bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Pacemaker Dependency After Heart Transplantation Is Associated with Permanent Pacemaker Implantation, Graft Failure and Mortality
Authors: Darche Fabrice F. , Heil Karsten M. , Rivinius Rasmus , Helmschrott Matthias , Ehlermann Philipp , Frey Norbert , Rahm Ann-Kathrin
Published: December 2024

Aims: Patients after heart transplantation (HTX) often experience post-transplant bradycardia, but little is known about the outcomes of early pacemaker dependency after HTX. We compared post-transplant mortality, graft failure, and the requirement for the permanent pacemaker implantation of patients with and without early pacemaker dependency after HTX. Methods: We screened all adult patients for early pacemaker dependency after HTX (defined as immediately after surgery) who underwent HTX at Heidelberg Heart Center between 1989 and 2022. Patients were stratified by diagnosis and type of early pacemaker dependency after HTX (sinoatrial or atrioventricular conduction disturbance). Results: A total of 127 of 699 HTX recipients (18.2%) had early pacemaker dependency after HTX, including 52 patients with sinoatrial conduction disturbances (40.9%) and 75 patients with atrioventricular conduction disturbances (59.1%). Patients with early pacemaker dependency after HTX showed both increased 1-year overall mortality after HTX (55.9% vs. 15.2%, p < 0.001) and higher mortality due to graft failure (25.2% vs. 4.2%, p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis revealed early pacemaker dependency after HTX (HR: 5.226, 95% CI: 3.738–7.304, p < 0.001) as an independent risk factor for 1-year mortality after HTX. Patients with early pacemaker dependency after HTX had a higher rate of 30-day (7.1% vs. 0.4%, p < 0.001) and 1-year (11.8% vs. 0.5%, p < 0.001) permanent pacemaker implantation after HTX compared to patients without early pacemaker dependency after HTX. Conclusions: Patients with early pacemaker dependency after HTX had a significantly higher rate of post-transplant mortality, graft failure, and the requirement for permanent pacemaker implantation.
Combined Penetrating Keratoplasty and Vitrectomy: Long-Term Follow-Up Results
Authors: Vidne-Hay Orit , Alhalel Amir , Barequet Irina S.
Published: December 2024

Purpose: To assess the long-term outcomes of combined penetrating keratoplasty (PKP) and pars plana vitrectomy (PPV). Methods: A retrospective review of eyes that underwent combined surgery followed for 12 months or longer. Demographic data, indications for surgery, and pre-/post-surgical eye examinations were retrieved. Results: Thirteen consecutive eyes (13 patients) were enrolled. The mean age was 51.5 ± 20.5 years, and the mean follow-up time was 67 ± 36.9 months. All cases had severe corneal opacity. Indications for surgery included retinal detachment (76.9%), dropped lens (7.7%), dropped intraocular lens (7.7%), and endophthalmitis with corneal abscess (7.7%). Visual acuity improved in 46.1% of the cases, though in most cases visual acuity remained low, and decreased in 23% of the cases. In 23% of the cases (3 eyes), ambulatory vision was achieved for more than 12 months and in 15.4% for three years. Silicone oil tamponade was used in all cases of retinal detachment (10 eyes). Of these eyes, at the final follow-up, four eyes were attached, two eyes were partially attached, and corneal opacity prevented retinal visualization in three eyes. One eye was eviscerated and one eye developed phthisis. Postoperatively, 61.5% of the cases underwent repeated PKP for graft decompensation. At the final visit, graft failure was observed in 75% of the cases. Conclusions: The long-term follow-up of eyes that underwent combined PKP and PPV supports this technique in complex cases for eye and vision preservation. The main problem after combined surgery is the long-term survival of the corneal graft which may require repeated PKP surgeries. With this approach, in 23% of the cases, ambulatory vision was maintained for more than 12 months.
The Predictive Role of Preoperative Malnutrition Assessment in Postoperative Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Surgery Due to Gastrointestinal Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Observational Study
Authors: Karanikki Eva , Frountzas Maximos , Lidoriki Irene , Kozadinos Alexandros , Mylonakis Adam , Tsikrikou Iliana , Kyriakidou Maria , Toutouza Orsalia , Koniaris Efthimios , Theodoropoulos George E. , Theodorou Dimitrios , Schizas Dimitrios , Toutouzas Konstantinos G.
Published: December 2024

Background: Malnutrition affects patients undergoing surgery for gastrointestinal cancers and contributes to poor postoperative outcomes, including increased complication rates, longer hospital stays, and higher mortality. Despite the availability of several malnutrition screening tools and prognostic scores, their effectiveness in predicting postoperative outcomes remains unclear. This study aimed to compare the predictive accuracy of Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA), Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM), Geriatric Nutritional Risk Index (GNRI), and Controlling Nutritional Status (CONUT) score for postoperative outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for colorectal, hepato-pancreato-biliary and upper gastrointestinal cancers. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study from March 2022 to October 2023 was conducted in two university surgical departments, after registration on ClinicalTrials database (NCT05795374). Patient characteristics, preoperative nutritional status and postoperative outcomes were analyzed. Results: In total, 480 patients were enrolled. CONUT and GNRI demonstrated high specificity (over 90% and 80%, respectively) for predicting overall complications, major complications, prolonged hospital stay, mortality, and advanced disease stage across all cancer types. Notably, CONUT showed a specificity over 97% and GNRI over 89.7% for colorectal and upper gastrointestinal cancer patients, respectively, despite their lower sensitivity. On the contrary, PG-SGA and GLIM presented better sensitivity (up to 50%), but slightly lower specificity (up to 86.4%). Conclusions: CONUT and GNRI are valuable for ruling out non-at-risk patients for adverse postoperative outcomes, while PG-SGA and GLIM provide better sensitivity. A step-up approach—initial screening with PG-SGA and GLIM, followed by detailed evaluation with CONUT or GNRI— should be validated in future studies across diverse clinical settings.
Effect of Alumina Proportion on the Microstructure and Technical and Mechanical Characteristics of Zirconia-Based Porous Ceramics
Authors: Shakir Rusul Ahmed , Géber Róbert , Mezher Marwan T. , Trzepieciński Tomasz , Móricz Ferenc
Published: December 2024

The current study investigates the process of preparing and analysing porous-structured ceramics made from zirconium, aluminium, and magnesium ceramic oxides. The starch consolidation casting (SCC) technique, with different types of starches (potato and tapioca), was used for this purpose. Our objective was to methodically examine the impact of different processing factors, such as the temperature at which pre-sintering and sintering occur, and the proportions of ceramic powders, on the microstructure, mechanical characteristics, and porosity of the resultant composites. Pre-sintering effectively reduced the rate of shrinkage during the final sintering stage; this resulted in more controlled and predictable shrinkage, leading to better dimensional stability and reduced risk of defects in the final product. A higher alumina content was associated with an increase in apparent porosity and a reduction in volume shrinkage and apparent densities. The mercury intrusion porosimetry (MIP) findings concluded that the prepared porous ceramics have a multi-modal pore structure. The highest calculated compressive strength was 76.89 MPa for a sample with a porous structure, which was manufactured using 20 wt.% tapioca starch and 30 wt.% alumina content. The main advantage of alumina is its ability to improve compressive strength by refining the grain structure and serving as a barrier against fracture development.
Impact of Hydraulic Resistance on Spatiotemporal Characteristics of Initial Six Steps When Sprinting Under Varying Loads
Authors: Sašek Matic , Leban Žiga , Kranjc Sara , Šarabon Nejc
Published: December 2024

Background: Evaluations of the usability of hydraulic resistance for resisted sprint-training purposes remains rare. Thus, this study compared step-by-step changes in spatiotemporal characteristics during the first 10 m of sprints with varying hydraulic resistance loads. Methods: Fourteen male athletes performed 20 m sprints under minimal (10 N, considered as normal sprint), moderate (100 N), and heavy (150 N) hydraulic resistance loads. Split times at 10 m, contact time (CT), step length (SL), flight time, and step speed (SS) from the first to the sixth step were measured. A two-way repeated measures ANOVA (load × step) and a one-way ANOVA (load) with post hoc comparisons were used to assess the effects on spatiotemporal characteristics and split times, respectively. Results: Under higher loads, the 10 m times were significantly longer (η2 = 0.79). The CT, SL, and SS varied significantly from step to step within all loads (η2 = 0.45, 0.41, and 0.54, respectively). The CT, SL, and SS of the first, fourth, fifth, and sixth steps of normal sprint differed significantly from most steps under moderate and heavy load (Cohen’s d = −3.09 to 5.39). In contrast, the smallest differences were observed between the second and third step of normal sprint and second to sixth steps under heavy load (Cohen’s d = −0.67 to 1.32, and −0.71 to 1.38, respectively). Conclusions: At the same load settings, a hydraulic resistance device induces changes in step characteristics comparable with those of other motorized devices and is therefore a viable option for resisted sprint training. If the goal of the training is to replicate the steps of the initial sprint acceleration phase, ~150 N of hydraulic resistance would be optimal.
Traffic Flow Theory for Waterway Traffic: Current Challenges and Countermeasures
Authors: Zhuang Siqing , Liu Yihua , Wang Weihao , Guo Shaojie , Ni Daiheng
Published: December 2024

Researchers are increasingly turning to roadway traffic flow theory to propose effective solutions for challenges such as traffic congestion and low efficiency in waterway transportation. However, since roadway traffic flow theory was originally developed for highway transportation, its direct application to waterways raises questions due to the inherent differences between the two modes of transportation. Meanwhile, research results and methodologies from other transportation modes can provide valuable insights for studying waterway traffic flow theory. Addressing these questions is essential for advancing research in this field. This research conducts a comparative analysis to explore the similarities and differences between typical transportation modes and waterway transportation, examining how these distinctions affect the application of existing traffic flow theories. It also categorizes recent research outcomes related to traffic flow theories from various transportation modes based on their relevance to waterway traffic flow theory. The discussion includes the applicability of these models and methods in the context of waterway transportation, considering the unique characteristics of waterway traffic. Finally, this study highlights current challenges in applying traffic flow theories to waterways and offers suggestions for future research.
Monsoon-Driven Dispersal of River-Sourced Floating Marine Debris in Tropical Semi-Enclosed Waters: A Case Study in the Gulf of Thailand
Authors: Phattananuruch Kittipong , Pokavanich Tanuspong
Published: December 2024

Marine debris (MD) causes significant threats to marine ecosystems. However, limited research addresses its transport of MD in tropical shallow semi-enclosed seas. This study applied a validated 3D hydrodynamic model and a particle tracking model to simulate the seasonal distribution of floating marine debris (FMD) originating from major river mouths in the vicinity of the Gulf of Thailand (GoT). The aim was to examine seasonal distribution patterns and variations influenced by sea surface circulation. Simulated particles were released every six hours from 12 river mouths and tracked over three years. Results revealed that seasonal currents drive the distribution of debris between the eastern and western regions, as well as its export and import across the gulf. The upper Gulf of Thailand (UGoT) exhibited the highest concentration of debris, with around 50% of the total released particles ending up onshore across the GoT, varying seasonally. An analysis showed that 74% of the debris released within the gulf remains there. Additionally, the GoT receives approximately 10% of the debris from rivers located outside its boundaries. Findings from this study suggest that the GoT, as an example of a tropical semi-enclosed sea, functions as both a sink and a source for FMD. These results could support the development of strategic seasonal cleanup frameworks, optimizing efforts during peak debris accumulation periods to enhance management efficiency. In addition, the mapping of debris distribution provides critical data for assessing and mitigating marine environmental impacts in the GoT.
Near-Inertial Oscillations of Thermocline in the Shelf Area off Vladivostok, the Sea of Japan, from a Set of Thermostrings
Authors: Trusenkova Olga , Yaroshchuk Igor , Kosheleva Alexandra , Samchenko Aleksandr , Pivovarov Alexander , Dubina Vyacheslav
Published: December 2024

The shelf area off Vladivostok in the Sea of Japan is known by the intense internal wave activity investigated for many years. The present contribution to these studies is based on data collected on 3–14 October 2022, from four moorings aligned across isobaths and equipped with thermostrings. Multivariate analysis is performed in the depth–time domain, while timescales and directions and speeds of temperature anomaly movement are estimated from wavelet transform. Approximately 50% of the variance results from vertical stratification changes, i.e., thermocline deepening or shoaling, and temperature anomalies on different timescales moved towards the shoaling seafloor. For the first time, near-inertial (NI) oscillations are detected throughout the record and turn out to be the most intense among the 6 to 70 h timescales, moving with the speeds of 0.41–0.55 m/s, although previous attention was paid to the semidiurnal internal tide. A frequency decrease, i.e., red shift, of the NI oscillations is detected towards shallower water, with the frequency eventually becoming subinertial, and is explained by anticyclonic relative vorticity at the eastern side of the mushroom-like structure detected from thermal satellite imagery. The semidiurnal and two-day oscillations were detected, moving with the speeds of 0.95–1.11 and 0.15–1.17 m/s, respectively. The two-day timescale, never reported before, is considered as a difference one caused by nonlinearity. These results are interpreted as the propagation of an internal wave generated at the steep slope offshore to the inner shelf.
Exploring the Role of Fibroblasts in Promoting Neuroblastoma Cell Migration and Invasion
Authors: Corallo Diana , Nardelli Cristina , Pantile Marcella , Menegazzo Sara , Biffi Alessandra , Aveic Sanja
Published: December 2024

Neuroblastoma, the most common pediatric extracranial solid tumor, arises from the malignant transformation of neural crest progenitors in the peripheral nervous system. Its clinical and genetic heterogeneity poses significant challenges, especially in high-risk patients with metastatic disease. Two plastic neuroblastoma cell phenotypes, adrenergic (ADR) and mesenchymal (MES), have been identified. Notably, MES neuroblastoma cells exhibit increased migration and chemoresistance. Cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) in the tumor microenvironment further promote tumor aggressiveness by enhancing cancer cell proliferation, extracellular matrix remodeling, angiogenesis and metastasis. This study explored the role of non-activated fibroblasts in ADR and MES neuroblastoma cell proliferation, migration and invasion in vitro and in vivo. Results showed that MES and ADR neuroblastoma cells influenced fibroblast activation into CAFs differently, with MES cells promoting a more invasive environment leading to tumor spread. These findings enhance our understanding of how ADR and MES phenotypes contribute to the formation of a pro-metastatic niche by activating fibroblasts in CAFs. This insight could inform new therapeutic strategies targeting the tumor microenvironment to prevent neuroblastoma metastasis.
Genome Sequencing and Metabolic Potential Analysis of Irpex lacteus
Authors: Wang Yue , Duan Yingce , Zhang Menghan , Liang Chaoqin , Li Wenli , Liu Chengwei , Ye Ying
Published: December 2024

Irpex lacteus is an edible and medicinal macrofungus with significant biological activity and broad pharmaceutical prospects that has received increasing attention in recent years. Although it is an important resource for macrofungi, knowledge of it remains limited. In this study, we sequenced, de novo assembled, and annotated the whole genome of I. lacteus using a PacBio Sequel II sequencer. The assembled 41.83 Mb genome contains 13,135 predicted protein-coding genes, 83.44% of which have searchable sequence similarity to other genes available in public databases. Using genome-based bioinformatics analysis, we identified 556 enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and 103 cytochrome P450 proteins. Genome annotation revealed genes for key enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, such as terpenoids and polyketides. Among them, we identified 14 terpene synthases, 8 NRPS-like enzymes, and 4 polyketide synthases (PKS), as well as 2 clusters of biosynthetic genes presumably related to terpene synthesis in I. lacteus. Gene family analysis revealed that the MYB transcription factor gene family plays an important role in the growth and development of I. lacteus. This study further enriches the genomic content of I. lacteus, provides genomic information for further research on the molecular mechanism of I. lacteus, and promotes the development of I. lacteus in the fields of drug research and functional food production.
Optimization of Ecosystem Service Bundles from a Trade-Off and Synergistic Perspective: A Case Study of Qinghai Province
Authors: Wu Qiwei , Gong Jian , Wu Shishi , Lin Jiasheng
Published: December 2024

Ecosystem services, encompassing the provision of food, water, air purification, climate regulation, and disease mitigation, form the bedrock upon which human well-being and socio-economic development are anchored. The preservation of these services is instrumental in safeguarding human survival and fostering progress. Qinghai Province, located on the Qinghai–Tibetan Plateau, holds a pivotal role as a crucial ecological barrier within China. The optimization of its ecosystem services is vital for the effective management of ecologically fragile areas. This study focuses on Qinghai Province. By integrating natural geographic, social, and Points of Interest (POI) big data, we utilized tools like InVEST, CASA, and advanced algorithmic optimizations to analyze ecosystem services and their trade-off synergies in Qinghai from 2000 to 2020. Based on these synergies, we developed a novel optimization algorithm to generate spatial bundles that amplify synergistic interactions while minimizing costs. Our findings indicate that the following: (1) Between 2000 and 2020, recreational services, water yield, and habitat quality in Qinghai Province generally exhibited an upward trend, whereas carbon sequestration showed a decline; (2) Notable synergies were evident between carbon sequestration and habitat quality and between recreation services and habitat quality. Conversely, significant trade-offs were observed between water yield and habitat quality and between water yield and cultural services, with these trade-off synergy effects varying markedly across different regions; (3) We constructed ecosystem service bundles characterized by “strong synergy–weak trade-off” based on these relationships. Following optimization, regions demonstrating significant synergies expanded, while those showing significant trade-offs contracted, thereby adapting to the ecological heterogeneity of high-altitude areas. This study advances the optimization of ecosystem service bundles in ecologically sensitive zones through a lens of trade-off synergies. The results offer a scientific foundation for formulating effective ecological protection and restoration strategies, providing valuable insights for ecosystem service research in other high-altitude regions globally.
Can’t Have Your Cake and Eat It Too? The Impact of Digital Infrastructure Construction on Urban Ecological Welfare Performance—A Quasi-Natural Experiment Based on the “Broadband China” Strategy
Authors: Yu Song , Liu Dong , Gao Jianzhong
Published: December 2024

Based on the panel data of 283 prefecture-level cities in China from 2010 to 2021, this paper takes the pilot policy of “Broadband China” as a natural experiment to evaluate the impact of digital infrastructure construction on urban ecological welfare performance and its mechanism by using a progressive difference–difference model. The results show that China’s digital infrastructure construction will significantly reduce the performance of urban ecological welfare. Through the analysis of input and output, it is found that the construction of digital infrastructure can significantly reduce resource consumption and increase welfare output, especially economic welfare, but at the level of environmental pollution, it will significantly increase the discharge of industrial wastewater, which may be the main reason for the negative effect of digital infrastructure construction. Through the group analysis, it is found that the overall negative impact of digital infrastructure construction on ecological welfare performance may be caused by the ecologically fragile western region and the unreasonable industrial structure. Through the adjustment model, it is found that innovation investment can positively regulate the negative impact of digital infrastructure on ecological welfare performance. The grey model (GM) is further used to forecast the data for 2022–2025, and it is found that while the negative impact of digital infrastructure is decreasing, it is still significant. This study provides empirical evidence for accurately understanding the effect and mechanism of digital infrastructure construction on ecological welfare performance.
Analysis of Spatiotemporal Variation Characteristics and Influencing Factors of Grassland Vegetation Coverage in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau from 2000 to 2023 Based on MODIS Data
Authors: Shi Xiankun , Yang Dong , Zhou Shijian , Li Hongwei , Zeng Siting , Yin Chen , Yang Mingxin
Published: December 2024

Changes in grassland fractional vegetation coverage (FVC) are important indicators of global climate change. Due to the unique characteristics of the Tibetan Plateau ecosystem, variations in grassland coverage are crucial to its ecological stability. This study utilizes the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform to retrieve long-term MODIS data and analyzes the spatiotemporal distribution of grassland FVC across the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau (QTP) over 24 years (2000–2023). The grassland growth index (GI) is used to evaluate the annual grassland growth at the pixel level. GI is an important indicator for measuring grassland growth status, which can effectively measure the changes in grassland growth in each year relative to the base year. FVC trends are monitored using Sen-Mann-Kendall slope estimation, the coefficient of variation, and the Hurst exponent. Geographic detectors and partial correlation analysis are then applied to explore the contribution rates of key driving factors to FVC. The results show: (1) From 2000 to 2023, FVC exhibited an overall upward trend, with an annual growth rate of 0.0881%. The distribution of FVC on the QTP follows a pattern of higher values in the east and lower values in the west; (2) Over the past 24 years, 54.05% of the total grassland area has shown a significant increase, 23.88% has remained stable, and only a small portion has shown a significant decrease. The overall trend is expected to continue with minimal variability, covering 82.36% of the total grassland area. The overall grassland GI suggests a balanced state of growth; (3) precipitation (Pre) and soil moisture (SM) are the main single factors affecting FVC changes in grasslands on the Tibetan Plateau (q = 0.59 and 0.46). In the interaction detection, in addition to the highest interaction between Pre and other factors, the interaction between SM and other factors also showed a significant impact on the changes in FVC of the QTP grassland; partial correlation analysis of hydrothermal factors and FVC of the QTP grassland. It shows that precipitation has a stronger correlation with QTP grassland FVC changes than temperature. This study has enhanced our understanding of grassland vegetation change and its driving factors on the QTP and quantitatively described the relationship between vegetation change and driving factors, which is of great significance for maintaining the sustainable development of grassland ecosystems.
Spatiotemporal Variation and Driving Mechanisms of the Global Production-Living-Ecological Space Coupling Coordination Degree
Authors: Li Weisong , Zeng Yi , Peng Yelin , Chen Wanxu , Dong Ying , Ye Ziyan , Chen Yan
Published: December 2024

The coupling coordination degree (CCD) of the production-living-ecological space (PLES) functional index is an indicator of regional sustainable development potential. However, previous studies have failed to reveal the driving mechanisms of the CCD of PLES functional index on a global scale. Therefore, this study employed the CCD model to evaluate the CCD of the PLES functional index and spatial regression models to measure the heterogeneous drivers using multi-source data in 2000, 2010, and 2020. The results demonstrated that ecological spaces dominated (85%) globally, while living spaces comprised the smallest share (3%). The ecological functional index was higher than the production and living functional indices. Further analyses revealed that topographic factors were the main restricting factors for PLES; the proportion of production and living spaces decreased with increasing altitude and slope, whereas ecological spaces showed the opposite trend. The global CCD values of the PLES functional index in 2000, 2010, and 2020 were 0.186, 0.189, and 0.198, respectively, showing an increasing trend. High CCD was generally observed in areas with dense population and industry where human activity systems interact with natural ecosystems. The formation of the CCD of the global PLES functional pattern results from the joint action of natural and socioeconomic factors, with pronounced spatial heterogeneity. Our findings can help optimize global territorial space utilization, improve territorial space utilization efficiency, and realize global sustainable development goals.
Assessing the Impacts of Urbanization and Climate Change on NPP Under Different Habitat Quality Conditions over the Last Two Decades in the Tibetan Plateau, China
Authors: Xia Tanlong , Han Liusheng , Ren Chen , Xu Qian , Zhang Dafu , Sun Guangwei , Feng Zhaohui
Published: December 2024

The processes of urbanization and climate change have exerted a marked influence on net primary productivity (NPP). However, the underlying mechanisms that drive these effects remain intricate and insufficiently understood. The processes of urbanization and climate change both have an adverse effect on habitat quality (HQ) and biodiversity loss. The HQ has a direct influence on the health and stability of ecosystems, which regulate the level of NPP. A higher HQ is associated with stronger NPP. Now, the quantification and assessment of the impacts of climate change and urbanization on NPP are still challenging because of the various driving factors and the intricate mechanisms influencing the production of terrestrial vegetation. Therefore, a new perspective was adopted to study the effects of urbanization and climate change on NPP in the Qinghai–Tibet Plateau in China during 2000–2020. The spatiotemporal analysis method was employed to investigate the impact of the night light urbanization index and climate factors on NPP in different HQ regions (the HQ is divided into five levels, with each area type corresponding to a specific HQ level). Then, the coupled coordination model (CCD) was used to analyze the coupling coordination relationship between NPP and HQ. Finally, the relative contribution of urbanization and climate change to NPP was studied using scenario simulation. The results showed that (1) NPP in the whole Tibetan Plateau increased very little, with an average growth rate of 0.42 g C m⁻2 per year. (2) It was surprising to find that NPP in urban areas did not decline significantly as a result of urbanization. However, there was a notable decline in NPP in higher HQ areas. (3) The mean contribution of urbanization to NPP change was found to be 17%, while the mean contribution of climate change and other factors to NPP change was 69% and 14%, respectively. These findings provide valuable insights into the interactions between human development and environmental factors, enhancing our comprehension of their role in the Tibetan Plateau’s carbon cycle.
Comparative Analysis of Gut Microbiota in Humans Living with and Without Companion Animals
Authors: Do Kyung-Hyo , Park Jiwon , Kim Nahee , Ryu Dahye , Kim Min-Gyu , Ahn Hyunjung , Kim Hakhyun , Hwang Jun-Gi , Park Min-Kyu , Seo Kwang-Won , Lee Wan-Kyu
Published: December 2024

Cohabitation with companion animals (CAs) has been suggested as a significant modifier of gut microbial diversity. This study investigated the influence of cohabitation with CAs on human gut microbiota composition. Using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, we analyzed the gut microbiota of 20 families with CAs (40 adults, 20 children) and 20 families without CAs (40 adults, 20 children). Alpha and beta diversity analyses were performed, and the differentially abundant genera were identified. There were significant differences in beta diversity across the groups (p-value = 0.001). The Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio was considerably lower in the CAs group (0.67) than in the without-CAs group (1.02). Prevotellaceae_UCG-003 (log2 fold change: 7.3; adjusted p-value ≤ 0.001), Ruminococcaceae (log2 fold change: 6.3; adjusted p-value ≤ 0.001), and Oscillospira (log2 fold change: 5.1; adjusted p-value = 0.012) were elevated in the group cohabiting with CAs, whereas Megamonas (with CAs: 3.81%; without CAs: 13.52%) and Veillonella (with CAs: 3.77%; without CAs: 6.50%) were more prevalent in the group without CAs. Cohabitation with CAs may positively influence the gut microbiota by promoting the presence of beneficial bacteria and reducing the Bacillota/Bacteroidota ratio. This study highlights the potential for cohabitation with CAs to promote gut microbial health.
Comparative Pacing Profile and Chronometric Performance in Elite Swimmers with Intellectual Impairments and Able-Bodied Athletes
Authors: Puce Luca , Zmijewsk Piotr , Bragazzi Nicola Luigi , Trompetto Carlo
Published: December 2024

Pacing strategy is a complex self-regulation process, crucial for optimising sports performance. Athletes with Intellectual Impairments (IIs) face unique challenges due to cognitive limitations that may hinder their ability to pace effectively, impacting chronometric performance. This study analysed the pacing profiles and chronometric performance across 253 event entries by elite swimmers with II, divided into three groups: 100 entries for group II1 (intellectual disability), 85 for group II2 (Down syndrome), and 68 for group II3 (autism spectrum disorder). These results were compared with 112 event entries from athletes without disabilities (AWDs). Data were collected from the 2023 Virtus Global Games and the 2023 World Aquatics Championships, focusing on middle-distance and long-distance events. Performance metrics were assessed using 50 m split times, and within-group variability was evaluated through coefficients of variation. Swimmers with IIs showed slower overall chronometric performance than AWDs, with the largest deficits observed in II2 athletes. The II1 and II3 groups displayed more comparable results, with the II1 group outperforming the others slightly. Despite the slower times, pacing profiles were largely similar across all groups, following a parabolic pacing strategy, especially for longer distances. Greater within-group variability in both chronometric performance and pacing profiles was observed in II2 and II3 athletes, reflecting higher functional heterogeneity. In contrast, II1 athletes, and even more so AWDs, exhibited more consistent performance and pacing across all events. While swimmers with II recorded slower times, their pacing strategies resembled those of AWDs, suggesting that cognitive limitations may not significantly impair pacing regulation in swimming. However, the higher variability in II2 and II3 athletes highlights the potential need for revised classification systems to ensure fair competition.
Transforming Agricultural and Sulfur Waste into Fertilizer: Assessing the Short-Term Effects on Microbial Biodiversity via a Metagenomic Approach
Authors: Maffia Angela , Scotti Riccardo , Wood Thomas , Muscolo Adele , Lepore Alessandra , Acocella Elisabetta , Celano Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Fungi and soil bacteria are vital for organic matter decomposition and biogeochemical cycles, but excessive synthetic fertilizer use contributes to soil degradation and loss of biodiversity. Despite this, about 97% of soil microorganisms are unculturable, making them difficult to study. Metagenomics offers a solution, enabling the direct extraction of DNA from soil to uncover microbial diversity and functions. This study utilized metagenomics to analyze the rhizosphere of two-year-old Tonda di Giffoni hazelnut saplings treated with synthetic NPK, composted olive pomace, and an innovative fertilizer derived from sulfur-based agro-industrial waste stabilized with bentonite clay. Using 16S rDNA for bacteria and ITS2 for fungi, Illumina sequencing provided insights into microbial responses to different fertilizer treatments. The results highlighted a significant increase in the abundance of beneficial microorganisms such as Thiobacillus, Pseudoxanthomonas, and Thermomyces, especially when organic materials were included. Additionally, microbial biodiversity improved with organic inputs, as shown by increased species richness (Chao1) and diversity (Bray-Curtis) greater than 20% compared with NPK and unfertilized soils (CTR). These findings emphasize the importance of organic fertilization in enhancing soil microbial health, offering a sustainable approach to improving soil quality and hazelnut productivity.
Synthesis and Characterization of Hydrazine Bridge Cyclotriphosphazene Derivatives with Amide–Schiff Base Linkages Attached to Decyl and Hydroxy Terminal Groups
Authors: Mohamad Fazli Fatin Junaidah , Jamain Zuhair
Published: December 2024

New cyclotriphosphazene derivatives featuring amide–Schiff base linkages with a hydrazine bridge and different terminal ends, such as decyl alkyl chains and hydroxy groups, were successfully synthesized and characterized. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), and CHN elemental analysis were used to characterize the structures of these compounds. The formation of hydrazine-bridged cyclotriphosphazene derivatives with amide–Schiff base linkages was confirmed by the FTIR spectra, showing a primary amine band for the amide linkage around ~3300 cm−1 and a band for the Schiff base linkage near ~1595 cm−1. This was further supported by NMR analysis, which displayed an amide proton (H-N-C=O) at ~δ 10.00 ppm and an azomethine proton (H-C=N) within the δ 8.40–8.70 ppm range. The 31P NMR spectra of cyclotriphosphazene compounds display a singlet at ~δ 8.20 ppm, indicating an upfield shift that suggests the complete substitution of all phosphorus atoms with identical side chains. Furthermore, CHN analysis verified the purity of the synthesized compounds, with a percentage error below 2%. The introduction of hydrazine bridges and amide–Schiff base linkages into the cyclotriphosphazene core significantly enriches the molecular structure with diverse functional groups. These modifications not only improve the compound’s stability and reactivity, but also expand its potential for a wide range of applications.
An Efficient Strength Evaluation Method Based on Shell-Fastener Model for Large Hybrid Joint Structures of C/SiC Composites
Authors: Fu Maoqing , Chen Jiapeng , Wang Ben , Wang Biao
Published: December 2024

C/SiC composites are widely used in aerospace thermal structures. Due to the high manufacturing complexity and cost of C/SiC composites, numerous hybrid joints are required to replace large and complex components. The intricate contact behavior within these hybrid joints reduces the computational efficiency of damage analysis methods based on solid models, limiting their effectiveness in large-scale structural design. According to the structure characteristic, a fractal contact stiffness model considering bonded behaviors is established in this paper. By introducing this model, it is proved that the bonded layer can affect the interface strength between plates but not the bearing strength of the specimen for the bolt/bonded hybrid joint structure. Furthermore, by introducing the strength envelope method, this paper overcomes the problem wherein the shell-fastener model cannot accurately describe the complex stress field. Validation through experimental comparison confirms that this approach can accurately predict both the failure mode and strength of multi-row hybrid joint structures in C/SiC composites at a detailed level with an error of 5.4%, including the shear failure of bolts. This method offers a robust foundation for the design of large-scale C/SiC composite structures.
Optimization of Turning of Inconel 625 to Improve Surface Quality After Finishing Process
Authors: Machno Magdalena , Zębala Wojciech , Franczyk Emilia
Published: December 2024

The process of machining the modern engineering materials, such as nickel-based superalloys, still requires improvement. This paper focuses on comparing the turning process of Inconel 625 superalloy using three types of cutting inserts to obtain the finishing process. The influence of cutting data, such as cutting speed, feed rate, and cutting depth, on the machined surface quality, surface quality were selected. The novelty of the research, described in the article, is the optimization of the machining of Inconel 625 by using the stepwise selection of parameters. The most important issue is that the stepwise method can be used in industry, where increasingly new nickel-chromium materials with more specific strength properties are used for parts.
Experimental Evaluation of Concrete Blended with Eco-Friendly Bio-Sulfur as a Cement Replacement Material
Authors: Kim Wonchang , Kim Taehyung , Lee Taegyu
Published: December 2024

Bio-sulfur (BS), extracted from landfill bio-gas via microbial methods, was examined herein as a potential cement replacement material. The study developed five modified BS variants through limestone incorporation processes (sulfur-to-limestone ratios of 1:0.5, 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:3, and 1:5). The study revealed that modified BS with higher limestone ratios demonstrates significant workability and strength reductions of over 50% with increased content, leading to the adoption of a sulfur-to-limestone ratio of 1:1. The concrete specimens exhibited compressive strength improvements of up to 12% with increased BS content, while the UPV showed proportional increases with increased BS content that remained independent of the water/binder (W/B) ratio. Statistical analysis confirmed significance with p-values below 0.05. XRD analysis identified initial cement hydrate peaks at 3 d that evolved into distinct Mg-S hydrate and Ca-Al-S hydrate formations in the BS-containing specimens by 28 d.
Perovskite in Triboelectric Nanogenerator and the Hybrid Energy Collection System
Authors: Wu Tong , Zhao Zequan , Lu Yin , Yang Hanzhang , Liu Xiaoning , Cao Xia , Wang Ning
Published: December 2024

In the context of escalating energy demands and environmental sustainability, the paradigm of global energy systems is undergoing a transformative shift to innovative and reliable energy-harvesting techniques ranging from solar cells to triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) to hybrid energy systems, where a fever in the study of perovskite materials has been set off due to the excellent optoelectronic properties and defect tolerance features. This review begins with the basic properties of perovskite materials and the fundamentals of TENGs, including their working principles and general developing strategy, then delves into the key role of perovskite materials in promoting TENG-based hybrid technologies in terms of energy conversion. While spotlighting the coupling of triboelectric–optoelectronic effects in harnessing energy from a variety of sources, thereby transcending the limitations inherent to single-source energy systems, this review pays special attention to the strategic incorporation of perovskite materials into TENGs and TENG-based energy converting systems, which heralds a new frontier in enhancing efficiency, stability, and adaptability. At the end, this review highlights the remaining challenges such as stability, efficiency, and functionality for applications in TENG-based energy-harvesting systems, aiming to provide a comprehensive overview of the current landscape and the prospective trajectory of the role of perovskite materials in TENG-based energy-harvesting technologies within the renewable energy sector.
Improved Method for the Calculation of the Air Film Thickness of an Air Cushion Belt Conveyor
Authors: Song Bo , Chen Hongliang , Sun Long , Xu Kunpeng , Ren Xiaoyong
Published: December 2024

The air film thickness is an important parameter of an air cushion belt conveyor, which directly affects the compressed air supply power and operating resistance of the system. Therefore, it is important to calculate the bottom thickness of the gas film accurately in the design stage. A calculation method for the thickness of a conveyor air cushion was derived based on the mathematical model of the air cushion flow field for a multi row uniformly distributed air cushion structure. Meanwhile, the algorithm was validated based on a Fluent 3D flow field numerical simulation and experiments. Through verification, it was found that due to the algorithm’s assumption that the increase in the gas flow rate only existed at the axis of the gas hole, there was a sudden change in the calculation results of the gas flow rate at the axis of the gas hole. The sudden change in the gas flow rate had caused the calculation results of the air cushion thickness to experience abrupt and discontinuous changes. Furthermore, the calculation method for air cushion thickness was revised based on the verification results. Compared with the experimental test results, the average error of the calculation results of the algorithm proposed in this paper was 14.27%.
Effect of Vanadium Addition on the Wear Resistance of Al0.7CoCrFeNi High-Entropy Alloy
Authors: Tokarewicz Marzena , Gradzka-Dahlke Malgorzata , Nowak Wojciech J. , Gradzik Andrzej , Szala Miroslaw , Walczak Mariusz
Published: December 2024

High-entropy alloys are of interest to many researchers due to the possibility of shaping their functional properties by, among other things, the use of alloying additives. One approach to improving the wear resistance of the AlCoCrFeNi alloy is modification through the addition of titanium. However, in this study, an alternative solution was explored by adding vanadium, which has a completely different effect on the material’s structure compared to titanium. The effect of vanadium additives on changes in the microstructure, hardness, and wear resistance of the Al0.7CoCrFeNi alloy. The base alloys Al0.7CoCrFeNi and Al0.7CoCrFeNiV0.5 were obtained by induction melting. The results showed that the presence of vanadium changes the microstructure of the material. In the case of the base alloy, the structure is biphasic with a visible segregation of alloying elements between phases. In contrast, the Al0.7CoCrFeNiV0.5 alloy has a homogeneous solid solution bcc structure. The presence of vanadium increased hardness by 33%, while it significantly reduced friction wear by 73%. Microscopic observations of friction marks indicate differences in the wear mechanisms of the two materials.
Simulation and Analysis of Double Compound CAM Pusher Tool Changing Mechanism for NC Machine Tool
Authors: Zhang Xinbo , Zhang Xiaobing , Wang Xigui , Lai Zhongping , Zhu Wenxue , Zhang Yujie
Published: December 2024

The core mechanism of existing CNC tool changers is typically a single composite cam swinging rod linkage. This setup has two main drawbacks: amplified vibration errors and high impact forces due to the swinging rod. To address these, this study focuses on CNC tool changers, specifically selecting the up-and-down motion follower and proposing a novel double composite cam push rod type mechanism. Solid modeling for both mechanisms was conducted using Creo and Matlab, and theoretical modeling of the contact forces for each follower type was completed. Comparative analysis shows the push rod follower exhibits lower contact forces than the swinging rod. Using the Adams platform, the dynamic characteristics of both mechanisms were analyzed, leading to an optimized design for the push rod type. An experimental model, scaled to 0.5, was built to compare experimental data with simulation results. The findings verify the accuracy of the models, supporting the feasibility of the push rod type tool changer.
Lower Limb Joint Angle Prediction Based on Multistream Signaling and Quantile Regression, Temporal Convolution Network–Bidirectional Long Short-Term Memory Network Neural Network
Authors: Wang Leilei , Wang Yunxue , Guo Fei , Yan Hao , Zhao Feifei
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the increasing number of patients with spinal cord injuries, strokes, and lower limb disabilities has led to the gradual development of rehabilitation-assisted exoskeleton robots. A critical aspect of these robots is their ability to accurately sense human movement intentions to achieve smooth and natural control. This paper describes research carried out on predicting the motion angles of human lower limb joints. Based on the design of a signal acquisition system for physiological muscle signals and inertial measurement unit (IMU) data, a hybrid neural network prediction model (QRTCN-BiLSTM) and a single neural network prediction model (QRBiLSTM) were constructed using quantile regression, temporal convolution network (TCN) and bidirectional long short-term memory network (BiLSTM), respectively. At the same time, 7-channel surface electromyographic signals (sEMG) and 12-channel IMU data from hip and knee joints were collected and input into the QRBiLSTM and QRTCN-BiLSTM models to unfold the training and analyze the comparison. The results show that the QRTCN-BiLSTM model can more accurately infer human movement intention and provide a more reliable and accurate prediction tool for human–robot interaction research in rehabilitation robotics.