bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nephrogenic Diabetes Insipidus Affecting Three Males in Two Generations—Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Stroescu Ramona , Chiriţă-Emandi Adela , Puiu Maria , Chisavu Flavia , Steflea Ruxandra , Doroş Gabriela , Gafencu Mihai
Published: February 2025

Background: Nephrogenic diabetes insipidus (NDI) is defined as the inability of the kidney to concentrate urine owing to the insensitivity of the distal nephron to the antidiuretic hormone, arginine vasopressin. NDI is a heterogeneous rare autosomal dominant or X-linked disease. Objective: We present a family with nephrogenic diabetes affecting three males in two generations. Methods: We report two boys with NDI: a 4-month-old infant who was treated for fever, vomiting, and failure to thrive, and his 10-year-old uncle (the mother’s brother), who was admitted concurrently for consuming 11 L of fluid per day. According to family history, the mother’s sibling passed away at the age of two from severe hypernatremic dehydration. Results: The infant’s clinical and laboratory evaluation revealed a 7.8 mL/kg/h urine output, hypernatremic hyperchloremic alkalosis, extremely low urine density (1002), and elevated copeptin level. In contrast, the uncle’s clinical and laboratory evaluation revealed marked polyuria, low urine density, and elevated copeptin, all of which were suggestive of diabetes insipidus. After starting hydrochlorothiazide treatment (2 mg/kg/body), the infant’s urine production reduced (2.85 mL/kg/h); however, severe hypokalemia and alkalosis followed. Spironolactone, an aldosterone antagonist, were added, with good therapeutic response. Hydrochlorothiazide was administered to the uncle, and his daily fluid intake decreased to 3–4 L. Given the family history, Sanger sequencing for the AVPR2 variant was performed on the boys and the infant’s mother. Analysis showed hemizygous likely pathogenic variant c.335G>A p. (Cys112Tyr) in the 2 boys and heterozygous (carrier) status of the mother. Within the same family, we observed phenotypic heterogeneity: one child died at the age of two, another lived well into ten years without therapy, and a four month-old baby could have had a poor outcome without specific treatment. Conclusions: NDI is a rare and possibly fatal genetic disorder with heterogeneous manifestations. In families with a history of NDI, molecular genetic testing is crucial for family planning.
Genome-Wide Identification and Analysis of the JAZ Gene Family in Artemisia argyi
Authors: Gong Zhanbin , Wu Xueshuang , Luo Yilin , Zhou Tianhong , Yang Zhenchao , Wu Yongjun
Published: February 2025

Artemisia argyi H. Lév. & Vaniot (A. argyi) is a perennial herb belonging to the Asteraceae family and is a medicinal plant widely used in traditional medicine. In the field of plant physiology, JAZ proteins play a central role in the jasmonic acid (JA) signaling pathway, significantly affecting plant growth and development as well as responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. This study aims to identify and analyze the JAZ gene family of A. argyi. Through a genome-wide analysis of A. argyi. 18 JAZ genes were identified and classified into three subfamilies, based on phylogenetic relationships. Additionally, for this study, we comprehensively analyzed the physical and chemical properties, gene structure, chromosomal locations, conserved domains, cis-acting elements, and evolutionary relationships of these genes. The tissue-specific expression patterns of JAZ genes were obtained from transcriptome data, revealing distinct expression profiles across different tissues in A. argyi. Finally, this research identified a candidate JAZ gene, AarJAZ18, which is involved in the development of glandular trichomes in the leaves of A. argyi. Subsequently, the relative expression levels of AarJAZ18 in different tissues were validated using quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR). In summary, this study provides a foundation for further investigation into the functions of A. argyi JAZ genes and offers valuable gene resources for breeding superior varieties and enhancing germplasm innovation.
A Rapid and Reliable Propidium Monoazide Polymerase Chain Reaction for Detecting Viable Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae
Authors: Luo Yi , Liao Wenfei , Li Yue , Chen Wen , Zhong Sen , Wu Cuiping , Yao Kaikai , Yang Rui , Ma Miaomiao , Gong Guoshu
Published: February 2025

Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) is responsible for causing kiwifruit canker disease. The detection of Psa is commonly carried out using normal PCR and culture-based isolation. However, normal PCR does not differentiate between live and dead cells, potentially resulting in the incorrect estimation of the amount of infectious substance in a sample. Such an incorrect estimation could result in unnecessary phytosanitary strategies and control measures. This study attempts to establish a specific assay for detecting only live Psa bacterial cells. To achieve this, a pair of strain-specific primers designed from HopZ3 effector were used, and the traditional PCR method was assessed using a nucleic acid-binding dye (propidium monoazide—PMA), establishing a PMA–PCR system and conditions for detecting live Psa in this study. Sensitivity tests showed a detection limit of 10 cfu/mL and 1 pg/μL. This method was also tested in diseased kiwifruit tissues and can be seen as a rapid and dependable replacement to PCR methods for detecting only those infective kiwifruit materials with viable Psa.
Patient-Specific Orthognathic Solutions: Expert Opinion on Guidelines and Workflow
Authors: Nastri Alf L. , Liau Isaac , Heo Jaewon , Schramm Alexander
Published: February 2025

This document outlines guidelines for the use of three-dimensional virtual surgical planning in orthognathic surgery, with relevance to data acquisition, clinical diagnosis, data workflow sequencing, and operative considerations. A detailed description regarding fundamental principles of orthognathic assessment and planning is beyond the scope of this paper.
Influence of Waste Catalyst Surface Characteristics on High-Temperature Performance and Adhesion Properties of Asphalt Mortar
Authors: Wang Zhimei , Gao Mengjie , Guo Peng , Chen Yan , Li Chuanqiang , Kong Lingyun
Published: February 2025

The incorporation of waste fluid catalytic cracking (FCC) catalysts (WFCs) into asphalt pavements represents an effective strategy for resource utilization. However, the influences of the composition of the waste catalyst and its surface characteristics on the performance of asphalt mortars are still unclear. Herein, five WFCs were selected as powder filler to replace partial mineral powder (MP) to prepare five asphalt mortars. The diffusion behaviors of asphalt binder on the components of WFCs were investigated based upon molecular dynamic simulation, as was the interfacial energy between them. The adhesion work values between asphalt and WFCs were evaluated based upon the surface free energy theory. A dynamic shear rheology test and multiple stress creep recovery test on the WFC asphalt mortar were also conducted. Furthermore, the gray correlation analysis (GCA) method was employed to analyze the correlation between the diffusion coefficient and interfacial energy with the performance of WFC asphalt mortar. The results showed that the asphalt exhibited a low diffusion coefficient and high interfacial energy with the alkaline components of WFCs. The adhesion work values between asphalt and WFCs are higher than those with MP. The addition of WFCs can enhance the anti-rutting property of asphalt mortar significantly. Among the five WFCs, 2# exhibited the best improvement effect on the anti-permanent deformation ability of asphalt mortar, which may be due to its large specific surface area and moderate pore width. The GCA results suggest that the diffusion coefficient and interfacial energy strongly correlated with the performance of asphalt mortar, with an order of adhesion > permanent deformation resistance > rutting resistance. This study provides both theoretical and experimental support for the application of WFCs in asphalt materials.
Ultrathin Biomaterial Coating for Flame-Retardant Medical Paper
Authors: Sun Zhihao , Liu Xinlong , Li Jingxian , Xu Xiaohong , Pan Xuhai , Yan Chuanyong
Published: February 2025

Paper has the multiple advantages of being breathable, sustainable, environmentally friendly, and non-toxic for medical care. However, the flammability stemming from the raw materials of paper has limited its use in medical heat therapy. In this paper, a composite flame-retardant coating is assembled layer by layer on a medical paper surface using medically safe natural biomaterials with starch and adenosine triphosphate as internal layers, and starch and phytic acid as external layers. With the layer-by-layer assembly using the ultrathin adsorption method, the microscopic morphology and elemental mapping reveal that all the biomaterials are deposited uniformly and have completely capsulated the paper surface fiber. The flame-retardant coating shows less impact on medical paper appearance morphology and mechanical properties in medical usability. The coated medical paper exhibits significant flame-retardant performance, such that the limiting oxygen index increases from 19.70% to 25.40% where both internal and external layers reached 100 layers (BL), and relevant residual charring in the thermogravimetric test increases 17.00 wt% in a nitrogen atmosphere and 18.00 wt% in an air atmosphere at 800 °C. The peak and total heat release rates of 100 BL medical paper reduced by approximately 91.10% and 53.10%, respectively, and the variations in both CO and CO2 production also suggest that flame-retardant coating could effectively inhibit combustion. Benefiting from the intumescent flame-retardant function of different biomaterial combinations and the multilayer design on different thermal response temperatures, the flame retardancy of medical paper significantly improved, and this advancement will make medical heat therapy safer and healthier for patients.
Surface Modification of Bioactive Glasses by Femtosecond and CO2 Lasers
Authors: González-Quintas Mario , Gago-Vidal Bruno , Calvo-García Erik , Sajjad Hamza , Riveiro Antonio , Comesaña Rafael , Pou Juan
Published: February 2025

This study explores the potential of laser surface modification (LSM) to enhance the biological properties of melt-derived bioactive glasses, specifically 45S5 and ICIE16, which are key in medical implants due to their bone-regenerating capabilities. Despite their bioactivity, these materials have limitations in cellular adhesion due to their smooth surfaces. LSM enables the creation of precise surface patterns that could improve interactions with biological environments. This study involved surface texturing bioactive glass (BG) samples using CO2 and femtosecond (fs) laser systems, modifying the laser average power, scanning speed, line spacing, and number of passes. Characterization methods included optical and stereoscopic microscopy, profilometry, and solubility tests in Tris-HCl buffer to evaluate surface roughness evolution, morphology, and bioactive behavior. The findings demonstrated significant modifications in surface properties post-texturing. The CO2 laser-treated surfaces preserve the increased roughness values after 75 days of immersion in Tris-HCl buffer for both 45S5 and ICIE16 melt-quenched bioactive glasses, showing a potential long-term osteoconductivity enhancement. On the contrary, the femtosecond laser-treated surfaces revealed a preferential apatite precipitation ability at the pattern grooves. Femtosecond laser modification stands as a suitable technique to provide preferential osteoconductivity characteristics when conducted on the surface of bioactive glass with moderate reactivity, such as ICIE16 bioactive glass.
Implementation of a Multi-Disciplinary Geriatric Oncology Clinic in Toronto, Canada
Authors: Menjak Ines B. , Campos Khloe , Pasetka Mark , Budden Arlene , Curle Elaine , Gibson Leslie , Szumacher Ewa , Mehta Rajin
Published: February 2025

Older adults with cancer tend to face more complex health needs than their younger counterparts. Patients > 65 years of age are recommended for comprehensive geriatric assessment (CGA) to capture and address age-related vulnerabilities. Access to geriatrics services is limited, and our baseline audit of geriatric referrals in 2019 from the cancer program revealed that only 30% of patients referred received a CGA. The aim of this study was to assess the implementation of a geriatric oncology (GO) clinic that employs CGA and determine patient outcomes. We conducted a retrospective cohort study at a single institution. Data collection included baseline characteristics, GO clinic findings and characteristics, recommendations/referrals, and emergency room (ER) visits/hospitalizations within 6 months of CGA. Descriptive statistics were used for analysis. A total of 100 patients were included, with a median (range) age of 80 (63–97) years; 70% were female, and the most common cancer type was breast (31%). Through the GO clinic, patients were seen in a timely manner, with a median of 3 weeks, compared to our historical baseline of 11 weeks. Cognitive decline (32%) and pre-treatment CGA (22%) were the most common reasons for referral, and the most common new diagnosis was cognitive impairment (65%). For pre-treatment CGA, 16 (48%) patients were deemed suitable for treatment and 10 (30%) were recommended for modified treatment; 34 (94%) referring physicians followed the recommendation. In addition, most (68%) patients received an allied health referral. One third of patients visited the ER and 30 (30%) patients were hospitalized. Overall, the GO clinic resulted in greater access to CGA in a timely manner, enhanced access to allied health, and assisted in treatment decision-making.
Causative Genes of Homologous Recombination Deficiency (HRD)-Related Breast Cancer and Specific Strategies at Present
Authors: Nakamura Seigo , Kojima Yasuyuki , Takeuchi Sayoko
Published: February 2025

Recently, homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) has become a new target for hereditary cancers. Molecular-based approaches for hereditary cancers in the clinical setting have been reviewed. In particular, the efficacy of the PARP inhibitor has been considered by several clinical trials for various kinds of hereditary cancers. This indicates that the PARP inhibitor can be effective for any kind of BRCA mutated cancers, regardless of the organ-specific cancer. Homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) has become a new target for hereditary cancers, indicating the necessity to confirm the status of HRD-related genes. ARID1A, ATM, ATRX, PALB2, BARD1, RAD51C and CHEK2 are known as HRD-related genes for which simultaneous examination as part of panel testing is more suitable. Both surgical and medical oncologists should learn the basis of genetics including HRD. An understanding of the basic mechanism of homologous repair recombination (HRR) in BRCA-related breast cancer is mandatory for all surgical or medical oncologists because PARP inhibitors may be effective for these cancers and a specific strategy of screening for non-cancers exists. The clinical behavior of each gene should be clarified based on a large-scale database in the future, or, in other words, on real-world data. Firstly, HRD-related genes should be examined when the hereditary nature of a cancer is placed in doubt after an examination of the relevant family history. Alternatively, HRD score examination is a solution by which to identify HRD-related genes at the first step. If lifetime risk is estimated at over 20%, an annual breast MRI is necessary for high-risk screening. However, there are limited data to show its benefit compared with BRCA. Therefore, a large-scale database, including clinical information and a long-term follow-up should be established, after which a periodical assessment is mandatory. The clinical behavior of each gene should be clarified based on a large-scale database, or, in other words, real-world data.
How Ancient Trees and Botanical Indicators Evidence Both Change and Continuity
Authors: Rotherham Ian D.
Published: February 2025

Knowledge of ancient trees and tree-forms helps inform understanding of landscape continuity and change. Information analysis of tree-form and growth rates may be combined with precise aging through dendro-chronology and carbon dating. Until recently, much of the information has been neglected, and indeed, there was an absence of accepted methodologies. Assessments of both coppice trees and pollards, for example, now suggest that trees achieve great age (for example, 500 years+ to 1500 years or more). These trees reflect both natural processes and human management. Examined within a robust conceptual and analytical framework, these trees generate insight into landscape evolution over centuries. Tree analysis combined with archival sources and site archaeological information, including mapping of ‘botanical indicator species’, soils, and other sediments, generate reliable timelines of human–environment interactions. Drawing together diverse approaches and insights into landscape evolution helps the formulation of new concepts of historical ecology and environmental history. Importantly, such emerging paradigms trigger new ways to demonstrate how understanding past landscape evolution both informs knowledge of contemporary ecologies and may guide future site planning. However, there is a rider to these observations since case studies in Great Britain highlight the vulnerability of such historic landscapes and show how they are being rapidly erased from the countryside.
Genetic Susceptibility of Type 2 Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Ercegović Vladimir , Džimbeg Monika , Gelemanović Andrea
Published: February 2025

Type 2 diabetes (T2D) and metabolic syndrome (MetS) represent complex, multifactorial conditions that pose significant challenges to public health and healthcare costs worldwide. These two conditions share common risk factors such as obesity, dyslipidemia, and hypertension and, as a consequence, are frequently jointly diagnosed in an individual. More specifically, it is estimated that around 85% of T2D patients also have MetS, while patients diagnosed with MetS are five times as likely to develop T2D. While lifestyle and environmental factors, such as poor diet and physical inactivity, play a crucial role, genetic susceptibility also has a substantial influence on the overall risk. Recent advancements in genome-wide association studies (GWAS) have had a major impact on identifying numerous genetic loci associated with these conditions. This narrative review summarizes key findings from T2D and MetS genome-wide association studies, highlighting key genetic loci and pathways and their clinical implications. The objective of this review is to provide a comprehensive understanding of the known genetic underpinnings of T2D and MetS to inform future research and open potential therapeutic and preventive strategies.
Can Blood Flow Restriction Be the Key to Reducing Quadriceps Weakness in the Early and Mid-Phases After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction with a Hamstring Graft? A Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Moiroux--Sahraoui Ayrton , Mazeas Jean , Blossier Marine , Douryang Maurice , Kakavas Georges , Hewett Timothy E. , Forelli Florian
Published: February 2025

Background: Injury to the anterior cruciate ligament is one of the most common knee injuries. Following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, strength deficits and reduced quadriceps and hamstring muscle mass are common. Traditional strengthening protocols recommend the use of heavy loads. However, following surgery, heavy-load exercises are contraindicated to protect the joint and graft. Blood flow restriction resistance training is an alternative that optimizes muscle recovery. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of blood flow restriction resistance training on muscle mass and strength after ACLR. Methods: The Pubmed, Cochrane Library, and PEDro databases were used to constitute the corpus of this systematic review. The methodological quality of the studies was assessed with the Cochrane Collaboration’s analysis grid. Results: Thirty-four articles were identified in the initial search, and five randomized controlled trials were included in this review. Not all studies reported significant results regarding strength and muscle mass. Two of these studies observed a significant improvement in strength associated with blood flow restriction resistance training compared with the control group. A significant increase in muscle mass was observed in one study. Conclusions: The blood flow restriction resistance training method shows superior efficacy to training without occlusion, yet this device has not been shown to be more effective than heavy-load resistance training in terms of muscular strength and muscle mass. Blood flow restriction resistance training shows superior efficacy in both these variables when used with low loads. However, there are still few random controlled trials on this subject, and this review presents their limitations and biases. Future research is needed on guidelines for the application of blood flow restriction resistance training in clinical populations.
R Version of the Kedem–Katchalsky–Peusner Equations for Liquid Interface Potentials in a Membrane System
Authors: Ślęzak Andrzej , Grzegorczyn Sławomir M.
Published: February 2025

Peusner’s network thermodynamics (PNT) is an important way of describing processes in nonequilibrium thermodynamics. PNT allows energy transport and conversion processes in membrane systems to be described. This conversion concerns internal energy transformation into free and dissipated energies linked with the membrane transport of solutes. A transformation of the Kedem–Katchalsky (K-K) equations into the R variant of Kedem–Katchalsky–Peusner (K-K-P) equations was developed for the transport of binary electrolytic solutions through a membrane. The procedure was verified for a system in which a membrane Ultra Flo 145 Dialyser separated aqueous NaCl solutions. Peusner coefficients were calculated by the transformation of the K-K coefficients. Next, the coupling coefficients of the membrane processes and energy fluxes for electrolyte solutions transported through the membrane were calculated based on the Peusner coefficients. The efficiency of energy conversion in the membrane transport processes was estimated, and this coefficient increased nonlinearly with the increase in the solute concentration in the membrane. In addition, the energy fluxes as functions of ionic current density for constant solute fluxes were also investigated for membrane transport processes in the Ultra Flo 145 Dialyser membrane.
Fault Diagnosis of Semi-Supervised Electromechanical Transmission Systems Under Imbalanced Unlabeled Sample Class Information Screening
Authors: Wang Chaoge , Jia Pengpeng , Tian Xinyu , Tang Xiaojing , Hu Xiong , Li Hongkun
Published: February 2025

In the health monitoring of electromechanical transmission systems, the collected state data typically consist of only a minimal amount of labeled data, with a vast majority remaining unlabeled. Consequently, deep learning-based diagnostic models encounter the challenge of scarcity in labeled data and abundance in unlabeled data. Traditional semi-supervised deep learning methods based on pseudo-label self-training, while alleviating the issue of labeled data scarcity to some extent, neglect the reliability of pseudo-label information, the accuracy of feature extraction from unlabeled data, and the imbalance in sample selection. To address these issues, this paper proposes a novel semi-supervised fault diagnosis method under imbalanced unlabeled sample class information screening. Firstly, an information screening mechanism for unlabeled data based on active learning is established. This mechanism discriminates based on the variability of intrinsic feature information in fault samples, accurately screening out unlabeled samples located near decision boundaries that are difficult to separate clearly. Then, combining the maximum membership degree of these unlabeled data in the classification space of the supervised model and interacting with the active learning expert system, label information is assigned to the screened unlabeled data. Secondly, a cost-sensitive function driven by data imbalance is constructed to address the class imbalance problem in unlabeled sample screening, adaptively adjusting the weights of different class samples during model training to guide the training of the supervised model. Ultimately, through dynamic optimization of the supervised model and the feature extraction capability of unlabeled samples, the recognition ability of the diagnostic model for unlabeled samples is significantly enhanced. Validation through two datasets, encompassing a total of 12 experimental scenarios, demonstrates that in scenarios with only a small amount of labeled data, the proposed method achieves a diagnostic accuracy increment exceeding 10% compared to existing typical methods, fully validating the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method in practical applications.
Early Detection, Diagnosis, Prevention, and Treatment of Infection to Avoid Sepsis and Septic Shock in Severely Burned Patients: A Narrative Review
Authors: Honoré Patrick M. , Blackman Sydney , Perriens Emily , de Schoutheete Jean-Charles , Jennes Serge
Published: February 2025

The early detection, diagnosis, anticipation, and therapy of infections to prevent sepsis and septic shock remain significant challenges in cases of grave burns. This narrative review explores various tools for early infection detection, including emerging biomarkers, the American Burn Association’s clinical criteria, and traditional blood parameters. A comparative study of the American Burn Association, Mann-Salinas, and Sepsis-3 criteria highlights the superior early detection capabilities of the Sepsis-3 criteria. However, the authors recommend that sepsis should be prospectively evaluated, identified, and classified by the intensive care group, rather than by relying solely on retrospective items, though the latter may still be necessary in certain cases. Advances in biomarker identification, including polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and gene expression (mRNA) profiling, offer diagnostic advantages over current methods, enabling early detection within 4 to 6 h of intensive care unit admission. Mass spectrometry also shows promise for the rapid determination of bacteria, yeast, and fungi based on bacteria protein profiles. Source control remains crucial, and the use of antibacterial topical agents has significantly improved the survival rates of severely burned patients. However, antibiotic selection must be made judiciously to avoid resistance. Despite these advancements, significant progress is still needed to improve the rapid identification, actual presence, prevention, and therapy of infections to reduce the incidence of sepsis and septic shock in this patient subgroup.
The Impact of COVID-19 on Global Stock Markets: Comparative Insights from Developed, Developing, and Regionally Integrated Markets
Authors: Zonon Babatounde Ifred Paterne , Bouraima Mouhamed Bayane , Chen Chuang , Dumor Koffi
Published: February 2025

This study examines the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on global stock markets by comparing developed and developing economies, while highlighting regional differences. Using dynamic panel regression models, this study explores the role of pandemic-related variables, fiscal policies, and investor sentiment in shaping market performance. Developed markets, although highly sensitive to infections, benefited from robust fiscal interventions and institutional resilience. Developing markets face greater volatility owing to stringent measures, structural vulnerabilities, and limited fiscal capacities. Regionally, Europe demonstrated resilience through coordinated policies, whereas the Americas experienced significant volatility from fragmented responses. Africa and parts of Asia encountered fewer initial shocks but struggled with prolonged recovery due to limited financial and institutional resources. The findings underscore the importance of economic integration, coordinated fiscal and monetary policies, and investor sentiment management to stabilize markets during crises. These insights guide policymakers in enhancing resilience and fostering sustainable economic growth amid future global disruptions.
High-Resistance Grounding Fault Location in High-Voltage Direct Current Transmission Systems Based on Deep Residual Shrinkage Network
Authors: Huang Ping , Huang Junlin , Huang Shengquan , Yang Guoting , Wu Zhipeng
Published: February 2025

Due to the precision limitations of traditional fault location methods in identifying grounding faults in High-Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) transmission systems and considering the high occurrence probability of high-resistance grounding faults in practical engineering scenarios coupled with the sampling accuracy constraints of actual equipment, this article introduces a novel approach for high-resistance grounding fault location in HVDC transmission lines. This method integrates Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) and Deep Residual Shrinkage Network (DRSN). Initially, VMD is employed to decompose double-ended high-resistance grounding fault signals, extracting the corresponding Intrinsic Mode Functions (IMF). These IMF signals are then preprocessed to construct the input data for the DRSN model. Upon training, the model outputs the precise fault location. To validate the effectiveness of the proposed method, a ±800 kV bipolar HVDC transmission system model is established using PSCAD/EMTDC version 4.6.2 software for simulating high-resistance grounding faults. The sampling accuracy of the model’s output signals is set to 10 kHz, aligning closely with actual engineering equipment specifications. Comprehensive simulation experiments and anti-interference analyses are conducted on the DRSN model. The results demonstrate that the fault location method based on the DRSN exhibits high accuracy in locating high-resistance grounding faults, with a maximum error of less than 1.5 km, even when considering factors such as engineering sampling frequency, fault types, and signal noise.
Detection of Cyclic Variation in Heart Rate (CVHR) During Sleep Using a Ring-Type Silicon Sensor and Evaluation of Intra-Weekly Variability
Authors: Yuda Emi , Edamatsu Hiroyuki , Hosomi Kenji , Hayano Junichiro
Published: February 2025

Patients with sleep apnea syndrome (SAS) have a risk of stroke that is more than three times higher than that of healthy individuals. Early detection and appropriate treatment are crucial for preventing serious complications, and detecting cyclic variation in heart rate (CVHR) plays a key role in early diagnosis. This study investigated the feasibility of detecting CVHR during sleep using a wearable, comfortable device and evaluated the ability to assess weekly fluctuations. Heart rate, blood oxygen saturation, and bio-acceleration were measured for seven consecutive nights in eight healthy subjects (45.7 ± 10.1 years old). The CVHR values obtained using a ring-type sensor were compared to those derived from the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI) measured with a Holter ECG. The results revealed that CVHR values measured with the ring-type sensor were higher than those measured with the Holter monitor. Although correction is required, the ring-type sensor successfully detected intra-weekly fluctuations. These findings suggest that a ring-type sensor could be a practical tool for monitoring CVHR and identifying weekly trends in a comfortable, non-invasive manner.
Knowledge Graph-Based Multi-Objective Recommendation for a 6G Air Interface: A Digital Twin Empowered Approach
Authors: Li Yuan , Wang Xinyao , Zheng Zhong , Zeng Ming , Fei Zesong
Published: February 2025

In future sixth-generation (6G) communication systems, it is foreseen that complex communication scenarios and critical performance requirements will necessitate more flexible air interface configurations. Traditional air interface adaptation will no longer be applicable to 6G due to issues such as high computational complexity, sub-optimal trade-offs among multi-objective performance metrics, outdated configurations due to fast-varying channels, etc. In this paper, the relevant user behaviors, communication environment, and system are virtualized via the digital twinning technique. Then, a knowledge graph-based multi-objective recommendation framework is proposed to configure the digital twinning air interface to adapt to channel conditions, while balancing various service requirements. First, the knowledge graph is applied to reveal complex dependencies between the air interface and the service requirements, and more importantly, to reconcile possibly contradictory performance targets. Furthermore, the air interface configuration, empowered by the digital twin technique, is able to exploit predicted prior knowledge about user behavior and the channel characteristics, thus improving the utilization efficiency of wireless resources promptly. Moreover, the digital twin technique allows the candidate air interfaces to be virtually verified and compared with little effort. Finally, two case studies are presented to demonstrate the potential of the knowledge graph-based recommendation method for the digital twinning air interface.
A Study on the Dissolution Characteristics of Salt Rock Using an Extended Rapid Cavity Creation Device
Authors: Zha Chunqing , Pang Ruihao , Wang Wei , Liu Gonghui
Published: February 2025

The efficiency and safety of salt cavern gas storage are critically dependent on the construction speed and structural integrity of the cavern. To tackle these issues, this paper presents a novel Extended Rapid Cavity Creation Device that employs water jet technology to effectively reduce the construction time and enhance control over the cavity structure. A simulation analysis of the device’s external flow field was conducted using FLUENT software. An experimental system was developed to investigate the effects of nozzle inclination and rotation speed on the dissolution of salt rock samples. The simulation and experimental results indicate that the intensity and shape of turbulence have a significant impact on the formation of the internal cavity within the salt rock. Specifically, a 45° nozzle inclination generates a conical turbulent flow that significantly enhances the mass transfer efficiency. As the rotation speed increases, the intensity and range of turbulence in the external flow field gradually extend towards the centre of the salt cavern cavity. This turbulence promotes the dissolution of salt rock, significantly reducing the ‘step’ structure at the bottom of the cavity. This study provides a valuable foundation for the further optimization of device design and a deeper understanding of the dissolution mechanism.
Power Coefficient for Large Wind Turbines Considering Wind Gradient Along Height
Authors: Biswas Saroj , Chen Jim Shih-Jiun
Published: February 2025

The Betz constant is the well-known aerodynamic limit of the maximum power which can be extracted from wind using wind turbine technologies, under the assumption that the wind speed is uniform across a blade disk. However, this condition may not hold for large wind turbines, since the wind speed may not be constant along their height; rather, it may vary with the location due to surface friction from tall buildings and trees, the topography of the Earth’s surface, and radiative heating and cooling in a 24 h cycle. This paper derives a new power coefficient for large wind turbines based on the power law exponent model of the wind gradient and height. The proposed power coefficient is a function of the size of the rotor disk and the Hellmann exponent, which describes the wind gradient based on wind stability at various locations, and it approaches the same value as the Betz limit for wind turbines with small rotor disks. It is shown that for large offshore wind turbines, the power coefficient was about 1.27% smaller than that predicted by the Betz limit, whereas for onshore turbines in human-inhabited areas with stable air, the power coefficient was about 8.7% larger. Our results are significant in two ways. First, we achieve generalization of the well-known Betz limit through elimination of the assumption of a constant wind speed across the blade disk, which does not hold for large wind turbines. Second, since the power coefficient depends on the location and air stability, this study offers guidelines for wind power companies regarding site selection for the installation of new wind turbines, potentially achieving greater energy efficiency than that predicted by the Betz limit.
Investigation of a Micro Two-Phase Flux-Switching Motor
Authors: Pang Da-Chen , Huang Hsuan-Chi , Song Bo-Xian , Bui Gia-Thinh
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the world’s smallest two-phase flux-switching motor (FSM), featuring a four-pole stator and a two-pole rotor with a non-uniform air gap design. The FSM offers several advantages, including a compact size, simple structure, and ease of manufacturing, making it suitable for future micromachine applications. The motor has an outer stator diameter of 8 mm, an outer rotor diameter of 4 mm, and a stack length of 5 mm. This research employs a topological method and JMAG-Designer Ver.22.0 electromagnetic analysis software to enhance the rotor design for high output torque and low torque ripple. The final design achieves an average torque of 174 μN-m and a torque ripple of 40%, which is lower than those of any two-phase motor reported in the literature. The two-phase FSM has been fabricated, assembled, and tested to demonstrate its feasibility.
Insights into Microbial Community and Its Enzymatic Profiles in Commercial Dry-Aged Beef
Authors: Liu Yinchu , Gao Xiaoguang , Zang Mingwu , Sun Baozhong , Zhang Songshan , Xie Peng , Liu Xiaochang
Published: February 2025

Dry-aged beef has gained interest worldwide in recent years due to its improved sensory attributes. This enhancement is thought to be partially driven by microbial activities, particularly lipolysis and proteolysis. In this study, dry-aged beef manufactured by seven commercial producers in China was analyzed. The pH value and total volatile base nitrogen value of dry-aged beef were determined. High-throughput amplicon sequencing of full-length 16S rRNA genes and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions was used to analyze the microbial community. A total of 207 proteolytic and lipolytic isolates were identified by sequencing 16S rRNA genes for bacteria and sequencing the D1/D2 region of 28S rRNA genes and the ITS region for fungi. The results revealed that the crust harbored greater numbers of bacteria and fungi than the interior. The bacterial community was dominated by Pseudomonas species, which were core members in both the crust and interior, while Brochothrix thermosphacta was identified as a core bacterium exclusively in the crust. The fungal community primarily constituted Candida sake, Kurtzmaniella species, and members of the phylum Chytridiomycota. Proteolytic and lipolytic isolates were mainly identified as Pseudomonas sp., B. thermosphacta, Carnobacterium maltaromaticum, Candida zeylanoides (teleomorph: Kurtzmaniella zeylanoides), C. sake, and Debaryomyces hansenii. Two strains of C. zeylanoides and C. sake exhibiting high proteolytic and lipolytic activities effectively hydrolyzed beef fat, myofibrillar protein, and sarcoplasmic protein. This study characterized the main microorganisms and their enzymatic functions associated with dry-aged beef, highlighting the need to explore their contributions to the sensory attributes of dry-aged beef.
A Comprehensive Investigation of Lipid Profile During the Solid-State Fermentation of Rice by Monascus purpureus
Authors: Lan Lan , Cao Yimin , Yuan Jiajia , Feng Rui , Pan Huiqin , Mao Xiuhong , Ji Shen , Hu Qing , Zhou Heng
Published: February 2025

Red yeast rice is a nutraceutical fermented product used worldwide for the symptomatic relief of dyslipidemia and cardiovascular disease. However, the fermentation-induced lipid transformation from rice to red yeast rice remains unclear. Herein, an ultra-high performance liquid chromatography coupled with hybrid quadrupole-orbitrap mass spectrometry method was developed for the comprehensive lipid analysis during fermentation. A total of 246 lipids fall in 21 subclasses were annotated in rice and red yeast rice, including 37 lysophospholipids, 14 phospholipids, 29 diglycerides, 114 triglycerides and fatty acid (15 species), ceramide (12 species), hexosylceramide (3 species), sitosterol ester (2 species), monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (2 species), digalactosyldiacylglycerol (2 species), monogalactosylmonoacylglycerol (8 species), digalactosylmonoacylglycerol (5 species), coenzyme Q (1 species), acyl hexosyl campesterol ester (1 species), and acylcarnitine (1 species). Results showed that lipid profiles changed, and new lipid species emerged. Notably, 18 medium- and long-chain triacylglycerols and triacylglycerols with short-chains were tentatively identified. These triacylglycerols also show the effects of body fat accumulation reduction, and hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic activities. Furthermore, lipid species that were profoundly changed were quantified, and the dynamic changes were investigated. This study clarified the molecular species and compositional changes in fermented rice from lipid aspect.
Amidated and Aminated PMSSO-Hydrogels as a Promising Enzyme-Sensitive Vehicle for Antianemic Drugs
Authors: Orlova Polina , Meshkov Ivan , Sharikov Sergei , Frolov Vsevolod , Skuredina Anna , Markov Pavel , Bobyleva Zoya , Lakienko Grigorii , Latipov Egor , Kolmogorov Ilya , Vasiliev Sergey , Kalinina Alexandra , Muzafarov Aziz , Le-Deygen Irina
Published: February 2025

In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of aminated poly(methyl silsesquioxane)-based hydrogels ((AP/MS)SO-hydrogels) as potential enzyme-sensitive vehicles for antianemic drugs. The hydrogels were synthesized via sol–gel polymerization and functionalized with amine groups. Characterization techniques included Congo red assay, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area analysis, scanning electron microscopy, elemental analysis, 13C NMR, 29Si NMR, and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy and microscopy of hydrogels. The sorption of ferric chloride and ferrous D-gluconate, as well as complexes of ferrous D-gluconate with HPCD, was evaluated. Crosslinking of the gel with bifunctional agents was performed to create a new amide enzyme-sensitive bond, followed by infrared characterization of the crosslinked product. Trypsin-mediated degradation studies demonstrated the sensitivity of the hydrogel to enzymatic cleavage under model conditions. Iron release experiments in gastric and intestine-simulating media confirmed prolonged release. Overall, our findings suggest that aminated PMSSO-hydrogels hold promise as versatile and biocompatible carriers for targeted delivery of antianemic agents, warranting further exploration in preclinical and clinical applications.
Comparative Chloroplast Genomics and Codon Usage Bias Analysis in Hevea Genus
Authors: Yang Yang , Liu Xueyang , He Lixia , Li Zhenhua , Yuan Boxuan , Fang Fengyan , Wang Mei , Li Aifang , Liu Cheng , He Minmin , Hui Shugang , Wang Wenda , Wang Xuchu
Published: February 2025

Objectives: This study investigates the cpDNA sequences from six Hevea species, aiming to explore their genomic characteristics, gene content, and genetic relationships. The objectives include understanding the structure of these genomes, identifying potential gene rearrangements, and providing insights into genetic improvement and conservation strategies for the Hevea genus. Methods: cpDNA sequences from six Hevea species were sequenced and analyzed. Genome sizes, GC content, gene encoding potential, and structural integrity were assessed. Simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and codon usage were analyzed, with a focus on optimal codons and their frequency. Phylogenetic analysis was conducted to determine the genetic relationships within the Hevea genus. Results: The cpDNAs from the six species exhibited genome sizes ranging from 161,093 bp to 161,254 bp, with GC content between 35.72% and 35.75%. Each genome contained 91 to 92 protein-coding genes, with the infA gene consistently present. No significant gene rearrangements were detected, and SSR analysis revealed mono-repeats primarily composed of A/T bases. Codon usage analysis indicated that leucine is predominantly encoded by the UUA codon, and 31 optimal codons were identified, mainly ending in A or U. Phylogenetic analysis clarified the genetic relationships among the species. Conclusions: The study provides detailed insights into the cpDNA characteristics of Hevea species, highlighting stable genome structures, conserved genes, and specific patterns of codon usage. These findings are valuable for conservation efforts, genetic improvement strategies, and the sustainable use of Hevea germplasm.
Empowering Health Professionals with Digital Skills to Improve Patient Care and Daily Workflows
Authors: Ferreira Joao C. , Elvas Luis B. , Correia Ricardo , Mascarenhas Miguel
Published: February 2025

The increasing digitalisation of healthcare has created a pressing need for health professionals to develop robust digital skills. This paper explores the imperative of equipping health professionals with the necessary digital proficiency to enhance their daily workflows and improve patient care. The expanding use of digital technologies, including electronic health records, telehealth, and artificial intelligence, has transformed the healthcare landscape. However, the adoption of these technologies has been hindered by barriers, such as a lack of interoperability and hesitancy among healthcare providers. To address these challenges, this paper argues that digital skill development must be a core component of healthcare education and professional training. Medical schools and healthcare organisations must prioritise the integration of digital health curricula and continuous learning opportunities to ensure that the next generation of healthcare providers is well-equipped to navigate the digital healthcare ecosystem. Additionally, this paper highlights the importance of fostering a culture of digital innovation and collaboration within healthcare settings. By empowering health professionals to actively participate in the development and testing of new digital health applications, the industry can unlock the full potential of digital technologies to enhance daily workflows and improve patient outcomes.