bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Very low urinary marinobufagenin excretion reflects a high risk of disease progression in non-advanced CKD
Authors: Bolignano Davide , Greco Marta , Tripodi Loredana , D’Agostino Mario , Cianfrone Paola , Misiti Roberta , Pugliese Sara , Zicarelli Mariateresa , Musolino Michela , Foti Daniela Patrizia , Andreucci Michele , Coppolino Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) has now reached pandemic proportions but risk prediction towards end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) remains challenging. Kidney fibrosis is a key determinant in the transition from CKD to ESKD. In this prospective study, we investigated the prognostic significance of urinary Marinobufagenin (uMBG), a cardiotonic steroid with acknowledged pro-fibrotic activity, for stratifying the risk of CKD progression in individuals with non-advanced renal disease.

Methods

After baseline uMBG measurements, 108 CKD patients (eGFR 40.54 ± 17 mL/min/1.73 m2) were prospectively followed up to 24 months. The study (renal) endpoint was a composite of serum creatinine doubling, eGFR decline >25% from baseline values, or ESKD requiring chronic renal replacement therapy.

Results

During follow-up (mean 21 months), 32.4% of patients had progressive CKD. These individuals displayed almost halved baseline uMBG excretion as compared to others (p < 0.0001). At ROC analysis uMBG showed a remarkable diagnostic capacity on CKD progression (AUC 0.898) and patients with uMBG ≤310 pmol/L (Best ROC-derived cut-off) had a significantly faster progression to the endpoint (Log-rank 57.9; p < 0.0001). Restricted cubic splines fitting logistic and Cox-regression analyses revealed that the risk association between uMBG and CKD progression was best described by a curvilinear, inverse J-shaped trend, the highest risk associated with very low uMBG levels. This trend remained unaffected by adjustment for age, baseline eGFR, and 24 h-proteinuria.

Conclusion

In individuals with non-advanced CKD, very low urinary excretion of MBG reflects a more sustained risk of CKD progression over time. Validation studies are needed to generalize these findings in larger heterogeneous cohorts.
Integrated physiological and transcriptomic data revealed the cold-resistant mechanisms in reproductive organs of the ‘Jinguang’ pear cultivar
Authors: Sun Mengying , Lin Shun , Zhao Zezhao , Guo Weizhen , Jiang Min , Li Ying , Zhang Jun , Zhao Jingxian , Yang Minsheng
Published: February 2025

The Pyrus spp. (pears) are crucial for the fruit industry; however, low spring temperatures can cause frost damage to their reproductive organs, which poses challenges to the final yields. In this study, we evaluated the response of the flowers and young fruits of the ‘Jinguang’ pear cultivar to low temperatures from integrated phenotypic, physiological, and molecular approaches. We found that the flowers were less sensitive to low temperatures than the young fruits, of which their over-cooling points were −5.6°C and −5.0°C, respectively. Transcriptomic data showed that the differentially expressed genes from flowers and young fruits compared to the control conditions were primarily involved in the biosynthesis of flavonoids, phenylalanine, and tyrosine. Further weighted gene co-expression network analysis uncovered the core transcription factors that may be potentially involved in the pear cold resistance, including MYB20, WRKY53, and WRKY30. Our findings provide valuable insights and candidate gene resources for further exploration of the molecular mechanisms underlying cold resistance in pear trees.
Root rot in medicinal plants: a review of extensive research progress
Authors: Han Yu , Sun Tianqi , Tang Yuman , Yang Min , Gao Weiwei , Wang Lihong , Sui Chun
Published: February 2025

Root rot is a general term for soil-borne diseases that cause the necrosis and decay of underground plant parts. It has a wide host range and occurs in various types of plants, including crops, horticultural crops and medicinal plants. Due to the fact that medicinal plants generally have a long growth cycle and are primarily the root and rhizome herbs. This results in root rot causing more serious damage in medicinal plant cultivation than in other plants. Infected medicinal plants have shrivel or yellowed leaves, rotting rhizomes, and even death of the entire plant, resulting in a sharp decline in yield or even total crop failure, but also seriously reduce the commercial specifications and effective ingredient content of medicinal plants. The pathogens of root rot are complex and diverse, and Fusarium fungi have been reported as the most widespread pathogen. With the expansion of medicinal plant cultivation, root rot has occurred frequently in many medicinal plants such as Araliaceae, Fabaceae, Ranunculaceae, and Solanaceae and other medicinal plants. This article reviews recent research progress on root rot in medicinal plants, covering various aspects such as disease characteristics, occurrence, pathogen species, damage to medicinal plants, disease mechanisms, control measures, and genetic factors. The aim is to provide reference for better control of root rot of medicinal plants.
The near-optimal adjustment of carbon and nitrogen allocations into different organs in early-season rice cultivars with drastically different yield components under nitrogen application
Authors: Ning Wen , Su Lin , Shi Dandan , Ji Meina , Ouyang Xiang , Song Qingfeng , Shao Caihong , Zhu Xin-Guang , Chang Shuoqi
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Optimized photosynthesis and transport of photosynthate from the upper three leaves in a rice plant is critical for yield formation in rice.

Methods

In this study, we selected two high-yielding early-season rice cultivars, i.e. a large-panicle inbred rice Zhongzao39 (ZZ39) and a plural-panicle hybrid rice Lingliangyou268 (LLY268) with high effective panicle number, to study the translocation of photosynthate from the flag and the basipetal 2nd leaves to the other organs under different nitrogen application scenarios. 13CO2 labeling was study the proportion of newly assimilated carbon partitioned into different organs.

Results

Results demonstrate that the ratio that 13C assimilated in the flag leaves and the basipetal 2nd leaves, and the distribution ratio 13C in the organs of ZZ39 and LLY268 cultivars were not affected by nitrogen application. However, at the booting stage, the translocation rate of photosynthate was slower under N150 compared with CK in both flag and the basipetal 2nd leaves labeled with 13C. At the grain filling stage, an average of 51% of photosynthetic products labeled with 13C was translocated to the panicle in both cultivars under CK treatment; in contrast, only 43% of leaf photosynthate was translocated to panicles in the N150 treatment. At maturity, the photosynthate labeled with 13C distribution ratio in the panicle was greater in the basipetal 2nd leaves than in the flag leaves for ZZ39, whereas the opposite was observed in LLY268. These different photosynthate allocation patterns and their responses to nitrogen application were linked with their corresponding tiller number and number of grains per panicle.

Discussion

This study shows that early-season rice has the ability to flexibly adapt their carbon and nitrogen allocation patterns to gain optimized yield components for higher yield under different nitrogen status. Early season rice can be used as a model system to study the growth strategy selection of plants to changing environment conditions.
“Rat race” or “lying flat”? The influence of performance pressure on employees' work behavior
Authors: Liao Qianyi , Zhang Jinsong , Li Fangfang , Yang Shiyuan , Li Zhen , Yue Longhua , Dou Cunfang
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Performance pressure refers to employees' subjective perception of the necessity to achieve expected goals, accompanied by a sense of urgency and tension. This study explores how employees cope with performance pressure, focusing on two contrasting strategies: the “rat race” (proactive work behavior) or “lying flat” (work withdrawal). Grounded in the transactional theory of stress and affective event theory, this research aims to uncover the mechanisms through which performance pressure influences work behavior.

Methods

A moderated dual-mediation model was developed to examine the dual pathways of challenge appraisal and workplace anxiety as mediators in the relationship between performance pressure and work behavior. Data were collected through a two-stage survey involving 356 employees from various industries. Statistical analyses, including structural equation modeling, were used to test the hypothesized relationships.

Results

The findings reveal that performance pressure has a dual effect: it simultaneously stimulates challenge appraisal, promoting proactive work behavior, and induces workplace anxiety, leading to work withdrawal behavior. Additionally, learning goal orientation moderates these effects. Specifically, it strengthens the positive relationship between performance pressure and challenge appraisal while weakening the link between performance pressure and workplace anxiety.

Discussion

This study highlights the complex and dual nature of performance pressure in influencing employee behavior. By identifying learning goal orientation as a critical moderator, organizations can better understand how to harness the positive aspects of performance pressure while mitigating its negative effects. These insights provide practical guidance for managing performance pressure and minimizing associated risks in the workplace.
Sleep patterns and smartphone use among left-behind children: a latent class analysis and its association with depressive symptoms
Authors: Han Xue , Li Cheng-Han , Miao Heng , Xu Su , Yan Wen-Jing , Chen Juan
Published: February 2025

Background

Left-behind children in China face challenges in sleep patterns, technology use, and mental health. This study uses an individual-centered approach to derive behavioral profiles associated with depressive symptoms.

Methods

Data from 131,586 left-behind children aged 8 to 18 years from the Chinese Psychological Health Guard for Children and Adolescents Project were analyzed. Participants were recruited from 569 centers across schools, community institutes, orphanages, and children’s hospitals throughout China. Latent class analysis was conducted using weekday and weekend sleep duration and smartphone use as indicators. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D).

Results

Four distinct classes emerged: Sufficient Sleep Low Users (23.6%), Moderate Sleep Medium Users (25.2%), Limited Sleep High Users (22.1%), and Healthy Sleep Low Users (29.2%). Significant differences in CES-D scores were found between classes (F(3, 131579) = 4929, p <.001, η² = 0.101). The Limited Sleep High Users class reported the highest levels of depressive symptoms (M = 11.60, SE = 0.0658), while the Sufficient Sleep Low Users class reported the lowest (M = 3.67, SE = 0.0346). A linear relationship between sleep duration and depressive symptoms was observed. Significant weekday-weekend differences in smartphone use were noted in the unhealthy categories.

Conclusions

This study reveals complex associations between sleep patterns, smartphone use, and depressive symptoms among left-behind children. The identified behavioral profiles provide insights into population heterogeneity and inform targeted intervention strategies. Findings emphasize the importance of addressing both sleep and technology use in mental health initiatives for this vulnerable population.
Predictive model of positive attitudes in Spanish health care students towards older people: assessment and associated factors
Authors: González-Moreno Jesús , Agustí Ana Isabel , Guillem-Saiz Javier , Parra-Rizo María Antonia , Cantero-García María
Published: February 2025

Background

Attitudes influence how individuals interact toward older people, which in turn impacts the way people care for them. This is a key factor to consider for future health professionals who will frequently work with older individuals. This issue has been approached by simply quantifying these attitudes (negative, neutral, or positive). However, this work aims to not only quantify these attitudes but to study other associated variables and develop a predictive model of positive attitudes toward the older people in a sample of Spanish university students of health care careers.

Methods

A total of 338 students were surveyed using a sociodemographic questionnaire and two validated scales: the Spanish versions of the Kogan Scale of Attitudes toward Older People (KAOP) and the Global Assessment of Character Strengths-24 (GACS-24). This study employed a quantitative, cross-sectional, ex post facto design, with data analyzed through correlation and regression techniques to identify predictors of positive attitudes toward older adults.

Results

The results exhibited significantly positive attitudes toward older people. The analysis identified “love” (a character strength) and “interest in aging issues” as significant predictors of these attitudes.

Conclusions

This study concludes that positive attitudes toward older adults are significantly associated with the character strength of ‘love’ and ‘interest in aging issues,’ highlighting the importance of these variables in shaping attitudes among future health professionals.
Treatment of neuropathic pain with repeated low-dose MDMA: a case report
Authors: Gasser Peter , Liechti Matthias E. , Holze Friederike
Published: February 2025

A 64-year-old male patient who suffered from traumatic life experiences and neuropathic pain after oncological chemotherapy was treated with medium to high doses of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and high doses and microdoses of methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). At the beginning of treatment, the patient did not experience any acute subjective effects of LSD at a dose of 200 µg. After increasing the LSD dose to 400 µg, he experienced subjective acute effects, and the first lasting therapeutic effects were observed. After changing from LSD to MDMA at both high doses (150-175 mg) and repeated low doses (12.5-25 mg), the patient exhibited marked improvements in neuropathic pain that were sustained even after stopping repeated MDMA treatment. MDMA mini/microdosing has not yet been broadly investigated. This case documents benefits of low doses of MDMA for the treatment of a pain disorder. Further research is needed on effects of MDMA on pain.
Racial disparities in acute care utilization among individuals with myasthenia gravis
Authors: Qi Cynthia , Narayanaswami Pushpa , Anderson Ashley E. L. , Gelinas Deborah , Li Yuebing , Guptill Jeffrey T. , Amirthaganesan Dakshinamoorthy , Ward Charlotte , Panchal Rupesh , Goyal Amit , Phillips Glenn
Published: February 2025

Objective

In myasthenia gravis (MG), evidence on the impact of social determinants of health on disparities in disease burden and healthcare resource utilization is limited. This study aimed to investigate the independent association between race/ethnicity and acute care utilization during the 2 years post-diagnosis among patients with MG.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted among adults (≥18 years) with newly diagnosed MG in the United States using Optum’s de-identified Market Clarity Data from January 1, 2010, to December 31, 2019. Multivariable regression models were used to assess the association between acute care utilization and race/ethnicity, insurance, exacerbation at index, and other covariates.

Results

A total of 7,058 patients met the study inclusion criteria, of whom 57% (n = 4,052) identified as Caucasian, 6% (n = 445) African American, 3% (n = 235) Hispanic, 1% (n = 94) Asian, and 32% (n = 2,232) with missing race/ethnicity information. Compared with patients identifying as Caucasian, those identifying as African American had 37% higher odds of having an emergency department visit in year 1, and those identifying as Hispanic had 70% increase in odds of having a hospitalization event in year 2 post-diagnosis. Among other covariates, Medicaid usage, exacerbation at index, and number of outpatient visits were significantly associated with acute care utilization.

Conclusion

Racial disparities significantly impacted acute care utilization in the first 2 years post-MG diagnosis. Future studies should aim to examine specific factors that may contribute to disparities such as barriers to healthcare access, greater severity of MG symptoms, and poorly controlled disease.
Exploring challenges and coping strategies in providing care for older adults with dementia: a qualitative study conducted in China
Authors: Cheng Yanan , Yang Meijiazi , Ma Sha
Published: February 2025

Background

The increasing prevalence of dementias in China has imposed a substantial burden on caregivers, posing a serious threaten to their physical and mental well-being. It is imperative to explore practical measures to alleviate the stress experienced by those caregivers of older adults with dementia.

Methods

A semi-structured questionnaire was adopted for conducting interviews with the participants from December 2022 to January 2023. Subsequently, the interviews were meticulously recorded and transcribed in their entirety, followed by a rigorous analysis of the resulting data and information.

Results

A total of 17 participants who provided care for older adults with dementia were interviewed across various settings including rural areas, communities, hospitals, and nursing homes in Shandong Province. These caregivers encountered challenges such as limited social interaction, significant mental strain, deteriorating physical health, financial insufficiency, and a lack of professional expertise. The current social support systems were deemed insufficient for families caring for older adults with dementia. To alleviate the burden on dementia caregivers, particularly for those with low-income status, the government needs to prioritize enhancing the coverage of the long-term healthcare system and expanding the essential medication list. Given the growing population of older adults in China and the fact that most individuals with dementia are cared for by family members, it is recommended to establish a multifaceted support system involving collaboration among government, social organizations, and volunteers within both urban and rural communities.

Conclusion

The gradual expansion of coverage of long-term care insurance, the proactive inclusion of dementia treatment drugs into the essential medication list, and optimization of a diversified dementia care system ought to be a matter of significant concern.
Attitudes of polish medical students toward organ donation
Authors: Mikla Marzena , Cybulska Anna Maria , Rios Antonio , Panczyk Mariusz , Rachubińska Kamila , Kotwas Artur , Karakiewicz Beata , Grochans Elżbieta , Schneider-Matyka Daria
Published: February 2025

Background

The aim of the study was to analyze determinants affecting attitudes toward organ donation among medical students at medical universities in Poland.

Materials and methods

The study involved 1,348 medical students. It was performed using a validated questionnaire of attitude toward organ donation and transplantation (ODT) [PCID-DTO RIOS: A questionnaire designed by the International Collaborative Organ Donation project about organ transplantation and donation].

Results

It was shown that those who would not donate their family member’s organs for transplantation were far more likely to believe it was not their moral duty (p = 0.013) and to feel no solidarity with those in need (p = 0.000). Those who spoke to their families believed it was their moral duty (p = 0.000), and believed they would do it out of solidarity with those in need (p = 0.000). It was found that having family conversations about donating one’s organs for transplantation was statistically significantly related to being a blood donor (p = 0.002), fear of desecration/disfigurement of the body after death in case of organ donation (p = 0. 000), a belief that it may be necessary to become an organ recipient in the future (p = 0.000), and knowledge of loved ones’ opinions about ODT (father p = 0.000, mother p = 0.000), partner (p = 0.000).

Conclusion

1. The reluctance to donate the organs of loved ones for transplantation is accompanied by a lack of a sense of moral obligation and a lack of solidarity with those in need. Conversely, conversations among loved ones about organ donation are thought-provoking, causing a sense of moral obligation and solidarity with those in need. 2. Regardless of the stance on organ donation and family discussions on the subject, the respondents do not care what happens to the body after organ donation, but they also do not know the opinions of their loved ones about ODT. 3. Conversations with loved ones contribute to the acceptance of circumstances in which organs would be harvested for transplantation without consent.
Spatio-temporal evolution characteristics and influencing factors of environmental welfare performance in Chinese cities
Authors: Zhang Yipeng , Wang Meixia
Published: February 2025

Background

In the process of China’s urbanization, issues such as air pollution, water pollution, soil pollution, and noise pollution have become increasingly prominent, severely constraining the sustainable development of cities. The resultant decline in environmental welfare performance (EWP) not only affects residents’ quality of life but may also lead to public health issues, increasing healthcare costs, and subsequently impacting social stability and economic development.

Methods

This paper incorporates factors closely related to environmental pollution, such as residents’ health and social welfare, into the analytical framework of environmental welfare performance. Using the Hybrid-Network-DEA model, we measure the EWP of 240 cities in China, and then investigate the spatial distribution characteristics and spatio-temporal evolution patterns of EWP. Finally, empirical testing of the factors influencing EWP is conducted using spatial econometric methods.

Results

The overall level of EWP in 240 Chinese cities from 2004 to 2019 is relatively low, but it generally shows a wavy upward trend. Meanwhile, notable regional disparities exist in EWP, with the highest average performance in the east, followed by the west, and the lowest in the central. The main source of regional differences in EWP lies in inter-regional disparities. The greatest internal disparities are found in the east, while the largest inter-regional disparities are between the east and the west. A pronounced positive spatial autocorrelation is observed in the EWP among Chinese cities. Economic development, opening-up, financial development, digital infrastructure, and population density significantly promote the local EWP, whereas the industrial structure and transportation structure have exerted opposite effects. Additionally, the enhancement of EWP in neighboring regions is also notably facilitated by economic development, opening-up, financial development, and digital infrastructure. Within the three major regions, the direct and indirect effects of various influencing factors exhibit significant differences.

Conclusion

Based on these insights, we suggest comprehensively improving environmental welfare efficiency, narrowing regional disparities, strengthening spatial agglomeration effects, optimizing industrial structure, and strengthening financial support and digital infrastructure construction.
MAD-Onto: an ontology design for mobile app development
Authors: Abu-Salih Bilal , Al-Tawil Marwan , Khoury Ansar , Al-Qudah Dana A. , Abu Zaid Isra’a , Alabdale Marwa , Azar Dima
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mobile app development has rapidly evolved into a crucial aspect of modern technology, driving innovation across various industries and transforming user experiences globally. The dynamic nature of mobile technology requires developers to navigate a complex landscape of platforms, devices, and user requirements. Effective management and sharing of knowledge are essential to address these challenges, ensuring streamlined development processes and enhanced collaboration among stakeholders.

Methods

To this end, ontologies have emerged as powerful tools for structuring and standardizing domain-specific knowledge. This paper introduces MAD-onto, a comprehensive ontology designed specifically for the mobile app development domain. The ontology is constructed by identifying key concepts, defining classes and their hierarchies, establishing class properties, and creating instances relevant to mobile app development. To ensure robustness, the ontology is evaluated using a multi-criteria evaluation metric, focusing on consistency, completeness, conciseness, expandability, and sensitiveness. Additionally, SWRL rules are applied to validate and enforce logical constraints within the ontology.

Results

Through these rigorous evaluation methods, MAD-onto demonstrates its utility in providing a structured framework for the mobile app development lifecycle, facilitating better decision-making, collaboration, and efficiency.

Discussion

The findings highlight the significance of ontology-driven approaches in addressing the complexities of mobile app development and set a foundation for future research and advancements in this field.
Defining familiarity in nursing homes providing care for residents with dementia: a scoping review
Authors: Sun Joanna , Brennan Sumiyo , Doan Therese
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study explores the underpinning definitions associated with familiarity in the context of dementia inclusive design and nursing home environment.

Background

Environmental design in nursing homes impacts the quality of life and care of residents with dementia. One of the key principles of design is the need for the environment to achieve a sense of familiarity. However, there are divergent perspectives regarding the term “familiarity.” Inconsistent definitions are challenging to understand, and they continue to impact the implementation of good design. To that end, this scoping review examines the definitions and associated with familiarity, dementia, and the design of nursing home environments.

Methods

The Arksey and O'Malley methodological framework and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extension for Scoping Reviews ensure the rigor of the scoping review. Searches were conducted using six databases for peer-reviewed publications in English from 1991 to 2023. Search terms included “dementia,” “nursing home,” “long-term care,” “familiar,” “familiarity,” and “environments.”

Results

The searches yielded 245 publications. Of those, 46 studies from 19 countries were included in this review. The review uncovered three central themes and compelling evidence citing the inclusion of homelike environments. Emphasis on design considerations includes the wellbeing of the designated population and the need to embrace multisensory integration in the design process.

Conclusions

A strong link exists between familiarity and key design considerations, such as a homelike environment, wellbeing, and multisensory integration. These considerations can enhance the effectiveness of the design of familiar environments.
Whole-genome amplification as a tool to improve bacterial detection by PCR in microbiological samples after endodontic treatment
Authors: Chianca Gabriela Ceccon , Fendeler Caroline Corrêa , Junior Sérgio Pinto Chaves , Pereira Gabriella Lorena Dias , Póvoa Helvécio Cardoso Corrêa , Antunes Lívia Azeredo Alves , Antunes Leonardo Santos , Iorio Natalia Lopes Pontes Póvoa
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Microorganisms have an important role in the pathogenesis of endodontic disease. Significant advances have been made to increase the sensitivity of microbial detection, identification and enumeration in endodontic samples. The aim of the present study is to compare culture and whole-genome amplification (WGA) followed by PCR assays in the detection of bacteria before and after chemical mechanical preparation (CMP) of root canals.

Methods

Ten uniradicular teeth with primary endodontic infections were analyzed. Microbiological samples were collected before and after CMP using paper points, which were separated into two groups: (i) culture assay samples were plated onto Brucella agar with 5% defibrinated sheep's blood, menadione and hemin and incubated anaerobically for 14 days at 36°C; (ii) DNA was extracted from molecular assay samples and subject to WGA by isothermal strand displacement with Phi29 DNA polymerase followed by PCR to determine the presence of bacteria.

Results

In both assays, samples before CMP showed the presence of bacteria in all 10 teeth. After CMP, however, bacterial detection differed in the assays performed (p = 0.0198). The presence of bacteria was detected in 70% (7 of 10) of the samples by WGA followed by PCR, where only 10% (1 of 10) had demonstrated bacterial growth in the culture method.

Conclusion

The combination of WGA followed by PCR increased the detection of microorganisms from root canal samples after endodontic treatment using NaOCl as a CMP irrigant. So this combination of techniques can represent an important tool to improve the detection of microorganisms in endodontic research.
Acute diquat poisoning induces paralytic ileus and hepatic portal venous gas: a case report
Authors: Yin Hongji , Sun Dongxing , Liu Fengting , Xin Ruosai
Published: February 2025

Diquat is a non-selective, broad-spectrum herbicide. Although its toxicity is significantly lower than paraquat, it still has a high mortality rate when ingested in large quantities. This report presents the case of a 21-year-old female who developed severe paralytic ileus and the rare radiological finding of hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG) after ingesting 150 mL of diquat. Despite aggressive treatment, including gastric lavage, drainage, and blood purification, the patient ultimately succumbed to multiple organ failure. This report explores the potential causes of HPVG, including infection and elevated intestinal pressure, and highlights the possibility that montmorillonite may have exacerbated this process.
Do What You Say—Computing Personal Values Associated with Professions Based on the Words They Use
Authors: Jha Aditya , Gloor Peter A.
Published: February 2025

Members of a profession frequently show similar personality characteristics. In this research, we leverage recent advances in NLP to compute personal values using a moral values framework, distinguishing between four different personas that assist in categorizing different professions by personal values: “fatherlanders”—valuing tradition and authority, “nerds”—valuing scientific achievements, “spiritualists”—valuing compassion and non-monetary achievements, and “treehuggers”—valuing sustainability and the environment. We collected 200 YouTube videos and podcasts for each professional category of lawyers, academics, athletes, engineers, creatives, managers, and accountants, converting their audio to text. We also categorize these professions by team player personas into “bees”—collaborative creative team players, “ants”—competitive hard workers, and “leeches”—selfish egoists using pre-trained models. We find distinctive personal value profiles for each of our seven professions computed from the words that members of each profession use.
Analytical MPC Algorithm Using Steady-State Process Model
Authors: Marusak Piotr M.
Published: February 2025

For some classes of control plants (e.g., large time delay or inverse response), the PID controllers may offer unsatisfactory results; on the other hand, a Model Predictive Control (MPC) algorithm based on a linear model may offer insufficient control quality when applied to nonlinear control plants. To improve the MPC algorithm operation, one can use a steady-state process model; this paper describes how to do this skillfully. The obtained algorithm, based on the popular Dynamic Matrix Control (DMC) algorithm, is detailed. The proposed approach consists in modifying the analytical version of the DMC algorithm in such a way that it can still be expressed as the control law. Thus, the algorithm can still be applied to fast control plants, requiring short sampling times. Though the proposed approach does not modify the DMC algorithm much, it offers improvement in the control quality when the algorithm is employed in a nonlinear control plant. Experiments illustrating the efficiency of the proposed approach were conducted in the control system of a nonlinear chemical reactor. The results show improvement in the control quality compared to a case when the classical MPC algorithm is used.
Nanosatellite Autonomous Navigation via Extreme Learning Machine Using Magnetometer Measurements
Authors: Goracci Gilberto , Curti Fabio , de Guzman Mark Anthony
Published: February 2025

This work presents an algorithm to perform autonomous navigation in spacecraft using onboard magnetometer data during GPS outages. An Extended Kalman Filter (EKF) exploiting magnetic field measurements is combined with a Single-Hidden-Layer Feedforward Neural Network (SLFN) trained via the Extreme Learning Machine to improve the accuracy of the state estimate. The SLFN is trained using GPS data when available and predicts the state correction to be applied to the EKF estimates. The CHAOS-7 magnetic field model is used to generate the magnetometer measurements, while a 13th-order IGRF model is exploited by the EKF. Tests on simulated data showed that the algorithm improved the state estimate provided by the EKF by a factor of 2.4 for a total of 51 days when trained on 5 days of GPS data.
Improvements in Tolerance to Heat Stress in Rice via Molecular Mechanisms and Rice Varieties
Authors: Liu He , Wei Yiting , Xia Saisai , Xie Wei , Ren Deyong , Rao Yuchun
Published: February 2025

Global warming affects crop growth and development, threatening food security. As one of the essential food crops, rice is severely affected by high temperature stress, which compromises both its yield and quality. Therefore, gaining a deep understanding of the molecular mechanisms by which rice responds to heat stress and breeding rice varieties that are tolerant to such stress is crucial for maintaining food security. This review summarizes the impacts of heat stress on yield and quality-related traits at different growth and development stages of rice, the molecular mechanisms of rice perception and response to heat stress, and the improvement in and breeding of heat-tolerant rice varieties using existing superior alleles/QTLs. We also discuss the opportunities and challenges in creating highly heat-tolerant rice germplasm, providing new ideas and insights for the future breeding of heat-tolerant rice varieties.
Inversion and Fine Grading of Tidal Flat Soil Salinity Based on the CIWOABP Model
Authors: Zhu Jin , Yang Shuowen , Li Shuyan , Zhou Nan , Shen Yi , Xing Jincheng , Xu Lixin , Hong Zhichao , Yang Yifei
Published: February 2025

This study on soil salinity inversion in coastal tidal flats based on Sentinel-2 remote sensing imagery is significant for improving saline–alkali soils and advancing tidal flat agriculture. This study proposes an improved approach for soil salinity inversion in coastal tidal flats using Sentinel-2 imagery and a new enhanced chaotic mapping adaptive whale optimization neural network (CIWOABP) algorithm. Novel spectral indices were developed to enhance correlations with salinity, significantly outperforming traditional indexes. The CIWOABP model achieved superior validation accuracy (R2 = 0.815) and reduced root mean square error (RMSE) and mean absolute error (MAE) compared to other machine learning models. The results enable the precise mapping of salinity levels, aiding salt-tolerant crop cultivation and sustainable agricultural management. This method offers a reliable framework for rapid salinity monitoring and precision farming in coastal regions.
Detection of Aging Maize Seed Vigor and Calculation of Germ Growth Speed Using an Improved YOLOv8-Seg Network
Authors: Yu Helong , Ling Xi , Chen Zhenyang , Bi Chunguang , Zhang Wanwu
Published: February 2025

Crop yields are influenced by various factors, including seed quality and environmental conditions. Detecting seed vigor is a critical task for seed researchers, as it plays a vital role in seed quality assessment. Traditionally, this evaluation was performed manually, which is time-consuming and labor-intensive. To address this limitation, this study integrates the ConvUpDownModule (a customized convolutional module), C2f-DSConv(C2f module with Integrated Dynamic Snake Convolution), and T-SPPF (the SPPF module integrated with the transformer multi-head attention mechanism) into the VT-YOLOv8-Seg network (the improved YOLOv8-Seg Network), an enhancement of the YOLOv8-Seg architecture. The ConvUpDownModule reduces the computational complexity and model parameters. The C2f-DSConv leverages flexible convolutional kernels to enhance the accuracy of maize germ edge segmentation. The T-SPPF integrates global information to improve multi-scale segmentation performance. The proposed model is designed for detecting and segmenting maize seeds and germs, facilitating seed germination detection and germination speed computation. In detection tasks, the VT-YOLOv8-Seg model achieved 97.3% accuracy, 97.9% recall, and 98.5% mAP50, while in segmentation tasks, it demonstrated 97.2% accuracy, 97.7% recall, and 98.2% mAP50. Comparative experiments with Mask R-CNN, YOLOv5-Seg, and YOLOv7-Seg further validated the superior performance of our model in both detection and segmentation. Additionally, the impact of seed aging on maize seed growth and development was investigated through artificial aging studies. Key metrics such as germination rate and germ growth speed, both closely associated with germination vigor, were analyzed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed approach for seed vigor assessment.
Establishment of Whole-Rice-Plant Model and Calibration of Characteristic Parameters Based on Segmented Hollow Stalks
Authors: Yang Ranbing , Wang Peiyu , Qing Yiren , Chen Dongquan , Chen Lu , Sun Wenbin , Xu Kang
Published: February 2025

To address the limitations of the current discrete element model of rice plants in terms of accurately reflecting structural differences and threshing characteristics, this study proposes a whole-rice-plant modeling method based on segmented hollow stalks and establishes a whole-rice-plant model that accurately represents the bending and threshing characteristics of the actual rice plant. Initially, based on the characteristics of the rice plant, the rice stalk was segmented into three sections of hollow stalks with distinct structures—namely, the primary stalk, the secondary stalk, and the tertiary stalk—ensuring that the model closely resembles actual rice plants. Secondly, the mechanical and contact parameters for each structure of the rice plant were measured and calibrated through mechanical and contact tests. Subsequently, utilizing the Hertz–Mindlin contact model, a multi-dimensional element particle arrangement method was employed to establish a discrete element model of the entire rice plant. The bending characteristics of the stalk and the threshing characteristics of the rice were calibrated using three-point bending tests and impact threshing tests. The results indicated calibration errors in the bending resistance force of 4.46%, 3.95%, and 2.51% for the three-section stalk model, and the calibration error for the rice model’s threshing rate was 1.86%, which can accurately simulate the bending characteristics of the stalk and the threshing characteristics of the rice plant. Finally, the contact characteristics of the model were validated through a stack angle verification test, which revealed that the relative error of the stacking angle did not exceed 7.52%, confirming the accuracy of the contact characteristics of the rice plant model. The findings of this study provide foundational models and a theoretical basis for the simulation of and analytical applications related to rice threshing and cleaning.
Optimization of Rotary Blade Wear and Tillage Resistance Based on DEM-MBD Coupling Model
Authors: Mao Zhiqiang , Zhang Yang , Zhang Keping , Wang Jiuxin , Yang Junqian , Zheng Xiaobao , Chen Shuaikang , Yang Zhongqing , Luo Biao
Published: February 2025

To solve the problems of high tillage resistance and the rapid wear of the rotary blade during tillage, this study employed a coupled algorithm of the discrete element method (DEM) and multi-body dynamics (MBD) with Hertz–Mindlin with JKR particle contact theory to establish a rotary blade–sandy soil model. The interaction between the rotary blade and sandy soil was analyzed. The results indicated that the lateral and horizontal resistances of the rotary blade reached the peak values near the maximum tilling depth, whereas the vertical resistance reached its peak earlier. Blade wear predominantly occurred on the side cutting edge, bending zone edge, and sidelong edge, with the most significant wear observed on the sidelong edge, followed by the bending zone edge and side cutting edge, which showed similar wear patterns. To reduce wear and tillage resistance, Box–Behnken optimization was applied to optimize the blade’s local parameters. The optimal parameters—the height of the tangent edge end face was 51 mm, the bending radius was 28 mm, and the bending angle was 116°—reduced wear by 22.4% and tillage resistance by 12%. A soil disturbance analysis demonstrated that the optimized blade performs better in terms of tillage width compared to the unoptimized blade. The optimized rotary blade achieves the effects of reduced resistance and wear, improves the lifespan of the blade, reducing material loss, and meeting the requirements of sustainable agricultural production.
Inversion of Soil Moisture Content in Silage Corn Root Zones Based on UAV Remote Sensing
Authors: Da Qihong , Yan Jixuan , Li Guang , Guo Zichen , Li Haolin , Wang Wenning , Li Jie , Ma Weiwei , Li Xuchun , Cheng Kejing
Published: February 2025

Accurately monitoring soil moisture content (SMC) in the field is crucial for achieving precision irrigation management. Currently, the development of UAV platforms provides a cost-effective method for large-scale SMC monitoring. This study investigates silage corn by employing UAV remote sensing technology to obtain multispectral imagery during the seedling, jointing, and tasseling stages. Field experimental data were integrated, and supervised classification was used to remove soil background and image shadows. Canopy reflectance was extracted using masking techniques, while Pearson correlation analysis was conducted to assess the linear relationship strength between spectral indices and SMC. Subsequently, convolutional neural networks (CNNs), back-propagation neural networks (BPNNs), and partial least squares regression (PLSR) models were constructed to evaluate the applicability of these models in monitoring SMC before and after removing the soil background and image shadows. The results indicated that: (1) After removing the soil background and image shadows, the inversion accuracy of SMC for CNN, BPNN, and PLSR models improved at all growth stages. (2) Among the different inversion models, the accuracy from high to low was CNN, PLSR, BPNN. (3) From the perspective of different growth stages, the inversion accuracy from high to low was seedling stage, tasseling stage, jointing stage. The findings provide theoretical and technical support for UAV multispectral remote sensing inversion of SMC in silage corn root zones and offer validation for large-scale soil moisture monitoring using remote sensing.
An Integrated Statistical, Geostatistical and Hydrogeological Approach for Assessing and Modelling Groundwater Salinity and Quality in Nile Delta Aquifer
Authors: Shaddad Sameh , Castrignanò Annamaria , Di Curzio Diego , Rusi Sergio , Abu Salem Hend S. , Nosair Ahmed M.
Published: February 2025

The phenomenon of seawater intrusion is becoming increasingly problematic, particularly in low-lying coastal regions and areas that rely heavily on aquifers for their freshwater supply. It is, therefore, vital to address the causes and consequences of this phenomenon in order to ensure the security of water resources and the sustainable use of water. The objective of this paper was twofold: firstly, to delineate zones with different salinization levels over time; secondly, to investigate the factors controlling seawater intrusion of the Nile Delta aquifer. Aquifer data were collected in Sharkia governorate, Egypt, over three historical periods of years: 1996, 2007, and 2018. The dataset used to create the linear model of coregionalization consisted of hydrogeological (water level), hydrodynamic (pH, EC, Na, Mg, K, Ca, HCO3, SO4), and auxiliary (distances from salt and freshwater sources) variables. Cokriging was applied to produce spatial thematic maps of the studied variables for the three years of the survey. In addition, factorial cokriging was applied to understand the processes beyond the change in the aquifer water quality and map the zones with similar characteristics. Results of mapping the first factor at long range over the three years indicated that there was an increase in seawater intrusion, especially in the northeastern part of the study area. The main cause of aquifer salinization over time was the depletion of the groundwater resource due to overexploitation.
Impact of Mid-Season Drought on Tuber Yield, Biomass, Harvest Index, and Water-Use Efficiency of Jerusalem Artichoke in Tropical Regions
Authors: Ruttanaprasert Ruttanachira , Jogloy Sanun , Kaewkhieo-Ngam Thanawat , Janket Anon , Puttha Ratchanee , Aninbon Chorkaew
Published: February 2025

Mid-season drought is increasingly recognized as a major constraint on tuber production in Jerusalem artichoke. The ability of different genotypes to maintain high yields under such conditions is a critical component of drought tolerance. This study aimed to investigate the effects of mid-season drought on tuber yield, biomass, harvest index, tuber water-use efficiency (WUEt), and biomass water-use efficiency (WUEb) across various Jerusalem artichoke genotypes with differing levels of drought tolerance. The experiment was conducted in pots using a 2 × 5 factorial combination in a randomized complete block design with four replications over two years. Factor A consisted of two water regimes: field capacity (FC) and mid-season drought. Factor B included five genotypes: JA 3, JA 125, JA 15, JA 89, and CN 52867. Mid-season drought significantly reduced tuber dry weight, biomass, WUEt, and WUEb, while increasing the harvest index. Significant differences were observed among genotypes for tuber dry weight, biomass, harvest index, WUEt, and WUEb under both water regimes. CN 52867 and JA 89 were characterized as drought-tolerant genotypes with high water-use efficiency and high yield potential. JA 3 was also noted for its lower yield reduction under stress. These three genotypes serve as valuable genetic resources for breeding programs aimed at developing progeny populations with enhanced yield potential and drought tolerance, particularly for mid-season drought-prone environments.