bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Aggregate Structure and Organic Carbon Mineralization in Forest Soils Along an Elevation Gradient in the Sygera Mountains of the Southeastern Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Guo Hang , He Qiang , Meng Qiang , Min Zhihui , Chen Peng , Li Yawei , Chen Jiarui , Wei Qi , Zhou Zhaoqiang , Xu Junzeng
Published: February 2025

The distribution of the soil aggregate structure and its associated organic carbon along the elevation gradient remains unclear, but it may be crucial for the stabilization of soil carbon pools in mountainous forests. In this study, we first assessed the changes in aggregate-associated organic carbon and the aggregate structure in the 0–20 cm soil layers of an alpine forest in the Sygera Mountains along an elevation gradient (3000–4200 m). We then conducted an incubation experiment to explore the relationship between aggregates and soil organic carbon mineralization, using the Pearson correlation analysis and RDA. The results indicated that macroaggregates and microaggregates were the predominant forms of aggregates in the Sygera Mountains, contributing significantly to organic carbon (33.57% and 38.29%, respectively). As the elevation increased, the stability of aggregates in mid and high elevations (3600–4200 m) was significantly higher than that in low elevations (3000–3300 m). Aggregate stability and macroaggregate-associated organic carbon were positively correlated with the total soil organic carbon, suggesting that organic carbon is essential for promoting soil aggregation in forest soils. With the rising temperatures, the rate of soil mineralization at different elevation sites significantly increased, and the Q10 values were greater at low elevations than at mid and high elevations. This implied that soil carbon pools at low elevations were more sensitive to climate warming. The significant negative correlation between microaggregate-associated organic carbon and soil mineralization suggested that microaggregates contribute to the stabilization of soil carbon pools. Given that the link between aggregates and soil mineralization strengthened with increasing temperatures, the role of aggregates in the stabilization of forest soil carbon pools should be emphasized under a warming trend.
Genome-Wide Identification of the SRS Gene Family in Poplar and Expression Analysis Under Drought Stress and Salt Stress
Authors: Yin Zhihui , Li Haixia , Li Jing , Guo Chengbo , Li Zhenghua , Zhang Haifeng , Wang Hongmei , Siqin Tuya , Sun Peilin , Wang Yanmin , Bai Hui
Published: February 2025

The Short Internodes-Related Sequence (SRS) family is a class of transcription factors unique to plants that are essential for controlling their growth, development, and stress responses. Nevertheless, information regarding the characterization and biological function of poplar SRS family members remains limited. In this study, we identified 10 members of the SRS gene family in the genome of Populus tremula using bioinformatics, distributed on seven chromosomes and named PtSRS01-PtSRS10 based on their locations. Our phylogenetic analysis results indicated that PtSRS genes can be categorized into five subfamilies and that members of each subfamily have similar gene structures and motifs. Collinearity analysis indicated that the expansion of the PtSRS gene family is caused by segmental duplication and is influenced by purifying selection during its evolutionary process. Cis-acting element analysis revealed that PtSRS was enriched in cis-acting elements related to growth and development, light response, hormone induction, and stress response. Quantitative real-time PCR revealed that drought and salt (NaCl) treatments affected the expression of several PtSRS genes, with PtSRS04 and PtSRS05 being the two genes with the most significant expression levels, with PtSRS04 showing a 700-fold increase in relative gene expression level after 8 d of drought stress and the PtSRS05 gene showing a 38-fold increase in gene expression level at 48 h of NaCl stress, suggesting that they could be crucial in salt and drought stress. The results presented herein provide a theoretical basis for subsequent in-depth studies on the involvement of poplar SRS gene family members in drought and salt stress resistance.
forestPSD: An R Package for Analyzing the Forest Population Structure and Numeric Dynamics
Authors: Lei Jiaxing , Chai Zongzheng
Published: February 2025

Forest population structure and dynamics represent core research areas in forest ecology, encompassing multiple components such as quantitative analyses of population changes, age structure, life tables, and species dynamics within specific spatial and temporal contexts. These elements provide crucial insights into tree adaptation mechanisms and inform evidence-based strategies for population conservation and management. However, traditional analyses of forest population structure and dynamics face significant challenges due to the absence of specialized analytical software. This limitation not only increases data processing complexity and workload but also elevates the risk of analytical errors. To address these challenges, we developed forestPSD, a novel R package based on established principles of forest population structure and dynamics analysis. This package provides researchers with an efficient and user-friendly tool for analyzing forest population structures and their temporal changes, thereby facilitating advancement in this field.
Exploring Fractional Damped Burgers’ Equation: A Comparative Analysis of Analytical Methods
Authors: Alshehry Azzh Saad , Shah Rasool
Published: February 2025

This investigation focuses on the study of the fractional damped Burgers’ equation by using the natural residual power series method coupled with the new iteration transform method in the context of the Caputo operator. The equation of Burgers under the damped context is useful when studying one-dimensional nonlinear waves involving damping effect, and is used in fluid dynamics, among other applications. Two new mathematical methods that can be used to obtain an approximate solution to this complex non-linear problem are the natural residual power series method and the new iteration transform method. Therefore, it can be deduced that the Caputo operator aids in modeling of the fractional derivatives, as it provides a better description of the physical realities. Thus, the objective of the present work is to advance the knowledge accumulated on the behavior of solutions to the damped Burgers’ equation, as well as to check the applicability of the proposed approaches to other nonlinear fractional partial differential equations.
Advances in Understanding the Karyotype Evolution of Tetrapulmonata and Two Other Arachnid Taxa, Ricinulei and Solifugae
Authors: Král Jiří , Sember Alexandr , Divišová Klára , Kořínková Tereza , Reyes Lerma Azucena C. , Ávila Herrera Ivalú M. , Forman Martin , Šťáhlavský František , Musilová Jana , Torres Kalme Sabrina , Palacios Vargas José G. , Zrzavá Magda , Vrbová Iva , Moreno-González Jairo A. , Cushing Paula E. , Gromov Alexander V. , Šebestiánová Štěpánka , Šlechtová Vendula Bohlen , Prendini Lorenzo , Bird Tharina L.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Arachnids are a megadiverse arthropod group. The present study investigated the chromosomes of pedipalpid tetrapulmonates (orders Amblypygi, Thelyphonida, Schizomida) and two arachnid orders of uncertain phylogenetic placement, Ricinulei and Solifugae, to reconstruct their karyotype evolution. Except for amblypygids, the cytogenetics of these arachnid orders was almost unknown prior to the present study. Methods: Chromosomes were investigated using methods of standard (Giemsa-stained preparations, banding techniques) and molecular cytogenetics (fluorescence in situ hybridization, comparative genomic hybridization). Results and Conclusions: New data for 38 species, combined with previously published data, suggest that ancestral arachnids possessed low to moderate 2n (22–40), monocentric chromosomes, one nucleolus organizer region (NOR), low levels of heterochromatin and recombinations, and no or homomorphic sex chromosomes. Karyotypes of Pedipalpi and Solifugae diversified via centric fusions, pericentric inversions, and changes in the pattern of NORs and, in solifuges, also through tandem fusions. Some solifuges display an enormous amount of constitutive heterochromatin and high NOR number. It is hypothesized that the common ancestor of amblypygids, thelyphonids, and spiders exhibited a homomorphic XY system, and that telomeric heterochromatin and NORs were involved in the evolution of amblypygid sex chromosomes. The new findings support the Cephalosomata clade (acariforms, palpigrades, and solifuges). Hypotheses concerning the origin of acariform holocentric chromosomes are presented. Unlike current phylogenetic hypotheses, the results suggest a sister relationship between Schizomida and a clade comprising other tetrapulmonates as well as a polyploidization in the common ancestor of the clade comprising Araneae, Amblypygi, and Thelyphonida.
Exercising4Cognition: Can Short Bouts of Aerobic Exercise Improve Cognitive Performance in Healthy Adults for Primary Health Prevention? Previous Findings and Suggestions for the Future
Authors: Herbert Cornelia
Published: February 2025

Background: Regular physical activity (PA) and regular exercise (RE) are essential for an active and healthy lifestyle. Additionally, the short-term effects have been investigated to understand how an acute bout of exercise impacts cognitive processing, an important aspect of mental health and well-being. Previous studies have confirmed positive effects. However, several exercise factors and human factors can influence this relationship. Aim/Methods/Results: This perspective paper has three main objectives: firstly, discussing the exercise and human factors that influence exercise-cognition effects significantly across studies according to previous reviews and meta-analytic studies and how this influence could be explained theoretically; secondly, highlighting important knowledge gaps and research questions for future research; and thirdly, discussing what conclusion can be drawn for cognitive health promotion. A particular focus is given to the effects of acute bouts of aerobic exercise and healthy adults as an important target group for primary health prevention. Conclusions: The summary of previous findings shows that the effects of an acute bout of aerobic exercise on cognitive performance in healthy adults depend on (a) exercise factors such as the duration and intensity of the acute bout of exercise, (b) cognitive factors such as the type of cognitive task and domain of cognitive functions, and (c) individual factors such as the physical activity of the individuals. Still, open questions concern the ideal duration, intensity and timing of the acute bout of exercise. In particular, more research is needed to determine whether and how aerobic exercises of short duration and an intensity above and especially below moderate intensity improve cognitive functions in healthy adults. Methodologically, these factors should be addressed by multimethod designs that consider intra- and interindividual comparisons and different response levels (self-report, behavioral, psychophysiological). In conclusion, answering these questions could pave the way for recommendations on how healthcare professionals should prescribe brief aerobic exercise as a cognitive health booster in healthy young adults. To this end, concepts of extended arousal and neurovisceral integration are useful framework models to include individual factors, like self-regulatory abilities of the individual and how these influence exercise-cognition interactions and exercise motivation during, pre-to-post and across testing sessions.
Adaptation and Psychometric Assessment of the Turkish Version of the Perceived Access to Health Care Questionnaire: Validity and Reliability Analysis
Authors: Yilmaz Salim , Ateş Metin , Abay Perihan
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Access to health services is a fundamental element of social welfare and individual quality of life. This study aimed to fill gaps in the Turkish literature regarding the assessment and perception of access to health services and to introduce a valid and reliable measurement tool for this purpose. Methods: This methodological cross-sectional study was conducted in Istanbul with 639 adults aged 18–65 years. Linguistic and cultural appropriateness were evaluated, and validation was assessed through known group validity using sociodemographic factors. Convergent and divergent validity analyses were performed. Reliability was examined using alpha coefficients and 27% percentile discrimination. A secondary confirmatory factor analysis provided the overall score for the scale. Results: The scale was validated on four factors, and seven items were removed during refinement, resulting in a final twenty-three-item scale. Internal consistency was robust, with alpha coefficients of 0.899 for acceptability and affordability, 0.825 for availability, 0.773 for accommodation, 0.892 for awareness, and 0.943 for overall access. Perceived access to health services was significantly correlated with age, beliefs in easy access to health, and satisfaction with outpatient care. Conclusions: The validated scale provides a reliable tool for measuring perceptions of access to health services, which is essential for shaping health policies and practices. Comprehensive assessments using such tools can help discern nuanced distinctions between perceived and actual access.
Genetic Analysis of the Awn Length Gene in the Rice Chromosome Segment Substitution Line CSSL29
Authors: Wang Zhengjie , Yang Jun , Huang Tao , Chen Zhihao , Nyasulu Mvuyeni , Zhong Qi , He Haohua , Bian Jianmin
Published: February 2025

Awn length is a significant agronomic trait in rice. To analyze the genetic mechanism of awn length in the chromosome segment substitution line 29 (CSSL29) derived from 9311 (recipient) into Nipponbare (NIP, donor), an F2 segregated population was constructed from 9311 (indica) and CSSL29. The population and candidate genes were analyzed using quantitative trait loci sequencing (QTL-seq), yeast two-hybrid assays, and 3 k and 10 k rice population databases. The results indicated that the awn length in the F2 segregating population followed a normal distribution, and the long-awn phenotype in CSSL29 was controlled by multiple genes. Through BSA sequencing data, a major QTL qAWN4 associated with rice awn length was identified on chromosome 4, containing the cloned gene An-2. Further investigation of the CSSL29 long-awn substitution segment revealed the presence of the awn length gene An-1, with both genes exhibiting an additive effect on the regulation of the long-awn phenotype. Yeast two-hybrid experiments confirmed no interaction between An-2 and An-1, suggesting that additive effect awn length regulation is not mediated through simple protein-to-protein binding. Population genetic analysis indicated that the An-2 allele was artificially selected during domestication but did not significantly differ between indica and japonica subspecies. These findings enhance our understanding of the genetic regulation of rice awn length and the domestication of long-awn rice, laying the groundwork for future research in this area.
Anas barbariae 200K Modulates Cell Stiffness and Oxidative Stress in Microglial Cells In Vitro
Authors: Paumier Anne , Verre Justine , Runel Gaël , Chlasta Julien , Tribolo Sandra , Chanut Stéphanie
Published: February 2025

Anas barbariae 200K, a homeopathic medicine, is traditionally used for influenza-like illnesses. We investigated the effects of Anas barbariae 200K on microglial cells, a subpopulation of macrophages specific to the central nervous system often used to study the inflammatory processes and oxidative stress generated during influenza-like episodes. The study demonstrates the effect of Anas barbariae 200K on cell stiffness and the reactive oxygen species production using atomic force microscopy and fluorescence microscopy techniques, respectively. Our results showed that Anas barbariae 200K rapidly increased cell stiffness in resting cells by 41% compared with the vehicle. In inflamed cells, cell stiffness was decreased by 21% when treated with Anas barbariae 200K compared with the vehicle. Finally, Anas barbariae 200K caused a reorganisation of filamentous actin, with marked relocation of actin at the cell extremities. Moreover, Anas barbariae 200K significantly decreased the reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in inflamed microglial cells by 40% (total intracellular ROS) and by 67% (mitochondrial ROS) compared with the vehicle. These results strongly suggest an effect of Anas barbariae 200K at a cellular level on cell stiffness and actin cytoskeleton. This sheds light on the biological mechanism of action of this homeopathic preparation.
Integrative Multi-Omics Approaches for Identifying and Characterizing Biological Elements in Crop Traits: Current Progress and Future Prospects
Authors: Fan Bing-Liang , Chen Lin-Hua , Chen Ling-Ling , Guo Hao
Published: February 2025

The advancement of multi-omics tools has revolutionized the study of complex biological systems, providing comprehensive insights into the molecular mechanisms underlying critical traits across various organisms. By integrating data from genomics, transcriptomics, metabolomics, and other omics platforms, researchers can systematically identify and characterize biological elements that contribute to phenotypic traits. This review delves into recent progress in applying multi-omics approaches to elucidate the genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic networks associated with key traits in plants. We emphasize the potential of these integrative strategies to enhance crop improvement, optimize agricultural practices, and promote sustainable environmental management. Furthermore, we explore future prospects in the field, underscoring the importance of cutting-edge technological advancements and the need for interdisciplinary collaboration to address ongoing challenges. By bridging various omics platforms, this review aims to provide a holistic framework for advancing research in plant biology and agriculture.
Dynamic Identification of Bridges Using Multiple Synchronized Cameras and Computer Vision
Authors: Panigati Tommaso , Abbozzo Alessia , Pace Maria Antonietta , Temur Eray , Cigan Filip , Kromanis Rolands
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the application of computer vision techniques in Structural Health Monitoring (SHM). The advantages of multiple synchronized camera setups in capturing and analyzing the dynamic behavior of bridges are researched. The proposed methodology encompasses approach, setup, and data analysis techniques, with the final scope of extracting modal parameters from videos of a vibrating bridge. An operational pedestrian footbridge forced by human-induced vibrations serves as a case study. The findings demonstrate that computer vision techniques employing a multiple synchronized camera approach offer a precise, cost-effective, efficient, and safe alternative to conventional SHM approaches for the dynamic identification of bridges.
Formulation of Entomopathogenic Nematodes for Above-Ground Use Against Tomato Leaf Miner, Phthorimaea absoluta
Authors: Waweru Bancy W. , Kajuga Joelle N. , Hategekimana Athanase , Ndereyimana Assinapol , Kankundiye Lydie , Umulisa Christine , Nyombayire Alphonse , Mutumwinka Marie , Ishimwe Primitive M. , Bazagwira Didace , Mukundiyabo Grace C. , Bigirimana Vincent de Paul , Yan Xun , Kiss Jozsef , Toepfer Stefan
Published: February 2025

The tomato leaf miner Phthorimaea (syn. Tuta) absoluta Meyrick (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) is invasive in many agricultural regions. Its larvae feed inside leaf mines or tomato fruits and are difficult to reach with plant protection products. In contrast, entomopathogenic nematodes (EPNs) are highly virulent and can search for larvae. The challenge is to formulate EPNs to remain protected on a sprayed leaf surface until they enter the mines. We tested 11 formulations, including 2 oils, 4 gels or thickeners, 2 surfactants, 2 UV protectants, water, and combinations with and without the EPN Steinernema carpocapsae (Weiser) RW14-G-R3a-2 (Rhabditida: Steinernematidae), under non-closed low-humidity conditions. Six tomato leaf experiments with 1000 EPNs sprayed per leaf showed that EPNs in 0.25 to 0.5% canola oil or in 5% alkyl polyglycoside surfactant were the most effective (26 to 37%). Other formulations and an insecticide had less or no effect. Seven other bioassays showed that most formulations did not adversely affect EPN survival or pathogenicity. We assume that formulations of EPNs can be further improved, such as with other flowable gels or combinations, and encourage investment in the development of practical and economic protective sprayable formulations of EPNs against leaf miners to reduce reliance on chemical insecticides.
Advances in Biologic Therapies for Allergic Diseases: Current Trends, Emerging Agents, and Future Perspectives
Authors: Alska Ewa , Łaszczych Dariusz , Napiórkowska-Baran Katarzyna , Szymczak Bartłomiej , Rajewska Alicja , Rubisz Aleksandra Ewa , Romaniuk Paulina , Wrzesień Katarzyna , Mućka Natalia , Bartuzi Zbigniew
Published: February 2025

Biologic therapies have revolutionized the treatment of severe allergic diseases, including asthma, atopic dermatitis (AD), chronic spontaneous urticaria (CSU), chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP), eosinophilic gastrointestinal diseases (EGIDs), and allergic rhinitis (AR). These molecularly targeted agents provide significant benefits for patients unresponsive to conventional treatments by addressing underlying immune mechanisms, particularly type 2 inflammation driven by cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13. Recent advancements include biologics targeting alarmins like thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) and IL-33, which may address both type 2 and non-type 2 inflammation, broadening their therapeutic scope. Despite their effectiveness, biologics remain expensive, posing socioeconomic challenges, and there are concerns regarding long-term safety and inter-individual variability in responses. Promising innovations such as bispecific antibodies and ultra-long-acting agents are under investigation, alongside digital health tools like remote biomarker monitoring and AI-driven decision support systems, which aim to enhance personalized care. However, disparities in access, particularly for underserved populations, underscore the need for policy reforms and affordable biosimilars. This review synthesizes recent findings and emerging trends, highlighting the evolving role of biologics in transforming allergic disease management and offering insights into future research directions.
Part 1—Cardiac Rehabilitation After an Acute Myocardial Infarction: Four Phases of the Programme—Where Do We Stand?
Authors: Aleksova Aneta , Fluca Alessandra Lucia , Beltrami Antonio Paolo , Dozio Elena , Sinagra Gianfranco , Marketou Maria , Janjusevic Milijana
Published: February 2025

Cardiac rehabilitation is a well-established multidisciplinary interventional protocol that plays a pivotal role in the management and prevention of future cardiovascular events in patients with cardiovascular diseases. This patient-tailored approach includes educating patients about their cardiovascular condition and how to control the associated risk factors, an expert-designed lifestyle modification plan that may include exercise, proper nutrition, pharmacological treatment, and psychological support at each step. Exercise training represents a fundamental component of cardiac rehabilitation. It facilitates an enhancement of cardiovascular fitness, a reduction in heart rate, blood pressure and cardiac remodeling, an increase in the left ventricular ejection fraction, the optimization of endothelial function, and a reduction in inflammation and oxidative stress. Moreover, the beneficial physiological changes resulting from cardiac rehabilitation contribute to a reduction in morbidity and mortality in survivors of myocardial infarction (MI). Furthermore, the European Society of Cardiology Guidelines advocate for the initiation of cardiac rehabilitation as early as possible, while the patient who survived MI is still in hospital. This two-part comprehensive review commences with a historical overview of cardiac rehabilitation, followed by a detailed exploration of the four phases of the cardiac rehabilitation programme and its impact on cardiovascular health. In Part 2, the study aims to provide a detailed account of the optimal timing for starting cardiac rehabilitation programs and to examine the factors affecting low engagement in such programs, as well as gender-based differences in adherence.
Language Artificial Intelligence Models as Pioneers in Diagnostic Medicine? A Retrospective Analysis on Real-Time Patients
Authors: Naeem Azka , Khan Omair , Baqir Syed Mujtaba , Jana Kundan , Shankar Prem , Kaur Avleen , Zaaya Morad , Sajid Fatima , Mohsin Fizza , Boadla Marlon Rivera , Oo Aung , Wong Victor , Noor Momna , Sandhu Samar Pal Singh , Slobodyanuk Kseniya , Shetty Vijay , Tokayer Aaron Z.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 has shown promise in assisting healthcare professionals with clinical questions. However, their performance in real-time clinical scenarios remains underexplored. This study aims to evaluate their precision and reliability compared to board-certified emergency department attendings, highlighting their potential in improving patient care. We hypothesized that board-certified emergency department attendings at Maimonides Medical Center exhibit higher accuracy and reliability than GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 in generating differentials based on history and physical examination for patients presenting to the emergency department. Methods: Real-time patient data from Maimonides Medical Center’s emergency department, collected from 1 January 2023 to 1 March 2023 were analyzed. Demographic details, symptoms, medical history, and discharge diagnoses recorded by emergency room attendings were examined. AI algorithms (ChatGPT-3.5 and GPT-4) generated differential diagnoses, which were compared with those by attending physicians. Accuracy was determined by comparing each rater’s diagnoses with the gold standard discharge diagnosis, calculating the proportion of correctly identified cases. Precision was assessed using Cohen’s kappa coefficient and Intraclass Correlation Coefficient to measure agreement between raters. Results: Mean age of patients was 49.12 years, with 57.3% males and 42.7% females. Chief complaints included fever/sepsis (24.7%), gastrointestinal issues (17.7%), and cardiovascular problems (16.4%). Diagnostic accuracy against discharge diagnoses was highest for ChatGPT-4 (85.5%), followed by ChatGPT-3.5 (84.6%) and ED attendings (83%). Cohen’s kappa demonstrated moderate agreement (0.7) between AI models, with lower agreement observed for ED attendings. Stratified analysis revealed higher accuracy for gastrointestinal complaints with Chat GPT-4 (87.5%) and cardiovascular complaints with Chat GPT-3.5 (81.34%). Conclusions: Our study demonstrates that Chat GPT-4 and GPT-3.5 exhibit comparable diagnostic accuracy to board-certified emergency department attendings, highlighting their potential to aid decision-making in dynamic clinical settings. The stratified analysis revealed comparable reliability and precision of the AI chat bots for cardiovascular complaints which represents a significant proportion of the high-risk patients presenting to the emergency department and provided targeted insights into rater performance within specific medical domains. This study contributes to integrating AI models into medical practice, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness in clinical decision-making. Further research is warranted to explore broader applications of AI in healthcare.
Optimizing Stem Length in Conversion Total Hip Arthroplasty: An Expanded Finite Element Analysis
Authors: Shimasaki Koshiro , Nishino Tomofumi , Yoshizawa Tomohiro , Watanabe Ryunosuke , Hirose Fumi , Yasunaga Shota , Mishima Hajime
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Stress concentration around distal screw-removal holes confers a major risk for periprosthetic fractures following conversion total hip arthroplasty (cTHA) for intertrochanteric femoral fractures. Optimal stem-selection criteria and guidelines for cTHA can improve clinical outcomes. We determined the influence of the cementless stem length on the stress distribution around distal screw-removal holes. Methods: For the finite element analysis, institutional data from preoperative CT scans of contralateral femurs of patients who underwent THA were used. To replicate the post-nail-removal state, we used 3D registration of standard triangulated language data of the intramedullary nail as an unused material to simulate distal screw-removal holes, located 135 mm from the proximal end of the intramedullary nail. Cementless stems of 130, 140, 150, and 160 mm were individually registered using STL data, and cTHA models were constructed accordingly. Using simulations under load conditions representing normal walking and stair climbing, the mean and maximum equivalent stress values around the distal screw-removal holes were calculated. For multiple comparisons, repeated-measures ANOVA with Bonferroni correction was employed. Results: Compared to the 130 mm stem, the 150 mm and 160 mm stems similarly reduced the maximum equivalent stress around the distal screw-removal holes, although the 140 mm stem showed no significant difference with other stems. Conclusions: A ≥150 mm stem length reliably mitigated stress concentration around distal screw-removal holes post-cTHA; it is the optimal choice for balancing effectiveness and risk of complications and may contribute to improved long-term clinical outcomes. This study provides practical evidence for stem selection in cTHA and offers valuable insights for future treatment guidelines.
Enhanced Minimum Spanning Tree Optimization for Air-Lifted Artificial Upwelling Pipeline Network
Authors: Zhang Junjie , Fan Wei , Zhao Yonggang , Zou Zhiyu , Qu Mengjie , Chen Ying
Published: February 2025

Artificial upwelling (AU), a geoengineering technique aimed at transporting nutrient-enriched deep-sea water to the sunlit surface layers through artificial systems, is increasingly recognized as a promising approach to enhance oceanic fertility and stimulate primary marine productivity, thereby bolstering the ocean capacity for carbon sequestration. Several air-lifted AU systems have been implemented in countries such as Norway and China. However, research on the optimization of the air injection pipeline network (AIPN)—a critical component of the air-lifted AU system—remains limited. This paper introduces a refined minimum spanning tree algorithm to propose a novel approach for optimizing the AIPN. Furthermore, the bubble-entrained plume loss rate (NBEP) is developed as a model to assess the efficiency of air-lifted AU systems, which is applied to three case studies involving air-lifted AU systems of varying scales. The findings indicate that the enhanced minimum spanning tree algorithm outperforms the conventional Prim’s algorithm, leading to an average 87% reduction in NBEP of the optimized AIPN, compared to the AIPN of previous air-lifted AU systems while improving system stability. Consequently, the proposed optimization method for AIPN offers valuable scientific and practical insights for the engineering design of the air-lifted AU systems across diverse scales, offering transformative potential for large-scale carbon sequestration and marine productivity enhancement.
Preliminary Biological Assessments of Some Algae Basis Biomaterials
Authors: Marian Toader , Radu Nicoleta , Voicescu Mariana , Nistor Cristina Lavinia , Pirvu Lucia Camelia , Mihaila Mirela , Bostan Marinela
Published: February 2025

Four types of algae—Porphyra umbilicalis, Undaria pinnatifida, Cystoseira barbata, and Chlorella sp.—were used to obtain crude bioproducts enriched in polysaccharides (four bioproducts) and to create formulations enriched with gold cations (four bioproducts). The bioproducts obtained through aqueous extraction from Cystoseira barbata exhibited significant antioxidant activities and a total polyphenol content of (714.17 ± 1.26) mg GAE/L. In the bioproducts derived from the aqueous extract of Porphyra umbilicalis and Undaria pinnatifida, combined with gold ions, gold nanoparticles with sizes of less than 34 nm were formed. In vitro tests performed on the Caco-2 tumour cell line with each of the eight bioproducts, after 24 h of exposure, showed that the crude bioproducts containing polysaccharides derived from Porphyra umbilicalis, Undaria pinnatifida, and Chlorella sp. exhibited cytotoxicity against the Caco-2 cell line. In the case of the HepG2 cell line, after 24 h of exposure, the tests indicated that only the crude polysaccharides derived from Cystoseira barbata exhibited cytotoxic effects. These results indicate the protective effect of the algal polysaccharides against the tumourigenesis processes that may occur in the human digestive system. Regarding the bioproducts containing gold, no cytotoxic effect was observed. However, in the case of the two algal bioproducts containing gold nanoparticles with a size of less than 34 nm, they may represent potential raw materials for electrochemical sensors.
Contemporary Issues and Advancements in Coastal Eolianite Research
Authors: Backus David H.
Published: February 2025

This review of eolianite research—following a comprehensive overview earlier this century—looks at several areas of overlapping research in coastal eolianite deposition, including the following: tectonic setting; carbonate–sediment type and source areas (carbonate factories); the relationship between relative sea-level change and eolianite deposition; and the evolution of depositional models. Several locations are highlighted in order to emphasize the variety in the eolianite depositional record based on more recent research. In particular, a historical review of eolianite depositional models developed over the last 100-plus years indicates that purely high-stand models of the last century—developed on steep-sided carbonate platforms—do not adequately reflect the complex depositional histories found on other coastal shelves. More recent depositional models emphasize high-stand carbonate production followed by the mobilization of shelf sediments during subsequent relative drops in sea level.
Reconstruction of the Cenozoic Deformation of the Yinggehai Basin and Beibu Gulf Basin, South China Sea
Authors: Zhao Jiaxiao , Liu Chenghao , Zhao Jingjin , Xu Qingjun
Published: February 2025

This study employs structural information and stratigraphic lithology as constraints to conduct balanced restoration on seismic profiles from the Yinggehai Basin (YGB) and the Beibu Gulf Basin (BGB). The reconstruction indicates that the evolutionary periods of the YGB can be classified into five distinct stages: rift stage (56–36 Ma), fault depression stage (36–23 Ma), depression stage (23–15.5 Ma), inversion stage (15.5–5.3 Ma), and depression stage (5.3–0 Ma). In contrast, the evolutionary stages of the BGB are categorized into four stages: rift stage (66–56 Ma), fault depression stage (40–32 Ma), fault-depression transition stage (32–23 Ma), and depression stage (23–0 Ma). The BGB did not experience a tectonic inversion phase similar to that of the YGB, but both have undergone a fault depression stage under the same tectonic background. The rotational extrusion of the Indochina block has accelerated the opening of the rift basins along the northern and western margins of the South China Sea (SCS). The dual subduction processes of the Proto-SCS has led to the opening of the SCS Basin. Within the BGB, a significant increase in the dilatation strain rate (DSR) can be observed over a large area. The transition in the strike-slip nature of the Red River Fault Zone is evidenced by tectonic inversion in the stratigraphy. The tectonic mechanism of the YGB is primarily controlled by the convergence of the India-Eurasia plate, while the evolution of the BGB is governed by the subduction of the Pacific plate, the convergence of the India-Eurasia plate, and the dual subduction of the Proto-SCS.
Realist and Constructivist Interpretations and Representations of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War: As an Event and as a Process
Authors: Simons Greg , Chifu Iulian
Published: February 2025

The aim of this article is to analyze communications from the presidential and security council websites on the interpretations and representations of the Second Nagorno-Karabakh War to understand how people, places, and events were interpreted and represented in terms of realism and constructivism in the geopolitics of the conflict to global audiences. Critical discourse analysis is used as a methodology for highlighting and making sense of texts in terms of the intangible elements of power relations, reputation and brand of the actors, relative balance of ethics and morality of the belligerents, value judgements, and predictions of the war’s outcome. There is a clear tendency to engage in what Sun Tsu and von Clausewitz characterize as the politics of war using brand and reputation management to global audiences of a good and virtuous self-image versus a projected ruthless opponent lacking virtue. This is an exploratory paper with an indicative result, and several apparent trends emerge. One observation suggests that the actor that is militarily weaker tends to communicate more often to shape the political variables that influence the conduct of war. The role of constructivist rhetoric is being used to justify and legitimize realist-oriented policy and practice in war.
The Politics of Ethics: Can Honesty Cross Over Political Polarization?
Authors: Lee Sang , Romdhane Samar Ben
Published: February 2025

This research demonstrates how confirmation and disconfirmation biases manifest based on individuals’ political affiliations when processing a self-disclosure message in the context of a political crisis. An experiment presented a crisis message in which a politician voluntarily revealed his campaign finance violations. The results revealed that confirmation bias and disconfirmation bias significantly influenced the information processing of participants based on their political affiliations. Democrat participants were significantly more open to and forgiving of the crisis message when it featured a Democrat politician. In contrast, Republican participants showed a strong tendency to be more critical and less forgiving under the same conditions. However, this pattern reversed when a Republican politician was shown in the crisis message. The research also tested moderated mediation hypotheses: the interaction effects between study participants’ political affiliations and politicians’ parties were mediated by perceived attitude toward the politician and crisis responsibility, leading to ethical perceptions about the politician. The study contributes to our understanding of the mechanisms underlying political polarization and the ways in which the biases of confirmation and disconfirmation influence individuals’ processing of political messages.
Anaerobic Digestion of Cattle Manure Contaminated with an Antibiotic Mixture: A Nature-Based Solution for Environmental Management
Authors: Massini Giulia , Barra Caracciolo Anna , Rauseo Jasmin , Spataro Francesca , Scordo Giulia , Patrolecco Luisa , Garbini Gian Luigi , Visca Andrea , Grenni Paola , Rolando Ludovica , Mazzurco Miritana Valentina
Published: February 2025

Anaerobic digestion (AD) is a waste-to-energy strategy that leverages natural microbiological processes. It is increasingly used in farms to treat manure, resulting in biogas for energy production and digestate as fertiliser. However, animal manure often contains antibiotic (AB) residues, raising concerns about their impact on AD efficiency and their potential spread through digestate use. This multidisciplinary study evaluated the effects of an AB mixture (enrofloxacin, ciprofloxacin and sulfamethoxazole) on CH4 production, microbial community (Fungi, Bacteria and Archaea) dynamics and antibiotic resistance gene (ARG) presence. The experiment used a cattle manure/digestate ratio of 1:35, typical of real digesters, with AB concentrations set at low (2.5 mg kg−1 each) and high (7.5 mg kg−1 each) levels. The ABs affected cumulative CH4 production (ranging from 5939 to 6464 mL) only at the highest concentration. After 51 days, sulfamethoxazole reached residual levels, while enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin were only partially degraded (<50%), but ARGs were significantly reduced. The microbial community, particularly prokaryotes, exhibited resilience, maintaining efficient CH4 production. Overall findings strongly suggest that AD is an effective treatment for producing energy and good fertiliser, also reducing AB and ARG content as well as mitigating CH4 emissions into the atmosphere.
Study on Spatial-Temporal Evolution Law of Green Land Use Efficiency in Resource-Based Cities
Authors: Wu Yuling , Luo Min
Published: February 2025

Currently, urban land use in China faces many challenges, such as irrational land use structure and inefficiency, which is especially obvious in resource-based cities. In order to improve this situation, this paper uses the super-efficient Slack-Based Measure (SBM) model to measure the green land use efficiency (GLUE) of 113 resource-based cities in China, analyzes its spatial-temporal evolution law, and identifies the formation law of heterogeneous GLUE in resource-based cities using the Tobit model. The research results show that: (1) GLUE in resource-based cities shows year-on-year growth and has certain stage characteristics, in which the eastern region is the best, followed by the western and central regions, and the northeastern region is the worst; regenerative cities are significantly better than mature, growth, and declining cities; oil and gas cities are better than non-metal, forest, metal, and coal cities in turn; (2) High-value resource-based cities are concentrated in the eastern and western regions, while low-value ones are concentrated in the central and northeastern regions. Moreover, the number of high-value resource-based cities is continuously increasing, while the number of low-value ones is significantly decreasing; (3) The level of economic development, industrial structure, level of technological input, number of green patents granted, government financial support, sewage treatment rate, and policy constraints all exhibit significant positive effects on the GLUE of resource-based cities. Furthermore, there is notable heterogeneity among resource-based cities in different regions, development stages, and resource types. In the future, policies should be implemented on a city-by-city basis, and a sound long-term mechanism for policy implementation should be established to enhance the long-term awareness of managers and land users so as to improve the GLUE in resource-based cities.
A Combination Positioning Method for Boom-Type Roadheaders Based on Binocular Vision and Inertial Navigation
Authors: Cheng Jiameng , Wang Dongjie , Liu Jiming , Wang Pengjiang , Zheng Weixiong , Li Rui , Wu Miao
Published: February 2025

A positioning method for a roadheader based on fiber-optic strap-down inertial navigation and binocular vision is proposed to address the issue of low measurement accuracy of the mining machine position caused by single-sensor methods in underground coal mines. A vision system for the mining machine position is constructed based on the four-point target fixed on the body of the roadheader, and the position and attitude information of the roadheader are obtained by combining the inertial navigation on the body. To deal with the problem of position detection inaccuracies caused by the accumulation of errors in inertial navigation measurements over time and disturbances from body vibrations to the combined positioning system, an Adaptive Derivative Unscented Kalman Filtering (ADUKF) algorithm is proposed, which can suppress the impact of process variance uncertainties on the filtering. The simulation results demonstrate that, compared to the Unscented Kalman Filtering algorithm, the position errors in the three directions are reduced by 20%, 20.68%, and 28.57%, respectively. Experiments demonstrate that the method can compensate for the limitations of single-measurement methods and meet the positioning accuracy requirements for underground mining standards.
Protective Effects of BPC 157 on Liver, Kidney, and Lung Distant Organ Damage in Rats with Experimental Lower-Extremity Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury
Authors: Demirtaş Hüseyin , Özer Abdullah , Yıldırım Alperen Kutay , Dursun Ali Doğan , Sezen Şaban Cem , Arslan Mustafa
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Ischemia–reperfusion (I/R) injury can affect multiple distant organs following I/R in the lower extremities. BPC-157’s anti-inflammatory and free radical-neutralizing properties suggest its potential in mitigating ischemia–reperfusion damage. This study evaluates the protective effects of BPC-157 on remote organ damage, including the kidneys, liver, and lungs, in a rat model of skeletal muscle I/R injury. Materials and Methods: A total of 24 male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into four groups: sham (S), BPC-157(B), lower extremity I/R(IR) and lower extremity I/R+BPC-157(I/RB). Some 45 min of ischemia of lower extremity was followed by 2 h of reperfusion of limbs. BPC-157 was applied to groups B and I/RB at the beginning of the procedure. After 2 h of reperfusion, liver, kidney and lung tissues were harvested for biochemical and histopathological analyses. Results: In the histopathological examination, vascular and glomerular vacuolization, tubular dilation, hyaline casts, and tubular cell shedding in renal tissue were significantly lower in the I/RB group compared to other groups. Lung tissue showed reduced interstitial edema, alveolar congestion, and total damage scores in the I/RB group. Similarly, in liver tissue, sinusoidal dilation, necrotic cells, and mononuclear cell infiltration were significantly lower in the I/RB group. Additionally, the evaluation of TAS, TOS, OSI, and PON-1 revealed a statistically significant increase in antioxidant activity in the liver, lung, and kidney tissues of the I/RB group. Conclusions: The findings of this study demonstrate that BPC-157 exerts a significant protective effect against distant organ damage in the liver, kidneys, and lungs following lower extremity ischemia–reperfusion injury in rats.
Miescher’s Cheilitis as a Diagnostic and Therapeutic Challenge—A Case Report
Authors: Błochowiak Katarzyna , Kraiz Aya , Bowszyc-Dmochowska Monika , Paszyńska Elżbieta , Jenerowicz Dorota
Published: February 2025

Miescher’s cheilitis (MC) is a rare, idiopathic inflammatory condition marked by recurrent or persistent swelling of the lips and adjacent orofacial areas. This case study aims to explore the clinical presentation of Miescher’s cheilitis and evaluate the effectiveness of intralesional corticosteroid therapy as a treatment approach. A 58-year-old male presented with severe, persistent swelling of both the upper and lower lips, which had been ongoing for six months. The initial treatment with chloroquine was discontinued due to adverse effects and no efficacy. Subsequent treatment involved intralesional injections of triamcinolone acetonide, administered at concentrations of 10 mg/mL and 40 mg/mL. After a total of ten injection sessions, the patient experienced a nearly 70% reduction in lip swelling, with the therapeutic effect lasting for 9 months. Intralesional corticosteroid therapy proved to be an effective treatment for Miescher’s cheilitis, offering significant symptom relief and improvement in lip swelling when other treatments were ineffective or unsuitable. This case highlights the need for individualized treatment plans and underscores the importance of ongoing research to refine management strategies for this challenging condition.