bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ability emotional intelligence profiles and real-life outcomes: a latent profile analysis of a large adult sample
Authors: Haag Christophe , Bellinghausen Lisa , Poirier Clément
Published: February 2025

Few studies have examined emotional intelligence (EI) following a person-centered approach to identify different types of EI profiles and their relationship to everyday life outcomes. Even rarer are those using an “ability” approach of EI (AEI) and related “performance-based” tests, which are considered promising. This study fills this gap by identifying AEI profiles and linking them to everyday outcomes such as health, wellbeing, and decision-making. The QEg (“QE” for Emotional Quotient - Quotient Emotional in French - and “g” for the general population), an ability-based measure of EI, along with other measures, was administered to 2,877 French adults. We then ran latent profile analysis (LPA) and identified three latent profiles within a heterogeneous population. The full emotion processing (FEP) profile outperforms the two others on key domains of life such as stress perception, home-work interaction, gratitude and satisfaction with life, emotional burnout prevention, and decision-making. Our research reveals the need for individualized AEI training programs tailored to three distinct profiles, addressing foundational skills for those with minimal or partial emotional processing while refining existing strengths for those with full emotional processing. Targeting interventions to specific profile characteristics could enhance the effectiveness of AEI training and promote improved wellbeing and life outcomes.
(State) empathy: how context matters
Authors: Heyers Katrin , Schrödter Robin , Pfeifer Lena Sophie , Ocklenburg Sebastian , Güntürkün Onur , Stockhorst Ursula
Published: February 2025

Empathy is a pivotal capacity that is essential for human interaction. It encompasses cognitive empathy, which is the ability to understand another individual’s emotional state, and affective empathy, which is to express an appropriate affective response to another person’s emotional state. Recent advancements in empathy research have highlighted the contextual nature of both cognitive and affective empathy, signifying their susceptibility to modulation by situational factors. Despite this progress, a comprehensive mechanistic understanding of empathy as a form of situated cognition that integrates both state and trait dimensions remains scarce. This review outlines the interplay of trait and state empathy and how state empathy emerges from a dynamic interplay between bottom-up processes and top-down control mechanisms. It further covers which situational factors increase versus decrease state empathy. In addition, to assist in selecting appropriate measurement tools for measuring trait and/or state empathy, the review categorizes existing empathy measurement instruments. Taken together, this review provides a roadmap for enhancing the efficacy of future empathy studies by: (1) outlining the current theoretical and methodological considerations for disentangling trait and state empathy; (2) organizing existing empathy measurement tools to aid researchers in selecting appropriate tools for future studies; (3) describing the interplay between bottom-up processes and top-down control mechanisms for state and trait empathy; and (4) reviewing factors that increase or decrease state empathy to prevent their potential interference and enable a more accurate assessment of empathy.
Deviation from the balanced time perspective and depression and anxiety symptoms: the mediating roles of cognitive-behavioral emotion regulation in a cross-cultural model
Authors: Abdollahpour Ranjbar Hamed , Altan-Atalay Ayse , Habibi Asgarabad Mojtaba , Turan Bulent , Eskin Mehmet
Published: February 2025

Background

Time perspective (TP) influences how individuals perceive and classify their past, present, and future, impacting their cognition, behavior, and psychological outcomes. Deviation from the balanced time perspective (DBTP) is associated with mental health problems (e.g., depression and anxiety). Emotion regulation (ER) encompasses cognitive and behavioral processes to regulate emotions, with maladaptive strategies like rumination and withdrawal linked to depression and anxiety. Despite extensive research on TP and ER, their joint impact, particularly in the context of depression and anxiety, and cultural differences remain underexplored.

Method

Participants (N = 513 Iranian, N = 470 Turkish) completed self-report questionnaires on time perspective, cognitive and behavioral ER, anxiety, and depression symptoms. A moderated mediation model was assessed, incorporating the exogenous variable of DBTP, with ER strategies as mediators, and endogenous variables of depressive and anxiety symptoms. The model accounted for cultural variations in the paths as a moderator.

Results

Significant associations were found between DBTP, ER strategies, depression, and anxiety symptoms. Mediation analyses revealed that both cognitive and behavioral ER strategies (except for adaptive behavioral ER strategies) significantly mediated the associations between DBTP and depression and anxiety. Additionally, multigroup analyses suggested that these mediating effects were consistent across Iranian and Turkish samples, with exceptions in adaptive cognitive ER strategies.

Conclusion

The study highlights the crucial role of TPs and ER strategies in predicting anxiety and depression symptoms, with notable cultural nuances. Specifically, maladaptive strategies exacerbate symptoms, while adaptive strategies mitigate them primarily in Iranian contexts. Cultural subtleties are discussed in detail.
Factors associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder among Tunisian children
Authors: Guedria Asma , Guedria Mohamed , Ben Fredj Manel , Ayoub Randaline , Ben Abid Hela , Mhalla Ahmed , Slama Hela
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a chronic neurodevelopmental condition that affects millions of children and adolescents worldwide. Knowledge of risk factors associated with ADHD may reduce its prevalence and its severe impact on patient’s quality of life. The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with ADHD and to discuss their involvement in the genesis of the disorder.

Methods

This is a case-control study involving a first group of 74 children (mean age = 9 years) diagnosed with ADHD. The second group included 80 healthy control children. They were randomly selected and matched for age and gender. A literature-based questionnaire assessing the socio-demographic data, biological and environmental factors associated with ADHD was administered to the parents. The diagnosis of ADHD group was made by a trained child psychiatrist according to the DSM-5 criteria supplemented by the Conners scales of parents and teachers. For the control group, we added to the questionnaire the MINI-kid section of ADHD to screen for possible presence of ADHD symptoms. Univariate then multivariate analyses were conducted to identify factors associated with ADHD.

Results

Several factors were more prevalent in children with ADHD than in controls: disturbed family dynamics, low socio-economic status, family history of psychiatric and organic pathologies, and particularly several early environmental factors, including passive smoking during pregnancy, prematurity, fetal distress, caesarean delivery and low birth weight. In the early childhood period, early exposure to television was also strongly associated with ADHD. However, the multivariate model conducted to determine the variables independently associated with ADD/ADHD revealed only three determining factors: passive smoking during pregnancy (OR = 4.60 [2.14, 9.94]; p < 0.001), acute fetal distress (OR = 5.08 [1.47, 17.52]; p = 0.01), and familial psychiatric history (OR = 9.37 [2.46, 35.59]; p = 0.001).

Discussion

The recognition of factors involved in the genesis of ADHD within different ethnic populations may help understanding and broaden our knowledge of this disorder to develop targeted strategies for prevention and early intervention. Further participants with more robust statistical output are required to confirm our findings to a more generalized population.
Exploring safety at mass gathering events through the lens of three different stakeholders
Authors: Hutton Alison , Robertson Martin , Ranse Jamie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The work here reviews the role of those with responsibility in managing people and their safety at Mass Gathering Events (MGE); event managers, police, and medical personnel. This paper comes at a time when there is an acute need for appropriate application of psychosocial understanding and biophysical knowledge for the safe management of the social environment of MGE, and the broader community. Safety has become increasingly significant in the vocabulary of researchers, managers, funding agencies and public bodies involved in the provision of mass gathering events.

Method

Focus groups were used to gain insight into MGE safety through the lens of three different groups. Through prioritising safety at mass gathering events, organisers enhance the quality of the event, protect individual and promote the long-term success of the event. Questions were centred on their understanding of safety at events, based on their experiences in MGEs.

Results

Participants in this study identified many risks to event safety, including lack of risk assessment, communication, lack of ownership of risk and poor planning. Even though these risks were similar, each participant group identified their own perspective with their own ways of managing them.

Discussion

The work proposes that all event stakeholders should focus on the interests of both the audience and the broader event community, with the goal of working together to foster a safe, supportive, and trusting environment. Building trust in the context of mass gathering events brings forward an opportunity for new orientation strategies. A framework for developing personal skills and community resilience for mass gathering events is shown.
Superfoods: exploring sustainability perspectives between nutrient synthesizers and accumulators
Authors: Santunione G. , Montevecchi G.
Published: February 2025

“Superfoods” is a marketing term used to describe nutrient-dense foods claimed to have health benefits due to their high concentrations of essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other bioactive compounds. Recently, the need for healthy diets has led to increased demand for these functional foods, which have become popular among middle- and high-income groups in developed regions of the earth. Superfoods can represent a smart way to improve diets, particularly in relation to diet-related issues. However, the superfood production system, as well as the broader food production system, must be reconsidered to avoid overexploitation of soil, workers, and natural resources. This perspective explores sustainability of “superfoods” by proposing a new classification system, dividing them into “synthesizers” and “accumulators” based on their origin. The aim is to provide a framework for identifying and promoting superfoods that align with environmental and social sustainability goals, helping guide both consumers and producers toward more responsible choices in food systems. Analyzing the sources and characteristics of the main compounds found in superfoods reveals that most of them come from plants or bacteria, rather than animal origins. Since animal-based food production is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions in the agro-food sector and a major driver of deforestation and water use, it is advisable to focus on plant organisms as the primary and direct sources of beneficial compounds. Nevertheless, great attention must be paid to vegetable crops that imply an overexploitation of soil and water and induce the degradation of entire ecosystems.
Microbial partner (MiPner) analysis
Authors: Bennetzen Jeffrey L. , Fernandez-Canela Josue , Elmgreen Vienna , McCann Shaugnessy R. , Norris Mary E. , Deng Xiangyu , Brailey-Crane Philip
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Although a few bacteria have been studied in great depth, relatively little is known about the characteristics of microbe-microbe interactions that occur within ecosystems on a daily basis. A simple, robust technique was developed to set up the foundation for investigating pairwise bacterial-bacterial interactions, using cell-cell binding as a self-selective mechanism to identify interesting bacterial species pairs.

Methods

Using a Serratia marcescens strain (SMC43) isolated from Georgia soil as a “bait”, specific bacteria were purified by their specificity in binding SMC43 bacteria that were themselves attached to a wooden applicator stick.

Results

The isolated Microbial Partners (MiPners) were greatly enriched for members of the genera Sphingobium and Caulobacter. Two streaked MiPners were unable to grow on the plates employed after separation from SMC43to be separated from, and grow on the plate type tested without, SMC43.

Discussion

This suggests that the MiPner technology will be one strategy for purifying bacteria that were previously recalcitrant to culturing.
Pressure-driven polymeric membrane performance prediction, new membrane dimensionless number, and considerations for effective membrane design, selection, testing, and operation
Authors: Anim-Mensah Alexander R.
Published: February 2025

The demand for polymeric membranes in industries such as fine chemicals, petroleum, and pharmaceuticals underscores the need to optimize organic separation systems. This involves enhancing performance, longevity, and cost-efficiency while tackling chemical and mechanical instabilities. A model is here developed which relates membrane performance, indicated by the permeate solute concentration (Cpi) of species i, to the real-time compressive Young’s modulus (E) during compaction with permeation under a transmembrane pressure (ΔP) or compressive stress. Lower Cpi values indicate better performance. The model integrates solvent densities (ρi), solubility parameters of the membrane (δM), solute (δSo), solvent (δSv), and the extent of membrane constraint (ϕ). It also considers membrane swelling (Ls) and compaction (Lc) with the associated Poisson ratio (γ), providing a comprehensive framework for predicting membrane performance. A key feature is the dimensionless parameter β, defined as ln (Ls/Lc), which describes different operational regimes (β < 1, β = 1, β > 1). This parameter connects membrane affinity characteristics with mechanical properties. The model’s capabilities were demonstrated using three organic separation systems (A, B, and C) which separated isoleucine from DMF, methanol, and hexane solutions, respectively, using nanofiltration (NF) membranes with low, medium, and high E values. The transmembrane pressure ranged from 0.069 to 5.52 MPa (10–800 psi) for β < 1. The performance results indicate that the trend of System B (medium E) > System A (low E) > System C (high E), correlating to decreasing solvent–solute interactions (ΔδSoSv) and compaction levels. Moderate compaction, resulting in moderate membrane resistance and densification, proved beneficial. Cpi–β plots revealed three distinct slopes, corresponding to elastic deformation, plastic deformation, and the densification of membrane polymers, thus guiding optimal ΔP ranges for operation. This model paves the way for advancing polymeric pressure-driven membrane research and offers new insights into membrane selection, testing, design, and operation.
Resources for oral health in Africa
Authors: Foláyan Moréniké Oluwátóyìn , Bhayat Ahmed , Mikhail Sara S. , Ndembi Nicaise , El Tantawi Maha
Published: February 2025

Oral health in Africa is often overlooked despite its substantial impact on overall health and well-being. Currently, Africa has a very high prevalence of dental diseases, including untreated dental caries in permanent teeth, severe periodontal disease and oral cancer. Dental human resources are also very low, with dentists ranging from 1.77 to 0.03 per 10,000 population across the continent. The number of technicians also varies across the continent from 0.17 to.0.1 per 10,000 population. Southern Africa has the highest median dental assistants and therapists per 10,000 population ratio (0.2), whereas Northern Africa has no dental assistants or therapists. In addition, limited infrastructure and funding have resulted in significant oral health disparities, leaving large portions of the population without adequate access to oral health services. Only 57% of African countries have developed an oral health policy that sets targets and implementation strategies. African countries have also been shown to spend a fraction of their health budget on oral health care, albeit that dentistry is one of the most expensive medical services. Addressing these gaps requires addressing the oral health workforce needs, facilitating the development of oral health policies built on context-specific evidence, and guiding practice and policy. In addition, partnerships are needed to support innovation, sustainability and monitoring of the instituted oral health programs.
The sustainability of China's silk trade: analysis of growth effect and the influencing factors
Authors: Lu Feifei , An Minchen , Liang Qiao
Published: February 2025

Silk and silk products have become one of the world's most vital traded commodities and China is the world's largest producer and exporter of silk products. This study uses statistical data on silk products trade of twenty-nine countries, who are main partners of China's silk trade. The data are mainly from the UN Comtrade database for the years 2002–2022. Utilizing the Constant Market Share (CMS) model, it analyzes the current status of China's silk product export trade. The study decomposes the factors influencing the export growth of silk products between China and other countries. The results indicate that from 2002 to 2022, China's export growth of silk products to other countries was mainly driven by increased export competitiveness. Specifically, silk and satin products and natural silk products have strong export competitiveness, while secondary silk products constrain export growth. In comparison, the dominant factor driving other countries' silk products export to China was the increasing demand in the Chinese market. Market fluctuations caused by the economic crisis and the epidemic have had an impact on the export value of natural silk products and silk and satin products, while secondary silk products, which have the highest value-added, have shown strong competitiveness.
Culture-independent detection of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA using targeted next generation sequencing in African buffalo (Syncerus caffer) oronasal swabs in South Africa
Authors: Mhlophe Sinegugu Kholeka , Clarke Charlene , Ghielmetti Giovanni , Matthews Megan , Kerr Tanya Jane , Miller Michele Ann , Goosen Wynand Johan
Published: February 2025

African buffaloes (Syncerus caffer) are wildlife maintenance hosts of Mycobacterium bovis (M. bovis), the causative agent of animal tuberculosis (aTB) in multiple ecosystems across South Africa. In addition to their role as keystone species, these animals are vital to South Africa’s economy as a highly valuable species. Controlling aTB in South Africa relies on mycobacterial culture as the gold standard for M. bovis confirmation, with the single intradermal comparative cervical test (SICCT) and Bovigam™ assays as validated cell-mediated immunological assays for detection. However, these methods are not without their shortfalls, with a suboptimal ability to discern true positive results amidst certain non-tuberculous mycobacteria (NTM) interference. This study employed a culture-independent approach using oronasal swabs collected from African buffaloes (n = 19), originating from three herds with no recorded history of M. bovis infection, to elucidate the possible cause of observed discordant immunological aTB test results. The DNA was extracted directly from the oronasal swabs, amplified using Mycobacterium genus-specific PCRs, then amplicons were pooled and sequenced using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) long-read platform. Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex DNA, along with various NTM species, were identified in 8/19 samples. The methods described support a more robust interrogation of the buffalo oronasal mycobacteriome. These findings highlight the value of accurately distinguishing between mycobacterial species in complex samples, especially in high-value animals, to facilitate accurate interpretation of immunological test results and management of aTB.
Prevalence of Japanese encephalitis in pigs in Mainland China during 2000–2024: a systemic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Liu Xue-Tong , Jiang Li-Dong , Lin Yu-Ting , Zhao Ran , Wang Qi , Zhang Shu-Ying , Ata Emad Beshir , Liu Xin , Wang Yuan , Liu Zi-Xuan , Xu Cui , Xiao Ying , Wang Yi-Fan , Leng Xue , Gong Qing-Long , Du Rui
Published: February 2025

Background

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is an acute viral disease transmitted mainly by mosquitoes, primarily affecting Southeast Asia, and the Western Pacific. This study aimed to analyze the factors contributing to JE occurrence in pigs across China.

Methods

A systematic search was done using six databases for the published epidemiological studies on porcine JE, including the Chinese Web of Knowledge (CNKI), Wan Fang Database, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, VIP Chinese Journal Database, and PubMed.

Results

A meta-analysis of 31 studies from 2000 to 2024 found an overall prevalence of 35.2% (95% CI: 25.1–46.1). The highest prevalence occurred between 2010 and 2015 at 53.4% (95% CI: 44.2–80.6), from 2010 to 2015, increased precipitation and favorable annual temperatures led to the proliferation of mosquitoes, causing Japanese Encephalitis outbreaks among swine. While the lowest was 2.5% (95% CI: 0.2–6.6) in temperate climates. Serum samples showed the highest prevalence 38.1% (95% CI: 27.9–48.9), and ELISA testing had a higher detection rate 38.2% (95% CI: 24.5–52.9). In the farming mode subgroup, the highest prevalence was observed in the large-scale farming mode at 40.9% (95% CI: 26.4–66.3).

Conclusion

The study highlights the spread of JE across China and suggests that it may be underrecognized in some areas. Continuous monitoring and improvements in farming practices are essential for controlling the disease.
Community Use and Perceptions of Climate Shelters in Schoolyards in Barcelona
Authors: Sanz-Mas Marta , Continente Xavier , Marí-Dell’Olmo Marc , López María José
Published: February 2025

Objectives

This study explores the use and perceptions of thermal comfort and wellbeing among the local community in the schoolyards in Barcelona that had been transformed into accessible climate shelters.

Methods

We conducted a qualitative evaluation through a spontaneous ethnographic approach, combining 22 non-participant observations in the 11 transformed schoolyards with brief spontaneous interviews with 76 users and 18 caretakers who supervised the schoolyards during non-school days (June–July 2022). We conducted a thematic content analysis. We analyzed user characteristics, thermal comfort and wellbeing, activities and differences by age and gender, social behavior, additional benefits, and areas for improvement.

Results

Adapted schoolyards were mostly visited by families and groups of adolescents with a higher proportion of boys. Participants reported that shade provided coolness and comfort, vegetation offered pleasant and naturalized environments, and water features were enjoyed for their cooling capacity and play opportunities. Schoolyards were mainly used as places for outdoor recreation and socialization.

Conclusion

This study provides policymakers with evidence to support the transformation of schoolyards into climate shelters, creating comfortable outdoor recreational areas for the surrounding urban community.
Advancing Real-Estate Forecasting: A Novel Approach Using Kolmogorov–Arnold Networks
Authors: Viktoratos Iosif , Tsadiras Athanasios
Published: February 2025

Accurately estimating house values is a critical challenge for real-estate stakeholders, including homeowners, buyers, sellers, agents, and policymakers. This study introduces a novel approach to this problem using Kolmogorov–Arnold networks (KANs), a type of neural network based on the Kolmogorov–Arnold theorem. The proposed KAN model was tested on two datasets and demonstrated superior performance compared to existing state-of-the-art methods for predicting house prices. By delivering more precise price forecasts, the model supports improved decision-making for real-estate stakeholders. Additionally, the results highlight the broader potential of KANs for addressing complex prediction tasks in data science. This study aims to provide an innovative and effective solution for accurate house price estimation, offering significant benefits for the real-estate industry and beyond.
Integrating Strain Gauge Feedback with Adaptive Sliding Mode Motion Control for Piezoelectric Nanopositioning Stage
Authors: Zeng Xianfeng , Nan Feng , Li Tengfei , Mo Changchao , Su Jiaqiu , Wei Kaihong , Zhang Xiaozhi
Published: February 2025

This paper presents an adaptive sliding mode control (ASMC) scheme based on strain gauge position feedback for compensating for motion errors in a piezoelectric nanopositioning stages and ensures precise and reliable motion tracking control. The innovation of this scheme lies in calibrating the relationship between the feedback voltage of the strain gauge and the actual stage displacement. Thus, the calibrated feedback displacement is directly used as the position feedback signal for the ASMC scheme. Adaptive rules are employed to adjust the control gains, thereby eliminating the requirement to determine the upper bound of the disturbance. The stability of the ASMC strategy is theoretically proven within the Lyapunov framework. Comparative experiments under external disturbances have confirmed the superiority of the proposed control scheme. Results demonstrate that the proposed control scheme exhibits superior robust tracking performance compared to the traditional sliding mode control (SMC) scheme.
Surrogate Model for Lunar Sampling Based on Bayesian Neural Network and Active Learning to Enhance Coring Efficiency
Authors: Li Shuang , Yuan Zihao , Du Tao , Hao Renxu , Zhao Haifeng , Wang Ke
Published: February 2025

Drilling parameters are intricately linked to the mechanical interactions between the drilling device and lunar regolith, significantly affecting sampling characteristics. Achieving high coring efficiency requires a deep understanding of how these parameters influence the coring rate. While experiments can characterize coring performance, they are time-consuming and costly due to the need for numerous repetitive tests. To address this, this paper integrates experiments with machine learning to develop a surrogate model that replaces experimental results, allowing for extrapolation and interpolation to analyze the sensitivities of drilling parameters. Specifically, Taguchi orthogonal experiments are designed to gather a representative sample set, and a Bayesian neural network (BNN) is employed to create a predictive model which can quantify uncertainty. Active learning is then applied to focus additional sampling on uncertain regions, refining the model iteratively to achieve an accurate approximation of experimental results. This approach reduces the number of experiments needed to develop a high-fidelity surrogate model. Validation results demonstrate strong extrapolation accuracy and generalization, with an R2 of 0.89 and a MAPE of 5.74% on the independent test set. Based on this model, this paper analyzes the influence of drilling parameters on sampling performance, providing insights for optimizing drilling parameters to maximize coring efficiency.
Comparative Analysis of Vibration Impact on Operator Safety for Diesel and Electric Agricultural Tractors
Authors: Oncescu Teofil-Alin , Persu Ioan Catalin , Bostina Stefan , Biris Sorin Stefan , Vilceleanu Marius-Valentin , Nenciu Florin , Matache Mihai-Gabriel , Tarnita Daniela
Published: February 2025

The present paper investigates the comparative impact of vibrations on operator safety for two diesel and electric agricultural tractors under real operating conditions. Vibrations were measured using four triaxial accelerometers installed at critical points, including the seat base, backrest, floor, and operator’s head. Tests were conducted on two comparable tractor models, a diesel New Holland TCE 50 and an electric prototype TE-0, across four types of terrains (concrete, grass, uneven agricultural road, and plowed land) and at two working speeds (5 km/h and 10 km/h). The root mean square (RMS) accelerations, seat-to-head transmissibility, and isolation efficiency were calculated in compliance with ISO 2631 standards to evaluate the effects on operator health and comfort. The results showed superior vibration isolation efficiency for the electric tractor, particularly within the critical frequency range of 4–12 Hz, where human health risks are most significant and a better isolation efficiency of 98%, significantly reducing operator exposure to harmful vibrations. These findings highlight the potential of electric tractors to improve operator comfort, safety, and long-term health in agricultural applications.
Classification of Garden Chrysanthemum Flowering Period Using Digital Imagery from Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)
Authors: Zhang Jiuyuan , Lu Jingshan , Qi Qimo , Sun Mingxiu , Zheng Gangjun , Zhang Qiuyan , Chen Fadi , Chen Sumei , Zhang Fei , Fang Weimin , Guan Zhiyong
Published: February 2025

Monitoring the flowering period is essential for evaluating garden chrysanthemum cultivars and their landscaping use. However, traditional field observation methods are labor-intensive. This study proposes a classification method based on color information from canopy digital images. In this study, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) with a red-green-blue (RGB) sensor was utilized to capture orthophotos of garden chrysanthemums. A mask region-convolutional neural network (Mask R-CNN) was employed to remove field backgrounds and categorize growth stages into vegetative, bud, and flowering periods. Images were then converted to the hue-saturation-value (HSV) color space to calculate eight color indices: R_ratio, Y_ratio, G_ratio, Pink_ratio, Purple_ratio, W_ratio, D_ratio, and Fsum_ratio, representing various color proportions. A color ratio decision tree and random forest model were developed to further subdivide the flowering period into initial, peak, and late periods. The results showed that the random forest model performed better with F1-scores of 0.9040 and 0.8697 on two validation datasets, requiring less manual involvement. This method provides a rapid and detailed assessment of flowering periods, aiding in the evaluation of new chrysanthemum cultivars.
Taxonomic Identification, Complete Genome Sequencing, and In Silico Genome Mining of the Actinobacterium Lentzea sp. JNUCC 0626 Isolated from Jeju Gotjawal
Authors: Hyun Kyung-A , Boo Kyung-Hwan , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: February 2025

In our previous study, Lentzea sp. JNUCC 0626 was isolated from Hwasun Gotjawal on Jeju Island, and its melanogenic effects were confirmed in B16F10 melanoma cells through the identification of 1-acetyl-β-carboline. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive taxonomic characterization of Lentzea sp. JNUCC 0626, including enzymatic activities, carbohydrate metabolism, growth conditions, and cellular composition. Major fatty acids identified were iso-C16:0, iso-C15:0, and C15:0 anteiso, with polar lipids such as diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, and several unidentified lipids. Ubiquinone Q-9 was determined as the predominant respiratory quinone. Enzymatic activity analysis (API ZYM) showed alkaline phosphatase, esterase (C4), esterase lipase (C8), and leucine arylamidase activities, while carbohydrate metabolism analysis (API 50CHB) indicated acid production from esculin alone. Complete genome sequencing revealed a 10,602,950 bp linear chromosome and a 177,940 bp plasmid. This plasmid encodes essential plasmid-related genes, including a Type IV secretion system and ParA proteins critical for plasmid transfer and stability. These findings suggest that the plasmid in Lentzea sp. JNUCC 0626 could be utilized for developing host–vector systems to facilitate the combinatorial biosynthesis of novel bioactive compounds. Comparative genomic analysis identified Lentzea pudingi CGMCC 4.7319 as the closest relative, but significant genetic divergence (dDDH 46.7%, ANI 88.02%) strongly supports the classification of Lentzea sp. JNUCC 0626 as a novel species. AntiSMASH analysis revealed 34 biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs), highlighting the strain’s capacity to produce diverse bioactive compounds. Finally, the JNUCC 0626 extract exhibited concentration-dependent NO inhibition in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells, demonstrating significant anti-inflammatory activity. This suggests that the secondary metabolites inferred from genomic analysis may contribute to these observed bioactivities.
Comparative Analysis of Health, Inflammatory Markers, and Rumen Microbiota Between Mildly Lame and Healthy Cows
Authors: Wang Shuo , Li Yushan , Wang Runyu , Liu Jingjing , Li Shengli , Wang Erdan
Published: February 2025

Bovine lameness leads to significant economic losses in the dairy industry. This study investigated the relationship between rumen microbiota and lameness in Holstein cows. Rumen fluid and blood samples were collected from 11 cows with mild lameness and 10 healthy cows before morning feeding. Using high-throughput sequencing and ELISA kits, we found that cows with lameness exhibited decreased rumen pH and increased lameness scores compared to healthy cows. Additionally, cows with lameness had higher blood concentrations of LPS, IL-1, IL-8, and TNF-α. Although there were no significant differences in microbial alpha diversity, principal coordinate analysis (PCoA) revealed significant differences in the rumen microbial structure between the two groups. Further analysis showed that the relative abundances of ruminal Clostridium_IV, Streptococcus, Bacillus, Acinetobacter, Desulfobulbus, Methanobrevibacter, and Mogibacterium were significantly higher in the lameness group, whereas Succinivibrio, Lachnobacterium, Elusimicrobium, Succiniclasticum, and Prevotella were significantly more abundant in the rumen of healthy cows. Importantly, the microbial interaction network in the rumen of cows with lameness was more complex, with key bacteria such as Mogibacterium dominating the microbial interaction network. This study highlights the relationship between rumen microbiota and lameness, providing insights into the prevention and treatment of bovine lameness.
Effects of Heat Shock Protein 70 Gene Polymorphism on Heat Resistance in Beef and Dairy Calves Based on Proliferation and Heat Shock Protein 70 Gene Expression in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells and Hair Follicles
Authors: Kim Won Seob , Jo Yong Ho , Nejad Jalil Ghassemi , Lee Hong Gu
Published: February 2025

The study objectives were to investigate the heat resistance using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and hair follicles in beef and dairy calves based on heat shock protein (HSP) 70 genetic polymorphisms. The hair follicle samples from sixty calves (6 months old; 30 Korean native beef calves and 30 Holstein dairy calves) were collected for DNA extraction. The HSP70 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) was genotyped using a 5′-exonuclease activity (TaqMan) assay. In Study 1, PBMCs were isolated from 20 calves categorized by their HSP70 genotypes during a thermoneutral period: 10 Korean native beef calves (B-CC and B-C/-type) and 10 Holstein dairy calves (D-CC, D-C/-type). The PBMCs were then exposed to heat stress at 37 °C (control, CON) and 42 °C (heat stress, HS) for 3 h. Following this, the cells were returned to the 37 °C incubator at 0, 1, 3, 6, and 12 h for further recovery analysis. In Study 2, hair follicles were collected from 20 calves (six times every 30 days; threshold, mild, and moderate stress levels) and HSP70 gene expression was measured. Data were analyzed via two-way analysis of variance (ANOVA) and Tukey’s honestly significant difference (HSD) test. The cell proliferation in the D-C/-group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in the D-CC and B-C/-groups at 0 and 1 h after HS for 3 h. The mRNA gene expression of HSP70 was greater (p < 0.01) in all HS groups compared to the CON groups after heat exposure. The expression of the HSP70 gene in the D-C/-group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the B-CC and B-C/-groups immediately (0 h) following 3 h of HS. The expression in the D-CC group also higher (p < 0.05) than in the B-C/-group. The gene expression of HSP70 in hair follicles increased more at the moderate HS level than that at the threshold level. In addition, overexpression of HSP70 was noted (p < 0.05) in the D-CC and D-C/-groups compared to the B-CC and B-C/-groups. In conclusion, our results indicate that breeds and HSP70 genetic polymorphisms exhibit a distinctive pattern of immune cell proliferation and HSP70 expression profiles. Additionally, the HSP70 gene expression in hair follicles may serve as an indicator of heat resistance across different breeds, making it a potential novel barometer for HS.
In Vitro Investigation of the Effects of Bacillus subtilis-810B and Bacillus licheniformis-809A on the Rumen Fermentation and Microbiota
Authors: Gresse Raphaële , Cappellozza Bruno Ieda , Macheboeuf Didier , Torrent Angélique , Danon Jeanne , Capern Lena , Sandvang Dorthe , Niderkorn Vincent , Copani Giuseppe , Forano Evelyne
Published: February 2025

Direct-fed microbials (DFMs) have shown the potential to improve livestock performance and overall health. Extensive research has been conducted to identify new DFMs and understand their mechanisms of action in the gut. Bacillus species are multifunctional spore-forming bacteria that exhibit resilience to harsh conditions, making them ideal candidates for applications in the feed industry and livestock production. This study investigates the mode of action of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis in the rumen using diverse in vitro techniques. Our results revealed that both strains germinated and grew in sterile rumen and intestinal contents from dairy cows and bulls. Gas composition analysis of in vitro cultures in a medium containing 40% rumen fluid demonstrated that germination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis strains reduced oxygen levels, promoting an anaerobic environment favorable to rumen microbes. Enzymatic activity assays showed that B. licheniformis released sugars from complex substrates and purified polysaccharides in filtered rumen content. Additionally, the combination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis survived and grew in the presence of a commercial monensin dose in rumen fluid media. The effects of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis on rumen fermentation activity and microbiota were studied using an in vitro batch fermentation assay. In fermenters that received a combination of B. licheniformis and B. subtilis, less CO2 was produced while dry matter degradation and CH4 production was comparable to the control condition, indicating better efficiency of dry matter utilization by the microbiota. The investigation of microbiota composition between supplemented and control fermenters showed no significant effect on alpha and beta diversity. However, the differential analysis highlighted changes in several taxa between the two conditions. Altogether, our data suggests that the administration of these strains of Bacillus could have a beneficial impact on rumen function, and consequently, on health and performance of ruminants.
Analysis of the Sugarcane Biomass Use to Produce Green Hydrogen: Brazilian Case Study
Authors: Romeu da Silva Gustavo Henrique , Nascimento Andreas , Nascimento Diego , Hunt Julian David , Mathias Mauro Hugo
Published: February 2025

Conventional hydrogen production processes, which often involve fossil raw materials, emit significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. This study critically evaluates the feasibility of using sugarcane biomass as an energy source to produce green hydrogen. In the 2023/2024 harvest, Brazil, the world’s largest sugarcane producer, processed approximately 713.2 million metric tons of sugarcane. This yielded 45.68 million metric tons of sugar and 29.69 billion liters of first-generation ethanol, equivalent to approximately 0.0416 liters of ethanol per kilogram of sugarcane. A systematic literature review was conducted using Scopus and Clarivate Analytics Web of Science, resulting in the assessment of 335 articles. The study has identified seven potential biohydrogen production methods, including two direct approaches from second-generation ethanol and five from integrated bioenergy systems. Experimental data indicate that second-generation ethanol can yield 594 MJ per metric ton of biomass, with additional energy recovery from lignin combustion (1705 MJ per metric ton). Moreover, advances in electrocatalytic reforming and plasma-driven hydrogen production have demonstrated high conversion efficiencies, addressing key technical barriers. The results highlight Brazil’s strategic potential to integrate biohydrogen production within its existing bioenergy infrastructure. By leveraging sugarcane biomass for green hydrogen, the country can contribute significantly to the global transition to sustainable energy while enhancing its energy security.
Predefined-Time Three-Dimensional Trajectory Tracking Control for Underactuated Autonomous Underwater Vehicles
Authors: Wen Jinzhong , Zhang Jing , Yu Guoyan
Published: February 2025

This paper addresses the three-dimensional trajectory tracking problem of underactuated autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) operating in the presence of external disturbances and unmodeled dynamics by proposing a predefined-time adaptive control scheme. Firstly, the underactuated AUV system was decoupled into drive and non-drive subsystems to facilitate the design of a controller that does not rely on specific model parameters. Radial basis function neural networks (RBFNNs) were employed to estimate the external disturbances. To enhance tracking performance, a predefined-time adaptive control law was designed to ensure that tracking errors converged to a small neighborhood around the origin within the predefined time. The adaptive control law compensated for the unmodeled components. Finally, we used theoretical proofs and simulations to show that our method is effective and superior.
Effects of Varying Caffeine Dosages and Consumption Timings on Cerebral Vascular and Cognitive Functions: A Diagnostic Ultrasound Study
Authors: Choi Min-Ki , Ahn Hee-Seul , Kim Da-Eun , Lee Da-Seul , Park Chan-Sol , Kang Chang-Ki
Published: February 2025

Caffeine is consumed owing to its stimulatory effects; however, its excessive intake triggers adverse effects. Herein, we analyzed changes in physiological cerebrovascular and cognitive functions following the consumption of 100 and 200 mg of caffeine in healthy adults after 0/30/60 min to ascertain appropriate caffeine consumption habits. The peak systolic velocity (PSV), pulse wave velocity (PWV), and common carotid artery (CCA) diameter were measured using diagnostic ultrasound. Cognitive function was evaluated using the accuracy rate and response time on the two-back task. Percutaneous oxygen saturation (SpO2) and heart rate (HR) were assessed using patient monitoring systems. After consuming 100 mg of caffeine, systolic blood pressure (SBP) increased (p > 0.05) and SpO2 and accuracy rate improved by 30 min (p = 0.018 and p = 0.356) but declined by 60 min (p = 0.924 and p = 0.055). HR and response time continuously decreased (p = 0.209 and p = 0.061, respectively), while PWV showed no change (p > 0.05). After consuming 200 mg of caffeine, SBP (p < 0.05), diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.004 and p = 0.820), and SpO2 (p = 0.002 and p = 0.666) increased significantly, while the accuracy rate (p = 0.634 and p = 0.055, respectively) and response time (p < 0.05) decreased. PWV remained unchanged (p > 0.05). The results revealed distinct dose-dependent patterns on physiological and cognitive changes, with SBP and SpO2 exhibiting greater changes when a higher dose was consumed in a short duration. Although moderate caffeine intake may support vascular health and cognitive function, excessive intake reduces blood flow, alters vascular elasticity, and impairs cognitive activation. These findings highlight the need for guidelines to ensure safe and effective caffeine consumption.
Analysis of Strata Deformation Patterns Induced by Vertical Shaft Sinking Machine Based on Soil Deformation Zoning: A Case Study of the Zhuyuan Bailonggang Sewage Connecting Pipe Project in Shanghai, China
Authors: Lu Ping , Chen Fang , Nie Dongqing , Han Jiangang
Published: February 2025

Field measurements with the Plaxis3D 24.1 software were performed on the 17# shaft of the Shanghai Zhuyuan Bailonggang sewage connecting the pipe project to analyze the ground deformation patterns during VSM (vertical shaft sinking machine) construction in soft soil areas. The results indicate that both the shaft sinking process and construction pauses at the pit bottom significantly exacerbate soil deformation. Compared with horizontal displacement, the measured settlement is more sensitive to excavation depth. The calculations revealed that significant pit bottom heave occurs when the excavation depth reaches 40% to 70% of the maximum excavation depth (Hm). Moreover, the heave pattern transitions from a single-peak “convex” shape to a double-peak “concave” shape during the sinking process. On the basis of the deformation of the soil outside the shaft after the completion of sinking, the vertical deformation zones are classified into a groove-shaped settlement zone, heave influence zone, and heave zone. Similarly, the horizontal deformation zones are categorized as an arch-shaped deformation zone, transition deformation zone, and cantilever bending zone. For regions where the sinking depth reaches 40% to 90% of Hm, the excavation disturbance should be further minimized, and overexcavation must be strictly avoided. In areas where the horizontal distance (L) from the shaft is less than 0.3 times Hm, environmental monitoring points should be appropriately densified to optimize the fine control of deformation in the surrounding region.
An Additively Manufactured Fe-3Si Stator for a High-Performance Electrical Motor
Authors: Lamichhane Tej N. , Wang Haobo , Chinnasamy Chins , Sethuraman Latha , List Fred A. , Nandwana Peeyush , Yan Jiaqiang , Gai Zheng , Paranthaman Mariappan Parans
Published: February 2025

Additive manufacturing (AM) has the potential to produce novel high-performance electrical machines, enabling the direct printing of complex shapes and the simultaneous processing of multiple feedstocks in a single build. We examined the properties and functional performance of Fe-3 wt.% Si materials that were printed via selective laser melting, machined down to thin laminates, and stacked to form a stator core of a prototype brushless permanent-magnet electrical motor. Big Area Additive Manufacturing of Nd2Fe14B (NdFeB)–polyphenylene sulfide (PPS) bonded magnets was performed, with them then being magnetized and used for the rotor. The magnetic, mechanical, and electrical properties of the as-printed and various heat-treated thin laminates and the back electromotive force (EMF) of the electrical motors at different rotational speeds were measured. The thin laminates exhibit a maximum relative permeability of 7494 at an applied field of 0.8 Oe and a core loss of about 20 W/lb at 60 Hz with the maximum induction of 15 kg. In addition to the demonstration of AM printing, motor assembly, and complete characterization of printed Fe-3 wt.% Si, this report highlights the areas of improvement needed in printing technologies to achieve AM built electrical motors and the need for isotropic microstructure refinements to make the laminates appropriate for high-mechanical-strength and low-loss rotational electrical devices.