bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Growth differentiation factor-15 as a biomarker for intensive care unit-acquired weakness: a meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Bing-Han , Qi Meng-Ying , Yang Zheng , He Gui-Lan , Meng Si-Ya
Published: January 2025

Background

Growth differentiation factor-15 (GDF-15) may be a potential biomarker for intensive care unit-acquired weakness (ICU-AW). In this study, we aimed to quantitative analysis the levels of GDF-15 in patients with ICU-AW and in non-ICU-AW, and then to determine its potential diagnostic utility.

Methods

Two researchers separately conducted a systematic search of the relevant studies up to May 2023 in various literature databases (PubMed, Cochrane, Web of Science, Embase, and CINAHL). Studies were selected according to the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and quality evaluation of the included studies was conducted by using QUADAS-2 provided by Review Manager 5.3. The software packages Meta Disc (C1.4) and Stata17.0 were used for the meta-analysis. The data were combined with fixed-effects model, and the summary receiver operating characteristic curve was drawn to evaluate the overall diagnostic accuracy of GDF-15.

Results

We identified 6 eligible studies comprising 401 patients with ICU-AW. The sensitivity, specificity, diagnostic odds ratio (DOR), and area under the curve (AUC) for the discriminative performance of GDF-15 as a diagnostic biomarker were 0.82 (95% confidence interval (CI):0.78–0.86), 0.83 (95% CI: 0.61–0.88), 21.39 (95% CI: 13.36–34.24), and 0.88 (95% CI: 0.85–0.91), respectively.

Conclusion

GDF-15 is a candidate biomarker in diagnosing of ICU-AW from non-ICU-AW.
Genome-wide identification of short-chain dehydrogenases/reductases genes and functional characterization of ApSDR53C2 in melanin biosynthesis in Arthrinium phaeospermum
Authors: Liao Jiao , Wang Yisi , Liu Han , Liu Sijia , Yan Peng , Chen Hang , Li Shujiang
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Arthrinium phaeospermum can cause large areas wilted and death of Bambusa pervariabilis × Dendrocalamopsis grandis, resulting in serious ecological and economic losses. Previous studies found that the appressorium of A. phaeospermum must form to invade the host cells and cause disease. A short-chain dehydrogenase/reductase gene has been shown to maintain the osmotic pressure of the appressorium by synthesizing fungal melanin to penetrate the plant epidermis and cause disease. The SDR gene family of A. phaeospermum was found to be highly expressed during the penetration in the transcriptome sequencing results. Still, the relationship with melanin biosynthesis of A. phaeospermum is not clear.

Methods

We aimed to predict the biological function of the SDR gene family in A. phaeospermum, identify key ApSDR genes with pathogenic roles, and explore the pathogenic mechanism. We have characterized the SDR family of A. pheospermum bioinformatically. Candidate ApSDRs screened by transcriptome sequencing were compared by qPCR experiments to obtain key ApSDRs that may play an important role in infestation and adversity resistance. Knockout mutants, the co-knockout mutant, and backfill mutants of key ApSDRs were obtained for phenotypic and stress conditions analysis. We explored and validated the pathogenic mechanisms through cellulose membrane penetration experiments and analysis of melanin-related gene synthesis levels.

Results and discussion

180 ApSDRs were identified bioinformatically. After screening six candidate ApSDRs with noticeably elevated expression using transcriptome sequencing, qPCR experiments revealed that ApSDR53C2 and ApSDR548U2 had the highest expression. The results of phenotypic and stress conditions analysis indicate that ApSDRs are critical for the growth, development, stress response, and fungicide resistance of A. phaeospermum. The pathogenicity analysis revealed that ApSDR53C2 and ApSDR548U2 play important roles in virulence, with ApSDR53C2 having a stronger effect. A comparison of melanin synthesis levels between wild-type and ΔApSDR53C2 strains showed that ApSDR53C2 positively regulates melanin biosynthesis to promote penetration. The findings demonstrate that ApSDRs are essential for A. phaeospermum to withstand stress and facilitate melanin biosynthesis, which in turn contributes to its virulence.
Improving cognitive impairment through chronic consumption of natural compounds/extracts: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Hoang Long Ngo , Lee Haesung , Lee Sook Jeong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of extended supplementation (≥6 weeks) with natural compounds or extracts in improving cognitive function in patients with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD).

Methods

A comprehensive literature search was conducted across Cochrane, PubMed, PsycARTICLES, Scopus, and Web of Science databases from inception to April 10, 2024. Eligible studies were randomized controlled trials evaluating cognitive outcomes in patients with MCI or AD using the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) and the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS-Cog).

Results

From an initial pool of 6,687 articles, 45 were deemed relevant for qualitative analysis. Of these, 37 studies demonstrated improvements or positive trends in cognitive outcomes with natural compound or extract supplementation. A total of 35 studies met the criteria for meta-analysis. The meta-analysis, involving 4,974 participants, revealed significant improvements in ADAS-Cog scores (pooled standardized mean difference = −2.88, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −4.26 to −1.50; t24 = −4.31, p < 0.01) following supplementation. Additionally, a suggestive trend toward improvement in MMSE scores was observed in a subgroup analysis of 1,717 participants (pooled standardized mean difference = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.06 to 1.46, t18 = 2.27, p = 0.04).

Conclusion

These findings support the potential cognitive benefits of extended (≥6 weeks) supplementation with natural compounds or extracts in individuals with MCI or AD. Further research is warranted to confirm these results and elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Systematic review registration

https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/.
Assessing neuromuscular system via patellar tendon reflex analysis using EMG in healthy individuals
Authors: Khatun Zakia , Kristinsdóttir Sara , Thóra Thórisdóttir Arndís , Björk Halldórsdóttir Linda , Tortorella Francesco , Gargiulo Paolo , Helgason Thordur
Published: January 2025

Patellar tendon reflex tests are essential for evaluating neuromuscular function and identifying abnormalities in nerve conduction and muscle response. This study explored how age, height, weight, and gender influence reflex response times in healthy individuals, providing a reference for future research on different neuromuscular conditions. We analyzed reflex onset, endpoint, and total duration of reflexes using electromyography (EMG) recordings from 40 healthy participants. Reflexes were elicited by striking the patellar tendon, and participants were grouped based on age, height, weight, and gender. We investigated both the individual and combined effects of these factors on reflex response times. Additionally, height and weight-normalized data were analyzed to clarify their roles in influencing reflexes across age groups. Gender-specific analyses were conducted as well to assess potential differences between males and females. Our findings indicated that reflex onset was significantly delayed in elderly individuals, particularly in taller and heavier individuals, and in males compared to females. Even with height normalization, elderly participants showed slower reflexes. Weight-normalized data revealed that younger participants exhibited longer total reflex durations, likely due to their greater height, which impacted nerve conduction time. This trend was consistent across genders, with males generally exhibiting longer duration of reflex response times. These findings provide insights into how different demographic factors, particularly aging, affect neuromuscular reflexes and could serve as a reference for diagnosing and monitoring neuromuscular disorders.
Temporal and geographical dynamics of early-onset Parkinson’s disease burden: insights from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Li Yong , Tan Dianhui , Luo Cheng , Chen Junchen
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Early-onset Parkinson’s disease (EOPD) is a rare degenerative condition of the nervous system that primarily affects individuals of working age. Its distinct clinical and genetic features make it a critical area of study in neurological research and public health.

Methods and materials

This analysis utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, covering 371 diseases and injuries across 204 countries and territories from 1990 to 2021. The study focused on individuals aged 15–49 to characterize EOPD. Data on occurrence, frequency, mortality, and disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) were collected. Sociodemographic measures were used to analyze patterns and differences. Statistical methods, including joinpoint regression and decomposition analysis, were employed to identify temporal patterns and factors influencing variations in EOPD burden over time.

Results

The global incidence of EOPD saw a significant increase between 2000 and 2009, with an average annual percentage change (AAPC) of 4.3%, continuing at a slower rate (AAPC 1.6%) from 2010 to 2021. By 2021, the incidence reached 2.1 cases per 100,000 population, up from 1.0 in 1990. Males had a higher incidence (AAPC 2.3%) compared to females (AAPC 0.8%). In 2021, 59.7% of the 81,047 global EOPD cases were male. Significant increases were observed in East Asia (AAPC 5.1%), Andean Latin America (AAPC 2.0%), and North Africa/Middle East (AAPC 1.1%), with a decline in High-income North America. China had the highest incidence in 2021 (5.17 cases per 100,000), followed by Peru and Bolivia. Saudi Arabia had the highest DALYs attributable to EOPD. The decomposition study indicated that the rise in global incidence and DALYs from 1990 to 2021 was mainly driven by epidemiological changes and population growth, with regional variations in impact.

Conclusion

This global analysis highlights the need for targeted interventions and research to address gender-specific risk factors, regional disparities, and the effects of epidemiological changes on the growing EOPD burden.
Quercetin attenuates cisplatin-induced fatigue through mechanisms associated with the regulation of the HPA axis and MCP-1 signaling
Authors: Chuang Cheng-Hung , Tai Yu-An , Wu Ting-Jing , Ho Ying-Jui , Yeh Shu-Lan
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Cancer-related fatigue (CRF) is a common symptom induced by chemotherapy. The main objective of the present study was to investigate whether quercetin regulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) signaling, two factors contributing to CRF in mice exposed to cisplatin.

Methods

Male BALB/c mice were randomly assigned to the following five groups for 15 weeks: Control, CDDP, CDDP+TAK779 (an antagonist of MCP-1 receptor, human CC chemokine receptor R2 (CCR2)), CDDP+OQ (a diet containing 1% quercetin) and CDDP+IQ (quercetin given by ip, 10 mg/kg, 3 times/week).

Results

The results first showed that OQ and IQ significantly increased grip strength and locomotor activity, decreased plasma cortisol/corticosterone levels, and decreased the corticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) mRNA level in the brain tissues in mice exposed to CDDP. OQ and IQ also decreased CDDP-induced plasma levels of MCP-1 as well as the mRNA expression of MCP-1 and CCR2 in the brain stem. TAK779 significantly increased grip strength and tended to decrease the cortisol/corticosterone levels in CDDP-exposed mice, indicating the association between the HPA axis and MCP-1 signaling.

Conclusion

Taken together, the study suggests that quercetin could attenuate CDDP-induced CRF through the mechanisms associated with downregulation of the HPA axis and MCP-1 signaling in mice.
Daratumumab treatment for kidney-involved light chain deposition disease prevents renal function progression: a case report with 3 years of follow-up and review of the literature
Authors: Chen Xueying , Sun Jie , Shen Pingyan , Chen Zijin , Zhang Wen
Published: January 2025

Light chain deposition disease (LCDD) is a clonal plasma cell disorder characterized by the deposition of nonamyloid monoclonal light chains in multiple organs. It can affect various systems throughout the body, mainly the kidneys. Symptoms may include renal insufficiency, proteinuria, hematuria, and others. Due to the lack of effective treatment, LCDD patients with kidney involvement often progress to chronic kidney failure, ultimately requiring renal replacement therapy. Daratumumab, an anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody, is primarily used for the treatment of relapsed and refractory multiple myeloma. Recent studies have shown that daratumumab also has an encouraging effect on light-chain amyloidosis. Here, we report the case of an LCDD (κ chain) patient with proteinuria, renal insufficiency, and anemia who was followed up for 3 years, during which he received daratumumab treatment. After the daratumumab treatment, the hematologic response continued progressing to a complete response without any adverse effects and continuous renal function improvement at a low serum free light chain (sFLC) level. This case shows that daratumumab is effective at treating LCDD. For LCDD patients with kidney involvement, frequent monitoring and active control of free light chain levels are necessary, as reaching the lowest sFLC of < 20 mg/L may help to improve kidney function.
Effects of dexmedetomidine-ropivacaine assisted combined spinal-epidural anesthesia on neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio and postoperative delirium in elderly patients with intertrochanteric femoral fracture
Authors: Bai Lili , Zhao Lina , Jia Fang , Liu Ying , Li Ping
Published: January 2025

Objective

Intertrochanteric femoral fracture (IFF) is a public issue in the old. Combined spinal-epidural anesthesia (CSEA) is commonly utilized for lower limb orthopedic surgery in elderly patients. Therefore, this study explored the application of dexmedetomidine (Dex) and ropivacaine (Rop) assisted CSEA in elderly IFF patients.

Methods

Totally 187 elderly IFF patients were assigned into the Rop assisted CSEA (Rop-CSEA), low-dose Dex-Rop assisted CSEA (low Dex and Rop-CSEA) and high-dose Dex-Rop assisted CSEA (high Dex and Rop-CSEA) groups. We compared block effects, hemodynamic indicators [heart rate (HR)/respiratory rate (RR)/mean arterial pressure (MAP)] at time before anesthesia (T0)/skin incision (T1)/10 min postoperatively (T2)/suture postoperatively (T3)/anesthesia recovery (T4), postoperative pain mediator release [substance P (SP)/prostaglandin E2 (PGE2)/5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)], neutrophil-lymphocyte ratio (NLR), adverse reactions, delirium and cognitive dysfunction incidence.

Results

Compared with the Rop-CSEA group, low/high Dex and Rop-CSEA groups had shortened onset times, prolonged recovery times in sensory/motor block, elevated HR/RR/MAP, repressed pain mediator release, and reduced postoperative delirium and cognitive dysfunction incidences. HR/RR/MAP exhibited reductions followed by elevations at T2-T4, and SP/PGE2/5-HT levels revealed elevations in all groups postoperatively. NLR level displayed enhancement followed by reduction, and NLR in the low/high Dex and Rop-CSEA groups was abated on postoperative days 1–5. Total incidence of adverse reactions in the high Dex and Rop-CSEA group was enhanced.

Conclusion

Dex and Rop assisted CSEA shortens the onset time of anesthesia, maintains perioperative hemodynamic stability, inhibits pain mediator release, reduces postoperative NLR level and the incidence of delirium and cognitive dysfunction in IFF patients.
Case report: Infantile pulmonary alveolar proteinosis associated with cytosolic isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase deficiency
Authors: Wu Jie , Fan Yimu , Huo Feng , Deng Jie , Wang Quan , Shen Yuelin
Published: January 2025

Cytosolic isoleucyl-tRNA synthetase (IARS1) deficiency, an exceptionally rare autosomal recessive inherited disorder, is characterized by multiple system involvement, including growth retardation, intellectual developmental disorder, hypotonia, and hepatopathy. Pulmonary alveolar proteinosis (PAP) is a rare phenotype of IARS1 deficiency, having been reported in only two siblings from the same family. In this study, we present a case of IARS1 deficiency in a 5-month-old boy, who exhibited PAP as the initial and predominant manifestation. Additionally, whole-exome sequencing identified compound heterozygous variants in the IARS1 gene (c.2428C>T/c.128T>C), both of which are novel observations.
Deciphering the heterogeneity and plasticity of the tumor microenvironment in liver cancer provides insights for prognosis
Authors: Sun Yihao , Shi Guojuan , Yang Jian , Zhou Chun-Zhong , Peng Chuhan , Luo Yu-Hong , Pan Ying , Wang Rui-Qi
Published: January 2025

Liver cancer exhibits diverse molecular characteristics and distinct immune cell infiltration patterns, which significantly influence patient outcomes. In this study, we thoroughly examined the liver cancer tumor environment by analyzing data from 419,866 individual cells across nine datasets involving 99 patients. By categorizing patients into different groups based on their immune cell profiles, including immune deficiency, B cells-enriched, T cells-enriched and macrophages-enriched, we better understood how these cells change in various patient subgroups. Our investigation of liver metastases from intestinal cancer uncovered a group of mast cells that might promote metastasis through pathways like inositol phosphate metabolism. Using genomic and clinical data from The Cancer Genome Atlas, we identified specific cell components linked to tumor characteristics and genetics. Our detailed study of cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) revealed how they adapt and acquire new functions in the tissue environment, highlighting their flexibility. Additionally, we found a significant connection between CAF-related genes and the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma patients. This research provides valuable insights into the makeup of the liver cancer tumor environment and its profound impact on patient outcomes, offering fresh perspectives for managing this challenging disease.
A segmentation method for LiDAR point clouds of aerial slender targets
Authors: Huang Birong , Wang Zilong , Chen Jianhua , Zhou Bingyang , Ma Hao
Published: January 2025

LiDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is an essential device for capturing the depth information of objects. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) can sense the surrounding environment through LiDAR and image sensors to make autonomous flight decisions. In this process, aerial slender targets, such as overhead power lines, pose a threat to the flight safety of UAVs. These targets have complex backgrounds, elongated shapes, and small reflection cross-sections, making them difficult to detect directly from LiDAR point clouds. To address this issue, this paper takes overhead power line as a representative example of aerial slender targets and proposes a method that utilizes visible light images to guide the segmentation of LiDAR point clouds under large depth of field conditions. The method introduces an image segmentation algorithm based on a voting mechanism for overhead power lines and designs a calibration algorithm for LiDAR point clouds and images in the scenarios with large depth of field. Experimental results demonstrate that in various complex scenes, this method can segment the LiDAR point clouds of overhead power lines, thereby achieving accurate positions and exhibiting good adaptability across multiple scenes. Compared to traditional point cloud segmentation methods, the segmentation accuracy of the proposed method is significantly improved, promoting the practical application of LiDAR.
Soil chemical factors contributing to differences in bacterial communities among tea field soils and their relationships with tea quality
Authors: Zhang Shuning , Yanagisawa Naoki , Asahina Mio , Yamashita Hiroto , Ikka Takashi
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Soil chemical properties and bacterial communities play key roles in shaping tea plant nutrient status and quality. While the relationships between soil bacterial communities and plant nutrient status have been investigated, the specific role by which soil bacterial communities interacted with soil properties to influence tea plant nutrients and quality remained underexplored.

Methods

In this study, different soil types were collected from tea gardens and designated as soil A (pH 3.41), soil B (pH 3.75), soil C (pH 4.16), soil D (pH 4.17) and soil E (pH 5.56) based on the initial soil pH. We conducted pot cultivation of tea plant ‘Yabukita’ to investigate how soil chemical factors affect bacterial communities and their influences on the nutrient status and quality of tea plants, and finally explored the complex relationships between soil bacterial features and tea quality.

Results and discussion

The results showed that soil bacterial α-diversity was higher level in soils D and E, with distinct β-diversity patterns separating higher pH soils (D and E) from lower pH soils (A, B, and C). The dominant amplicon sequence variants (ASVs) in soils were Proteobacteria (28.12%), Actinobacteriota (25.65%), Firmicutes (9.99%) at phylum level, and Acidothermaceae (7.24%), Solirubrobacteraceae (4.85%), and Acetobacteraceae (4.50%) at family level. Soil pH, exchangeable Mg2+, and Ca2+ were identified as key factors shaping bacterial community composition and positively correlated with bacterial diversity. Differentially abundant ASVs (DAAs) among all soils were also identified including the phylum Firmicutes and families such as Paenibacillaceae, Alicyclobacillaceae, JG36-TzT-191, KF-JG30-C25, and Acidobacteriaceae_subgroup1. Besides, the nutrient content of tea new leaves varied significantly among soil types and harvests. Combined with Mantel-test association analysis, soil chemical properties and soil bacterial communities were jointly correlated with the contents of total nitrogen, potassium, calcium, aluminum, magnesium, free amino acids, and caffeine in tea new leaves. These findings highlight the dynamic interactions between soil properties, bacterial communities, and tea nutrients, emphasizing the importance of optimizing soil health and bacterial networks to improve tea quality.
Crisis and constitutional politics in Central Europe
Authors: Smuk Peter
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to examine the impact of significant crisis situations on the constitutional framework over the past decade, including financial crisis, migration, pandemics and war. The paper focuses on the Visegrad countries, especially Hungary, and analyses the constitutional amendments adopted and the relevant constitutional court decisions. By examining the justifications for the amendments and decisions, it is possible to observe the efforts of legislators and governing parties to overcome difficult governance situations in crisis management. The study aims to interpret the relationship between constitutional responses to social crises and crises of democratic political systems, and argues that the inherent feature of constitutional changes triggered by crises is that they remain part of the political system in the longer term. In turn, their impact determines not only the resilience of states and societies, but also the direction in which democratic systems evolve.
Individual, collective and contextual dimensions of sustainable lifestyle change in daily life contexts: an integrated perspective
Authors: De Gregorio Eugenio , Carrus Giuseppe , Klöckner Christian Andreas , Löfström Erica , Similä Lassi , Brenner-Fliesser Michael
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to develop a conceptual and theoretical perspective on sustainable lifestyle change according to a multidisciplinary approach. In particular, we discuss the interplay between three orders of factors that, according to the literature and to our conceptual model, are relevant in shaping sustainable lifestyles and lifestyle change in people daily life contexts, such as their living neighbourhoods. The three orders of factors are the following: (1) Individual level factors (as typically present and discussed in the environmental psychology literature; e.g., attitudes, values, beliefs, intentions, emotions, connection to nature, etc.); (2) Collective level factors (as typically present and discussed in the social psychology and sociology literature; e.g., social capital, social norms, social and place identity, sense of community, place attachment, energy memories & energy cultures); (3) Contextual factors (as typically present and discussed in the environmental science and economic literature; e.g., regulations, technology, infrastructures, economic resources, etc.). For each of these three levels, we will present and discuss some classical and recent literature findings, and we will provide a summary of the current state of the art knowledge about sustainable lifestyle adoption in neighbourhoods’ contexts.
Multidimensional evaluation of nutritional security policies in the Republic of Moldova: gaps, progress, and alignment with international standards
Authors: Siminiuc Rodica , Țurcanu Dinu , Siminiuc Sergiu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Nutritional security is increasingly recognized as a critical component of public health, particularly in addressing the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. In the Republic of Moldova, rapid changes in food availability and consumption patterns have intensified the need for robust public policies to promote healthy dietary habits.

Methods

This study evaluates Moldova’s public policies on nutritional security using a multidimensional model adapted from the Policy Evaluation Network framework. The model assesses five key policy categories: educational, strategic, labeling, monitoring, and fiscal policies, through a comprehensive 28-indicator structure.

Results

The findings indicate that Moldova’s policy efforts in nutritional security are at a “satisfactory” level, with foundational strategies in place but significant gaps in policy cohesion, implementation, and monitoring. Educational and strategic policies show moderate progress, yet labeling, monitoring, and fiscal policies are underdeveloped, limiting their impact on public health.

Discussion

The results emphasize the need for a more coordinated, multi-sectoral approach, incorporating targeted fiscal incentives, systematic monitoring frameworks, and comprehensive educational reforms.
Ethical concerns in contemporary virtual reality and frameworks for pursuing responsible use
Authors: Raja Urooj S. , Al-Baghli Reem
Published: January 2025

Researchers have identified various ethical issues related to the use of VR. For example, issues of consent, privacy and harm. It is important to address these issues as VR impacts various industries, including communications, education and entertainment. Existing ethical frameworks in particular may be the closest tool we have when it comes to understanding how to curb some of the ethical challenges that the technology presents. Recent work names ethical concerns related to VR, such as privacy and accessibility; however, we note that less discuss frameworks that can be used to guide responsible VR use. Such work also glosses over what various audiences think about ethical issues. This information in turn could be used to determine which existing frameworks can provide guidance for responsible use. To address this gap, we examine current literature, government documents, and conduct an analysis of 300 Amazon reviews of three top-rated VR products—to see whether and what ethical concerns various audiences identify. That is, we ask two questions: 1) Are three specific types of audiences naming ethical VR issues, and if so, what are the issues? 2) What frameworks could potentially guide users toward responsible use? We find that users are concerned about ethical issues and that three frameworks could guide us towards more responsible VR use: 1) Institutional Review Board (IRB) frameworks, 2) a care ethics framework, and 3) co-created, living ethical codes. We further pull from these three frameworks to offer a new ethical synthesis framework or ESF framework that could guide responsible use.
Gender identity and perception in virtual spaces: the impact of avatar gender transition on the ZEPETO platform
Authors: Kang Jiyoung , Rhee Hyunjung
Published: January 2025

This study examines how avatar gender transitions in the metaverse influence user identity and gender perception, focusing on the cultural and social implications of these experiences. Conducted on the ZEPETO platform, the research involved female participants adopting male avatars to explore the effects on identity confirmation and self-identification. The study analyzes how metaverse elements, such as avatar representation, embodiment perception, and avatar-space interaction, contribute to identity formation and challenge traditional gender norms. Results indicate that transitioning to male avatars enhances avatar identification and identity confirmation, with these effects extending to users’ real-world gender identities. These findings highlight the metaverse’s potential as a transformative space for exploring and reshaping gender identities, emphasizing the need for further research into the cultural and spatial dynamics of virtual environments.
Settlement deservingness perceptions of climate change, economic, and political migrant groups across partisan lines
Authors: Aksit Defne , Laenen Tijs
Published: January 2025

International migration is a prevailing issue of our times. With opponents of multicultural societies becoming more vocal across Europe, it is pivotal to strengthen our knowledge of how migrants are popularly perceived in receiving countries. Prior research suggests that there is remarkable agreement within different countries as to which types of migrants are seen as deserving of settlement, cutting across deep-rooted partisan divides. Building on the CARIN deservingness theory, this article sheds new light on this so-called “hidden immigration consensus” by investigating Americans’ original perceptions of different migrant groups rather than following the standard practice of assessing how they react to a set of pre-defined migrant characteristics in a conjoint experiment. Based on a split-sample experiment, our results show that liberals and conservatives significantly differ in their perceptions of political, economic, and climate change migrants on four of the five CARIN criteria. Liberals differentiate between migrants on control, attitude, and identity criteria, whereas conservatives only distinguish on the control criterion. Liberals rate all migrant groups twice as deserving as conservatives. The implications for the settlement deservingness model and the hidden consensus hypothesis are discussed.
Effects of different Lys/Met ratios on the antioxidant capacity, tissue morphology, and fatty acid composition of subcutaneous fat in Tibetan sheep on low-protein diets: a lipidomic analysis
Authors: Sa Rengeerli , Zhang Fengshuo , Zhang Xianhua , Gao Wei , Zhang Yu , Gan Jiacheng , Hou Shengzhen , Gui Linsheng
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study employed lipidomics to investigate the effects of varying lysine (Lys)- to-methionine (Met) ratios on the antioxidant capacity, tissue morphology, and fatty acid composition of subcutaneous fat in Tibetan sheep fed a low-protein diet.

Methods

Ninety healthy male Tibetan sheep of similar body weight were randomly allocated into three groups. These sheep were fed a low-protein diet containing Lys/Met ratios of 1:1, 2:1, and 3:1. Ultra-High Performance Liquid Chromatography–tandem Mass Spectrometry (UHPLC–MS/MS) was employed to explore the changes in various lipid subclasses in subcutaneous adipose tissue. The expression of genes associated with adipogenesis, antioxidant capacity, and fatty acid metabolism was also examined.

Results

The results indicated that the 1:1 Lys/Met group exhibited significantly higher antioxidant capacity (glutathione peroxidase, GSH-Px), with more orderly adipocyte arrangement, uniform cell size, and a general increase in unsaturated fatty acid levels. Additionally, several lipid molecules associated with the phenotype (Antioxidant index and fatty acid content) were identified, namely, DG(38:3e) + Na, PE(17:1_22:2)-H, PI(17:0_20:3)-H, TG(33:0e) + NH4, Cer(d14:0_17:1) + H, and CL(81:13)-2H. Furthermore, the findings showed that the upregulation of PPARγ, FASN, FAD4, CPT1A, and GPX4 can enhance adipocyte differentiation and lipid accumulation, thereby improving metabolic function in subcutaneous adipose tissue via the regulation of lipid metabolism and oxidative defense mechanisms.

Discussion

In summary, this study provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing precision feeding strategies for Tibetan sheep, offering crucial data to support enhancements in production efficiency and meat quality.
A Comparative Analysis of Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Methods and Normalization Techniques in Holistic Sustainability Assessment for Engineering Applications
Authors: Malefaki Sonia , Markatos Dionysios , Filippatos Angelos , Pantelakis Spiros
Published: January 2025

The sustainability evaluation of engineering processes and structures is a multifaceted challenge requiring the integration of diverse and often conflicting criteria. To address this challenge, Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) methods have emerged as effective tools. However, the selection of the most suitable MCDM approach for problems involving multiple criteria is critical to ensuring robust, reliable, and actionable outcomes. Equally significant is the choice of a proper normalization technique, which plays a pivotal role in determining the robustness and reliability of the results. This study investigates the impact of common MCDM tools on the decision-making process concerning diverse aspects of sustainability. It also examines how different normalization methods influence the final outcomes. Sustainability in this context is understood as a trade-off among five key dimensions: performance, environmental impact, economic impact, social impact, and circularity. The outcome of the MCDM process is represented by an aggregated metric, referred to as the Sustainability Index (SI). This index offers a comprehensive and robust framework for evaluating sustainability and facilitating decision-making when conflicting criteria are present. To assess the effects of implementing different MCDM and normalization choices on the sustainability assessment, a dataset from the aviation sector is employed. Specifically, a typical aircraft component is analyzed as a case study for holistic sustainability assessment, utilizing data that represent the various dimensions of sustainability mentioned above, for this component. Additionally, the study investigates the influence of initial data variations and weight variations within the MCDM process on the results. The results indicate that, overall, the different MCDM and normalization methods lead to similar outcomes when applied to the design alternatives. However, a deeper dive into the results reveals that the weighted sum method, when paired with min-max normalization, appears to be more appropriate, based on the use case involved for the present investigation, due to its robustness regarding small variations in the initial data and its sensitivity to large ones. This research underscores the critical importance of selecting appropriate MCDM tools and normalization methods to enhance transparency, robustness, reliability, and consistency of sustainability assessments within a holistic framework.
A Comparison of Modern Metaheuristics for Multi-Objective Optimization of Transonic Aeroelasticity in a Tow-Steered Composite Wing
Authors: Phuekpan Kantinan , Khammee Rachata , Panagant Natee , Bureerat Sujin , Pholdee Nantiwat , Wansasueb Kittinan
Published: January 2025

This study proposes a design procedure for the multi-objective aeroelastic optimization of a tow-steered composite wing structure that operates at transonic speed. The aerodynamic influence coefficient matrix is generated using the doublet lattice method, with the steady-state component further refined through high-fidelity computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis to enhance accuracy in transonic conditions. Finite element analysis (FEA) is used to perform structural analysis. A multi-objective transonic aeroelastic optimization problem is formulated for the tow-steered composite wing structure, where the objective functions are designed for mass and critical speed, and the design constraints include structural and aeroelastic limits. A comparative analysis of eight state-of-the-art algorithms is conducted to evaluate their performance in solving this problem. Among them, the Multi-Objective Multi-Verse Optimization (MOMVO) algorithm stands out, demonstrating superior performance and achieving the best results in the aeroelastic optimization task.
Canopy Segmentation of Overlapping Fruit Trees Based on Unmanned Aerial Vehicle LiDAR
Authors: Wang Shiji , Ji Jie , Zhao Lijun , Li Jiacheng , Zhang Mian , Li Shengling
Published: January 2025

Utilizing LiDAR sensors mounted on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to acquire three-dimensional data of fruit orchards and extract precise information about individual trees can greatly facilitate unmanned management. To address the issue of low accuracy in traditional watershed segmentation methods based on canopy height models, this paper proposes an enhanced method to extract individual tree crowns in fruit orchards, enabling the improved detection of overlapping crown features. Firstly, a distribution curve of single-row or single-column treetops is fitted based on the detected treetops using variable window size. Subsequently, a cubic spatial region extending infinitely along the Z-axis is generated with equal width around this curve, and all crown points falling within this region are extracted and then projected onto the central plane. The projecting contour of the crowns on the plane is then fitted using Gaussian functions. Treetops are detected by identifying peak points on the curve fitted by Gaussian functions. Finally, the watershed algorithm is applied to segment fruit tree crowns. The results demonstrate that in citrus orchards with pronounced crown overlap, this novel method significantly reduces the number of undetected trees with a recall of 97.04%, and the F1 score representing the detection accuracy for fruit trees reaches 98.01%. Comparisons between the traditional method and the Gaussian fitting–watershed fusion algorithm across orchards exhibiting varying degrees of crown overlap reveal that the fusion algorithm achieves high segmentation accuracy when dealing with overlapping crowns characterized by significant height variations.
Spatial Evaluation of Salurnis marginella Occurrence According to Climate Change Using Multiple Species Distribution Models
Authors: Song Jae-Woo , Seo Jaho , Lee Wang-Hee
Published: January 2025

Salurnis marginella causes agricultural and forest damage in various Asian environments. However, considering the environmental adaptability of pests and the active international trade, it may invade other regions in the future. As the damage to local communities caused by pests becomes difficult to control after invasion, it is essential to establish measures to minimize losses through pre-emptive monitoring and identification of high-risk areas, which can be achieved through model-based predictions. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential distribution of S. marginella by developing multiple species distribution modeling (SDM) algorithms. Specifically, we developed the CLIMEX model and three machine learning-based models (MaxEnt, random forest, and multi-layer perceptron), integrated them to conservatively assess pest occurrence under current and future climates, and overlaid the host distribution with climatically suitable areas of S. marginella to identify high-risk areas vulnerable to the spread and invasion of the pest. The developed model, demonstrating a true skill statistic >0.8, predicted the potential continuous distribution of the species across the southeastern United States, South America, and Central Africa. This distribution currently covers approximately 9.53% of the global land area; however, the model predicted this distribution would decrease to 6.85%. Possible areas of spread were identified in Asia and the southwestern United States, considering the host distribution. This study provides data for the proactive monitoring of pests by identifying areas where S. marginella can spread.
Research and Development of an IoT Smart Irrigation System for Farmland Based on LoRa and Edge Computing
Authors: Zhang Ying , Wang Xingchen , Jin Liyong , Ni Jun , Zhu Yan , Cao Weixing , Jiang Xiaoping
Published: January 2025

In response to the current key issues in the field of smart irrigation for farmland, such as the lack of data sources and insufficient integration, a low degree of automation in drive execution and control, and over-reliance on cloud platforms for analyzing and calculating decision making processes, we have developed nodes and gateways for smart irrigation. These developments are based on the EC-IOT edge computing IoT architecture and long range radio (LoRa) communication technology, utilizing STM32 MCU, WH-101-L low-power LoRa modules, 4G modules, high-precision GPS, and other devices. An edge computing analysis and decision model for smart irrigation in farmland has been established by collecting the soil moisture and real-time meteorological information in farmland in a distributed manner, as well as integrating crop growth period and soil properties of field plots. Additionally, a mobile mini-program has been developed using WeChat Developer Tools that interacts with the cloud via the message queuing telemetry transport (MQTT) protocol to realize data visualization on the mobile and web sides and remote precise irrigation control of solenoid valves. The results of the system wireless communication tests indicate that the LoRa-based sensor network has stable data transmission with a maximum communication distance of up to 4 km. At lower communication rates, the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and received signal strength indication (RSSI) values measured at long distances are relatively higher, indicating better communication signal quality, but they take longer to transmit. It takes 6 s to transmit 100 bytes at the lowest rate of 0.268 kbps to a distance of 4 km, whereas, at 10.937 kbps, it only takes 0.9 s. The results of field irrigation trials during the wheat grain filling stage have demonstrated that the irrigation amount determined based on the irrigation algorithm can maintain the soil moisture content after irrigation within the suitable range for wheat growth and above 90% of the upper limit of the suitable range, thereby achieving a satisfactory irrigation effect. Notably, the water content in the 40 cm soil layer has the strongest correlation with changes in crop evapotranspiration, and the highest temperature is the most critical factor influencing the water requirements of wheat during the grain-filling period in the test area.
Effects of Deficit Irrigation and Intercropping of Dry Beans with Two African Leafy Vegetable Crops on Growth and Yield
Authors: Lekgoathi Boitumelo Patience , Kgopa Pholosho Mmateko , Soundy Puffy
Published: January 2025

The instability between water demand and availability is making it challenging to cultivate viable, sustainable crops. To address this, improved irrigation scheduling regimes need to be adopted, focusing on full crop water requirements to determine optimal water allocation. This study aimed to identify suitable intercropping combinations of leguminous dry bean plants with indigenous African leafy vegetables (specifically cleome gynandra and cucumis myriocarpus) that could enhance interactions with regulated deficit irrigation. The experiment was designed in 3 (irrigation levels: 100%, 75%, and 50%) × 5 (three monocrops and two intercrops) split plot arrangement within a randomized complete block design (RCBD), replicated three times across four growth stages. The study was designed to rigorously assess the effectiveness of two intercrops compared to three monocrops, each cultivated under varying irrigation levels of 100%, 75%, and 50%. There was an increase in selected gaseous parameters, such as stomatal conductance and photosynthesis rates when dry beans were intercropped with cucumis myriocarpus and subjected to 75% deficit irrigation during the mid-pod stage of the dry bean. In contrast, decreased gaseous parameters were noted under a 50% deficit irrigation across all dry bean growth stages, which also negatively affected the growth of African leafy crops. Regarding yield, an inverse relationship was observed between the crops. The yield of dry beans significantly increased under 75% irrigation during the mid-pod stage. Meanwhile, yields of cucumis myriocarpus increased under both 75% and 100% irrigation levels during the early-pod stage of the dry beans, which corresponded to the vegetative stage of the two African leafy crops. In conclusion, regulating irrigation under 75% deficit irrigation during the mid-growth stage is recommended as an ideal irrigation level for intercropping dry beans with cucumis myriocarpus, and this can potentially save 25% of water.
Occurrence and Distribution of Root-Knot Nematodes Meloidogyne spp. in Serbia
Authors: Bačić Jasmina , Lalićević Ivana , Širca Saša , Theuerschuh Melita , Susič Nik , Gerič Stare Barbara
Published: January 2025

This study examines the occurrence and distribution of root-knot nematodes (RKN), Meloidogyne spp., in Serbia through an official survey conducted from 2021 to 2023. A total of 241 plant and soil samples were collected from 25 districts across two regions: Northern Serbia (Vojvodina Province) and Central Serbia. RKN infestations were detected in 23.7% of the samples. Among the 57 identified populations, 5 Meloidogyne species were recorded: M. incognita, M. hapla, M. luci, M. arenaria and M. javanica. Meloidogyne luci was reported in Serbia for the first time, marking a significant finding for nematology in the region. This study highlights the importance of implementing effective pest management strategies to mitigate the agricultural impact of RKN in Serbia.