Browse Articles
Discover research articles across all indexed journals
Pedro A. Sanchez (1940–2026), a social soil scientist
Cuban-born Pedro A. Sanchez (1940-2026) became the face of tropical soil science at Cornell University and the North Carolina State University. His combination of process-based understanding of soils, emphasis on farmer choices and conducive policy environments earned him the 2022 World Food prize. After leadership roles in international agroforestry research in Kenya, he returned to academia at Columbia University and the University of Florida, and as a member of the U.S. National Academy of Sciences.
Telemedicine for rotator cuff syndrome: Asynchronous exercise and remote follow-up in a randomized controlled study
Introduction Rotator cuff syndrome (RCS) is a common musculoskeletal condition that requires rehabilitation. Telemedicine involving asynchronous exercise video and remote follow-up has emerged as a potential alternative to conventional in-person rehabilitation, offering advantages in accessibility and cost-effectiveness. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of telemedicine compared to conventional methods in the rehabilitation of RCS. Methods This randomized controlled trial was conducted at a public hospital physiatry clinic between November 2023 and June 2024. The telemedicine group (TG) received asynchronous exercise videos and remote video-call follow-ups; the control group (CG) received illustrated exercise brochures and in-person follow-ups. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, 15 th day, and 6 th month. The primary outcomes were pain (measured using the Visual Analog Scale, VAS) and functional levels (assessed using the Quick Disabilities of Arm, Shoulder, and Hand, QuickDASH). Secondary outcomes included exercise adherence, satisfaction, and travel burden. Data were analyzed using linear mixed-effects models. Results Trial included 90 patients (mean age 51.19 ± 7.07 years), randomly assigned to TG (n = 45) or CG (n = 45). Both groups demonstrated within-group improvements in VAS (mean change −1.88 [95% CI −2.56 to −1.20]) and QuickDASH (−15.6 [95% CI −21.0 to −10.2]) scores from baseline to 15 th day (p < 0.001) and in VAS from baseline to 6 th month (−4.82 [95% CI −5.50 to −4.13], p < 0.001). No between-group differences were found in pain reduction at 15 th day (estimate = −0.27, 95% CI −1.44 to 0.89, p = 0.645) or at 6 th month (estimate = −0.40, 95% CI −1.57 to 0.77, p = 0.499), nor in functional improvement at 15 th day (estimate = −2.68, 95% CI −12.90 to 7.57, p = 0.607). The TG demonstrated higher exercise adherence (p = 0.027) and satisfaction (p < 0.001). Based on predefined minimal clinically important difference thresholds, all group differences fell within non-inferiority margins. The cost-effectiveness of telemedicine was 266.4 km and 1325.6 minutes saved per unit of VAS, and 11.34 km and 56.41 minutes saved per unit of QuickDASH improvement. Conclusion Telemedicine is a viable alternative to traditional management of RCS, providing comparable pain relief, functional outcomes, and reduced travel burden. Future studies should assess long-term effects and broader populations.
Generative cerebral vasculature visualization using spatial transcriptomic data
Abstract The brain is sustained by an intricate vascular network that provides a continuous supply of nutrients and oxygen essential for its function. Understanding the structural variability and region-specific function of this neurovascular system is essential for interpreting neurological alterations in disease models. Leveraging the spatial mRNA-guided generative model Tera-MIND (simulating Tera -scale M ouse bra IN s using a patch-based and boundary-aware D iffusion model), we propose to predict the spatial organization of brain vasculature by the co-expression patterns of Cldn5 and Acta2 genes and their learned attention map at cell-level resolution. These findings demonstrate the capability of generative AI models trained on single-cell spatial transcriptomic data to capture biologically meaningful higher-order structures. They highlight the potential of such models as in silico systems - GenAI-based simulations that generate realistic representations of biological architecture from spatial molecular data - for high-throughput exploration of vascular function and its dysregulation in neurological disorders. Taken together, our approach repurposes existing spatial transcriptomics datasets to derive new spatial insights into vascular organization, without the need for additional tissue processing.
Comprehensive protocol for mixed reality visualization and navigation using 3D Slicer
Advancements in mixed reality (MxR) technology have significantly enhanced neurosurgical navigation by improving visualization, spatial accuracy, and surgical outcomes. MxR navigation (MRN) provides a cost-effective and intuitive alternative to conventional navigation systems, enabling stable spatial mapping and independent navigation. Despite this potential, implementing MRN is complex, creating a need for structured workflows and rigorous accuracy assessments. To address this gap, this protocol presents a structured, modular, and reproducible lab protocol based on the open-source platform 3D Slicer, enabling effective implementation and evaluation of developed MRN systems in neurosurgical contexts. This protocol clearly defines sequential steps, required inputs, and expected outputs for both visualization-oriented and navigation-oriented workflows. It encompasses preprocessing (anonymization, quality checks, multimodal image fusion), semi-automatic segmentation of anatomical structures (e.g., lesions, vessels, fiber tracts), and the generation of precise 3D surface models (STL or OBJ formats). For navigation scenarios, the protocol includes parameterization of fiducial landmarks, anatomical surfaces, and laser projections for precise virtual-to-physical registration. Accuracy and performance validation are rigorously assessed using virtual and physical static digital twins, generating quantitative displacement analyses and intuitive visualizations directly interpretable in clinical and research environments. The modular design and exclusive reliance on open-source software ensure reproducibility, flexibility, and broad interdisciplinary accessibility, benefiting users from diverse backgrounds with basic knowledge in anatomy, neurosurgery, and computer graphics.
A zero-trust digital twin framework for privacy-preserving multi-dataset intrusion detection in industrial IoT with lightweight blockchain auditing
A phosphorous-based dendrimer targets mitochondria and normalizes the keratinocyte proliferation/differentiation balance to improve psoriasis
Psoriasis vulgaris is a common chronic inflammatory skin disease associated with hyperproliferation and defective differentiation of keratinocytes. Despite new effective treatments using biologicals targeting key cytokines or their receptors, innovative therapeutic approaches remain to be discovered. Here, psoriasis-like imiquimod-induced skin lesions in mice were improved when topically treated with a nano-sized, phosphorus-based dendrimer capped with azabisphosphonate groups, so-called IMD-006, and previously known as ABP dendrimer. This effect was confirmed using ex vivo and in vitro human psoriasis models generated by adding T helper (Th)1-type and Th17-type inflammatory cytokines to skin explants and reconstructed epidermises, in which topically-applied IMD-006 normalized keratinocyte proliferation and differentiation. In 2D keratinocyte cultures, IMD-006 also decreased proliferation whilst promoting differentiation. It was internalized by keratinocytes and distributed to mitochondria. After treatment with IMD-006, changes to the morphology of the mitochondrial network, increases in mitochondrial ROS levels, and co-localization of mitochondria with lysosomes suggest it promotes mitochondrial degradation, a key step in keratinocyte differentiation. Therefore, our results show that IMD-006 could be a promising candidate for the topical treatment of psoriasis.
Cross-media style transfer in art: preserving artistic intent in diverse media using GANs
Biobanking of gynecologic cancer biospecimens: Development, quality control, and translational applications
Introduction This study presents a nationwide infrastructure for the collection and utilization of gynecologic cancer biospecimens, established through the Korea Biobank Project. We comprehensively describe the biobanking strategy, quality control protocols, and development of secondary resources to support future translational and discovery-based research. Methods We established a gynecologic cancer biobank within the Korea Biobank Project (KBP) through a multi-institutional consortium. Biospecimens, including blood, tumor tissue, urine, and ascites, were collected from 294 patients with endometrial, cervical, or ovarian cancers. Pre-analytical variables were documented using the Standard PREanalytical Code (SPREC), and all samples were tracked with 2D barcodes. Secondary resources were developed, including whole-genome sequencing (WGS) datasets, immortalized human ovarian surface epithelial (IHOSE) cell lines, patient-derived xenografts (PDX), tumor organoids, and tissue microarrays (TMAs). Results A total of 6,168 biospecimens were archived. WGS was performed on 386 cancer samples, including 172 paired tumor–normal sets. Four IHOSE cell lines were authenticated and validated for stability, 14 PDX models retained histological fidelity across passages, and patient-derived ovarian cancer organoids demonstrated drug sensitivity consistent with clinical response patterns. TMAs were constructed from 519 tumors, supporting large-scale molecular profiling. Industry collaborations further highlighted the translational utility of these resources. Conclusions This study describes the development and application of a gynecologic cancer biobank that integrates standardized biospecimen collection, rigorous QC, and the generation of diverse secondary resources. By linking these resources with clinical and epidemiological data, the biobank provides a scalable and accessible platform for precision oncology and academic–industry collaboration.
Development of a high-precision evaluation system for radial pulse wave applanation tonometry devices
Abstract The demand for wearable devices for daily health management and tonometry-based pulse wave measurement has grown rapidly. However, the absence of standardized and physiologically realistic evaluation systems remains a major barrier to developing reliable and clinically applicable devices. Although ISO 18615:2020 defines general performance requirements for electronic radial pulse tonometric devices, no evaluation platform has been available to assess these standards with higher precision. We developed a novel high-precision evaluation system that integrates a 3D cam-based pulse wave generation unit, wrist simulation unit, system control unit, and applied pressure unit. This platform enables controlled and reproducible simulation of physiological pulse waves, including variations in base pressure, pulse pressure, applied pressure, and radial skin and arterial properties, which have been difficult to replicate in previous systems. The system was designed not only to meet but also to exceed ISO 18,615 requirements, thereby enabling precise performance assessment. Validation experiments evaluated pulse wave precision and range, as well as artificial radial artery characteristics. The system demonstrated high reproducibility and accuracy. The mean coefficients of variation (CVs) were 0.29% for applied pressure, 0.11% for pulse waves, and 0.05% for pulse rate. The CVs of pulse wave shape parameters H and T were 1.06% and 1.60%, respectively. The systole/diastole ratio (SDR) ranged from 24.45% to 57.69% with a 1.04% error ratio, the pulse rate from 19.93 bpm to 204.90 bpm with a 0.34% error ratio, and the base pressure from − 3.17 mmHg to 116.51 mmHg with a 3.60% error ratio. This study presents the first comprehensive evaluation platform capable of reproducing physiologically realistic radial arterial pulse waves with high precision and reproducibility. By referencing and surpassing ISO 18,615 performance requirements, the system provides rigorous and reliable assessment of device performance. This platform reduces variability, enables precise calibration, and offers a benchmark for evaluating tonometry-based and wearable pulse wave measurement devices. It is expected to accelerate the development of high-quality cardiovascular monitoring technologies and support the clinical translation of wearable health monitoring devices.
Emotion recognition based on feature weight analysis of multiple physiological signals
Emotion recognition stands as a complex and prominent challenge within contemporary artificial intelligence research. Deep learning on physiological signals has boosted emotion recognition, yet unimodal limits, ignored channel importance, and temporal cues hinder feature extraction. Within this investigation, we introduce a multimodal framework for emotion recognition, integrating various attention mechanisms to refine feature extraction from multimodal physiological data, which in turn elevates the precision of emotion detection. Firstly, this paper fully exploits the distributed nature of multi-channel EEG signals by extracting micro-differential-entropy (DE) emotion matrices from both EEG and peripheral physiological signals. A channel-attention mechanism is then introduced to measure the similarity among electrode-channel samples of the physiological signals, yielding sample-importance weights that are subsequently probabilistically redistributed across the channels. With these reweighted signals, depthwise-separable convolutional neural networks and long short-term memory networks are employed to capture their spatial and channel-attention information. Secondly, recognizing that latent emotional information exists between temporal slices of multimodal physiological signals, the paper fuses the extracted features from different modalities into a unified representation. A multi-head attention mechanism is integrated into a recurrent network with ordered neurons to explore the relative importance of temporal sequences across physiological samples, thereby achieving emotion recognition. Finally, the proposed approach is evaluated on two distinct datasets, and experimental results demonstrate its strong generalization capability.
The biological roots of political division: mapping the neural architecture of ideology and social influence
Beyond mono fertilization: Mixed fertilization enhances productivity and quality of chili (Capsicum frutescens)
While the effects of different fertilization strategies on chili ( Capsicum frutescens ) cultivation have been previously examined, the lack of comparative assessment of mixed versus mono-fertilization approaches limits our understanding. To address this gap, we conducted an experiment using a completely randomized design (CRD) with five fertilization treatments along with four replications of each treatment (e.g., Leucaena leucocephala leaf litter and recommended dose of synthetic fertilizers (RDF)) to observe the effect of these treatments on productivity traits, NPP (net primary productivity), quality, and overall yield of chili. We found that mixed fertilization (T 4 ) results higher yield (~ 60% and ~ 90%) compared to control (T 0 ) and sole organic fertilizer (T 1 + T 2 ) respectively. The T 4 treatment showed consistently higher plant height, leaf and fruit number at 60 DAT, as well as higher flowering at 45 DAT compared to other treatments. We also found that NPP (above- and belowground combined) was higher in T 3 and T₄ treatments compared to control and organic fertilization. Similarly, quality traits such as vitamin C, capsaicin content, and SPAD reading were higher under mixed fertilization. Linear fit regression model indicated that both ANPP and yield were positively associated with vegetative and reproductive traits, particularly leaf number and flowering, highlighting that structural growth directly contributed to productivity gains. Overall, our results suggest that mixed fertilization enhances both productivity and quality traits of chili. Therefore, integrated organic and inorganic fertilizer management are recommended to improve yield and quality of chili.
Integrated bioactivity assessment of Syzygium aromaticum bud extract from Sudan shows antimicrobial and antioxidant potential
Retraction: Thioredoxin Glutathione Reductase as a Novel Drug Target: Evidence from Schistosoma japonicum
Anti-amoebic and biocompatible properties of nephrite-embedded contact lenses
Twelve‑month rehospitalization after IBD‑related hospitalization in Germany: A retrospective cohort study using administrative hospital data
Background/Aims Rehospitalization is an important indicator of disease burden and healthcare utilization in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), yet real-world data from Germany remain scarce. This study aimed to describe 12‑month rehospitalization rates after IBD‑related inpatient treatment in Germany and to identify administrative and clinical factors recorded in hospital ICD‑10 coding that are associated with rehospitalization. Methods In this multicenter retrospective cohort study, anonymized administrative data from 49 German hospitals (Section 21 dataset, 2019–2023) were analyzed. Patients hospitalized with a primary diagnosis of Crohn’s disease (ICD-10 K50) or ulcerative colitis (ICD-10 K51) were included. The primary endpoint was any rehospitalization within 12 months after the index admission. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression models were used to determine factors of rehospitalization. Results A total of 3,202 patients were included (51.3% Crohn’s disease, 48.7% ulcerative colitis; mean age 44.2 years; 50.1% female). The 12-month rehospitalization rate was 22.6%, with a median time of 92 days (IQR 61–184). Independent factors in adjusted analyses were admission to a surgical department (AOR 1.79), peritoneal adhesions (AOR 1.98), type 2 diabetes mellitus (AOR 1.54), and hypokalemia (AOR 1.30). Age, sex, and IBD subtype showed no association. Conclusion Using administrative hospital data, we identified several ICD-10–coded comorbidities and treatment characteristics associated with higher rehospitalization rates. These findings highlight subgroups that may benefit from improved post-discharge management, although clinical interpretation is limited by the administrative nature of the dataset.
Density clustering based fast and stable satellite selection for LEO navigation
Reply to Sacco: Complete spaces as outcomes of evolutionary optimization
Developing a programme theory of a complex, home-based rehabilitation intervention for recovery after an episode of delirium
Background Delirium in older adults is associated with persistent cognitive and functional decline, increased institutionalisation, and higher mortality. Evidence-based strategies to support recovery after hospitalisation remain limited. This paper outlines the development and refinement of the programme theory underpinning RecoverED, a novel, home-based, multicomponent rehabilitation intervention designed to support post-delirium recovery. Methods We applied a realist-informed, multi-stage process to develop the RecoverED programme theory. This included a rapid realist review, qualitative interviews with older adults, carers, and healthcare professionals, an expert panel workshop, iterative programme theory meetings, and a process evaluation embedded within a single-arm feasibility trial. Data were synthesised into a logic model linking intervention components to hypothesised mechanisms and outcomes. Results The programme theory outlines how cognitive and physical rehabilitation, psychosocial support, health monitoring, lifestyle guidance, and delirium education are expected to promote recovery. Cognitive activities aim to rebuild executive function and daily independence; physical rehabilitation maintains mobility; psychosocial support reduces anxiety and promotes confidence; health monitoring and lifestyle guidance address comorbidities; and delirium education supports sense-making. Key mechanisms include personalised goal-setting, continuity of professional support, and integration with community services. The process evaluation within the feasibility trial confirmed the relevance and acceptability of these pathways, while suggesting refinements to training, psychosocial strategies, and education delivery. Conclusion This paper provides an empirically grounded framework detailing the development and refinement of a programme theory for post-delirium rehabilitation, illustrating the value of flexible, theory-driven approaches to guiding recovery.