bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of Ultrasound Radiomics in Differentiating Benign from Malignant Breast Nodules in Women with Post-Silicone Breast Augmentation
Authors: Hao Ling , Chen Yang , Su Xuejiao , Ma Buyun
Published: January 2025

Purpose: To evaluate the diagnostic value of ultrasound radiomics in distinguishing between benign and malignant breast nodules in women who have undergone silicone breast augmentation. Methods: A retrospective study was conducted of 99 breast nodules detected by ultrasound in 93 women who had undergone silicone breast augmentation. The ultrasound data were collected between 1 January 2006 and 1 September 2023. The nodules were allocated into a training set (n = 69) and a validation set (n = 30). Regions of interest (ROIs) were manually delineated using 3D Slicer software, and radiomic features were extracted and selected using Python programming. Eight machine learning algorithms were applied to build predictive models, and their performance was assessed using sensitivity, specificity, area under the ROC curve (AUC), accuracy, Brier score, and log loss. Model performance was further evaluated using ROC curves and calibration curves, while clinical utility was assessed via decision curve analysis (DCA). Results: The random forest model exhibited superior performance in differentiating benign from malignant nodules in the validation set, achieving sensitivity of 0.765, specificity of 0.838, and an AUC of 0.787 (95% CI: 0.561–0.960). The model’s accuracy, Brier score, and log loss were 0.796, 0.197, and 0.599, respectively. DCA suggested potential clinical utility of the model. Conclusion: Ultrasound radiomics demonstrates promising diagnostic accuracy in differentiating benign from malignant breast nodules in women with silicone breast prostheses. This approach has the potential to serve as an additional diagnostic tool for patients following silicone breast augmentation.
Determination of Urinary Neutrophil Gelatinase-Associated Lipocalin (uNGAL) Reference Intervals in Healthy Adult and Pediatric Individuals Using a Particle-Enhanced Turbidimetric Immunoassay
Authors: Baker Tabari M. , Bird Christopher A. , Broyles Dennis L. , Klause Ursula
Published: January 2025

Background: The current gold standards for diagnosing acute kidney injury (AKI) are an increase in serum creatinine and a decrease in urine output, which are inadequate for rapid diagnosis. Neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL) is a 25-kDa protein produced and secreted by injured kidney tubule epithelial cells, and can serve as an early urinary biomarker for AKI. ProNephro AKI (NGAL) is an immunoassay for the quantitative determination of NGAL in urine (uNGAL) that recently received FDA clearance. A multisite, cross-sectional study was conducted to establish reference intervals for uNGAL in apparently healthy individuals. Methods: Urine samples were collected from apparently healthy individuals aged ≥3 months who met all inclusion criteria and no exclusion criteria. Specimens were temporarily stored at room temperature or 2–8 °C, then transferred into urinalysis tubes before being frozen and shipped for testing. uNGAL testing was performed using the ProNephro AKI (NGAL) immunoassay on a Roche cobas c501 analyzer. Results: Of the 688 individuals screened, 677 were eligible, and 629 (91.4%) of those were deemed evaluable. The 95th and 97.5th percentile uNGAL values for all pediatric participants were below the clinical cutoff of 125 ng/mL. uNGAL values were statistically significantly higher for female vs. male participants in both adult (p = 0.003) and pediatric groups (p < 0.001), while differences were not statistically significant for age, site location, race, or ethnicity. Conclusions: This study provides normal reference intervals for uNGAL with the ProNephro AKI (NGAL) clinical chemistry immunoassay that may be useful for interpreting patient results.
Comparison Between Topographic-Based and Manifest-Based Astigmatism Corrections in the Second (Visumax 800)-Generation Keratorefractive Lenticule Extraction Surgery: A Real-World Study
Authors: Lee Chia-Yi , Chen Hung-Chi , Yang Shun-Fa , Hsueh Yi-Jen , Huang Chin-Te , Huang Jing-Yang , Lian Ie-Bin , Chang Chao-Kai
Published: January 2025

Objectives: To evaluate the effectiveness of astigmatism correction between topographic- and manifest-based methods in individuals who underwent second-generation keratorefractive lenticule extraction (KLEx) surgery. Methods: This study was conducted with participants who underwent second-generation KLEx surgery. After exclusion, there were 46 and 43 participants in the manifest and topographic groups, respectively. The main outcomes were postoperative uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA), spherical equivalent (SE), and residual astigmatism. The independent T-test and generalized estimate equation were used to investigate differences between the two groups. Results: Three months postoperatively, UDVA was 0.02 ± 0.04 in the manifest group and 0.00 ± 0.06 in the topographic group which also revealed no significant difference (p = 0.155). Also, the SE value in the two groups three months postoperatively was statistically similar (−0.57 ± 0.48D versus −0.63 ± 0.62D, p = 0.574). The final residual astigmatism was −0.26 ± 0.27 in the topographic group which was significantly lower than the −0.51 ± 0.40 in the manifest group (p < 0.001). Moreover, the amplitude of astigmatism change was significantly lower in the topographic group (p = 0.002). In the subgroup analysis, UDVA and residual astigmatism were significantly better in the topographic group than in the manifest group (both p < 0.05). Conclusions: The topographic-based method represents a better astigmatism correction than the manifest-based method in second-generation KLEx surgery, especially in the low astigmatism population.
Anti-Adhesive Podocalyxin Expression Is Disrupted in Recurrent Implantation Failure
Authors: Tas Mustafa
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The downregulation of anti-adhesive regulatory proteins and upregulation of adhesive genes are critical for the receptive endometrium. This study was designed to determine whether switching between the anti-adhesive podocalyxin (PDX) and adhesive HOXA10 receptivity modulator occurs in the endometrium of women with recurrent implantation failure (RIF). Methods: Twenty-four patients with RIF who could not conceive for three or more cycles despite good-quality embryo transfer constituted the study group. Twenty-four patients with unexplained infertility (UEI) matched for age, BMI, and infertility duration were included in the control group. Twenty women scheduled to undergo intrauterine device (IUD) placement for birth control were included in the comparative group. Endometrial tissue was collected from patients with RIF and UEI during egg retrieval after ovarian stimulation using the GnRH antagonist protocol. In the fertile group, endometrial tissues were collected during IUD insertion. HOXA10 mRNA expression was analyzed by qRT-PCR and PDX protein expression was analyzed by ELISA. The relative expression of endometrial HOXA10 mRNA was calculated using the 2−ΔΔCt equation. Results: The relative expression of HOXA10 mRNA in the RIF group was significantly lower than that in the UEI group (p < 0.001). HOXA10 mRNA expression in the fertile group was significantly higher than that in the RIF group and was similar to that in the UEI group. PDX expression in the RIF group was significantly higher than that in the UEI group (p < 0.001). PDX expression in the fertile group was significantly lower than in the RIF and UEI groups. A negative correlation was detected between the anti-adhesive PDX protein and adhesive HOXA10 (r = −0.797, p < 0.001). Although there was a positive correlation between endometrial thickness recorded on the day of hCG administration and HOXA10 (r = 0.590, p < 0.01), endometrial thickness was negatively correlated with PDX (r = −0.529, p < 0.01). Conclusions: The failed physiological downregulation of the anti-adhesive PDX protein in patients with RIF prevented the upregulation of adhesive HOXA10 mRNA.
English and French Teachers’ Assessment Practices in the Ukrainian Context: Understanding Language Assessment Literacy Needs Across Two Languages
Authors: Ukrayinska Olga
Published: January 2025

This paper explores assessment practices of teachers of English and French as a second language in the Ukrainian educational context with the aim of shaping the language assessment literacy (LAL) construct for teaching it to pre-service teachers. Seventy Ukrainian teachers completed a questionnaire designed to study their assessments that underpin their LAL. Analyses of the data confirmed the following: (1) teachers of English articulated a greater need for training in language testing and assessment, (2) teachers of English and French differ in the task formats they use, and (3) teachers of English and French assign different weight to various assessment criteria. These findings suggest that differences in assessment practices reflect cultural traditions in language pedagogies. Moreover, teachers’ assessments reflect the content of textbooks and international proficiency tests that they use for teaching purposes.
FPGA-Based Manchester Decoder for IEEE 802.15.7 Visible Light Communications
Authors: Ricci Stefano , Caputo Stefano , Mucchi Lorenzo
Published: January 2025

Visible Light Communication (VLC) is a cutting-edge transmission technique where data is sent by modulating light intensity. Manchester On–Off Keying (OOK) is among the most used modulation techniques in VLC and is normed by IEEE 802.15.7 standard for wireless networks. Various Manchester decoder schemes are documented in the literature, often leveraging minimal two-level analog-to-digital converters followed by straightforward digital logic. These methods often compromise performance for simplicity. However, the VLC applications in fields like automotive and/or aerospace require the maximum performance in terms of bit error rate (BER) with respect to Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR), together with a real-time low-latency implementation. In this work, we introduce a high-performance Manchester decoder and detail its implementation in a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA). The decoder operates by acquiring a fully resolved signal (12-bit resolution) and by calculating the phase of the transmitted bit. Additionally, the proposed decoder achieves and maintains synchronization with the incoming signal, tolerating frequency shifts and jitter up to 1%. The Manchester decoder was tested in a VLC system with automotive-certified headlamps, realizing an IEEE 802.15.7-compliant link at 100 kb/s. The proposed decoder ensures a BER below 10−2 for SNR > −12 dB and, compared to a standard decoder, achieves the same BER when the input signal has an SNR of 10 dB lower.
A Malware-Detection Method Using Deep Learning to Fully Extract API Sequence Features
Authors: Zhang Shuhui , Gao Mingyu , Wang Lianhai , Xu Shujiang , Shao Wei , Kuang Ruixue
Published: January 2025

Due to the rapid emergence of malware and its greater harm, the successful execution of malware often brings incalculable losses. Consequently, the detection of malware has become increasingly crucial. The sequence of API calls in software embodies substantial behavioral information, offering significant advantages in the identification of malicious activities. Meanwhile, the capability of automatic feature extraction by deep learning can better mine the features of API call sequences. In the current research, API features remain underutilized, resulting in suboptimal accuracy in API detection. In this paper, we propose a deep-learning-based method for detecting malware using API call sequences. This method transforms the API call sequence into a grayscale image and performs classification in conjunction with sequence features. By leveraging a range of deep-learning algorithms, we extract diverse behavioral information from software, encompassing semantic details, time-series information, API call frequency data, and more. Additionally, we introduce a specialized neural network framework and assess the impact of pixel size on classification effectiveness during the grayscale image-mapping process. The experimental results show that the accuracy of our classification method is as high as 99%. Compared with other malware-detection techniques, especially those based on API call sequences, our method maps API call sequences to gray image analysis and has higher detection accuracy.
Decentralized Control Framework for Optimal Platoon Spacing and Energy Efficiency
Authors: Maarouf Ali , Bin Salamah Yasser , Ahmad Irfan
Published: January 2025

This study introduces a decentralized control framework designed to improve energy efficiency in vehicle platooning by optimizing inter-vehicle gaps to minimize aerodynamic drag, a significant factor in energy consumption. The proposed framework integrates extremum seeking control (ESC), a proportional integral derivative controller with feedforward compensation (PIDFC), and an extended state observer for estimating aerodynamic drag coefficients. Through this integration, the ESC dynamically adjusts inter-vehicle gaps to minimize the drag force based on the estimated aerodynamic drag coefficients, while the PIDFC ensures precise tracking of the optimized gaps and effectively addresses disturbances arising from aerodynamic variations. The results show that the proposed ESC with PIDFC converged to the optimal distance gaps 37.14% faster than the ESC with PPC, within a steady-state error of ±1%. Additionally, it improved the computational efficiency by 70.6%, compared to the ESC with PPC. Furthermore, it reduced the energy consumption by 15.3%, compared to the fixed-gap approach. These findings demonstrate the framework’s potential to enhance the energy efficiency, scalability, and practicality, advancing sustainable and autonomous transportation systems.
Robust Adaptive Control of a Coaxial-Ducted-Fan Aircraft with Uncertainty Model
Authors: Ai Tianfu , Luo Yiwei , Zeng Dequan , Hu Yiming , Liang Chengcheng , Pan Feige
Published: January 2025

This paper focuses on the robust adaptive control of a coaxial-ducted-fan aircraft under the context of significant system uncertainty. To ensure accurate tracking even in the presence of model uncertainties and disturbances for a ducted-fan flight platform, a model reference adaptive control architecture is proposed in this paper on the basis of control augmentation. With the nominal closed-loop system as the reference system, this architecture overlays adaptive control inputs on top of the linear time-invariant control inputs to compensate for uncertainties in real time. This allows the reference system to be tracked rapidly and accurately by the output of the uncertain system, which ensures that the performance of the closed-loop system meets design requirements and that the flight envelope of the prototype is further expanded. The superiority of the proposed method is demonstrated by numerical simulation of the ducted-fan aircraft. The simulation results show that the proposed robust adaptive control algorithm is advantageous over the baseline control in rapidly compensating for the closed-loop performance of the system, even in the presence of a more severe disturbance. At the same time, the performance of control algorithms are verified by conducting flight experiments. The results show that when the prototype undergoes low-speed slow-change maneuvering, there is little difference in the tracking performance of the four channels of the two control strategies. However, when the prototype undergoes high-speed fast-change maneuvering, the root mean square (RMS) values of the tracking errors of the robust adaptive control and the baseline control are 0.749 m/s and 1.039 m/s, respectively, and the robust adaptive algorithm reduces the tracking error by about 38% on the basis of the baseline control.
Integrated Stochastic Approach for Instantaneous Energy Performance Analysis of Thermal Energy Systems
Authors: Le-ol Anthony Kpegele , Adumene Sidum , Aziaka Duabari Silas , Yazdi Mohammad , Mohammadpour Javad
Published: January 2025

To ascertain energy availability and system performance, a comprehensive understanding of the systems’ degradation profile and impact on overall plant reliability is imperative. The current study presents an integrated Failure Mode and Effects Analysis (FMEA)–Markovian algorithm for reliability-based instantaneous energy performance prediction for thermal energy systems. The FMEA methodology is utilized to identify and categorize the various failure modes of the gas turbines, establishing a reliability pattern that informs overall system performance. Meanwhile, the Markovian algorithm discretizes the system into states based on its operational energy performance envelope. The algorithm predicts instantaneous energy performance according to upper and lower bounds criteria. This integrated methodology has been subjected to testing in three case studies, yielding results that demonstrate improved reliability and instantaneous energy performance prediction during system degradation. It was observed that after 14 years of operation, the likelihood of major failures increases to 79.6%, 88.7%, and 82.8%, with corresponding decreases in system performance reliability of 10.1%, 4.5%, and 7.8% for the Afam, Ibom, and Sapele gas turbine plants, respectively. Furthermore, the percentage of instantaneous mean power performance relative to the rated capacity is 37.9%, 35.1%, and 46.3% for the three gas turbine plants. These results indicate that the Sapele thermal power plant performs better relative to its rated capacity. Overall, this integrated methodology serves as a valuable tool for monitoring gas turbine engine health and predicting energy performance under varying operating conditions.
Numerical Investigation on Heat Transfer and Pressure Drop in Silver/Water Nanofluids Flowing Through Tubes with Variable Expansion–Contraction Ratios
Authors: Bandarra Filho Enio Pedone , do Nascimento Erick Oliveira , Farooq Muhammad , Cabezas-Gómez Luben
Published: January 2025

This study presents a numerical investigation on the heat transfer and pressure drop characteristics of silver/water nanofluids (0.1–0.5 vol.%) flowing in tubes with four distinct expansion–contraction ratios (ECR = 1.25, 1.50, 1.75, and 2). Additionally, the impact of the distance between expansion and contraction (DEC) within the tubes was examined. The analysis was conducted under turbulent flow conditions and three-dimensional thermal convection in tubes subjected to a constant heat flux of 20 kW/m2, with the inlet Reynolds number maintained at approximately 20,000. The nanofluids were considered as single-phase and modeled in the Ansys Fluent 16 software through the finite volume method, and the equations were discretized through the second-order upwind scheme. The nanofluids demonstrated significant potential in enhancing thermal performance, particularly in tubes where the convective heat transfer coefficient was affected by abrupt expansion–contraction ratio (ECR). A maximum increase of up to 24.90% in the average convective heat transfer coefficient compared to the base fluid was observed. Exergy efficiency showed a tendency to increase by up to 29.97% with the use of nanofluids. The findings indicate that the convective heat transfer coefficient can both increase and decrease with the expansion–contraction ratio (ECR) of the tube, as can the pressure drop. Consequently, the application of this passive technique, incorporating silver/water nanofluids, holds promise for use in cooling systems, nuclear reactors, and other similar applications, provided they are meticulously designed.
Process Line for Waste Heat Recovery in the Production of Stretch Film Based on Compressor Heat Pumps with Environmentally Friendly Refrigerants
Authors: Obstawski Paweł , Słoma Jacek , Górnicki Krzysztof , Awtoniuk Michał
Published: January 2025

The production technology for stretch film is highly energy-intensive. Electrical energy is used not only to power individual components of the technological line but also to change the physical state of the raw material (granules) from solid to liquid, which is poured onto the first calender roller. The calender roller must be cooled to solidify the liquid raw material, and the low-temperature heat generated in this process has been treated so far as waste heat and dispersed into the atmosphere. A low-temperature process heat recovery line has been developed, enabling its transformation into high-temperature heat. High-temperature process heat can be utilized in the technological process for the preliminary preparation of raw material when recycled material (regranulate) with highly variable parameters is added to the base material (granules) with strict specifications. The regranulate content can be as high as 80%. The waste heat recovery system is based on two compressor heat pumps powered by eco-friendly refrigerants. This innovative solution facilitates a circular economy, reduces the carbon footprint, and aligns with the European Green Deal.
Offshore Wind Power—Seawater Electrolysis—Salt Cavern Hydrogen Storage Coupling System: Potential and Challenges
Authors: Liu Xiaoyi , Huang Yashuai , Shi Xilin , Bai Weizheng , Huang Si , Li Peng , Xu Mingnan , Li Yinping
Published: January 2025

Offshore wind power construction has seen significant development due to the high density of offshore wind energy and the minimal terrain restrictions for offshore wind farms. However, integrating this energy into the grid remains a challenge. The scientific community is increasingly focusing on hydrogen as a means to enhance the integration of these fluctuating renewable energy sources. This paper reviews the research on renewable energy power generation, water electrolysis for hydrogen production, and large-scale hydrogen storage. By integrating the latest advancements, we propose a system that couples offshore wind power generation, seawater electrolysis (SWE) for hydrogen production, and salt cavern hydrogen storage. This coupling system aims to address practical issues such as the grid integration of offshore wind power and large-scale hydrogen storage. Regarding the application potential of this coupling system, this paper details the advantages of developing renewable energy and hydrogen energy in Jiangsu using this system. While there are still some challenges in the application of this system, it undeniably offers a new pathway for coastal cities to advance renewable energy development and sets a new direction for hydrogen energy progress.
Novel Multi-Stage Phasor Measurement Unit Placement on Critical Buses with Observability Assessment
Authors: Ahmed Muhammad Musadiq , Amjad Muhammad , Qureshi Muhammad Ali , Khan Muhammad Omer , Haider Zunaib Maqsood
Published: January 2025

Phasor measurement units (PMUs) provide synchronized measurements to enhance power system monitoring, strategically placed to achieve full network observability with minimal cost. In this paper, the PMU placement problem for critical buses is addressed using integer linear programming, taking into account both PMU contingencies and the impact of zero-injection buses. The primary contribution is the development of a multi-stage approach to place PMUs on critical buses. Moreover, it is demonstrated that considering PMU contingencies inherently accounts for line contingencies. Furthermore, a new performance metric, the Bus Coverage Index (BCI), is proposed to evaluate the effectiveness of the placement strategy. This index overcomes the limitations of existing indices, such as the Sum of Redundancy Index (SORI) and Bus Observability Index (BOI). The results are tested on various IEEE benchmark systems under four different cases, showing significantly improved results in terms of network observability and minimized number of PMUs. In Case 1, SORI values improved significantly for the IEEE 7 and IEEE 118 bus systems, while in Case 2, enhancements were observed in the IEEE 30 and IEEE 118 systems. Case 3 demonstrated consistency in results across systems. Notably, in Case 4, the number of required PMUs was reduced in the IEEE 30, IEEE 57, IEEE 118, and New England 39 bus systems, with complete network observability.
How Do Vegetation Biomass, Area, and Shape Attributes Influence the Cooling Effect of Urban Green Spaces?
Authors: Mokhtari Zahra , Russo Alessio , Lafortezza Raffaele
Published: January 2025

Despite the increasing volume of research exploring the impact of various characteristics of urban green spaces (UGS) on land surface temperature (LST), findings remain inconsistent, particularly in arid climatic zones. In this research, we examined UGS change and their temperature and analyzed the relationship between pertinent variables of vegetation biomass, area, and shape of green patches and LST in Karaj city, an Iranian semi-arid urban area in 2000 and 2020. Linear regressions were used to model the relationship between green patches’ variables and LST. The results showed that vegetation biomass of green patches was more effective in reducing temperature in comparison with area and shape complexity. Moreover, larger patches with more vegetation biomass and higher shape complexity showed lower temperatures. These results can guide urban landscape optimization by providing a clear understanding of which factors contribute most significantly to temperature mitigation in arid and semi-arid urban areas. For instance, areas identified as green but thermally not significantly cold need to be prioritized for improvements such as planting denser vegetation or introducing more heat resilient species.
A Blockchain-Assisted Federated Learning Framework for Secure and Self-Optimizing Digital Twins in Industrial IoT
Authors: Ababio Innocent Boakye , Bieniek Jan , Rahouti Mohamed , Hayajneh Thaier , Aledhari Mohammed , Verma Dinesh C. , Chehri Abdellah
Published: January 2025

Optimizing digital twins in the Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) requires secure and adaptable AI models. The IIoT enables digital twins, virtual replicas of physical assets, to improve real-time decision-making, but challenges remain in trust, data security, and model accuracy. This paper presents a novel framework combining blockchain technology and federated learning (FL) to address these issues. By deploying AI models on edge devices and using FL, data privacy is maintained while enabling collaboration across industrial assets. Blockchain ensures secure data management and transparency, while explainable AI (XAI) enhances interpretability. The framework improves transparency, control, security, privacy, and scalability for self-optimizing digital twins in IIoT. A real-world evaluation demonstrates the framework’s effectiveness in enhancing security, explainability, and optimization, offering improved efficiency and reliability for industrial operations.
Development of a Novel Electrochemical Immunosensor for Rapid and Sensitive Detection of Sesame Allergens Ses i 4 and Ses i 5
Authors: Li Huimei , Pan Tian’ge , He Shudong , Sun Hanju , Cao Xiaodong , Ye Yongkang
Published: January 2025

Due to their lipophilicity and low content, the major sesame oleosin allergens, Ses i 4 and Ses i 5, are challenging to identify using conventional techniques. Then, a novel unlabeled electrochemical immunosensor was developed to detect the potential allergic activity of sesame oleosins. The voltammetric immunosensor was constructed using a composite of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs), polyethyleneimine (PEI), and multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs), which was synthesized in a one-pot process and modified onto a glass carbon electrode to enhance the catalytic current of the oxygen reduction reaction. The oleosin antibody was then directed and immobilized onto the surface of the electrode, which had been modified with streptavidin (SPA), through the fragment crystallizable (Fc) region of the antibody. Under optimized conditions, the immunosensor exhibited a linear response within a detection range of 50 to 800 ng/L, with detection limits of 0.616 ng/L for Ses i 4 and 0.307 ng/L for Ses i 5, respectively. The immunosensor demonstrated excellent selectivity and stability, making it suitable for the quantification of sesame oleosins. The comparative analysis of various detection methods for sesame allergens was conducted, revealing that the immunosensor achieved a wide detection range and low limit of detection (LOD). Compared to traditional enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), the immunosensor successfully quantified the allergenicity potential of Ses i 4 and Ses i 5 in roasted sesame seeds at temperatures of 120 °C, 150 °C, and 180 °C. This innovative method offers a new perspective for the rapid quantification of sesame oleosins in foods and real-time monitoring of allergic potential, providing significant advancements in the field of food allergy detection.
Effects of Maillard Reaction Durations on the Physicochemical and Emulsifying Properties of Chickpea Protein Isolate
Authors: Zhang Shanshan , Liu Yibo , Wu Wenhui
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the physicochemical and emulsifying properties of chickpea protein isolate (CPI)-citrus pectin (CP) conjugates formed via the Maillard reaction across varying reaction durations. CPI and CP were conjugated under controlled dry-heating conditions, and the resulting conjugates were characterized by measuring their particle size, zeta potential, solubility, thermal stability, surface hydrophobicity, and emulsifying properties. The results showed that as reaction duration increased, the particle size and zeta potential of the CPI-CP conjugates increased significantly, reaching a maximum particle size of 1311.33 nm and a zeta potential of −35.67 mV at 12 h. Moreover, the Maillard reaction improved the solubility, thermal stability, and hydrophobicity of the CPI. Glycosylation increased the emulsifying activity index (EAI) and emulsifying stability index (ESI) of the CPI to 145.33 m2/g and 174.51 min, respectively. Optimal emulsions were achieved at a protein concentration of 1.5 wt% and a 10% volume fraction of the oil phase. The Maillard reaction promoted the interfacial protein content and the thickness of the interfacial layer while decreasing the droplet size and zeta potential of the emulsion. Additionally, the emulsion prepared with CPI-CP-12 h showed outstanding long-term stability. These results demonstrate that a moderate Maillard reaction with CP effectively enhances the physicochemical and emulsifying characteristics of CPI.
Characterization of the Different Chemical Components and Nutritional Properties of Two Eryngium Species
Authors: Roudbari Mozhgan , Barzegar Mohsen , Sendra Esther , Casanova-Martínez Isabel , Rodríguez-Estrada Marcos , Carbonell-Barrachina Ángel A.
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to investigate the nutritional value and potential for herbal tea production of two species Eryngium. The analysis includes the quantification of lipids, proteins, organic acids (HPLC-MS), sugars (HPLC-MS), phenolic compounds (HPLC-MS-MS), volatile compounds (GC-MS), fatty acids (GC-MS), amino acids (HPLC-MS-MS), some minerals (ICP-MS), total phenolic content, and antioxidant activities of Eryngium billardieri flowers (EBF) and thorns (EBT), as well as Eryngium planum flowers (EPF) and thorns (EPT). The results indicate that EPF and EPT exhibit elevated levels of protein (11.2%) and sugars (224.2 mg/gdw), respectively. Whereas, EBF demonstrates a higher concentration of amino acids (7.13 mg/100 gdw) and total phenolic content (19.25 mg GAE/gdw), which correlates with pronounced antioxidant properties. Oleic acid was notable in E. billardieri, while linoleic and α-linolenic acids were predominant in E. planum. Furthermore, essential minerals such as Fe, Mn, Zn, Mg, K, Ca, and P were also determined. Sensory evaluations by panelists confirmed that tea derived from the studied species possesses favorable taste and flavor profiles, attributed to its rich volatile compounds. These findings highlight the nutritional value of Eryngium species as a functional ingredient in the food industry. Additionally, their antioxidant properties suggest promising uses in pharmaceutical applications.
COVID-19 and Mental Distress and Well-Being Among Older People: A Gender Analysis in the First and Last Year of the Pandemic and in the Post-Pandemic Period
Authors: Matud M. Pilar
Published: January 2025

The Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic seriously threatened the health and well-being of the population. This study aims to investigate the relevance of the COVID-19 pandemic on the stress, mental distress, and well-being of older people in Spain. The design was quantitative repeated cross-sectional. The sample was non-probability and consisted of 1436 persons from the general population divided into two groups: (1) the study group, composed of 718 women (61.3%) and men aged 60 to 89; (2) the comparison group, composed of the same number of women and men aged 30 to 45. All were assessed in three phases of the COVID-19 pandemic: the first pandemic year, the last pandemic year, and the post-pandemic period. The results showed that during the first year of the pandemic, the prevalence of mental distress was higher in older women (50%) than in older men (37.2%), while the rates in the comparison group were 57.2% for women and 53.2% for men. In the post-pandemic period, the rates of mental distress were 30.2% for older women and 29.8% for older men while in the comparison group, the rates were 48.5% for women and 26.5% for men. No significant differences in well-being were found between the groups or between the different phases of the pandemic. The most common stressors reported by older people were illness and death of family and/or loved ones, followed by personal illness. In the post-pandemic period, more stressful events and lower stress resilience were found to predict mental distress in older women and men. Greater perceived vulnerability to infection was another important predictor for women. Low self-esteem and younger age were also predictors of mental distress for men. High self-esteem, high social support, greater stress resilience and fewer stressful events were predictors of well-being for both genders. The results of this study are relevant for the design of policies, programs, and strategies to improve the health and well-being of older people.
The Protective Role of the FIFA 11+ Training Program on the Valgus Loading of the Knee in Academy Soccer Players Across a Season
Authors: Mercurio Michele , Carlisi Giovanni , Ostojic Marko , Imbrogno Alessandro , Galasso Olimpio , Gasparini Giorgio
Published: January 2025

Background: Improper neuromuscular control with excessive dynamic valgus loading of the knee has been identified as one of the main anterior cruciate ligament injury risk factors. This study aimed to analyze the impact of the FIFA 11+ training program on the valgus loading of the knee in academy soccer players over a competitive season. Methods: A prospective study was conducted on 85 players. The drop vertical jump test was carried out before the match and at the end of the same match at the beginning and at the end of the season over a period of 11 months. Results: An increase of the varus angle on the right limb was noted between the start and the end of the season at the beginning of the match (−4.7 ± 8.9 versus −6.9 ± 6, p = 0.003) and between the start and the end of the match in values measured at the beginning of the season (−4.7 ± 8.9 versus −7.7 ± 9, p < 0.001). An increase of the flexion angle of both limbs was noted between the start and the end of the season in values measured at the start of the match (left limb 76.8 ± 32.8 versus 98.6 ± 17.2, p < 0.001; right limb 76.4 ± 32.8 versus 96.1 ± 16.1, p < 0.001) and between the start and the end of the season in values measured at the end of the match (left limb 92.8 ± 19.1 versus 98.5 ± 16.3, p = 0.002; right limb 92.6 ± 19.2 versus 96.7 ± 14.5, p = 0.013). Conclusions: A decrease in dynamic valgus angle and an increase in knee flexion angle measured with the DVJ test were noted between the start and the end of the season, suggesting a protective role of the FIFA 11+ training program.
Yield, Quality, Antioxidants, and Mineral Composition of Traditional Italian Storage Onion Cultivars in Response to Protein Hydrolysate and Microalgae Biostimulation
Authors: Tallarita Alessio Vincenzo , Murariu Otilia Cristina , Kopta Tomas , Lipșa Florin Daniel , Gomez Leonardo , Cozzolino Eugenio , Lombardi Pasquale , Russo Silvio , Caruso Gianluca
Published: January 2025

Increasing interest is being devoted to environmentally friendly strategies, such as the use of plant biostimulants, to enhance crop performance and concurrently ensure food security under the perspective of sustainable management. The effects of two biostimulant formulations (protein hydrolysate and spirulina) on four Italian traditional storage onion cultivars (Ramata di Montoro, Rossa di Tropea, Rocca Bruna, Dorata di Parma) were investigated in Naples province (southern Italy), in terms of yield, quality, shelf-life, bioactive compounds, and mineral composition. Ramata di Montoro showed the highest levels of yield (66.4 t ha−1) and vitamin C (31.5 mg g−1 d.w.) and the longest shelf-life (228 days). Significant increases in marketable yield were recorded under the applications of both protein hydrolysate (+15.5%) and spirulina (+12.4%) compared to the untreated control. The two biostimulant formulations significantly increased bulb shelf-life and the contents of polyphenols (201.4 mg gallic acid eq. 100 g−1 d.w. on average vs. 158.6 of the untreated control), vitamin C (26.8 mg g−1 d.w. on average vs. 22), and both lipophilic and hydrophilic antioxidant activities. These findings demonstrate the effectiveness of both protein hydrolysate and spirulina as sustainable tools for enhancing both yield and quality parameters within the frame of environmentally friendly farming management.
Effects of Dazomet Fumigation Combined with Trichoderma harzianum on Soil Microbial Community Structure of Continuously Cropped Strawberry
Authors: Wu Ran , Li Yan , Meng Jian , Han Jiangwei
Published: January 2025

To study the effects of dazomet, which is a soil fumigant and microbial inoculant (Trichoderma harzianum) on the bacterial and fungal diversity of continuously cropped strawberry soil, this work aimed to provide a theoretical basis for the treatment of continuously cropped strawberry. The soil of a strawberry greenhouse with continuous cropping for 10 years was used as the research object, and rhizosphere soil samples from strawberry continuous cropping were collected before dazomet fumigation (M0), after dazomet fumigation (M1), after dazomet fumigation in the fruit early phase without the addition of T. harzianum (H0), and after the addition of T. harzianum (H1). The diversity of soil bacteria and fungi was detected via the Illumina HiSeq high-throughput sequencing platform. The results revealed that the richness and diversity of the soil bacterial and fungal communities decreased after dazomet fumigation and that the addition of T. harzianum after dazomet fumigation increased both the richness of the soil bacterial communities and the diversity of the fungal communities. At the genus level, the composition ratios of the soil bacterial and fungal communities in the different treatments also substantially differed. The bacterial community compositions of H0 and H1 were the most similar, while the fungal community compositions of M0 and H0 were the most similar. The analysis of beneficial and harmful dominant genera in the soil revealed that dazomet fumigation could kill pathogenic fungi such as Ilyonectria and Fusarium in the soil and reduce beneficial bacteria and fungi such as Streptomyces, Flavobacterium, Mortierella, and Talaromyces. The addition of T. harzianum to dazomet fumigation can increase the abundance of beneficial bacteria and fungi such as Bacillus, Flavobacterium, and Cladorrhinum in the soil as well as reduce the abundance of pathogenic fungi such as Monilinia, Ilyonectria, and Fusarium. In summary, the use of dazomet fumigation combined with microbial inoculation changed the microbial structure of continuously cropped soil, increased the abundance of beneficial bacteria and fungi, and reduced the abundance of the vast majority of pathogenic fungi in the soil. Therefore, dazomet fumigation combined with microbial inoculation is an effective method for overcoming obstacles to continuous cropping of the strawberry.
Health Associations of Positive Childhood Experiences: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Hero Joachim , Gallant Laura , Burstein Dina , Newberry Sydne , Qureshi Nabeel , Feistel Katie , Anderson Kayla N. , Hannan Kelsey , Sege Robert
Published: January 2025

We report the results of a scoping review of the literature investigating associations between positive childhood experiences (PCEs) and selected health outcomes to identify which have the highest level of research activity based on the indexed academic literature. Yielded articles underwent title/abstract (Ti/Ab) and full text screening utilizing inclusion/exclusion criteria. The review was guided by PCE categories from the Healthy Outcomes from Positive Experiences framework: relationships, environment, engagement, and emotional growth. The initial search yielded 8,919 unduplicated articles, 759 were retained following Ti/Ab review and 220 articles were retained after full text screening describing 795 tested associations across 23 PCE types in ten outcome categories. The outcomes most commonly examined were substance misuse (305 tested associations across 93 studies), suicidal behaviors (195 tested associations across 56 studies), and depression (112 tested associations across 55 studies). Physical health outcomes were less common (14 tested associations across six studies). Of the PCE exposures, relationships represented 415 of tested associations, 236 with environment, and 114 with social engagement. A significant body of research demonstrated associations between PCEs and health outcomes. While further research is needed, available research suggests that public health efforts to promote PCEs may have impact across multiple domains.
Analysis of the miRNA Transcriptome in Aconitum vilmorinianum and Its Regulation of Diterpenoid Alkaloid Biosynthesis
Authors: Zhao Xing , Li Yiguo , Shen Jun , Guo Caixia , Li Jie , Chen Mingzhu , Xu Huini , Li Kunzhi
Published: January 2025

Aconitum vilmorinianum (A. vilmorinianum) is an important medicinal plant in the Aconitum genus that is known for its diterpenoid alkaloids, which exhibit significant pharmacological activity and toxicity, thus making it valuable for both medicinal use and as a biopesticide. Although the biosynthesis of terpenoids is well characterized, the potential gene regulatory role of microRNAs (miRNAs) in terpenoid biosynthesis in A. vilmorinianum remains unclear, and further research is needed to explore this aspect in this species. In this study, miRNA sequencing was conducted to analyze the miRNA population and its targets in A. vilmorinianum. A total of 22,435 small RNAs were identified across the nine samples. Through miRNA target gene association analysis, 356 target genes from 54 known miRNAs and 977 target genes from 151 novel miRNAs were identified. Target identification revealed that miR6300 targets the hydroxymethylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) gene, which is involved in the formation of the terpenoid backbone and regulates the synthesis of diterpenoid alkaloids. Additionally, preliminary findings suggest that miR4995 and miR5021 may be involved in the regulation of terpenoid biosynthesis, although further biochemical analysis is needed to confirm these potential roles. This study provides a foundational understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which miRNAs regulate terpenoid biosynthesis in A. vilmorinianum and offers scientific evidence for further research on the biosynthesis of diterpenoid alkaloids in this medicinal plant.
Abamectin Causes Neurotoxicity in Zebrafish Embryos
Authors: Zhang Hongying , Liu Yulong , Huang Yukun , Zhao Kaiwen , Yu Tingting , Wu Youjuan , Yin Zijia , Li Meifeng , Li Dongming , Fan Lihua , Xu Xiaowen , Hu Chengyu , Wang Shanghong
Published: January 2025

Abamectin is an insecticide, miticide and nematicide that has been extensively used in agriculture for many years. The excessive use of abamectin inevitably pollutes water and soil and might even cause adverse effects on aquatic biota. However, it is currently unclear how abamectin exposure causes neurotoxicity in aquatic organisms. Herein, the early neural system development was assessed in zebrafish embryos following abamectin exposure. After treatment with a concentration gradient of abamectin (0.055, 0.0825, 0.11 mg/L), the survival rate, average heart rate, pericardial edema area and yolk sac edema were all documented in zebrafish embryos (96 hpf). It was found that after abamectin exposure, embryonic brain development was impaired, and motor behaviors were also affected. The fluorescence intensity was reduced in the transgenic embryos (Eno2: GFP). The activities of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and ATPase were decreased, and the expression of neurodevelopment-related genes, such as sox10, gap43, grin1b, abat, gad1b, grin2b, nestin and glsa, were all inhibited in zebrafish embryo treatment with abamectin. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species (ROS) were triggered upon exposure to abamectin in zebrafish embryos along with the accumulation of ROS, eventually resulting in neuroapoptosis in the developing embryonic brain. In conclusion, neurodevelopmental toxicity was caused by oxidative stress-induced apoptosis in zebrafish embryos following abamectin exposure.