bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Saline–Alkali Tolerance Evaluation of Giant Reed (Arundo donax) Genotypes Under Saline–Alkali Stress at Seedling Stage
Authors: Cai Yangxing , Cao Xiuming , Liu Bin , Lin Hui , Luo Hailing , Liu Fengshan , Su Dewei , Lv Shi , Lin Zhanxi , Lin Dongmei
Published: February 2025

Soil salinization and alkalization are serious global challenges that adversely affect crop growth and yield. In this study, six genotypes of giant reed (Arundo donax) seedlings (LvZhou_No.1, LvZhou_No.3, LvZhou_No.6, LvZhou_No.11, LvZhou_No.12 and LvZhou_Var.) originating from different regions of China and Rwanda were utilized as experimental materials. This study aimed to investigate the physiological and biochemical responses of various genotypes to saline–alkali stress and to identify stress-tolerant resources. A mixture saline–alkali solution with a molar ratio of NaCl: Na2SO4: NaHCO3: Na2CO3 = 1:1:1:1 was prepared at three concentrations (75, 150 and 225 millimolar (mM)) for a 7-day pot experiment. Growth and physiological indices were measured at the seedling stage, and salt tolerance was evaluated accordingly. The results indicated the following: the growth indices were significantly reduced across seedlings of all genotypes when the concentration of stress exceeded 150 mM (p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in chlorophyll content (SPAD value) and maximum photochemical efficiency of PS II (Fv/Fm) with increasing saline–alkali stress. However, the photosynthetic rate (Pn), stomatal conductance (Gs) and transpiration rate (Tr) exhibited decreasing trends, reaching their lowest levels at 225 mM. In contrast, the intercellular CO2 concentration (Ci) value decreased to its lowest at 150 mM but increased at 225 mM. Relative electrical conductivity (REC) and the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA), proline (Pro) and soluble sugar (SS) increased progressively with higher stress concentrations. The activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) were significantly enhanced at stress concentrations above 150 mM. The saline–alkali tolerance of A. donax seedlings was comprehensively evaluated using principal component analysis and membership function analysis based on 15 parameters. The results indicate that Pn, Tr and Gs are effective physiological indicators for assessing saline–alkali tolerance of A. donax seedlings. The six genotypes were ranked for saline–alkali tolerance as follows: LZ_No.1 > LZ_No.11 > LZ_No.12 > LZ_Var. > LZ_No.3 > LZ_No.6. This indicates that LZ_No.1 shows the highest resistance to saline–alkali stress, whereas LZ_No.6 is the most severely affected, classifying it as a salinity-sensitive genotype. In conclusion, LZ_No.1 exhibits robust saline–alkali tolerance and represents a valuable germplasm resource for improving saline–alkali tolerance in A. donax propagation. The results not only support the development of resilient plants for saline–alkali environments but also offer insights into the mechanisms of salinity tolerance.
Structural Characterization of the Dimers and Selective Synthesis of the Cyclic Analogues of the Antimicrobial Peptide Cm-p5
Authors: Morales-Vicente Fidel E. , Espinosa Luis A. , Díaz-Pico Erbio , Martell Ernesto M. , Gonzalez Melaine , Ojeda Gerardo , González Luis Javier , Rodríguez Armando , Garay Hilda E. , Franco Octavio L. , Rosenau Frank , Otero-González Anselmo J. , Ständker Ludger
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Cm-p5 and its cyclic monomeric and dimeric analogues are known for their antifungal, antibacterial, antiviral, and antibiofilm activities. Previously, our cyclization method produced a mixture of peptides that were difficult to separate, which was then improved by a selective synthesis of the parallel dimer and its differentiation from the antiparallel by comparison of the retention times in RP-HPLC. Methods: Here, we developed a more reliable identification method for the Cm-p5 dimer identification, which included chymotrypsin proteolytic digestion and sequencing of the different fragments by ESI-MSMS. We also improved our cyclization methods to specifically produce higher amounts of the desired cyclic variant, either cyclic monomer or dimer. Results: We show that liquid phase oxidation with 20% DMSO or iodine oxidation yields only the cyclic analogue. However, the on-resin oxidation with iodine showed greater efficacy and efficiency. Additionally, liquid phase cyclization yields the antiparallel dimer in high EtOH or peptide concentration, indicating a kinetic control. On the other hand, the parallel dimer was preferentially produced in 5% of TFE and low peptide concentration without the formation of the cyclic analogue indicating a thermodynamic control. Conclusions: In conclusion, we report that chymotryptic digestion combined with ESI-MS and MS/MS allows an unambiguous differentiation of Cm-p5 dimers. Here, we develop more selective and efficient methods for the synthesis of cyclic and dimeric analogues of Cm-p5.
Hybrid Integent Staging of Age-Related Macular Degeneration for Decision-Making on Patient Management Tactics
Authors: Lopukhova Ekaterina A. , Yusupov Ernest S. , Ibragimova Rada R. , Idrisova Gulnaz M. , Mukhamadeev Timur R. , Grakhova Elizaveta P. , Kutluyarov Ruslan V.
Published: February 2025

Treatment efficacy for age-related macular degeneration relies on early diagnosis and precise determination of the disease stage. This involves analyzing biomarkers in retinal images, which can be challenging when handling a large flow of patients and can compromise the quality of healthcare services. Clinical decision support systems offer a solution to this issue by employing intelligent algorithms to recognize biomarkers and specify the age-related macular degeneration stage through the analysis of retinal images. However, different stages of age-related macular degeneration may exhibit similar biomarkers, complicating the application of intelligent algorithms. This article presents a hybrid and hierarchical classification method for solving these problems. By leveraging the hybrid structure of the classifier, we can effectively manage issues commonly encountered with medical datasets, such as class imbalance and strong correlations between variables. The modifications to the intelligent algorithm proposed in this work for staging age-related macular degeneration resulted in an increase in average accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity of 20% compared to initial values. The Cohen’s Kappa coefficient, used for consistency estimation between the regression model and expert assessments of the intermediate class severity, was 0.708, indicating a high level of agreement.
Tensor Decomposition Through Neural Architectures
Authors: Ghnatios Chady , Chinesta Francisco
Published: February 2025

Machine learning (ML) technologies are currently widely used in many domains of science and technology, to discover models that transform input data into output data. The main advantages of such a procedure are the generality and simplicity of the learning process, while their weaknesses remain the required amount of data needed to perform the training and the recurrent difficulties to explain the involved rationale. At present, a panoply of ML techniques exist, and the selection of a method or another depends, in general, on the type and amount of data being considered. This paper proposes a procedure which provides not a field or an image as an output, but its singular value decomposition (SVD), or an SVD-like decomposition, while injecting as input data scalars or the SVD decomposition of an input field. The result is a tensor-to-tensor decomposition, without the need for the full fields, or an input to an output SVD-like decomposition. The proposed method works for the non-hyper-parallepipedic domain, and for any space dimensionality. The results show the ability of the proposed architecture to link the input filed and output field, without requiring access to full space reconstruction.
Philosophical Research Combined with Mathematics in Dam Safety Monitoring and Risk Analysis
Authors: Wang Yan , Li Shuangping , He Qi , Yang Meng , Liu Zuqiang , Jiang Taoming
Published: February 2025

In this study, philosophical research combined with mathematics was carried out in the area of dam safety monitoring and risk analysis. Variational mode decomposition was improved and proposed for dam deformation prediction though deep learning. The accuracy and generalization ability of dam deformation prediction were improved effectively. These should be fully understood in the context of the interaction and mutual promotion relationship between dam safety and risk monitoring and analysis, with a consideration of the imbalance of the environment and structure in development during the analysis and research of dam safety. The feasibility of this method for improving structural health monitoring systems is verified by analyzing the deformation monitoring data of a concrete dam. Moreover, a basic reference frame for opening up the deep cross-integration of disciplines was formulated with the dialectical, comprehensive, and dynamic study and exploration of dam safety monitoring and analysis from the perspective of philosophy. It is of great significance to optimize dam safety structure health monitoring, construct dam safety monitoring systems scientifically, ensure dam safety, and realize social harmony by analyzing and exploring the philosophical root of dam safety and risk analysis from the perspective of connection and development, contradiction, and unity. It was found that the proposed deformation analysis model can select the optimal set of influence factors for dam displacement and quickly perform modal decomposition compared with the conventional monitoring model. The prediction accuracy and generality of the model were improved to a certain extent. The purpose of this research is to search for a new pathway to obtain a more objective and accurate method for dam safety analysis.
Photoelectrochemical Behavior of CuWO4 in Tandem System with CuBi2O4
Authors: Murashkina Anna A. , Rudakova Aida V. , Bakiev Tair V. , Emeline Alexei V. , Bahnemann Detlef W.
Published: February 2025

In this study, we explore the charge transfer mechanism between CuWO4 and CuBi2O4 in a tandem photoelectrochemical cell. Physical–chemical characterization of the individual between CuWO4 and CuBi2O4 electrodes electrode by XRD, XPS, and SEM methods confirm the successful formation of the target systems. Based on XPS and DRS data, the electronic band edge positions were estimated (valence bands: −6.1 eV and −5.6 eV; conduction bands: −3.7 eV and −3.8 eV for CuWO4 and CuBi2O4, respectively), indicating that both type II and Z-scheme charge transfer mechanisms are possible in the system. The results of photoelectrochemical studies infers that, in a CuWO4||CuBi2O4 tandem photoelectrochemical cell, the major mechanism of the charge transfer between CuWO4 and CuBi2O4 is a realization of Z-scheme through an external circuit.
Mesenchymal Stem/Stromal Cells (MSCs) from Mouse Pelvic vs. Long Bones Exhibit Disparate Critical Quality Attributes: Implications for Translational Studies
Authors: Boregowda Siddaraju V. , Booker Cori N. , Strivelli Jacqueline , Phinney Donald G.
Published: February 2025

Mesenchymal stem/stromal cells (MSCs) have been exploited as an experimental cell therapy in a broad array of clinical applications but have underperformed based on results from pre-clinical studies due to gaps in translating pre-clinical findings to human patients. Herein, we isolated mouse MSCs from pelvic bone marrow (BMP), a preferred source for human MSCs, and compared their growth, differentiation, and immuno-modulatory activity to those derived from long bone marrow (BML), the traditional source of mouse MSCs. We report that BMP-MSCs exhibit significantly enhanced growth kinetics in 5% and 21% oxygen saturation and superior bi-lineage differentiation and hematopoiesis-supporting activity as compared to BML-MSCs. Additionally, we show that TNF upregulates inducible nitric oxide synthase (NOS2) in BML- and BMP- MSCs and augments their immune suppressive activity in cell-based assays, while interferon-gamma (INFG) upregulates indoleamine, 2-3, dioxygenase (IDO1) and enhances the immune suppressive activity of only BMP-MSCs. These results indicate that mouse MSCs sourced from different bone compartments exhibit measurable differences in critical quality attributes, and these differences are comparable to those observed across species. Based on these differences, BMP- MSCs represent a useful resource to model the behavior of human BM-derived MSCs.
Recent Advances in NIR-II Molecular Aggregates and Applications in the Biomedical Field
Authors: Wu Kun , Yang Ruowen , Song Xuefang , Ju Huangxian , Liu Ying
Published: February 2025

Near-infrared (NIR) light is a promising tool for biomedical imaging and therapy, offering excellent tissue penetration, low scattering, and minimal biological fluorescence interference. An NIR-II optical range of 900–1880 nm with reduced background interference is particularly useful for disease diagnosis and treatment. Probes based on organic molecules are gaining attention for their structural flexibility and stable performance. Organic molecular aggregates, such as J-aggregates, H-aggregates, and aggregation-induced emission (AIE)-aggregates, exhibit unique optical properties like tunable spectral shifts, improved photostability, and higher absorption and fluorescence quantum yields. This mini review briefly discusses the advancements in NIR-II optical imaging and therapy technologies, focusing on the classification, formation mechanisms, and applications of organic molecular aggregates in disease diagnosis and treatment, offering a theoretical foundation and practical guidance for future research.
Biologically Active Components and Skincare Benefits of Rice Fermentation Products: A Review
Authors: Yang Fan , Hu Yawen , Wu Meihui , Guo Miao , Wang Hua
Published: February 2025

With the growing demand for environmental sustainability, the cosmetics industry is increasingly turning to natural ingredients with high bioactivity and efficacy. Rice, a staple food in many cultures, particularly in Asia, is renowned for its nutritional and medicinal benefits, as well as its skincare properties. Numerous studies have emphasized the multifunctional benefits of rice in skincare, ranging from its ability to enhance hydration to its effectiveness in addressing signs of aging, positioning it as a promising ingredient in cosmetic formulations. Recently, fermentation has emerged as an innovative technique that significantly enhances the bioactive potential of rice. This process amplifies the production of beneficial compounds, such as organic acids, amino acids, polyphenols, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Previous studies have shown that rice fermentation products (RFPs) exhibit a range of skincare benefits, including moisturization, antioxidation, anti-inflammation, whitening, and anti-aging effects. This review provides an overview of the fermentation process and advantages of RFPs, followed by a detailed analysis of their key bioactive components and the diverse skincare benefits they offer. Moreover, we discuss the challenges related to the standardization, component analysis, and efficacy evaluation of these products, and we conclude with potential future research directions to fully explore the skincare potential of RFPs.
Pediatric Kikuchi–Fujimoto Disease: Case Report and Review of Cutaneous and Histopathologic Features in Childhood
Authors: Soto-Moreno Alberto , Vílchez-Márquez Francisco , Narváez-Simón María , Castro-Martín Julia , Ramos-Pleguezuelos Francisco Manuel , Soto-Díaz Agustín , Tercedor-Sánchez Jesús , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: February 2025

Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease (KFD) is a rare condition characterized by necrotizing lymphadenitis and fever, often associated with immune dysregulation. Histologically, it features necrotic foci with abundant histiocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells but notably lacks neutrophils and eosinophils. Recent evidence reveals a notable prevalence among pediatric patients, who may exhibit distinct features compared to adults. We reported the case of an 11-year-old girl presenting with persistent fever, cervical adenopathy, and a malar rash, leading to a diagnosis of KFD following lymph node biopsy, which revealed non-suppurative necrosis and histiocytic infiltration. Empirical treatment with antivirals and antibiotics was ineffective, but corticosteroid therapy achieved symptom remission. A literature review identified 48 relevant studies involving 386 pediatric cases, with histopathological findings consistent with classical descriptions of KFD. Cutaneous involvement was reported in 11.14% of cases, ranging from maculopapular rashes to lupus-like eruptions. Notable complications included the development of systemic lupus erythematous, Sjögren syndrome, and rare instances of hemophagocytic syndrome or central nervous system involvement. Kikuchi–Fujimoto disease should be considered in the differential diagnosis of pediatric patients presenting with fever and lymphadenopathy, taking into account a higher frequency of cutaneous manifestations in pediatric cases. A skin biopsy may be helpful in diagnosing KFD and provide valuable information regarding the potential risk of developing systemic lupus erythematosus in the future.
Sudden Cardiac Death: The Role of Molecular Autopsy with Next-Generation Sequencing
Authors: Fadoni Jennifer , Santos Agostinho , Amorim António , Cainé Laura
Published: February 2025

Molecular autopsy is a term employed to describe the investigation of the cause of death through the analysis of genetic information using biological samples collected post-mortem. Its utility becomes evident in situations where conventional medico-legal autopsy methods are not able to identify the cause of death, i.e., in sudden cardiac death (SCD) cases in young individuals, where deaths are commonly due to genetic cardiac conditions, such as cardiomyopathies and channelopathies. The recent advancement in high-throughput sequencing techniques, such as next-generation sequencing (NGS), has allowed the investigation of a high number of genomic regions in a more cost-effective and faster approach. Unlike traditional sequencing methods, which can only sequence one DNA fragment at a time, NGS can sequence millions of short polynucleotide fragments simultaneously. This parallel approach reduces both the time and cost required to generate large-scale genomic data, making it a useful tool for applications ranging from basic research to molecular autopsy. In the forensic context, by enabling the examination of multiple genes or entire exomes and genomes, NGS enhances the accuracy and depth of genetic investigations, contributing to a better understanding of complex inherited diseases. However, challenges remain, such as the interpretation of variants of unknown significance (VUS), the need for standardized protocols, and the high demand for specialized bioinformatics expertise. Despite these challenges, NGS continues to offer significant promise for enhancing the precision of molecular autopsies. The goal of this review is to assess the effectiveness of contemporary advancements in molecular autopsy methodologies when applied to cases of SCD in young individuals and to present an overview of the steps involved in the analysis of NGS data and the interpretation of genetic variants.
Burn Wound Dynamics Measured with Hyperspectral Imaging
Authors: Wild Thomas , Marotz Jörg , Aljowder Ahmed , Siemers Frank
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI) combined with an augmented model-based data processing enables the measurement of the depth-resolved perfusion of burn wounds. With these methods, the fundamental problem of the wound dynamics (wound conversion or progression) in the first 4 days should be parametrically analyzed and evaluated. Material and Methods: From a cohort of 59 patients with burn injuries requiring medical intervention, 281 homogenous wound segments were selected and subjected to clinical classification based on the duration of healing. The classification was retrospectively assigned to each segment during the period from day 0 to day 2 post-burn. The perfusion parameters were presented in two parameter spaces describing the upper and deeper perfusion. Results: The investigation of value distributions within the parameter spaces pertaining to four distinct categories of damage from superficial dermal to full-thickness burns during the initial four days reveals the inherent variability and distinct patterns associated with wound progression, depending on the severity of damage. The analysis highlights the challenges associated with estimating the burn degrees during this early stage and elucidates the significance of deeper tissue perfusion in the classification process, which cannot be discerned through visual inspections. Conclusions: The feasibility of early classification on day 0 or 1 was assessed, and the findings indicate a restricted level of reliability, particularly on day 0, primarily due to the substantial variability observed in wound characteristics and inherent dynamics.
Cost-Efficient Hybrid Filter-Based Parameter Selection Scheme for Intrusion Detection System in IoT
Authors: Amaizu Gabriel Chukwunonso , Maradapu Vera Venkata Sai Akshita , Siddula Madhuri , Kim Dong-Seong
Published: February 2025

The rapid growth of Internet of Things (IoT) devices has brought about significant advancements in automation, data collection, and connectivity across various domains. However, this increased interconnectedness also poses substantial security challenges, making IoT networks attractive targets for malicious actors. Intrusion detection systems (IDSs) play a vital role in protecting IoT environments from cyber threats, necessitating the development of sophisticated and effective NIDS solutions. This paper proposes an IDS that addresses the curse of dimensionality by eliminating redundant and highly correlated features, followed by a wrapper-based feature ranking to determine their importance. Additionally, the IDS incorporates cutting-edge image processing techniques to reconstruct data into images, which are further enhanced through a filtering process. Finally, a meta classifier, consisting of three base models, is employed for efficient and accurate intrusion detection. Simulation results using industry-standard datasets demonstrate that the hybrid parameter selection approach significantly reduces computational costs while maintaining reliability. Furthermore, the combination of image transformation and ensemble learning techniques achieves higher detection accuracy, further enhancing the effectiveness of the proposed IDS.
Material Characterization and Strategies for Optimization of Additively Manufactured Electric Machines—A Review
Authors: Ul Hassan Shaheer , Hussain Shah Mazahir , Pešek Luděk , Chomát Miroslav
Published: February 2025

With the advent of 3D printing, advancements in optimizing structures and innovations to 3D print new materials for electric machines are being developed. Conventional structures are being replaced by lattice structures which provide better properties. From plastics to metals, recent achievements have been made in the 3D printing of soft and hard magnetic materials. Hard magnetic materials are mostly printed by mixing them with ferrites or using a binder material. This paper focuses on all the different methods and compositions to 3D print metals and soft and hard magnetic materials. Although research is still undergoing to expand the use of different magnetic materials, we still have some limitations in their use in electric machines e.g., mixing hard magnetic materials with other materials for 3D printing weakens their electromagnetic properties. Some 3D printing processes provide a comparatively low mechanical strength. With research being undertaken to overcome these challenges, recent 3D-printed magnetic materials for the use in electric machines are discussed in this paper. Apart from materials, different optimization strategies are also introduced that increase the efficiency of the 3D-printed parts e.g., process optimization, topology optimization, and thermal optimization. Process optimization includes different multi-material strategies to reduce the time taken, print multiple parts in one process, and improve the properties of the part. Topology optimization revolves around optimized designs. The properties of electric machines are enhanced by using optimized shapes of rotor, stator, and coils. During the operation of electric machines, there is always some heat generation. The efficient removal of this heat from the system can increase the efficiency of the part. Thermal optimization to efficiently dissipate the heat to the atmosphere is achieved by using phase-changing materials (PCMs), by installing cooling systems, or by introducing optimized structures with better thermal properties. All these developments are discussed in this paper.
Privacy-Preserving Hierarchical Top-k Nearest Keyword Search on Graphs
Authors: Zhu Xijuan , Xu Zifeng , Hu Chao , Lin Jun
Published: February 2025

Graph search techniques are increasingly vital for applications involving labeled or textual content on network vertices. A key task is the top-k nearest keyword (kNK) search on undirected graphs where a query vertex and keywords identify k closest vertices containing the keywords. With cloud storage widely used for outsourcing graph services, ensuring data privacy and security is critical. Existing solutions employ encrypted indexes for privacy-preserving keyword searches but lack fine-grained access control, limiting their ability to accommodate diverse user needs. To address this, we propose privacy-preserving hierarchical top-k nearest keyword search on graphs (PH-kNK), a novel scheme enhancing privacy-preserving top-k keyword searches by integrating hierarchical access control. PH-kNK introduces hierarchical query entry indexes that regulate access at multiple security levels, significantly improving privacy, security and adaptability. The granular query entry indexes established by our approach enables users with higher security levels to query the graph structure and access corresponding vertices while maintaining transparency for lower-level users. The scheme leverages pseudo-random mapping, order-preserving encryption and re-encryption of search indexes to ensure robust data security. Experimental results on real-world datasets demonstrate the scheme’s high efficiency and validate its security.
The Efficacy of Cotrimoxazole for the Prevention of Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia Among HIV-Exposed and Infected Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Agwu Anthony O. , Egwu Chinedu Ogbonnia , Okorocha Albert Egwu , Enyanwuma Ifeanyi , Amadi Cyril C. , Okpokoro Evaezi , Akpabio Francis Patrick , Aguwa Chukwuemeka Ogbonnaya , Onwu Donatus , Nwokoro Onyedikachi
Published: February 2025

Background: HIV-related opportunistic infections like Pneumocystis jirovecii Pneumonia (PCP) remain a major contributor to child morbidity and mortality globally. PCP accounts for over 60% of AIDS in the first year of life and is responsible for a third of AIDS in children globally. Cotrimoxazole prophylaxis, which is an intervention directed towards tackling this burden, has not attained remarkable coverage despite advocacy towards scale-up. This work was therefore aimed at evaluating the efficacy of cotrimoxazole in the prevention of PCP among children exposed to and infected with HIV by carrying out a systematic review. Methods: Key scientific databases were searched for primary studies not older than 15 years old without language restrictions. Randomized Control Trials (RCTs) and Cohorts comparing the effectiveness of cotrimoxazole versus placebo in the prevention of PCP among children (<17 years) exposed to and infected with HIV were selected. Studies with a duration of follow-up not less than 3 months long were included. A meta-analysis was conducted on RevMan 5.3 statistical application software following data extraction, and the data quality and risk of bias were also assessed. Exactly Ten (10) studies were selected and analyzed. Findings: It was observed that cotrimoxazole had beneficial effects in terms of a reduction in mortality among HIV-exposed and infected children, as 72 fewer children in 1000 (based on an absolute 95% CI) will die as a result of cotrimoxazole compared to a placebo. Cotrimoxazole also significantly reduces hospital admissions (p-value of 0.008). The adverse events associated with cotrimoxazole are comparable to a placebo when co-administered with ARTS (p = 0.90), which did not impact adherence. Conclusion: The benefits of cotrimoxazole prophylaxis far outweigh its risks. Therefore, scaling up the intervention is recommended as a prophylactic for wider coverage, especially in resource-limited settings.
A Deep Learning Approach to Automated Treatment Classification in Tuna Processing: Enhancing Quality Control in Indonesian Fisheries
Authors: Tupan Johan Marcus , Rieuwpassa Fredrik , Setha Beni , Latuny Wilma , Goesniady Samuel
Published: February 2025

The Indonesian maritime territory harbors a rich diversity of marine resources, making up approximately 37% of global fish species diversity. Tuna, particularly in Maluku Province, stands out as a vital economic asset with growing production and export numbers. Current practices for processing and evaluating tuna meat, however, face significant limitations due to basic infrastructure and reliance on manual inspection methods, leading to potential contamination risks and treatment identification errors. This research addresses these challenges by implementing an advanced deep learning solution based on convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to automatically identify three distinct treatment categories for tuna loin: No-Treatment, CO-Treatment, and CS-Treatment. Trained on a comprehensive image dataset, the model demonstrated exceptional performance with 95% accuracy. While field testing confirmed the model’s strong performance in correctly identifying treatment categories, occasional classification errors highlighted areas for improvement in data preprocessing. This study provides a significant step forward in automated fish processing assessment technology, offering a promising solution to longstanding challenges in the marine processing industry.
Investigation of Microjet Engine Inlet Pressure Distortions at Angled Inflow Velocity Conditions
Authors: Sanchez Villacreses Santiago , Yao Jun , Yao Yufeng , Chandra Budi
Published: February 2025

The Armfield CM14 microjet axial flow turbine engine has been tested in open space at ambient conditions with engine inlet pressure at the aerodynamic interface plane (AIP) measured by a built-in pressure sensor for validating computational fluid dynamics (CFD) studies. A three-dimensional computational domain of the test engine intake duct configuration is defined, followed by mesh convergence studies. The latter results in a fine mesh of 5.7 million cells on which CFD-predicted engine inlet pressures are in good agreement with the experimental measurements at the AIP face for 20–100% throttles. CFD studies are continued to investigate the engine inlet pressure distortions at two inflow velocities of 35 m/s and 70 m/s, and various inflow angles ranging from 0° to 30° with a step of 5°, to evaluate their impacts on engine inlet pressure distortions. It is found that pressure distortions increase with the inflow angle, with severe pressure distortions occurring at higher inflow angles above 15°. At the same flow conditions of inflow angle and velocity, pressure distortions from an intake with a flat lip are overall higher than those of a bell-mouth round lip. This is primarily due to a rapid geometry change at the intake entrance causing large vortical flow motions, accompanied by local flow separations at higher inflow angles, therefore impacting the downstream flow field towards the engine inlet.
Tropospheric and Surface Measurements of Combustion Tracers During the 2021 Mediterranean Wildfire Crisis: Insights from the WMO/GAW Site of Lamezia Terme in Calabria, Southern Italy
Authors: D’Amico Francesco , De Benedetto Giorgia , Malacaria Luana , Sinopoli Salvatore , Calidonna Claudia Roberta , Gullì Daniel , Ammoscato Ivano , Lo Feudo Teresa
Published: February 2025

The central Mediterranean and nearby regions were affected by extreme wildfires during the summer of 2021. During the crisis, Türkiye, Greece, Italy, and other countries faced numerous challenges ranging from the near-complete destruction of landscapes to human losses. The crisis also resulted in reduced air quality levels due to increased emissions of pollutants linked to biomass-burning processes. In the Mediterranean Basin, observation sites perform continuous measurements of chemical and meteorological parameters meant to track and evaluate greenhouse gas and pollutant emissions in the area. In the case of wildfires, CO (carbon monoxide) and formaldehyde (HCHO) are effective tracers of this phenomenon, and the integration of satellite data on tropospheric column densities with surface measurements can provide additional insights on the transport of air masses originating from wildfires. At the Lamezia Terme (code: LMT) World Meteorological Organization–Global Atmosphere Watch (WMO/GAW) observation site in Calabria, Southern Italy, a new multiparameter approach combining different methodologies has been used to further evaluate the effects of the 2021 wildfires on atmospheric measurements. A previous study focused on wildfires that affected the Aspromonte Massif area in Calabria; in this study, the integration of surface data, tropospheric columns, and backtrajectories has allowed pinpointing additional contributions from other southern Italian regions, as well as North Africa and Greece. CO data were available for both surface and column assessments, while continuous HCHO data at the site were only available through satellite. In order to correlate the observed peaks with wildfires, surface BC (black carbon) was also analyzed. The analysis, which focused on July and August 2021, has allowed the definition of three case studies, each highlighting distinct sources of emission in the Mediterranean; the case studies were further evaluated using HYSPLIT backtrajectories and CAMS products. The LMT site and its peculiar local wind patterns have been demonstrated to play a significant role in the detection of wildfire outputs in the context of the Mediterranean Basin. The findings of this study further stress the importance of assessing the effects of wildfire emissions over wide areas.
Historical Evolution of the Salento Leccese Coastal Landscape (Southern Apulia, Italy)
Authors: Margiotta Stefano , Sansò Paolo
Published: February 2025

The Salento Leccese coast (southern Apulia, Italy) is marked both by primary and secondary coasts (cliffs and beaches); beaches, in particular, constitute about a quarter of the coastal perimeter. The Salento Leccese coast experienced dramatic change over the last two centuries due to natural and anthropic causes. This change was reconstructed through a geomorphological survey, historical cartography, and an aerial photo analysis. In particular, two case studies are described: the first one stretches along the Adriatic coast of the peninsula (Torre dell’Orso locality), and the second one is located along the Ionian coast (Torre Pali locality). For these coastal tracts, the main geomorphological features and the natural evolution that occurred during the Holocene are described, along with the anthropic modifications induced in the coastal landscape over the last two centuries. This study represents a useful knowledge background for coastal planners and decision makers, which will be utilized by the National Restoration Plans to be implemented in the near future, with the aim of restoring degraded ecosystems according to the recent Nature Restoration Law of the European Commission (2024).
Revealing Spatial Patterns and Environmental Influences on Jogging Volume and Speed: Insights from Crowd-Sourced GPS Trajectory Data and Random Forest
Authors: Yang Xiao , Zhang Chengbo , Yang Linzhen
Published: February 2025

Outdoor jogging plays a critical role in active mobility and transport-related physical activity (TPA), contributing to both urban health and sustainability. While existing studies have primarily focused on jogging participation volumes through survey data, they often overlook the real-time dynamics that shape jogging experiences. This study seeks to provide a data-driven analysis of both jogging volume and speed, exploring how environmental factors influence these behaviors. Utilizing a dataset of over 1000 crowd-sourced jogging trajectories in Shenzhen, we spatially linked these trajectories to road-section-level units to map the distribution of jogging volume and average speed. By depicting a bivariate map of both behavioral characteristics, we identified spatial patterns in jogging behavior, elucidating variations in the distribution of volume and speed. A random forest regression model was validated and employed to capture nonlinear relationships and assess the differential impacts of various environmental factors on jogging volume and speed. The results reveal distinct jogging patterns across the city, where jogging volume is shaped by the mixed interplay of natural, visual, and built environment factors, while jogging speed is primarily influenced by visual factors. Additionally, the analysis highlights nonlinear effects, particularly identifying a threshold beyond which incremental environmental improvements provide diminishing returns in jogging speed. These findings clarify the distinct roles of environmental factors in influencing jogging volume and speed, offering insights into the dynamics of active mobility. Ultimately, this study provides data-informed implications for urban planners seeking to create environments that support TPA and promote active lifestyles.
Improved Enzymatic Properties of Chitosanase CsnMY002 from Bacillus subtilis via Computational Design
Authors: Xie Jie , Liu Jingwei , Wang Si , Wang Ganggang
Published: February 2025

Chitooligosaccharides (COSs) are a class of functional carbohydrates with significant application prospects in food and medicine. Chitosanase CsnMY002 from the GH46 family has been used to prepare COS with controlled degrees of polymerization. To enhance the industrial applicability of CsnMY002, molecular dynamics (MD) simulations were applied to investigate the structure–property relationship. Guided by the simulation results, the beneficial mutants were screened through a synergistic strategy using a residue-folding free energy calculation and consensus sequence analysis. Iterative combinations constructed the mutant Mut6 (A49G/K70A/S84A/N89G/D199R/N221G) with significantly improved thermal stability, which had a half-life (t1/2 value) at 55 °C and 75 °C that was 1.80 and 1.62 times higher than that of the wild type, respectively. A highly active mutant, Mut2, was created, exhibiting a 1.52 times catalytic efficiency of the wild type. An MD simulation analysis of the mutants suggested that the improved enzymatic properties were highly correlated with changes in the dynamic behaviours of the enzyme structure. This study generated more suitable CsnMY002 variants for COS production and provided a comprehensive strategy for the optimization of other industrial enzymes with application potential.
Non-Robotic Endoscopic-Assisted Internal Mammary Artery Harvest—A Historical Review and Recent Advancements
Authors: Görtzen De Qing , Sampon Fleur , Ter Woorst Joost , Akca Ferdi
Published: February 2025

Background: The non-robotic endoscopic harvest of the internal mammary artery (IMA) facilitates minimally invasive bypass grafting while minimizing chest wall trauma. The technique was pioneered in the early 1990s and has recently regained popularity due to its accessibility and reproducibility. This review aims to provide an overview of endoscopic IMA harvest from its inception to the present. Methods: In August 2024, a literature search was performed using the electronic databases of the Cochrane Controlled Trials Register (CCTR) and PubMed. To obtain optimal search results, the keywords “thoracoscopic”, “endoscopic”, “minimally invasive”, “video-assisted”, “video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery VATS”, and “internal mammary artery” or “internal thoracic artery” were used, excluding the term “robotic”. References from the extracted articles were also reviewed to identify additional studies on endoscopic IMA harvest. Results: A total of 17 articles were included in the final analysis. Left internal mammary artery (LIMA) harvest times of between 17 and 164 min were reported, with an injury to LIMA rates between 0.7 and 2.2%. Conclusions: After a 15-year period without scientific publications, interest in the endoscopic-assisted approach has rekindled in recent years due to the reduction in chest trauma compared to direct vision harvest and the widespread availability of conventional endoscopic tools. This renewed focus underscores the potential to make minimally invasive coronary surgery available in all centers.
Minimally Invasive Rectal Surgery: Current Status and Future Perspectives in the Era of Digital Surgery
Authors: Goglia Marta , Pavone Matteo , D’Andrea Vito , De Simone Veronica , Gallo Gaetano
Published: February 2025

Over the past two decades, minimally invasive approaches in rectal surgery have changed the landscape of surgical interventions, impacting both malignant and benign pathologies. The dynamic nature of rectal cancer treatment owes much to innovations in surgical techniques, reflected in the expanding literature on available treatment modalities. Local excision, facilitated by minimally invasive surgery, offers curative potential for patients with early T1 rectal cancers and favorable pathologic features. For more complex cases, laparoscopic and robotic surgery have demonstrated significant efficacy and provided precise, durable outcomes while reducing perioperative morbidity and enhancing postoperative recovery. Additionally, advancements in imaging, surgical instrumentation, and enhanced recovery protocols have further optimized patient care. The integration of multidisciplinary care has also emerged as a cornerstone of treatment, emphasizing collaboration among surgeons, oncologists, and radiologists to deliver personalized, evidence-based care. This narrative review aims to elucidate current minimally invasive surgical techniques and approaches for rectal pathologies, spanning benign and malignant conditions, while also exploring future directions in the field, including the potential role of artificial intelligence and next-generation robotic platforms.
Efficacy and Safety of a Regimen for Medical Abortion up to 63 Days of Gestation: A Retrospective Study in Northern Greece
Authors: Kelesidou Vera , Tsakiridis Ioannis , Mitta Kyriaki , Virgiliou Andriana , Michos Georgios , Kougioumtsidou Anna , Mamopoulos Apostolos , Dagklis Themistoklis , Kalogiannidis Ioannis
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: First trimester medical abortion with the combination of mifepristone and misoprostol is highly effective. The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy and safety of a modified medical abortion protocol, offering a structured outpatient approach up to 9 weeks (63 days) of gestation. This study may contribute to existing evidence by evaluating a slightly altered regimen and its real-world effectiveness in clinical practice. Material and Methods: This was a retrospective cohort study conducted at the Third Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece, during a two-year period (2022–2024). Women aged 18 years or older with an intrauterine pregnancy ≤63 days confirmed by transvaginal ultrasound were included. Exclusion criteria included ectopic pregnancy, contraindications to study medications, or loss to follow-up. Mifepristone (200 mg) was administered orally on Day 1, and misoprostol (800 mcg) was administered vaginally on Day 3. Serial follow-up visits on Days 8, 15, and 21 were scheduled according to the success of each cycle. Results: In total, 130 women were included in the study. A high success rate of 96.9% (95% CI: 92.3–99.2%) was observed. Success was most frequently observed on Day 8 (60.8%). Success rates were 100% for the age group of 18 to 25 years, approximately 96% for both the groups of 26–35 and 36–45 years, and around 50% for those aged >45 years. With regards to gestational age, success rates were 97.5% for ≤7 weeks (49 days) and 95.9% for >7 weeks (p = 0.63). Side effects were reported by 13.2% of participants (95% CI: 7.8–20.1%) and mainly involved the gastrointestinal system. Pain intensity was reported as moderate; analgesics were used by 75.4% of patients. The satisfaction rate for the medical abortion process was 95.4% (95% CI: 90.2–98.3%). Conclusions: Early-first-trimester medical abortion on an outpatient basis is a feasible, patient-friendly method with high efficacy, exhibiting limited side effects and a high satisfaction rate.
Expanding the EVAR Pool with Non-IFU Patients: How Important is Subjective Physician Assessment?
Authors: Iner Hasan , Yurekli Ismail , Karaagac Erturk , Peker Ihsan , Tunca Nuri Utkan , Tellioglu Tahsin Murat , Durmaz Huseyin , Selcuk Hidayet Onur , Yilik Levent
Published: February 2025

Objectives: In order to reduce the abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA)-related complication rate in endovascular aneurysm repair (EVAR) procedures, manufacturers recommend following the instructions for use (IFU). However, IFU is considered too conservative in many centers. In this context, we present our experience and patient follow-up data with 248 consecutive patients with or without IFU eligibility. Methods: A total of 248 patients who underwent elective EVAR for AAA between 2014 and 2019 were included. In total, 190 patients were in the IFU group and 58 in the non-IFU group. Patients were evaluated for baseline demographic and anatomic data; unexpected periprocedural intervention; and postoperative data such as development of endoleaks during follow-up, need for re-intervention, development of complications, EVAR patency, and mean 5-year survival rate. Results: The patients did not differ in terms of basic demographic data. The basic anatomical data were suitable for the IFU standard. Intraoperative endoleak development was significantly higher in the non-IFU group. In addition, the development of endoleaks at any time, the need for re-intervention, and the development of complications were higher in the non-IFU group at postoperative follow-up. Survival analysis showed no difference in the mean 5-year follow-up. The EVAR patency rate was higher in the IFU group. Conclusions: We believe that the decision for a non-IFU EVAR should be patient-specific and that the results of the subjective medical assessment should definitely be taken into account. However, we should not forget that EVAR patients, especially non-IFU patients, are susceptible to future changes in the aorta and prone to the development of endoleaks and re-interventions.