bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Co-culture of Helicobacter pylori with oral microorganisms in human saliva
Authors: Scholz Konstantin Johannes , Höhne Annabelle , Wittmer Annette , Häcker Georg , Hellwig Elmar , Cieplik Fabian , Waidner Barbara , Al-Ahmad Ali
Published: January 2025

Objective

Helicobacter pylori is known for colonizing the gastric mucosa and instigating severe upper gastrointestinal diseases such as gastritis, gastroduodenal ulcers, and gastric cancer. To date, there is no data available on the oral cavity as transmission site, whether H. pylori can survive in the oral cavity or in human saliva. The aim of the study was to investigate the influence of oral microorganisms and human saliva on the survival of H. pylori in human saliva.

Methods

H. pylori strains KE, a motile derivate of type strain H. pylori 26695, and H. pylori SS1, a clinical isolate from a gastric biopsy, were grown in human pooled saliva (pooled from 4 healthy human donors, 0.22 μm filter-sterilized) or in BBF (Brucella browth formula; control) either as mono-cultures or in co-culture with Streptococcus mutans, Streptococcus oralis, Actinomyces naeslundii, Lacticaseibacillus casei and Candida dubliniensis. Bacterial survival of H. pylori and the oral microorganisms were investigated using colony forming units (CFU) assay and MALDI-TOF MS at baseline and after 24, 48 and 168 h.

Results

In saliva, H. pylori KE demonstrated enhanced survival in co-culture with S. mutans, A. naeslundii, and C. dubliniensis, enduring for at least 48 h. In contrast, L. casei and S. oralis inhibited H. pylori KE in saliva. H. pylori KE could not be cultured after 168 h in saliva, neither in mono- nor co-culture. In contrast, H. pylori SS1 in saliva could be cultured after 168 h in co-culture with S. mutans and C. dubliniensis, but not in mono-culture. In BBF, H. pylori KE could be cultured after 168 h with S. mutans, L. casei and C. dubliniensis, and H. pylori SS1 with L. casei and C. dubliniensis, but not with S. mutans. Notably, the co-cultured microorganisms survived at high CFU numbers similar to those of the monocultures.

Conclusion

The study suggests that H. pylori can transiently survive in human saliva and even with presence of certain oral microorganisms. However, it may not be a permanent resident of the oral microbiota. The co-survival with oral microorganisms emphasizes the necessity for studying the role of the oral microbiota in the infectious and transmission cycle of H. pylori.
Reconstructing the long-term ecological history of Long Island, Furneaux Group (Bass Strait), Lutruwita/Tasmania
Authors: Bessell-Koprek Madeleine , Haberle Simon Graeme , Ondei Stefania , Harris Stephen , Bowman David M. J. S.
Published: January 2025

The Bass Strait islands are the elevated remnants of a now-submerged continental land bridge that connected the mainland of Australia to Lutruwita/Tasmania during low sea level phases of the Quaternery period. The Furneaux Group is made up of around 100 islands, harbouring a rich diversity of plants derived from glacial refugia and stepping-stone dispersal as millennial-scale climate change altered the land and seascape configuration of the land bridge. Despite the region’s significance, long-term ecological and environmental dynamics of most of these islands remain poorly known. We present the first palaeoecological study of Long Island, a small granite island of the Furneaux group, currently covered by extensive grasslands in the west and patches of forest and woodland in the east and north of the island. We use decadal to centennial-scale resolution palaeoecological evidence for vegetation, animal and fire dynamics, alongside historical accounts of vegetation changes inferred from aerial photo analysis, to develop a comprehensive record of the island’s long-term ecology. Results show that grasslands have been an important feature of the island for at least the last 1000 years, and are reminiscent of Last Glacial Maximum grasslands of the now-submerged Bassian Plain. Both aerial photo analysis and the palaeoecological record show increases in forest cover on the island’s eastern corner over the past four decades. We discuss these ecological dynamics in the context of environmental and climatic shifts. This study emphasises the importance of palaeoecological studies, specifically their value in understanding modern ecosystems in their historic context. This data is critical in understanding the island’s current landscape and how this might change into the future.
Margin matters: analyzing the impact of circumferential margin involvement on survival and recurrence after incomplete total mesorectal excision for rectal cancer
Authors: Alipouriani A. , Almadi F. , Rosen D. R. , Liska D. , Kanters A. E. , Ban K. , Gorgun E. , Steele S. R.
Published: January 2025

Background

Incomplete mesorectal excision during rectal cancer surgery often leads to positive circumferential margins, with uncertain prognostic impacts. This study examines whether negative margins can mitigate the poorer prognosis typically associated with incomplete total mesorectal excision (TME) in rectal cancer surgery, thus potentially challenging the prevailing emphasis on complete mesorectal excision.

Patients and methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on patients who underwent proctectomy for rectal adenocarcinoma with incomplete TME at a single center from 2010 to 2022. Patients were stratified by margin status as determined by pathologic analysis into three groups: involved, not involved with closest margin distance ≤ 2 mm, and not involved with closest margin distance > 2 mm. Outcomes included recurrence and survival. Effects of neoadjuvant therapy protocols on margin status were also assessed.

Results

From 2010 to 2022, 7941 patients underwent proctectomy for rectal cancer, with 236 (3%) having incomplete TME. The median age of these patients was 64 years, and 63% were male. Overall, margin involvement was observed in 54 (23%) patients. The median tumor size was 3.05 cm (interquartile range (IQR): 2–6) for the whole group. Involved margins (23.2%) had reduced overall survival (60.5 months versus 87.3 months, p < 0.001), increased local recurrence (20.4% versus 9.4%, p = 0.024), and lower disease-free survival (45.2 versus 58.9 months, p = 0.006) versus uninvolved margins. Margin involvement was prognostic for decreased survival even after adjusting for confounders (p < 0.05). Among uninvolved margins, distance (> 2 mm versus ≤ 2 mm) did not affect outcomes. Total neoadjuvant therapy (versus standard chemoradiation) was associated with lower involved margins (p = 0.007).

Conclusions

Positive margins retain negative prognostic impact with incomplete TME. Optimization of surgical resection remains vital. Total neoadjuvant therapy was associated with a lower rate of margin involvement.
CT angiography of acute aortic syndrome in patients with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Papachristodoulou Angeliki , Ghibes Patrick , Pentara Natalia Valeria , Alexandratou Maria , Levitin Abraham , Gadani Sameer , Partovi Sasan , Psoma Elizabeth , Rafailidis Vasileios , Prassopoulos Panos
Published: January 2025

The term acute aortic syndrome (AAS) refers to a range of different entities, including dissection, intramural haematoma and penetrating atherosclerotic ulcer. Patients with chronic renal disease and particularly those with dominant polycystic kidney disease are susceptible to this pathology, given the underlying renal arteriopathy and hypertension. Imaging plays a crucial role in diagnosing, grading and guiding management of these patients, with computed tomography angiography (CTA) being on the frontline. Albeit of overlapping of imaging findings between these conditions, specific imaging characteristics help discriminate and guide treatment. Given the nephrotoxic contrast agent involved, tailored CTA protocols or alternative imaging modalities such as MRI or US are necessary in this patient population. This review article discusses the main imaging findings of entities found in the spectrum of AAS, as well as the appropriate use and protocol of imaging modalities, focusing on the appropriate use of nephrotoxic contrast agents, the preservation of renal function and maintenance of optimal diagnostic accuracy.
Polynomial Chaos Expansion: Efficient Evaluation and Estimation of Computational Models
Authors: Fehrle Daniel , Heiberger Christopher , Huber Johannes
Published: January 2025

We apply Polynomial chaos expansion (PCE) to surrogate time-consuming repeated model evaluations for different parameter values. PCE represents a random variable, the quantity of interest (QoI), as a series expansion of other random variables, the inputs. Repeated evaluations become inexpensive by treating uncertain parameters of a model as inputs, and an element of a model’s solution, e.g., the policy function, second moments, or the posterior kernel as the QoI. We introduce the theory of PCE and apply it to the standard real business cycle model as an illustrative example. We analyze the convergence behavior of PCE for different QoIs and its efficiency when used for estimation. The results are promising both for local and global solution methods.
Large Deformation Behavior of Plane Periodic Truss Networks. Part 1. Closed-Form Solution for Single Node Cells
Authors: Cuomo Massimo , Boutin Claude , Pannitteri Carmelo
Published: January 2025

This article focuses on the derivation of explicit descriptions of networks in large deformation through the homogenization method of discrete media. Analytical models are established for the in-plane behavior of a planar periodic truss, whose cell contains a single node, as frequently encountered in practice. The cell is composed of bars that support only axial forces and are connected by perfect hinges. For the considered type of trusses, (given that the equilibrium conditions of the node and of the cell coincide) closed-form expressions for the local behaviour in the case of large deformations can be derived. This case makes it possible to combine the non-linearities arising from large deformations on the one hand and rheological characteristics on the other, and to compare their respective effects as a function of cell morphology. The results are illustrated by the shear and extension responses of specific trusses. The analysis is carried out for bars with stiffening, linear or softening behavior. The combination of the effects of geometrical non-linearities, rheological non-linearities and anisotropy results in particularly rich behaviors of the network.
Heterogeneous fracture toughness of human cortical bone tissue
Authors: Levy Maxime , Yosibash Zohar
Published: January 2025

CT-based finite element analysis (FEA) of human bones helps estimate fracture risk in clinical practice by linking bone ash density (

$$\rho _{ash}$$

ρ

ash

) to mechanical parameters. However, phase field models for fracture prediction require the heterogeneous fracture toughness

$$G_{Ic}$$

G

Ic

, which can be derived from the critical stress intensity factor

$$K_{Ic}$$

K

Ic

, determined through various experimental methods. Due to a lack of standards for determining cortical bone’s

$$K_{Ic}$$

K

Ic

, an experimental campaign is presented using 53 cortical specimens from two fresh frozen femurs to investigate whether a correlation exists between

$$K_{Ic}$$

K

Ic

and

$$\rho _{ash}$$

ρ

ash

. We investigated various experimental techniques for correlating

$$K_{Ic}$$

K

Ic

with

$$\rho _{ash}$$

ρ

ash

. We conducted FEAs employing the phase field method (PFM) to determine the most suitable correlation among the five possible ones stemming from the experimental methods. The ASTM standard using displacement at force application point was found to be the recommended experimental method for the estimation of

$$K_{Ic}$$

K

Ic

perpendicular to osteons’ direction

$$\begin{aligned} K_{Ic} [MPa\sqrt{m}]{=}1.89\left( \rho _{ash} [gr/cc] \right) ^{1.88} \,\, R^2{=}0.5374. \end{aligned}$$

K

Ic

[
M
P
a

m

]

=
1.89

ρ

ash

[
g
r
/
c
c
]

1.88

R
2

=
0.5374
.

The corresponding statistical critical energy release rate bounds were determined:

$$\begin{aligned} G_{Ic}[N/m]= 321.94 (\rho _{ash}[gr/cc])^{1.69} \times exp(\pm 2SD), \end{aligned}$$

G

Ic

[
N
/
m
]

=
321.94

(

ρ

ash

[
g
r
/
c
c
]

)

1.69

×
e
x
p

(
±
2
S
D
)

,

with a standard deviation

$$SD= 0.30$$

S
D
=
0.30

representing a 95.4% confidence interval. The average

$$G_{Ic}$$

G

Ic

resulted in good correlations between the predicted fracture force by PFM-FEA of four representative specimens and experimental fracture forces. The proposed correlations will be used in CT-based PFM FEA to estimate the risk of hip and humeral fractures.
Prenatal diagnosis following preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions: a single centre record linkage study
Authors: Poulton Alice , Menezes Melody , Hardy Tristan , Lewis Sharon , Hui Lisa
Published: January 2025

Purpose

Professional bodies currently advise all pregnant individuals undertake confirmatory prenatal diagnostic testing following preimplantation genetic testing for monogenic conditions (PGT-M). We aimed to ascertain the uptake of prenatal diagnostic testing following PGT-M in a large single-centre population.

Methods

This observational linkage study was undertaken using routinely collected outcome data from PGT-M cycles performed at one of Australia’s largest PGT-M providers and a statewide dataset of all prenatal samples undergoing cytogenetic analysis in Victoria, Australia, between 2015 and 2022.

Results

During the study period, there were 176 clinical pregnancies following the transfer of a PGT-M-tested embryo in 132 patients. Eleven patients undertook confirmatory prenatal diagnostic testing in 12 pregnancies, representing a confirmatory testing rate of 8.3% [95% CI: 4.7–14.3%] per patient and 6.8% [95% CI: 3.9–11.5%] per pregnancy. The 176 clinical pregnancies resulted in 154 (87.5%) live births and pregnancies ongoing at the time of reporting, 21 (11.9%) pregnancy losses ≤ 20 weeks gestation, and 1 (0.6%) stillbirth.

Conclusions

Most patients who conceive following the transfer of a PGT-M-tested embryo do not undertake confirmatory prenatal diagnostic testing. The low uptake of confirmatory testing raises important considerations for genetic counselling for PGT-M and the acceptability of current clinical practice recommendations.
Comparing Summed Probability Distributions of Shoreline and Radiocarbon Dates from the Mesolithic Skagerrak Coast of Norway
Authors: Roalkvam Isak , Solheim Steinar
Published: January 2025

By developing a new methodology for handling and assessing a large number of shoreline dated sites, this paper compares the summed probability distribution of radiocarbon dates and shoreline dates along the Skagerrak coast of south-eastern Norway. Both measures have previously been compared to elucidate demographic developments in Fennoscandia, but these have not been based on probabilistic methods for shoreline dating. The findings indicate a largely diverging development of the two data sets through the Mesolithic. The number of shoreline dated sites undergoes some process of overall decrease through the period, while the radiocarbon data is characterised by a lacking signal in the earliest parts of the period and then undergoes a logistic growth that quickly plateaus and remains stable for the remainder of the period. The precise nature of this discrepancy will necessitate further substantiation and the method of shoreline dating itself still requires further testing and assessment. Having noted this, we still tentatively suggest that while the number of shoreline dated sites is not devoid of influence from a demographic signal, this measure could be more heavily influenced by mobility patterns. Conversely, we also suggest that the lacking radiocarbon data from the earliest part of the Mesolithic is in part the result of mobility patterns, but that the radiocarbon data could be reflecting population dynamics more directly.
Sorption of palladium using resorcinol–formaldehyde-thiourea discs
Authors: Ajith Nicy , Dalvi Aditi A. , Chavan T. A. , Remya Devi P. S , Swain K. K.
Published: January 2025

Sorption of Pd from acidic media was investigated using laboratory synthesized resorcinol–formaldehyde discs, functionalized with thiourea. The discs were characterized via SEM–EDS, FT-IR and EDXRF spectrometry. Pd-sorption efficiencies of the discs, evaluated using both inactive and radiotracer solutions, were compared to those of conventional strong anion exchange membranes. It was established that the disc forms are well-suited for batch separations, wherein very large volume reduction factors are the major goals. Among various de-sorbents studied, 1 M NaOH was found to be the best (~ 50% in single step).
Supporting the Advancement of a National Agenda for Pediatric Healthcare Reform: A multi-year Evaluation of a Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disabilities Program
Authors: Koob Caitlin , Griffin Sarah F. , Stuenkel Mackenzie , Cartmell Kathleen B. , Sease Kerry
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To evaluate the implementation and sustainability of the effect of a 1-year Leadership in Education for Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities (LEND) program in a southeastern state, and to examine its impact on advancing the Maternal Child Health Bureau’s (MCHB) Blueprint for Change—a national agenda for pediatric healthcare reform.

Methods

This study applies the Exploration, Preparation, Implementation, and Sustainment (EPIS) framework to rigorously evaluate LEND implementation and impact between 2018 and 2022. In-depth interviews (N = 24) were conducted among long-term (1-year) LEND trainees, via Zoom, in a southeastern state. A hybrid approach of deductive and inductive thematic analysis was conducted to identify emergent patterns and themes from trainees’ experiences, related to the EPIS constructs and national priorities.

Results

Exploration and Preparation. Trainees identified insights from multidisciplinary discussions and family panels as key facilitators to their development. Implementation. Trainees reported growth in confidence and communication and improving their service delivery, including implementation of a collaborative approach to patient care, family-centered care, and occasionally facilitating their obtainment of leadership positions. Trainees also reported systemic barriers to implementation, including time and financial constraints. Sustainability. Trainees identify their experienced shift in mindset and statewide connections as drivers for sustained change, with suggestions for follow-up events and networking opportunities to enhance the effect of LEND training.

Conclusions for Practice

These results may inform LEND objectives to enhance the statewide network and to advance a national framework for prioritizing family well-being and quality of life and access to services.
Multiplexed single-cell imaging reveals diverging subpopulations with distinct senescence phenotypes during long-term senescence induction
Authors: Sessions Garrett A. , Loops Madeline V. , Diekman Brian O. , Purvis Jeremy E.
Published: January 2025

Cellular senescence is a phenotypic state that contributes to the progression of age-related disease through secretion of pro-inflammatory factors known as the senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). Understanding the process by which healthy cells become senescent and develop SASP factors is critical for improving the identification of senescent cells and, ultimately, understanding tissue dysfunction. Here, we reveal how the duration of cellular stress modulates the SASP in distinct subpopulations of senescent cells. We used multiplex, single-cell imaging to build a proteomic map of senescence induction in human epithelial cells induced to senescence over the course of 31 days. We map how the expression of SASP proteins increases alongside other known senescence markers such as p53, p21, and p16INK4a. The aggregated population of cells responded to etoposide with an accumulation of stress response factors over the first 11 days, followed by a plateau in most proteins. At the single-cell level, however, we identified two distinct senescence cell populations, one defined primarily by larger nuclear area and the second by higher protein concentrations. Trajectory inference suggested that cells took one of two discrete molecular paths from unperturbed healthy cells, through a common transitional subpopulation, and ending at the discrete terminal senescence phenotypes. Our results underscore the importance of using single-cell proteomics to identify the mechanistic pathways governing the transition from senescence induction to a mature state of senescence characterized by the SASP.
Non-parametric Bayesian deep learning approach for whole-body low-dose PET reconstruction and uncertainty assessment
Authors: Levital Maya Fichmann , Khawaled Samah , Kennedy John A. , Freiman Moti
Published: January 2025

Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging plays a pivotal role in oncology for the early detection of metastatic tumors and response to therapy assessment due to its high sensitivity compared to anatomical imaging modalities. The balance between image quality and radiation exposure is critical, as reducing the administered dose results in a lower signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and information loss, which may significantly affect clinical diagnosis. Deep learning (DL) algorithms have recently made significant progress in low-dose (LD) PET reconstruction. Nevertheless, a successful clinical application requires a thorough evaluation of uncertainty to ensure informed clinical judgment. We propose NPB-LDPET, a DL-based non-parametric Bayesian framework for LD PET reconstruction and uncertainty assessment. Our framework utilizes an Adam optimizer with stochastic gradient Langevin dynamics (SGLD) to sample from the underlying posterior distribution. We employed the Ultra-low-dose PET Challenge dataset to assess our framework’s performance relative to the Monte Carlo dropout benchmark. We evaluated global reconstruction accuracy utilizing SSIM, PSNR, and NRMSE, local lesion conspicuity using mean absolute error (MAE) and local contrast, and the clinical relevance of uncertainty maps employing correlation between the uncertainty measures and the dose reduction factor (DRF). Our NPB-LDPET reconstruction method exhibits a significantly superior global reconstruction accuracy for various DRFs (paired t-test,

$$p<0.0001$$

p
<
0.0001

, N=10, 631). Moreover, we demonstrate a 21% reduction in MAE (573.54 vs. 723.70, paired t-test,

$$p<0.0001$$

p
<
0.0001

, N=28) and an 8.3% improvement in local lesion contrast (2.077 vs. 1.916, paired t-test,

$$p<0.0001$$

p
<
0.0001

, N=28). Furthermore, our framework exhibits a stronger correlation between the predicted uncertainty 95th percentile score and the DRF (

$$r^2=0.9174$$

r
2

=
0.9174

vs.

$$r^2=0.6144$$

r
2

=
0.6144

, N=10, 631). The proposed framework has the potential to improve clinical decision-making for LD PET imaging by providing a more accurate and informative reconstruction while reducing radiation exposure.

Graphical abstract
Key Structural Features of Microvascular Networks Leading to the Formation of Multiple Equilibria
Authors: Atkinson George , Ben-Ami Yaron , Maini Philip , Pitt-Francis Joe , Byrne Helen
Published: January 2025

We analyse mathematical models of blood flow in two simple vascular networks in order to identify structural features that lead to the formation of multiple equilibria. Our models are based on existing rules for blood rheology and haematocrit splitting. By performing bifurcation analysis on these simple network flow models, we identify a link between the changing flow direction in key vessels and the existence of multiple equilibria. We refer to these key vessels as redundant vessels, and relate the maximum number of equilibria with the number of redundant vessels. We vary geometric parameters of the two networks, such as vessel length ratios and vessel diameters, to demonstrate that equilibria are uniquely defined by the flow in the redundant vessels. Equilibria typically emerge in sets of three, each having a different flow characteristic in one of the network’s redundant vessels. For one of the three equilibria, the flow within the relevant redundant vessel will be smaller in magnitude than the other two and the redundant vessel will contain few Red Blood Cells (RBCs), if any. For the other two equilibria, the redundant vessel contains RBCs and significant flow in the two available directions. These structural features of networks provide a useful geometric property when studying the equilibria of blood flow in microvascular networks.
Modeling Innate Immunity Causing Chronic Inflammation and Tissue Damage
Authors: Matsuo Kosei , Iwasa Yoh
Published: January 2025

Mathematical models of immune responses have traditionally focused on adaptive immunity and pathogen-immune dynamics. However, recent advances in immunology have highlighted the critical role of innate immunity. In response to physical damage or pathogen attacks, innate immune cells circulating throughout the body rapidly migrate from blood vessels and accumulate at the site of injury, triggering inflammation. These cells engulf, break down, and eliminate pathogens. This innate immune response occurs much faster than adaptive immune responses, which require time for cell activation and proliferation. While inflammation helps eliminate pathogens, it can sometimes lead to chronic inflammation by triggering excessive immune responses, ultimately causing tissue damage. In this study, we examine a simple dynamical model of innate immunity. The analysis indicates that when an infection occurs, it triggers inflammation, which activates the innate immune system and initiates the activation cycle. Consequently, pathogens may be eradicated, leaving behind persistent chronic inflammation. Alternatively, the pathogens may not be eradicated, with their abundance either stabilizing at a positive level or oscillating indefinitely. The dynamics exhibit both transcritical and Hopf bifurcations. When innate immunity is activated in the absence of inflammation, pathogens are eradicated more easily, and the likelihood of oscillations in inflammation, immune responses, and pathogen abundance is reduced.
Suppressive effect of vitamin K2 (menatetrenone) against bone mineral density loss after radiotherapy in uterine cancer patients
Authors: Kaneyasu Yuko , Fujiwara Hisaya , Akita Tomoyuki , Tanaka Junko , Shibata Yuuka , Nakagawa Tomio , Koh Iemasa , Hirata Eiji , Hyodo Maki , Miyamoto Tadashi , Murakami Yuji , Nishibuchi Ikuno , Imano Nobuki , Nagata Yasushi , Kudo Yoshiki
Published: January 2025

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate whether vitamin K2 (menatetrenone) suppresses bone mineral density (BMD) loss in the irradiated region after radiotherapy (RT) in uterine cancer patients.

Materials and Methods

Our study included 34 patients who underwent whole pelvic irradiation for uterine cancer between 2001 and 2010. The patients were categorized in two groups: (1) Vitamin K2 (45 mg/day) administration group (group A) with 18 cases and (2) non-administered group (group B) with 16 cases. The duration of vitamin K2 administration was 1 year or longer. BMD was measured before and immediately, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, 1 year or more after RT.

Results

Regarding change rate in the BMD of L3-L4 which was outside the irradiated field, no significant changes were observed in BMD after radiation in either groups compared to BMD before radiotherapy. Regarding change rate in BMD of L5-S1 which was inside the irradiated field, BMD reduced significantly at 6 months after radiotherapy compared to BMD before the start of radiotherapy in Group B (P = 0.0234). However, no significant change was seen in group A. Grade 2 and 3 insufficiency fractures appeared in both groups, one in each. Regarding outside the irradiation field, one patient developed compression fracture in L2 in group B, none occurred in group A.

Conclusion

We suggest that vitamin K2 could suppress the decrease in BMD due to whole pelvic radiotherapy. Further studies are needed in the future to improve quality of life such as the prevention of insufficiency fractures.
Key Technologies for Machine Vision for Picking Robots: Review and Benchmarking
Authors: Xiao Xu , Jiang Yiming , Wang Yaonan
Published: January 2025

The increase in precision agriculture has promoted the development of picking robot technology, and the visual recognition system at its core is crucial for improving the level of agricultural automation. This paper reviews the progress of visual recognition technology for picking robots, including image capture technology, target detection algorithms, spatial positioning strategies and scene understanding. This article begins with a description of the basic structure and function of the vision system of the picking robot and emphasizes the importance of achieving high-efficiency and high-accuracy recognition in the natural agricultural environment. Subsequently, various image processing techniques and vision algorithms, including color image analysis, three-dimensional depth perception, and automatic object recognition technology that integrates machine learning and deep learning algorithms, were analysed. At the same time, the paper also highlights the challenges of existing technologies in dynamic lighting, occlusion problems, fruit maturity diversity, and real-time processing capabilities. This paper further discusses multisensor information fusion technology and discusses methods for combining visual recognition with a robot control system to improve the accuracy and working rate of picking. At the same time, this paper also introduces innovative research, such as the application of convolutional neural networks (CNNs) for accurate fruit detection and the development of event-based vision systems to improve the response speed of the system. At the end of this paper, the future development of visual recognition technology for picking robots is predicted, and new research trends are proposed, including the refinement of algorithms, hardware innovation, and the adaptability of technology to different agricultural conditions. The purpose of this paper is to provide a comprehensive analysis of visual recognition technology for researchers and practitioners in the field of agricultural robotics, including current achievements, existing challenges and future development prospects.
Counterfactual Learning on Graphs: A Survey
Authors: Guo Zhimeng , Wu Zongyu , Xiao Teng , Aggarwal Charu , Liu Hui , Wang Suhang
Published: January 2025

Graph-structured data are pervasive in the real-world such as social networks, molecular graphs and transaction networks. Graph neural networks (GNNs) have achieved great success in representation learning on graphs, facilitating various downstream tasks. However, GNNs have several drawbacks such as lacking interpretability, can easily inherit the bias of data and cannot model casual relations. Recently, counterfactual learning on graphs has shown promising results in alleviating these drawbacks. Various approaches have been proposed for counterfactual fairness, explainability, link prediction and other applications on graphs. To facilitate the development of this promising direction, in this survey, we categorize and comprehensively review papers on graph counterfactual learning. We divide existing methods into four categories based on problems studied. For each category, we provide background and motivating examples, a general framework summarizing existing works and a detailed review of these works. We point out promising future research directions at the intersection of graph-structured data, counterfactual learning, and real-world applications. To offer a comprehensive view of resources for future studies, we compile a collection of open-source implementations, public datasets, and commonly-used evaluation metrics. This survey aims to serve as a “one-stop-shop” for building a unified understanding of graph counterfactual learning categories and current resources.
Using neuroimaging to identify sex differences in adults with sports-related concussion: a systematic review
Authors: Macleod Harry , Smith Clare L. , Laycock Robin
Published: January 2025

Concussion is a common injury in sports that causes neurological damage, leading to memory loss and difficulty concentrating. Insufficient recovery time may result in significant long-term harm to individuals. Several neuroimaging techniques have been used to understand the pathophysiological changes following concussion, and how long individuals need to recover before returning to play. Despite the progress in neuroimaging concussion research, few studies have considered whether females sustain different effects on the brain and how recovery from concussion might differ from males. Thus, we conducted a systematic review of the existing literature to highlight sex differences in concussion with neuroimaging techniques. By searching four different databases, studies were selected if they used a neuroimaging technique to examine sex differences following concussion in athletes over the age of 18. After screening 2295 studies from an initial search, 15 were found to match the selection criteria. Nine papers established some difference between males and females, however many of these studies were not designed to specifically examine sex differences, and hence conclusions in this regard are somewhat limited. A further common limitation among these papers was a lack of whole brain scans, instead relying on regions of interest analyses, which reduces the ability to compare studies effectively. The current systematic review has highlighted the need for future studies to specifically consider whether, and how sex influences the impact and trajectory of brain recovery from concussion. This can then help to inform suitable amendments to current concussion return-to-play protocols for male and female athletes.
Effects of green and chemically synthesized ZnO nanoparticles on Capsicum annuum under drought stress
Authors: Guzel Deger Aysin , Çevik Sertan , Kahraman Oskay , Turunc Ersan , Yakin Ayşegül , Binzet Rıza
Published: January 2025

Nanoparticle applications have recently become a popular method due to increase the tolerance levels of plants to environmental stresses. In this study, changes induced by exogenous application of green synthesized and commercially purchased zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO NPs) (100, 500, 1000 mg/L) to drought-stressed Capsicum annuum plants were studied through comprehensive morphologic, anatomic, physiological and biochemical analyzes. While drought decreased relative water content (RWC) and leaf water potential (LWP), it increased proline, thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) content and antioxidant enzyme activities. Exogenous ZnO NPs increased RWC and LWP but they decreased TBARS and proline contents in drought-stressed plants. Furthermore, the data obtained in this study revealed that the response of the antioxidant enzyme varies depending on the concentration of the nanoparticles and the type of synthesis. However, green synthesized ZnO NPs applications (100 and 500 mg/L) were found to be much more effective in reducing the adverse effects of drought stress than those synthesized chemically. The results of this study indicated that although the response of Capsicum annuum plants to ZnO NPs applications varied according to the type and concentration under drought conditions, nanoparticle applications did not lead to a consistent stress response.
Determination of the Time-frequency Features for Impulse Components in EEG Signals
Authors: Filimonova Natalia , Specovius-Neugebauer Maria , Friedmann Elfriede
Published: January 2025

Accurately identifying the timing and frequency characteristics of impulse components in EEG signals is essential but limited by the Heisenberg uncertainty principle. Inspired by the visual system’s ability to identify objects and their locations, we propose a new method that integrates a visual system model with wavelet analysis to calculate both time and frequency features of local impulses in EEG signals. We develop a mathematical model based on invariant pattern recognition by the visual system, combined with wavelet analysis using Krawtchouk functions as the mother wavelet. Our method precisely identifies the localization and frequency characteristics of the impulse components in EEG signals. Tested on task-related EEG data, it accurately detected blink components (0.5 to 1 Hz) and separated muscle artifacts (16 Hz). It also identified muscle response durations (298 ms) within the 1 to 31 Hz range in emotional reaction studies, offering insights into both individual and typical emotional responses. We further illustrated how the new method circumvents the uncertainty principle in low-frequency wavelet analysis. Unlike classical wavelet analysis, our method provides spectral characteristics of EEG impulses invariant to time shifts, improving the identification and classification of EEG components.
Using multi-orbit cyclic subspace codes for constructing optical orthogonal codes
Authors: Özbudak Ferruh , Santonastaso Paolo , Zullo Ferdinando
Published: January 2025

We present a new application of multi-orbit cyclic subspace codes to construct large optical orthogonal codes, with the aid of the multiplicative structure of finite fields extensions. This approach is different from earlier approaches using combinatorial and additive (character sum) structures of finite fields. Consequently, we immediately obtain new classes of optical orthogonal codes with different parameters.
Examining the psychometric properties of the Children-Dyadic Almost Perfect Scale in a Türkiye sample
Authors: Doğan Raziye Yüksel , Kavruk Sevinç Zeynep , Demircioğlu Haktan , Urfa Osman
Published: January 2025

The Children-Dyadic Almost Perfect Scale (C-DAPS) is the first scale to measure parents’ perfectionism towards their children. This study assessed the psychometric properties of the translated Turkish version of the C-DAPS within a Türkiye community sample. The current study adapts and examines the psychometric properties of the Turkish version of C-DAPS, based on 625 volunteered participants, including 430 (68.8%) mothers and 195 (31.2%) fathers. Exploratory (EFA) and confirmatory (CFA) factor analyses were conducted for construct validity. For criterion validity, the relationship between subscales of the C-DAPS (high standards, order, discrepancy) with big three perfectionism (rigid, self-critical, narcissistic), parental stress and authoritarian attitude was examined using multiple linear regression. Reliability analysis involved calculating Cronbach’s Alpha and McDonald’s Omega coefficients of internal consistency. The EFA and CFA results indicated that the C-DAPS three-factor model, comprising 20 items, demonstrated the best fit. Regression analysis indicated that high standards were positively related with self-critical, rigid, and narcissistic perfectionism, while discrepancy was related with critical and narcissistic perfectionism, parental stress, and authoritarian attitude. Order was found to be related only with authoritarian attitude. Cronbach’s Alpha values for high standards, order, and discrepancy subscales of C-DAPS ranged from 0.86 to 0.90, while McDonald’s omega values ranged from 0.87 to 0.90. In conclusion, there is significant evidence for the validity and reliability of the C-DAPS and the Turkish form can be used in studies examining parents’ perfectionism towards their children.
Effects of land use/land cover change on soil physicochemical properties and soil carbon stock in Kochore district, southern Ethiopia
Authors: Miju Cherinet , Kiflu Alemayehu , Gizachew Shimelis
Published: January 2025

Land use changes from year to year due to natural and human-made factors are a serious cause of the degradation of soil properties. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the impact of land use land cover changes on selected soil physicochemical properties and soil organic carbon stocks in Kochore district, Southern Ethiopia. Satellite images (2000, 2010, and 2020) were used as sources of information for land use and land cover analysis using ArcGIS 10.3 and ERDAS Imagine 2014 software. Three land use types (cultivated, agroforestry, and grazing land) were identified through field surveys and satellite image analysis. Soil samples were collected at different depths (0–20 cm and 20–40 cm), and selected soil properties were analyzed. The results indicate that geospatial data of the land cover of agroforestry continuously increased and a decrease in grazing and cultivated in the given periods of 2000, 2010, and 2020, and soil properties revealed such as sand, bulk density, organic carbon, total nitrogen, pH, cation exchange capacity, and exchangeable bases were significantly (P < 0.001) affected by land use and soil depth. The highest content of OC (2.37), Av.P. (3.36), and TN (0.13) was observed on agroforestry land, and the lowest 1.43 and 0.08 was OC and TN respectively. The highest value of soil organic carbon stock (60.2 mg ha−1) was observed in AFL. The study suggests the deterioration of soil properties under cultivated and grazing land, emphasizing the importance of sustainable integrated soil fertility management to optimize and maintain favorable soil physicochemical properties.
Setbacks in the use of a handaxe: lithic investment and seasonality in the Early Acheulean
Authors: Clark James , Linares-Matás Gonzalo J.
Published: January 2025

From their first appearance in the archaeological record, the varying degree of biface presence in individual assemblages has long been a notable aspect of discussions surrounding the nature of the Early Acheulean. These debates have largely focused on the relative influence of random processes, site formation dynamics, raw material constraints, biological and/or cultural groupings, and differences in ecology and activity. Here, we collate published technological information from Early Acheulean assemblages 1.8–1.2 Ma, attempting to document patterns of wider inter-assemblage variability, and focus on the potential role of seasonality in structuring some of this variation. We suggest that there are relationships between a number of lithic variables in the Early Acheulean that are a reflection of consistent activity variants and patterns of landscape use, and that these variables account for discrete clusters of sites according to shared technological bases. While data on seasonality at individual sites in this period are sparse, we hypothesise that there is a likely association between the absence of handaxes and dry season patterns of hominin behaviour, which may reflect a focus on bifaces during the wetter parts of the year. The implications of these findings for the Oldowan-Acheulean transition, seasonal patterns of hominin behaviour, and Early Acheulean landscape use are discussed.
Injectable Triamcinolone Therapy for Hidradenitis Suppurativa: a Systematic Review and Treatment Recommendations
Authors: Islam Zahidul , Romanelli Sarah , Roster Katie , Tai Hansen , Zhu Tian Ran , Riaz Mohammed , Liu Mei Hong , Alicea Daniel S. , Ch’en Peter , Patton Caroline Delbourgo , Campton Kristina , Cohen Steven R.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is a chronic, inflammatory skin condition that presents with painful nodules, abscesses, and sinus tracts, significantly impacting patients' quality of life. Injectable triamcinolone acetonide is widely used to manage acute HS flares; however, there is no consensus on optimal dosing or administration techniques. This systematic review aims to review the literature, evaluate the effectiveness of triamcinolone injections for HS, and propose treatment guidelines based on existing evidence.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of studies that evaluated triamcinolone therapy for HS using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Electronic databases including PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science were searched for relevant studies. A total of 13 studies with 549 participants were included. Data were extracted on dosing, administration techniques (with and without ultrasound guidance), efficacy outcomes, and adverse events.

Results

The review included 4 retrospective cohort studies, 4 prospective cohort studies, 2 case series, 1 case report, 1 randomized controlled trial, and 1 case–control study. Intralesional triamcinolone (ILTAC) was found to be effective in reducing HS lesion size, inflammation, and patient-reported pain across multiple studies. Ultrasound-assisted injections improved precision in needle placement and lesion targeting, leading to better clinical outcomes, particularly for fistulas and abscesses. Common adverse events included localized skin atrophy and pigmentary changes, which were dose-dependent. Glycemic decompensation was noted in some patients with diabetes.

Discussion

While ILTAC is an effective option for treating acute HS flares, significant variability exists in dosing and administration techniques. Ultrasound guidance enhances the accuracy of injections and improves outcomes, particularly in more severe or complex cases. However, limitations such as inconsistent study methodologies, small sample sizes, and lack of standardization in treatment protocols hinder definitive conclusions about optimal dosing strategies.

Conclusion

Triamcinolone injections are an effective and well-tolerated treatment option for managing HS flares. Based on the evidence, we provide treatment guidelines to standardize dosing and administration techniques, including the use of ultrasound guidance where applicable. Further research is necessary to establish more precise recommendations for dosage based on lesion size and HS severity.
Antimicrobial sol-gel layers with nanodiamonds, dispergation, antimicrobial and cytotoxicity testing
Authors: Růžek Vojtěch , Louda Petr , Mitura Stanislaw , Šlamborová Irena , Exnar Petr , Karczemska Anna , Witkowski Dariusz , Łoś Katarzyna , Łoś
Published: January 2025

Sol-gel methods are widely used to prepare coatings and thin films, due to their relative technological simplicity, low cost, possibility to easily scale the coating thickness down to nanoscale layers, usage of non-toxic solvents and other advantages. Sol-gel methods may also be used to prepare antimicrobial coatings, as protection of various surfaces in locations exposed to higher concentrations of pathogens, such as medical facilities and other places with higher concentrations of people. Commonly used antimicrobial additives for sol-gel processes include metal ions or metal nanoparticles. In this study, nanodiamonds were used as an antimicrobial additive for sol-gel coatings. These nanomaterials are chemically inert, optically transparent, biocompatible, cheap and easy to both manufacture and functionalize, making them a promising and environmentally friendly material for various applications and a potentially viable alternative for other types of antimicrobial nanoadditives, which may be dangerous for the environment or toxic. The study investigated dispergation capability of nanodiamonds within sol, as well as other nanocarbon allotropes for comparison, and antimicrobial properties and cytocompatibility of sol-gel coatings with nanodiamond additive. The findings reveal that nanodiamonds have an adequate dispergation capability, improve antimicrobial activity of sol-gel coatings, synergize with antimicrobial metal ions in sol-gel coatings and don’t cause any adverse reactions on human cell cultures. Overall, this study confirmed the viability of further research of nanodiamonds as antimicrobial additives for sol-gel based coatings, as well as the possibility of their use in other types of coatings.