bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association of Statin Therapy with Functional Outcomes and Survival in Intracerebral and Subarachnoid Hemorrhage
Authors: Srichawla Bahadar S. , Gopal Daksha , Moonis Majaz
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) and subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) are severe forms of stroke with high morbidity and mortality rates. HMG-CoA reductase inhibitors, commonly referred to as statins, known for their lipid-lowering abilities, also possess pleiotropic properties, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects. We aimed to evaluate the impact of statin therapy on the functional outcomes and survival in patients with ICH and SAH. Methods: This retrospective cohort study analyzed data from the Get With The Guidelines (GWTG) stroke registry at a tertiary care center, including patients diagnosed with ICH or SAH between January 2008 and June 2022. Patients were categorized based on prior initiation of statin therapy: no statin, low-intensity statin, or high-intensity statin. The primary outcome was the Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at discharge, dichotomized to good (0–2) and poor (3–6) outcomes. A multivariate logistic regression model controlled for age, gender, and National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) score at admission. Results: A total of 663 patients with ICH and 159 patients with SAH were included in the analysis. In the ICH patients, low-intensity statin therapy was associated with significantly higher odds of a good functional outcome (aOR 2.56, 95% CI 1.247–5.246, p = 0.0104), as was high-intensity statin therapy (aOR 2.445, 95% CI 1.313–4.552, p = 0.0048). Among the SAH patients, all 39 deaths occurred in the no statin therapy group. Conclusions: Both low- and high-intensity statin therapy are associated with improved functional outcomes in ICH and may offer a survival benefit in SAH. These findings highlight the potential neuroprotective role of statins in hemorrhagic stroke. Further prospective studies and randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm these observations and to clarify the optimal use of statins in this patient population.
Vinylation of Alcohols, Thiols, and Nitrogen Compounds Using a Stoichiometric Amount of In Situ Generated Acetylene
Authors: Ledovskaya Maria S. , Voronin Vladimir V. , Reznichenko Anna A. , Reznichenko Ekaterina A.
Published: February 2025

In this work, we developed a highly efficient and versatile environmentally benign methodology for the vinylation of a broad scope of substances, including alcohols, thiols, and nitrogen compounds. The key advantage of the proposed method is the use of calcium carbide as a robust acetylene source in a stoichiometric ratio to the substrates. Lacking the requirement of acetylene excess, the developed protocol is safe, highly economic, and limits waste production. The procedure allows for a large variety of O-,S-,N-vinyl compounds to be synthesized in up to quantitative yields. Our methodology is scalable, allowing us to obtain vinyl derivatives in Gram-scale quantities. We also demonstrated the significant synthetic value of our approach by performing a label-economic synthesis of 13C2-labeled vinyl derivatives using calcium carbide-13C2. In our well-optimized process, the conversion of Ca13C2 reached 89%.
Link Bandwidth and Transmission Capability of Single-Mode Multi-Aperture Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Lasers at 100 G/Lane and 200 G/Lane over Multimode Fibers
Authors: Chen Xin , Ledentsov Nikolay , Hurley Jason E. , Makarov Oleg Yu. , Li Ming-Jun , Ledentsov Nikolay
Published: February 2025

Single-mode (SM) vertical-cavity surface-emitting lasers (VCSELs) have often been demonstrated with an unusually long transmission reach at very high data rates while today’s multimode VCSEL transmission has been limited by the fiber modal bandwidth and bandwidth contributed by the VCSEL–chromatic dispersion interaction under typical encircled flux launch condition. By using the same launch condition for VCSEL and modal bandwidth measurements, we studied the link bandwidth capability of SM multi-aperture (MA) VCSEL transmission. Using a multimode fiber with modal bandwidth under actual launch conditions moderately lower than OM4 threshold, we observed that the link bandwidth, with contributions from both modal bandwidth and laser–chromatic dispersion interaction, is higher than the corresponding modal bandwidths, which is very counter-intuitive. A detailed analysis reveals that the enhanced link bandwidth is contributed by both narrow laser linewidth and favorable laser–chromatic dispersion interaction. Through the study, we demonstrate that OM4 can meet link bandwidth requirements for 200/100 G/lane transmission over 100/200 m using SM MA VCSELs.
The Role of Stone Materials, Environmental Factors, and Management Practices in Vascular Plant-Induced Deterioration: Case Studies from Pompeii, Herculaneum, Paestum, and Velia Archaeological Parks (Italy)
Authors: Cozzolino Alessia , Bonanomi Giuliano , Motti Riccardo
Published: February 2025

The biodeterioration process involves the alteration of stone monuments by living organisms, such as bacteria, algae, fungi, lichens, mosses, ferns, and vascular plants, combined with abiotic factors, resulting in physical and chemical damage to historic buildings. This study aims to investigate the role of the vascular plants affecting four archaeological parks in Campania—Pompeii, Herculaneum, Paestum, and Velia—by analyzing correlations with building materials, exposure, and conservation status. To represent species associations and their coverage percentages at each site, transects of one square meter were employed. The hazard index (HI) was applied to evaluate the impact of the identified biodeteriogens. A total of 117 species were detected across 198 samples collected from the four study sites, with 59 taxa recorded in Pompeii, 56 in Paestum, 41 in Velia, and 36 in Herculaneum. Specifically, Pompeii hosts a predominance of cosmopolitan species (35%) and widely distributed taxa (15%) due to elevated anthropogenic disturbance. Conversely, mediterranean species dominate in Paestum (62%) and Herculaneum (52%), reflecting more stable ecological conditions. Substrate type significantly influences the hazard index, whereas exposure was found to have minimal impact on both the average coverage and the measured hazard index. Future work will focus on developing site-specific conservation strategies that consider substrate properties, vegetation impact, and anthropogenic disturbances to effectively mitigate the biodeterioration risks posed by vascular flora in Italian monumental sites.
Rapid Resistance Detection of Amaranthus retroflexus to Fomesafen via Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP)
Authors: Zhang Zhanzhan , Ban Yaxin , Wei Jianguo , Wu Qun , Dong Liyao , Feng Zhike
Published: February 2025

Amaranthus retroflexus is a highly invasive annual broadleaf weed in soybean fields, significantly reducing soybean yield and quality. Diphenyl ether herbicides, particularly fomesafen, are extensively applied to control A. retroflexus. Fomesafen resistance of A. retroflexus is emerging in Northeast China, and rapid resistance detection is urgent for managing these resistant weeds. An Arg-128-Gly mutation in the ppo2 gene of A. retroflexus has been shown to confer fomesafen resistance. In current study, we developed a rapid detection method based on Kompetitive Allele-Specific PCR (KASP) technology to detect the Arg-128-Gly mutation in the ppo2 gene of A. retroflexus. Initially, we developed this KASP detection method using cDNA as the template; however, the entire process requires significant costs and considerable operational time. To mitigate these expenses and simplify the workflow, we subsequently optimized this KASP rapid detection method by utilizing genomic DNA as the template. This new resistance detection technique directly utilizes A. retroflexus genomic DNA as the template, and, by adding specific labelled primers, probes, and enzymes, it can determine whether the ppo2 gene harbors an Arg-128-Gly mutation, thereby rapidly identifying fomesafen resistance in A. retroflexus. Furthermore, we compared the detection efficiency of the new KASP assay, whole plant dose–response assay, and DNA sequencing, all of which produced consistent outcomes, supporting the accuracy and reliability of the KASP rapid detection method. Collectively, we established a rapid resistance detection method based on KASP technology, which is of high reliability and time-saving, and will significantly advance precise management of resistant weeds.
Identification and Characterization of SQUAMOSA Promoter Binding Protein-like Transcription Factor Family Members in Zanthoxylum bungeanum and Their Expression Profiles in Response to Abiotic Stresses
Authors: Wang Shengshu , Hu Weiming , Zhang Xueli , Liu Yulin , Liu Fen
Published: February 2025

Plant-specific transcription factors known as SQUAMOSA promoter binding protein-like (SPL) genes are essential for development, growth, and abiotic stress responses. While the SPL gene family has been extensively studied in various plant species, a systematic characterization in Zanthoxylum bungeanum (Zb) is lacking. This study used transcriptomic and bioinformatics data to conduct a thorough genomic identification and expression investigation of the ZbSPL gene family. Eight subfamilies including 73 ZbSPL members were identified, most of which are predicted to be localized in the nucleus. Ka/Ks ratio analysis indicates that most ZbSPL genes have undergone purifying selection. According to evolutionary research, segmental duplication is a major factor in the amplification of the ZbSPL gene family. Gene structures, conserved motifs, and domains were found to be highly conserved among paralogs. Cis-element research revealed that ZbSPLs may be implicated in hormone and abiotic stress responses. Codon usage pattern analysis showed that the ZbSPL gene family was more inclined to A/T base endings; the higher the A/T content, the stronger the preference of the codons; and the use pattern was mainly affected by natural selection. Additionally, 36 ZbSPLs were found to be potential targets of miR156. RNA-seq demonstrated that SPL genes in Zb are differentially expressed in response to distinct abiotic stressors. Two ZbSPL genes (ZbSPL10 and ZbSPL17) were implicated in the response to salt stress, while four ZbSPL genes (ZbSPL06, ZbSPL43, ZbSPL60, and ZbSPL61) showed response to drought stress, based on a qRT-PCR investigation of the ZbSPL genes under various abiotic stress conditions. This study will help us gain a deeper understanding of the functions of ZbSPLs and lay a genetic foundation for future breeding of high-quality, highly abiotic resistant varieties of Z. bungeanum.
Interstock-Mediated Graft Incompatibility: Insights into Photosynthetic Pigments, Carbohydrates, Antioxidant Defense Systems, and Hormones Response Mechanisms in Citrus
Authors: Wang Tie , Jin Zhenghua , Yuan Ya , Deng Lijun , Sun Guochao , He Siya , Liao Ling , Wang Jun , Xiong Bo , Wang Zhihui
Published: February 2025

Interstock, located between rootstock and scion, plays a critical role in determining graft compatibility. This study aimed to elucidate the physiological mechanisms mediated by interstock in graft compatibility by comparing various leaf and root system parameters between compatible and incompatible graft combinations. These parameters included growth parameters, photosynthetic pigments, carbohydrates, antioxidant enzyme systems, and hormones. The study found that both PG (‘Yuanxiaochun’/‘Ponkan’/‘Trifoliate orange’) and JJ (‘Yuanxiaochun’/‘Kumquat’/‘Trifoliate orange’) treatments exhibited a noticeable phenomenon of “small feet” (scion diameter exceeding interstock), indicating mild graft incompatibility. Compared to grafted compatibility groups, chlorophyll content in PG and JJ treatments leaves was significantly reduced, particularly in carotenoids (Car). Additionally, PG and JJ treatments leaves showed lower levels of total soluble sugars, fructose, sucrose, gibberellin A4, zeatin-Riboside, and N6-(delta2-isopentenyl) adenosine, as well as catalase (CAT) activity. In contrast, peroxidase (POD) activity, glucose, soluble proteins, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), malondialdehyde (MDA), aminocyclopropane carboxylic acid, and abscisic acid content were higher. In roots, PG and JJ treatments had elevated starch, sucrose, jasmonic acid, and jasmonic acid-isoleucine content, but showed lower levels of total soluble sugars, MDA, indole-3-acetic acid, and abscisic acid. Comprehensive analysis revealed that total soluble sugar content in both leaves and roots under PG and JJ treatments were reduced. These findings offer valuable insights into enhancing citrus grafting practices, particularly by guiding the selection of compatible rootstock-scion combinations. By elucidating the physiological mechanisms underlying graft compatibility, this research enables researchers and growers to refine grafting strategies, thereby improving citrus grafting success rates.
Exploring Sustainable Fertilization Strategies Involving Biochar, Compost, and Inorganic Nitrogen: Impact on Nutrient Uptake, Yield, Phytochemical Accumulation, and Antioxidant Responses in Turnips
Authors: Machado Rui M. A. , Alves-Pereira Isabel , Velez Diogo , Grilo Ana , Veríssimo Isabel , Ferreira Rui
Published: February 2025

The effect of fertilization strategies involving biochar, compost, and inorganic N on growth and phytochemical accumulation in turnips was studied in a greenhouse pot experiment. The experiment was carried out with six fertilizer treatments: unfertilized soil (US), compost (120 g/pot) + biochar (20 g/pot) (C + B), compost (120 g/pot) + 0.5 g N/pot (C + 0.5 N), biochar (20 g/pot) + 0.5 g N/pot (B + 0.5 N), compost (120 g/pot) + biochar (20 g/pot) + 0.5 g N/pot (C + B + 0.5 N), and inorganic fertilization (pre-plant mineral fertilizer + 1 g N/pot (PF + N)). Compost, biochar, and pre-plant mineral fertilizer were incorporated into the top 10 cm of soil, while inorganic N was applied weekly in equal amounts. The application of biochar with C + 0.5 N, compared to C + 0.5 N alone, reduced plant Ca and Mg uptake but did not affect dry biomass production. Using compost + 0.5 N, with or without biochar, proved to be a viable and sustainable strategy, achieving high dry biomass yields similar to inorganic fertilization but with lower inorganic N and no addition of the other inorganic nutrients. The biomass increase was due to enhanced nutrient uptake, resulting from the synergy between compost and the application of a reduced amount of N. The co-applications reduced nitrate levels in both shoots and roots and left the soil more fertile than soil fertilized with inorganic fertilization. Fertilization strategies differently affected the accumulation of ascorbic acid, total phenols, polyphenol oxidase, and proline in roots and shoots. Inorganic fertilization enhanced ascorbic acid and total phenols in shoots, while the combination of compost, biochar, and 0.5 N was more effective in roots, suggesting that fertilization strategies should be tailored to tissue-specific goals.
The Effect of Irrigation and Fertilization Reduction on Yield, Quality, and Resource Use Efficiency of Drip-Fertilized Sugar Beet (Beta vulgaris L.) in Northern China
Authors: Zhang Bowen , Chang Yuxin , Li Guolong , Zhang Shaoying , Zhang Peng , Wang Zhenzhen , Kong Dejuan
Published: February 2025

Sugar beet (Beta vulgaris L.) is a crucial economic crop in northern China. Fertilizer and water waste and environmental contaminations were prevalent during sugar beet cultivation. To enhance sugar beet use efficiency and reduce the amount of water and fertilizer required in cultivation, a three-year experiment was performed. Drip fertilization was employed for irrigation and fertilization. The influence of irrigation reductions (15% and 30%) and fertilization reductions (20% and 10%) on yield, sugar content, and water and fertilizer use efficiency was evaluated. The yield of root and sugar was not significantly impacted by the 10% fertilizer and 15% reduction in irrigation relative to the conventional water and fertilizer supply treatment (CK). The yield was significantly reduced by 20% fertilizer and 30% irrigation reduction. The sugar yield was also reduced by 30% through irrigation reduction treatments. The root sugar content was increased by irrigation and fertilization reduction (except 10% fertilizer reduction treatment). Partial factor productivity (PFP) was significantly increased by fertilization reduction. The irrigation water use efficiency (WUEi) was significantly increased by irrigation reduction. Water use efficiency (WUE) and fertilizer agronomic efficiency (FAE) were increased by a 10% reduction of fertilization treatment relative to CK; the impact on FAE was more significant compared to WUE. The FAE was reduced by an irrigation reduction. The WUE was reduced by 20% through fertilization reduction treatments. The influence of each treatment on PFP, FAE, and WUEi of sugar yield was mirrored in yield, but the range was narrowed. To ensure high production and efficiency while conserving water and fertilizer during sugar beet cultivation within the test area, the optimal irrigation amount was 1041.91 to 1286.27 m3·ha−1and fertilization amount was 394.04 to 408.03 kg·ha−1. This investigation offers irrigation and fertilization parameters for drip fertilization of sugar beet and a theoretical foundation for the crop’s water and fertilizer use.
Influence of Sucrose and Immersion Time on Humulus lupulus L., cv Columbus, Plantlet In Vitro Proliferation and Potentially Bioactive Compound Content
Authors: Gianguzzi Valeria , Leto Leandra , Agosti Anna , Di Fazio Andrea , Marra Francesco Paolo , Cirlini Martina , Chiancone Benedetta
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Traditionally, hop is propagated using rhizome fragments or herbaceous stem cuttings. Micropropagation, therefore, offers a viable alternative for the large-scale production of healthy, genetically uniform plants, regardless of the season and within confined spaces. A temporary immersion system (TIS) facilitates plant propagation by alternating immersions of microcuttings in liquid culture medium with dry periods, preventing gas accumulation through forced ventilation. (2) Methods: In this study, the response of hop plantlets, cv. Columbus, cultured in media with and without sucrose, in solid and liquid culture systems (PlantformTM bioreactor), was evaluated, considering its effect on morpho-physiological parameters, on the total phenolic content, and on antioxidant capacity. Moreover, to make the TIS more efficient, the effect of immersion duration (three and six minutes every twelve hours) was evaluated. (3) Results: The presence of sucrose in the culture medium improved plant proliferation in both culture systems tested: solid and liquid (particularly for explants immersed for three minutes). In the TIS, plantlets with a higher antioxidant capacity were obtained when sucrose-free culture medium was used. (4) Conclusions: This study confirms the efficacy of the TIS as a hop propagation method but also as a valid tool to produce biomass to be used as a source of bioactive compounds.
Development of Smart Material Identification Equipment for Sustainable Recycling in Future Smart Cities
Authors: Manago Gaku , Tanabe Tadao , Okubo Kazuaki , Sasaki Tetsuo , Yu Jeongsoo
Published: February 2025

Waste recycling is critical for the development of smart cities. Local authorities are responsible for the disposal of waste plastics, but the extent of material recycling is insufficient, and much of the waste generated is incinerated. This conflicts with the trend of decarbonisation. Of particular note are the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, during and after which large quantities of waste plastics, such as plastic containers and packaging, were generated. In order to develop a sustainable smart city, we need an effective scheme where we can separate materials before they are taken to the local authorities and recyclers. In other words, if material identification can be performed at the place of disposal, the burden on recyclers can be reduced, and a smart city can be created. In this study, we developed and demonstrated smart material identification equipment for waste plastic materials made of PET, PS, PP, and PE using GaP THz and sub-THz wavelengths. As basic information, we used a GaP terahertz spectrometer to sweep frequencies from 0.5 THz to 7 THz and measure the spectrum, and the transmittance rate was measured using the sub-THz device. The sub-THz device used a specific frequency below 0.14 THz. This is a smaller, more carriable, and less expensive semiconductor electronic device than the GaP. Moreover, the sub-terahertz device used in the development of this equipment is compact, harmless to the human body, and can be used in public environments. As a result, smart equipment was developed and tested in places such as supermarkets, office entrances, and canteens. The identification of materials can facilitate material recycling. In this study, we found that measuring devices designed to identify the PET and PS components of transparent containers and packaging plastics, and the PP and PE components of PET bottle caps, could effectively identify molecular weights, demonstrating new possibilities for waste management and recycling systems in smart cities. With the ability to collect and analyse data, these devices can be powerful tools for pre-sorting.
Research on Curing Reaction Kinetics and Curing Process of Nitrate Ester Plasticized Polyether (NEPE) Propellants
Authors: Wu Yuheng , Guo Zhiming , Yu Hongjian , Fu Xiaolong
Published: February 2025

The casting−curing process is a common technology for manufacturing the Nitrate Ester Plasticized Polyether (NEPE) propellants. The curing process involves a coupled thermal-chemical reaction of the adhesive systems of propellant, which influences the curing stage. Using GID 16 software, a propellant grain curing simulation model was conducted. This study employs a model-fitting method based on non-isothermal DSC experiments to analyze the curing reaction kinetics of propellants. Two methods, Kissinger and Ozawa, were used to determine the activation energy of the curing reaction. The reaction activation energy obtained by the Ozawa method was chosen as the simulation parameter Ea = 59.378 based on the fitting coefficients. The simulation comprehensively onsidered flow, temperature, and curing reaction parameters, achieving multi-field coupling of thermal and curing degree fields during the curing process. The macroscopic temperature variations of the pillars were monitored using thermocouples. The experimental results show that the final curing temperature is stable at about 48.2 °C. At about 21,000 s, the overall temperature of the grain converges. The experimental results were compared with the simulation results, revealing minor discrepancies. Experimental and simulation methods were used to verify the changing law of the temperature field inside the propellant grain. Furthermore, these results have significance for improving the casting−curing industrial process of the composite solid propellant.
Investigation of the Flexural and Charpy Impact Properties of Polymer Composites Reinforced with Tururi (Manicaria saccifera) Fibrous Fabric
Authors: Santos Avener Gleidson Andrade , Nascimento Damares da Cruz Barbosa , Lopes Felipe Perissé Duarte , Simonassi Noan Tonini , Monteiro Sérgio Neves , Silva Alisson Clay Rios da , Candido Verônica Scarpini
Published: February 2025

The search for new natural, sustainable, economical and biodegradable reinforcements for composite materials has increased in recent years, highlighting the importance of fibers from the natural environment. This work evaluates the use of tururi fibrous fabric as a reinforcement in a polymer matrix, using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction, thermogravimetry and scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical and fractographic performance of composites reinforced with 2.5, 5.0 and 7.5% mass fraction of tururi in a polyester matrix is also investigated. The FTIR and XRD results identified groups characteristic of natural fibers and the presence of elemental constituents such as cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin. Thermogravimetry indicated good thermal stability near 246 °C. The morphology of the fibrous fabric is irregular and formed by tangles of threads. The mechanical behavior of the composites in bending revealed a variation in stress with the increase in the percentage of fabric in the matrix, explained by defects and failures due to low interfacial adhesion between the phases. Impact tests indicated that increasing the percentage of fabric in the matrix improves impact energy absorption, reflecting better adhesion and load distribution. Thus, the development of this natural composite is promising for applications in green and sustainable products.
Numerical Study on Force Mechanisms and Eddy Current Effect of Rayleigh–Taylor Instability in the Intrinsic Model of Activated Carbon
Authors: Ye Li , Zhang Qidong , Wang Yizeng , Ye Zhipeng , He Haoran
Published: February 2025

In industrial operations, fluid transport within activated carbon—as one kind of porous media—often involves nonlinear instabilities, notably Rayleigh–Taylor instability (RTI). Herein it has been investigated for the flows in its intrinsic model to analyze the generation of adverse factors in practical applications. By studying the mechanism of force influence, it can explore how porous medium parameters impact RTI dynamics. The results show that horizontal forces dominate RTI’s initial evolution, with porosity influencing peak flow velocity timing delays (0% to 22.39% delay). The varying pore scales, delays peak velocity timing (7.63% to 1.46% delay) during initial stages, converging at later stages. Notably, the vortex line rupture at ε = 0.999 triggers Taylor vortex formation, enhancing velocity by 9.8816 times and promoting bidirectional mass transfer. This study enhances understanding of mass transfer efficiency of catalyst in industrial applications, enabling tailored porous media designs for optimized heat and mass transfer.
Mechanisms of Permeability Alteration via Gel Based on Nuclear Magnetic Resonance
Authors: Zou Bin , Cui Chuanzhi , Zheng Wangang , Zhu Weiyao , Feng Haishun , Chu Wei , Yu Tiantian , Zhang Zhongping
Published: February 2025

DPR refers to the fact that the reduction in the permeability of the water phase is much greater than the reduction in the permeability of the oil phase when a water-based gel seals porous media. In order to clarify the mechanisms of the gel-plugging pore pathway and the principle of the oil phase and water-phase permeability change, gel-plugging core replacement experiments and NMR T2 scanning experiments were conducted in this work. Based on the nuclear NMR T2 spectroscopy, the core blocked with Cr (III)–acetate–HPAM gel is divided into five stages (a plug injection and seal gel-formation stage, an oil-phase repulsion stage, a stopping-gel reabsorption stage, an oil-phase reinjection stage, and a subsequent water-drive stage) for displacement and scanning, and the signal changes of various phases in the displacement process are studied. The principle of an oil-phase permeability increase after Cr (III)–acetate–HPAM gel plugging, and the principle of a disproportionate decrease in water-phase permeability in the subsequent water-flooding stage were finally revealed. According to the results, the difference in the permeability leads to some diversity in NMR T2 curves, but the final conclusions for the mechanisms are consistent. They show a significant decrease in core permeability of 3.5 × 10−3 μm2 and 0.8 × 10−3 μm2 after gel plugging. With the injection of the oil phase, the permeability of the oil phase keeps increasing from 0.13 × 10−3 μm2 to 0.76 × 10−3 μm2 in the core permeability of 3.5 × 10−3 μm2. Similarly, the permeability of the oil phase increases from 0.03 × 10−3 μm2 to 0.19 × 10−3 μm2 in the core permeability of 0.8 × 10−3 μm2. During the oil-phase replacement phase, gel replacement in the large pores is the main cause of the increase in oil-phase permeability, and as the replacement process progresses, the mechanism for the increase in oil-phase permeability changes, and gel dehydration becomes the main mechanism for the increase in oil-phase permeability.
Oxides for Pt Capture in the Ammonia Oxidation Process—A Screening Study
Authors: Hessevik Julie , Carlsen Cathinka S. , Bestul Oskar K. , Waller David , Fjellvåg Helmer , Sjåstad Anja O.
Published: February 2025

Metallic Pd/Ni gauzes, located downstream of the Pt/Rh ammonia oxidation catalyst nets in the Ostwald process, is the current technology for capturing volatile gas phase platinum and rhodium species lost from the Pt/Rh combustion catalyst through evaporation. In this screening study, we explore four oxide families, ABO3 perovskites, (ABO3)n(AO) Ruddlesden–Popper (RP) phases, AO rock salt, and A2O3 sesquioxide type oxides, as alternative materials for platinum capture. It was found that all the tested nickelates, LaNiO3, NdNiO3, La2NiO4, and La4Ni3O10, captured platinum well and formed A2NiPtO6. In contrast, La0.85Sr0.15FeO3, LaFeO3, and LaCoO3 did not capture platinum. CaO, SrO, and Nd2O3 formed low-dimensional platinates such as CaxPt3O4, Sr4PtO6, and a newly discovered neodymium platinate, Nd10.67Pt4O24. Gd2O3 did not capture platinum in bench-scale experiments in dry air, but did, however, seem to capture platinum under pilot plant conditions, likely due to the co-capture of Co lost from the N2O abatement catalyst. The catalytic activity of both oxides and platinum-containing products were studied, toward NOx and N2O decomposition. None of the oxides showed significant activity toward NOx decomposition, and all showed activity toward N2O decomposition, but to different extents. An overall assessment of the screened oxides with respect to potential use in industrial Ostwald conditions is provided. All tested oxides except CaO and SrO withstood industrial conditions. From our assessments, the nickelates and A2O3 (A = Nd, Gd) stand out as superior oxides for platinum capture.
Physical Characterization of Coastal Macrowaste: A Comparison Between Cities in Central Western Africa (Libreville-Lome)
Authors: Mouloungui Kussu Leslie Bertha , Essono Milla Dimitri , Zoo Eyindanga Réne Casimir , Vimenyo Messan
Published: February 2025

The sustainability of coastal environments is becoming a major issue in the face of constantly changing urban populations correlated with anthropogenic activities. As a result, in-depth knowledge is needed to assess the vulnerability of coastal areas in African cities faced with a profusion of solid waste. In Libreville and Lomé, the aim of the study was to carry out a systematic inventory of coastal macrowaste, and to break down and characterize the data collected at 12 sites and 6 sites, respectively. The methodological approach adopted combines documentary research, direct observations and characterization using the MODECOM tool (household waste characterization method) to reveal the widespread presence of macrowaste in the coastal areas of the two towns. With regard to the MODECOM method, the study is based specifically on the sorting of materials according to three granulometric fractions: >100 mm, between 20 and 100 mm, and <20 mm. In addition to the dimensions of the objects, the classification of solid waste according to its nature enabled thirteen (13) categories of macrowaste to be generated. The results show that the quantity of macrowaste inventoried in Libreville was 654.21 kg, while in Lomé the weight of waste collected was 510 kg. On the whole, the proliferation of solid waste is due to physical factors and human activities, especially economic activities and recreational activities, which increase the rate of production. In terms of sustainable material management, the results point to a prosperous future for the biodegradable, non-biodegradable and inert waste streams.
Qualitative Testing of Questionnaires on Existential, Spiritual, and Religious Constructs: Epistemological Reflections
Authors: Stripp Tobias Anker
Published: February 2025

Quantitative methodologies using questionnaires are widely utilised across the health and social sciences, including when assessing difficult-to-measure constructs such as existential, spiritual, or religious constructs. The validity of the questionnaire is crucial to secure good research. Qualitative methods are essential to assess the validity of questionnaires, including a range of measurement properties such as comprehensiveness, comprehensibility, and content validity—properties that quantitative measures have difficulty addressing. Cognitive and semi-structured interviews are the most common qualitative methods to evaluate these properties when testing questionnaires. However, the choice of interview method and subsequent analysis also reflects a negotiation between epistemologies, influencing how the data are interpreted and applied. Based on experience with cognitive and semi-structured interviews to test a questionnaire on existential, spiritual, and religious constructs, this paper critically discusses the opposing epistemological premises for cognitive and semi-structured interviews. It is a relevant methodological discussion for researchers working with questionnaires in health sciences, not the least in relation to religious studies broadly speaking.
In the Beginning Was the Tao: Interreligious Paths Based on a Chinese Translation of John 1:1
Authors: Bondi Damiano , Zhao John
Published: February 2025

There are two main options for translating λόγος Logos in Chinese versions of John 1:1. One is to use 道Tào, which in this context means Wisdom and Creative Principle; the other is to use 言 Yán, which in this context means Holy Word. Our goal is to (1) give a historical overview of the first uses of 道Tao in the Protestant Bible and 言 Yan in the Catholic Bible and (2) discuss what has been lost, modified, or acquired by using Tao, both for Christianity and Taoism.
Case Report: Giant Colonic Lipoma, a Rare Benign Tumor Mimicking Malignancy
Authors: Oprita Bogdan , Serban Ioana Adriana , Enache Valentin , Prodan Alina , Oprita Ruxandra
Published: February 2025

Background and Clinical Significance: Colonic lipomas are benign tumors composed of adipose tissue, frequently asymptomatic and found incidentally on routine surveillance. Most lesions are smaller than 2 cm in diameter, while giant lipomas are characterized as over 4 cm. Giant colonic lipomas, though rare, may present with obstructive symptoms, gastrointestinal bleeding or intussusception and can mimic malignant lesions on imaging and endoscopic examination. Historically, the resection of these lesions has been limited to those that are larger or symptomatic. Recent observations indicate that lipomas may retain growth potential and can become symptomatic over time, though being inconsequential initially. Surgical resection is favored over endoscopic excision for lipomas above 2 cm to mitigate risks including haemorrhages and perforations. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 38-year-old female who exhibited non-specific gastrointestinal symptoms with a high suspicion of malignancy based on imaging and endoscopy but was ultimately diagnosed with a benign giant colonic lipoma. Conclusions: This case presents the challenges in diagnosing giant colonic lipomas, which, in certain cases, can mimic malignant lesions. Histopathological analysis remains the gold standard for confirming the diagnosis, especially in cases with atypical features.
High-Knee-Flexion Posture Recognition Using Multi-Dimensional Dynamic Time Warping on Inertial Sensor Data
Authors: Laudanski Annemarie F. , Küderle Arne , Kluge Felix , Eskofier Bjoern M. , Acker Stacey M.
Published: February 2025

Relating continuously collected inertial data to the activities or postures performed by the sensor wearer requires pattern recognition or machine-learning-based algorithms, accounting for the temporal and scale variability present in human movements. The objective of this study was to develop a sensor-based framework for the detection and measurement of high-flexion postures frequently adopted in occupational settings. IMU-based joint angle estimates for the ankle, knee, and hip were time and scale normalized prior to being input to a multi-dimensional Dynamic Time Warping (mDTW) distance-based Nearest Neighbour algorithm for the identification of twelve postures. Data from 50 participants were divided to develop and evaluate the mDTW model. Overall accuracies of 82.3% and 55.6% were reached when classifying movements from the testing and validation datasets, respectively, which increased to 86% and 74.6% when adjusting for imbalances between classification groups. The highest misclassification rates occurred between flatfoot squatting, heels-up squatting, and stooping, while the model was incapable of identifying sequences of walking based on a single stride template. The developed mDTW model proved robust in identifying high-flexion postures performed by participants both included and precluded from algorithm development, indicating its strong potential for the quantitative measurement of postural adoption in real-world settings.
CFR-YOLO: A Novel Cow Face Detection Network Based on YOLOv7 Improvement
Authors: Gao Guohong , Ma Yuxin , Wang Jianping , Li Zhiyu , Wang Yan , Bai Haofan
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of machine learning and deep learning technology, cow face detection technology has achieved remarkable results. Traditional contact cattle identification methods are costly; are easy to lose and tamper with; and can lead to a series of security problems, such as untimely disease prevention and control, incorrect traceability of cattle products, and fraudulent insurance claims. In order to solve these problems, this study explores the application of cattle face detection technology in cattle individual detection to improve the accuracy of detection, an approach that is particularly important in smart animal husbandry and animal behavior analysis. In this paper, we propose a novel cow face detection network based on YOLOv7 improvement, named CFR-YOLO. First of all, the method of extracting the features of a cow’s face (including nose, eye corner, and mouth corner) is constructed. Then, we calculate the frame center of gravity and frame size based on these feature points to design the cow face detection CFR-YOLO network model. To optimize the performance of the model, the activation function of FReLU is used instead of the original SiLU activation function, and the CBS module is replaced by the CBF module. The RFB module is introduced in the backbone network; and in the head layer, the CBAM convolutional attention module is introduced. The performance of CFR-YOLO is compared with other mainstream deep learning models (including YOLOv7, YOLOv5, YOLOv4, and SSD) on a self-built cow face dataset. Experiments indicate that the CFR-YOLO model achieves 98.46% accuracy (precision), 97.21% recall (recall), and 96.27% average accuracy (mAP), proving its excellent performance in the field of cow face detection. In addition, comparative analyses with the other four methods show that CFR-YOLO exhibits faster convergence speed while ensuring the same detection accuracy; and its detection accuracy is higher under the condition of the same model convergence speed. These results will be helpful to further develop the cattle identification technique.
Literature Review on Music, Social Work and Respect for Diversity
Authors: López de Aguileta Ane , Crespo-López Alba , López de Aguileta Garazi
Published: February 2025

The positive effects of music on physical and psychological wellbeing have been widely evidenced by scientific literature. However, its effects on the topics of research of Social Work have been less researched. Therefore, the present article addresses this issue of how music fosters what the definition of Social Work states: social change and development, social cohesion, the empowerment and liberation of people, and respect for diversity. The purpose of this study is to analyze in the existing scientific literature whether any research has analyzed the potential of music regarding the objectives of Social Work. To meet that objective, a comprehensive literature review of this topic has been carried out using Web of Science. In total, 28 articles have been analyzed. The results show the ability of music to promote participants’ cohesion, community creation, and transformative actions that align with the values and goals of Social Work. Implications of these results within the field and the social impact of the actions related to music toward respect for diversity are argued.
Correlations Between Body Composition and Aerobic Fitness in Elite Female Youth Water Polo Players
Authors: Zamodics Mark , Babity Mate , Schay Gusztav , Leel-Ossy Tamas , Bucsko-Varga Agnes , Kulcsar Panka , Benko Regina , Boroncsok Dora , Fabian Alexandra , Ujvari Adrienn , Ladanyi Zsuzsanna , Balla Dorottya , Vago Hajnalka , Kovacs Attila , Hosszu Eva , Meszaros Szilvia , Horvath Csaba , Merkely Bela , Kiss Orsolya
Published: February 2025

Body composition and cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) are vital for optimizing sports performance, but the correlations between them are still underexplored. Our study aimed to investigate the relationships between body composition and specific CPET variables describing physical fitness in young athletes, also adjusting for age and height, in a less-studied, female population. Seventy players participated in our study (age: 16.10 ± 1.63 y). After determining body composition using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, we conducted treadmill-based maximal-intensity CPET. Data were analyzed in R using multivariate linear regression, accounting for age and height as confounders. Lean body mass (LBM), body fat mass (BFM), and bone mineral content (BMC) showed no effect on resting, maximum, or recovery heart rates and no correlation with resting or maximal lactate values. LBM positively correlated with maximum ventilation (VE-max) (Est: 1.3 × 10−3; SE: 6.1 × 10−4; p < 0.05) and maximum absolute oxygen consumption (VO2abs-max) (Est: 7.710−5; SE: 6.9 × 10−6; p < 0.001)—with age as an influencing factor for VE-max and height as an influencing factor for VO2abs-max. Conversely, BFM showed a negative correlation with maximum relative oxygen consumption (VO2rel-max) (Est: −4.8 × 10−4; SE: 1.2 × 10−4; p < 0.001). Moreover, BFM and BMC were also negatively correlated with maximal exercise duration (Est: −2.2 × 10−4; SE: 8.0 × 10−5; p < 0.01; Est: −3.2 × 10−3; SE: 1.4 × 10−3; p < 0.05) with height as an influencing factor. Our findings indicate complex correlations between body composition and CPET parameters, providing important information for the analysis of individual ergospirometric data. Our results draw attention to the fact that body composition is more precise than weight and height in the evaluation of athletes’ physical fitness.
Chaos Caused by Different Cutoff Dates: Relative Age Effects and Redshirting in Collegiate Volleyball in the United States
Authors: Redman Grace , Pierce Scott , Kelly Adam Leigh
Published: February 2025

Relative Age Effects (RAEs) are a phenomenon in athletics related to an over-representation of individuals born closer to an arbitrary cutoff date. Such effects have been shown in many different countries, levels of play, and contexts, although they are yet to be studied in volleyball within the United States, which is the second most popular high school girls’ sport and the fastest growing high school and college sport for males. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine RAEs in college volleyball. Publicly available data were collected from the websites of women’s Division I program (n = 1253) and men’s Division I/II (n = 164). Chi-squared goodness of fit tests were used to compare birth rate distributions. Data accounted for gender, school and club cutoff dates, athletic timing, and redshirt status. Results showed RAEs were strongest in women on-time school group. Interestingly, reverse effects were observed (i.e., an overrepresentation of relatively younger athletes) for delayed school volleyball players, but this expected trend was not observed in the redshirt group. On-time women’s club group showed academic timing was a significant contributor towards RAEs, whilst these effects were strongest for the on-time school group in men.
Integrating Climate Change Adaptation and Water Resource Management: A Critical Overview
Authors: Lindner André , Stamm Jürgen
Published: February 2025

Water resources are increasingly vulnerable due to the effects of climate change, which influences both their availability and quality. It is crucial to incorporate climate change adaptation strategies into water resource management to address these challenges and support sustainable practices. This article provides a critical overview of recent advancements in this integration, addressing both theoretical frameworks and practical applications. The discussion highlights the importance of distinguishing between mitigation and adaptation strategies, emphasizing their unique characteristics and interdependencies. Climate change alters water quality through increased temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and extreme weather events, necessitating adaptive strategies to maintain water quality. Immediate coping strategies, such as alternative water sources and filtration systems, address pressing issues but must be complemented by incremental and transformational strategies for long-term resilience. Incremental strategies include upgrading infrastructure and enhancing agricultural practices, while transformational strategies involve comprehensive changes like redesigning urban water systems and revising water governance frameworks. This article identifies socio-economic constraints, awareness gaps, and data deficiencies as significant challenges to effective adaptation. It advocates for integrating climate and water policies, enhancing international co-operation, and investing in innovation and technology. Case studies from India and Vietnam illustrate successful integration of climate adaptation into water management, providing valuable insights for other regions. Overall, a holistic, multi-faceted approach is essential to secure a sustainable water future in the face of climate change.
Correction: Lee et al. Reducing Methane Emissions with Humic Acid–Iron Complex in Rice Cultivation: Impact on Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Rice Yield. Sustainability 2024, 16, 4059
Authors: Lee Hyoung-Seok , Gwon Hyo-Suk , Lee Sun-Il , Park Hye-Ran , Lee Jong-Mun , Park Do-Gyun , Lee So-Ra , Eom So-Hyeon , Oh Taek-Keun
Published: February 2025

The authors would like to make the following corrections to the published paper [...]
Inhibiting or Promoting? Urban–Rural Income Inequality and Carbon Emission Performance
Authors: Li Jiwen , Gan Chang
Published: February 2025

Income inequality and carbon emission are two critical challenges that need to be solved to achieve SDGs. Unfortunately, few studies have explored the effect of urban–rural income inequality (URII) on carbon emission performance (CEP) from a holistic view that integrates local and adjacent hierarchies. Utilizing provincial data spanning from 2005 to 2021 in China, this paper examines the mechanism and influence of URII on CEP by using the spatial Durbin model and a mediating effect model. The results indicate that URII and CEP display significant spatial agglomeration characteristics. URII can inhibit the CEP, which also exerts a negative spatial spillover effect on CEP. URII can not only directly affect CEP but also indirectly influence it by increasing energy consumption and widening the urban–rural consumption gap. The negative effect of URII on CEP demonstrates regional variability, with a particularly prominent effect observed in the eastern region.