12703036 research outputs found
Sort by
Rethinking estrogen receptor β in EAOC: a synergistic modulator in a genomically informed landscape
No full textAbstract Endometriosis-associated ovarian cancer (EAOC), encompassing subtypes like ovarian clear cell (OCCC) and endometrioid (OEC) carcinoma, represents a distinct Type I malignancy arising from endometriotic lesions. These tumors are characterized by a specific molecular landscape, including high-frequency driver mutations in genes such as ARID1A, PIK3CA, and PTEN. Within this setting, the role of estrogen receptor β (ERβ), whose expression is progressively upregulated during malignant transformation, requires a nuanced re-evaluation. This review repositions ERβ not as a primary oncogenic driver, but as a critical, spatiotemporal modulator. Its principal function appears to be potentiating pro-survival signaling, such as the PI3K/AKT pathway, within a cellular environment already primed by constitutive genetic alterations. Furthermore, ERβ appears to couple apoptosis resistance with microenvironmental remodeling and metastatic programming. We further dissect the role of the downstream ERβ–brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF)/Tropomyosin receptor kinase B (TrkB) signaling axis, proposing it as a key cooperative network that provides parallel and compensatory survival signals. The central thesis is that the significance of this axis is profoundly context-dependent, and its roles should be interpreted alongside the tumor’s underlying genomic status. Finally, we outline translational prospects, arguing that targeting this pathway will require precision medicine strategies, including composite biomarkers and rational combination therapies. These strategies should be tailored to the specific molecular subtype of each patient’s tumor
Deciphering the shared genetic architecture between female reproductive disorders and psychiatric disorders
No full textAbstract Background The clinical association between female reproductive disorders, such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome(PCOS), uterine leiomyoma, and female infertility and psychiatric disorders, such as major depressive disorder(MDD), schizophrenia, and anxiety disorders has been widely reported. However, the genetic mechanisms underlying their comorbidity remain unclear. This study aimed to elucidate the genetic links between these disease categories through comprehensive genomic analyses. Methods We analyzed genome-wide association study data from the Psychiatric Genomics Consortium and FinnGen database. Genetic correlations were estimated using linkage disequilibrium score regression and high-definition likelihood methods. Cross-trait meta-analyses through Multi-Trait Analysis of Genome-Wide Association Studies and Cross-Phenotype Association Analysis identified pleiotropic loci, followed by Fine-mapping with the ANNOVAR tool. Gene-based analyses integrated summary-data-based Mendelian randomization, multi-marker analysis of genomic annotation, and genome-wide complex trait analysis-fast gene-based association test approaches. Bidirectional Mendelian randomization assessed causal relationships using several complementary methods. Results We identified significant genetic correlations between endometriosis and Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, Bipolar disorder(BD), and MDD, as well as between infertility/PCOS and MDD. Cross-trait analyses pinpointed five shared loci, with fine-mapping supporting their role as credible causal variants. Gene annotation implicated specific candidate genes, including ARL14EP for the endometriosis-BD link, which was further validated across SMR, MAGMA, and GCTAfastBAT analyses. Mendelian randomization demonstrated a causal effect of MDD on the risk of both endometriosis and infertility
Comparative analysis of water footprints among urban and rural agricultural households in southeast Nigeria
No full textAbstract Water scarcity remains a growing challenge in Southeast Nigeria, where agriculture sustains both peri-urban and rural livelihoods. This study analyzed the total water footprint (WF) of agricultural households and its components, identifying major water-consuming activities in urban and rural farming households in Enugu State. A multistage sampling procedure selected 64 participants (33 urban and 31 rural households). Data were collected through semi-structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlation analysis, the Vester matrix, and Ordinary Least Squares regression. Results showed that the total WF of urban agricultural households (19,516.9 m3/month) was 6.6% higher than that of rural households (17,088.2 m3/month). However, the WF components revealed distinct patterns. The blue WF of rural households (40.5 m3/month) exceeded that of urban households (36.9 m3/month) by 4.7%, reflecting greater use of surface and groundwater for drinking and cooking. Conversely, the green WF of urban households (17,976.1 m3/month) was 6.0% higher than that of rural households (15,764.3 m3/month), while the gray WF, representing water used for daily domestic activities, was also higher in urban areas (1503.9 m3/month) than in rural areas (1283.4 m3/month), a 7.9% difference that was statistically significant. Farmland size significantly influenced the total WF of both urban (p < 0.01) and rural (p < 0.05) households, while household size showed weaker positive effects. Correlation analysis revealed a strong positive relationship between the blue and green WFs of rural households (r = 0.82, p < 0.001). The Vester matrix identified inefficient water use in urban households and limited water-saving devices in rural households as critical drivers of water consumption. Hence, the study underscores the need for context-specific water management strategies, including the promotion of rainwater harvesting, improved irrigation efficiency, and behavior-change interventions to reduce household-level water footprints in Southeast Nigeria
Study on the identification of karst surface collapse via UAV photography based on the YOLO model
No full textAbstract Surface collapse is a relatively common geological disaster in karst areas, characterized by sudden occurrence and continuous development. Large-scale ground construction operations need to identify it in advance to reduce its adverse effects. This paper, based on the Zala Mountain photovoltaic project of the Jinping Hydropower Station in Liangshan Prefecture, Sichuan Province, conducts research on the identification and detection of karst surface collapse. Field topographic and geomorphic data are obtained through Unmanned Aerial Vehicle photography and augmented processing. The You Only Look Once model is used for target recognition of karst surface collapse, and the effectiveness of the model is evaluated and analyzed based on indicators such as recall rate and precision rate, which can provide technical support for engineering construction in karst subsidence area
Research on automatic location algorithm of key node of line loss in low voltage distribution network
No full textAbstract In a complex and changeable low-voltage distribution network environment, conventional positioning algorithms may suffer from insufficient accuracy or even misjudgment due to factors such as a complex network structure, numerous line branches, and significant load variations. To address this, an automatic location algorithm is proposed for identifying key nodes of line loss in low-voltage distribution networks. The missing value range is estimated using the nearest neighbor algorithm, and the interpolation value is dynamically adjusted to fit the data range. Considering the changes in the operating interval of the distribution network after integrating distributed power, a reward-and-punishment mechanism is introduced to adjust the allocation of line loss. A recurrent neural network (RNN) is employed to extract the characteristic patterns of line loss, and the analytic hierarchy process is applied to optimize the selection of line loss indicators. Furthermore, a correlation measurement method is utilized to compute real-time anomaly location timing, and a dynamic measurement space is established. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves a positioning error of less than 0.2, with the predicted transformer iron loss (207.1 kW) being the closest to the actual value (207.0 kW). The normalized value is approximately 0.2, and the line loss increase rate matches the real value at around 10.24%
Statistical optimization of radiative tri-hybrid nanofluid flow over a convectively heated surface with Maxwell and Smoluchowski slip conditions
No full textAbstract The on-going analysis considers the consequences of multiple slips effects on the tri-hybrid nanofluid movement by the inclusion of TiO2, Cu and Al2O3 in the base liquid water across an enlarging plane. The Maxwell model velocity slip with the Smoluchowski slip temperature is examined in conjunction with thermal radiation, and a heat sink is implemented in this study. The mathematical framework is constructed according to the stated assumptions, which are nonlinear and a suitable transformation is required to transform these into dimensionless governing equations for both the velocity and temperature. Further, these systems of equations are tackled numerically; adopting a Runge-Kutta of order four assisted shooting technique. The authentication of the outcome, combined with the convergence analysis of the methodology, is showcased for certain values of the factors used to evaluate the heat efficiency rate, and the physical interpretation of the allied parameters, equipped with the flow profile, is graphically presented. The assessment of tri-hybrid nanofluid is vital for the heat transport properties assigned in various sectors such as industries, bio-medical, engineering, etc. In particular, the cooling solutions for electronics, the cancer therapy and waste heat energy recovery, etc., the contribution of tri-hybrid nanofluid is essential. A rigorous statistical approach, such as “response surface methodology (RSM)” adopting “central composite design (CCD)” is utilized for optimizing heat transfer rate for the inclusion of distinct factors, and “analysis of variance (ANOVA)” is used for the validation of the result through testing. The observation reveals that the fluid velocity is controlled by the enhanced velocity slip. Further, the radiative heat presented by the inclusion of thermal radiation encourages the heat transport properties. Again, the correlation between the factors and the response of the Nusselt number with the value of R lead to a best fit quadratic model obtained statistically
The effect of music therapy on pain management: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
No full textAbstract Introduction Pain management is a vital aspect of healthcare, but traditional methods, such as medication, often come with side effects, addiction risks, and limited efficacy. As a result, there is growing interest in complementary therapies like music therapy, which has shown potential in reducing pain, anxiety, and stress while promoting emotional, cognitive, and physical well-being. This systematic review and meta-analysis aim to evaluate the effectiveness of music therapy as a non-pharmacological pain management strategy. Method This study conducted to assess the effectiveness of music therapy in pain management, using a comprehensive search strategy across multiple databases. Pain intensity was measured using validated scales, such as the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and the quality of the included studies was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. Data analysis was performed using a random-effects model, and heterogeneity, publication bias, and potential sources of variability were evaluated through sensitivity and subgroup analyses. Result This study found a significant reduction in pain severity among patients who received music therapy, with a Standard Mean Difference (SMD) of -2.18 (95% CI: -2.91, -1.44; p < 0.001), highlighting its effectiveness as an adjunctive treatment for pain management. Subgroup analysis revealed that studies conducted in Asia showed the largest benefit (SMD = -2.41; 95% CI: -3.66, -1.17; p < 0.001), while research on burn patients demonstrated an even greater reduction in pain (SMD = -3.66; 95% CI: -4.34, -2.99; p < 0.001). Conclusion This study indicates that music therapy may be associated with reductions in pain levels, indicating potentially higher effects among Asian populations and burn patients. However, substantial variability across studies limits the certainty of these findings. Future research should prioritize methodological rigor, standardization of music therapy interventions, and careful consideration of cultural and demographic factors to better clarify its role and applicability in diverse healthcare settings and pain management contexts
The relationship between training load and injury risk in taekwondo: a systematic review
No full textAbstract Background While training load is a recognized modifiable risk factor for injury in team sports, its impact in individual combat sports like taekwondo remains underexplored. This review aims to synthesize current evidence on the association between training load and injury risk in taekwondo athletes. Methods Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines, a comprehensive search of the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, EBSCOhost, and Embase databases was conducted up to May 1st, 2025. Eligible studies were required to report injury risk in taekwondo athletes in relation to internal or external training load. The injury risk metrics included incidence rate ratio, odds ratio, injury incident ratio, and relative risk. Study quality was assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Results Twenty-one studies were included in the final analysis. Among these, 18 studies explored the relationship between external load and injury risk, while 3 studies examined the relationship between internal load and injury risk. Strong evidence supports an association between rapid weight loss (RWL) and injury risk in taekwondo athletes. Moderate evidence links external load, especially competition exposure, training frequency, and duration, to injury risk. Limited evidence links technical execution, sleep quality, and neuromuscular function to injury risk. Conclusion Due to the limited number of high quality studies, further prospective research is needed to confirm the current evidence linking training load to injury risk in taekwondo athletes. RWL shows the most consistent evidence of association with injury risk, underscoring the importance of structured weight management strategies. In addition, moderate evidence supports associations between competition exposure, training frequency/duration and injury risk, while technical execution, neuromuscular function, and sleep quality are supported only by limited evidence. PROSPERO registration number CRD4202460929
Micro-pacing and performance determinants in skiathlon: linking speed profiles, sub-technique selection, and cycle characteristics
No full textAbstract Purpose Performance analyses in cross-country skiing often focus on lap or terrain-level splits. However, few studies have explored micro-pacing strategies—particularly in Skiathlon, an Olympic event requiring athletes to complete both classical and freestyle techniques on the same course. Methods Thirteen national-level male skiers were tracked during an International Ski Federation-certified Skiathlon using GNSS and trunk-mounted sensors. Instantaneous speed profiles were analysed using one-dimensional statistical parametric mapping (SPM) to identify “race-critical clusters”: contiguous intervals where speed significantly predicted section time (α = 0.05) across all eight laps (four classical, four freestyle). Results Freestyle laps were 4% faster than classical, with greater terrain-specific speed differences and pacing variability in classical, especially downhills. Seven race-critical clusters were identified: two uphill, four downhill, and one flat. These accounted for 11.3 s (classic) and 10.9 s (freestyle) of the time gap between the fast and slow group. In these segments, faster skiers used higher-gear sub-techniques and exhibited longer cycle lengths and/or higher frequencies (p < 0.05). Conclusions Within race-critical clusters, the faster skiers gained substantial time advantages. Secondary analyses showed clear differences in sub-technique selection and kinematic profiles, suggesting that technical execution plays a critical role in these performance gains. Athletes and coaches may consider integrating GNSS-based tracking, SPM, and wearable-derived technique analysis into race evaluation to move beyond traditional split times and focus training on the most decisive segments of the course
How many trials are enough? Familiarization requirements in the Loughborough Soccer Passing Test
No full textAbstract Background The Loughborough Soccer Passing Test (LSPT) has proven to be a valid and reliable method for assessing soccer skill performance. However, there are various preparation protocols that exist for the LSPT. The aim of this study is to determine how many trials are required to gather reliable data during LSPT familiarisation. Methods 81 subelite male youths (12.70 ± 2.67 years; 158.32 ± 17.21 cm; 49.01 ± 14.19 kg) and 17 professional female soccer players (21.47 ± 2.37 years; 164.70 ± 5.00 cm; 57.11 ± 4.27 kg) participated in the study. Following a brief explanation, the participants underwent five repetitions of the LSPT, after which differences between trials were analysed using mixed ANOVA for original time, penalty time, and performance time of LSPT. Adjusted residual values and the Smallest Worthwhile Change (SWC) approach were employed to assess the distributions across repetitions and the practical significance of the observed differences. Results Mixed-repeated measures ANOVA showed that Trial 1 significantly underperformed relative to the subsequent four trials across all LSPT values (p < .05). There were no statistical differences observed within other trials. Considerable improvement was noted solely between the first trials and subsequent attempts; exceeding the smallest worthwhile change (SWC) thresholds of 1.38 s, 2.29 s, and 3.36 s for original time, penalty time, and total performance time, respectively. Performance time enhanced by 5% between first two trials, however strength of acquisitions remain inconsistent and negligible subsequent trials. Conclusion A single trial primarily diminishes the learning effect in LSPT preparation, especially in young sub-elite athletes and professional female athletes. In particular, in situations where samples are large or testing time is limited, implementing a single familiarisation trial seems a practical and efficient option. At the same time, given the higher variability of penalty time, specialists can consider adapting the number of trials depending on the testing objectives. This finding has applicative value for coaches, physical trainers and researchers, as it allows them to reduce the time and resources required for the testing protocol without compromising the validity and reproducibility of the results
Data sources:
Access Repository Dashboard
Do you manage Directory of Open Access Journals? Access insider analytics, issue reports and manage access to outputs from your repository in the CORE Repository Dashboard!