bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of potassium oxonate with anti-PD-1 for the treatment of colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Yuanyuan , Hu Chenxi , Du Tianpeng , Li Jiawen , Hui Kaiyuan , Jiang Xiaodong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Identification of effective therapies for colorectal cancer (CRC) remains an urgent medical need, especially for the microsatellite stable (MSS) phenotype. In our previous study, potassium oxonate (PO), a uricase inhibitor commonly used for elevating uric acid in mice, unexpectedly showed remarkable inhibition of tumor growth when combined with anti-programmed death-1 (PD-1). Further research demonstrated that the combination of potassium oxonate and anti-PD-1 could reprogram the immune microenvironment. This study aimed to explore the anti-tumor effect of PO combined with anti-PD-1, and investigate the impact on the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment (TME).

Methods

We established a syngeneic mouse model of CRC and divided into groups of control group, single drugs group of PO and anti-PD-1, and the combination group. Use the HE staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC) and TUNEL staining of tumor issues to verify the anti-neoplasm of each group. We also tested the changes of TME through flow cytometry of spleen of mice in each group, as well as the IHC of cytokines.

Results

The co-therapy of PO and anti-PD-1 showed admirable anti-tumor effect compared with the control group and the single drug groups. The TME were tended to an environment beneficial for killing tumors by enhancing chemotactic factor release, increasing CD8+ T cell infiltration and activation, and decreasing the amount of regulatory T cells. Moreover, IFN-γ and IL-2 secretion were found to be enriched in the tumor TME.

Conclusion

Our study indicated that combination of PO and anti-PD-1 could synergistically suppress CRC progression and altered the tumor microenvironment in favor of antitumor immune responses.
Cervical cancer burden and attributable risk factors across different age and regions from 1990 to 2021 and future burden prediction: results from the global burden of disease study 2021
Authors: Cheng Lu-yao , Zhao Ji-qi , Zou Ting-ting , Xu Zhong-hua , Lv Yin
Published: February 2025

Background

Cervical cancer (CC) is a global public health problem. We aimed to evaluate the global and regional CC burden between 1990 and 2021, identify the attributable risk factors, and project its burden up to 2035.

Methods

Data were extracted from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, and the CC incidence, mortality, age-standardized incidence rate (ASIR), age-standardized death rate (ASDR), age-standardized disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and attributable risk factors from 1990 to 2021 were analyzed. The impacts of geographical variations, different age groups, and the socio-demographic index (SDI) on CC morbidity and mortality measurements were assessed. The attributable risk factors to CC death and DALY were evaluated, and the incidence, mortality, and DALYs to 2035 were projected.

Results

Globally, the number of CC cases has increased from 409,548.49 cases in 1990 to 667,426.40 cases in 2021. However, the ASIR decreased from 18.11 to 15.32 per 100,000, with the greatest ASIR decrease in high SDI regions (estimated annual percentage change: -1.41). Between 1990 and 2021, the global ASDR decreased from 9.68 to 6.62 per 100,000, and the rate of age-standardized DALYs decreased from 330.11 to 226.28 per 100,000. However, these improvements were not consistent across different SDI regions. The CC incidence was the highest in the 55-59 age group, globally. The risk factors, which included unsafe sex and smoke, significantly varied by region. The global ASIR exhibited a downward trend from 2021 to 2035.

Conclusion

From 1990 to 2021, although the overall trend in incidence, mortality, and DALYs of CC exhibited a global and regional downward trend, there were significant disparities among areas with different socioeconomic development. More efficient targeted prevention and management strategies, easy access to health care in less developed regions, and risk factor modifications should be promoted, in order to reduce the global burden of CC.
The impact of precompetition state on athletic performance among track and field athletes using machine learning
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Fu Pengyu , Yu Qi , Niu Qingmei , Nie Dongfeng , Dou Xiangya , Zhang Xiaoqin
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aims to compare the differences in the precompetition status (nutritional, physiological, biochemical, psychological, and sleep statuses) among college track and field athletes with different competition performances and to screen for key indicators of differences affecting athletic performance.

Methods

Multiple indicators, traditional methods, and machine learning methods are used to detect the exercise load, fatigue index, and precompetition state of athletes with different sports performances.

Results

(1) Two weeks before the competition, the fat mass in the left upper limb in the BP group was significantly higher than that in the BnP group (P < 0.05). The absolute values of blood basophils and triglycerides (TGs) in the BnP group were significantly higher than those in the BP group (P < 0.05). The positive detection rate of urinary leukocytes in the BnP group was higher than that in the BP group, and the positive detection rate of urinary occult blood and vitamin C in the BP group was higher than that in the BnP group. (2) One week before the competition, the blood lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) in the BP group was significantly higher than that in the BnP group (P < 0.05). The detection rate of positive urinary occult blood in the BnP group was higher than that in the BP group (P < 0.05). (3) No significant differences were found in the daily dietary intake, energy consumption values, physical activity, sleep efficiency, real-time heart rate, real-time respiratory rate, and real-time heart rate variability between the intensive and reduced periods. (4) The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale score of the BnP group was significantly higher than that of the BP group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Precompetition absolute basophil, LDH, TG, white blood cells, creatine kinase, fat mass in the left upper limb, erythrocyte pressure (HCT), and individual failure anxiety can be used as training monitoring indicators that focus on tracking athlete status before the race.
Genomic, transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses of Amorphophallus albus provides insights into the evolution and resistance to southern blight pathogen
Authors: Duan Longfei , Qin Jianfeng , Zhou Gaoxin , Shen Chuan , Qin Baofu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Amorphophallus albus, a perennial herb in the Araceae family, is a valuable cash crop known for its high production of konjac glucomannan and high disease resistance.

Methods

In this study, we present a high-quality, chromosome-scale genome assembly of A. albus using a combination of PacBio HiFi sequencing, DNBSEQ short-read sequencing, and Hi-C technology. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying southern blight resistance, we performed an integrated analysis of transcriptomic and metabolomic profiles across three infection stages of A. albus.

Results and discussion

Here, we assembled and annotated the complete genome of A. albus, providing a chromosome-level assembly with a total genome size of 5.94 Gb and a contig N50 of 5.61 Mb. The A. albus genome comprised 19,908 gene families, including 467 unique families.The slightly larger genome size of A. albus compared to A. konjac may have been affected by a recent whole-genome duplication event. Transcriptional and metabolic analyses revealed significant enrichment of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) involved in phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, plant hormone signal transduction, phenylalanine metabolism, and the biosynthesis of phenylalanine, tyrosine, and tryptophan. These findings not only advance the understanding of genetic and evolutionary characteristics of A. albus but also provide a foundation for future research on the resistance mechanisms of konjac against southern blight disease.
A gene expression atlas of Nicotiana tabacum across various tissues at transcript resolution
Authors: Yu Shizhou , Wan Jufen , Xu Tenghang , Zhang Jie , Cao Linggai , Liu Jie , Liu Hongfeng , Ren Xueliang , Yang Zhixiao
Published: February 2025

Alternative splicing (AS) expands the transcriptome diversity by selectively splicing exons and introns from pre-mRNAs to generate different protein isoforms. This mechanism is widespread in eukaryotes and plays a crucial role in development, environmental adaptation, and stress resistance. In this study, we collected 599 tobacco RNA-seq datasets from 35 projects. 207,689 transcripts were identified in this study, of which 35,519 were annotated in the reference genome, while 172,170 transcripts were newly annotated. Additionally, tissue-specific analysis revealed 4,585 transcripts that were uniquely expressed in different tissues, highlighting the complexity and specialization of tobacco gene expression. The analysis of AS events (ASEs) across different tissues showed significant variability in the expression levels of ASE-derived transcripts, with some of these transcripts being associated with stress resistance, such as the geranyl diphosphate synthase (GGPPS). Moreover, we identified 21,763 splicing quantitative trait locus (sQTLs), which were enriched in genes involved in biological processes such as histone acetylation. Furthermore, sQTLs involved genes related to plant hormone signal transduction, terpenoid backbone biosynthesis, and other resistance pathways. These findings not only reveal the diversity of gene expression in tobacco but also provide new insights and strategies for improving tobacco quality and resistance.
Deep learning and hyperspectral features for seedling stage identification of barnyard grass in paddy field
Authors: Tan Siqiao , Xie Qiang , Zhu Wenshuai , Deng Yangjun , Zhu Lei , Yu Xiaoqiao , Yuan Zheming , Chen Yuan
Published: February 2025

Barnyard grass, a pernicious weed thriving in rice fields, poses a significant challenge to agricultural productivity. Detection of barnyard grass before the four-leaf stage is critical for effective control measures. However, due to their striking visual similarity, separating them from rice seedlings at early growth stages is daunting using traditional visible light imaging models. To explore the feasibility of hyperspectral identification of barnyard grass and rice in the seedling stage, we have pioneered the DeepBGS hyperspectral feature parsing framework. This approach harnesses the power of deep convolutional networks to automate the extraction of pertinent information. Initially, a sliding window-based technique is employed to transform the one-dimensional spectral band sequence into a more interpretable two-dimensional matrix. Subsequently, a deep convolutional feature extraction module, ensembled with a bilayer LSTM module, is deployed to capture both global and local correlations inherent within hyperspectral bands. The efficacy of DeepBGS was underscored by its unparalleled performance in discriminating barnyard grass from rice during the critical 2-3 leaf stage, achieving a 98.18% accuracy rate. Notably, this surpasses the capabilities of other models that rely on amalgamations of machine learning algorithms and feature dimensionality reduction methods. By seamlessly integrating deep convolutional networks, DeepBGS independently extracts salient features, indicating that hyperspectral imaging technology can be used to effectively identify barnyard grass in the early stages, and pave the way for the development of advanced early detection systems.
Roles of core nosZ denitrifiers in enhancing denitrification activity under long-term rice straw retention
Authors: Zhang Shijie , Hou Mengyao , Li Bing , Guan Panfeng , Chi Qing , Sun Hao , Xu Hangbo , Cui Dongjie , Zhu Yupan
Published: February 2025

The denitrification process is known to contribute to soil nitrogen (N) loss, which is strongly affected by fertilization strategies; however, the effects of distinct straw retention modes on soil denitrification activity have rarely been discriminated and the underlying mechanisms remain unclear. This study coupled field and incubation experiments to explore the characteristics of soil denitrification activity, soil and standing water physicochemical properties, and the abundance, community diversity, and co-occurrence network of nosZ denitrifiers, based on a paddy field implementing 10-year straw retention under a rice–wheat rotation system. Four straw retention treatments with equivalent chemical fertilizers were applied, namely no straw (NS), wheat straw only (WS), rice straw only (RS), and wheat and rice straw (WRS). Results indicated a significant increase (by 41.93–45.80% when compared to that with NS) in the soil denitrification activity with RS and WRS. Correspondingly, treatments with rice straw retention resulted in the development of a similar community composition (P < 0.05), structure (P = 0.001), and more positively interconnected network, as well as similar specific keystone taxa of nosZ denitrifiers, relative to those in non-rice straw mode. Under long-term rice straw retention conditions, the core nosZ-denitrifying phylogroups shifted (r = 0.83, P < 0.001), with the recruitment of keystone taxa from the phyla Bacteroidetes and Euryarchaeota playing a key role in enhancing denitrification activity and stimulating N loss. Accordingly, in a rice–wheat rotation field, the practice of wheat straw retention in a single season is recommended because it will not markedly sacrifice soil N availability impaired by the denitrification process.
Critical lure source details are “correctly” attributed to both directly related and mediated lists
Authors: Tringali Alexa E. , Huff Mark J.
Published: February 2025

Studying lists of associatively related words often produces false recognition of non-studied critical lures (CL). This false memory illusion can be found both when word lists are directly related to a CL as in the DRM paradigm (e.g., water, bridge, run, for the CL river), and when words are indirectly related to CLs via non-presented mediators (e.g., faucet[water], London[bridge], jog[run], for the CL river). Mediated false memory is strong evidence for activation-monitoring processes over gist extraction as mediated lists lack a consistent gist theme. In the present study, we evaluated whether context details (font color) of studied lists are attributed to CLs when they are falsely recognized. Participants studied directly related and mediated word lists presented in one of two font colors, followed by a source test which required specification of the font color for recognized test items. When CLs were falsely recognized, participants were able to correctly identify the font color of the CL’s origin list for both list types at a higher rate than incorrect identification. Because mediated false recognition reflects implicit activation, this pattern indicates activation processes may include both semantic and perceptual source details.
Network relationship between cognitive function and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults: an observational study from Beijing
Authors: Ye Yitian , Zhang Yichun , Ren Jiaju , Zhu Yanbo
Published: February 2025

Objective

This observational study aims to comprehensively explore the network relationship and mechanism of action between cognitive function and quality of life among community-dwelling older adults aged 60 and above in Beijing.

Methods

The research encompassed a cohort of 323 older adults individuals residing in the community in Beijing. Data were collected from January to July 2024 using convenience sampling. Cognitive function was evaluated using the Chinese adaptation of the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), while quality of life was assessed through the Medical Outcomes Study 36-Item Short-Form Health Survey version 2 (SF-36v2). Cognitive assessment involved seven dimensions, namely visuospatial/executive function, naming, attention, language, abstraction, delayed recall, and orientation. Concurrently, quality of life was assessed across eight dimensions: physical functioning, role physical, bodily pain, general health, vitality, social functioning, role emotional, and mental health. Network analysis graphs were developed to investigate the interrelationships among variables, identify central nodes, and evaluate stability.

Results

In the network, the dimensions of social functioning, role-physical, physical functioning, general health, vitality, orientation, and language showed high centrality strength. The dimensions of physical functioning, role-physical, language, and orientation exhibited strong closeness and betweenness. There were strong associations between role-physical and social functioning, physical functioning and role-physical, and vitality and mental health. The centrality stability coefficients for strength, closeness, and betweenness were 0.672, 0.672, and 0.285, respectively.

Conclusion

The network structure was stable, indicating that dimensions such as social functioning, role-physical, and physical functioning play pivotal roles influencing cognitive function in community-dwelling older adults. Orientation and language were the most representative dimensions of cognitive function and may serve as important targets for interventions aimed at improving cognitive function and subsequently enhancing QoL. These findings provide practical guidance for community health interventions. Future research should explore causal relationships and develop scalable strategies to support aging populations.
Effectiveness of innovative circular technologies for sustainable rural freshwater supply in Tanzania
Authors: Awinia Christopher S.
Published: February 2025

The present study was conducted in two villages situated in the Ruvu–Wami River Basin upstream catchment area in the Kilosa district. The area was experiencing multiple competing water-use activities exacerbated by climate-change-induced human activities and livestock in-migration. Due to the pressure imposed on hydrological resources, new waterpoints were installed while defective ones were not being repaired. The study was guided by two objectives: (a) to investigate the extent to which new innovative circular technologies improved the overall financial sustainability of freshwater schemes and (b) to determine the extent to which financial sustainability contributed to the technical sustainability and overall sustainability of the rural freshwater supply. This study used Lockwood, Bakalian, and Wakeman’s eight dimensions of sustainability as a conceptual framework to investigate the extent to which innovative circular technologies increased the financial, technical, and overall sustainability of rural freshwater schemes. Data were collected from 131 households through a quantitative semi-structured survey; these data were complemented by qualitative data involving 116 focus group discussions. One key finding is that the innovative circular technologies demonstrated a capability to increase the financial sustainability of water schemes. However, deficiencies in technical sustainability affected this potential, leading to high dissatisfaction and low expectations among water users. This resulted in various failures, which affected the overall sustainability of the innovative circular technologies, showing the close interrelationship between social acceptance and technological and financial sustainability. Six important recommendations have been made, specifically concerning the importance of financial and technical capacity, community ownership, social acceptance, community participation, change management, and procurement standards, which affect the quality of the physical water infrastructure network.
Assessment of groundwater intrinsic vulnerability using GIS-based DRASTIC method in district Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Muneer Muhammad , Khan Mumtaz Ali , Shinwari Fayaz Ullah , Ahmed Ijaz , Siyar Syed Mamoon , Alshehri Fahad , Shahab Muhammad
Published: February 2025

The Study area lies in the southern Kohat deformed fold and thrust belt. This part of the Kohat plateau, borders the southern extension of the Himalayan deformation, with the Salt range to the south most. The research is based on DRASTIC model. Anthropogenic activities have the potential to pollute groundwater. An essential component of managing groundwater is vulnerability mapping. This study used the DRASTIC model to analyze aquifer vulnerability and identify the hydrogeological condition in the southern portion of the Karak, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. For the models, the information layers were provided via geographic information systems (GIS). The DRASTIC model uses seven environmental parameters. Vulnerability index concentrations were found to be 0.78% for Very Low vulnerability, 9.57% for Low vulnerability, 24.96% for Moderate vulnerability, 54.01% for High vulnerability, and 10.68% for Very High vulnerability, according to the results. A total 164.446 km2 of the total 1,540 km2 area is covered by the Very High vulnerable zone. The highest Nitrate concentration recorded in the area is 11 ppm and lowest is 4.4 ppm. Around 45% of the samples surpassed the approved limit of PSQWA (Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority) and NSQWQ (National Standards for Quality of Water) standard. The concentration of Nitrate >10 ppm represent that some human action has contributed toward the highest concentration.
Analysis of the influence factors of cultivated land transfer in Guangdong coastal important agricultural areas based on geodetectors
Authors: Fu Zhaogang , Xue Qingyi
Published: February 2025

Introductions

As a key link in the development of modern agriculture, the transfer of arable land is regarded as a strategic measure to improve agricultural production efficiency and ensure national food security. Although the transfer of arable land has been widely implemented nationwide, its specific impact on agricultural production and farmers’ income varies in different regions. The analysis of regional differences in agricultural land transfer in existing literature is still insufficient.

Methods

This study is based on data from important agricultural areas along the coast of Guangdong Province in 2013, 2018, and 2023, and uses stepwise regression models and geodetectors to analyze the factors affecting spatial differentiation of agricultural land transfer.

Result

Cultivated land transfer in Zhanjiang, Maoming, and Yangjiang cities exhibits distinct spatial distribution characteristics, forming a gradient pattern that increases from east to west. In single-factor analysis, factors such as irrigation conditions, agricultural output value, urbanization level, electricity supply, and centralized water supply projects have a particularly prominent impact on farmland transfer. Multi-factor interaction analysis reveals that centralized water supply projects, agricultural film usage, urbanization rate, agricultural GDP, and irrigation area have a significant impact on farmland transfer.

Discussion

This study suggests that the spatial differentiation of agricultural land transfer is the result of the interaction between production characteristics, economic characteristics, population characteristics, and input characteristics. Next, it is necessary to further improve data collection, optimize research methods, and comprehensively consider more factors that may affect cultivated land transfer.
Designing a Composite Hydraulic Cylinder Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Stosiak Michał , Lubecki Marek , Karpenko Mykola
Published: February 2025

The paper points out the growing interest in the use of composite materials for load-bearing parts, including hydraulic components. The non-negligible benefits of using composite materials in mechanical engineering are pointed out. However, applications of new materials sometimes give rise to new challenges. The strength parameters of a new structure, such as a composite cylinder for a hydraulic actuator, depend on its structure, including the number of layers and the fibre angle. This paper presents the application of a genetic algorithm to optimise the process of selecting the structure of a composite cylinder for a hydraulic actuator. The operation of the algorithm and the process of selecting global parameters (hyperparameters) are described. A block diagram of the algorithm for optimising the structure selection process is presented, and the designed structure is verified.
Passive Frequency Tuning of Kinetic Energy Harvesters Using Distributed Liquid-Filled Mass
Authors: Adhikari Rahul , Jackson Nathan
Published: February 2025

Micro-scale kinetic energy harvesters are in large demand to function as sustainable power sources for wireless sensor networks and the Internet of Things. However, one of the challenges associated with them is their inability to easily tune the frequency during the manufacturing process, requiring devices to be custom-made for each application. Previous attempts have either used active tuning, which consumes power, or passive devices that increase their energy footprint, thus decreasing power density. This study involved developing a novel passive method that does not alter the device footprint or power density. It involved creating a proof mass with an array of chambers or cavities that can be individually filled with liquid to alter the overall proof mass as well as center of gravity. The resonant frequency of a rectangular cantilever can then be altered by changing the location, density, and volume of the liquid-filled mass. The resolution can be enhanced by increasing the number of chambers, whereas the frequency tuning range can be increased by increasing the amount of liquid or density of the liquids used to fill the cavities. A piezoelectric cantilever with a 340 Hz initial resonant frequency was used as the testing device. Liquids with varying density (silicone oil, liquid sodium polytungstate, and Galinstan) were investigated. The resonant frequencies were measured experimentally by filling various cavities with these liquids to determine the tuning frequency range and resolution. The tuning ranges of the first resonant frequency mode for the device were 142–217 Hz, 108–217 Hz, and 78.4–217 Hz for silicone oil, liquid sodium polytungstate, and Galinstan, respectively, with a sub Hz resolution.
Promoting Economic Development Through Digitalisation: Impacts on Human Development, Economic Complexity, and Gross National Income
Authors: Xholo Namhla , Ncanywa Thobeka , Garidzirai Rufaro , Asaleye Abiola John
Published: February 2025

The advancement of digital technologies has become a transformative driver of economic development. Digitalisation is central to the global economy, enhances productivity, drives innovation, and promotes inclusive growth. Despite this potential, South Africa faces persistent challenges such as skills shortages, unemployment, poverty, and socioeconomic inequality. This study investigates the role of digitalisation in advancing economic complexity, human capital development, and gross national income in South Africa. A digitalisation index, constructed through Principal Component Analysis, ARDL models, and Granger causality analysis, provides insights into the short- and long-term impacts and causal relationship. The findings reveal that digitalisation and education significantly enhance human capital development in the long run, with digital infrastructure also driving immediate gains. For the gross national income model, digitalisation and education pose short-term pressures due to development expenditures, while institutional quality plays an important role in sustaining income. Economic complexity benefits positively from digitalisation over the long term, though short-term impacts stress the role of governance quality and infrastructure. Causality analysis further shows the interconnectedness of these variables, with digitalisation advancing economic complexity and human capital driving national income, reinforcing digitalisation. The results call for policies that align short-term developmental priorities with long-term sustainability. Investments in digital infrastructure, accessible education, and institutional frameworks are critical for building a skilled labour force while enhancing economic complexity and maintaining financial stability.
Aviation Safety at the Brink: Unveiling the Hidden Dangers of Wind-Shear-Related Aircraft-Missed Approaches
Authors: Khattak Afaq , Zhang Jianping , Chan Pak-Wai , Chen Feng , Almaliki Abdulrazak H.
Published: February 2025

Aircraft-missed approaches pose significant safety challenges, particularly under adverse weather conditions like wind shear. This study examines the critical factors influencing wind-shear-related missed approaches at Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) using Pilot Report (PIREP) data from 2015 to 2023. A Binary Logistic Model (BLM) with L1 (Lasso) and L2 (Ridge) regularization was applied to both balanced and imbalanced datasets, with the balanced dataset created using the Synthetic Minority Oversampling Technique (SMOTE). The performance of the BLM on the balanced data demonstrated a good model fit, with Hosmer–Lemeshow statistics of 5.91 (L1) and 5.90 (L2). The Akaike Information Criterion (AIC) and Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) were slightly lower for L1 regularization, at 1528.77 and 1574.35, respectively, compared to 1528.86 and 1574.66 for L2. Cohen’s Kappa values were 0.266 for L1 and 0.253 for L2, reflecting moderate agreement between observed and predicted outcomes and improved performance compared to the imbalanced data. The analysis identified designated-approach runway, aircraft classification, wind shear source, and vertical proximity of wind shear to runway as the most influential factors. Runways 07R and 07C, gust fronts as wind shear sources, and wind shear occurring within 400 ft of the runway posed the highest risk for missed approaches. Narrow-body aircrafts also demonstrated greater susceptibility to turbulence-induced missed approaches. These findings show the importance of addressing these risk factors and enhancing safety protocols for adverse weather conditions.
Dynamics of Oleo-Pneumatic Landing Gear Systems for Carrier-Based Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Dinc Ali , Yildiz Faruk , Ma Junkun , Pecen Reg , Obeidat Suleiman , Mamedov Ali , Otkur Murat
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis of the dynamics and design of oleo-pneumatic shock absorbers for the landing gear of carrier-based Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). Carrier-based operations impose unique challenges due to high-impact landings, necessitating robust landing gear systems capable of withstanding significant g-forces. The study investigates the performance of landing gears designed for carrier operations under various sink rates, utilizing computer simulations to model the dynamics of both sprung and unsprung masses. The design process for an oleo-pneumatic main landing gear of an 8500 kg UAV includes detailed calculations for stroke, shock absorber strut sizing, spring and damping characteristics, and impact force analysis. The research employs both isothermal and adiabatic models to evaluate the variation in pneumatic pressure and air spring force under static and dynamic loadings, revealing the nonlinear behavior of the shock absorber. The damping characteristics are thoroughly analyzed, demonstrating the superior performance of oleo-pneumatic systems in vibration damping. The simulation results confirm that the current design effectively mitigates impact forces, maintaining vertical accelerations within the design constraints and ensuring structural integrity during landing maneuvers. Key findings include the ability of the shock absorber to handle high sink rates typical of carrier-based operations, with calculated vertical accelerations and force values indicating robust performance. The study identifies areas for future research, such as the development of automated loads and stress analysis tools for rapid weight quantification, exploration of active control systems for vibration alleviation, and potential benefits of multi-service applications for landing gear designs. By addressing the challenges of performance and robustness in carrier-based operations, this research advances landing gear technology for UAVs, enhancing their safety and efficiency in various operation environments. The insights gained provide a solid foundation for optimizing landing gear systems, ensuring reliable performance under demanding conditions.
Optimizing Nitrogen for Sustainable Yield and Efficiency: Insights from Shouguang Facility-Grown Tomatoes
Authors: Wang Xueying , Jia Jingchao , Lu Caiyan , Chen Huaihai , Chen Xin , Peng Xiuyuan , Chi Guangyu , Song Qiaobo , Hu Yanyu , Ma Jian
Published: February 2025

Facility-based agriculture has rapidly advanced due to its capacity for high-intensity and year-round crop cultivation. This study evaluated the effects of different nitrogen fertilizer application rates on the growth of greenhouse tomatoes, while utilizing 15N tracing technology to explore nitrogen utilization efficiency during the growth process of facility-grown tomatoes. The results indicate that nitrogen application rates within the range of N60–N80 (93–128 kg N ha−1) can optimally balance yield, nitrogen-use efficiency, and crop growth. Application rates exceeding this range do not enhance yield and lead to reduced nitrogen-use efficiency. Tomato plants exhibited a low N requirement during the seedling stage, relying primarily on native soil N stocks during the flowering stage. Fertilizer-derived N use increased during the fruiting stage. These findings demonstrate that excessive N inputs lead to diminishing returns and potential nutrient imbalances, while fully utilizing soil N stocks during the seedling and flowering stages is essential. This study emphasizes the importance of adjusting nitrogen input according to the developmental stages of the crop to optimize yield and resource utilization.
Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs): Senegalese Residential Exposure and Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Thiam Salimata , Daffe Mouhamadou Lamine , Cazier Fabrice , Ndong Ba Awa , Verdin Anthony , Genevray Paul , Dewaele Dorothée , Courcot Dominique , Fall Mamadou
Published: February 2025

Indoor air pollution constitutes a public health problem due to the long time that individuals spend in enclosed spaces every day. The present study aims to investigate the level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in indoor air in households in Senegal, and to assess health risks related to residents’ exposure. Of the 17 VOCs identified, 16 were detected in Medina accommodations versus 14 in Darou Khoudoss. Toluene levels reached 70.9 μg/m3 in Medina and 18.5 μg/m3 in Darou Khoudoss, which were the highest compared to other compounds. The sum of Benzene, Toluene, Ethylbenzene, o-Xylene, and 1,2,4-trimethylbenzene concentrations were two times higher in Medina (79.57 µg/m3 versus 37.1 µg/m3). Furthermore, VOCs were found at higher levels in living rooms compared to other living spaces. The highest benzene and acetone concentrations were estimated at 13.6 µg/m3 and 8.4 µg/m3, respectively, in households where incense was burnt daily, while the highest formaldehyde levels were observed in households using incense seasonally (6.8 µg/m3). As regards the health risks associated with exposure of residents, the lifetime cancer risks were all above the WHO tolerable limit (10−5–10−6). Exposure to benzene (8.5 µg/m3) associated with a lifetime risk of leukemia (51.3 per million people exposed) was higher in Darou Khoudoss, while the risk of nasopharyngeal cancer (600 per million people exposed) associated with exposure to formaldehyde (4.23 µg/m3) was higher in Medina.
The Trend of Long Pentraxin 3 and Other Inflammatory Serum Markers in the 30 Days After Total Hip Arthroplasty
Authors: Fidanza Andrea , Marinucci Valeria , Vitale Lorenzo , Poppa Giuseppina , Giusti Ilaria , Necozione Stefano , Logroscino Giandomenico
Published: February 2025

One of the most dangerous and difficult side effects to treat after total hip arthroplasty (THA) is periprosthetic or superficial site infection. Blood and synovial fluid biomarkers have recently come into focus in addition to conventional systemic indicators of inflammation in order to assess their potential utility in the diagnosis of infections. Long pentraxin 3 (PTX3) appears to be a sensitive biomarker of acute-phase inflammation. The purpose of this study is to determine plasma PTX3 in patients undergoing THA and compare its trend with other common serum markers, such as CRP, D-dimer, procalcitonin, and ESR up to 30 days post-operatively. Patients with hip arthritis or avascular necrosis of the femoral head were consecutively enrolled in a single-center study. Each patient underwent blood testing for ESR, CRP, procalcitonin, D-dimer, and PTX3 levels before surgery and at 1, 3, 5, 15, and 30 days after THA. PTX3 was measured using the ELISA method. Other markers’ values and trends were compared with PTX3’s. A total of 50 patients met our inclusion criteria. When different trends were evaluated, PTX3 was found to have a trajectory and sensitivity comparable to other inflammatory markers. Notably, PTX3 changed more quickly than the other markers, with a sharp increase immediately post-operatively, followed by normalization at the 5-, 15-, and 30-day follow-ups, corresponding to the resolution of the inflammatory condition. However, 30 days post surgery, no patients exhibited signs or symptoms of early prosthetic infection. PTX3 is confirmed as a reliable and promising serum biomarker for tracking the level of inflammation in patients undergoing total hip replacements. Blood PTX3 values rise even more rapidly than CRP and procalcitonin and then quickly return to normal values when the inflammatory process resolves. One of the primary barriers to PTX3’s inclusion in routine studies on early periprosthetic infections is the waiting period for PTX3 sample analysis.
African Swine Fever Vaccine Candidate ASFV-G-ΔI177L/ΔLVR Protects Against Homologous Virulent Challenge and Exhibits Long-Term Maintenance of Antibodies
Authors: Choi Sun A , Kim Yeonji , Lee Su Jin , Moon Seong Cheol , Ahn Keun Seung , Zheng Xinghua , Kim Do Soon , Lee Se Young , Shin Seung Pyo , Tark Dongseob , Kim Wonjun , Shin Yongwoo , Jheong Weonhwa , Sur Jung Hyang
Published: February 2025

African swine fever virus (ASFV) has substantially spread worldwide, resulting in significant economic losses in the swine industry. Despite extensive research, no ASF vaccine has surpassed the effectiveness of live attenuated vaccines. For instance, the live attenuated vaccine ASFV-G-ΔI177L/ΔLVR has demonstrated good efficacy and safety, along with prolonged persistence of ASF antibodies after vaccination. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate its potential for protection against highly virulent homologous ASF viruses based on changes in the farm environment. To this end, we challenged domestic pigs with a virulent field strain of ASFV following intramuscular immunization with ASFV-G-ΔI177L/ΔLVR. We further assessed its genomic stability and long-term antibody persistence in immunized domestic pigs. All vaccinated pigs exhibited high antibody positivity, with higher levels of antibodies observed at the time of challenge. These high ASF vaccine antibodies were maintained for approximately 2 months after vaccination. In addition, no organ or tissue damage was observed in the vaccinated animals. Our findings demonstrate the applicability of this vaccine candidate in the prevention of ASFV infection in the swine industry.
Distributions of Conception and Parturition in Dogs According to the Lunar Phase
Authors: Fusi Jasmine , Bucci Roberta , Probo Monica , Faustini Massimo , Veronesi Maria Cristina
Published: February 2025

The possible effects of the Moon and its phases on parturition timing have been extensively reported in the literature in both human and animal species, sometimes finding a causal relationship and other times denying any possible influence. However, knowing parturition timing is pivotal to guarantee the best assistance to mothers and newborns, especially in polytocous species like dogs. Seventy-eight matings and related parturitions of three different canine breeds (Dobermann, Golden Retriever, and Samoyed dogs) were analyzed. Both matings and parturitions occurred more frequently in certain lunar phases, with matings mainly occurring during the Waning Moon and parturitions during the New Moon. Moreover, multiparous bitches mated more frequently during the New Moon, while primiparous ones did so during the Waxing Moon. Parturition occurred more frequently during the Waxing Moon in primiparous bitches and during the Waning Moon in multiparous ones. However, multiparous bitches bearing smaller litters experienced longer gestational lengths and more frequent parturitions during the Waxing Moon. Primiparous bitches bearing larger litters showed more frequent parturitions during the Waning Moon, with shorter gestational lengths. The results suggest that, among other factors influencing the timing of delivery, parturition in dogs can occur more frequently in certain lunar phases.
A Comprehensive Antioxidant and Nutritional Profiling of Brassicaceae Microgreens
Authors: Vučetić Anja , Šovljanski Olja , Pezo Lato , Gligorijević Nevenka , Kostić Saša , Vulić Jelena , Čanadanović-Brunet Jasna
Published: February 2025

Microgreens are gaining prominence as nutrient-dense foods with health-promoting activities while aligning with smart agriculture and functional food trends. They are rich in numerous bioactive compounds like phenolics, ascorbic acid, and carotenoids, which act as antioxidants, while also causing multiple other biological activities. Using advanced statistical methods, this study investigated Brassicaceae microgreens, identifying kale and Sango radish as standout varieties. Both contained 16 amino acids, with potassium and calcium as dominant minerals. Sugar and protein contents ranged from 4.29 to 4.66% and 40.27 to 43.90%, respectively. Kale exhibited higher carotenoid levels, particularly lutein (996.36 mg/100 g) and beta-carotene (574.15 mg/100 g). In comparison, Sango radish excelled in glucose metabolism (α-glucosidase inhibition: 58%) and antioxidant activities (DPPH•: 7.92 mmol TE/100 g, ABTS•+: 43.47 mmol TE/100 g). Both showed antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus. Kale demonstrated stronger anti-inflammatory effects, while Sango radish showed antiproliferative potential. These results, supported by PCA and correlation analysis, underscore the dual role of these microgreens as nutritious and therapeutic food additives, addressing oxidative stress, inflammation, and microbial threats.
Integrating Biofeedback in Dynamic Biomechanical Gait Training for Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: Kim Byong Hun , Kang Tae Kyu , Lee Sae Yong
Published: February 2025

Gait analysis was performed in patients with chronic ankle instability (CAI). Despite advancements in rehabilitation techniques, the integration of gait-training strategies with concurrent feedback (visual and auditory) remains underexplored. This study aimed to investigate the dynamic biomechanical characteristics of CAI patients using a gait-training device following a 6-week intervention program. Thirty patients with CAI (Intervention Group; Sex: Male 8, Female 7, Age: 30.6 ± 4.08, Height: 170.49 ± 11.09 cm), (Control Group; Sex: Male 9, Female 6, Age: 30.49 ± 4.39, Height: 171.63 ± 9.90 cm) participated in this single-blind, randomized controlled trial. The intervention group completed six weeks of gait training using novel devices. Following the intervention, dorsiflexion angles increased significantly from 88.66 ± 5.47% to 92.60 ± 4.45% (p = 0.002) for the FAAM-ADL score, while FAAM-Sport scores improved from 80.79 ± 8.20% to 85.67 ± 6.41% (p = 0.000). Increased dorsiflexion and eversion angles were observed during the early to mid-late stance and late swing phases of gait for both walking and running. Joint moments demonstrated significant changes, with dorsiflexion, eversion, and abduction tendencies increasing throughout the gait cycle after the intervention. The newly developed inertial measurement unit (IMU) proved to be a viable gait-training device for CAI, highlighting that concurrent feedback may allow for greater improvements in deficiencies associated with CAI.
Design Approach for Composite Pavement Structure Incorporating Reflective Crack Considerations
Authors: Fang Naren , Wang Xuesen , Chang Huanyu , Yu Kang
Published: February 2025

The current design methods employed for composite pavement structures predominantly rely on cement concrete slabs, which unfortunately lack established design standards and associated control indicators for determining the appropriate thickness of the asphalt layer. Therefore, the emergence of reflective cracks at the bottom of the asphalt layer has become a prevalent issue in composite pavement. This article aims to enhance the existing design methodology for composite pavement structures by proposing the inclusion of “cracking at the bottom of the asphalt layer” as a design indicator. An extensive analysis was conducted to assess the influence of various factors, including the elastic modulus and thickness of the asphalt layer, the elastic modulus, and thicknesses of the cement concrete slab, as well as the dimensions of the cement concrete slab (length and width), foundation reaction modulus, and joint width, on the comprehensive stress at the bottom of the asphalt layer. Additionally, formulas were derived to calculate the temperature warping stress and load stress, and a formula was also provided for determining the equivalent modulus of the structure, taking into account the stress-absorbing layer. Subsequently, the proposed methodology was applied to the Weixu Expressway. The results suggest adopting a surface structure design scheme consisting of a 6 cm asphalt concrete + 2 cm stress absorption layer. This study found that, when the thickness of the stress-absorbing layer is less than 2 cm, the load stress is highly sensitive to changes in the thickness of this layer. Specifically, a 1 cm thick stress-absorbing layer reduces the maximum tensile stress at the bottom of the asphalt layer by approximately 69.7%, decreases the equivalent stress by about 34.1%, and lowers the maximum shear stress by around 30.9%. However, once the thickness exceeds 2 cm, the load stress remains relatively constant. Thus, it was advisable to utilize an optimal stress-absorbing layer thickness of 2 cm.
The Influence and Compensation of Environmental Factors (pH, Temperature, and Conductivity) on the Detection of Chemical Oxygen Demand in Water by UV-Vis Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Jingwei , Ding Yipei , Lu Yijing , Liu Jia , Zhou Chenxuan , Shao Zhiyu
Published: February 2025

In recent years, ultraviolet-visible (UV-Vis) spectroscopy has become one of the important methods used to measure water chemical oxygen demand (COD). However, environmental factors (pH, temperature, conductivity, etc.) can interfere with spectral information, thereby influencing the stability and accuracy of COD detection. The three environmental factors that influence UV-Vis spectroscopy were researched in this study. Considering the complexity of environmental factors, a data fusion method is proposed to compensate for the influence of three environmental factors simultaneously. This data fusion method is based on the weighted superposition of the spectrum and three environmental factors. A COD prediction model was established by fusing spectral feature wavelengths and environmental factors to reduce the influence of environmental factors on COD detection. Through the proposed data fusion method, the accuracy of COD detection based on UV-Vis spectroscopy has been improved. The determination coefficient of prediction (RPred2) reaches 0.9602, and the root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) reaches 3.52.