bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
YOLO-YSTs: An Improved YOLOv10n-Based Method for Real-Time Field Pest Detection
Authors: Huang Yiqi , Liu Zhenhao , Zhao Hehua , Tang Chao , Liu Bo , Li Zaiyuan , Wan Fanghao , Qian Wanqiang , Qiao Xi
Published: February 2025

The use of yellow sticky traps is a green pest control method that utilizes the pests’ attraction to the color yellow. The use of yellow sticky traps not only controls pest populations but also enables monitoring, offering a more economical and environmentally friendly alternative to pesticides. However, the small size and dense distribution of pests on yellow sticky traps lead to lower detection accuracy when using lightweight models. On the other hand, large models suffer from longer training times and deployment difficulties, posing challenges for pest detection in the field using edge computing platforms. To address these issues, this paper proposes a lightweight detection method, YOLO-YSTs, based on an improved YOLOv10n model. The method aims to balance pest detection accuracy and model size and has been validated on edge computing platforms. This model incorporates SPD-Conv convolutional modules, the iRMB inverted residual block attention mechanism, and the Inner-SIoU loss function to improve the YOLOv10n network architecture, ultimately addressing the issues of missed and false detections for small and overlapping targets while balancing model speed and accuracy. Experimental results show that the YOLO-YSTs model achieved precision, recall, mAP50, and mAP50–95 values of 83.2%, 83.2%, 86.8%, and 41.3%, respectively, on the yellow sticky trap dataset. The detection speed reached 139 FPS, with GFLOPs at only 8.8. Compared with the YOLOv10n model, the mAP50 improved by 1.7%. Compared with other mainstream object detection models, YOLO-YSTs also achieved the best overall performance. Through improvements to the YOLOv10n model, the accuracy of pest detection on yellow sticky traps was effectively enhanced, and the model demonstrated good detection performance when deployed on edge mobile platforms. In conclusion, the proposed YOLO-YSTs model offers more balanced performance in the detection of pest images on yellow sticky traps. It performs well when deployed on edge mobile platforms, making it of significant importance for field pest monitoring and integrated pest management.
Systematic Identification of Phosphate Transporter Family 1 (PHT1) Genes and Their Expression Profiling in Response to Low Phosphorus and Related Hormones in Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn.
Authors: Zhou Yanyu , Fan Jianjiang , Wu Qingtao , Wang Haihua , Huang Xiaoyan , Liao Limei , Xie Huan , Peng Xixu
Published: February 2025

Accumulating evidence suggests that the plasma membrane-localized phosphate transporter 1 (PHT1) family plays a fundamental role in the absorption, translocation, and re-mobilization of phosphorus in plants. Buckwheat (Fagopyrum spp.) exhibits high efficiency in phosphate uptake and wide adaptability to grow in under-fertilized soils. Despite their physiological importance, a systematic analysis of PHT1 genes in buckwheat has not been conducted yet. In this study, we performed a genome-wide identification and expression profile of the PHT1 gene family in Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn). A total of eleven putative PHT1 genes (FtPHT1;1 to 1;11) were identified with an uneven distribution on all the F. tataricum chromosomes except for chromosomes 2, 3, and 5. All the FtPHT1s share the conserved domain GGDYPLSATIxSE, a typical signature of PHT1 transporters. A phylogenetic analysis indicated that FtPHT1 proteins could be clustered into four distinct subgroups, well supported by the exon–intron structure, consensus motifs, and the domain architecture. A gene duplication analysis suggested that tandem duplication may largely contribute to the expansion of the FtPHT1 gene family members. In silico predictions of cis-acting elements revealed that low-phosphate-responsive elements, such as W-box, P1BS, and MBS, were enriched in the promoter regions of FtPHT1 genes. Quantitative real-time PCR assays showed differential but partially overlapping expression patterns of some FtPHT1 genes in various organs under limited Pi supply and hormone stimuli, implying that these FtPHT1 transporters may be essential for Pi uptake, translocation, and re-mobilization, possibly through signaling cross-talk between the low phosphate and hormones. These observations provide molecular insights into the FtPHT1 gene family, which paves the way to a functional analysis of FtPHT1 members in the future.
Lattice Dynamics and Thermal Properties of TixZr1-xNiSn Half-Heusler Alloys
Authors: Sharma Prince
Published: February 2025

Half-Heusler alloys are promising materials for thermoelectric applications, yet the impact of the compositional disorder on their lattice dynamics remains incompletely understood. This study investigates the effect of systematic Zr substitution on the lattice dynamics and thermal properties of TixZr1-xNiSn half-Heusler alloys using first-principles calculations. Through careful analysis of phonon dispersions, density of states, and thermodynamic properties, it is revealed that Zr substitution (25%, 50%, and 75%) introduces minimal structural distortion while enhancing system stability. It is shown that increasing Zr content systematically modifies the phonons, particularly affecting the high-frequency optical modes above 5 THz. Notably, with Zr content, these findings provide valuable insights for tailoring the thermal properties of half-Heusler alloys for high-temperature applications in thermoelectric devices and components.
Mitochondrial Genome of Grapsus albolineatus and Insights into the Phylogeny of Brachyura
Authors: Zhang Xue , Tang Sheng , Chen Yaohui , Liu Qiuning , Tang Boping
Published: February 2025

Brachyura is among the most diverse groups of crustaceans, with over 7000 described species. Crab mitogenomes are important for understanding molecular evolution and phylogenetic relationships. Grapsus albolineatus exhibits specific rearrangements compared with the Pancrustacean ground pattern and other Brachyura species. The gene arrangement of G. albolineatus is similar to that of ancestral crustaceans, barring that of the translocated trnH gene. In phylogenetic analyses, the Bayesian inference estimation was observed to be superior to the maximum likelihood estimation when the nodal support values were compared. Considering the results of the gene rearrangement pattern and phylogenetic analysis, we speculate that G. albolineatus belongs to Grapsidae. Our comparative study indicated that mitogenomes are a useful phylogenetic tool at the subfamily level within Brachyura. The findings indicate that mitogenomes could be a useful tool for systematics in other Brachyuran species.
Changes and Correlation Between Hormones, Immunoglobulins, and Minerals in Blood Serum and Hair of Tianzhu White Yaks of Different Ages and Gender
Authors: Deng Yunqi , Shi Bingang , Qi Youpeng , Luo Zhihao , Cui Changze , Chen Shaopeng , Zhou Xuelan , Zhao Zhidong , Zhang Xiaolan , Hu Jiang
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Hair growth can function as an indicator of an animal’s health and nutritional status, furnishing a valuable means for early diagnosis and timely modifications to management practices, and is influenced by hormones, the immune system, and the levels of minerals within the animal’s body. (2) Methods: In this study, a total of 81 yaks were selected and divided into three groups according to their ages (1–2 years, 3–4 years, 5–6 years), and the concentrations of melatonin, dihydrotestosterone, IgA, IgG, and IgM in their blood serum and the levels of Ca, Mg, Zn, Fe, and P in both their blood serum and hair were detected. (3) Results: The levels of melatonin and dihydrotestosterone in yaks aged 1–2 years were significantly higher than those of other age groups (p < 0.001). In addition, the concentration of melatonin in male yaks was markedly greater than that in female yaks (p < 0.05). When it came to immunoglobulins, the IgA level in 1–2-year-old yaks was strikingly higher than those in yaks aged 3–4 years and 5–6 years (p < 0.05). In terms of mineral elements, the concentrations of calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron in the blood serum of 1–2-year-old and 5–6-year-old yaks were significantly elevated compared to those in 3–4-year-old yaks. However, there was no notable difference between the 1–2-year-old and 5–6-year-old groups. The correlation analysis showed that there was a significant correlation between DHT and the levels of melatonin and IgA in yaks. Additionally, a significant correlation was observed between IgA and IgG, as well as between IgA and the levels of Fe, Mg, and Ca. It is likely that they jointly regulate the hair growth and immune processes of yaks. (4) Conclusions: There are positive correlations among melatonin, dihydrotestosterone, and IgA in the blood serum and the content of Fe and Mg in the hair to varying degrees, implying these indicators may jointly regulate yak hair growth and immune status. These research findings provide data support for applied research into evaluating the overall health status of yaks through the growth status of hair or by measuring the mineral content in hair in a non-invasive way.
Changing Epidemiology of Carbapenemases Among Carbapenem-Resistant Enterobacterales in a Greek Tertiary Care Hospital in Athens, 2020 to 2023
Authors: Koumaki Vasiliki , Voudanta Eleni , Michelaki Aikaterini , Orfanidou Maria , Vagiakou Eleni , Vrioni Georgia , Tsakris Athanassios
Published: February 2025

Background: Carbapenemase-producing Enterobacterales (CPEs) represent a significant global health threat, particularly in the context of nosocomial infections. The current study constitutes a retrospective epidemiological survey that aimed to provide updated data on the prevalence and characteristics of carbapenemases among carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales (CREs) in a Greek tertiary hospital in Athens during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Results: A total of 2021 non-duplicate CPE clinical isolates were detected. A significant increase in the number of carbapenemase-positive Enterobacterales was revealed during the study period (p < 0.05). KPC remained the predominant carbapenemase type through all four years of the survey, representing 40.7%, 39.9%, 53.5%, and 45.7% of the CPE isolates, respectively. However, a rapid transition from VIM to NDM metal-β-lactamase types was revealed, changing the epidemiological image of carbapenemases in the hospital setting. Notably, among the CPEs, antimicrobial resistance rates were significantly raised in the post-COVID-19 period (2022 and 2023) compared to the first study year (2020) for almost all the tested antibiotics, including those characterized as last-resort antibiotics. Methods: CREs were identified and subjected to screening for the five most prevalent carbapenemase genes [Klebsiella pneumoniae carbapenemase (KPC), Verona integron-borne metallo-β-lactamase (VIM), New Delhi metallo-β-lactamase (NDM), imipenemase (IMP), and oxacillin-hydrolyzing (OXA-48)] using a lateral flow immunoassay, and the CREs recovered from blood cultures were analyzed using a FilmArray system. Their clinical and epidemiological characteristics, as well as their antimicrobial susceptibility profiles, were also subjected to analysis Conclusions: Given this alarming situation, which is exacerbated by the limited treatment options, the development of new, effective antimicrobial agents is needed. The continued monitoring of the changing epidemiology of carbapenemases is also imperative in order to undertake rational public health interventions.
Discovering Skin Anti-Aging Potentials of the Most Abundant Flavone Phytochemical Compound Reported in Siam Violet Pearl, a Medicinal Plant from Thailand by In Silico and In Vitro Assessments
Authors: Aonsri Chaiyawat , Kuljarusnont Sompop , Tungmunnithum Duangjai
Published: February 2025

Currently, nutraceuticals and functional food/cosmeceutical sectors are seeking natural molecules to develop various types of phytopharmaceutical products. Flavonoids have been reported in antioxidant and many medical/pharmacological activities. Monochoria angustifolia or Siam violet pearl medicinal plant is the newest species of the genus Monochoria C. Presl, which have long been consumed as food and herbal medicines. Though previous work showed that apigenin-7-O-glucoside is the most abundant antioxidant phytochemical found in this medicinal plant, the report on anti-aging activity is still lacking and needs to be filled in. The objective of this work is to explore anti-aging capacities of the most abundant antioxidant phytochemical reported in this plant using both in silico and in vitro assessments. In addition, pharmacokinetic properties were predicted. Interestingly, the results from both in silico and in vitro analysis showed a similar trend that apigenin-7-O-glucoside is a potential anti-aging agent against three enzymes. The pharmacokinetic properties, such as adsorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion and toxicity (ADMET), of this compound are also provided in this work. The current study is also the first report on anti-aging properties of this Thai medicinal plant. However, the safety and efficacy of future developed products from this compound and clinical study should be determined in the future.
A Hybrid Model for Risk-Based Strategic Planning in Open-Pit Mining: Integrating Deterministic, Stochastic, and ISO 31000 Approaches
Authors: Markovic Petar , Stevanovic Dejan , Kolonja Bozo , Slavkovic Dragana , Krzanovic Daniel
Published: February 2025

The strategic planning of open-pit mining projects is highly influenced by geological variability, economic fluctuations, and operational uncertainties. Traditional deterministic optimization models often fail to account for these uncertainties, leading to potentially misleading economic evaluations. This paper proposes a hybrid model that integrates deterministic and stochastic optimization methods, following the principles of the ISO 31000 risk management framework, to comprehensively quantify uncertainty through key parameters affecting strategic mine planning. Monte Carlo simulations were applied to generate probability distributions of input parameters, including metal prices, mining and processing costs, and ore grade variability, allowing for a more robust financial assessment. The results demonstrate that while the deterministic approach estimates an NPV of USD 130.8 million, the stochastic model yields an average NPV of USD 155.5 million with a standard deviation of USD 76.5 million, highlighting the significant variability in financial outcomes. Risk assessment using Value at Risk (VaR) and Conditional Value at Risk (CVaR) further quantifies potential financial losses, revealing a 3% probability of project unprofitability. The developed methodology provides a structured approach to integrating uncertainty into mine planning, enabling more reliable economic evaluations and improving decision-making in strategic mining operations.
Automation and Robotics Pilot Lines in the Context of Industry 5.0
Authors: Alonso Rubén , Sánchez Tomás F. , Alfaro Diego A. , Cruz Yarens J. , Villalonga Alberto , Castaño Fernando
Published: February 2025

Pilot lines have become a key element in modern industry. The demands for resilience, human-centricity, and sustainability in Industry 5.0, combined with technological innovations, highlight the critical role of these lines in the new industrial paradigm. Pilot lines facilitate the validation of processes and the reduction in uncertainties, making them essential tools for future industries. This article examines the current state of pilot lines and evaluates their alignment with Industry 5.0 principles. As part of this analysis, the GAMHE 5.0 pilot line is presented as a line designed with a focus on automation and robotics, meeting the requirements of the industries of the future. This article also details a series of case studies conducted on the pilot line, demonstrating its flexibility and adaptability. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of small-scale lines are analyzed within the context of Industry 5.0, emphasizing their importance in balancing technology, human factors, and sustainability.
Extending Power Electronic Converter Lifetime in Marine Hydrokinetic Turbines with Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Barton Samuel , Brekken Ted K. A. , Cao Yue
Published: February 2025

Hydrokinetic turbines (HKTs) are a promising renewable energy source due to the consistency and high energy density in river and tidal resources. One of the primary barriers to the widespread adoption of HKT technologies is a high levelized cost of energy (LCOE). Considering the marine operating environment, the operation and maintenance costs are substantial. The power electronic converter, a key element in the electrical energy conversion system, is a common point of failure in direct-drive turbine applications—leading to increased maintenance efforts. This work presents a reinforcement learning (RL) method built within a quadratic feedback torque control framework to balance energy generation with power electronic device lifetime. The effectiveness of the RL-based control scheme is compared against a static baseline controller through two year-long tidal case studies. The results showed that the proposed method reduced cumulative damage on the device by upwards of 75% but reduced energy generation by up to 25.2%. Using a custom real-time cost estimation function that considers the sale of energy and an estimate of the costs associated with operating a device at a given temperature, it was found that the RL method can increase net income by up to 45.4% depending on the energy market conditions.
A Novel Variable-Step Algorithm for DC-Side Voltage Stability Control Strategy in UPQC to Improve Power Quality
Authors: Song Kai , Li Ningning , Li Cong , Lian Zihui , Li Hongxu , Sun Jiawen , Jiang Shulin , Huang Boyan
Published: February 2025

With the development of semiconductor technology, the increasing number of power electronic converters and nonlinear loads has further exacerbated power-quality issues in the grid. To address this, this paper presents an improved DC-side voltage control strategy for UPQC, aiming to enhance power quality under complex conditions. First, an adaptive filter is integrated into the linear active disturbance rejection control (LADRC) to address control accuracy issues caused by noise and parameter variations. To solve the voltage sag problem resulting from the filter, the effects of fixed-step and various variable-step algorithms within the filter are analyzed, and the optimal control strategy is identified. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed arctangent function-based variable step-size algorithm (VAV-LADRC) strategy effectively improves the UPQC system’s performance in mitigating voltage sags, swells, and harmonics under dynamic load changes, enhancing the stability of the DC-side voltage. To further validate the generalizability of the method, a co-simulation of a photovoltaic power-generation system with the UPQC is conducted, simulating variations in solar irradiance. The results show that the proposed method maintains excellent control performance under complex conditions, providing a better practical solution for the efficient use of green energy.
The Effects of 4-Week Respiratory Muscle Training on Cardiopulmonary Parameters and Cognitive Function in Male Patients with OSA
Authors: Stavrou Vasileios T. , Vavougyios George D. , Tsirimona Glykeria , Boutlas Stylianos , Santo Marinela , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios , Bargiotas Panagiotis , Gourgoulianis Konstantinos I.
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a 4-week respiratory muscle training (RMT) intervention versus continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) on cardiorespiratory parameters and cognitive function in patients with OSA. Twenty-eight male patients with OSA were divided into two groups (RMTgroup n = 14 and CPAPgroup n = 14) and we recorded cardiopulmonary parameters and completed the questionnaires for cognitive impairment (MoCA) and sleep quality (PSQI) before and after 4 weeks. We observed differences before and after the intervention in cardiopulmonary parameters: RMTgroup: breathing reserve (p < 0.001) and oxygen breathing (p = 0.002), at the end of the exercise test and pulse-respiratory quotient at rest (p < 0.001), end of exercise (p = 0.020), and recovery (p < 0.001), mean arterial pressure (RMTgroupp = 0.035, CPAPgroupp = 0.032); cognitive function assessment: RMTgroup: 7% improvement in MoCAscore (p < 0. 001). and in the attention–working memory domain by 13% (p = 0.001), CPAPgroup: improvement in the short-term memory recall domain by 28% (p = 0.001) and in the visuospatial domain by 18% (p = 0.027); sleep quality scores: RMTgroup: 22% improvement in PSQIscore (p = 0.013), and 50% reduction in ‘cannot breathe comfortably’ domain (p = 0.013), CPAPgroup: 31% increase in ‘waking in the middle of the night or early in the morning’ domain (p = 0.044). Our findings support the implementation of RMT programs in patients with OSA as an effective and beneficial practice to promote exercise and reduce symptoms of sleep disturbance.
O/C Isotopic and EPR Signature of Marble from the Apuan Alps (Italy): A Critical Review
Authors: Coli Massimo , Di Benedetto Francesco , Buccianti Antonella
Published: February 2025

A critical review of studies concerning the attribution of the provenance of marble from the Apuan Alps (Italy) (AAM) used for historical–monumental buildings and artefacts is proposed based on its O/C isotopic and EPR signature. First, a summary of the geological origin of AAM and its geo-structural evolution and setting is presented. A review of the exploitation history of AAM is then discussed. This geological and historical information is used as categorical information to better constrain the literature multimethodic database, containing numerous data, including O/C isotopic and EPR spectroscopic parameters. A robust multivariate statistical analysis of the combination of all these data is performed. The results point to the fact that the O/C isotopic and EPR signature can help in attributing an analysed AAM sample to a marble extraction district, and to a certain extent also to a site, whereas the discrimination of the individual quarry appears to not yet be achievable.
A Novel Approach to Incremental Diffusion for Continuous Dataset Updates in Image Retrieval
Authors: Tang Zili , Yang Fan , Lou Jiong , Li Jie
Published: February 2025

Diffusion is well known for its success in improving retrieval performance by exploiting the local structure of data distribution. Some recent works have focused on improving its efficiency by shifting the computing burden offline. However, we find that efficient offline diffusion handles continuously updating datasets with difficulty, which directly hinders its application in the real world. Unlike previous methods that apply diffusion to the entire gallery, we introduce an anchor graph to serve as an agent of the complete gallery graph. By doing that, we empower diffusion with the ability of retrieving newly added images at acceptable computational cost. We demonstrate that our proposed method is a good approximation of diffusion featuring fast online search speed and the ability of handling growing data. Moreover, experiments on benchmark datasets show that the proposed method outperforms the state of the art by a large margin with proper parameter settings.
Continuous Cooling Transformation of Tool Steels X153CrMoV12 and 100MnCrW4: Analysis of Microstructure and Hardness Changes
Authors: Krbata Michal , Kohutiar Marcel , Escherova Jana , Klučiar Patrik , Studeny Zbynek , Trembach Bohdan , Beronská Naďa , Breznická Alena , Timárová Ľudmila
Published: February 2025

The aim of this work is to perform a detailed dilatometric analysis of the decomposition of austenite during the cooling process using experimentally derived continuous cooling transformation (CCT) diagrams for two specific tool steels, X153CrMoV12 Bohdan Bolzano, Bratislava, Slovakia and 100MnCrW4. The dilatometric curves were compared with metallographic evaluations using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). In addition, hardness measurements were performed to obtain additional information about the mechanical properties of the materials. All experimental work was performed using a DIL 805A. The accuracy of the resulting CCT diagrams was verified by comparing them with those calculated with the JMatPro software v12.4. The cooling rates ranged from 20 °C/s to 0.01 °C/s, depending on the specific type of steel tested. The novelty of this research is the combination of experimental and simulation methods to analyze the influence of alloying elements on the kinetics of phase transformations in tool steels. It was found that one of the most significant factors affecting the CCT diagrams is the weight percentage of alloying elements in the steels. These results clearly show that increasing the weight percentage of the content of alloying elements has a significant impact on the accuracy of the simulation results derived from the JMatPro software.
Increased VA-ECMO Pump Speed Reduces Left Atrial Pressure: Insights from a Novel Biventricular Heart Model
Authors: Kasavaraj Anirudhan , Said Christian , Boss Laurence Antony , Matus Vazquez Gabriel , Stevens Michael , Jiang Jacky , Adji Audrey , Hayward Christopher , Jain Pankaj
Published: February 2025

Background and aims: The effect of veno-arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA-ECMO) on left atrial pressure (LAP) in the presence of interventricular interaction and the Frank–Starling mechanism is unknown. We developed and validated a mock circulatory loop (MCL) incorporating a novel, 3D-printed biventricular heart model and Frank–Starling algorithm, and used this model to assess the determinants of LAP during VA-ECMO support. Methods: The MCL was designed to allow a separate ventricle or biventricular configuration, with or without an active Frank–Starling mechanism. The biventricular model with Frank–Starling mechanism was validated in terms of (1) the presence and degree of ventricular interactions; (2) its ability to simulate Frank–Starling physiology; and (3) its capacity to simulate normal and pathological cardiac states. In the separate ventricle and biventricular with Frank–Starling models, we assessed the effect on LAP of changes in mean aortic pressure (mAoP), ECMO pump speed, LV contractility and ECMO return flow direction. Results: In the biventricular configuration, clamping RA inflow decreased RAP, with a concurrent decrease in LAP, consistent with direct ventricular interaction. With a programmed Frank–Starling mechanism, decreasing RAP was associated with a significant reduction in both LV outflow and LV end-systolic pressure. In the biventricular model with a Frank–Starling algorithm, the MCL was able to reproduce pre-defined normal and pathological cardiac output, and arterial and ventricular pressures. Increasing aortic pressure caused a linear increase in LAP in the separate ventricle model, which was attenuated in the biventricular model with Frank–Starling mechanism. Increasing ECMO pump speed caused no change in LAP in the separate ventricle model (p = 0.75), but significantly decreased LAP in the biventricular model with Frank–Starling mechanism (p = 0.039), with stabilization of LAP at the highest pump speeds. Changing the direction of VA-ECMO return flow did not affect LAP in either the separate ventricle (p = 0.91) or biventricular model with Frank–Starling mechanism (p = 0.76). Conclusions: Interventricular interactions and the Frank–Starling mechanism can be simulated in a physical, biventricular MCL. In their presence, the effects of VA-ECMO on LAP are mitigated, with LAP reduction and stabilization at maximal VA-ECMO speeds.
Simplatab: An Automated Machine Learning Framework for Radiomics-Based Bi-Parametric MRI Detection of Clinically Significant Prostate Cancer
Authors: Zaridis Dimitrios I. , Pezoulas Vasileios C. , Mylona Eugenia , Kalantzopoulos Charalampos N. , Tachos Nikolaos S. , Tsiknakis Nikos , Matsopoulos George K. , Regge Daniele , Papanikolaou Nikolaos , Tsiknakis Manolis , Marias Kostas , Fotiadis Dimitrios I.
Published: February 2025

Background: Prostate cancer (PCa) diagnosis using MRI is often challenged by lesion variability. Methods: This study introduces Simplatab, an open-source automated machine learning (AutoML) framework designed for, but not limited to, automating the entire machine Learning pipeline to facilitate the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer (csPCa) using radiomics features. Unlike existing AutoML tools such as Auto-WEKA, Auto-Sklearn, ML-Plan, ATM, Google AutoML, and TPOT, Simplatab offers a comprehensive, user-friendly framework that integrates data bias detection, feature selection, model training with hyperparameter optimization, explainable AI (XAI) analysis, and post-training model vulnerabilities detection. Simplatab requires no coding expertise, provides detailed performance reports, and includes robust data bias detection, making it particularly suitable for clinical applications. Results: Evaluated on a large pan-European cohort of 4816 patients from 12 clinical centers, Simplatab supports multiple machine learning algorithms. The most notable features that differentiate Simplatab include ease of use, a user interface accessible to those with no coding experience, comprehensive reporting, XAI integration, and thorough bias assessment, all provided in a human-understandable format. Conclusions: Our findings indicate that Simplatab can significantly enhance the usability, accountability, and explainability of machine learning in clinical settings, thereby increasing trust and accessibility for AI non-experts.
Investigating Neurophysiological, Perceptual, and Cognitive Mechanisms in Misophonia
Authors: Patro Chhayakanta , Wasko Emma , Prabhu Prashanth , Srinivasan Nirmal Kumar
Published: February 2025

Misophonia is a condition characterized by intense, involuntary distress or anger in response to specific sounds, often leading to irritation or aggression. While the condition is recognized for its emotional and behavioral impacts, little is known about its physiological and perceptual effects. The current study aimed to explore the physiological correlates and perceptual consequences of misophonia through a combination of electrophysiological, perceptual, and cognitive assessments. Seventeen individuals with misophonia and sixteen control participants without the condition were compared. Participants completed a comprehensive battery of tests, including (a) cortical event-related potentials (ERPs) to assess neural responses to standard and deviant auditory stimuli, (b) the spatial release from the speech-on-speech masking (SRM) paradigm to evaluate speech segregation in background noise, and (c) the flanker task to measure selective attention and cognitive control. The results revealed that individuals with misophonia exhibited significantly smaller mean peak amplitudes of the N1 and N2 components in response to oddball tones compared to controls. This suggests a potential underlying neurobiological deficit in misophonia patients, as these components are associated with early auditory processing. However, no significant differences between each group were observed in the P1 and P2 components regarding oddball tones or in any ERP components in response to standard tones. Despite these altered neural responses, the misophonia group did not show differences in hearing thresholds, speech perception abilities, or cognitive function compared to the controls. These findings suggest that while misophonia may involve distinct neurophysiological changes, particularly in early auditory processing, it does not necessarily lead to perceptual deficits in speech perception or cognitive function.
THOP1 Is Entailed in a Genetic Fingerprint Associated with Late-Onset Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Climer Sharlee
Published: February 2025

In a systematic explorative study of genetic patterns on chromosome 19, we discovered a pattern comprising 23 SNP alleles that is significantly associated with late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (AD). This association was validated using two independent datasets. The pattern includes thimet oligopeptidase (THOP1), which has a long and disputatious relationship with AD. It also spans solute carrier family 39 member 3 (SLC39A3) and small glutamine-rich tetratricopeptide repeat co-chaperone alpha (SGTA) and is upstream from DIRAS family GTPase 1 (DIRAS1). We utilized population data to observe the frequencies of this genetic pattern for 11 different ancestries and noted that it is highly common for Europeans and relatively infrequent for Africans. This research provides a distinct genetic signature for AD risk, as well as insights into the complicated relationship between this disease and THOP1.
Lyophilized Extract from the Larvae of the Blowfly Lucilia sericata as a New Strategy for the Management of Chronic Wounds
Authors: Hoff Norman-Philipp , Gestmann Falk Peer , Jansen Theresa Maria , Janßen Sarah , Petersdorf Sabine , Homey Bernhard , Gerber Peter Arne , Mehlhorn Heinz
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Chronic wounds represent a growing challenge for the aging population, significantly impairing their quality of life, increasing the frequency of medical consultations, and imposing substantial healthcare costs. Chronic wounds are prone to complications, including local and systemic infections, and in severe cases, amputations. The therapeutic use of live larvae from the blowfly Lucilia sericata (biological debridement) has regained attention for its ability to debride necrotic tissue and stimulate granulation. Despite its benefits, this therapy is constrained by the logistical challenges of producing and delivering live larvae and by patient adherence issues. Objectives: This study aimed to develop a lyophilized extract of Lucilia sericata larvae and evaluate its efficacy in treating chronic wounds. Methods: A lyophilized maggot extract (Larveel®, Alpha-Biocare GmbH, Neuss, Germany) of the larvae of Lucilia sericata was produced under GMP conditions. In a total of ten patients with chronic refractory wounds, the extract was used in individual therapeutic trials and its effect on bacterial colonization and wound healing was investigated. Wound healing was documented photographically and measured visually in terms of a reduction in the wound slough, an increase in the granulation tissue, and a reduction in the wound area. Results: Of the ten patients, three discontinued their treatment due to P. aeruginosa colonization. In seven patients, significant fibrin reduction, granulation, and wound healing occurred, with two achieving complete closure and four showing advanced epithelialization. Conclusions: In 7 of the 10 patients, the application of the extract led to a marked reduction in wound slough, and improved granulation and the progression of wound healing. These effects are likely attributable to the extract’s ability to disrupt bacterial biofilm formation. The findings suggest that this novel therapeutic approach may provide a practical and effective alternative to live larval therapy for managing chronic wounds.
DNA Methylation and Demethylation in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: Associations with Clinicopathological Characteristics and the Chemotherapy Response
Authors: Tarhonska Kateryna , Wichtowski Mateusz , Wow Thomas , Kołacińska-Wow Agnieszka , Płoszka Katarzyna , Fendler Wojciech , Zawlik Izabela , Paszek Sylwia , Zuchowska Alina , Jabłońska Ewa
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive cancer subtype with limited treatment options due to the absence of estrogen, progesterone receptors, and HER2 expression. This study examined the impact of DNA methylation and demethylation markers in tumor tissues on TNBC patients’ response to neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) and analyzed the correlation between 5-methylcytosine (5-mC) and 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5-hmC) and clinicopathological characteristics, offering new insights into the predictive value of these epigenetic markers. Methods: The study included 53 TNBC female patients, 19 of whom received neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NACT) before surgery. Global DNA methylation and demethylation levels were quantified using an ELISA-based method to measure 5-mC and 5-hmC content in DNA isolated from pre-treatment biopsy samples (in patients undergoing NACT) and postoperative tissues (in patients without NACT). Results: In patients who received NACT, those with disease progression had significantly higher pretreatment levels of 5-hmC (p = 0.028) and a trend toward higher 5-mC levels (p = 0.054) compared to those with pathological complete response, partial response, or stable disease. Higher 5-mC and 5-hmC levels were significantly associated with higher tumor grade (p = 0.039 and p = 0.017, respectively). Additionally, a positive correlation was observed between the Ki-67 proliferation marker and both 5-mC (rS = 0.340, p = 0.049) and 5-hmC (rS = 0.341, p = 0.048) levels in postoperative tissues. Conclusions: Our study highlights the potential of global DNA methylation and demethylation markers as predictors of tumor aggressiveness and chemotherapy response in TNBC. Further research in larger cohorts is necessary to validate these markers’ prognostic and predictive value.
The Role of Well-Being, Divergent Thinking, and Cognitive Reserve in Different Socio-Cultural Contexts
Authors: Garau Francesca , Antonietti Alessandro , Bonfiglio Natale Salvatore , Madeddu Beatrice , Crepaldi Maura , Giannì Jessica , Fusi Giulia , Colautti Laura , Borsa Virginia Maria , Palmiero Massimiliano , Rusconi Maria Luisa , Penna Maria Pietronilla
Published: February 2025

Background: Many protective factors promote psychological well-being (PWB) in the elderly and contribute to healthy aging, such as engagement, positive emotions, and cognitive reserve (CR), which includes education, leisure, and work activities. CR sustains cognitive functioning and positively correlates with creativity, particularly divergent thinking (DT), helping older adults cope with everyday challenges and enhancing their PWB. Objectives: The present study aimed to investigate the relationships between DT, CR, PWB, memory functions, depression, stress, and anxiety indexes even in the Blue Zone (BZ), an area known for extraordinary longevity and high PWB. Methods: A total of 165 Italian healthy older adults (Mage = 73.8, SD = 6.7) from Milan (MI), Bergamo (BG), Cagliari (CA), and BZ were enrolled and divided into four groups according to their origin. Generalized linear models (GLMs) with normal and gamma link functions were used. Results: BZ presented higher DT and PWB indices than the cities but lower CR, particularly in education. Conclusions: This study highlights the influence of DT in supporting cognitive functions and PWB, suggesting that PWB and DT are key protective factors in aging.
Radiogenomic Landscape of Metastatic Endocrine-Positive Breast Cancer Resistant to Aromatase Inhibitors
Authors: Khanyile Richard , Chipiti Talent , Hull Rodney , Dlamini Zodwa
Published: February 2025

Breast cancer poses a significant global health challenge and includes various subtypes, such as endocrine-positive, HER2-positive, and triple-negative. Endocrine-positive breast cancer, characterized by estrogen and progesterone receptors, is commonly treated with aromatase inhibitors. However, resistance to these inhibitors can hinder patient outcomes due to genetic and epigenetic alterations, mutations in the estrogen receptor 1 gene, and changes in signaling pathways. Radiogenomics combines imaging techniques like MRI and CT scans with genomic profiling methods to identify radiographic biomarkers associated with resistance. This approach enhances our understanding of resistance mechanisms and metastasis patterns, linking them to specific genomic profiles and common metastasis sites like the bone and brain. By integrating radiogenomic data, personalized treatment strategies can be developed, improving predictive and prognostic capabilities. Advancements in imaging and genomic technologies offer promising avenues for enhancing radiogenomic research. A thorough understanding of resistance mechanisms is crucial for developing effective treatment strategies, making radiogenomics a valuable integrative approach in personalized medicine that aims to improve clinical outcomes for patients with metastatic endocrine-positive breast cancer.
Electron Beam Irradiation Modified UiO-66 Supported Pt Catalysts for Low-Temperature Ethyl Acetate Catalytic Degradation
Authors: Chen Jiani , Wang Yanxuan , Huang Jianghua , Ma Shuting , Zhang Yiyang , Bi Fukun , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: February 2025

Nowadays, volatile organic compounds (VOCs) increasingly jeopardize ecosystem sustainability and human well-being. In this study, UiO-66 and its different electron beam (EB) irradiation doses (100, 300, 500 kGy) modified materials supported Pt catalysts, Pt/UiO-66 and Pt/UiO-66-X (X = 100, 300, and 500, representing the irradiation doses), were synthesized, and a series of characterizations were conducted on the samples. On this basis, the effectiveness of these catalysts was evaluated through the degradation of ethyl acetate. The study findings indicated that the sample irradiated at 100 kGy demonstrated superior catalytic performance. Thereafter, extensive tests with regard to water resistance, stability, and cycle performance indicated that the Pt/UiO-66-100 catalyst was characterized by satisfactory reusability and catalytic stability, even when faced with high heat and humidity. Further work with in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and thermal desorption–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (TD-GC–MS) uncovered the process of degradation of ethyl acetate. This research provides a guideline for the design of high-performance VOC degradation catalysts through EB modification.
Potential Benefits of Adding Alendronate, Celecoxib, Itraconazole, Ramelteon, and Simvastatin to Endometrial Cancer Treatment: The EC5 Regimen
Authors: Kast Richard E.
Published: February 2025

Metastatic endometrial cancer continues to be a common cause of death as of 2024, even after maximal use of all currently available standard treatments. To address this problem of metastatic cancer generally in 2025, the drug repurposing movement within oncology identifies medicines in common general medical use that have clinical or preclinical experimental data indicating that they interfere with or inhibit a specific growth driving element identified in a given cancer. The drug repurposing movement within oncology also uses data from large scale in vitro screens of thousands of drugs, looking for simple empirical growth inhibition in a given cancer type. This paper outlines the data showing that five drugs from general medical practice meet these evidence criteria for inhibition of endometrial cancer growth, the EC5 regimen. The EC5 regimen uses the osteoporosis treatment drug, alendronate; the analgesic drug, celecoxib; the antifungal drug, itraconazole; the sleep aid, ramelteon; and the cholesterol lowering drug, simvastatin. Side effects seen with these drugs are usually minimal and easily tolerated by patients.
Fly Ash-Supported Photocatalysts: Synthesis, Applications, and Advances in Modification Technology
Authors: Lu Cheng-Gong , Jiao Chu-Jie , Zhang Xiu-Cheng , Lin Wen-Cong , Chen Xue-Fei
Published: February 2025

Fly ash, a primary solid waste product of coal combustion, poses severe threats to human health and the environment due to its massive accumulation. Leveraging the modified porous structure and engineered adsorptive properties of fly ash, its integration with nano-photocatalytic materials can achieve dispersion and stabilization of the photocatalyst, significantly enhancing photocatalytic activity while enabling a synergistic effect between adsorption and photocatalysis. This paper focuses on the issue of agglomeration in semiconductor photocatalytic materials and briefly reviews the preparation methods and applications of modified fly ash-supported photocatalytic materials from both domestic and international perspectives in recent years. Initially, the properties and modification techniques of fly ash are analyzed, with a special emphasis on three methods for preparing fly ash-based photocatalytic composites: the sol-gel method, hydrothermal synthesis, and liquid-phase precipitation. A comparative analysis of the advantages and disadvantages of these three methods is conducted. Furthermore, the performance of the materials and the positive impacts of fly ash-composite photocatalysts are analyzed in terms of applications such as the degradation of pollutants in water, the degradation of NOx and VOCs gaseous pollutants, self-cleaning properties, and CO2 reduction capabilities. These analyses indicate that fly ash primarily serves as an adsorbent and carrier in these applications. However, as a carrier, fly ash possesses a limited number of active sites, and its modification technology is not yet fully mature. Additionally, research in this area is still in the experimental stage and has not transitioned to engineered production. Therefore, there is a need for continuous improvement in fly ash modification techniques. Furthermore, additional research should be conducted on functional building materials loaded with fly ash-supported photocatalytic materials to enhance their practicality.
The Fatigue Behavior of TC4 and Ti60 Dissimilar Titanium Alloy Joints Welded by Electron Beam
Authors: Wang Shiqing , Zhu Xiangyong , Zhai Wenyan , Gao Qian , Lu Yongxin
Published: February 2025

During use, titanium alloy structural components may experience sudden overloads or occasional loads, which can reduce their fatigue life and accelerate structural failure. To study the fatigue behavior of TC4/Ti60 joints, this paper uses electron beam welding technology to obtain TC4/Ti60 dissimilar joints. The results show that the microstructure changes during the welding process, with the weld zone being relatively uniform, primarily consisting of coarse α′ phase. The near heat-affected zone on the TC4 side consists of α′, while on the Ti60 side, in addition to the α′ phase, there is a small amount of residual α phase. Fatigue tests reveal that as the pre-deformation increases, the fatigue life gradually decreases. During the early stages of fatigue, the joint exhibits cyclic hardening, which transitions to cyclic softening as the test progresses, ultimately leading to failure. Fatigue fracture analysis reveals that all fatigue samples failed on the TC4 side, with no failure observed in the weld zone. This is likely due to the presence of martensite, which gives the weld zone higher strength than the TC4 base materials. Additionally, fatigue cracks initiated from surface or near-surface defects, with ductile fractures being predominant.