bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Particular Aspects of Cardiac Rhythm Disorders in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Moraru Iuliana , Constantin Georgiana Bianca , Duca Oana-Monica , Năstase Iulia-Mariana , Mihailov Raul , Șerban Cristina , Guliciuc Mădălin
Published: January 2025

Background: Cardiac rhythm disorders in children and adolescents have a high incidence. In certain conditions, sudden death may occur. Materials and Methods: We conducted a prospective study including 199 patients divided into two subgroups: one subgroup of 80 practicing different sports and another one of 119 non-sportive, symptomatic patients. We studied all socio-demographic data, medical histories, and the elements revealed by the clinical and paraclinical examinations. Results: Only 39 (19.60%) participants did not practice any kind of sport; 46 participants had cases of sudden cardiac death in their families; 60.80% of children and adolescents were exposed to smoking; among the symptomatic group, symptoms like vertigo, chest pain, lipothymia, and palpitations predominated. Conclusions: A significant percentage of participants with heart rhythm disorders at risk for sudden death was identified. It is extremely important to identify and restrict them from intense physical exertion and to reassess them periodically in order to reduce the risk of sudden cardiac death.
Placenta Praevia with Abnormal Adhesion—A Retrospective Study
Authors: Șerbănescu Lucian , Brezeanu Dragoș , Grasa Cătălin Nicolae , Mirea Sebastian , Ionescu Paris , Rotar Vadym , Surdu Traian-Virgiliu , Costea Andreea Cristina
Published: January 2025

Background: Placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) refers to abnormal placental attachment, categorized into placenta accreta, increta, and percreta, with varying severity. The incidence of PAS has risen alongside the increasing rate of caesarean sections. PAS is a significant cause of maternal complications, including bleeding, hysterectomies of necessity and intestinal or urinary surgical complications, and of foetal complications, preterm birth or foetal anaemia. Early diagnosis is crucial for its management and for improving its outcomes. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study, conducted at the County Emergency Clinical Hospital “Saint Andrew the Apostle”, Constanța, analysed cases of placenta praevia and PAS from 2018 to 2022. Data were collected from observation sheets and operative protocols, involving 13,841 patients. Placenta praevia and PAS were diagnosed using ultrasound and MRI and confirmed by histopathology. Results: Among the 13,841 deliveries, 25 cases of placenta praevia (0.82% incidence) and 17 cases of PAS (0.57% incidence) were identified. Ultrasound demonstrated 88% sensitivity, and MRI 94% sensitivity for PAS detection. Of the 17 PAS cases, 11 were diagnosed as placenta accreta, 3 were diagnosed as placenta increta, and 3 as placenta percreta, with all percreta cases involving bladder invasion. Hysterectomy was the standard surgical treatment. Discussion: The risk factors for PAS included previous caesarean sections (94.1% of PAS cases), smoking, and uterine fibroids. The study confirmed the importance of early imaging and the involvement of a multidisciplinary team in managing PAS, particularly in complex cases with bladder involvement. Caesarean section followed by hysterectomy was the preferred surgical approach. Conclusions: Smoking, uterine scars, and uterine fibroids are significant risk factors for placenta praevia with pathological adhesion. Ultrasound and MRI are highly accurate in diagnosing PAS, with histopathology providing definitive confirmation. Multidisciplinary care is essential in managing complex cases, ensuring optimal maternal and foetal outcomes. The surgical treatment involves caesarean section and hysterectomy, with additional interventions for bladder invasion in percreta cases.
Artificial Intelligence and Li Ion Batteries: Basics and Breakthroughs in Electrolyte Materials Discovery
Authors: Alzamer Haneen , Jaafreh Russlan , Kim Jung-Gu , Hamad Kotiba
Published: January 2025

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), particularly in algorithms and computing power, have led to the widespread adoption of AI techniques in various scientific and engineering disciplines. Among these, materials science has seen a significant transformation due to the availability of vast datasets, through which AI techniques, such as machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL), can solve complex problems. One area where AI is proving to be highly impactful is in the design of high-performance Li-ion batteries (LIBs). The ability to accelerate the discovery of new materials with optimized structures using AI can potentially revolutionize the development of LIBs, which are important for energy storage and electric vehicle technologies. However, while there is growing interest in using AI to design LIBs, the application of AI to discover new electrolytic systems for LIBs needs more investigation. The gap in existing research lies in the lack of a comprehensive framework that integrates AI-driven techniques with the specific requirements for electrolyte development in LIBs. This research aims to fill this gap by reviewing the application of AI for discovering and designing new electrolytic systems for LIBs. In this study, we outlined the fundamental processes involved in applying AI to this domain, including data processing, feature engineering, model training, testing, and validation. We also discussed the quantitative evaluation of structure–property relationships in electrolytic systems, which is guided by AI methods. This work presents a novel approach to use AI for the accelerated discovery of LIB electrolytes, which has the potential to significantly enhance the performance and efficiency of next-generation battery technologies.
The Effect of Solution Treatment on the Microstructure and Properties of AlCuCrFe2NiTi0.25 High-Entropy Hardfacing Alloy
Authors: Huang Jingxuan , Su Yunhai
Published: January 2025

With the advancement of modern social science and technology, alloys composed solely of a single principal component are gradually unable to meet people’s needs. The concept of a new type of high-entropy alloy has been proposed. At present, high-entropy alloys are mostly prepared by vacuum arc furnace melting and casting methods. To improve this situation, this article uses plasma welding technology to prepare an AlCuCrFe2NiTi0.25 high-entropy alloy on a Q235 steel plate through multi-layer and multi-pass welding using plasma surfacing technology and adopts an appropriate solution treatment on this basis to obtain a higher-performance alloy. The conclusion drawn from different heat treatment processes is as follows: solution treatment was performed on an AlCuCrFe2Ni0.25 high-entropy alloy at a temperature of 1200 °C for 2 h, 3 h, and 4 h, respectively. After XRD phase analysis, it was found that the phase types of high-entropy alloys did not change after solution treatment. As the solution time increased, the diffraction peak intensity of the Laves phase gradually decreased. After 3 h of solid solution treatment, room temperature tensile tests were conducted to obtain the tensile strength and elongation of the AlCuCrFe2Ni0.25 high-entropy alloy at room temperature, which were 509 MPa and 23.8%, respectively, exhibiting the optimal comprehensive mechanical properties.
Cyanobiphenyl- and Cyanoterphenyl-Based Liquid Crystal Dimers (CBnCT): The Enantiotropic Twist-Bend Nematic Phase
Authors: Shimoura Yamato , Arakawa Yuki
Published: January 2025

We report the first homologous series of methylene-linked cyanobiphenyl- and cyanoterphenyl-based liquid crystal (LC) dimers (CBnCT). To induce the heliconical twist-bend nematic (NTB) phase through bent molecular shapes, the CBnCT homologs have an odd-numbered flexible alkylene spacer (n) ranging from 1 to 17. Polarized optical microscopy and differential scanning calorimetry are used to identify phases and analyze the phase-transition behavior. Except for n = 1, all the CBnCT homologs exhibit the conventional nematic (N) and NTB phases. The CBnCT dimers with n = 3 and 5 show a monotropic NTB phase, while those with n = 7, 9, 11, 13, 15, and 17 demonstrate an enantiotropic NTB phase below the conventional N phase temperature. The NTB phases of the CBnCT dimers (n = 7, 9, and 11) remain stable down to room temperature and vitrify without crystallization. Compared with cyanobiphenyl-based LC dimer homologs (CBnCB), the CBnCT dimers show significantly broader N and NTB phase temperature ranges with higher isotropic and NTB–N phase-transition temperatures. The NTB phase temperature ranges of CBnCT (n = 7, 9, 11, and 13) are over 100 °C. Additionally, more CBnCT homologs exhibit the enantiotropic NTB phase than the CBnCB ones. These enhancements result from increased π-conjugation and asymmetric molecular structures. Furthermore, CB9CT exhibits higher birefringence than CB9CB owing to its longer π-conjugated terphenyl moiety.
Effect of Interface Relief on the Occurrence of Cracks at the Contact Point of Laser-Direct-Energy-Deposited Copper Alloy and Nickel Base Superalloy
Authors: Khaimovich Alexander , Balyakin Andrey , Nosova Ekaterina , Kudryashova Maria , Smelov Vitaliy , Zemlyakov Evgeny , Kovchik Anton
Published: January 2025

The relevance of the study is related to the need to join dissimilar copper and nickel alloys by laser direct energy and material deposition (LDED). The purpose of research is studying the distribution of elements, structure, and properties of contact zone of nickel-based super alloy and CuCr1 bronze obtained by direct energy and material deposition with preliminary formation of relief of contact surface. For the purposes of research, samples were made from UNS C18200 copper alloy CuCr1 without relief, with a relief of 0.5 mm depth, and with a relief of 1 mm depth. The Ni50Cr33W4.5Mo2.8TiAlNb (EP648) alloy powder was deposited onto the bronze samples with a micro-relief. The deposition was produced by direct injection of energy and material. The influence of interphase interaction of CuCr-chromium carbide system on the possibility of initiation of a crack in the area of carbide secretions is not significant and does not exceed 3.1% according to CIC criterion from the background level for CuCr1 (CIC = 1.54% for CuCr1-Al4C3 interface and CIC = 3.1% for CuCr1-Cr23C6 interface). An X-ray analysis revealed the presence of tensile residual macro-stresses, arising from differences in thermal expansion coefficients in the CuCr1-EP648 interface area, which may be the main cause of crack formation. Cracks are generated and run along the grain boundaries, on which traces of excretion are visible. The contact surface in the CuCr1-EP648 interface area has no visible defects, which indicates the good adhesion of materials when applying an initial layer of EP648 by LDED. The presence of a 0.5-mm micro-relief on CuCr1 has a positive effect on the strength of the connection, as it increases the surface area of the contact CuCr1-EP648 and therefore reduces the contact stress of the breakout.
Assessment of the Variation in Faunistic Parameters of Mosquitoes (Culicidae: Diptera) Across Different Forest Gradients in the Tijuca National Park Area, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Authors: do Nascimento Nilton Henrique Fonseca , Leite Paulo José , Silva Júlia dos Santos , Gil-Santana Hélcio Reinaldo , Barbosa Roger Pimentel , de Mello Cecilia Ferreira , Alencar Jeronimo
Published: January 2025

The assessment of mosquito diversity in remnants of the Atlantic Forest, which are considered biodiversity hotspots, is crucial for studying patterns of behavior and adaptation, performing environmental monitoring, and public health. These studies provide valuable insights into the ecology and biology of these insects, contributing to a better understanding of forest ecosystems and the interactions among the species that inhabit them. The present study aimed to assess the variation in faunistic parameters of abundance, richness, diversity, and evenness along an environmental gradient. This gradient extends from the edge toward the interior of the fragment. The research tested the hypothesis that edge effects influence the distribution of mosquito species in the Tijuca National Park. Sampling was carried out from May 2022 to December 2023, occurring monthly over two consecutive days within the park area. Three different sampling points within the conservation unit were selected: sampling point 1, forest edge; sampling point 2, 35 m from the edge; and sampling point 3, 500 m from the edge, representing different distance gradients. Mosquitoes were captured using CDC light traps with CO2, Shannon traps, and human-protected attraction; the combination of these traps provided a representative sampling of the diversity of adult mosquitoes present in the study area. An active search for immatures was performed in larval habitats using pipettes and entomological scoops. During the sampling period, a total of 1004 specimens were collected, comprising 320 immatures and 684 adults, representing 27 species. Statistical analyses showed that abundance and richness along the established gradient were not uniform among the sampling points. The Kruskal–Wallis test identified two distinct sampling points: the forest edge (point 1) and a location 35 m from the edge (point 2). The sampling point at the forest edge exhibited the highest levels of species richness, diversity, and evenness. However, given the brief duration of this study, it is crucial to expand the sampling efforts by increasing both the number and frequency of traps and collections. Such enhancements are essential to achieve a more thorough understanding of the ecological patterns and processes at play.
The Effect of Habitat Amount on Species Richness and Composition of Medium- and Large-Sized Mammals in the Cerrado Biome, Brazil
Authors: Rocha Ednaldo Cândido , Sá Amanda Aciely Serafim De , Vale Vagner Santiago do
Published: January 2025

Habitat fragmentation and reduction in the Cerrado are the primary threats to this biome’s biodiversity. The amount of habitat in the landscape has been proposed as the sole predictor variable for species richness in fragmented areas, potentially replacing the combined effects of fragment size and isolation (habitat amount hypothesis). This study aimed to test the influence of sampled fragment area, number of fragments, and habitat amount in local landscapes on the species richness of medium- and large-sized mammals in the Cerrado, southeastern Goiás, Brazil. The applicability of the habitat amount hypothesis to medium- and large-sized mammals in fragmented Cerrado habitats was thus evaluated. Medium- and large-sized mammal species were recorded from 2014 to 2018 in 14 Cerrado fragments in southeastern Goiás, Brazil. Using Landsat 7 and 8 satellite imagery from the year 2000 and the mammal sampling period, landscapes were delineated by creating buffers with a radius of 2 km from the central point of each sampled fragment. Through visual classification of these landscapes, the following variables were obtained: habitat amount in the landscape (HA), number of fragments (NP), and area of the sampled fragment (HF). The results indicate that the habitat amount in the past landscape (14 to 18 years before sampling) was the best predictor variable for the species richness and composition of medium- and large-sized mammals. The HA variable from the sampling period and the AREA variable from both periods also significantly influenced species composition. Therefore, considering the historical landscape context, the habitat amount hypothesis was applied to mammals in the Cerrado areas studied.
Evaluating Rumination Time Changes During Estrus in Dairy Cows
Authors: Mičiaková Mária , Strapák Peter , Strapáková Eva , Szencziová Iveta
Published: January 2025

This study evaluated the impact of estrus on changes in rumination over 24 h using data from the DataFlow™ II program and the Heatime RuminAct device, encompassing 634 estrous cycles of dairy cows. During the reference period, three days before estrus, cows spent an average of 511 min per day ruminating. One day before estrus, the total rumination time decreased to 503 min per day. During estrus, rumination time further decreased to 481 min, reflecting a reduction of 31 min per day (6.2%) compared to the pre-estrus reference period. After estrus ended, we observed an immediate increase in rumination time, with post-estrus levels comparable to pre-estrus values. Using a linear model, we assessed the influence of the herd and individual cows on changes in rumination time during estrus compared to the reference period. Our findings confirm the notable impact of estrus on rumination in dairy cows. The reduction in rumination time was most pronounced in heifers (−66 min, −13%), followed by first-lactation cows (−36 min, −7%) and multiparous cows (−16 min, −4%). The influence of the lactation stage was significant, with cows in early lactation showing a greater reduction in rumination compared to cows in later stages. Additionally, high-milk-yielding cows exhibited slightly lower rumination times during estrus, reflecting the interplay between diet composition and energy demands. These results underscore the role of parity, lactation stage, milk yield, and individual differences in shaping rumination behavior during estrus. Behavior-monitoring systems proved valuable for detecting estrus and managing reproduction in dairy herds. Our results showed a notable 6.2% reduction in rumination during estrus, highlighting its potential as a reliable indicator in regions like Slovakia, where economic challenges impact dairy farming sustainability.
Possible Use of Body Surface Area Value for Estimating Skeletal Muscle Mass in Chronic Liver Disease
Authors: Yoh Kazunori , Nishimura Takashi , Ikeda Naoto , Takashima Tomoyuki , Aizawa Nobuhiro , Yuri Yukihisa , Kimura Taro , Yoshihara Kohei , Yoshioka Ryota , Kawata Shoki , Kawase Yuta , Nakano Ryota , Shiomi Hideyuki , Fukunishi Shinya , Shinzaki Shinichiro , Nishiguchi Shuhei , Enomoto Hirayuki
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Sarcopenia is an important clinical feature of patients with chronic liver disease (CLD). However, special devices are required to determine skeletal muscle mass. We evaluated the usefulness of body surface area (BSA) for estimating muscle mass and diagnosing sarcopenia in patients with CLD. Methods: We retrospectively studied 1889 Japanese patients with CLD who underwent bioimpedance analysis (BIA) (training cohort, n = 983; validation cohort, n = 906). The optimal cutoff values for predicting low skeletal muscle mass index (SMI) were determined using ROC analysis. We also assessed 1229 patients whose BSA and grip strength (GS) data were obtained on the same day and evaluated the diagnostic performance of the determined cutoff values of BSA for the diagnosis of sarcopenia. Results: In the training cohort, a strong correlation was observed between the SMI and BSA (r = 0.883, p < 0.0001). The cutoff values of BSA for predicting low SMI were 1.68 m2 for men and 1.48 m2 for women. Regarding the presence of low SMI, 776 (78.9%) and 730 (80.5%) patients were correctly diagnosed in the training and validation cohorts, respectively. The sensitivity and specificity of the combination of BSA and GS for sarcopenia were 82.7% and 97.1%, respectively, and 1175 patients (95.6%) were correctly diagnosed. Conclusions: BSA was highly correlated with SMI, suggesting that BSA could facilitate noninvasive estimation of low skeletal muscle mass in patients with CLD.
Personalized Predictions of Therapeutic Hypothermia Outcomes in Cardiac Arrest Patients with Shockable Rhythms Using Explainable Machine Learning
Authors: Hong Chien-Tai , Bamodu Oluwaseun Adebayo , Chiu Hung-Wen , Chiu Wei-Ting , Chan Lung , Chung Chen-Chih
Published: January 2025

Background: Therapeutic hypothermia (TH) represents a critical therapeutic intervention for patients with cardiac arrest, although treatment efficacy and prognostic factors may vary between individuals. Precise, personalized outcome predictions can empower better clinical decisions. Methods: In this multi-center retrospective cohort study involving nine medical centers in Taiwan, we developed machine learning algorithms to predict neurological outcomes in patients who experienced cardiac arrest with shockable rhythms and underwent TH. The study cohort comprised 209 patients treated between January 2014 and September 2019. The models were trained on patients’ pre-treatment characteristics collected during this study period. The optimal artificial neural network (ANN) model was interpretable using the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method. Results: Among the 209 enrolled patients, 79 (37.80%) demonstrated favorable neurological outcomes at discharge. The ANN model achieved an area under the curve value of 0.9089 (accuracy = 0.8330, precision = 0.7984, recall = 0.7492, specificity = 0.8846) for outcome prediction. SHAP analysis identified vital predictive features, including the dose of epinephrine during resuscitation, diabetes status, body temperature at return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC), whether the cardiac arrest was witnessed, and diastolic blood pressure at ROSC. Using real-life case examples, we demonstrated how the ANN model provides personalized prognostic predictions tailored to individuals’ distinct profiles. Conclusion: Our machine learning approach delivers personalized forecasts of TH outcomes in cardiac arrest patients with shockable rhythms. By accounting for each patient’s unique health history and cardiac arrest event details, the ANN model empowers more precise risk stratification, tailoring clinical decision-making regarding TH prognostication and optimizing personalized treatment planning.
Population-Specific Anatomical Variations in Premolar Root Canal Systems: A Cross-Sectional Cone-Beam Computed Tomography Study of Jamaican and Portuguese Subpopulations
Authors: Martins Jorge N. R. , Tummala Sriteja , Nallapati Sasidhar , Marques Duarte , Silva Emmanuel João Nogueira Leal , Caramês João , Versiani Marco A.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The morphology of roots and root canals has a significant influence on the outcome of endodontic treatment. This study aimed to compare premolar root and root canal configurations between Central American and European subpopulations using cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT). Methods: This cross-sectional retrospective study analyzed CBCT scans of 2919 premolars from 561 patients: 197 from Jamaica (Central America) and 364 from Portugal (Europe). The analysis focused on the number of roots, root canal configurations, and the presence of C-shaped canals in mandibular premolars. Demographic factors such as age and sex were also considered. Statistical significance was determined using chi-square tests with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Results: Overall, premolars in Jamaican patients had more roots and root canals compared to those in Portuguese patients. Three-rooted configurations were more common in Jamaica, particularly in maxillary first premolars (5.5% vs. 2.9%, p < 0.05). Vertucci Type V configuration was more prevalent in the Central American subgroup, while Portuguese premolars were more likely to exhibit Types II and IV configurations. C-shaped canals were rare in both populations (p > 0.05). Males and younger patients showed higher frequencies of multi-root and multi-canal configurations (p < 0.05). Conclusions: This study reveals significant geographic and demographic differences in premolar root and root canal morphology between two Central American and European subpopulations. Premolars from Jamaica tend to exhibit more complex anatomical features compared to those from Portugal. These findings highlight the need for population-specific diagnostic and treatment strategies and demonstrate the value of CBCT in the preoperative diagnosis of complex anatomical variations.
Implementation of Virtual Reality in Preclinical Pediatric Dentistry Learning: A Comparison Between Simodont® and Conventional Methods
Authors: Caleya Antonia M. , Martín-Vacas Andrea , Mourelle-Martínez María Rosa , de Nova-Garcia Manuel Joaquín , Gallardo-López Nuria E.
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Preclinical training in pediatric dentistry is traditionally performed on acrylic primary teeth or natural extracted teeth in phantoms or dental manikins. With technological advancements, virtual simulation has become increasingly common, enhancing the development of cognitive and motor skills in dental students while complementing traditional methods. Specific objectives included assessing whether preclinical theoretical knowledge impacts motor skill scores, comparing the quality of dental preparations on acrylic teeth versus those performed using virtual simulation (Simodont®) and evaluating students’ perceptions of Simodont® use. Methods: An observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted. Students first completed a theoretical knowledge survey on dental preparations, class II caries, and pulpotomies. They then performed dental preparations on both acrylic primary teeth and the Simodont® simulator, with their work assessed by a pediatric dentistry professor. Finally, students completed a perception survey regarding their experience. Results: The introduction of the Simodont® was positively received. Theoretical knowledge prior to preclinical exercises did not significantly influence practice scores. Average scores for preparations on acrylic teeth (class II: 2.57; pulpotomy: 3.60) were higher than those achieved using Simodont® (class II: 1.97; pulpotomy: 2.92). Conclusions: Dental preparation scores were higher on acrylic teeth compared to the virtual simulation. While students reported a positive experience with Simodont®, they expressed a preference for traditional learning methods involving acrylic teeth on phantoms or dental manikins.
Establishing Students’ Satisfaction with a Learning Management System Using a Modified DeLone and McLean Model: A South African Sample Perspective
Authors: Simelane-Mnisi Sibongile , Mthimunye Johnny Mafika
Published: January 2025

Students’ use of LMSs in higher education institutions can be severely hampered by several factors that could lower their satisfaction. Good LMS service quality will increase student LMS satisfaction. Student LMS dissatisfaction will increase if the expectations are not fulfilled. The purpose of this study was to establish the factors influencing students’ satisfaction with IMFUNDO, the pseudonym for the LMS used at the University of Technology. This study was motivated by the literature that recommended further research on students’ LMS satisfaction. The quantitative method was used to attain the objective of testing the variables affecting students’ LMS satisfaction and validating the scientific model and hypotheses. The participants comprised 595 students from the Faculty of Science at the University of Technology in South Africa, who were selected using stratified random sampling. Data were gathered through student LMS satisfaction surveys. Data were analyzed using SPSS and AMOS version 29 software inferential statistics for validating CFA and SEM. The results revealed that the alpha values for the entire questionnaire were 0.96. The results showed that the chi-square (χ2) was statistically significant [χ2 = 743,52, df = 160, p < 0.0001]. The goodness of fit was TLI = 0.930, the CFI was 0.941, the RMSEA was 0.078, and all indicators were statistically significant (p < 0.0001). Using the conceptual framework that was grounded on the modified DeLone and McLean model was beneficial for the students at the University of Technology in South Africa. A mixed-method approach should be utilized to support the statistical findings with the participants’ opinions on this phenomenon.
Academics on Professional Helpers’ Education: How Do They Perceive the Work-Related Challenges?
Authors: Berei Emese Beáta , Kovács Klára
Published: January 2025

There is research on professional helper education and jobs working in a society with children and youth or supporting vulnerable people, but for academics, working in higher education, and preparing students for these work fields, it is not very common. This research focuses on academics from five European countries who prepare teachers, medical, healthcare, and clergy professionals. The aim is to design a map of pressures and challenges in their work. We hypothesized that academics in professional helper higher education (PHHE) perceive work-related challenges differently. Using explanatory research methodology, we considered higher education responsibilities: the working time and demands of academics. A total of 315 responses were used in our quantitative analyses from Romania, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, and Ukraine. The research questions were as follows: Are there differences between academics’ responsibilities and different PHHE scientific fields or work profiles? How do academics cope with work tasks and work time? How is a long hour-working academic’s profile? Statistical analyses using SPSS included cross-tabulation analysis, ANOVA and correlation tests, and factor analysis. We delimited two scientific fields and four academic working profiles: 1. academics in teacher education; 2. academics in medical/healthcare education; 3. leaders; 4. organizers; 5. classic lecturers; and 6. researchers. We designed five work demand patterns: controls and supports, global pressures, performance pressures, multi-role challenges, and lecturer roles. Drawing the map of pressures, we concluded that there are significant differences between those in teacher education in perceiving global (research, grant, and publish) responsibilities and performance pressures. At the same time, classic lecturers have significantly higher scores on perceiving performance challenges, and we deduced a positive and significant relation between multi-role challenges and overworking time. The design of the long hour-working profile of academics in PHHE is significantly associated with the medical and health scientific field. Men and academics from E.U. countries have significantly higher working time scores than females and workers outside E.U. Leaders have the highest working mean-time score comparing all the working fields and profiles. Our results for higher education teachers, researchers, policymakers, and institutional leaders can be useful in identifying work-related difficulties and maintaining a balanced distribution of work in the academic fields.
Wrapping Amorphous Indium-Gallium-Zinc-Oxide Transistors with High Current Density
Authors: Liu Jiaxin , Huang Shan , Xiao Zhenyuan , Li Ning , Kim Jaekyun , Jin Jidong , Zhang Jiawei
Published: January 2025

Amorphous oxide semiconductor transistors with a high current density output are highly desirable for large-area electronics. In this study, wrapping amorphous indium-gallium-zinc-oxide (a-IGZO) transistors are proposed to enhance the current density output relative to a-IGZO source-gated transistors (SGTs). Device performances are analyzed using technology computer-aided design (TCAD) simulations. The TCAD simulation results reveal that, with an optimized device structure, the current density of the wrapping a-IGZO transistor can reach 7.34 μA/μm, representing an approximate two-fold enhancement compared to that of the a-IGZO SGT. Furthermore, the optimized wrapping a-IGZO transistor exhibits clear flat saturation and pinch-off behavior. The proposed wrapping a-IGZO transistors show significant potential for applications in large-area electronics.
Transformer-Based Time-Series Forecasting for Telemetry Data in an Environmental Control and Life Support System of Spacecraft
Authors: Song Bin , Guo Boyu , Hu Wei , Zhang Zhen , Zhang Nan , Bao Junpeng , Wang Jianji , Xin Jingmin
Published: January 2025

Safety and stability are critical in manned space missions, requiring an environmental control and life support system (ECLSS) of spacecraft to operate reliably. This study analyzed the time-series characteristics of telemetry data, including total pressure, temperature, and humidity, to predict the ECLSS’s operational state. Existing algorithms for time-series forecasting, including ARIMA, LSTM, TCN, and NBEATS, often struggle with long-sequence forecasting and discrepancies in data distribution, which hinder their ability to deliver accurate predictions. To address these challenges, this study introduces a two-stage normalization method, mean instance normalization (MeanIN), designed to adjust input data distributions and restore output data distributions, thereby significantly enhancing predictive performance. Experimental evaluations on ECLSS telemetry data demonstrate that MeanIN consistently improves model accuracy, with the informer model achieving superior results in long-sequence forecasting tasks. These results underscore the efficacy of MeanIN and its potential to support critical applications in anomaly detection and predictive analysis for spacecraft telemetry data.
Technology and Applications for the Interpretation and Modeling of Advanced Sand Body Architectures
Authors: Fu Linpu , Wang Xixin , Zhong Xun , Cao Xiaoyue
Published: January 2025

As oil and gas fields continue to develop, water cut gradually increases [...]
Leveraging Positive Energy Districts Surplus for the Achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: Cellura Maurizio , Fichera Alberto , Guarino Francesco , Volpe Rosaria
Published: January 2025

This study explores the role of Positive Energy Districts (PEDs) in promoting sustainable urban development. PEDs, defined as urban areas that achieve net-zero energy import and CO2 emissions while producing a surplus of renewable energy, have gained attention as a promising solution to the challenges of urban sustainability. This research presents a comprehensive methodology for assessing the impact of PEDs on key United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as energy accessibility (SDG 7), sustainable cities (SDG 11), and climate action (SDG 13). By examining a case study of a potential PED in Southern Italy, this study demonstrates that PEDs can not only produce sufficient energy to meet their electrical demands, but also support up to 30 low-income households through surplus redistribution, offering an estimated annual economic savings of EUR 1145 per household. Thus, this surplus energy redistribution highlights the practical potential of PEDs to alleviate energy poverty, enhance social equity, and foster community solidarity, thereby extending their impact beyond energy sustainability. Additionally, the correlation between self-consumption and virtual distribution is equal to 0.83, suggesting that PEDs with high self-consumption are also actively involved in virtual distribution, posing the condition for efficient energy use.
Correction: Xu et al. Effects of Different Landscape Greening Pest Control Modes on Carbon Storage and Soil Physicochemical Properties. Forests 2024, 15, 2235
Authors: Xu Laixian , Wang Chao , He Youjun , He Yating
Published: January 2025

In the original publication [...]
Analysis of the Changes in the Mechanical Properties of Branches of Salix Energy Plants After Shearing
Authors: Walczak Natalia , Walczak Zbigniew
Published: January 2025

As a result of the energy crisis due, among other things, to climate change, most developed countries have taken steps with the main aim—among other things—of increasing the use of green energy sources that do not rely on fuels (including primarily liquid fuels) but use renewable energies. Plant biomass is a versatile substrate that can be used in many areas of the economy and production, but also for the production of various types of fuel. These range from rapeseed oil used as a component of biodiesel or maize starch for ethanol production to typically cellulosic plants such as energy willow, which can be used for direct combustion. The floodplain is home to this type of vegetation. It is characterized by great diversity in terms of geometric dimensions and mechanical and morphological properties. In addition, the location (easy access to water and sunlight) influences its potential energy value. Vegetation, thanks to favorable conditions, can achieve large weight gains in a relatively short period of time. Therefore, its properties should be carefully recognized in order to make more efficient use of energy and operating equipment used during harvesting. This paper presents an analysis of the changes in the elasticity of willow branches over a period of 16 days following harvesting. The changes were analyzed for branches taken from three different shrubs at three different plant height levels during the post-growth period. Based on the measurements carried out, the elastic modulus E of the shoots was estimated. The average modulus of elasticity ranged from about 4500 two days after cutting to about 5500 MPa 16 days after cutting and showed high variability, reaching even CV = 37%, both within a given shrub and depending on the measurement date. The results presented here indicate a high natural variability of mechanical parameters even within the same plant.
Study on Plant Diversity and Soil Properties of Different Forest Types in Pisha Sandstone Area and Their Correlation
Authors: Fan Dong , Yang Zhenqi , Guo Jianying , Qin Fucang , He Huifang , Han Weijie
Published: January 2025

Studying the variation characteristics of species diversity and soil properties across different forest types, as well as their interrelationships, enhances our understanding of the differences in forest growth and development within the Pisha sandstone area. In this study, we sampled and analyzed plant diversity along with physical and chemical soil factors from four distinct forest types in the Pisha sandstone region of Inner Mongolia. Our objective was to explore the characteristics of species diversity and soil properties associated with these forest types and to elucidate the relationship between them. The results showed that the order of soil moisture, nutrients, and species diversity in the four forest types was PT > AA > CK > PA.PT; this was significantly higher than other forest types. AA played an important role in the conservation of soil moisture and nutrients under the forest, and the soil nutrient level of PA was significantly lower. Using correlation analysis, we determined that soil properties were the key factors affecting the understory species diversity of different forest types, and SWC, SOM, and AN were the dominant factors in the relationship between the two. Using PCA, it was found that PT and AA had good ecological benefits of soil and water conservation. Our findings indicate that soil nutrient content and moisture levels are critical factors limiting plant species diversity in the Pisha sandstone area. Furthermore, PT and AA demonstrate a beneficial effect on ecological restoration efforts within this region. This study offers a theoretical foundation for managing the process of forest ecological restoration in the Pisha sandstone area.
The Geometry of Southern China’s Mangroves: Small and Elongated
Authors: Zhang Lin , Deng Yijuan , Wang Wenqing , Wang Mao
Published: January 2025

Mangrove wetlands are naturally divided into habitat patches by tidal creeks, with patch edges highly vulnerable to human activities and biological invasions, making them critical areas for mangrove degradation. Understanding the geometrical characteristics of these patches is essential for mangrove management in the Anthropocene, yet their exploration remains limited. Using a high-resolution (2 m) mangrove distribution dataset from 2018, we analyzed the patch structure of mangroves in southern China. This study revealed predominantly small and elongated patches, with an average area of 0.044 km2 and a median of 0.011 km2 across 5857 patches. About 65% of patches had a major-axis length over twice their minor-axis length. The patch number and area peaked between 19° N and 22° N. The patch number and area peaked between 19° N and 22° N. In the 0.1° × 0.1° latitudinal-longitudinal grid, the maximum mangrove area was 9.03 km2, consisting of 192 patches. Additionally, the patch composition and geometric characteristics differed significantly among the existing reserves. These findings highlight the need to prioritize the patch geometry in management strategies, especially in regions with numerous small patches prone to degradation and invasion. Additionally, this study underscores a critical research gap: the ecological impacts of mangrove fragmentation on biodiversity and ecosystem services remain poorly understood. Future research should focus on how the patch structure and landscape configuration influence ecological processes in mangrove wetlands.
Fermented Feed Promotes Gut Development by Enhancing Intestinal Stem Cell Expansion via Activation of the Wnt/β-Catenin Signaling Pathway
Authors: Qu Haozhan , Zan Gengxiu , Li Haoyan , Wang Xiaofan , Zhou Jiayi , Wang Xiuqi , Yan Huichao
Published: January 2025

Fermented feed is extensively used in animal production due to their improved palatability and efficient utilization. This study aimed to explore the effects of fermented feed on growth performance and gut health, particularly through the modulation of intestinal stem cells (ISCs). Twenty-four 28-day-old male weaned piglets were randomly assigned into two groups (n = 12): piglets in a control group fed a basal diet, and an experimental group fed a basal diet replaced with 6% fermented mixed feed (FMF) for 28 days. The results indicated that FMF significantly elevated the growth rate, feed intake, and nutrient digestibility of piglets (p < 0.05). Furthermore, FMF supplementation increased the jejunal villus height, transepithelial electrical resistance (TEER) values, and the expression of tight junction proteins (ZO-1 and Claudin1) (p < 0.05). Immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis revealed that FMF increased the number of Olfm4+ ISCs and PCNA+ mitotic cells in jejunal crypts, facilitating the differentiation of ISCs into enterocytes (Villin), goblet cells (MUC2), and enteroendocrine cells (CHGA). Conversely, the protein expression of Cleaved Caspase-3 was decreased in the FMF group (p < 0.05). Notably, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, including FZD7 and Active β-catenin, was significantly upregulated in the jejunum after FMF supplementation. Consistent with these findings, intestinal organoids derived from jejunal crypts in the FMF group demonstrated enhanced growth and increased expression of Lgr5, PCNA, KRT20, and β-catenin (p < 0.05). These results suggest that fermented feed promotes intestinal development by enhancing ISC proliferation and differentiation via activation of the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway.
Systematic and Bibliometric Review of Biomethane Production from Biomass-Based Residues: Technologies, Economics and Environmental Impact
Authors: Tiago Gonçalo A. O. , Rodrigo Naresh P. B. , Lourinho Gonçalo , Lopes Tiago F. , Gírio Francisco
Published: January 2025

Fossil fuels drive global warming, necessitating renewable alternatives such as biomethane (or renewable natural gas). Biomethane, primarily produced through anaerobic digestion (AD), offers a cleaner energy solution but is limited by the slow AD process. Biomass gasification followed by syngas methanation has emerged as a faster alternative. This review examines advancements in these processes over the last decade (2015–2024), focusing on techno-economic and life cycle assessment (LCA) studies. Techno-economic analyses reveal that biomethane production costs are influenced by several factors, including process complexity, feedstock type and the scale of production. Smaller gasification units tend to exhibit higher capital costs (CAPEX) per MW capacity, while feedstock choice and process efficiency play significant roles in determining overall production costs. LCA studies highlight higher impacts for gasification and methanation due to energy demands and associated emissions. However, integrating renewable hydrogen production through electrolysis, along with innovations such as sorption-enhanced gasification (SEG), can enhance overall system efficiency and reduce environmental impacts. This review critically evaluates the technical and economic challenges, along with the opportunities for optimizing biomethane production, and discusses the potential for these technologies to contribute to sustainable bioenergy solutions in the transition to a low-carbon economy.
Prevalence and Clinical Characteristics of OTOGL-Associated Hearing Loss Identified in a Cohort of 7065 Japanese Patients with Hearing Loss
Authors: Maekawa Karuna , Nishio Shin-ya , Ishikawa Kotaro , Takahashi Masahiro , Kumakawa Kozo , Okami Mayuri , Yoshimura Hidekane , Nakayama Jun , Teraoka Masato , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Hearing loss is one of the most common sensorineural impairments, and approximately 60% of early-onset cases are due to genetic variations. The otogelin-like protein, encoded by the OTOGL gene, is a component of the acellular membranes of the inner ear, such as the tectorial membrane, and is thought to play an important role in cochlear amplification. OTOGL gene variants are a rare cause of hearing loss such as DFNB84B, a mild-to-moderate sensorineural hearing loss presenting in early childhood with autosomal recessive inheritance. In this study, we aim to enhance our comprehension of the phenotypes of hearing loss caused by OTOGL variants. Methods: A total of 7056 Japanese patients with hearing loss were recruited, and based on massively parallel DNA sequencing on 158 target genes, we selected patients with biallelic OTOGL variants. Results: Ten affected individuals with OTOGL gene variants were detected, the largest group of patients yet to be reported, and eight of the eleven variants were novel. Our results showed that variations in this gene led to mild-to-moderate non-progressive hearing loss, and the accompanying symptoms, mainly vestibular symptoms, were speculated to present in adulthood. Conclusions: Determination of the phenotypes of genes causative of hearing loss is expected to greatly benefit patients with hearing loss as it can assist in predicting outcomes and lead to appropriate intervention, which, in OTOGL-associated hearing loss cases, is based around the fact that the patients need not be concerned with deterioration in hearing, but require careful follow-up for vestibular symptoms.
Does Asymmetric Reproductive Isolation Predict the Direction of Introgression in Plants?
Authors: Martin Noland H. , Zalmat Alexander S. , Ellis Bailey S. , McGarvey Sophia , Simmons-Frazier Kayla , Mancusi Katelin , Sotola V. Alex
Published: January 2025

The evolution of reproductive isolation (RI) results in the reduction of interspecific hybridization and the maintenance of species boundaries. Asymmetries in RI, where one species more frequently serves as the maternal or paternal parent in initial F1 hybrid formation, are commonly observed in plants. Asymmetric introgression, the predominantly unidirectional transfer of genetic material through hybridization and backcrossing, has also been frequently documented in hybridizing plant taxa as well. This study investigates whether asymmetries in total RI measured between species can predict the direction of introgression in naturally hybridizing plant taxa. A meta-analysis was conducted on 19 plant species pairs with published data on both asymmetric total RI, and asymmetric introgression. Species pairs that met these criteria were identified through a comprehensive literature review. A two-tailed binomial test was performed to evaluate whether asymmetric RI was associated with asymmetries in introgression. No significant relationship was found between asymmetries in total RI and the direction of introgression (p = 0.3593). Asymmetric RI largely does not predict the direction of introgression. Rather, introgression patterns may be better understood by examining F1 and later-generation hybrids in natural settings, focusing on their fitness, mating behaviors, and the ecological and demographic factors that shape hybrid zones.