bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perspectives on Environmental Sustainability and Land Use Dynamics in Peri-urban Interface of Global South
Authors: Varkey Amrutha Mary , Chinnasamy Jayakumar , Johny Eby
Published: February 2025

Peri-urban transition leads to rapid spatial manifestations and environmental changes in the periphery across globe. The heterogeneous peripheral morphologies of the Global South depict land use changes, rapid real estate growth and unplanned development. Peri-urban regions face the challenges of dynamic metropolitan growth and the pressures of globalisation. Peri-urban areas differ globally; they differ in economic and social factors. The rural-urban frontier is a complex transition area in the Global South. Peri-urbanisation leads to population expansion; but often these pressures compromise environmental qualities in the Global South. Land use change is a major challenge to sustainability leading to decline in agriculture and environmental challenges. The transition process thus challenges the metropolitan cities of the Global South. This paper addresses sustainable urbanization as an alternative path essential for confronting problems of sustainability in the Global South.
Innovations in Drug Delivery and Advanced Therapeutics
Authors: Sengar Ashutosh
Published: February 2025

Advanced drug delivery systems integrated with the most novel developments in therapeutics have revamped Modern Medicine entirely by redesigning new systems finding entirely new answers to ever-widening numbers of medical conditions. Advanced drug delivery system review articles to stimulate interest often highlight roles from various such sophisticated drug delivery systems, like: liposomes proniosomes; nanoparticles, naso-pulmonary systems. The area of liposomal drug delivery remained one of the foundations of modern therapeutics, though proniosomes and nanotechnology present new ways concerning stability, bioavailability, and controlled release today. New routes of oral drug delivery such as chewable tablets, effervescent tablets, and mouth dissolving films offer options for enhanced patient-friendly, non-invasive treatments. These advanced drug delivery systems, together with personalized medicine, can be very sure that treatments can be created specifically for a particular patient for the greatest potential therapeutic benefit. Clinical applications in the pharmacology of antibiotics and herbal medicine in urolithiasis also have recorded flexibility in these systems in many clinical scenarios. It is with these emerging technologies, which are believed to be more efficient and also targeted as well as precise in their mode of action, that the future of drug delivery systems would be powered. Such advancements would allow higher precision and potency of therapeutics while this also provides a possibility for improved outcomes of personalized health care.
Content Moderator Mental Health and Associations with Coping Styles: Replication and Extension of Previous Studies
Authors: Spence Ruth , DeMarco Jeffrey
Published: February 2025

There is an increasing evidence base that demonstrates the psychological toll of content moderation on the employees that perform this crucial task. Nevertheless, content moderators (CMs) can be based worldwide and have varying working conditions. Therefore, there is a need for studies to be replicated to ensure results are robust. The current study used a large sample of commercial CMs employed by an international company to replicate the results from two previous studies which relied on an anonymous online survey. The results pertaining to mental health, wellbeing and the effectiveness of wellbeing services for this population were mostly replicated. Over a third of CMs demonstrated moderate to severe psychological distress and a quarter were experiencing low wellbeing. Further, the results suggest the potential utility for interventions that increase problem-focused problem solving, as well as a need for the efficacy of wellbeing services to be evaluated more broadly.
EFL Pronunciation Instruction in Spanish Primary Schools: From Prescribed Curriculum to Classroom Practice
Authors: Gómez González María de los Ángeles , García Muras Rebeca
Published: February 2025

This article reports on the first qualitative phase of an exploratory sequential mixed method (ESMM) research design focusing on EFL pronunciation instruction in Spanish primary schools. Firstly, it presents an analysis of the National Curriculum in light of recent policy changes and adaptations across seventeen Autonomous Communities (AACC) to assess coherence and the scaffolding of contents. Secondly, based on results from Focus Groups with eight instructors from five different schools and two different AACC, teachers' perceptions on EFL pronunciation teaching in the current curriculum change are examined according to two main strands, i.e., Curriculum Design and Development and Teacher Professional Development. The results reveal asymmetries in Curriculum Contents regarding specificity and teaching methodologies, as well as some conceptual inconsistencies and dispositions that seem to be leading to overregulation, particularly in relation to increased measures of public accountability. These appear to be heightening tensions that are causing a mismatch between the intended Curriculum and the instructor-experienced curriculum. Another key observation is that, in this scenario, the positive beliefs and attitudes of primary school teachers towards EFL pronunciation are insufficient for optimal teaching. Intervention measures and innovations are suggested to improve the situation, which may be extrapolated to other similar EFL contexts.
Attitudes of Participants of the Construction Investment Process – A Polish Voice in the Debate on Values
Authors: Kępkowicz Agnieszka , Lipińska Halina
Published: February 2025

Despite calls to counter profit- and consumption-driven urbanization, dense, concreted and overheated urban spaces remain a reality. However, the ideological assumptions and priorities for creating livable urban space are only the part of the operation chain that is the construction investment process (CIP). It’s participants (Theoreticians, Investors, Designers, Contractors, Controllers, Users) can play a role in addressing adverse urban changes through shared values. The research aimed to determine the nature of the values reflected in the attitudes of CIP participants, as identified through interviews with 12 expert representatives. The documented statements were divided into phrases relating to a single event/feature/value and assigned in tables to both CIP participants and attitude types. Drawing on C. G. Jung’s theory, six attitudes toward the CIP were identified: Thinking, Feeling, Perception, Creativity, and Equilibrium. Feeling emerged as the most frequently mentioned value, followed by Thinking. Designers and Investors garnered the most attention within the CIP, while Designers and Users exhibited the most controversial attitudes. General and specialized Contractors were rated the most favorably. The study concludes with a detailed characteristic of the attitudes and values of the six participant groups, highlighting their contributions and challenges in the construction investment process.
A Biological-Inspired Deep Learning Framework for Big Data Mining and Automatic Classification in Geosciences
Authors: Dell'Aversana Paolo
Published: February 2025

MycelialNet is a novel deep neural network (DNN) architecture inspired by natural mycelial networks. Mycelia, the vegetative part of fungi, form extensive underground networks that connect in a very efficient way biological entities, transport nutrients and signals, and dynamically adapt to environmental conditions. Drawing inspiration from these properties, MycelialNet integrates dynamic connectivity, self-optimization, and resilience into its artificial structure. This paper explores how mycelial-inspired neural networks can enhance big data analysis, particularly in mineralogy, petrology, and other Earth disciplines, where exploration and exploitation must be efficiently balanced during the process of data mining. We validate our approach by applying MycelialNet to synthetic data first, and then to a large petrological database of volcanic rock samples, demonstrating its superior feature extraction, clustering, and classification capabilities with respect to other conventional machine learning methods.
Decoding Causal Associations Between Neuropsychiatric Disorders and Rotator Cuff Tendinopathy: A Two-Sample Mendelian Randomization Study
Authors: Zhang Weizhe , Chen Ming , Huang Haozhang , Sheng Puyi
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Rotator cuff tendinopathy (RCT) contributes to over 30 million sports-related surgeries worldwide annually, as a leading cause of shoulder pain and dysfunction. Emerging evidence indicates that neuropsychiatric disorders (ND) may share overlapping etiology with tendinopathic conditions. However, no research estimates the causal relationships between ND and RCT due to inherent biases derived from confounders and reverse causation of traditional observational studies. Methods: Two-sample univariable and multivariable Mendelian Randomization (MR) analyses were applied using summary data from genome-wide association studies (GWAS) to establish causal relationships among eight main types of ND and RCT. To detect false positive findings, MR-Egger, weighted median and causal analysis using summary effect estimates (CAUSE) were employed as sensitivity test sensitivity. Body shape, lifestyle, and socioeconomic parameters were adjusted as mediators in multivariable MR to validate the robustness of the results. Results: Univariable MR revealed that genetic predisposition to attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (odds ratio [OR] 1.14, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.24, p = 0.001) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) (OR 2.23, 95% CI 1.75–2.84, p < 0.001) significantly increased the RCT risk. Major depressive disorder (MDD) showed a similar association (OR 1.21, 95% CI 1.06–1.38, p = 0.004), which was attenuated after confounder adjustment (p = 0.783). Multivariable MR confirmed ADHD (OR 1.09, 95% CI 1.01–1.18, p = 0.024) and PTSD (OR 2.00, 95% CI 1.41–2.82, p < 0.001) as robust causal factors for RCT after adjusting for the confounders. Conclusions: Our study identified ADHD and PTSD as independent genetic risk factors for RCT. These findings shed new lights on the importance of early targeted prevention and integrated clinical interventions to alleviate the RCT burden in ADHD and PTSD populations.
Methods for Extracellular Vesicle Isolation: Relevance for Encapsulated miRNAs in Disease Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Ljungström María , Oltra Elisa
Published: February 2025

Extracellular Vesicles (EVs) are nanovesicles that facilitate intercellular communication by carrying essential biomolecules under physiological and pathological conditions including microRNAs (miRNAs). They are found in various body fluids, such as blood, urine, and saliva, and their levels fluctuate with disease progression, making them valuable diagnostic tools. However, isolating EVs is challenging due to their small size and biological complexity. Here we summarize principles behind most common EV isolation methods including ultracentrifugation, precipitation, immunoaffinity, flow cytometry, ultrafiltration, size-exclusion chromatography, and microfluidics while highlighting protocol strengths and weaknesses. We also review main strategies to identify and quantify circulating miRNAs with a particular focus on EV- encapsulated miRNAs. Since these miRNAs hold special clinical interest derived from their superior stability and therapeutic potential, the information provided here should provide valuable guidance for future research initiatives in the promising field of disease diagnostic and treatment based on EV-encapsulated miRNAs.
Otolith Shape as An Alternative Method to Identify Small Bigeye Tuna (Thunnus obesus) and Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares)
Authors: Jatmiko Irwan , Gardner Caleb , Hartmann Klaas , Davies Campbell
Published: February 2025

Context. Fish identification is one of the important aspects in fisheries management. This process is occasionally challenging for small/juvenile bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) and yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) due to their similar characteristics in size and external appearance. One method to identify fish quickly and cheaply is by otolith shape analysis. Aims. This study aims to identify small bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna using otolith shape analysis. Methods. A total of 115 bigeye tuna otoliths and 186 yellowfin tuna otoliths were collected from several fishing ports in Indonesia. Statistical analysis of the otolith shape using multivariate analysis in eight classifications based on locations and length class. Key results. There is a significant difference between the shape of otolith bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna in all eight classifications (p<0.05). The difference in the otolith shape of this otolith is detected in the rostrum and antirostrum. This difference be present in all locations, particular locations, and in several length classes. Conclusion. Otolith shape analysis can be used for distinguishing between bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna. Implications. The results of this study indicate that otolith shape analysis had potential to use as a method to identify small bigeye tuna and yellowfin tuna.
Mathematical Simulation Analysis on the Performance of Floating Photovoltaic Systems with Single-Axis Solar Tracking
Authors: Prasartkaew Boonrit , Chaiyapong Paweetida , Prasartkaew Chutima
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the performance of floating photovoltaic (FPV) systems integrated with single-axis solar tracking (FPVSAT) as an innovative approach to enhancing solar energy capture. By utilizing water bodies for solar installations, FPV systems offer a dual benefit of land conservation and improved energy efficiency due to the cooling effect of the water surface. The incorporation of single-axis solar tracking further optimizes energy generation by dynamically adjusting the panels’ orientation to follow the sun's trajectory. To analyze the system, a mathematical model was developed and validated against experimental results obtained from an FPVSAT prototype tested in Mueang District, Lop Buri, Thailand. Simulations were performed using five-minute interval weather data, with comparisons made between fixed, linear tracking, and azimuth tracking configurations. The results demonstrate that single-axis tracking systems significantly enhance solar energy yield compared to fixed installations, with the azimuth tracking configuration providing the highest efficiency. The study highlights the importance of integrating solar tracking mechanisms into FPV systems, particularly in regions with variable solar conditions, to achieve sustainable energy generation. These findings underscore the potential of FPVSAT technology as a cost-effective and efficient alternative to traditional land-based PV systems.
Surviving in a Warmer Marine World…a Study on the Impact of a Thermal Effluent on Posidonia oceanica Meadows and Associated Fish Assemblages in the Maltese Islands
Authors: Marrone Alessio , Rinaldi Alessandro , Montalto Valeria , Gauci Adam , Ape Francesca , Ringeard Henri , Spoto Marco , Martinez Marco , La Marca Emanuela Claudia , Mirto Simone , Deidun Alan
Published: February 2025

Rising sea temperatures, driven by climate change, pose significant threats to coastal ecosystems. This study investigates the impact of thermal effluents from power plants, as proxies for climate-driven temperature increases, on Posidonia oceanica meadows and associated fish communities. Using a gradient-based approach, we analyzed environmental variables, seagrass indicators, fish assemblages, and functional group (FG) dynamics across a thermal gradient extending from the effluent outfall itself. Results indicate that temperature is the dominant factor influencing P. oceanica, with reduced leaf length, shoot density, and rhizome weight characterising samples closest to the effluent. Despite compensatory mechanisms, the overall photosynthetic biomass and resilience declined under thermal stress.
Fish assemblages exhibited reduced species richness and biodiversity close to the thermal effluent, with opportunistic and thermophilic species dominating. FG analysis revealed disrupted seasonal patterns, shifts in trophic dynamics, and functional compensation among species, highlighting potential ecological imbalances. Notably, transient predators thrived near the effluent, while more sedentary and temperate species were displaced.
These findings underscore the cascading effects of rising temperatures on coastal habitats such as P. oceanica meadows and on their associated communities, emphasizing the urgency for conservation measures. By identifying critical thresholds and adaptive responses, this study contributes valuable insights into the consequences of localized impacts of thermal stress on coastal biodiversity and ecosystem services.
Influence of Time Interval, Temperature, and Storage Condition on Fluoride Release and Recharge from Silorane Based Restorative Materials
Authors: Madhyastha Prashanthi S , Naik Dilip G , N Srikant , Vinodhini Rachel Sarah
Published: February 2025

Objectives: To investigate, assess and to compare the impact of time, temperature and storage on the fluoride release and to evaluate the variation in the reuptake of fluoride (after recharge) of the silorane based composites and methacrylate based composites.
Materials and methods: The samples of SBC and MBC are synthesized for investigating the fluoride release and recharge. The study has been performed after the samples conditioning in the artificial saliva at and distilled water. The amount of fluoride release at first, seventh, fourteenth and twenty eighth days followed by the re-release after recharge has been analysed with the use of fluoride selective ion electrode.
Results: SBC had higher fluoride release when compared to MBC at low temperature in artificial saliva. Fluoride release increased in day 7 but decreased over time. Fluoride re-release was greater in MBC than SBC, and it increased with time.
Conclusion: The release and recharge of fluoride are influenced by temperature, time, and storage condition. The fluoride reservoir in the restoration and its low release into the oral cavity inhibits the formation of secondary caries leading to improved longevity of the restorations. This feature can be utilized as a regimen to deliver topical fluoride in the oral cavity.
Development of High Antioxidant / High Fiber Functional Peach Nectar Containing Lutein/Lycopene and Various Dietary Fibers Using D-Optimal Mixture Design Optimization
Authors: Takalloo Masumeh , Ghanbarzadeh Babak , Soltani Mostafa , Falcone Pasquale M.
Published: February 2025

For developing a type of healthy and functional drink with high fiber and antioxidant properties, three types of dietary fiber (bamboo fiber, citrus fiber, and polydextrose) and two types of carotenoids (lycopene and lutein) were used in the peach nectar-based formulations. Based on the D-optimal mixture design, the ratio of fibers in a constant amount of fiber mixture (6 g) and the ratio of carotenoids in a constant amount of carotenoid mixture (6 mg) were selected as independent variables. 24 formulations were presented by Design Expert software and based on anti-oxidant and physical stability tests, the highest desirability was achieved by the formulation with 100% polydextrose and 100% lycopene (F8 sample) with a desirability of 0.997. This formulation showed 88% stability and 85% DPPH antioxidant activity. In addition to the F8 sample, five other samples were selected for further experiments. In the second stage, different tests including total phenol, total flavonoid, vitamin C, total fiber, minerals and trace elements, antioxidant properties (with three different methods), stability of lycopene and lutein, degradation kinetics of lycopene and lutein, rheology, and sensory evaluation were done on the selected fortified peach nectars. Experiments showed that the type of fiber in the mixture was highly effective on all measured parameters and lycopene had a greater effect on antioxidant properties than lutein.
Vitamin D in Reproductive Health Disorders: A Comprehensive Review focusing on Infertility, Endometriosis and Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Authors: van Tienhoven Ximena A , Ruiz de Chávez Gascón Jimena , Cano-Herrera Gabriela , Sarkis Nehme José Antonio , Souroujon Torun Ariela Aline , Bautista Gonzalez Maria Fernanda , Esparza Salazar Félipe , Sierra Brozón Ana Gabriela , Rivera Rosas Eder Gabriel , Carbajal Ocampo Dante , Cabrera Carranco Ramiro
Published: February 2025

Vitamin D (VD) is a fat-soluble steroid hormone with crucial physiological functions beyond calcium and bone metabolism. In recent years, the role of VD in women’s reproductive health has garnered significant attention. It has been implicated in ovarian function, follicular development, endometrial receptivity, and the regulation of steroid hormone production. VD deficiency has been associated with a range of reproductive health disorders, including Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and infertility. Studies indicate that up to 40-50% of healthy pregnant women exhibit deficient serum VD levels, which may be linked to adverse pregnancy outcomes and impaired fertility. VD plays a key role in regulating ovarian function, promoting proper follicular development, and modulating the immune response in reproductive tissues. Its deficiency has been linked to insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, and inflammatory processes, all of which contribute to the pathophysiology of reproductive disorders. This review synthesizes current research on VD's therapeutic potential in managing these disorders and enhancing fertility outcomes, emphasizing the importance of maintaining adequate VD levels for optimal reproductive health. Understanding the reference values for VD in reproductive medicine is essential for optimizing fertility treatments and improving clinical outcomes in women with reproductive health disorders.
Physical, Mechanical, Barrier, and Optical Properties of Sodium Alginate/Gum Arabic/Gluten Edible Films Plasticized with Glycerol and Sorbitol
Authors: Syarifuddin Adiansyah , Haliza Nur , Izzah Nur , Tahir Mulyati Muhammad , Dirpan Andi
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to produce sodium alginate/gum Arabic/gluten edible films and to evaluate the effect of glycerol and sorbitol in various concentrations on the physical, mechanical, barrier, and optical properties of the films. Using solvent casting, an edible film based on sodium alginate/gum Arabic/gluten was plasticized with glycerol and sorbitol at 2%, 4%, and 6% (w/v). The properties of edible films were then characterized by physical, mechanical, barrier, and optical properties. Decreased solubility, tensile strength, and water vapor transmission rate were obtained as higher glycerol and sorbitol concentrations were added. Films plasticized with 6% glycerol and 6% sorbitol had the lowest solubility, tensile strength, and water vapor transmission rate. In addition, films plasticized with glycerol, regardless of concentration, were more transparent than sorbitol. Still, the addition of glycerol and sorbitol was insignificant in the thickness properties and L value of the films. The absorption peaks of the Fourier transform infrared spectra pattern of films plasticized with sorbitol and glycerol were similar, confirming the interaction between plasticizers and biopolymers used in this study. Sorbitol and glycerol are compatible with sodium alginate/gum Arabic/gluten, and it is confirmed that these plasticizers influence the films' physical, mechanical, barrier, and optical properties.
Forced Dynamic of Elastically Connected Nano-Plates and Nano-Shells in Winkler-Type Elastic Medium
Authors: Stamenkovic Marija , Pavlovici Ivan , Simonovic Jul;ijana , Borzan Cristina , Păcurar Ancuţa , Păcurar Răzvan
Published: February 2025

With the continuous advancement of manufacturing technology, the demand for small and lightweight structures for various engineering applications has increased. This study examines forced vibration behaviour of an orthotropic nano-system consisting of an elastically connected nano-plate and a doubly curved shallow nano-shell. Both nano-elements (plate and shell) are simply supported and embedded in a Winkler-type elastic medium. Utilizing the Eringen constitutive elastic relation, Kirchhoff-Love plate theory, and Novozhilov linear shallow shell theory, we derive a system of four coupled nonhomogeneous partial differential equations (PDEs) describing the forced transverse vibrations of the system. For forced vibrations, we employ detailed numerical method to solve the differential equations. The forced vibration analysis is conducted using modal analysis. A key finding of this study is that the upper excited element of the nano-system (nano-plate) exhibits smaller amplitude transverse vibrations when the lower element is curved (nano-shell). This phenomenon is observed by comparing the amplitude of forced transverse responses between an elastically connected system of two nano-plates (ECSTNP) and a system composed of a nano-plate and a nano-shell (ECSNPS). We analyse the effects of the nonlocal parameter, external excitation, damping proportional coefficients, and the radii of curvature of the nano-shell on the ECSNPS in detail. The study reveals that the amplitude of the excited upper nano-plate decreases with increasing nonlocal parameter and decreasing radii of curvature of the nano-shell. Additionally, the damping proportional coefficients and external excitation significantly influence the transverse displacements of both the nano-plate and nano-shell. Specifically, an increase in damping proportional coefficients reduces the transverse displacements, while an increase in external excitation to the upper plate increases them. This study provides measurable data relating the vibration characteristics of the nano-system to its geometric and material properties. The proposed mathematical model of the ECSNPS can be applied in the development of new nano-sensors, which respond to transverse vibrations based on the geometry of the nano-shell element.
Unhealed Healers. Depression and Suicidal Tendencies of Female Nurses as Barriers to Providing Assistance to Individuals in Suicidal Crisis
Authors: Pękacka Martyna , Koweszko Tytus , Gierus Jacek , Silczuk Andrzej
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Studies from various countries indicate that nurses are a professional group at increased risk of depression and suicide. Hospital work involves managing life-and-death situations and coping with physical and emotional pain and suffering alongside patients and their families. The lack of adequate mental health and trauma support can adversely affect not only the mental state of nurses, but also their ability and competence to provide support to people experiencing mental crises, including suicidal thoughts. The aim of the study was to assess the epidemiology of depression and suicidal behavior in nursing staff and to examine their competence to talk about suicide. Methods: The cross-sectional study comprised 400 nurses employed in various hospital wards across Poland. Researchers utilized a demographic-descriptive questionnaire, an original questionnaire assessing competence in discussing suicidal topics, and two standardized psychometric tools: the Suicidal Behavior Questionnaire (SBQ-R) and the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9). The survey was administered via an online questionnaire. Results: The study revealed that nurses are a professional group at high risk of depression and suicide. The highest severity of symptoms was reported among those receiving psychological support and psychiatric treatment. However, these individuals demonstrated greater competence in providing assistance to people in suicidal crises compared to those who did not receive such help. The use of psychological and psychiatric help was a decisive factor in whether a nurse would become a "wounded healer" or an “walking wounded unhealed healer". Conclusions: Given the magnitude of mental health and suicide risks among nurses, it is imperative to implement primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention measures for both nursing staff and students preparing to enter the profession.
The Role of Environmental Product Declarations in the Decarbonization of Building Materials and Components
Authors: Asdrubali Francesco , Grazieschi Gianluca , Gandola Dante Maria
Published: February 2025

As energy efficiency measures have reduced the operational carbon footprint of buildings, the significance of embodied carbon has increased. Effort by all construction players, including material and component manufacturers, is needed to avoid burden shifting towards embodied impacts. Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) can represent useful instruments to push the decarbonization of construction materials. This study examines EPDs to assess the embodied GWP of insulation materials, bricks, concrete, cement, steel and natural stones. The variance structure of the GWP was studied for each material, the main variation parameters were detected, and statistically significant categories were identified. For each category reference values were calculated (i.e. mean or median values, lower and upper interquartile ranges, box plot whiskers) which can be useful for manufacturers to reduce the impact of their products, for EPDs verifiers to detect outliers, and for designers to determine safety coefficients for using EPDs data in the early design stage. Consolidated results were achieved for materials produced through standardized processes whose GWP variability was mainly structured upon universal physical properties or production techniques. More localized or artisanal products require further segmentation and additional GWP data. The limited number of EPDs for building components precluded statistically significant analysis.
Transitioning from TinyML to Edge GenAI: A Review
Authors: Giorgetti Gloria , Pau Danilo Pietro
Published: February 2025

Generative AI (GenAI) models are designed to produce realistic and natural data, such 1
as images, audio, or written text. Due to their high computational and memory demands, these 2
models traditionally run on powerful remote compute servers. However, there is growing interest 3
in deploying GenAI models at the edge, on resource-constrained embedded devices. Since 2018, 4
the TinyML community has proved that running fixed topology AI models on edge devices offers 5
several benefits, including independence from the Internet connectivity, low-latency processing, and 6
enhanced privacy. Nevertheless, deploying resource-consuming GenAI models on embedded devices 7
is challenging since the latter have limited computational, memory, and energy resources. This review 8
paper aims to evaluate the progresses made to date in the field of Edge GenAI, an emerging area of 9
research within the broader domain of EdgeAI which focuses on bringing GenAI on edge devices. 10
Papers released between 2022 and 2024 that addressed the design and deployment of GenAI models 11
on embedded devices have been identified and described. Additionally, their approaches and results 12
have been compared. This manuscript contributes to understand the ongoing transition from TinyML 13
to Edge GenAI and provides valuable insights to the AI research community on this emerging and 14
impactful, quite under-explored field.
Metadichol-Induced KLF Expression in PBMC Cells. Links SIRTs, NRs, TLRs, and Circadian genes. A Systems-Wide Biology Approach
Authors: Raghavan Palayakotai
Published: February 2025

Metadichol expresses all nuclear receptors, the TLR family (1-10), the Sirtuin family (1-7), all 48 nuclear receptors, and all Yamanaka factors: Oct 4, Sox2, KLF4, C-myc, and circadian genes: Per1, CRY1, BMAL1, CLOCK, and PPARGC1A. The transcription factor family Kruppel-like factors (KLFs) is essential for cell proliferation, differentiation, and development. Our tiny chemical, Metadichol, a long-chain lipid alcohol nanoemulsion, modulates KLF family 1-18 expression. Concentration dependent. At 1 ng/ml, 16 of 18 KLF transcription factors are downregulated, save KLF 4 and 18. Small chemical modulators of KLF expression and activity offer new therapeutic approaches for many disorders, including cancer. In immunotherapy, KLF10 inhibition may reduce T regulatory cell numbers or function to boost anti-tumor immunity. Small compounds substituting KLF4 in cellular reprogramming could increase iPSC production efficiency and safety in regenerative medicine. In addition to KLF family expression results, this research will examine the regulation mechanisms of KLFs, nuclear receptors, SIRTs, circadian genes, Toll-like receptors, Klotho, P53, and PPARGC1A in cancer. These protein families form a dynamic web of interconnected signaling networks that affect cancer biology, including the mechanisms of crosstalk between them, the roles of individual members in different cancer types, and the tumor microenvironment's effect on these interactions. Our research reveals that molecular biology, genetics, immunology, and clinical oncology must be integrated to understand cancer's intricate networks. This will allow novel therapeutic techniques to target gene family connections, improving cancer therapy results and tumor biology understanding.
Converging Information-Theoretic Measures of Metacognitive
Efficiency
Authors: Fitousi Daniel
Published: February 2025

The ability of participants to monitor the correctness of their own decisions by rating their
confidence is a form of metacognition. This introspective act is crucial for many aspects of cognition
including perception, memory, learning, emotion regulation, and social interaction. Researchers
assess the quality of confidence ratings according to bias, sensitivity, and efficiency. To do so, they
deploy such quantities as meta − d′ − d′ , or M− ratio [1,2]. These measures compute the expected
accuracy level of performance in the primary task (Type 1) from the secondary confidence rating task
(Type 2). However, these measures have several limitations. For example, they relay on unwarranted
parametric assumptions, and they fall short of accommodating the granularity of confidence ratings.
Two recent papers by Dayan [3] and Fitousi [4] have proposed information-theoretic measures of
metacognitive efficiency that can ameliorate these problems. Dayan suggested meta − I, and Fitousi
proposed: meta − U, meta − KL, and meta − J . These authors demonstrated the convergence of
their measures on the notion of metacognitive efficiency using simulations, but did not apply their
measures to real empirical data. The present study set to test the convergence of these measures in a
concrete behavioral task using two independent data sets. The present results supported the viability
of these novel indexes of metacognitive efficiency, and provide substantial empirical evidence for
their convergence.
The Protective Role of ILC3s Glycolysis in Myocardial Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury: Unveiling Metabolic and Immune Regulatory Mechanisms
Authors: Huijun Ma , He Sun , JianKun Cui , Yingwei Wang
Published: February 2025

Myocardial ischemia-reperfusion injury (MIRI) is a pathological process where the myocardium suffers further damage after blood flow is restored, posing a significant threat to patient health. Traditional treatment methods have many limitations, while innate lymphoid cells type 3 (ILC3s) and their glycolysis have shown important functions and great potential in MIRI. ILC3s, originating from common lymphoid progenitors, are widely distributed in various tissues and possess multiple functions such as anti-inflammation, immune balance regulation, promotion of cardiomyocyte regeneration, enhancement of cell survival, and activation of endogenous protective mechanisms, all of which rely on their glycolysis process. ILC3s glycolysis affects the pathological and physiological process of MIRI and its prognosis through mechanisms involving glucose uptake, metabolic pathways, metabolic sensing molecules, signal transduction pathways, cytokine secretion, metabolic product signaling, antioxidant enzyme and reactive oxygen species regulation, and apoptosis signaling pathways.
In terms of treatment, key enzymes, metabolic sensing molecules, and signaling pathways in the glycolysis pathway of ILC3s are expected to become new therapeutic targets. Activating ILC3s glycolysis can promote cardiomyocyte regeneration and repair, enhance cell survival, and improve clinical prognosis. Moreover, the regulation of ILC3s glycolysis can be combined with drug therapy, ischemic preconditioning, stem cell therapy, and other means to exert synergistic effects. By detecting the glycolysis characteristics and ILC3s functional status of patients, it is hoped to achieve precision and individualization in MIRI treatment.
However, current research still faces many challenges, including incomplete understanding of the specific mechanisms of ILC3s glycolysis, insufficient precision and effectiveness of regulatory means, and clinical transformation limited by patient individual differences and ethical considerations. In the future, it is necessary to strengthen the combination of basic research and clinical application, break through these barriers, fully explore the application value of ILC3s glycolysis in MIRI treatment, provide more effective treatment plans for patients, and improve survival quality and prognosis.
Artificial Intelligence Detection of Occlusive Myocardial Infarction from Electrocardiograms Interpreted as “Normal” by the Conventional Algorithm
Authors: Karim Shifa R. , Helseth Hans C. , Baker Peter O. , Keller Gabriel A. , Meyers H. Pendell , Herman Robert , Smith Stephen W.
Published: February 2025

Background: Some authors advocate that ECGs with conventional computer algorithm (CCA) interpretations of “normal” need not be immediately reviewed. However, such ECGs may actually manifest findings of acute coronary occlusion myocardial infarction (OMI). We sought to determine if such cases can be detected by artificial intelligence (AI).

Methods: Retrospective series (2014 - 2024) of cases with ≥ 1 pre-angiography ECGs with proven OMI outcome with a CCA ECG interpretation of “normal.” OMI outcome was defined as 1) diagnosis of acute type I MI, 2) angiographic culprit with intervention, 3) one of the following: a) TIMI 0-2 flow, or b) TIMI-3 or unknown flow, with high peak troponin or new wall abnormality. Each ECG was retrospectively interpreted by the PMcardio OMI AI ECG model. The primary analysis was the diagnostic performance of AI for the interpretation of CCA “normal” ECGs for OMI.

Results: 42 patients with OMI met inclusion criteria. The first ECG was interpreted as “normal” by the CCA in 88% of cases; AI interpreted 81% as OMI and 86% as abnormal. Of 78 total ECGs interpreted by the CCA, 73% were diagnosed as “normal.” Of this 73%, AI identified 81% as abnormal and 72% as OMI.

Conclusion: The CCA may interpret an ECG manifesting OMI as “normal.” AI not only recognized these as abnormal, but, in 81% of patients, correctly recognized OMI on the first ECG, and recognized 72% of all CCA “normal” ECGs as OMI. It was rare for AI to diagnose a normal ECG in any OMI patient.
Exploring Protein-Protein Ligation Approaches for the Cytosolic Delivery of Antigens Using AIP56
Authors: Pinheiro Bruno , Moura Ana C. , Oliveira Pedro N. , Azevedo Jorge E. , do Vale Ana , dos Santos Nuno M.S.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The intracellular delivery of biologics, particularly large cargoes like proteins, remains a challenge in biotechnology and biomedicine. The modular structure of well-characterized AB toxins allows different cargoes to be grafted, creating a target-specific biotechnological tool capable of cytosolic delivery. Methods: In this study, we employed protein-protein fusion strategies - SpyCatcher003, SnoopCatcher, and SnoopLigase - to generate chimeras between the delivery region of AIP56 (AIP56L258-N497) and β-lactamase and performed functional delivery assays. Results: The chimeras were successfully obtained using these strategies and in vitro β-lactamase activity assays confirmed the catalytic activity of the chimeras. Importantly, we show that the chimera BlaL19-W286::SnoopAIP56L258-N497 delivered β-lactamase into the cytosol of J774.A1 macrophages. Conclusions: AIP56 delivery region transporting other cargo directly to the cytosol of antigen-presenting cells might be a promising platform for antigen delivery. This study highlights the potential of protein-protein fusion strategies to create versatile, antigenically distinct toxin-based delivery systems for therapeutic applications.
Comparative Evaluation of Urolithin A and Spermidine: A Duel for Autophagic and Mitophagic Dominance in Dietary Supplements
Authors: Borsky Pavel , Holmannova Drahomira , Soukup Ondrej , Fiala Zdenek , Philippova Tereza , Hanzlova Michaela , Borska Lenka
Published: February 2025

The increasing focus on longevity and cellular health has brought into the spotlight two key compounds, urolithin A (UroA) and spermidine, for their promising roles in autophagy and mitophagy. UroA, a natural metabolite derived from ellagitannins, stimulates mitophagy through pathways such as PINK1/PRKN, leading to improved mitochondrial health and enhanced muscle function. On the other hand, spermidine, a polyamine found in various food sources, induces autophagy by regulating key signaling pathways such as AMPK and SIRT1, thus mitigating age-related cellular decline and promoting cardiovascular and cognitive health. While both UroA and spermidine target cellular maintenance, they affect overlapping as well as distinct signaling pathways. Thus, they do not have completely identical effects, although they overlap in many ways, and offer varying benefits in terms of metabolic function, oxidative stress reduction, and longevity. This review article aims to describe the mechanisms of action of UroA and spermidine not only on the maintenance of cellular health, which is mediated by the induction and maintenance of autophagy and mitophagy, but also on their potential clinical relevance. The analysis presented here suggests that although both compounds are safe and offer substantial health benefits and are involved in both autophagy and mitophagy, the role of UroA in mitophagy places it as a targeted intervention for mitochondrial health, whereas the broader influence of spermidine on autophagy and metabolic regulation may provide more comprehensive anti-aging effects.
Immunoglobulin-Related Fibroinflammatory Diseases of Uncertain Etiology - Polarized Isotype Switching Connects an Ancient with A Contemporary Disease
Authors: Ng Chi Sing
Published: February 2025

IgG4 is an unusual immunoglobulin (Ig) and is the least component of IgG in humans. It is often asymmetrical and heterobivalent with weak Fc (fragment crystallizable region)-dependent effector function and ineffective complement activation; thus playing an unclear role in immune functions. IgE is an uncommon Ig, being important mostly in allergy and type 2 immunity. There are 2 rare chronic Ig-related fibroinflammatory diseases, namely IgG4-related disease (IgG4RD) and Kimura disease (KD), characterized by IgG4- or IgE-positive plasma cells are prominent in the affected tissues, with or without tissue interstitial or plasma elevations of the same Ig. The etiology of these 2 Ig-related diseases is unclear, though it appears that the pathogenesis in both is related to polarized Ig heavy chain isotype switching, concomitant with other cellular, cytokine and chemotaxin interactions that culminates in the characteristic pathologic manifestations of inflammation and fibrosis. IgG4RD and KD, despite having overlapping and differing features, may be connected by the similar pathogenetic polarized Ig isotype switching.
Acute Kidney Injury Secondary to Abdominal Compartment Syndrome: Biomarkers, Pressure Variability, and Clinical Outcomes
Authors: Muğlu Harun , İnan Kahraman Eslem , Sünger Erdem , Murt Ahmet , Bilici Ahmet , Gorgulu Numan
Published: February 2025

Abdominal compartment syndrome (ACS) is a severe clinical condition caused by in-tra-abdominal hypertension (IAH), often observed in surgical and trauma patients. However, ACS can also develop in non-surgical patients with massive ascites, leading to acute kidney injury (AKI) due to renal hypoperfusion. This study investigates the association between intra-abdominal pressure (IAP) changes, renal biomarkers, and mortality in patients with ACS-related AKI.
A prospective cohort study was conducted on 24 hospitalized patients with asci-tes due to malignancy, cirrhosis, or heart failure. IAP was measured via the trans-vesical method on the 1st and 7th days of hospitalization. Serum and urinary biomarkers, including kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), neutrophil gelati-nase-associated lipocalin (NGAL), and interleukin-6 (IL-6), were assessed for their cor-relation with IAP changes. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality, and sec-ondary outcomes included AKI progression and the effect of paracentesis on IAP re-duction.
The overall in-hospital mortality rate was 50%. Patients who survived had sig-nificantly lower IAP on the 7th day compared to those who died (14.9 ± 3.5 mmHg vs. 20.2 ± 5.6 mmHg, p = 0.01). A 25% reduction in IAP was associated with improved kid-ney function and increased survival (p < 0.001). Urinary KIM-1 and serum NGAL levels showed a moderate correlation with IAP (r = 0.55, p = 0.02 and r = 0.61, p = 0.018, re-spectively), while IL-6 levels were significantly higher in non-survivors (p = 0.03). Pa-racentesis was associated with improved survival outcomes (p = 0.04).
ACS is a critical but often overlooked cause of AKI in non-surgical patients with massive ascites. Lowering IAP significantly improves renal function and reduces mor-tality. Urinary KIM-1 and serum NGAL may serve as useful biomarkers for monitoring IAP changes. Early identification and management of IAH through timely interven-tions such as paracentesis and volume control strategies could improve patient out-comes.
Rosette Trajectory MRI Reconstruction With Vision Transformers
Authors: Yalcinbas Muhammed Fikret , Ozturk Cengizhan , Ozyurt Onur , Emir Uzay , Bagci Ulas
Published: February 2025

An efficient pipeline for Rosette trajectory Magnetic Resonance Imaging reconstruction is proposed, combining the inverse Fourier transform with a Vision Transformer (ViT) network enhanced with a convolutional layer. This method addresses the challenges of reconstructing high-quality images from non-Cartesian data by leveraging the ViT’s ability to handle complex spatial dependencies without extensive pre-processing. The Inverse Fast Fourier Transform provides a robust initial approximation, which is refined by the ViT network to produce high-fidelity images. This approach outperforms established deep learning techniques for Normalized Root Mean Squared Error and Peak Signal-to-Noise Ratio scores, offers better runtime performance, and remains competitive with respect to Structural Similarity Index Measure scores and relative contrast.