methods: Colon biopsies from CD patients and controls were cultured under five conditions, including 4-PBA treatments. Real-time PCR, cytokine level, and immunohistochemistry were performed. Results: Immunohistochemistry revealed that ER stress was activated in CD patients’ intestinal epithelial cells and lamina propria cells. PERK/eIF2α, but not IRE1/Xbp-1 or ATF6, was upregulated in CD patients compared to controls. UPR-related genes (STC2, CALR, HSPA5, HSP90B1) were also elevated in CD patients. PBA treatment significantly reduced ER stress and UPR markers while decreasing apoptotic markers like DDIT3. Pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-1β, IL-6, IL-17, TNF- α, and sCD40L, were significantly reduced after PBA treatment. Conclusion: ER stress and UPR pathways are activated in CD colonic mucosa, and PBA reduces these markers, suggesting potential therapeutic benefits for CD-related inflammation.
Sex Disparity in Cancer: Role of Autophagy and Estrogen Receptors
Authors: Vona Rosa , Cittadini Camilla , Ortona Elena , Matarrese Paola
Published: February 2025

Autophagy, a cellular process essential for maintaining homeostasis, plays a fundamental role in recycling damaged components and in adapting to stress. The dysregulation of autophagy is implicated in numerous human diseases, including cancer, where it exhibits a dual role as both a suppressor and a promoter, depending on the context and the stage of tumor development. The significant sex differences observed in autophagic processes are determined by biological factors, such as genetic makeup and sex hormones. Estrogens, through their interaction with specific receptors, modulate autophagy and influence tumor progression, therapy resistance, and the immune response to tumors. In females, the escape from X inactivation and estrogen signaling may be responsible for the advantages, in terms of lower incidence and longer survival, observed in oncology. Women often show better responses to traditional chemotherapy, while men respond better to immunotherapy. The action of sex hormones on the immune system could contribute to these differences. However, women experience more severe adverse reactions to anticancer drugs. The estrogen/autophagy crosstalk—involved in multiple aspects of the tumor, i.e., development, progression and the response to therapy—deserves an in-depth study, as it could highlight sex-specific mechanisms useful for designing innovative and gender-tailored treatments from the perspective of precision medicine.
Vinipel Curing: A Sustainable Approach to Enhanced Concrete Durability and Strength
Authors: Bolaño Joeel , De la Iglesia Joyce , Murillo Michel , Abudinen Daniel , Canales Fausto A. , Cano Heidis
Published: February 2025

Currently, the demand for environmental sustainability options in the construction industry is increasing, especially those related to the correct use of water. The aim of this work is to study different sustainable alternatives that minimize the use of water in cured hydraulic concrete, analyzing the effect of curing on hydration, microstructure, and compressive strength of hydraulic concrete exposed to different curing techniques: Manual Curing, Standard Curing, Vinipel, and Uncured. An experimental study was conducted using 180 cylindrical hydraulic concrete specimens, which were compression-tested at 7, 28, and 56 days. A Scanning Electron Microscope equipped with an Energy Dispersive X-ray Spectrometer analysis was carried out to examine the microstructural and compositional changes under the different curing techniques. The results indicate that the Vinipel technique is the best alternative, showing a compressive strength of 35 MPa after 56 days of curing. In general, Vinipel > Standard Curing > Manual Curing > Uncured is the order of strength from highest to lowest. The formation of hydration products was observed in all curing techniques. The presence of ettringite, complementing by abundant portlandite in Vinipel, shows the dominance of an important product in the strength of concrete. The best strength capacity under load and the lowest percentages of vacuum are likely to be favorable for the durability of the processes.
Microstructure and Properties of Ti-5Al-2.5Sn Alloy with Higher Carbon Content
Authors: Szkliniarz Agnieszka , Szkliniarz Wojciech
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the characteristics of the Ti-5Al-2.5Sn-0.2C alloy, an alpha titanium alloy containing approximately 0.2 wt% carbon—a concentration significantly exceeding the standard allowable limit of 0.08 wt%. The Ti-5Al-2.5Sn-0.2C alloy was melted in a vacuum induction furnace with a cold copper crucible, processed into bar form through hot rolling, and subsequently annealed under standard conditions. The microstructure and mechanical properties of the Ti-5Al-2.5Sn-0.2C alloy were systematically compared with those of the Ti-5Al-2.5Sn alloy (Grade 6), which possesses a similar chemical composition. The results revealed that the addition of 0.2 wt% carbon significantly influences the alloy’s solidification process, phase transformation temperatures, phase composition, and phase lattice parameters. Moreover, the carbon addition enhances key mechanical properties, including tensile strength, yield strength, hardness, and wear resistance, as well as creep and oxidation resistance. While a slight reduction in plasticity and increase in impact energy were observed, the alloy remained within the permissible range defined by existing standards.
Development of an AI-Supported Clinical Tool for Assessing Mandibular Third Molar Tooth Extraction Difficulty Using Panoramic Radiographs and YOLO11 Sub-Models
Authors: Akdoğan Serap , Öziç Muhammet Üsame , Tassoker Melek
Published: February 2025

Background/Objective: This study aimed to develop an AI-supported clinical tool to evaluate the difficulty of mandibular third molar extractions based on panoramic radiographs. Methods: A dataset of 2000 panoramic radiographs collected between 2023 and 2024 was annotated by an oral radiologist using bounding boxes. YOLO11 sub-models were trained and tested for three basic scenarios according to the Pederson Index criteria, taking into account Winter (angulation) and Pell and Gregory (ramus relationship and depth). For each scenario, the YOLO11 sub-models were trained using 80% of the data for training, 10% for validation, and 10% for testing. Model performance was assessed using precision, recall, F1 score, and mean Average Precision (mAP) metrics, and different graphs. Results: YOLO11 sub-models (nano, small, medium, large, extra-large) showed high accuracy and similar behavior in all scenarios. For the calculation of the Pederson index, nano for Winter (average training mAP@0.50 = 0.963; testing mAP@0.50 = 0.975), nano for class (average training mAP@0.50 = 0.979; testing mAP@0.50 = 0.965), and medium for level (average training mAP@0.50 = 0.977; testing mAP@0.50 = 0.989) from the Pell and Gregory categories were selected as optimal sub-models. Three scenarios were run consecutively on panoramic images, and slightly difficult, moderately difficult, and very difficult Pederson indexes were obtained according to the scores. The results were evaluated by an oral radiologist, and the AI system performed successfully in terms of Pederson index determination with 97.00% precision, 94.55% recall, and 95.76% F1 score. Conclusions: The YOLO11-supported clinical tool demonstrated high accuracy and reliability in assessing mandibular third molar extraction difficulty on panoramic radiographs. These models were integrated into a GUI for clinical use, offering dentists a simple tool for estimating extraction difficulty, and improving decision-making and patient management.
The Human Energy Balance: Uncovering the Hidden Variables of Obesity
Authors: Theodorakis Nikolaos , Nikolaou Maria
Published: February 2025

Obesity has emerged as a global epidemic, creating an increased burden of weight-related diseases and straining healthcare systems worldwide. While the fundamental principle of energy balance—caloric intake versus expenditure—remains central to weight regulation, real-world outcomes often deviate from simplistic predictions due to a multitude of physiological and environmental factors. Genetic predispositions, variations in basal metabolic rates, adaptive thermogenesis, physical activity, and nutrient losses via fecal and urinary excretion contribute to interindividual differences in energy homeostasis. Additionally, factors such as meal timing, macronutrient composition, gut microbiota dynamics, and diet-induced thermogenesis (DIT) further modulate energy utilization and metabolic efficiency. This Perspective explores key physiological determinants of the energy balance, while also highlighting the clinical significance of thrifty versus spendthrifty metabolic phenotypes. Key strategies for individualized weight management include precision calorimetry, circadian-aligned meal timing, the use of protein- and whole food diets to enhance DIT, and increases in non-exercise activity, as well as mild cold exposure and the use of thermogenic agents (e.g., capsaicin-like compounds) to stimulate brown adipose tissue activity. A comprehensive, personalized approach to obesity management that moves beyond restrictive caloric models is essential to achieving sustainable weight control and improving long-term metabolic health. Integrating these multifactorial insights into clinical practice will enhance obesity treatment strategies, fostering more effective and enduring interventions.
Interventions Aimed at Reducing Non-Urgent Presentations and Frequent Attendance in Paediatric Emergency Departments: A Rapid Systematic Review
Authors: Barca-Ruso Zeina , Montoro-Pérez Néstor , Montejano-Lozoya Raimunda , Sanjuán-Quiles Ángela , Perpiñá-Galvañ Juana
Published: February 2025

Background: Overcrowding in emergency services (ESs) is an escalating issue in many countries worldwide, and it is also evident in the paediatric context. Specifically, in paediatric emergency departments (PEDs) in Europe, there has been a noticeable upward trend in demand for care over the past decade, peaking at 9.1 million visits in 2020. Objectives: To identify interventions aimed at reducing non-urgent presentations (NUPs) and attendance rate PEDs. Methods: A systematic review of the last five years was conducted using various databases (Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL) in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) statement. Results: A total of 15 articles were included in the final review, detailing five types of interventions: (1) telemedicine-based interventions, (2) the continuity of care interventions, (3) health literacy-based interventions, (4) interventions focused on establishing a point of access prior to emergency care, and (5) multidisciplinary interventions. Conclusions: The results of this review suggest the implementation of telemedicine-based interventions, the promotion of continuity of care, and the enhancement of parental health literacy as strategies to address the issue of overcrowding in PEDs.
Training in Graphic Design and Social Sustainability: A SEM-PLS Study on Professional Influence on Students
Authors: Bucio-Gutierrez Daniel , Arvizu-Sánchez Eduardo , Díaz-Mariño Blanca L. , Brandt-García Lisbeth América , Gatica-Gómez Avecita , Reyna-Castillo Miguel
Published: February 2025

Both the profession and education of graphic design have embraced the sustainability trend. However, in emerging contexts like Mexico, the focus on environmental issues often overshadows the social dimension of sustainability. This study, unique in its focus, examines, from the students’ perception, the influence of social sustainability (SS) practices in design professionals on the SS orientation of graphic design students. Using a Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Model (SEM-PLS) for non-parametric statistical analysis, data from n 136 university students were collected. The results reveal a positive influence of SS professional practices on student orientation toward general sustainability and SS. Notably, this study identified a significant indirect relationship, underscoring the importance of integrating a socially sustainable perspective into academic training. This finding supports the notion that students, when exposed to socially responsible practices in their professional environment, cultivate a culture of sustainability that encompasses the social and community aspects of the discipline.
Electrochemical Investigations of the Suitability of 1-Propyl-2,3-dimethylidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide as the Electrolyte for Application in Micro–Mesoporous Carbon-Electrode-Based Supercapacitors and Other Electrochemical Systems
Authors: Kruusma Jaanus , Lust Enn
Published: February 2025

The electrochemical properties of the hydrophobic room-temperature ionic liquid 1-propyl-2,3-dimethylimidazolium bis(trifluoromethylsulfonyl)imide (PMMIm(TFSI)) were investigated, for the first time, using an electrochemical double-layer capacitor-mimicking cell containing two identical-sized micro–mesoporous molybdenum carbide-derived carbon electrodes (MMP-C(Mo2C)), by applying cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) techniques. Surprisingly, despite the substitution of the slightly acidic hydrogen atom with a methyl group at the carbon atom located between two nitrogen atoms in the imidazolium cation, the EIS and CV measurements demonstrated that PMMIm(TFSI) began to decompose electrochemically at the same cell potential (ΔE) as 1-ethyl-3-methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (EMIm(BF4)), specifically at ΔE = 2.75 V. However, the CV and EIS data indicated that PMMIm(TFSI) decomposed with a significantly lower intensity than EMIm(BF4). Therefore, we believe that the use of PMMIm(TFSI) as the electrolyte will enable the construction of safer supercapacitors that can tolerate short periods of over-polarization up to ΔE = 4.0 V. However, when the ΔE ≤ 3.2 V was applied, EMIm(BF4) offered higher maximum power compared to PMMIm(TFSI). We found that the calculated maximum gravimetric power precisely describes the maximum ΔE applicable for a supercapacitor candidate.
Vision-Based Hand Gesture Recognition Using a YOLOv8n Model for the Navigation of a Smart Wheelchair
Authors: Nguyen Thanh-Hai , Ngo Ba-Viet , Nguyen Thanh-Nghia
Published: February 2025

Electric wheelchairs are the primary means of transportation that enable individuals with disabilities to move independently to their desired locations. This paper introduces a novel, low-cost smart wheelchair system designed to enhance the mobility of individuals with severe disabilities through hand gesture recognition. Additionally, the system aims to support low-income individuals who previously lacked access to smart wheelchairs. Unlike existing methods that rely on expensive hardware or complex systems, the proposed system utilizes an affordable webcam and an Nvidia Jetson Nano embedded computer to process and recognize six distinct hand gestures—“Forward 1”, “Forward 2”, “Backward”, “Left”, “Right”, and “Stop”—to assist with wheelchair navigation. The system employs the “You Only Look Once version 8n” (YOLOv8n) model, which is well suited for low-spec embedded computers, trained on a self-collected hand gesture dataset containing 12,000 images. The pre-processing phase utilizes the MediaPipe library to generate landmark hand images, remove the background, and then extract the region of interest (ROI) of the hand gestures, significantly improving gesture recognition accuracy compared to previous methods that relied solely on hand images. Experimental results demonstrate impressive performance, achieving 99.3% gesture recognition accuracy and 93.8% overall movement accuracy in diverse indoor and outdoor environments. Furthermore, this paper presents a control circuit system that can be easily installed on any existing electric wheelchair. This approach offers a cost-effective, real-time solution that enhances the autonomy of individuals with severe disabilities in daily activities, laying the foundation for the development of affordable smart wheelchairs.
Profitability Analysis of Battery Energy Storage in Energy and Balancing Markets: A Case Study in the Greek Market
Authors: Giannakopoulos Giannis T. , Papadaskalopoulos Dimitrios A. , Karasavvidis Makedon D. , Vovos Panagis N.
Published: February 2025

Despite the massive increase of renewable energy generation in Greece, large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) are yet to be integrated in the Greek electricity market. This paper analyzes the profitability of BESS in Greece, focusing on the Day-Ahead Market (DAM) and the Frequency Containment Reserve (FCR) market. To this end, we examine and compare the following three instances of BESS market participation with respect to the short-term uncertainty BESS participants face in terms of market prices and FCR utilization factors: (a) a theoretical perfect information instance, (b) a deterministic instance based on average historical values of the uncertain parameters, and (c) a stochastic instance based on alternative scenarios stemming from historical data. The last two instances are complemented by an out-of-sample validation representing BESS operation after uncertainty is materialized. Furthermore, for each of these three instances, we explore three cases involving participation only in the DAM, only in the FCR market, and in a combination of the DAM and FCR market, accounting for the different pricing mechanisms of these markets. The case studies employ real market and frequency data from Greece and compare the three instances and three market participation cases in terms of achieved profit and energy violation rate.