bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Therapeutic efficacy of LysGH15 against necrotising pneumonia caused by Staphylococcus aureus in a rabbit model
Authors: Zhang Bowei , Song Liran , Wang Yongran , Zhang Meimei , Chen Chong , Ning Hui , Wang Li , Qiu Cao , Wang Xinwu , Sun Changjiang , Feng Xin , Han Wenyu , Wang Bin , Ji Yalu , Gu Jingmin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) is one of the most important zoonotic pathogens and can be transmitted to humans through the meat diet routes, causing necrotising pneumonia.

Methods

This study investigated the therapeutic effect of bacteriophage lysin LysGH15 on necrotising pneumonia in rabbit model caused by S. aureus.

Results

In the in vitro experiments, 50 μg/mL LysGH15 not only significantly reduced the viable count (approximately 3.24 × 106 CFU/g) of chicken meat stored at 4°C for 48 h but also effectively reduced the viable count of chicken meat thawed at 4°C and 30°C, with reductions of approximately 1.42 × 106 CFU/g and 2.78 × 106 CFU/g, respectively. In the in vivo experiments, a single intranasal administration of 300 μg/rabbit increased the survival rate of rabbits to 60%. At 72 h postinfection, the number of bacteria in the lung tissues of the rabbits treated with LysGH15 was 7 × 104 CFU/g, which was significantly lower than that in the lung tissues of rabbits treated with PBS (7.76 × 106 CFU/g) or linezolid (6.38 × 105 CFU/g). In addition, LysGH15 treatment alleviated lung tissue damage in infected rabbits and significantly reduced the levels of Panton-Valentine leukocidin (PVL), alpha-toxin (Hla), and the cytokines IFN-γ, TNF-α, and IL-8 in their lung tissues, similar to those in rabbits treated with linezolid.

Discussion

These results suggest that LysGH15 has the potential to be used as a novel antimicrobial agent for the treatment of necrotising pneumonia caused by S. aureus.
Compared to MgSO4, the Use of Magnesium Nanofertilizer Alleviates Potassium-Magnesium Antagonism in Tomato Roots
Authors: Chen Wenhui , Hu Ziyi , Liu Dunyi
Published: February 2025

Magnesium (Mg) deficiency is increasingly recognized as a critical factor limiting crop production, especially in soils with high potassium (K) application. This study investigated the effects of different Mg fertilizers (MgSO4 and Mg(OH)2-based nanofertilizer) on K–Mg interactions in hydroponically grown tomato seedlings, with varying K (0.7, 7, and 21 mM) and Mg (0.1 and 1 mM) supply concentrations. The results observed with MgSO4 application showed that high K levels (21 mM) significantly antagonized Mg uptake, reducing total Mg content and negatively affecting plant growth and root-to-shoot ratios at both Mg supply levels. Specifically, the K3 (21 mM) treatment reduced total biomass by 45.35% compared to the K2 (7 mM) treatment. Moreover, a high K supply combined with low Mg intake exacerbated Mg deficiency. The optimal K:Mg ratio for growth was found to be 7:1. K–Mg antagonism occurred primarily during root uptake, with excessive K leading to increased Mg2+ efflux in the root elongation zone. Notably, the application of Mg(OH)2 nanoparticles alleviated K-induced Mg deficiency, as indicated by the lack of a significant correlation between K supply and relative Mg concentrations in plants treated with nano-Mg across K:Mg ratios ranging from 7:0.1 to 21:0.1. However, Mg concentration decreased by 17.54% and 35.63% in shoots and by 27.72% and 37.08% in roots for K2 and K3, respectively, in plants treated with MgSO4. It is concluded that optimizing K:Mg ratios and using Mg-based nanofertilizers can improve K and Mg utilization in high-K soils.
Predictive Factors for Risk of Reinfection in Septic Two-Stage Revision of Total Hip and Knee Arthroplasties
Authors: Blersch Benedikt Paul , Sax Florian Hubert , Schuster Philipp , Fink Bernd
Published: February 2025

Background: The two-stage septic exchange is the most common therapy concept in the treatment of periprosthetic hip and knee infections. However, before the second-stage reimplantation can be carried out, the physician has to assess whether or not the eradication of the periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) has been successful. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate possible predictive parameters for the successful treatment of PJI before and at the time of reimplantation. Methods: This study investigated a total of 145 patients with periprosthetic hip infection and 93 patients with periprosthetic knee infection, who all underwent a two-stage septic exchange between 2017 and 2021. In order to identify possible risk factors for reinfections, the patients underwent preoperative examination of serological inflammatory parameters, microbiological and histological examination of the periprosthetic membrane at the time of reimplantation, as well as postoperative evaluations at regular intervals for a period of at least 24 months. Results: During the follow-up period, reinfection occurred in 11.3% of cases after the two-stage septic revision. None of the serological, microbiological, or histological parameters were able to significantly predict the risk of reinfection. Risk factors associated with reinfection were BMI and previous revision surgery. Conclusions: Currently, there is no reliable predictive factor indicating the risk of reinfection at the time of reimplantation. New diagnostic methods need to be developed to evaluate the possibility and timing of endoprosthesis reimplantation.
Polyelectrolyte Complex Dry Powder Formulations of Tobramycin with Hyaluronic Acid and Sodium Hyaluronate for Inhalation Therapy in Cystic Fibrosis-Associated Infections
Authors: de Lafuente Yanina , Quarta Eride , Magi María S. , Apas Ana L. , Pagani Joaquín , Palena María C. , Páez Paulina L. , Sonvico Fabio , Jimenez-Kairuz Alvaro F.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Pulmonary delivered tobramycin (TOB) is a standard treatment for Pseudomonas aeruginosa lung infections, that, along with Staphylococcus aureus, is one of the most common bacteria causing recurring infections in CF patients. However, the only available formulation on the market containing tobramycin, TOBI®, is sold at a price that makes the access to the treatment difficult. Therefore, this work focuses on the development and characterization of an ionic complex between a polyelectrolyte, hyaluronic acid (HA) and its salt, sodium hyaluronate (NaHA), and TOB to be formulated as an inhalable dry powder. Methods: The solid state complex obtained by spray drying technique was physicochemically characterized by infrared spectroscopy, thermal analysis and X-ray diffraction, confirming an ionic interaction for both complexes. Results: The powder density, geometric size, and morphology along with the aerodynamic performance showed suitable properties for the powder formulations to reach the deep lung. Moisture uptake was found to be low, with the complex HA-TOB remaining physicochemically unchanged, while the NaHA-TOB required significant protection against humidity. The biopharmaceutical in vitro experiments showed a rapid dissolution which can have a positively impact in reducing side effects, while the drug release study demonstrated a reversible polyelectrolyte–drug interaction. Microbiological experiments against P. aeruginosa and S. aureus showed improved bacterial growth inhibition and bactericidal efficacy, as well as better inhibition and eradication of biofilms when compared with to TOB. Conclusions: A simple polyelectrolyte-drug complex technique represents a promising strategy for the development of antimicrobial dry powder formulations for pulmonary delivery in the treatment of cystic fibrosis (CF) lung infections.
Supplementation with the Postbiotic BPL1™-HT (Heat-Inactivated Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. Lactis) Attenuates the Cardiovascular Alterations Induced by Angiotensin II Infusion in Mice
Authors: de la Fuente-Muñoz Mario , Román-Carmena Marta , Amor Sara , González-Hedström Daniel , Martinez-Rios Verónica , Martorell Patricia , Inarejos-García Antonio M. , García Bou Reme , Guilera-Bermell Sonia , García-Villalón Ángel L. , Granado Miriam
Published: February 2025

Hypertension is associated with alterations in the composition and diversity of the intestinal microbiota. Indeed, supplementation with probiotics and prebiotics has shown promising results in modulating the gut microbiota and improving cardiovascular health. However, there are no studies regarding the possible beneficial effects of postbiotics on cardiovascular function and particularly on hypertension-induced cardiovascular alterations. Thus, the aim of this study was to analyze the effect of supplementation with the heat-treated Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis CECT 8145 strain (BPL1™ HT), a postbiotic developed by the company ADM-Biopolis, on cardiovascular alterations induced by angiotensin II (AngII) infusion in mice. For this purpose, three groups of C57BL/6J male mice were used: (i) mice infused with saline (control); (ii) mice infused with AngII for 4 weeks (AngII); and (iii) mice supplemented with BPL1™ HT in the drinking water (1010 cells/animal/day) for 8 weeks and infused with AngII for the last 4 weeks (AngII + BPL1™ HT). AngII infusion was associated with heart hypertrophy, hypertension, endothelial dysfunction, and overexpression of proinflammatory cytokines in aortic tissue. BPL1™ HT supplementation reduced systolic blood pressure and attenuated AngII-induced endothelial dysfunction in aortic segments. Moreover, mice supplemented with BPL1™ HT showed a decreased gene expression of the proinflammatory cytokine interleukin 6 (Il-6) and the prooxidant enzymes NADPH oxidases 1 (Nox-1) and 4 (Nox-4), as well as an overexpression of AngII receptor 2 (At2r) and interleukin 10 (Il-10) in arterial tissue. In the heart, BPL1™ HT supplementation increased myocardial contractility and prevented ischemia–reperfusion-induced cardiomyocyte apoptosis. In conclusion, supplementation with the postbiotic BPL1™ HT prevents endothelial dysfunction, lowers blood pressure, and has cardioprotective effects in an experimental model of hypertension induced by AngII infusion in mice.
Antioxidant Senotherapy by Natural Compounds: A Beneficial Partner in Cancer Treatment
Authors: Aleksandrova Yulia , Neganova Margarita
Published: February 2025

Aging is a general biological process inherent in all living organisms. It is characterized by progressive cellular dysfunction. For many years, aging has been widely recognized as a highly effective mechanism for suppressing the progression of malignant neoplasms. However, in recent years, increasing evidence suggests a “double-edged” role of aging in cancer development. According to these data, aging is not only a tumor suppressor that leads to cell cycle arrest in neoplastic cells, but also a cancer promoter that ensures a chronic proinflammatory and immunosuppressive microenvironment. In this regard, in our review, we discuss recent data on the destructive role of senescent cells in the pathogenesis of cancer. We also identify for the first time correlations between the modulation of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype and the antitumor effects of naturally occurring molecules.
The Influence of Vertical Ground Motion on the Design of Common R/C Frames
Authors: Manoukas Grigorios , Tsiggelis Vasilios
Published: February 2025

In this article, the response of reinforced concrete frames concurrently subjected to both horizontal and vertical seismic motions is assessed. The article is not limited to the variation in response quantities but aims to identify which specific design parameters are affected and how, as well as which specific code provisions could be violated due to the omission of vertical oscillations during the design process. Furthermore, the consequences that a design against vertical ground motion would cause in both technical and economic terms were investigated. For this purpose, six eight-storey 2D frames were designed, neglecting the vertical seismic component in compliance with code provisions. Subsequently, the seismic response of the frames to the concurrent action of horizontal and vertical ground motion was evaluated by applying both modal response spectrum and inelastic dynamic analyses. It was found out that several code violations occurred, mainly due to the fluctuation of the columns’ normalized axial forces and the amplification of up to two times or more of the beam bending moments. Thereafter, the frames were redesigned without neglecting the vertical seismic component, and the changes in the members’ cross-sectional dimensions and reinforcement were determined. Finally, it was estimated that the economic impact of redesigning did not exceed 4% of the initial total construction cost of the frames.
The Association Between Aggressive Driving Behaviors and Elderly Pedestrian Traffic Accidents: The Application of Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI)
Authors: Kim Minjun , Kim Dongbeom , Shim Jisup
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the association between aggressive driving behavior and elderly pedestrian traffic accidents using the Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) method. This study focuses on Seoul, South Korea, where an aging population and urban challenges create a pressing need for pedestrian safety research. The analysis reveals that aggressive driving behaviors, particularly rapid acceleration, rapid deceleration, and speeding, are the most influential factors on the frequency of and deaths from elderly pedestrian traffic accidents. In addition, several built environments and demographic factors such as the number of crosswalks and elderly population play varying roles depending on the spatial match or mismatch between risky driving areas and accident spots. The findings of this study underscore the importance of tailored interventions including well-lit crosswalks, traffic calming measures, and driver education, to reduce the vulnerabilities of elderly pedestrians. The integration of XAI methods provides transparency and interpretability, enabling policymakers to make data-driven decisions. Expanding this approach to other urban contexts with diverse characteristics could validate and refine the findings, contributing to a comprehensive strategy for improving pedestrian safety globally.
Supply–Demand Dynamic Matching in Cloud Manufacturing Based on Hypernetwork Model
Authors: Zhang Jiawen , Wang Cheng
Published: February 2025

In response to the escalating demand for personalisation and customisation, the manufacturing industry is increasingly driven towards digital and intelligent transformation. The fluctuating market environment and variable consumer demands impose significant challenges on the resilience of manufacturing systems. With the advent of Industry 5.0, developing a resilient manufacturing system has become even more critical. While existing studies have extensively explored participant satisfaction in cloud manufacturing, there remains a notable gap in understanding how network resilience impacts supply–demand matching, particularly in dynamic and personalised production scenarios. To address this gap, this study employs complex system modeling, integrating complex network characteristics for matching modeling and optimising dynamic adjustment strategies. By incorporating network resilience into the matching process, the proposed approach enhances both the robustness and operational efficiency of manufacturing systems. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed approach significantly improves system adaptability and reduces the impact of disruptions, offering a practical solution for industry practitioners to design resilient cloud manufacturing platforms. For scholars, this study provides a new perspective on integrating network resilience into supply–demand matching models, creating new opportunities for future research in intelligent and resilient manufacturing systems.
Onion Peel Powder’s Impact on the Leptin Receptors in the Hippocampus of Obese Rats
Authors: Komar Małgorzata , Michalak-Majewska Monika , Szalak Radosław , Wawrzyniak Agata , Gustaw Waldemar , Radzki Wojciech , Arciszewski Marcin B.
Published: February 2025

The bioactive components present in onion peel powder are a promising factor in preventing/treating obesity. Overweight/obesity causes metabolic changes, which can lead to leptin resistance in the central nervous system (CNS) and, thus, to structural and functional changes in the brain. Objectives: The presented study focused on evaluating the influence of a diet supplemented with onion peel powder on the immunoexpression of leptin receptors (LepRs) in the hippocampus in obese rats and the potential anti-obesity role of the onion in the brain. Methods: To induce obesity, the animals were given a high-energy chow containing lard and sucrose. Onion skin powder was used to modify the standard and high-energy diets (10.5 g per rat/week) of Wistar rats in a 14-week experiment followed by a brain IHC study. Results: The effect of the onion diet on the expression of neuronal LepRs and astrocytes in the hippocampus was analyzed. Obese animals receiving onion in the diet showed significant growth in the average number of immunoreactive LepR (LepR-IR) neurons (p = 0.00108) and their average size (p = 0.00168) in the CA1 field of the hippocampus. Meanwhile, in obese rats not given onion peel powder, a significant increase in the average density of astrocytes was observed (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: The increased density of astrocytes in the hippocampus of obese animals can probably have a beneficial effect on brain changes in overweight individuals. The inclusion of onion in the diet of overweight/obese individuals may lead to increased hippocampal neuroplasticity, manifested by changes in the immunoexpression of LepRs. It can be speculated that the observed changes have a protective effect on the CNS structures during obesity, but this undoubtedly requires further research.
Quaternion Signal Analysis for Detection of Broken Rotor Fault Degrees in Induction Motors
Authors: Contreras-Hernandez Jose Luis , Almanza-Ojeda Dora Luz , Castro-Sanchez Rogelio , Ibarra-Manzano Mario Alberto
Published: February 2025

Fault detection in induction motors is essential for maintaining the reliability of industrial operations. In practical applications, induction motors experience gradual wear on critical components, such as rotor bars, affecting their performance. This paper introduces a new methodology for modeling predictive wear functions related to rotor faults in induction motors, providing accurate forecasts and optimal performance through Quaternion Signal Analysis in the time domain. Our approach accurately detects wear in broken rotor bars and anticipates their degradation over time. The methodology involves coupling four vibration signals from the motor, representing them as quaternion coefficients, and calculating their rotational attributes to derive a statistical mean. We employ polynomial and Fourier regression techniques to construct a predictive wear function. We assess its accuracy through root mean square error (RMSE) analysis, which improves with increased sample size and regression complexity. Our findings indicate that polynomial regression, particularly at the second degree, achieves superior RMSE results compared to Fourier regression, even within limited sample windows. This approach offers a robust framework for early fault detection and wear prediction in induction motors, supporting enhanced maintenance strategies.
Projections of Heat- and Cold-Related Mortality Under Climate Change Scenarios in Portugal: A Modelling Study
Authors: Rodrigues Mónica , Carvalho David
Published: February 2025

Climate change and related events such as temperature increase over time and more frequent extreme weather events constitute a risk to the population and wellbeing. This study contributes to the knowledge on this subject by analyzing changes in mortality in Portugal using the most recent historical and future climate projections from the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6). A time-series distributed lag non-linear model (DLNM) was used to estimate the temperature-related mortality burdens in Portugal in the historical period (or reference, 1995–2014), the mid-century period (2046–2065), and the end of the century period (2081–2100) under moderate (SSP2-4.5) and extreme (SSP5-8.5) climate change scenarios. The findings show that winter periods of the contemporary climate (1995–2014) showed a significantly elevated risk of deaths from cold temperatures (RR = 2.23 (95% CI: 1.07, 4.64) at a minimum value of −3 °C), while at the maximum value (35.9 °C), the RR of 1.69 (95% CI: 1.01, 2.82) in the summer period indicated a moderate increase in risk. In terms of future projections, heat-related and extreme-heat-related mortality are higher under SSP5-8.5, while cold-related and extreme-cold-related mortality are generally higher under SSP2-4.5. Under the SSP2-4.5 scenario, the future periods of 2046–2065 and 2081–2100 showed a small net change in heat-related mortality. However, there is projected to be an increase in heat-related mortality due to increased heat, ranging from 0.13% to 0.14%. The impact of extreme heat is expected to result in a mortality increase of 0.03% to 0.04%, while extreme cold is expected to decrease mortality by −0.10%. Under the SSP5-8.5 scenario, the net change in mortality during the future period of 2046–2065 is estimated to decrease by −0.13%, with some uncertainty in the estimate. From 2081 to 2100, there is expected to be an estimated increase of 0.06% in mortality. The specific impact of increased heat shows an increase in heat-related mortality ranging from 0.15% to 0.17%, while extreme heat has an estimated increase of 0.04% to 0.05%. The developed framework provides a comprehensive assessment of excess mortality attributed to varying non-optimum temperatures for designing public health policies in Portugal.
The Impact of Ambient PM2.5 on Emergency Ambulance Dispatches Due to Circulatory System Disease Modified by Season and Temperature in Shenzhen, China
Authors: Cui Xuanye , Tian Yuchen , Yin Ziming , Huang Suli , Yin Ping
Published: February 2025

The adverse effects of short-term exposure to pollutants are the focus of many epidemiological studies. Little is known about the modification effects of season and temperature on the association between pollutants and the acute onset of circulatory diseases. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of PM2.5 on emergency ambulance dispatches (EADs) due to circulatory system diseases in different seasons and temperature levels, and to locate the vulnerable population. We collected data on daily emergency ambulances, meteorological data, and air pollution concentration in Shenzhen from 2013 to 2020. A distributed lag nonlinear model was conducted to assess the effect of PM2.5 on circulatory system disease emergency ambulance dispatches modified by season. In addition, generalized additive models were used to detect the interactive effect of PM2.5 and temperature on emergency ambulance dispatches due to circulatory disease. A 10 μg/m3 increase in PM2.5 concentration was associated with a 2.43% (1.47–3.40%) increase in the risk of circulatory system disease emergency ambulance dispatches over lags of 0–5 days during the cold season, compared to 0.75% (−0.25–1.76%) during the warm season. This trend was consistent across temperature levels, with a significant 2.42% (1.47–3.10%) increase on low-temperature days, while no significant effect was observed on high-temperature days. For young people, the effect of PM2.5 on circulatory system disease emergency ambulance dispatches was higher in the cold season and low temperature days. The cold season and low temperature significantly enhanced the adverse effect of PM2.5 on the acute onset of circulatory system diseases, especially in young people. It is critical to focus on the synergistic effects of temperature and pollutants on the health of different vulnerable populations in different regions and climates.
Effects of Magnetic Field on Modified Stokes Problems Involving Fluids Whose Viscosity Depends Exponentially on Pressure
Authors: Fetecau Constantin , Hanif Hanifa
Published: February 2025

In this study, precise analytical formulas were obtained for dimensionless steady-state velocity and shear stress in modified Stokes flow scenarios involving fluids whose viscosity varies exponentially with pressure, with magnetic effects and gravitational acceleration also taken into account. Actually, these are the first exact solutions for such motions of fluids with exponential dependence of viscosity on pressure in which magnetic effects are taken into consideration. They are important for experimental researchers who want to know the transition moment of a motion to the steady state. In addition, the exact solutions can be used to test numerical methods that are developed to study more complex motion problems. For validation, different limiting cases were explored, and several well-known results from previous studies were recovered. The impact of the magnetic field on steady-state behavior and fluid flow was visually represented and thoroughly examined. The findings demonstrated that fluids flowed more slowly and attained steady-state conditions more quickly when influenced by a magnetic field.
Structure-Borne Sound Suppression of a Strongly/Weakly Excited Curved Panel Using a Quadratic Nonlinear Resonance Effect
Authors: Lee Yiu-Yin
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the structure-borne sound suppression of a strongly/weakly excited curved panel. Quadratic nonlinear resonance can induce anti-symmetric modal responses to replace symmetric modal responses, even though the physical panel dimensions and excitation distribution are symmetric. Unlike cubic nonlinear resonance, quadratic nonlinear resonance can be induced regardless of whether the panel vibration amplitude is small or large. As the sound radiation efficiency of anti-symmetric responses is much lower than that of symmetric responses, this quadratic nonlinear resonance effect is thus used for sound suppression. A set of multimode formulations was developed from the nonlinear structural governing equation and sound radiation efficiency equation. The quadratic nonlinear resonant responses and some other nonlinear responses were computed from the multimode formulations. Modal convergence studies and parametric studies were performed to understand the effects of various parameters on the quadratic nonlinear responses and sound suppression. The results showed that when the panel was strongly excited, the difference between the peak sound levels in the linear and nonlinear cases was up to 12 dB, and when the panel was weakly excited, the difference was up to 6 dB.
Does Low Spoilage Under Cold Conditions Foster Cultural Complexity During the Foraging Era?—Agent-Based Modeling and Reinforcement-Learning Approach
Authors: Lee Minhyeok
Published: February 2025

Human cultural complexity did not arise in a vacuum. This study employs agent-based modeling (ABM) and ecological modeling perspectives, combined with reinforcement-learning techniques, to investigate whether conditions that allowed for the lower spoilage of stored food, often associated with colder climates and abundant large fauna, might have indirectly fostered the emergence of cultural complexity. Specifically, we developed a mathematical framework to capture how spoilage rates, yield levels, resource management skills, and cultural activities interact within a multi-agent system. Under the restrictive constraints, we proved that lower spoilage and adequate yields reduced the frequency of hunting, freeing time for cultural pursuits. We then implemented a reinforcement-learning simulation to validate these predictions by training agents in different (Y,p) environments, where Y is the yield and p is the probability of daily spoilage. Our regression analysis and visualizations showed strong correlations between stable conditions with lower spoilage and higher levels of cultural investment. While we do not claim to replicate prehistoric social realities directly, our findings highlight the potential of ABM and ecological modeling to illuminate how environmental factors influence the allocation of time to complex cultural activities. This work offers a computationally grounded perspective that bridges humanistic inquiries into the origins of culture with formal agent-based methods.
A High-Frequency Temporal-Interference Alternative Current Stimulation Device Using Pulse Amplitude Modulation with Push–Pull Current Sources
Authors: Bai Jia-Hao , Huang Szu-Chi , Lee Po-Lei , Shyu Kuo-Kai , Huang Chao-Jen , Chen Tsung-Chih , Lai Sheng-Ji
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a high-frequency Pulse Amplitude-Modulation Temporal-Interference (PAM-TI) current stimulation device, which utilizes two sets of Amplitude-modulated transcranial alternating current stimulation (AM-tACS): one AM frequency at f0 (where f0 = 2 kHz) (source 1) and the other AM frequency at f1 = f0 + △f (where f1 = 2.01 kHz) (source 2), to generate a △f (where △f = 10 Hz) envelope modulated at a fc (where fc = 100 kHz) high carrier frequency. The high carrier frequency reduces body impedance and conserves more stimulation power, allowing it to penetrate the skin and reach the subcutaneous region. The proposed PAM-TI technique elevates the two current sources to a 100 kHz carrier frequency. Instead of the challenges associated with generating high-frequency stimulation currents using an MCU and DAC, the proposed PAM-TI stimulation device achieves this by simply utilizing a pair of complementary pulse-width modulations (PWMs). The push–pull technique is employed to balance the charging currents between the anode and cathode, synchronizing the current timing of Source 1 and Source 2 under the fc modulation condition. To minimize signal attenuation, the PAM circuit is integrated directly into the electrode, ensuring the high-frequency signal is generated close to the body and preventing degradation from long wires. Additionally, a dry pin-type spring-loaded electrode is used to reduce interference caused by hair when placed on the head. The device’s validity and current directionality were verified using a scalp tissue-mimicking phantom composed of agar and saline.
Predicting Health-Related Quality of Life Using Social Determinants of Health: A Machine Learning Approach with the All of Us Cohort
Authors: Abegaz Tadesse M. , Ahmed Muktar , Ali Askal Ayalew , Bhagavathula Akshaya Srikanth
Published: February 2025

This study applied machine learning (ML) algorithms to predict health-related quality of life (HRQOL) using comprehensive social determinants of health (SDOH) features. Data from the All of Us dataset, comprising participants with complete HRQOL and SDOH records, were analyzed. The primary outcome was HRQOL, which encompassed physical and mental health components, while SDOH features included social, educational, economic, environmental, and healthcare access factors. Three ML algorithms, namely logistic regression, XGBoost, and Random Forest, were tested. The models achieved accuracy ranges of 0.73–0.77 for HRQOL, 0.70–0.71 for physical health, and 0.72–0.77 for mental health, with corresponding area under the curve ranges of 0.81–0.84, 0.74–0.76, and 0.83–0.85, respectively. Emotional stability, activity management, spiritual beliefs, and comorbidity were identified as key predictors. These findings underscore the critical role of SDOH in predicting HRQOL and suggests future research to focus on applying such models to diverse patient populations and specific clinical conditions.
Diagnosis and Staging of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Using Biomarker-Directed Aptamer Panels
Authors: Kjær Mikkel B. , Jørgensen Asger G. , Fjelstrup Søren , Dupont Daniel M. , Bus Claus , Eriksen Peter L. , Thomsen Karen L. , Risikesan Jeyanthini , Nielsen Søren , Wernberg Charlotte W. , Lauridsen Mette M. , Bugianesi Elisabetta , Rosso Chiara , Grønbæk Henning , Kjems Jørgen
Published: February 2025

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects one-third of adults globally. Despite efforts to develop non-invasive diagnostic tools, liver biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing metabolic dysfunction-associated steatohepatitis (MASH) and assessing fibrosis. This study investigated RNA aptamer panels, selected using APTASHAPE technology, for non-invasive MASLD diagnosis and fibrosis stratification. Aptamer panels were selected in a cohort of individuals with MASLD (development cohort, n = 77) and tested in separate cohorts: one with MASLD (test cohort, n = 57) and one assessed for bariatric surgery (bariatric cohort, n = 62). A panel distinguishing MASLD without steatohepatitis from MASH accurately stratified individuals in the developmentcohort (AUC = 0.83) but failed in the test and bariatric cohorts. It did, however, distinguish healthy controls from individuals with MASLD, achieving an AUC of 0.72 in the test cohort. A panel for fibrosis stratification differentiated F0 from F3–4 fibrosis in the development cohort (AUC = 0.68) but not in other cohorts. Mass spectrometry identified five plasma proteins as potential targets of the discriminative aptamers, with complement factor H suggested as a novel MASLD biomarker. In conclusion, APTASHAPE shows promise as a non-invasive tool for diagnosing and staging MASLD and identifying associated plasma biomarkers.
Thermomechanical Virtual Simulation of Bone Metastases with Percutaneous Cementoplasty and Internal Fixation
Authors: de Sá Pires Catarina G. R. , Marques Maria A. , Fonseca Elza M. M. , Oliveira Vânia C. C.
Published: February 2025

Bone metastases occur when cancer cells from the primary tumor spread to the bones. The incidence of bone metastases is increasing due to the longer survival of patients with primary tumors, driven by advances in cancer treatments. In patients with multiple bone metastases, care is primarily palliative, aiming to improve their quality of life through pain relief. Bone metastases are strongly associated with pathological fractures, particularly in the femur. In these cases, minimally invasive treatments such as percutaneous cementoplasty and internal fixation with intramedullary nails are growing in popularity. Methods: This manuscript focuses on studying these two therapies by developing virtual models using ANSYS® software. Thermal and thermomechanical analyses were conducted to evaluate the heat effect resulting from the polymerization of different types of bone cement and to assess the benefits of combining it with internal fixation using intramedullary nails made of different materials. Results: The results highlight the advantages of combining these two techniques compared to cementoplasty alone. Furthermore, the use of Gentamicin Bone Cement (CMW 3®) with an intramedullary nail made of either material has been shown to provide a more significant functional improvement. Conclusions: The combination of cementoplasty with internal fixation is more effective than cementoplasty alone. The use of CMW 3® cement with an intramedullary nail made of either material provides greater control over the growth of the metastatic lesion. The chosen injection angle results in an excessive volume of cement, causing a high degree of thermal necrosis.
Performance of the Baseline Sport Concussion Assessment Tool in Male and Female Spanish Amateur Rugby Players
Authors: Solís-Mencía Cristian , Ramos-Álvarez Juan José , Maté-Muñoz José Luis , Montoya-Miñano Juan José , Martín Laura , García-Horcajo Pablo , Requeno-Conde Carlota , Oliva-Iglesias Elena , De Sousa-De Sousa Luis , García-Fernández Pablo
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The Sport Concussion Assessment Tool (SCAT) is a test used to screen for suspected concussions, with the results compared to baseline values. If current baseline values are unavailable, they can be compared to baseline values obtained from professional rugby players. The aim of this study was to evaluate the baseline SCAT values in Hispanic community rugby players of both sexes. This cohort study used an observational, prospective, and descriptive design. Methods: Participants: A total of 81 female (age: 23.3 ± 3.3 years) and 138 male (age: 23.7 ± 4.3 years) Spanish rugby players who participated in national-level competitions. Interventions (or assessment of risk factors of independent variables): The SCAT was administered as part of the pre-season medical testing, including symptoms endorsed, cognitive submode performance, and balance performance. Results: Most of the Spanish community rugby players presented some symptom in the SCAT (male = 75.4%; female = 91.4%). The number and severity of the symptoms reported by the male players were lower than those reported by the female players (p = 0.001). The time to complete the tandem gait test and balance test showed differences between sexes (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The baseline SCAT values of Spanish community rugby players differ from those of professional players, leading to the recommendation of conducting the SCAT for all players before the beginning of the season. If baseline evaluations cannot be performed, the results obtained could serve as a basis for developing reference values for community rugby in the Hispanic population. Recording the menstrual cycle phase during which the SCAT is performed may help improve its interpretation.
The Heart of Transformation: Exploring Artificial Intelligence in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammed A. , Rizk Rodrigue , Chiu Conroy , Zhang Jing J. , Scholl Jamie L. , Bosch Taylor J. , Singh Arun , Baugh Lee A. , McGough Jeffrey S. , Santosh KC , Chen William C.W.
Published: February 2025

The application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) in medicine and healthcare has been extensively explored across various areas. AI and ML can revolutionize cardiovascular disease management by significantly enhancing diagnostic accuracy, disease prediction, workflow optimization, and resource utilization. This review summarizes current advancements in AI and ML concerning cardiovascular disease, including their clinical investigation and use in primary cardiac imaging techniques, common cardiovascular disease categories, clinical research, patient care, and outcome prediction. We analyze and discuss commonly used AI and ML models, algorithms, and methodologies, highlighting their roles in improving clinical outcomes while addressing current limitations and future clinical applications. Furthermore, this review emphasizes the transformative potential of AI and ML in cardiovascular practice by improving clinical decision making, reducing human error, enhancing patient monitoring and support, and creating more efficient healthcare workflows for complex cardiovascular conditions.
The Balance in the Head: How Developmental Factors Explain Relationships Between Brain Asymmetries and Mental Diseases
Authors: Manns Martina , Juckel Georg , Freund Nadja
Published: February 2025

Cerebral lateralisation is a core organising principle of the brain that is characterised by a complex pattern of hemispheric specialisations and interhemispheric interactions. In various mental disorders, functional and/or structural hemispheric asymmetries are changed compared to healthy controls, and these alterations may contribute to the primary symptoms and cognitive impairments of a specific disorder. Since multiple genetic and epigenetic factors influence both the pathogenesis of mental illness and the development of brain asymmetries, it is likely that the neural developmental pathways overlap or are even causally intertwined, although the timing, magnitude, and direction of interactions may vary depending on the specific disorder. However, the underlying developmental steps and neuronal mechanisms are still unclear. In this review article, we briefly summarise what we know about structural, functional, and developmental relationships and outline hypothetical connections, which could be investigated in appropriate animal models. Altered cerebral asymmetries may causally contribute to the development of the structural and/or functional features of a disorder, as neural mechanisms that trigger neuropathogenesis are embedded in the asymmetrical organisation of the developing brain. Therefore, the occurrence and severity of impairments in neural processing and cognition probably cannot be understood independently of the development of the lateralised organisation of intra- and interhemispheric neuronal networks. Conversely, impaired cellular processes can also hinder favourable asymmetry development and lead to cognitive deficits in particular.
Associations of Grandparenting Dimensions/Styles with Mental Health in Children and Adolescents: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Zhao Lifen , Tian Maoye , Wang Zhiyou , Hu Dandan
Published: February 2025

In recent decades, grandparents’ increased involvement in child-rearing around the world has accelerated research on grandparenting. However, findings have remained inconsistent, and no reviews have examined how grandparenting dimensions and styles affect child and adolescent mental health. In our systematic review and meta-analysis, we synthesized evidence on the relationship between dimensions and styles of grandparenting and children’s and adolescents’ mental health. In nine databases, we identified 3197 studies on the relationship between dimensions and styles of grandparenting and children’s and adolescents’ mental health, 20 of which we ultimately reviewed. To better integrate the results, we performed a meta-analysis of studies addressing the same mental health outcomes (i.e., depression, anxiety, and internalizing symptoms). Moreover, to synthesize evidence from the studies, we conducted both random- and common-effects meta-analyses. The reviewed studies involved 11,434 children overall. Among our findings, the associations between positive dimensions and styles of grandparenting and children’s and adolescents’ depression and anxiety were moderately significant (depression: r = −0.33; anxiety: r = −0.12), as were the correlations between negative dimensions and styles and all three mental health outcomes (depression: r = 0.15; anxiety: r = 0.15; internalizing symptoms: r = 0.25). In general, positive dimensions and styles of grandparenting are negatively associated with mental health conditions, whereas negative ones are positively associated. In this article, we discuss those and other findings and propose directions for future studies.
The Impact of Visual Elements of Packaging Design on Purchase Intention: Brand Experience as a Mediator in the Tea Bag Product Category
Authors: Liu Chang , Samsudin Mat Redhuan , Zou Yuwen
Published: February 2025

While packaging design plays a vital role in experience-oriented markets, how multiple visual elements influence purchase intention through brand experience remains unclear. This study addresses this gap by employing innovative orthogonal experiments to examine the complex relationship between the visual elements of packaging design and purchase intention for low-involvement products, integrating both design and marketing perspectives. Through orthogonal experimental design, we developed 14 packaging prototypes as stimuli by systematically manipulating five visual elements (Colour, Graphics, Logo, Typography, and Layout). The framework and prototypes were validated through expert evaluation. Data were collected via a cross-sectional survey from 490 tea bag consumers and analysed using SPSS (version 29.0) for preliminary data processing and Mplus (version 8.3) for structural equation modelling. Our results reveal the direct effects of visual packaging elements on consumer purchase intention. Notably, Colour, Graphics, Logo, and Layout significantly influence purchase intention through brand experience mediation. Importantly, our multi-level analysis of visual elements unveils distinct patterns in how different design levels (e.g., colour harmony, graphic types) affect consumer responses. This study provides novel theoretical insights into how consumers make purchase decisions based on packaging design visual elements, addressing a significant gap in existing research. Unlike previous studies focusing on isolated design elements, our systematic classification and multi-level analysis offer both theoretical insights into packaging design mechanisms and practical guidelines for designers and practitioners.
Platform Governance, Institutional Distance, and Seller Trust in Cross-Border E-Commerce
Authors: Sun Yulu , Qu Qixing
Published: February 2025

Trust from sellers is essential for the success of cross-border e-commerce (CBEC) platforms, and effective platform governance plays a crucial role in shaping and maintaining this trust. However, institutional distance can lead to deviations in sellers’ understanding and implementation of platform governance mechanisms, posing a threat to the establishment of trust relationships. Research on the impact of platform governance mechanisms on trust from the seller’s perspective is still relatively limited. Therefore, we aim to investigate the mechanisms through which formal governance mechanisms (normative, supervisory, and reward–punishment mechanisms) and relational governance mechanisms (community building) influence seller trust, and we examine the moderating effect of institutional distance. Through empirical analysis of 391 valid questionnaires, our results show that normative mechanisms and community building enhance seller trust by reducing their perceived risks, while the supervisory mechanism and reward–punishment mechanism directly affect seller-perceived risks and platform trust. Institutional distance negatively moderates the governance effectiveness of these mechanisms. Our findings offer significant theoretical contributions by advancing the understanding of seller behavior, extending platform governance and trust theory in CBEC research field, and enriching institutional distance frameworks, while providing practical insights for platforms to optimize governance mechanisms to foster seller trust.