bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Imaging based artificial intelligence for predicting lymph node metastasis in cervical cancer patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jiang Chu-Qian , Li Xiu-Juan , Zhou Zhi-Yi , Xin Qing , Yu Lin
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This meta-analysis was conducted to assess the diagnostic performance of artificial intelligence (AI) based on imaging for detecting lymph node metastasis (LNM) among cervical cancer patients and to compare its performance with that of radiologists.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science to identify relevant studies published up to October 2024. The search followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses of Diagnostic Test Accuracy (PRISMA-DTA) guidelines. Studies evaluating the accuracy of AI models in detecting LNM in cervical cancer through computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) were included. Pathology served as the reference standard for validation. A bivariate random-effects model was employed to estimate pooled sensitivity and specificity, both presented alongside 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Bias was assessed with the revised Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies-2 (QUADAS-2) tool. Study heterogeneity was examined through the I2 statistic. Meta-regression was conducted when significant heterogeneity (I2 > 50%) was observed.

Results

A total of 23 studies were included in this meta-analysis. The quality and bias of the included studies were acceptable. However, substantial heterogeneity was observed among the included studies. Internal validation sets comprised 23 studies and 1,490 patients. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and the area under the curve (AUC) for detecting LNM in cervical cancer were 0.83 (95% CI: 0.78-0.87), 0.78 (95% CI: 0.74-0.82) and 0.87 (95% CI: 0.84-0.90), respectively. External validation sets comprised six studies and 298 patients. The pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC for detecting LNM were 0.70 (95% CI: 0.56-0.81), 0.85 (95% CI: 0.66-0.95) and 0.76 (95% CI: 0.72-0.79), respectively. For radiologists, eight studies and 644 patients were included; the pooled sensitivity, specificity, and AUC for detecting LNM were 0.54 (95% CI: 0.42-0.66), 0.79 (95% CI: 0.59-0.91) and 0.65 (95% CI: 0.60-0.69), respectively.

Conclusions

Imaging-based AI demonstrates higher diagnostic performance than radiologists. Prospective studies with rigorous standardization as well as further research with external validation datasets, are necessary to confirm the results and assess their practical clinical applicability.

Systematic Review Registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO, identifier CRD42024607074.
Application of the intelligent interactive system to promote the full course care of very low birth weight infants
Authors: Xie Namei , Ye Ruming , Chen Yuying , Lin Ying , Huang Xianghui , Zhuang Deyi
Published: February 2025

Aim

To explore the effects of full course care with an intelligent interactive system on the growth, neurodevelopment and follow up adherence of very low birth weight infants (VLBW), as well as parental satisfaction.

Methods

The preterm infants admitted between January 2022 and December 2022 were designated as the experimental group, while those admitted from January 2021 to December 2021 constituted the control group. The experimental group received a full course of care through an intelligent interactive system, whereas the control group received inpatient and follow-up care from primary and clinic nurses, respectively. We compared the two groups' parental satisfaction at discharge, infants' anthropometric assessments, follow-up adherence, and infant's neurodevelopment.

Results

From January 1, 2021, to December 31, 2022, 171 VLBWI and their parents were enrolled at a tertiary hospital, with 89 infants in the experimental group and 82 in the control group. Parental satisfaction in the experimental group was significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.05). At the corrected ages of 1, 3, and 6 months, the height and weight of the preterm infants in the experimental group were also superior to those of the control group (P < 0.05). Additionally, the follow-up adherence rate of the experimental group exceeded that of the control group at the corrected ages of 3 and 6 months (P < 0.05). Furthermore, at the corrected age of 6 months, the scores for fine motor skills, adaptability, and social interaction of infants in the experimental group were higher than those in the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

An intelligent interactive system can facilitate comprehensive management of VLBWI by integrating inpatient care and follow-up. This approach has significant clinical value as it promotes the physical and cognitive development of infants while enhancing parent satisfaction and adherence.
Can foliar application of soluble monoammonium phosphate effectively alleviate herbicide-induced oxidative stress in key crops?
Authors: Viveiros Josiane , Moretti Luiz Gustavo , Alves Filho Israel , Pacola Marcela , Jacomassi Lucas Moraes , Rodrigues Vitor Alves , Jamal Amine , Bossolani João William , Portugal José Roberto , Carbonari Caio Antonio , Crusciol Carlos Alexandre Costa
Published: February 2025

Phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) directly impact final crop productivity by playing essential roles in photosynthesis, ATP formation, carbon assimilation, cell division, and transport. Compared with nutrient application to soil, the nutrients are applied directly to leaves provides a faster response because the nutrients enter plant metabolism more quickly. Foliar fertilization with nutritional supplements can intend to increase crop yields, and little is known about its ability to reduce oxidative stress. This study evaluated the effects of foliar fertilization on crop recovery from phytotoxicity induced by herbicide exposure. Phytotoxicity was induced in soybean, maize, and cotton plants by applying the herbicide carfentrazone-ethyl (at V3, V3 and V4 growth stages, respectively), which induces the accumulation of reactive oxygen species in the cytoplasm, leading to membrane rupture and the appearance of chlorotic spots on leaves. Phytotoxicity induction was followed by the foliar application of monoammonium phosphate (MAP) as a source of N and P. Leaf nutrient content, gas exchange performance, pigment content, photosynthetic enzyme activity, antioxidant metabolism, oxidative stress, proline content, metabolite content, and biometric parameters were evaluated. MAP supplementation increased chlorophyll content, and RuBisCO activity by up to 20.5% (maize) and 16.2% (cotton), respectively, resulting in higher net photosynthetic rates (26.3%; cotton), stomatal conductance (45.7%; cotton), water use efficiency (35.6%; cotton), and carboxylation efficiency (45%; cotton). The activities of antioxidant enzymes also increased, and the concentrations of oxidative stress indicators decreased (H2O2: 33.7% and MDA: 28.3%; soybean). Furthermore, the productivity of all three crops increased, suggesting that foliar application of MAP is an efficient strategy for attenuating phytotoxicity symptoms in crops.
Transcriptomic analysis of two Chinese wheat landraces with contrasting Fusarium head blight resistance reveals miRNA-mediated defense mechanisms
Authors: Wu Lijuan , Wang Junqiang , Shen Shian , Yang Zaijun , Hu Xinkun
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Fusarium head blight (FHB), caused primarily by Fusarium graminearum (Fg), poses a significant threat to wheat production. It is necessary to deeply understand the molecular mechanisms underlying FHB resistance in wheat breeding.

Methods

In this study, the transcriptomic responses of two Chinese wheat landraces—Wuyangmai (WY, resistant) and Chinese Spring (CS, susceptible)—to F. graminearum infection were examined using RNA sequencing (RNA-seq). Differential expression of mRNAs, long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), circular RNAs (circRNAs), and microRNAs (miRNAs) was analyzed at 3 and 5 days post-Fg inoculation (dpi).

Results

The results showed that WY exhibited a targeted miRNA response, primarily modulating defense-related pathways such as glutathione metabolism and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, which are crucial for oxidative stress regulation and pathogen defense response. In contrast, CS displayed a broader transcriptional response, largely linked to general metabolic processes rather than immune activation. Notably, the up-regulation of genes involved in oxidative stress and immune defense in WY confirmed its enhanced resistance to FHB. The integrated analysis of miRNA-mRNA interactions highlighted miRNAs as central regulators of defense mechanisms in WY, particularly at later stages of infection. These miRNAs targeted genes involved in immune responses, while lncRNAs and circRNAs played a more limited role in the regulation of defense responses. The GO and KEGG pathway enrichment analyses further revealed that WY enriched for plant-pathogen interaction and secondary metabolite biosynthesis pathways, which are crucial for pathogen resistance. In contrast, CS prioritized metabolic homeostasis, suggesting a less effective defense strategy.

Discussion

Overall, this study underscores the critical role of miRNA-mediated regulation in FHB resistance in WY. These insights into miRNA-mediated regulatory mechanisms provide a molecular basis for breeding FHB-resistant wheat varieties and highlight miRNA-mRNA interactions as promising targets for enhancing disease resilience.
Untargeted flower volatilome profiling highlights differential pollinator attraction strategies in muscadine
Authors: Darwish Ahmed G. , Das Protiva R. , Olaoye Eniola , Gajjar Pranavkumar , Ismail Ahmed , Mohamed Ahmed G. , Tsolova Violeta , Hassan Nasser A. , El Kayal Walid , Walters Kellie J. , El-Sharkawy Islam
Published: February 2025

Floral aromas are a mixture of volatile organic compounds, essential attributes associated with the attraction of different pollinators. This investigation is the first in-depth exploration of the volatile profiles of sixteen muscadine grape genotypes, producing female and perfect flowers using the headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME)-GC-MS-based untargeted volatilomics approach. A total of one hundred fifty volatile metabolites were identified in the muscadine flower genotypes, including the functional groups of hydrocarbons, esters, alcohols, ketones, aldehydes, miscellaneous, and acids. Multivariate statistical analysis for volatile terpenes revealed eleven bio-marker terpene volatiles that primarily distinguish between female and perfect flowers. The β-elemene, β-bisabolene, and α-muurolene were the marker volatiles characterizing perfect flowers; however, α-selinene, (Z,E)-α-farnesene, and (E,E)-geranyl linalool were the typical marker terpene in the female flowers. Perfect flowers exhibited better pollinator attraction capacity associated with a higher number of flowers per inflorescence, enhanced pollinator rewards, and higher numbers and quantities of terpene volatiles than female flowers, resulting in superior pollinator attraction capacity and fruit set efficiency. The pollinator attraction mechanism of female flowers exhibited several morphological and biochemical floral defects, causing random pollinator visits and low fruit set efficiency. The controlled pollination assay could express female flowers’ full fruit set capabilities by avoiding casual insect pollination. This comprehensive study suggests that these marker terpenes might contribute to pollinator attraction in muscadine flower genotypes and should be considered an excellent reference for agroecosystem ecologists and entomologists.
State capacity and growth in Sub-Saharan Africa: a dynamic panel examination of the pillars of prosperity
Authors: Adaid Felipe A. P. , Banda Lloyd George , Chirwa Joseph Amazuwa , Chidzanja Chikondi , Mavhura Bathromeu
Published: February 2025

This paper investigates Smith's triumvirate hypothesis that peace, easy taxes, and a tolerable administration of justice inclusively constitute what a state requires to attain the highest degree of economic prosperity. First, the paper constructed a single index of Smith's triumvirate through a principal component analysis (PCA). Then, data analysis using a two-step difference GMM technique was conducted, with results confirming the hypothesis in Sub-Saharan Africa.
Democratic resilience or retreat? A cross-area analysis
Authors: Berg-Schlosser Dirk
Published: February 2025

Forms of democratic backsliding can be observed in many parts of the world. However, some conclusions are overly sweeping or alarmist. A detailed case-based regional analysis reveals distinct patterns in this regard. This study highlights some recent findings from a longitudinal international research project, the Transformation Research Initiative “(TRI), which is now based at the Center for Research on Democracy (CREDO) at Stellenbosch University, South Africa. The project involves country and regional experts from all major world areas. The results presented here are derived from the Varieties of Democracy “(V-Dem) data at the macro level, World Values Surveys” (WVS) data on the micro level, and selected case studies. Only a few key findings can be presented here. For a detailed account, see van Beek (ed., 2022).
Peace ontologies, narratives, and epistemes among indigenous communities of Nigeria and Bolivia
Authors: Adegoke Damilola , Alvarez Gloriana Rodriguez
Published: February 2025

This study examines Indigenous peace ontologies and epistemologies among Nigerian and Bolivian communities, specifically the Yoruba, Ukwu-Nzu, Ubang, and Aymara cultures, to explore peace conceptual transformations through colonial and historical experiences. Conceptual representations and knowledge production are shaped by power dynamics that mainly marginalize Indigenous epistemic experiences, often erasing or replacing traditional ways of knowing with dominant, typically colonial ideologies. Using a qualitative cross-cultural exploratory approach—including semi-structured interviews, focus groups, and observations—the study reveals peace conceptualizations rooted in cosmological, historical, communal, and ecological frameworks. The Yoruba perceive peace as equilibrium mediated by Òrìṣà and personal agency, while the Aymara understand peace through suma qamaña— “living well” in harmony with Pachamama. Both perspectives emphasize collective well-being, relational ethics, and historical resilience. The study also examines the influence of Islam on Yoruba peace semiotics by reconstructing pre-Islamic peace terms in Lukumi, a Yoruboid language of the Ukwu-Nzu people, and explores gendered linguistic variations in peace conceptualization through the Ubang culture, where men and women speak mutually unintelligible languages. By critiquing universalist assumptions, the study advocates for decolonial methodologies that integrate Indigenous epistemes into broader scholarly discourses, fostering inclusive and pluralistic understandings of peace.
Cultural diversity in beliefs regarding mental illness: comparison of Indonesian Muslims, Indonesian Christians, and Japanese non-religions
Authors: Tanaka Shiho , Maulina Venie Viktoria Rondang , Shanti Theresia Indira , Prabowo Medwin Wisnu
Published: February 2025

A majority of Indonesians, approximately 90% of them, are Muslims and have been reported to religiously cope with symptoms of mental illness. This may depend on the degree of recognition of Western medicine and attribution to biological factors; however, this has not been adequately investigated. To avoid clinical bias, it is vital to understand the underlying mechanism. Hence, this study aims to determine the relationship between depression recognition, causal attributions, and coping behaviors among Indonesian Muslims using a quantitative approach. To capture the salient features of Indonesian Muslims, they were compared with Japanese non-religions and Indonesian Christians. We also developed new causal attribution and coping behavior scales that are culturally valid for both Indonesia and Japan. Specifically, in Study 1, we first examined the demographic details of the participants and then developed the scales. In Study 2, we compared Indonesian Muslims, Japanese non-religions, and Indonesian Christians in terms of relationships between recognizing depression, causal attributions, and coping behaviors. Participants were university students around the capital of both countries: 236 Indonesian Muslims (182 females), 493 Japanese non-religions (365 females), and 266 Indonesian Christians (180 females). In Study 1, religiosity was the only demographic characteristic that saliently differed between the 3 groups. Both the causal attribution and coping behavior scales were adequate for use in Study 2. In Study 2, the results of structural equation modeling revealed that the relationships between depression recognition, causal attributions, and coping behaviors differed among Indonesian Muslims, Japanese non-religions, and Indonesian Christians. More specifically, amongst Indonesian Muslims, the level of depression recognition had a marginally significant positive influence on religious attribution, which in turn had a significant positive influence on evil dispelling. However, Japanese non-religions and Indonesian Christians showed no association between the recognition of depression and religious attribution. These results suggests that the three groups may have different beliefs about depression.
A moderated mediation model in assessing links between rumination, emotional reactivity, and suicidal risk in alcohol use disorder
Authors: Wojtczak Mateusz , Karasiewicz Karol , Kucharska Katarzyna
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Suicide is a major public health concern, particularly among people with alcohol use disorders (AUD). Rumination, as a dysfunctional emotion regulation strategy, and increased emotional reactivity may significantly influence suicide risk in this population.

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess whether different emotional reactivity mediate the association between ruminations and suicide risk, and whether AUD or control group (HC) status moderates these relationships.

Methods

A study was conducted with 152 participants, including 86 from AUD and 66 from HC. Self-report questionnaires measuring ruminations, emotional reactivity and suicide risk were used. Structural Equation Modeling, invariance analysis, and moderated mediation estimation were used in the analyses.

Results

The mediation analysis in the full sample revealed a significant indirect effect of rumination on suicide risk via emotional reactivity. Multi-group analysis indicated no significant differences in the mediation effect between the AUD and HC groups, with neither group showing a statistically significant indirect effect.

Conclusions

The findings indicate that emotional reactivity may serve as a key mechanism mediating the relationship between rumination and suicide risk. Therapeutic interventions should focus on reducing ruminations and emotion reactivity to effectively reduce suicide risk in this group. Further research is needed to better understand these mechanisms.
Risk prediction model of physical frailty for a rural older population: a cross-sectional study in Hunan Province, China
Authors: Guo Xiuyan , Shi Chunhong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Physical frailty is a common medical syndrome characterized by low muscle strength, low endurance, and reduced physiological function that leads to significantly negative health outcomes in older adults. This study investigated the risk variables among rural older adults in Hunan Province, China, and developed a physical frailty prediction model to inform policymaking to enhance their health and well-being.

Methods

This study was conducted from July 22 to September 3, 2022. A total of 291 participants were recruited using stratified cluster random sampling from five large villages in Hunan Province. Frailty screening was performed based on the Fatigue, Resistance, Ambulation, Illnesses, and Loss of Weight (FRAIL) scale, Geriatric Depression Scale 15-item version (GDS-15), Falls Efficacy Scale-International (FES-I), and Mini Nutrition Assessment-Short Form (MNA-SF). A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the predictive factors for physical frailty and develop a physical frailty prediction model based on the area under the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve (AUC), sensitivity, specificity, and Youden index.

Results

The physical frailty prevalence among rural older adults in Hunan Province was 21.31% (n = 62). Household income and expenditure [odds ratio (OR): 1.826, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.142–2.918], physical exercise frequency (OR: 1.669, 95% CI: 1.137–2.451), depressive symptoms (OR: 9.069, 95% CI: 3.497–23.516), and fear of falling (OR: 3.135, 95% CI: 1.689–5.818) were identified as significant predictors of physical frailty in rural older individuals. The AUC for the frailty predictive model was 0.860 (95% CI: 0.805, 0.914). The sensitivity and specificity at the optimal cutoff value were 80.6 and 76.0%, respectively, with a Youden index of 0.566.

Conclusion

The prediction model constructed in this study demonstrated promise as a potential tool for evaluating physical frailty risk in older adults, which can contribute to healthcare providers’ screenings for high-risk populations. Further multidimensional and experimental intervention studies should be conducted to prevent the occurrence and delay the progression of physical frailty in older adults.
Global burden of trichomoniasis: current status, trends, and projections (1990–2021)
Authors: Wei Xingmin , Liu Lu , Liu Kun , Qin Xiaoang , Wu Jianjun , Jiang Lou , Shang Longjian
Published: February 2025

Objectives

Trichomoniasis one of the most neglected sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), imposes a significant global disease burden. This study aims to assess the burden and trends of trichomoniasis from 1990 to 2021 and to project its incidence from 2022 to 2050.

Methods

This study utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease 2021 study for secondary analysis. We determined the age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR) and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) of trichomoniasis by sex, age, and socio-demographic index (SDI) level. Changes in burden trends across sex and age were explored from 1990 to 2021, using joinpoint regression. The incidence of trichomoniasis was projected for the period 2022 to 2050, using R software.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, the estimated annual percentage change (EAPC) in the global ASIR of trichomoniasis was 0.09 (95% CI: 0.06 to 0.13). In 2021, the global ASIR of trichomoniasis was 4,133.41 per 100,000 people (95% UI: 3,111.37 to 5,583.56 per 100,000). By population group, the ASIR was higher in men (4,353.43 per 100,000) than in women (3,921.31 per 100,000) in 2021, while the DALY rate was significantly higher in women than in men (6.45 vs. 0.23 per 100,000). When divided by age groups, the trend in ASIR among women aged 30–54 years aligned closely with the overall population incidence trend. In 2021, ASIRs were highest in low SDI regions, and the projected ASIRs by 2050 are 5,680.57 per 100,000 in males and 5,749.47 per 100,000 in females.

Conclusion

Trichomoniasis represents a significant global disease burden, particularly among women in low-income areas and individuals aged 30–54 years. The study highlights the need for targeted strategies to reduce the burden of trichomoniasis-related infections, especially in vulnerable populations.
High-throughput, pan-leukocyte biomarkers for the detection of inflammation in human breastmilk and stool
Authors: Dunnet M. J. , Morison I. M. , Bond D. M. , Hore T. A.
Published: February 2025

Background

DNA methylation can be used to track cellular identity. We have previously developed a high-throughput, cost-effective DNA methylation pipeline containing two loci, HOXA3 and MAP4K1, that can quantify leukocyte proportion amongst a range of background tissues. Here, we apply this pipeline to two clinically relevant tissue samples: breastmilk and stool.

Results

We report that our leukocyte methylation assay can quantify the proportion of leukocytes in breastmilk, and find leukocyte levels fluctuate dramatically in concert with infection severity. We benchmarked our leukocyte methylation pipeline in stool samples against the commonly used faecal calprotectin assay. Our results show a high concordance between the two methods indicating the viability of our DNA methylation biomarkers in the context of intestinal inflammation.

Conclusion:

The data presented here emphasise the clinical applicability of our high-throughput DNA methylation assay in the context of mastitis and intestinal inflammation.
Comparison of bacterial vaginosis symptoms reported in social media vs. those reported by patients
Authors: Velmahos Andriana H. , Cooley Demidkina Briah , Mitchell Caroline M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

There is an increasing tendency to seek health information online rather than through medical professionals. However, the easy accessibility of information online allows for an increased risk of encountering medical misinformation.

Methods

We compared descriptions of symptomatology of bacterial vaginosis (BV) on four social media platforms: Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and X (Twitter). We then compared the frequency of discussion of symptoms with patients' report of symptoms in clinically diagnosed BV, vulvovaginal candidiasis and vulvodynia.

Results

Social media was more likely to report burning (45% of posts), itching (45%) or pain (23%) as symptoms of BV than patients (moderate-severe itching 30%, burning 21% or pain 21%). Although pain was reported more often by people with vulvodynia, other symptoms were not different across diagnoses.

Discussion

Social media overemphasizes the ability of symptoms to allow self-diagnosis of vaginitis, which can lead to delayed treatment, highlighting the need to promote accurate health information online.
Deep-learning-based detection of underwater fluids in multiple multibeam echosounder data
Authors: Perret Tyméa , Le Chenadec Gilles , Gaillot Arnaud , Ladroit Yoann , Dupré Stéphanie
Published: February 2025

Detecting and locating emitted fluids in the water column is necessary for studying margins, identifying natural resources, and preventing geohazards. Fluids can be detected in the water column using multibeam echosounder data. However, manually analyzing the huge volume of this data for geoscientists is a very time-consuming task. Our study investigated the use of a YOLO-based deep learning supervised approach to automate the detection of fluids emitted from cold seeps (gaseous methane) and volcanic sites (liquid carbon dioxide). Several thousand annotated echograms collected from three different seas and oceans during distinct surveys were used to train and test the deep learning model. The results demonstrate first that this method surpasses current machine learning techniques, such as Haar-Local Binary Pattern Cascade. Additionally, we thoroughly analyzed the composition of the training dataset and evaluated the detection performance based on various training configurations. The tests were conducted on a dataset comprising hundreds of thousands of echograms i) acquired with three different multibeam echosounders (Kongsberg EM302 and EM122 and Reson Seabat 7150) and ii) characterized by variable water column noise conditions related to sounder artefacts and the presence of biomass (fishes, dolphins). Incorporating untargeted echoes (acoustic artefacts) in the training set (through hard negative mining) along with adding images without fluid-related echoes are the most efficient way to improve the performance of the model and reduce the false positives. Our fluid detector opens the door for near-real time acquisition and post-acquisition detection with efficiency, reliability and rapidity.
Digital economy, consumption structure and rural economic transformation: a case study of China
Authors: Liu Yang , Chen Wenjuan , Zhang Xu , Liao Wenmei
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Promoting rural economic transformation is an important foundation for achieving agricultural modernization. Under the background of rural revitalization strategy, digital technology is increasingly being applied in the agricultural sector, and the digital economy is becoming a new driving force for China's rural economic transformation.

Methods

Based on China's provincial panel data from 2013 to 2020, this paper uses the two-way fixed effect model, intermediary effect model, and panel threshold model to deeply analyze the impact and internal mechanism of the digital economy development on rural economic transformation.

Results and discussion

The research shows that the digital economy significantly promotes China's rural economic transformation, and this conclusion is still valid after robustness tests such as selecting historical data as instrumental variables. The mechanism test confirms that the digital economy promotes rural economic transformation by optimizing residents' consumption structure. In addition, the digital economy has a single threshold effect on the rural economic transformation based on the level of consumption structure. After crossing the threshold value, its promotion effect on the rural economic transformation is more prominent, indicating that the impact of the digital economy on the rural economic transformation will show the non-linear characteristics of increasing ‘marginal effect' due to the different levels of consumption structure; Heterogeneity analysis found that compared to southern regions, the digital economy in northern regions has a more significant promoting effect on rural economic transformation. This study deepens the understanding of the motivation for rural economic transformation and the effects, mechanisms, and regional differences of the digital economy empowering rural economic transformation. Based on this, this paper proposes that the government fully realize the digital economy's important role in rural economic transformation, actively innovate and promote digital technology, continue to expand and strengthen the consumer Internet, adjust measures to local conditions, and try to achieve coordinated development.
Sodium-glucose co-transporter 2 inhibitors: a pleiotropic drug in humans with promising results in cats
Authors: Vieira Aline B. , Cavanaugh Sarah M. , Ciambarella Bianca T. , Machado Marcus V.
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus is a common metabolic disease in humans and cats. Cats share several features of human type-2 diabetes and can be considered an animal model for this disease. In the last decade, sodium-glucose transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) have been used successfully as a class of hypoglycemic drug that inhibits the reabsorption of glucose from the renal proximal tubules, consequently managing hyperglycemia through glycosuria. Furthermore, SGLT2i have been shown to have cardiac, renal, and other protective effects in diabetic humans acting as a pleiotropic drug. Currently, at least six SGLT2i are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in humans with type-2 diabetes, and recently, two drugs were approved for use in diabetic cats. This narrative review focuses on the use of SGLT2i to treat diabetes mellitus in humans and cats. We summarize the human data that support the use of SGLT2i in controlling type-2 diabetes and protecting against cardiovascular and renal damage. We also review the available literature regarding other benefits of these drugs in humans as well as the effects of SGLT2i in cats. Adverse effects related to the use of these hypoglycemic drugs are also discussed.
An Initial Trajectory Design for the Multi-Target Exploration of the Electric Sail
Authors: Fan Zichen , Cheng Fei , Li Wenlong , Pan Guiqi , Huo Mingying , Qi Naiming
Published: February 2025

The electric sail (E-sail), as an emerging propulsion system with an infinite specific impulse, is particularly suitable for ultra-long-distance multi-target deep-space exploration missions. If multiple gravity assists are considered during the exploration process, it can effectively improve the exploration efficiency of the E-sail. This paper proposes a fast optimization algorithm for deep-space multi-target exploration trajectories for the E-sail, which achieves the exploration of multiple celestial bodies and solar-system boundaries in one flight, and introduces a gravity assist to improve the flight speed of the E-sail during the exploration process. By comparing simulation examples under different conditions, the effectiveness of the algorithm proposed in this paper has been demonstrated. This is of great significance for the initial rapid design of complex deep-space exploration missions such as the E-sail multi-target exploration.
Association Between InDel and CNV Variation in the FBLN1 Gene and Slaughter Traits in Cattle
Authors: Gu Hongye , Zhu Qihui , Li Yafang , Zhang Yuli , Zhang Chiyuan , Mao Cui , Jiang Fugui , Pan Chuanying , Lan Xianyong , Deng Tianyu
Published: February 2025

The FBLN1 gene encodes the fibulin-1 protein, the first member of the ECM glycoprotein family, and is crucial for embryonic development and organ tissue formation in mammals. Our previous transcriptome analysis identified the FBLN1 gene and suggested its potential role in influencing slaughter traits by regulating ECM function. This study aims to uncover key genetic variants (InDel and CNV) within the FBLN1 gene and examine its relationship with slaughter traits in beef cattle. In this study, the beef cattle genetic resources population Gaoqing black cattle were selected (n = 641), leading to the identification of three polymorphic InDel loci (13 bp insertion, 28 bp insertion, and 24 bp insertion) and two CNVs. Association analysis revealed that InDel polymorphisms in Gaoqing black cattle were significantly correlated with certain slaughter traits (p < 0.05), such as left limb weight and right limb weight. In addition, the CNV loci were significantly correlated with traits such as skirt steak and round small intestine (p < 0.05), and reached extremely significant levels (p < 0.01) in certain traits such as chunky II and high rib. In summary, the identified InDel and CNV polymorphisms in the FBLN1 gene represent potential molecular markers associated with slaughter traits in Gaoqing black cattle. These findings provide valuable insights for marker-assisted selection to enhance genetic improvement in beef cattle breeding.
Application of Calcium Peroxide for Methane Mitigation in Paddy Fields: Effects of Milk Vetch (Astragalus sinicus L.) Incorporation
Authors: Wang Ying , Su Zhengdong , Wang Jiajia , Jiang Tengfei , Zhou Nannan
Published: February 2025

Addressing the pressing issue of global warming, sustainable rice cultivation strategies are crucial. Milk vetch (MV), a common green manure in paddies, has been shown to increase CH4 emissions, necessitating effective mitigation. This two-year field experiment assessed the impact of applying calcium peroxide (CaO2), widely used in wastewater treatment and soil remediation due to its oxygen-releasing properties, on CH4 emissions in conventional paddy fields (chemical fertilizer-only) and MV-incorporated fields. The results revealed that in conventional paddy fields, CaO2 application significantly reduced the average CH4 emissions by 19% without affecting rice yield. Compared with chemical fertilizer alone, MV incorporation increased the average rice yield by 12% but significantly elevated CH4 emissions. However, in paddy fields with MV incorporation, CaO2 application significantly reduced CH4 emissions by 19% while preserving the yield benefits of MV. Soil analyses indicated that MV incorporation led to increased soil carbon content and increased mcrA and pmoA gene copy numbers, with elevated mcrA gene copy numbers being primarily responsible for the promoted CH4 emissions. CaO2 application improved the soil redox potential, reducing mcrA gene copies and consequently mitigating CH4 emissions. Overall, CaO2 application can contribute to global efforts to reduce CH4 emissions while supporting rice productivity.
Correction: Chen et al. Multiple Effects of Agricultural Heritage Identity on Residents’ Value Co-Creation—A Host–Guest Interaction Perspective on Tea Culture Tourism in China. Agriculture 2025, 15, 57
Authors: Chen Youcheng , Lin Yuting , Su Xinwei , Chen Pengwei , Song Huiqi
Published: February 2025

There was an error in the original publication [...]
Impact of Soil on Biomass Yield and Accumulation of Lipophilic Secondary Metabolites in Four Hypericum Species
Authors: Miķelsone Ieva , Sipeniece Elise , Mišina Inga , Bondarenko Elvita , Segliņa Dalija , Górnaś Paweł
Published: February 2025

The genus Hypericum is a widely distributed ornamental and therapeutic herb known for its diverse bioactive compounds, including xanthones. The levels of secondary metabolites in plants are influenced by the specific plant part, agronomic conditions, and environmental factors. Recently, the occurrence of tocotrienols, rare tocochromanols, was reported in Hypericum perforatum. Therefore, this study investigated the profiles of tocochromanols in different plant sections—leaves, stems, flowers, and flower bud—of four Hypericum species: H. perforatum, H. annulatum, H. androsaemum, and H. × inodorum, cultivated in three types of soil: potting, sandy, and clay. In the initial growing year, the highest biomass yield was recorded for H. perforatum grown in potting soil. Soil and species significantly influence biomass yield (p < 0.05). The inflorescences of H. perforatum were dominated by tocotrienols (T3s), primarily α-T3 and δ-T3, an observation not noted for H. annulatum. α-Tocopherol (α-T) was dominant in the leaves, while in the stems, except for H. perforatum (α-T), tocotrienols—γ-T3 and δ-T3 in H. inodorum and H. androsaemum and α-T3 and γ-T3 in H. annulatum—were more prevalent. This study demonstrates differences in tocochromanol accumulation in different parts of the four Hypericum species grown in different soils.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Analyses of the Abscisic Acid Receptor PYR/PYL Gene Family in Response to Fruit Development and Exogenous Abscisic Acid in Luffa (Luffa cylindrica L.)
Authors: Liu Jianting , Wang Yuqian , Li Zuliang , Wen Qingfang , Zhu Haisheng , He Shuilin
Published: February 2025

The pyrabactin resistance 1-like (PYR/PYL) proteins are abscisic acid receptors that perform multiple functions in various plant growth and development processes. However, the PYR/PYL gene family in luffa (Luffa cylindrica L.) has not been well-explored. In this study, we analysed the effects of whole-genome member identification, endogenous soluble sugars (SS), soluble proteins (SP), abscisic acid (ABA), indole-3-acetic acid (IAA, auxin) and the gene expression pattern of PYR/PYL influenced by exogenous abscisic acid (ABA) during the fruit development of luffa through the use of physiological and biochemical analyses, bioinformatics, and RT-qPCR techniques. We conducted a comprehensive genome-wide identification and characterisation of the PYR/PYL gene family in luffa fruit development. Four LcPYR and 10 LcPYL genes were identified in the luffa reference genome via bioinformatics analyses. A chromosomal mapping of the identified LcPYR/PYL genes showed that they were distributed on 9 of the 13 chromosomes in the luffa genome. Conserved structural domain analyses of the 14 proteins encoded by the LcPYR/PYL genes identified the PYR_PYL_RCAR_like structural domains typical of this family; however, no regulatory component of abscisic acid receptor (RCAR)-type genes was found. At six luffa fruit development stages (i.e., 0, 3, 6, 9, 12, and 15 days after pollination), the contents of soluble sugars, soluble proteins, and endogenous hormones ABA and IAA in the fruit significantly increased. Under the exogenous ABA treatments, the contents of these four endogenous substances in the fruits were significantly higher than they were in the control group at the same time period, and ABA and IAA seemed to be synergistically involved in the luffa fruit-ripening process. An analysis of the luffa transcriptome data and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR) experiments showed that multiple LcPYR/PYLs (e.g., LcPYL10 and LcPYR4) had differential expression levels in the seven different tissues and exogenous ABA-treated fruits that were analysed, suggesting their roles in ABA hormone-mediated ripening of luffa fruit. Together, the results provide basic information about the LcPYR/PYL family in L. cylindrica and their involvement in fruit development.
The Formation, Stabilization Mechanism, and Environmental Impacts of Persistent Free Radicals in Soil Humic Substances
Authors: Wang Xuqin , Han Yang , Cao Yanwei , Ni Yiping , Wang Dengzhi , Luan Yaning
Published: February 2025

Persistent free radicals (PFRs) in humic substances (HSs) are relatively stable free radicals with a longer lifespan compared to transient free radicals. These PFRs are abundant in the ecological environment, such as in soil and water. The formation of PFRs in HSs occurs primarily through the humification of biological residues, electron transfer between quinone and phenolic groups in HSs, and interactions among microorganisms, HSs, and mineral particles. Mineral particles contribute significantly to the stability of these radicals. Conditions such as prolonged exposure to light and redox changes further influence their formation and stability. PFRs in HSs have been applied in the treatment and remediation of environmental pollution due to their ability to adsorb, degrade, and undergo redox reactions with soil pollutants. The formation mechanisms of PFRs (including semiquinone free radicals) in soil HSs are reviewed, and the factors affecting their stability are explored. Additionally, the interaction between PFRs and soil pollutants, and their effects on pollutant migration and transformation, and soil microbial communities, are discussed. Lastly, perspectives for future research aimed at improving innovation in understanding the impact of PFRs on pollutant migration and transformation, soil microbial communities, and the environmental behavior of PFRs are provided.
A Dirigent Gene, ZmDIR11, Positively Regulates Drought Tolerance in Maize
Authors: Zhao Zhixiong , Guan Yuan , Qin Tao , Zheng Hongjian , Wang Hui , Xu Wen , Gu Wei , Yu Diansi , Wei Jihui , Hu Yinxiong
Published: February 2025

The DIR gene family, which encodes Dirigent proteins, plays a crucial role in plant development and stress responses. However, the functions and mechanisms of this family in maize remained underexplored. This study identified ZmDIR11, a member of the maize Dirigent protein family, and explored its role in drought tolerance. ZmDIR11 shared conserved regions with homologous proteins in wheat, rice, and Arabidopsis. RT-qPCR analysis revealed that ZmDIR11 expression is upregulated in leaves under drought and PEG stress, while subcellular localization confirmed its presence in the endoplasmic reticulum. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) and EMS mutagenesis demonstrated that ZmDIR11 silencing or mutation significantly reduces drought tolerance in maize seedlings, indicating its positive regulatory role. Silencing or mutation of ZmDIR11 led to decreased growth parameters (plant height, root length, fresh weight, dry weight, and chlorophyll content) under drought stress, alongside a reduced antioxidant capacity, as evidenced by increased levels of MDA and ROS and decreased activities of SOD, CAT, and POD. Furthermore, ZmDIR11 mutation impaired the synthesis of ABA and zeatin, downregulating key genes in the ABA (ZmABA1, ZmNCED3, ZmSnRK2.6) and zeatin (ZmIPT4, ZmCKO5, ZmCKO4b) pathways. Drought-responsive genes (ZmRD20, ZmRD22, ZmDREB2A) and lignan biosynthesis genes (Zm4CL, ZmC3H, ZmCAD1) are also downregulated in ZmDIR11 mutants. In conclusion, ZmDIR11 enhances drought tolerance in maize by regulating antioxidant capacity, ABA and zeatin synthesis, and lignan metabolism. This study provides new insights into the role of DIR genes in drought tolerance and offers a potential genetic resource for breeding drought-resistant maize varieties.
Microsatellite Markers Determine the Genetic Structure and Diversity of Landraces of Quinoa from Ayacucho, Peru
Authors: De la Cruz Germán , Saldaña Carla L. , Menéndez Francisco , Neyra Edgar , Arbizu Carlos I.
Published: February 2025

Quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa, Amaranthaceae) is a pseudocereal native to the Andes of South America that contains high protein content and adequate nutrient levels. Peru possesses an abundant morphological diversity of quinoas and is among the top producers and exporters worldwide of this precious crop. However, knowledge about the genetic and population components of quinoa from the Peruvian Andes is still limited. Here, we used 13 microsatellite markers to determine the genetic diversity and population structure of 105 landraces of quinoa cultivated in 11 provinces of Ayacucho, the southern Peruvian Andes. A total of 285 bands were manually scored, generating a 105 × 285 presence/absence data set. Principal coordinate analysis, similar to a dendrogram using the UPGMA clustering algorithm, showed that quinoa from Ayacucho is grouped into three clusters without a clear geographic component. Estimation of the genetic diversity indices was conducted considering the three populations (C1: south 1, C2: south 2, C3: north) determined by STRUCTURE analysis, showing mean expected heterozygosity was 0.08, which may be attributed to high rates of inbreeding and genetic drift, as Ayacucho suffered decades of sociopolitical violence, promoting the migration of farmers. The highest population divergence (FST) was exhibited for C2 and C3 (0.03), whereas the lowest was for C1 and C3 (0.02). Analysis of molecular variance revealed the greatest variation within populations (80.07%) and indicated that variability between populations is 19.93%. Microsatellite markers were effective; however, more studies of the genetic components of quinoa from other Peruvian Andean localities are still needed. We expect that this work will help pave the way towards the development of modern breeding programs of quinoa in Peru, with accurate strategies for the conservation of this nutritious crop.
Letrozole and Crocin: Protecting Leydig Cells and Modulating Androgen Receptor and CYP19 Gene Expression in Busulfan-Induced Azoospermia
Authors: Nokhbeh Zaeem Shahrzad , Heydari Nasrabadi Mitra , Salehipour Masoud , Ehtesham Somayeh
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to investigate the impact of letrozole and crocin on Leydig cells on busulfan-induced azoospermia using a rat model. A sample population consisting of thirty male rats was randomly assigned to five groups: (1) the control group, (2) azoospermia group, (3) azoospermia group treated with letrozole, (4) azoospermia group treated with crocin, and (5) azoospermia group treated with both letrozole and crocin. The treatment period with letrozole and crocin lasted for four weeks following busulfan administration. Subsequently, comprehensive analyses, including histopathological, molecular, and hormonal assessments, were performed, followed by immunohistochemical staining. This study found that the control group exhibited normal Leydig cell morphology, while the azoospermia group showed reduced Leydig cells and tissue disruptions. Letrozole and crocin treatments were associated with increased testicular fibrosis in the AZO and AZO + Cro groups, while their combination notably reduced fibrosis to approximately 15%. Furthermore, the combination treatment enhanced antioxidant enzyme activity and upregulated androgen receptor expression. Although a number of improvements were noted in sperm motility, they were not statistically significant. Further research is required to clarify the therapeutic implications of these findings in azoospermia treatment.