bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HPV Self-Sampling Promotion Among African American (AA) and Sub-Saharan African (SAI) Immigrant Women: Adaptation and Usability Testing
Authors: Adegboyega Adebola , Mudd-Martin Gia , Schoenberg Nancy E. , Dignan Mark
Published: February 2025

Background: Cervical cancer (CC) rates have declined nationally but rates remain high in Black women with most cases occurring among unscreened and under-screened women. This paper describes the adaptation, acceptability, and useability of an education intervention, “Health is Wealth: A Cervical Health Intervention”, to promote cervical screening and reduce perceived barriers to CC screening among two subgroups of Black women: African American (AA) and sub-Saharan African immigrant (SAI) women. Methods: In this paper, we describe the process of adapting the Health is Wealth intervention using the Barrera and Castro adaptation framework. The iterative adaptation process included formative focus groups (n = 30 participants) to gather information, expert feedback (n = 4), and usability testing (n = 7). Results: The systematic process resulted in the modification of educational intervention components. Several aspects of the intervention were modified, and core elements of the original intervention were preserved. The usability testing findings suggest the intervention would support the objective of promoting cervical cancer screening uptake among AA and SAI women. Conclusions: Adaptation of an evidence-based intervention is necessary to ensure contextually and culturally appropriateness for target populations, particularly for minoritized populations. We demonstrated that an evidence-based intervention for Pap screening can be adapted for HPV-self-sampling promotion with target community input.
Influence of FOXP3 rs2280883 and rs3761548 Variants on IL-10 and TGF-β1 Serum Levels and Plaque Psoriasis Risk in the Mexican Population
Authors: Hernández-Bello Jorge , Preciado-Aguiar Miriam Sarahi , Muñoz-Valle José Francisco , Baños-Hernández Christian Johana , García-Arellano Samuel , Alvarado-Navarro Anabell
Published: February 2025

Plaque psoriasis (PP) is a chronic immune-mediated skin disorder with a genetic basis, characterized by abnormal T-cell responses. This study investigated the role of FOXP3 gene variants rs2280883 and rs3761548 in T-cell regulation through their effects on IL-10 and TGF-β1 cytokine levels and their association with PP risk. A case-control study was conducted, including 101 individuals with PP and 106 healthy controls from the Mexican population. Genotyping of FOXP3 variants was performed using PCR-RFLP, and cytokine levels were measured with ELISA kits. Significant differences in allele and genotype frequencies of the rs2280883 variant were observed between PP patients and controls, suggesting an association with an increased risk of PP. IL-10 levels were found to be elevated in PP patients, regardless of FOXP3 gene variants, indicating that cytokine dysregulation in PP may involve alternative pathways independent of FOXP3-mediated regulatory T-cell (Treg) function. No significant differences were detected in TGF-β1 levels or rs3761548 genotype frequencies across the study groups. In conclusion, the rs2280883 variant in the FOXP3 gene is significantly associated with a higher risk of developing PP in the Mexican population, while dysregulated IL-10 levels suggest a complex cytokine interaction beyond Treg activity.
RETRACTED: Mannino et al. Beta-Caryophyllene, a Plant-Derived CB2 Receptor Agonist, Protects SH-SY5Y Cells from Cadmium-Induced Toxicity. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 15487
Authors: Mannino Federica , Pallio Giovanni , Imbesi Chiara , Scarfone Alessandro , Puzzolo Domenico , Micali Antonio , Freni José , Squadrito Francesco , Bitto Alessandra , Minutoli Letteria , Irrera Natasha
Published: February 2025

The journal retracts the article titled “Beta-Caryophyllene, a Plant-Derived CB2 Receptor Agonist, Protects SH-SY5Y Cells from Cadmium-Induced Toxicity” [...]
Optimization and Benchmarking of RT-LAMP-CRISPR-Cas12a for the Detection of SARS-CoV-2 in Saliva
Authors: Lynch Courtney R. H. , Drummond Revel S. M. , Jelley Lauren , Baker Lauren , Smit Erasmus , Fleming Rachel , Billington Craig
Published: February 2025

Resource-limited settings and supply chain difficulties faced throughout the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the development of rapid and alternative methods of detecting SARS-CoV-2. These methods include reverse-transcription loop-mediated isothermal amplification (RT-LAMP), reverse-transcription recombinase polymerase amplification (RT-RPA), and CRISPR-Cas12a fluorescence detection. We describe RT-LAMP, RT-RPA, and CRISPR-Cas12a assays for the detection of the N and E-gene amplicons of SARS-CoV-2 and the optimization of various assay components, including incubation temperatures, Cas12a enzymes, reporter molecules, and the use of a lyophilized RT-LAMP master mix. We also describe the testing of a one-tube RT-LAMP-CRISPR-Cas12a assay. The one-tube assay showed promise in reducing hands-on time and improving time-to-result. We found no improvements in assay sensitivity with RT-RPA, but did achieve detection at a lower copy number with the lyophilized RT-LAMP master mix compared to liquid reagent (50 vs. 100 copies at 20 min). When used to detect the presence of SARS-CoV-2 RNA in clinical saliva samples from 75 infected patients, the discriminatory ability of the optimized RT-LAMP-CRISPR Cas12a assay was found to be comparable with RT-qPCR, with a minor reduction in sensitivity.
Cognitive Function, Sleep, and Neuroinflammatory Markers in Mice Exposed to Very Long-Term Intermittent Hypoxia
Authors: Puech Clementine , Badran Mohammad , Barrow Max B. , Gozal David
Published: February 2025

Chronic intermittent hypoxia (IH) is one of the hallmark features of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and adversely affects neurocognitive and behavioral functioning. However, how the duration of IH correlates with its deleterious effects remains unexplored. We aimed to assess the effects of IH over a prolonged period of time mimicking untreated OSA. Male C57Bl/6J mice were exposed to IH for 96 weeks. Sleep activity was acquired using a piezoelectric system. Novel object recognition (NOR) and the elevated plus maze test (EPMT) were conducted as measures of cognitive function and anxiety, respectively. Brain inflammation was evaluated by a panel of inflammation marker assays. All tests were performed after 16 and 96 weeks of IH exposure. After 96 weeks, sleep percentages during the dark phase decreased in both IH and room air (RA) compared to 16-week exposure (RA: p = 0.0214; IH: p = 0.0188). In addition to age-dependent declines in NOR performance, the mice after 96 weeks of IH exposure had lower NOR preference scores than RA controls (p = 0.0070). The time spent in open arms of the EPMT was reduced in mice exposed to IH compared to RA. Inflammatory marker expression increased in IH-exposed mice. Thus, aging and IH induce similar alterations in sleep, cognition, and neuroinflammation. However, the effects of aging are exacerbated by concurrent IH, suggesting that OSA is a disease associated with an acceleration in biological aging.
Therapeutic Effects of Alkaloids on Influenza: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Preclinical Studies
Authors: Gong Zhaoyuan , Hu Mingzhi , Zhao Guozhen , Liang Ning , Zhang Haili , Li Huizhen , Che Qianzi , Guo Jing , Song Tian , Wang Yanping , Shi Nannan , Liu Bin
Published: February 2025

Experimental evidence suggests that alkaloids have anti-influenza and anti-inflammatory effects. However, the risk of translating existing evidence into clinical practice is relatively high. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of animal studies to evaluate the therapeutic effects of alkaloids in treating influenza, providing valuable references for future studies. Seven electronic databases were searched until October 2024 for relevant studies. The Review Manager 5.2 software was utilized to perform the meta-analysis. Our study was registered within the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) as number CRD42024607535. Alkaloids are significantly correlated with viral titers, pulmonary inflammation scores, survival rates, lung indices, and body weight. However, alkaloid therapy is not effective in reducing the levels of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-6 (IL-6). In addition, the therapeutic effects of alkaloids may be related to the inhibition of the Toll-like receptor 4 or 7/Nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway, NACHT, LRR, and PYD domains-containing protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome pathway, and the Antiviral innate immune response receptor RIG-I (RIG-I) pathway. Alkaloids are potential candidates for the prevention and treatment of influenza. However, extensive preclinical studies and clinical studies are needed to confirm the anti-influenza and anti-inflammatory properties of alkaloids.
Transcription Factors Fzc9 and Pdr802 Regulate ATP Levels and Metabolism in Cryptococcus neoformans
Authors: Ma Yuanyuan , Xue Peng
Published: February 2025

Transcription factors Fzc9 and Pdr802, characterized by their Zn2Cys6 DNA-binding domain, are essential for the virulence of Cryptococcus neoformans in lung and brain infections. Notably, the in vivo roles of Fzc9 and Pdr802 in contributing to the pathogenicity of C. neoformans are not adequately reflected by the phenotypic characteristics observed in vitro. This study investigates the effects of gene deletion of FZC9 or PDR802 on the proteomic and metabolomic profiles of C. neoformans. Using mass spectrometry analysis, we identified significant changes in protein abundance and metabolite levels, particularly in pathways related to ATP synthesis. These findings deepen our understanding of the metabolic roles of Fzc9 and Pdr802, suggesting potential targets for the development of novel therapeutic strategies against C. neoformans infections.
Spatial Transcriptomic Analysis of Surgical Resection Specimens of Primary Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma Treated with Afatinib in a Window-of-Opportunity Study (EORTC90111-24111)
Authors: Beyaert Simon , Loriot Axelle , Machiels Jean-Pascal , Schmitz Sandra
Published: February 2025

Afatinib-induced tumor and microenvironment modifications in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma were evaluated by spatial transcriptomics in surgical specimens and RNA-sequencing in tumor biopsies of patients included in the EORTC-90111-24111 window-of-opportunity study. The aim was to explore tumor evolution and composition under anti-HER therapy. Based on our previous investigations by RNA-seq on tumor biopsies, surgical slides of ID08 and ID15 from the epithelial-to-mesenchymal (EMT) cluster and ID30 from the non-EMT cluster were investigated with spatial transcriptomics. Dimension reduction in ID30 revealed 14 clusters, with clusters overlapping three tumor nodules and the stroma. Differential expression analysis between tumor nodules showed enrichment of the hallmark EMT genelist, with 123 genes in common between the analyses. These genes were involved in PDGF and MET signaling pathways. By comparing gene expression in paired tumor biopsies and the 123 genes from differential analyses obtained in ID30, a list of 13 genes involved in cancer pathways and EMT emerged, which were also highly expressed in ID08 and ID15. These results show a progressive apparition of genes implicated in EMT, MET, and PDGF pathways in tumors after afatinib. Notably, a list of 13 genes emerged which may contain targets to prevent tumor evolution after anti-HER therapy.
Improving Diacritical Arabic Speech Recognition: Transformer-Based Models with Transfer Learning and Hybrid Data Augmentation
Authors: Alaqel Haifa , El Hindi Khalil
Published: February 2025

Diacritical Arabic (DA) refers to Arabic text with diacritical marks that guide pronunciation and clarify meanings, making their recognition crucial for accurate linguistic interpretation. These diacritical marks (short vowels) significantly influence meaning and pronunciation, and their accurate recognition is vital for the effectiveness of automatic speech recognition (ASR) systems, particularly in applications requiring high semantic precision, such as voice-enabled translation services. Despite its importance, leveraging advanced machine learning techniques to enhance ASR for diacritical Arabic has remained underexplored. A key challenge in developing DA ASR is the limited availability of training data. This study introduces a transformer-based approach leveraging transfer learning and data augmentation to address these challenges. Using a cross-lingual speech representation (XLSR) model pretrained on 53 languages, we fine-tune it on DA and integrate connectionist temporal classification (CTC) with transformers for improved performance. Data augmentation techniques, including volume adjustment, pitch shift, speed alteration, and hybrid strategies, further mitigate data limitations, significantly reducing word error rates (WER). Our methods achieve a WER of 12.17%, outperforming traditional ASR systems and setting a new benchmark for DA ASR. These findings demonstrate the potential of advanced machine learning to address longstanding challenges in DA ASR and enhance its accuracy.
Body Mass Index and 10-Year Clinical Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention—Interaction with Age, Sex, Diabetic Status and Clinical Presentation
Authors: Ndrepepa Gjin , Kufner Sebastian , Cassese Salvatore , Joner Michael , Xhepa Erion , Sager Hendrik B. , Schunkert Heribert , Kastrati Adnan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objective: The association of body mass index (BMI) with long-term outcomes following percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) remains poorly investigated. We undertook this study to assess the association between BMI and long-term outcomes after PCI. Methods: Overall, 5597 patients with coronary artery disease undergoing PCI were included in the study. Patients were categorized in groups according to the following BMI categories: underweight group (BMI <18.5 kg/m2), normal weight group (BMI 18.5 kg/m2 to <25 kg/m2), overweight group (BMI 25 kg/m2 to <30 kg/m2) and obesity group (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). The primary endpoint was all-cause mortality at 10 years. Results: At 10 years, all-cause deaths (primary endpoint) occurred in 1754 patients: 31 deaths (59.7%) in the underweight group, 582 deaths (39.1%) in the normal weight group, 710 deaths (31.1%) in the overweight group and 431 deaths (33.8%) in the obesity group (overall p < 0.001; p for nonlinearity <0.001). Nonsurvivors had a significantly lower BMI compared with survivors (26.5 [24.2–29.9] kg/m2 vs. 27.2 [24.8–30.1] kg/m2, p < 0.001). Interaction testing showed a BMI-by-age interaction denoting a stronger association between higher BMI (≥25 kg/m2) and reduced risk of all-cause mortality in patients ≥75 years of age (Pint = 0.009). The association of BMI with all-cause mortality was U-shaped (p for nonlinearity < 0.001). The C-statistic of the multivariable Cox proportional hazards model for mortality increased from 0.762 [0.751–0.773] with baseline variables only to 0.766 [0.756–0.777], p < 0.001) after the BMI inclusion in the model (baseline variables plus BMI). Conclusions: In patients with coronary artery disease undergoing PCI, BMI was associated with 10-year mortality with a U-shaped relationship.
Cobalt-Incorporated Hydroxyapatite Conditioned Media Promotes In Vitro Scratch Wound Healing and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Migration
Authors: Leelasangsai Weerapat , Thummachot Krongrat , Thammasarnsophon Puttita , Srion Autcharaporn , Suwanprateeb Jintamai , Patntirapong Somying
Published: February 2025

Cell migration of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) is critical for bone healing and remodeling. Cobalt is a well-known hypoxia mimic, which can enhance MSC migration. Therefore, the objective of this study was to investigate the migratory response of MSCs to a developed cobalt-incorporated hydroxyapatite (HACo) material. HACo was fabricated by a simple ion exchange procedure at concentrations ranging from 40 to 8000 μM into disc shape. HACo discs were incubated in the media and conditioned media (CM; HACoCM) were collected for MSC culture. HACM served as a control. MSCs were cultured until reaching 90% confluence before the wound was generated by scraping. Time-lapse imaging of wound migration was monitored, recorded, and assessed. Statistical analysis was performed by one-way ANOVA followed by a Dunnett’s test. The wound area gradually declined from 0 to 40 h for all samples. HACoCM at 40 µM (HACo40CM) promoted wound closure at the early period of wound healing. Both HACo40CM and HACo8000CM enhanced the distance and velocity of individual cell migration. However, only HACo40CM affected cell persistence and direction at the early period of cell migration. Exposure to HACoCM accelerated the speed of MSC migration, which is necessary for wound healing. The migratory ability of individual cells could help the rate of wound healing. Therefore, HACo materials may serve as potential biomaterials for enhanced bone healing.
Stannous Fluoride in Toothpastes: A Review of Its Clinical Effects and Likely Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Nicholson John W.
Published: February 2025

This article reviews the topic of stannous fluoride as an anti-caries additive in toothpastes. It is based on a literature survey carried out using Science Direct, supplemented by information from PubMed. The keywords used were stannous fluoride, toothpaste, clinical effects, caries, hypersensitivity, gingival health, structure and aqueous solutions. The initial searches covered the period 2015–2024 and identified 57 references. Older references cited in these papers, and also papers already known to the author, were also included. The information thus obtained shows that stannous fluoride has three main effects, namely, reduction in the viability of the oral biofilm, increase in remineralisation of the hydroxyapatite tooth mineral and occlusion of dentinal tubules leading to reduced hypersensitivity. Stannous fluoride was shown to be the most effective of all the fluoride additives used in toothpastes. In much of the dental literature, this is attributed to the effects of Sn2+ ions. However, as has been shown extensively in the wider scientific literature, free Sn2+ ions do not occur in aqueous systems. Rather, the initial products of the dissolution of SnF2 is undissociated, hydrated SnF2 and SnF+ ions. These gradually exchange fluoride to form Sn(OH)2 and Sn(OH)+. Their likely mechanism of action based on their toxicity towards oral micro-organisms and their interaction with hydroxyapatite is discussed.
How Self-Belief in Creativity and Well-Being Is Associated with Life Satisfaction, Meaning in Life, and Psychological Richness: The Mediating Effect of Creative Self-Efficacy
Authors: Liu Dongdong , Wu Chenggang , Meng Yaxuan , Dang Jing
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to validate the Chinese version of the self-beliefs in creativity and well-being (SBCWs) and probe its associations with life satisfaction, meaning in life, and psychological richness. Additionally, it explored the mediating role of creative self-efficacy between SBCWs and well-being. Evidence of the reliability and validity of the Chinese SBCWs were provided, with their correlation to well-being measures offering further validity support. Mediation analyses showed that creative self-efficacy mediated the links between SBCW and life satisfaction, psychological richness, and presence of meaning, but not between SBCW and the search for meaning. Differential SBCW predictions for short- and long-term well-being were confirmed, suggesting SBCW’s split of short-term and long-term focus. The study highlights creativity and creative self-efficacy’s importance in well-being.
Trachelectomy and Cerclage Placement as Fertility-Sparing Surgery for Cervical Cancer—An Expert Survey
Authors: Smits Anke , Wolswinkel Janneke T. , Eikelder Mieke L. G. ten , Abu-Rustum Nadeem R. , Baiocchi Glauco , Beltman Jogchum J. , Covens Allan , Cornel Karlijn M. C. , Falconer Henrik , Fotopoulou Christina , Gerestein Cornelis G. , Gil-Ibanez Blanca , Hillemanns Peter , Köhler Christhardt , Kucukmetin Ali , van Lonkhuijzen Luc R. C. W. , Morice Philippe , Nam Joo Hyun , Perrotta Myriam B. , Persson Jan , Plante Marie , Querleu Denis , Ribeiro Reitan , Ungár Laszlo , van Ham Maaike A. P. C. , Zusterzeel Petra L. M.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Fertility-sparing surgery (FSS) is a standard practice for managing early stage cervical cancer, yet significant variation exists in clinical approaches worldwide. Our objective was to ascertain current practices and preferences for cerclage use among expert centers globally regarding FSS in patients with early stage cervical cancer. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey from May to July 2023 involving expert centers identified through their scientific contributions and participation in international workgroups and conferences.. The survey, comprising 27 questions, evaluated existing practices in FSS. Results: Out of the centers surveyed, 21 (36.2%) gynecologic oncologists responded. For tumors <2 cm, 86% of centers preferred radical trachelectomy, primarily via the vaginal approach, while 13.6% favored a simple trachelectomy. Three experts preferred simple trachelectomy (13.6%). For tumors >2 cm, 47.6% utilized neoadjuvant chemotherapy before trachelectomy. Others did not offer FSS or performed an abdominal radical trachelectomy. Over time, there has been a shift towards less radical surgeries for tumors <2 cm and increased use of neoadjuvant chemotherapy for larger tumors. Some abandoned the minimally invasive surgical approach. Nearly all experts (90.5%) placed a cerclage immediately following trachelectomy. Conclusions: The majority of experts opt for radical trachelectomy in early stage cervical cancer, with immediate cerclage placement being a common practice. However, considerable international variations highlight the urgent need for standardized guidelines and further research to optimize treatment strategies, balancing oncological safety with fertility outcomes.
Quality Assessment and Identification of Key Areas for Ecological Conservation Projects in Inner Mongolia
Authors: Li Tianqi , Chen Panyu , Lin Jiayi , Wu Quanlong , Zhang Hailin , Zhan Jinyan
Published: February 2025

In the context of global climate change, implementing ecological projects in China is critical for improving ecosystem quality, conservation, and sustainable development. Despite progress, ecological engineering areas remain vulnerable to degradation. Assessing these areas and identifying key regions for ecological improvement is essential for guiding project construction and fostering sustainable development. This study analyzed the spatial differentiation of ecological health and greenness in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, a key area of the “Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Project” (TNSFP). A dual assessment framework integrating health and greenness indicators was developed to comprehensively evaluate the ecological benefits of engineering projects and identify priority areas for management. The results indicate the following: (1) Among the 104 counties and districts in Inner Mongolia, areas with high Ecological Health Index (EHI) values are primarily located in forests and grasslands, while low EHI values are found in agricultural–pastoral transition zones, deserts, the Gobi, and urban areas in western Inner Mongolia; (2) The Ecological Greenness Index (EGI) exhibits medium to low values across most of Inner Mongolia, except for the Daxinganling woodland area. Low EGI values are predominantly found in desert and desert grassland areas in the west, as well as grassland areas in central Inner Mongolia; (3) The Ecological Quality Index (EQI) at the raster scale shows a general decline from northeast to southwest, with high values concentrated in woodland areas and medium to low values in deserts, agricultural–pastoral zones, and urban areas; and (4) Key areas for ecological quality are mainly located in the deserts and Gobi regions of western Inner Mongolia, as well as urban areas, accounting for approximately 23.65% of the study area. These findings provide valuable insights for the planning and sustainable management of the TNSFP and offer significant support for ecological decision-making.
Study on the Probability of Meteorological-to-Hydrological Drought Propagation Based on a Bayesian Network
Authors: Zhang Xiangyang , Wang Huiliang , Yu Zhilei , Yan Dengming , Liu Ruxue , Liu Simin , Zhu Yujia , Chen Yifan , Wu Zening
Published: February 2025

With accelerating climate change, droughts have increased in frequency and exerted a substantial influence on socioeconomic factors. Under conditions of insufficient precipitation and high temperatures, meteorological droughts have the potential to develop into more intense hydrological droughts, and the independent impact of temperature factors on drought propagation has not been considered separately. This study constructed a Standardized Temperature Index (STI) and, combined with time-series datasets of standardized indices of precipitation and runoff (SPI and SRI), based on Bayesian network principles, analyzed the probabilistic characteristics of drought propagation from meteorology to hydrology due to the influence of single or dual factors in the Yiluo River Basin (1961–2020). It also explored the transmission mechanisms of temperature and precipitation that drive and affect meteorological and hydrological drought. The results showed that propagation of meteorological to hydrological droughts increased with rising temperatures, and the propagation probability to severe and extreme hydrological drought increased by approximately 5%. Under the most adverse circumstances (high temperature and precipitation shortage scenarios), the likelihood of meteorological droughts progressing into intense hydrological drought events rose to 80%. Increasing temperature is expected to lead to more severe hydrological droughts. This study offers a theoretical foundation for drought prevention and mitigation.
Brain Tumor Detection and Prediction in MRI Images Utilizing a Fine-Tuned Transfer Learning Model Integrated Within Deep Learning Frameworks
Authors: Rastogi Deependra , Johri Prashant , Donelli Massimo , Kumar Lalit , Bindewari Shantanu , Raghav Abhinav , Khatri Sunil Kumar
Published: February 2025

Brain tumor diagnosis is a complex task due to the intricate anatomy of the brain and the heterogeneity of tumors. While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is commonly used for brain imaging, accurately detecting brain tumors remains challenging. This study aims to enhance brain tumor classification via deep transfer learning architectures using fine-tuned transfer learning, an advanced approach within artificial intelligence. Deep learning methods facilitate the analysis of high-dimensional MRI data, automating the feature extraction process crucial for precise diagnoses. In this research, several transfer learning models, including InceptionResNetV2, VGG19, Xception, and MobileNetV2, were employed to improve the accuracy of tumor detection. The dataset, sourced from Kaggle, contains tumor and non-tumor images. To mitigate class imbalance, image augmentation techniques were applied. The models were pre-trained on extensive datasets and fine-tuned to recognize specific features in MRI brain images, allowing for improved classification of tumor versus non-tumor images. The experimental results show that the Xception model outperformed other architectures, achieving an accuracy of 96.11%. This result underscores its capability in high-precision brain tumor detection. The study concludes that fine-tuned deep transfer learning architectures, particularly Xception, significantly improve the accuracy and efficiency of brain tumor diagnosis. These findings demonstrate the potential of using advanced AI models to support clinical decision making, leading to more reliable diagnoses and improved patient outcomes.
The Advancements of Marine Natural Products in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease: A Study Based on Cell and Animal Experiments
Authors: Jia Chunbo , Chai Jiaxin , Zhang Shenyun , Sun Yining , He Liheng , Sang Zhipei , Chen Dapeng , Zheng Xu
Published: February 2025

As life expectancy rises and the aging population grows, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has become a significant global health concern. AD is a complex neurodegenerative disorder with an unclear etiology. Current hypotheses primarily focus on β-amyloid (Aβ) aggregation, tau protein hyperphosphorylation, and neuroinflammation as key pathological processes. Given the limited efficacy of existing therapeutic strategies, there is an urgent need to explore novel treatment options. Marine natural products have garnered significant attention due to their unique chemical structures and diverse bioactivities, demonstrating potential for multi-target interventions in AD. This review systematically summarizes the roles of marine-derived compounds, including polysaccharides, carotenoids, and polyphenols, in modulating Aβ aggregation, mitigating tau protein pathology, and regulating gut–brain axis dysfunction. Furthermore, the challenges of current research are discussed, with an emphasis on improving blood–brain barrier permeability and optimizing drug delivery systems to facilitate clinical translation.
Add-On Technologies That Aim to Improve Oocyte Quality and Embryo Implantation Potential
Authors: Petrogiannis Nikos , Filippa Maria , Chatzovoulou Kalliopi , Petrogiannis Savvas , Filippas Ioannis , Grimbizis Grigoris , Kolibianakis Efstratios , Chatzimeletiou Katerina
Published: February 2025

Advancements in assisted reproductive technologies (ARTs) have led to the development of various add-on techniques aimed at improving oocyte quality and enhancing embryo implantation potential. These techniques target critical stages of both oocyte and embryo physiology, including oocyte growth and maturation, fertilization, chromosomal status, and embryo development. Key approaches involve the optimization of in vitro fertilization (IVF) protocols, recruiting capable follicles giving rise to dynamic oocytes to evolve, culture media supplementation, preimplantation genetic testing (PGT), and mitochondrial replacement therapy (MRT), all of which are designed to enhance oocyte competence through its function and metabolism. The use of PGT has been promising in selecting embryos suitable for transfer, thus optimizing implantation success. Emerging technologies, such as platelet-rich plasma treatment (PRP), time-lapse imaging (TLI), and hyaluronan-rich (HA) culture media, claim to improve ovarian rejuvenation and uterine receptivity, embryo selection, as well as embryo implantation potential, respectively. Evidence for certain add-on approaches remains limited, but ongoing research suggests that the use of such treatments may lead to increased clinical pregnancies and live birth rates, especially in poor-prognosis patients. The present review describes the current state of the add-on innovations, their mechanisms of action, as well as their possibilities to increase ART success rates.
Misdiagnosis of Acute Limb Ischemia from Non-Vascular Specialists Results in a Delayed Presentation and Negatively Affects Patients’ Outcomes
Authors: Pesmatzoglou Michalis , Lioudaki Stella , Kontopodis Nikolaos , Tzartzalou Ifigeneia , Litinas Konstantinos , Tzouliadakis George , Ioannou Christos V.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Acute Limb Ischemia (ALI) is a vascular emergency which is accompanied by a significant risk of limb loss or even death. Rapid restoration of arterial perfusion using surgical and/or endovascular techniques is crucial for limb salvage. Undeniably, an accurate and prompt diagnosis is the first step to improve patient prognosis. The typical clinical presentation is not always present and the variety of symptoms may result in non-vascular specialists missing the diagnosis. Methods: In this single-center retrospective descriptive study, we reviewed all patients hospitalized between January 2018 and January 2024 for ALI. Patients who were initially misdiagnosed, causing a delayed diagnosis > 24 h, and who therefore did not receive timely treatment, were identified. Moreover, patients with a timely diagnosis of ALI who were treated in our institution during the same time period were collected. Results: Among 280 ALI patients, 14 were initially misdiagnosed. The median time from initial symptoms to definite diagnosis was 38.8 days (range 1.5–365). Several specialties such as orthopedic surgeons, neurologists, and general practitioners were involved in patients’ initial assessment. Three patients underwent primary amputation due to irreversible ALI, while nine underwent revascularization and one conservative treatment. Thirty-day limb salvage rate was 9/14 and thirty-day mortality was observed in one patient. Secondary interventions were needed in 65% of these cases. Patients with a delayed ALI diagnosis, when compared to those with a timely diagnosis, presented a significantly lower limb salvage rate (65% vs. 89%, p-value = 0.02) and a significantly higher rate of reinterventions (65% vs. 18%, p-value < 0.001). Conclusions: Many patients with ALI are primarily referred to non-vascular specialties. Misdiagnosed and mistreated ALI negatively affects outcomes.
Study on Spatiotemporal Variation in Internal Temperature Field in Quartz Flexible Accelerometer
Authors: Zhang Zhigang , Tang Fangxiang , Zhao Ziwei , Zhang Zhao , Tang Lijun
Published: February 2025

Quartz flexible accelerometers (QFAs) are a type of temperature-sensitive sensor, whereby a change in temperature will cause the key parameters of the accelerometer to drift and cause stability errors. Due to the absence of effective methods for sensing the temperature of internal accelerometer components, existing temperature error correction approaches primarily rely on shell temperature measurements to establish correction models. Consequently, most correction methods achieve higher accuracy during the steady-state heat conduction phase of the accelerometer, whereas the correction error markedly increases during the transient heat conduction phase. To elucidate the temperature discrepancy between the QFA shell and its internal components and to support the development of a temperature error correction method for QFAs based on the internal temperature as a reference, this paper investigated the heat exchange dynamics between the interior and exterior of a QFA. A thermal conduction simulation model of the QFA was established, from which the spatiotemporal distribution patterns of the internal temperature field were derived. The results indicate that the temperature of the QFA shell changes significantly faster than that of the internal meter head in the early stage of the temperature change. The temperature gradient between the shell and the meter head first increases and then decreases, and the rate of temperature change in the upper part of the accelerometer is faster than that in the lower part. Before thermal equilibrium is reached, the temperature distribution inside the accelerometer is uneven in terms of time and space. Inside the accelerometer, the yoke iron, swing plate assembly, servo circuit, and magnetic steel assembly are the main components that exhibit differences in the internal temperature change in the QFA. When developing the temperature error correction method, it was crucial to address and mitigate the impact of temperature variations among these components. The average RMSE between the predicted temperature from the heat transfer model established in this paper and the experimental results was 0.4 °C. This indicates that the model can accurately predict the temperature variation within the QFA, thereby providing robust support for investigating the temperature behavior inside the QFA and offering essential technical foundations for enhancing the accuracy of the temperature error correction method.
Erwinia plantamica sp. nov., a Non-Phytopathogenic Bacterium Isolated from the Seedlings of Spring Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)
Authors: Egorshina Anna , Lukyantsev Mikhail , Golubev Sergey , Boulygina Eugenia , Khilyas Irina , Muratova Anna
Published: February 2025

Erwinia are widely known as phytopathogenic bacteria, but among them, there are also plant-friendly strains that can promote plant growth (PGPR). The Erwinia-like strain OPT-41 was isolated from Triticum aestivum seedlings as a potential PGPR. The cells (0.9–1.3 × 1.5–3.1 µm) of this microorganism are Gram-negative, rod-shaped, motile (with peritrichous flagella), and non-spore- and non-capsule-forming. The 16S rRNA gene sequence analyses showed it is located in the Erwiniaceae family and has a pairwise similarity above the species delineation threshold of 98.65% with several of its members: Erwinia tasmaniensis (99.21%), Candidatus Pantoea bathycoeliae (98.93%), Pantoea agglomerans (98.87%), Erwinia endophytica (98.83%), Erwinia persicina (98.82%), Erwinia billingiae (98.76%) and Erwinia aphidicola (98.75%). Whole genome-based taxonomy performed on the Type (Strain) Genome Server clarified the status of strain OPT-41, detecting it as a potential new species in the genus Erwinia. The microorganism under study was the most closely related to the type strain of E. phyllosphaerae, demonstrating 27.2% similarity in dDDH, 83.44% similarity in OrthoANIu, and 1.9% difference in G+C content. The major fatty acids of strain OPT-41 were 9 C16:1, C14:0, and C16:0. A combination of genome-based taxonomy and traditional polyphasic taxonomy clearly indicated that strain OPT-41 belongs to a novel Erwinia species, for which the name E. plantamica sp. nov was proposed. OPT-41 (=IBPPM 712=VKM B-3873D=CCTCC AB 2024361) has been designated as the type strain. In addition, OPT-41 was found to have low degradation potential for host plant pectins and proteins and be friendly in Triticum aestivum and Hordeum vulgare crops.
Self-Thickening Materials Derived from Phenylpropanoid Ene Reactions
Authors: Biswas Atanu , Cheng Huai N. , Chisholm Bret , Beni Ryan , Liu Zengshe , Vermillion Karl , Appell Michael , Forson Kelton , El Seoud Omar , Alves Carlucio R. , Furtado Roselayne F.
Published: February 2025

In this work, we report the observation of uncatalyzed ene reactions between several phenylpropanoid compounds and diethyl azodicarboxylate (DEAD). For allylbenzene, the reaction produces the ene product at molar ratios of up to 1:2 of allylbenzene to DEAD. At higher levels of DEAD, more complex reactions are observed. For the reaction between methyl eugenol and DEAD, similar ene reaction products have been found. However, the reaction of eugenol with DEAD is more complex; in addition to the ene reaction, other reactions happen at the same time. Most of the structures of the resulting products have been elucidated using NMR spectroscopy (1H, 13C, and 2D), and the findings have been further corroborated by FTIR analysis. Interestingly, these products appear to undergo molecular aggregation, which results in self-thickening in their neat form. However, the viscosity significantly decreases upon dilution with a solvent. This self-thickening property suggests their potential use as thickening agents in organic solvent formulations.
Apiaceae Bioferments Obtained by Fermentation with Kombucha as an Important Source of Active Substances for Skin Care
Authors: Nizioł-Łukaszewska Zofia , Ziemlewska Aleksandra , Zagórska-Dziok Martyna , Mokrzyńska Agnieszka , Wójciak Magdalena , Sowa Ireneusz
Published: February 2025

This article attempts to comprehensively assess plants from the Apiaceae family, such as Apium graveolens, Daucus carota or Petroselinum crispum, as raw plant materials with potential uses in cosmetic products with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects. The work compares the phytochemical profiles and activity of extracts and ferments from the roots of these plants obtained during fermentation using kombucha. The antioxidant properties of the tested extracts, the effect on the intracellular level of free radicals and their cytotoxicity towards skin cells were compared. Their anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties were also assessed. The ABTS and DPPH tests indicated the highest antioxidant potential of the carrot ferments, achieving a 55.75% and 74.6% reduction of these radicals, respectively. The resazurin and Neutral Red assays indicated that in most cases, sample concentrations not exceeding 2.5% did not cause a cytotoxic effect, and in the case of a 20-day parsley ferment, they could increase viability by over 40%. The disk diffusion method indicated growth inhibition zones of over 20 mm for some bacteria. The minimum inhibitory concentrations for seven different bacterial strains ranged from 200 to 400 µg/mL. Anti-inflammatory properties were determined using the ELISA method, assessing the level of interleukins 1β, 6 and 10. The obtained results indicate a higher amount of phytochemicals, a lack of cytotoxic effect at lower concentrations of the tested samples and significantly stronger antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties of the ferments compared to the extracts. This effect depends on the concentration and fermentation time used.
Molecular Dynamics Simulation Study on the Influence of Twin Spacing and Temperature on the Deformation Behavior of Nanotwinned AgPd Alloy
Authors: Zhang Wanxuan , Zhao Kangkang , Shan Shuang , Chen Fuyi
Published: February 2025

This study employs molecular dynamics simulations to unravel the interplay between twin spacing, temperature, and mechanical response in nanotwinned AgPd alloys. For fine-grained systems, a dual strengthening–softening transition emerges as twin spacing decreases, driven by a shift in dislocation behavior from inclined-to-twin-boundary slip to parallel-to-twin-boundary glide. In contrast, coarse-grained configurations exhibit monotonic strengthening with reduced twin spacing, governed by strain localization at grain boundaries and suppressed dislocation activity. Notably, cryogenic conditions stabilize pre-existing and nascent twins, whereas elevated temperatures intensify atomic mobility and boundary migration, accelerating twin boundary annihilation (“detwinning”).
Aqueous Cymbopogon citratus Extract Mediated Silver Nanoparticles: Part I. Influence of Synthesis Parameters, Characterization, and Biomedical Studies
Authors: Kurra Himabindu , Velidandi Aditya , Sarvepalli Mounika , Pabbathi Ninian Prem Prashanth , Godishala Vikram
Published: February 2025

This study explores the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) using Cymbopogon citratus (lemongrass) extract as a reducing agent. Synthesis was confirmed by a color change (light yellow to dark brown) under optimal conditions: 1.50 mM silver nitrate, 3.5% v/v extract, at 100 °C, with a pH of 9, and for 60 min. The AgNPs exhibited spherical morphology, a hydrodynamic diameter of 135.41 ± 49.30 nm, a zeta potential of −29.9 ± 1.4 mV, crystalline structure, and minimal aggregation. AgNPs showed significant antibacterial activity, particularly at >20 µg/well, with the zones of inhibition varying by bacterial strain. In vitro studies demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic (α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibition), and antioxidant activities, with AgNPs outperforming plant extract and nearing standard efficacy at higher concentrations. Cyto-toxicity studies indicated that AgNPs and plant extract were less toxic than doxorubicin but exhibited concentration-dependent effects on cancerous and non-cancerous cells. Eco-toxicity assays revealed that AgNPs were less acutely toxic than controls but posed risks with prolonged exposure. This work highlights the eco-friendly synthesis of AgNPs and their potential in biomedical applications, demonstrating efficacy in antibacterial and antioxidant activities.
Network Tower Sharing Analysis in Greece: A Structure–Conduct–Performance Approach
Authors: Argyroulis Vasileios , Kargas Antonios , Varoutas Dimitris
Published: February 2025

The paper intends to contribute to readers’ comprehension of the Greek telecommunications market, focusing on the strategic decisions associated with network tower-sharing analysis in Greece. The Greek telecommunications industry is described for the first time following the Structure–Conduct–Performance (SCP) paradigm of Industrial Organisation (IO), as a methodological tool of analysis. In that respect, an SCP model in its extended form is constructed, aiming to examine how structure, conduct, and performance interrelate to each other. More precisely, the SCP model explains how strategic decisions regarding tower infrastructure sharing between 2013–2022 were developed, as a result of a series of interactions and feedback effects, amongst market structure, operators’ conducts, and performances, resulting in strengthening competition and reshaping market structure with the entrance of a new player in the Greek mobile market, an independent TowerCo (Athens, Greece) in Greece. International tendencies and competition issues influencing domestic growth potentialities and alternative operators’ concentration will be addressed, too. The paper concludes with presenting a basically qualitative, explanatory interpretive analysis of the perspectives of network tower-sharing analysis in the Greek telecommunication industry, including policy recommendations for the near future and thoughts on future research, as well.
Body Mass Index and Cardiovascular Risk Markers: A Large Population Analysis
Authors: Asztalos Bela F. , Russo Giuseppina , He Lihong , Diffenderfer Margaret R.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives. An elevated body mass index (BMI) has been added to the new American Heart Association atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk model. Our goal in this study was to examine the relationships between BMI and traditional and non-traditional ASCVD risk factors. Methods. We measured levels of blood glucose, insulin, lipids, lipoproteins, sterols, fatty acids, markers of inflammation and oxidative stress, and hormones in 226,000 middle-aged and elderly subjects (55% women) and associated those parameters to BMI in 5 groups (BMI 20–25, 25.1–30, 30.1–35, 35.1–40, and >40 kg/m2). Results. BMI and age were inversely correlated in both sexes. All of the traditional and non-traditional ASCVD risk markers, except low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), changed significantly in unfavorable ways in both sexes with increasing BMI. The largest changes were observed in the high sensitivity C-reactive protein, which increased 6- and 8-fold, and insulin, which increased 4- and 3-fold between the lowest and highest BMI groups in men and women, respectively. Although the LDL-C levels changed little, small dense LDL-C and triglyceride levels increased significantly with increasing BMI. Markers of cholesterol synthesis were positively associated with BMI, while markers of cholesterol absorption and omega-3 fatty acids were inversely associated with BMI. Concentrations of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and the athero-protective, large-size HDL particles were also inversely associated with BMI. Our analysis indicated that the associations between an elevated BMI and unfavorable changes in major ASCVD risk factors were independent of age in both sexes. Moreover, we observed that ASCVD risk factors started changing unfavorably with increasing BMI even in the normal weight range (BMI 20–25 kg/m2). Conclusions. An elevated BMI is associated with unfavorable changes in traditional and non-traditional ASCVD risk factors independent of age. Therefore, maintaining a normal BMI, preferably by an active lifestyle, and, if necessary, weight-managing medication, is very important to avoid developing conditions leading to ASCVD.