bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The 10 October 2024 geomagnetic storm may have caused the premature reentry of a Starlink satellite
Authors: Oliveira Denny M. , Zesta Eftyhia , Nandy Dibyendu
Published: January 2025

In this short communication, we qualitatively analyze possible effects of the 10 October 2024 geomagnetic storm on accelerating the reentry of a Starlink satellite from very low-Earth orbit (VLEO). The storm took place near the maximum of solar cycle (SC) 25, which has shown to be more intense than SC24. Based on preliminary geomagnetic indices, the 10 October 2024, along with the 10 May 2024, were the most intense events since the well-known Halloween storms of October/November 2003. By looking at a preliminary version of the Dst index and altitudes along with velocities extracted from two-line element (TLE) data of the Starlink-1089 (SL-1089) satellite, we observe a possible connection between storm main phase onset and a sharp decay of SL-1089. The satellite was predicted to reenter on 22 October, but it reentered on 12 October, 10 days before schedule. The sharp altitude decay of SL-1089 revealed by TLE data coincides with the storm main phase onset. We compare the deorbiting altitudes of another three satellites during different geomagnetic conditions and observe that the day difference between actual and predicted reentries increases for periods with higher geomagnetic activity. Therefore, we call for future research to establish the eventual causal relationship between storm occurrence and satellite orbital decay. As predicted by previous works, SC25 is already producing extreme geomagnetic storms with unprecedented satellite orbital drag effects and consequences for current megaconstellations in VLEO.
What do we know: positive impact of hip-hop pedagogy on student's learning effects
Authors: Ling Xi , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhao Shixin , Zheng Dongping
Published: January 2025

Over the last decade, hip-hop pedagogy has received a lot of attention in the field of education because of its significance in improving students’ learning effects. This review articulates the current understanding of the positive impact of hip-hop pedagogy on students’ learning effects within publications, an under-researched area. Based on a review of previous studies, this review innovatively examines six major elements of hip-hop pedagogy (DJ, MC, cypher, breakdance, knowledge, and graffiti) and concludes that the six major elements of hip-hop pedagogy can, in terms of the four dimensions of learning motivation, engagement, learning and memorization, and critical thinking, improve students’ learning effects. Hip-hop pedagogy is an all-encompassing pedagogy that is popular with youth and deserves more in-depth research by hip-hop educators in the future.
Gameplay and physical activity behaviors in adult video game players
Authors: Scoggins Haylei , Porter Ryan R. , Braun-Trocchio Robyn
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Since the early 2000s, the video game industry has seen extraordinary booms in product development and market growth, with the total number of video game players globally reaching 2.69 billion by the end of 2020. Despite the rapid growth of the industry, there is little recent data investigating the time adult video game players spend sedentary playing video games and the time they spent engaged in physical activity. The purpose of this quantitative, cross-sectional, non-experimental survey study is to describe the frequency and duration of video game play and physical activity in adult video game players.

Methods

Participants completed an online survey, evaluating their demographic and health history information, video game play, and physical activity behaviors.

Results

The study used data from a total of 221 participants (Males = 153, Females = 68). The mean age of the participants was 27.29 (SD 7.27) years. Of the 221 participants, 145 identified as casual players, 50 amateurs, 24 semi-professionals, and 2 professionals. The participants spent over five days per week and an average of 26.56 h per week playing video games. Personal computers were reported to have the longest duration of play of the four platforms investigated (17.59 h per week). The total amount of time participants spent engaged in cumulative moderate-to-vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was an average of 15.43 (SD 16.79) hours per week. The majority of this time was spent engaged in occupational physical activity (5.11 h per week). Participants spent 2.39 h per week engaged in leisure time MVPA.

Conclusion

Our results indicate an increase in VG play compared to 2018, suggesting United States adult video game players may be more at risk for detrimental effects to their physical health. This could be attributed to the habits formed during the COVID-19 pandemic, the influences from video genre game play mechanics, and the social aspects of playing video games with friends. Future research should focus on developing research methodologies that will objectively measure adult video game player frequencies and durations in video game play alongside extensive observation of different video gameplay mechanic genres and their relationships with physical activity.
Anti-influenza effects of Aloe vera gel on MDCK cells: protective efficacy against ultraviolet-C exposure and analysis of biochemical characteristics and microbial activities
Authors: Al-Eisa Rasha A. , Sami Rokayya , Bedaiwi Ruqaiah I. , Kadi Roqayah H. , Abushal Suzan A. , Johari Doaa Mahmoud , Alnajeebi Afnan M. , Algheshairy Reham M. , Abu-Zaid Abeer A. , Al-Dhumri Sami A.
Published: January 2025

The main objective of the current study was to examine the anti-influenza effects of Aloe vera gel on the Madin–Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cell line, as well as its protective efficacy against ultraviolet-C exposure, by studying its biochemical characterization and microbial activities. The lowest IC50 value (4.23 mg/mL) was reported for the treated cells, with a concentration of 8 mg/ML of Aloe vera extract after contamination with the AP/R/8 virus. After 2 h of ultraviolet-C exposure, all cells in the control group and those with single-sided gel application died, while the cells treated with the gel on both sides showed 29.000 viable cells. The lowest inhibition activity was detected against Bacillus subtilis (2.20 mm) at a concentration of 20 μL. In comparison, the highest inhibition activity was observed against Pseudomonas aeruginosa (21.29 mm) at a concentration of 100 μL. The highest values were detected in the Aloe vera gel samples in the following sequence: magnesium (28.43 mg/100 g), phosphorus (2.98 mg/100 g), zinc (143.01 μg/100 g), selenium (137.18 μg/100 g), iron (19.78 μg/100 g), chromium (15.40 μg/100 g), aluminum (12.35 μg/100 g), and vanadium (8.70 μg/100 g). On the other hand, trace elements such as cadmium, cobalt, and nickel showed the lowest concentrations (0.05, 0.12, and 0.23 μg/100 g, respectively). The plant contained high quantities of phenols, flavonoids, tannins, saponins, and anthraquinones, along with high antioxidant activity (1,1-diphenyl-2picrylhydrazyl, DPPH) and ascorbic acid content. Based on these observations, it can be concluded that Aloe vera plants contain variable compounds that may be responsible for their therapeutic and pharmacological uses.
Case Report: Robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder diverticulectomy: a case series and initial experience
Authors: Ge Guangju , Wang Haihong , Zheng Qiming , Zhang Shuai , Wang Huan , Ma Liang
Published: January 2025

Objectives

To explore the experience of tumor control technique in robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder diverticulectomy (RALBD) in the treatment of bladder diverticulum tumor, intraoperative tumor control and postoperative comprehensive treatment.

Patients and methods

We treated three male patients with bladder diverticulum tumors. Case 1 involved a 63-year-old with a 3.0 cm tumor in the diverticulum on the right bladder wall. Case 2 involved a 70-year-old with a 1.0 cm cauliflower-like tumor in the diverticulum on the left bladder wall. Case 3 involved a 64-year-old with a 3.0 cm tumor in the diverticulum on the right bladder wall. Each patient underwent robot-assisted laparoscopic partial cystectomy (PC) with ureteral Double J (D-J) stent placement. To minimize the risk of intraoperative tumor spread, we implemented enhanced surgical techniques. Systemic chemotherapy and adjuvant intravesical chemotherapy were recommended to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence and metastasis.

Results

Postoperative pathology confirmed papillary urothelial carcinoma in all three cases. Each patient was followed up for over 20 months, with no evidence of recurrence or distant metastasis observed through cystoscopy and chest and abdominal CT scans.

Conclusion

For patients with urothelial carcinoma in a bladder diverticulum, robot-assisted laparoscopic bladder-sparing surgery is a viable option when appropriate cases are selected. Effective intraoperative tumor control and comprehensive postoperative treatment are crucial to minimizing recurrence and metastasis risks. The robotic approach offers enhanced precision and visualization compared to traditional open or laparoscopic techniques, potentially leading to improved outcomes regarding intraoperative tumor control and reduced postoperative complications. However, this study is limited by its small sample size of only three patients and short-term follow-up. A larger sample of patients is needed to confirm the advantages of the robotic approach.
Retrospective evaluation of acid–base imbalances, clinicopathologic alterations, and prognostic factors in hospitalized calves with Eimeria-associated diarrhea
Authors: Urgibl-Bauer Andrea , Lorch Annette , Badura Dana , Zablotski Yury , Constable Peter D. , Trefz Florian M.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

After the neonatal period Eimeriosis is one of the most common causes of large intestinal diarrhea in calves. In contrast to neonatal calves with diarrhea, there are very few reports about the clinicopathological alterations in affected animals, which are mainly based on experimental data. The aim of the present study was therefore to characterize acid–base and related clinicopathologic alterations in calves with Eimeria-associated diarrhea and to identify variables associated with in-hospital mortality.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of clinical and clinicopathologic findings extracted from medical records of 118 calves aged 1 to 5 months admitted to a veterinary teaching hospital.

Results

Severely affected calves were profoundly hyponatremic and hypochloremic, with a strong correlation between plasma sodium and chloride concentrations (Spearman’s rs = 0.90). Acidemia was found in 57.6% of calves and was associated with hyperphosphatemia, hyper-L-lactatemia, and the presence of unidentified strong ions. Forty-seven calves (39.8%) did not survive to hospital discharge. Classification tree analysis indicated that hospital mortality was associated with plasma ionized calcium concentrations <1.05 mmol/L, initial leukocyte counts >16 × 109 cells/L, and a poor or cachectic body condition. The resulting sensitivity and specificity for predicting non-survival of this model was 59.6 and 90.1%, respectively. In addition to plasma ionized calcium [Odds ratio (OR) = 0.011] and leukocyte concentrations (OR = 1.08), recumbency (OR = 6.1), albumin (OR = 0.90), and decreased strong ion difference (OR = 0.91) were associated with mortality in a second modeling approach (sensitivity 78.7%, specificity 71.8%).

Conclusion

Calves with Eimeria-associated diarrhea can develop profound clinicopathologic derangements. The identified prognostic factors suggest that advanced disease severity, indicated by an inability to stand and reduced body condition, is associated with a lower chance of survival.
Use of the oxygen reserve index/FiO2 as a non-invasive index to estimate venous admixture in anesthetized dogs
Authors: Bellini Luca , Maney Jill K. , Zanusso Francesca , Dzikiti Brighton T.
Published: January 2025

The oxygen reserve index (ORi) is a novel, non-invasive parameter that estimates arterial oxygen partial pressure (PaO2) during hyperoxia when the fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) is elevated. This study aimed to assess the utility of the ORi/FiO2 ratio as an index for quantifying F-shunt, serving as an estimate of venous admixture. Anesthetic records were reviewed from 44 dogs undergoing general anesthesia and requiring arterial catheterization. ORi was measured via a CO-oximeter using a probe on the tongue. Paired measurements of PaO2, obtained by blood gas analysis, and ORi were taken at various FiO2 levels to achieve an ORi between 0 and 1. Venous admixture was quantified by F-shunt. Spearman’s correlation coefficient assessed the relationship between ORi/FiO2 and F-shunt. Youden’s index identified the optimal cut-off point to predict a physiological F-shunt (≤ 10%). A total of 77 paired observations were collected, revealing a moderate negative correlation between F-shunt and ORi/FiO2 (rho = −0.59, p < 0.001). An ORi/FiO2 cut-off of 1.2 demonstrated 80% sensitivity for identifying dogs with an F-shunt ≤10%, with a ROC curve area above 80%. However, the index was less effective at distinguishing dogs with higher shunt fractions. The ORi/FiO2 index identifies dogs with low F-shunt during anesthesia with strong sensitivity and predictive accuracy, potentially ruling out the occurrence of ventilation-perfusion inequality. However, it cannot replace blood gas analysis for quantifying venous admixture.
Uveitis and blindness in a closed herd of Equidae following leptospiral infection
Authors: Gerras J. , Young K. , Roberts D. , Waldman G. , Salmon J. H. , Gilger B. C.
Published: January 2025

Objective

To describe the ocular findings, chronology of disease, and serum leptospiral titers in a group of horses, mules, and donkeys following an outbreak of leptospirosis.

Methods

Fifty Equidae in central North Carolina had ophthalmic examinations and serum leptospiral microscopic agglutination test (MAT) titers performed every 3–6 months for 24 months followed by a final examination at 34 months.

Results

Throughout the nearly three-year study period, 17 horses (34%; 17/49 horses) developed signs of uveitis; 20 eyes (20/34; 58.8%) of these 17 horses were visual at the initial examination, but only four eyes (11.8%) remained visual at the final examination. Serum titers (serogroups Pomona and Bratislava) in horses with uveitis were significantly elevated compared to Equidae without uveitis (p < 0.02). In the 32 horses, donkeys, and mules that did not develop uveitis, a subgroup of 11 horses and one donkey had negative or low serum leptospiral titers (titers ≤1:800) while a second subgroup of 16 horses, three mules, and one donkey had high leptospiral titers (>1:800) but never developed uveitis. Water sources in the pasture were found to have high levels of leptospira.

Conclusion

Approximately 1/3 of horses on a farm exposed to Leptospira developed uveitis and blindness. Serum titers to L. Pomona and L. Bratislava were significantly elevated in horses with uveitis. However, despite exposure, some horses, even with very high serum titers, never developed ocular disease. These data indicates that further research is warranted to investigate the genetic and immunological aspects of the pathogenesis and susceptibility of leptospiral-associated uveitis.
Effects of lipopolysaccharide infusion on feed intake, apparent digestibility, rumen fermentation and microorganisms of young Holstein bulls fed diets with different ratios of lysine and methionine
Authors: Wang Huiyao , Liu Hongyun , Pan Shijia , Ma Zhicong , Wang Yanming , Liu Jianxin , Wang Chong , An Zhigao
Published: January 2025

The aim of this experiment was to investigate the effects of intravenous infusion of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and feeding different ratios of lysine (Lys) and methionine (Met) on feed intake, apparent digestibility, rumen fermentation and microorganisms in young Holstein bulls. Five seven-month-old Holstein bulls with similar body weights (279 ± 42 kg) were selected and subjected to a 5 × 5 Latin square experiment. The control group (CON) was fed with basal diet and the ratio of Lys to Met in the diet was adjusted to 3.0: 1. The experimental groups were received LPS infusion while being fed the basal diet (TRT1), along with LPS infusion and the addition of rumen-protected lysine (RPL) and rumen-protected methionine (RPM) to make the ratio of Lys to Met to 2.5:1 (TRT2), 3.0:1 (TRT3) and 3.5: 1 (TRT4), respectively. The LPS jugular infusion dose was set at 0.01 μg/kg body weight on days 1–3 and 0.05 μg/kg body weight on days 4–7. The trial was conducted over five periods, consisting of a 7-day trial period and a 6-day interval. The results indicated that there were no significant effects of LPS infusion on feed intake and apparent digestibility in young Holstein bulls fed different ratios of Lys and Met (p > 0.05). The treatment had no significant effects on the pH and total volatile fatty acids (p > 0.05). Compared with CON, the acetate content in the experimental groups exhibited an increasing trend (p = 0.066), while the content of NH3-N decreased significantly (p < 0.05). LPS infusion had no significant effect on rumen microorganisms at either the species or phylum level (p > 0.05). However, feeding different ratios of Lys and Met could significantly increasing the abundance of Oribacterium (p < 0.05) and tended to increase the abundance of norank_f__norank_o__RF_39 at the genus level (p = 0.087). These findings suggest that adding RPL and RPM into the diet may enhance the rumen environment in young Holstein bulls. Under the conditions of this experiment, adding RPL and RPM can mitigate the negative effects associated with LPS infusion, with an optimal ratio of Lys and Met is 3.0:1.
Bees on the run: Nosema spp. (Microsporidia) in Apis mellifera and related products, Italy
Authors: Sgroi Giovanni , D’Auria Luigi Jacopo , Lucibelli Maria Gabriella , Mancusi Andrea , Proroga Yolande Thérèsa Rose , Esposito Mauro , Rea Simona , Signorelli Daniel , Gargano Federica , D’Alessio Nicola , Manoj Ranju Ravindran Santhakumari , Khademi Peyman , Rofrano Giuseppe
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The decline of the European/western honeybee (Apis mellifera) population is on account of a plethora of microorganisms, such as Nosema apis and Nosema ceranae, two microsporidian fungi responsible of nosemosis that affects welfare and production of the bee industry. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the presence of both pathogens in bees, pollen and honey from apiaries in Southwestern Italy.

Methods

From March to July 2022 and 2023, apiaries (n = 10) were selected and classified as High Impact Areas (HIAs, n = 5) and Low Impact Areas (LIAs, n = 5) according to a 5-point environmental risk index based on factors affecting bee health sand related productions. Bee, pollen and honey samples, were collected and tested for Nosema spp. DNA by specific PCR protocols targeting the 16S rRNA gene. Signs/symptoms of nosemosis were monitored and collected by the cooperation of beekeepers.

Results

Out of 10 apiaries, 6 (i.e., 60%, 95% CI: 31.3–83.2) tested positive for at least one sample to Nosema spp. DNA, being 2 positives for N. apis, 2 for N. ceranae and 2 co-infected (i.e., 20%, 5.7–51.0). Based on the biological samples, honey was positive for N. apis in one apiary, pollen for N. ceranae in two apiaries, and bees for N. apis in 3 apiaries, N. ceranae in 1 apiary, and both species in 1 apiary. In all the apiaries positive to N. apis and N. ceranae, high mortality and low honey production were observed. A higher risk of infection was observed in apiaries from HIAs (OR = 6.00). The sequences of N. apis and N. ceranae had 99.5–100% homology with those in the GenBank database. Whereas all sequences of N. apis were identical to each other, four sequences types of N. ceranae characterized by single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were identified. The computation of polymorphisms revealed high haplotype diversity (i.e., Hd = 1.000) and low nucleotide diversity (i.e., Pi = 0.00913) of N. ceranae sequence types.

Discussion

This study reveals a high circulation of N. apis and N. ceranae in Southwestern Italy, indicating the need for improved monitoring of these microsporidia to protect bee welfare and bee industry.
Exploring Spatial Inequalities in COVID-19 Mortality and Their Association With Multidimensional Poverty in Colombia: A Spatial Analysis Study
Authors: Birchenall-Jiménez Claudia , Jiménez-Barbosa Wilson Giovanni , Riascos-Ochoa Javier , Cosenz Federico
Published: January 2025

Objectives

The objective is to examine spatial inequalities in COVID-19 mortality rates in Colombia in relation to the spatial distribution of multidimensional poverty.

Methods

A retrospective spatial epidemiological study was conducted in Colombia from 2020 to 2022. Spatial statistics such as Moran’s I index, LISA analysis, and simultaneous autoregressive conditional (SAC) regression models were used.

Results

The Moran’s I index for different years was as follows: 2020: 0.3 (p = 0.0001), 2021: 0.27 (p = 0.0001), and 2022: 0.26 (p = 0.0001). In 2020, the significant variables were low educational achievement, barriers to early childhood care, child labor, school non-attendance, informal employment, lack of health insurance, inadequate floor material, and critical overcrowding. In 2021, the significant variables were low educational achievement, critical overcrowding, inadequate excreta disposal, and lack of access to water sources. In 2022, the significant variables were school lag and inadequate excreta disposal.

Conclusion

This study revealed that in Colombia, a series of socioeconomic and health factors are interconnected and contribute to COVID-19 mortality. These changes may reflect various socioeconomic, political, and environmental dynamics that shifted during the pandemic years.
Anti-ceramide antibody and sphingosine-1-phosphate as potential biomarkers of unresectable non-small cell lung cancer
Authors: Bűdi Lilla , Hammer Dániel , Varga Rita , Müller Veronika , Tárnoki Ádám Domonkos , Tárnoki Dávid László , Mészáros Martina , Bikov András , Horváth Péter
Published: January 2025

Objectives

Spingosine-1-phosphate (S1P) and ceramides are bioactive sphingolipids that influence cancer cell fate. Anti-ceramide antibodies might inhibit the effects of ceramide. The aim of this study was to assess the potential role of circulating S1P and anti-ceramide antibody as biomarkers in non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC).

Methods

We recruited 66 subjects (34 controls and 32 patients with NSCLC). Patient history and clinical variables were taken from all participants. Venous blood samples were collected to evaluate plasma biomarkers. If bronchoscopy was performed, bronchial washing fluid (BWF) was also analyzed. We measured the levels of S1P and anti-ceramide antibody with ELISA.

Results

S1P levels were significantly higher in the NSCLC group (3770.99 ± 762.29 ng/mL vs. 366.53 ± 249.38 ng/mL, patients with NSCLC vs. controls, respectively, p < 0.001). Anti-ceramide antibody levels were significantly elevated in the NSCLC group (278.70 ± 19.26 ng/mL vs. 178.60 ± 18 ng/mL, patients with NSCLC vs. controls, respectively, p = 0.007). Age or BMI had no significant effect on anti-ceramide antibody or S1P levels. BWF samples had higher levels of anti-ceramide antibody (155.29 ± 27.58 ng/mL vs. 105.87 ± 9.99 ng/mL, patients with NSCLC vs. controls, respectively, p < 0.001). Overall survival (OS) was 13.36 months. OS was not affected by anti-ceramide antibody or S1P levels.

Conclusion

Higher levels of S1P and anti-ceramide antibody were associated with active cancer. These results suggest that sphingolipid alterations might be important features of NSCLC.
The Impact of Monetary Policy Institutional Decisions on Convergence in Central and Eastern European Countries
Authors: Szapáry György , Vonnák Balázs
Published: January 2025

Our study looks at the role of monetary policy related institutional decisions in the nominal and real convergence of the 11 former socialist Central and Eastern European EU Member States over the three decades following their regime change. We use our empirical model to estimate the impact of four key drivers of the monetary policy framework (exchange rate regime, central bank independence, inflation targeting, euro adoption) on inflation and real economic growth. Our main finding is that the convergence rate over the past decades has had little to do with the choice of exchange rate regime or the potential adoption of the euro or inflation targeting and much more with the establishment of central bank independence. The latter has reduced inflation by roughly 5 percentage points, while boosting real GDP growth by about 2 percentage points. This suggests that central bank independence significantly enhances the credibility and predictability of monetary policy and largely determines the success of each monetary regime.
Implementing Monetary Policy in Hungary Under Flexible Inflation Targeting
Authors: Ábel István , Siklos Pierre L.
Published: January 2025

Stabilising properties have always been an important aspect of monetary policy implementation, albeit with due recognition of the economic environment. We develop a simple theoretical model to evaluate the main elements in the choice of policy strategy aimed at inflation control. While the analytical framework is useful to assess different monetary policy frameworks, our focus is the flexible inflation targeting framework that provides a role for exchange rate fluctuations. Empirical evidence, relying on Taylor rules, suggests that monetary policy has been practiced with considerable flexibility in Hungary and has contributed to business cycle stabilisation.
Hyperinflation after the First World War in Central Europe: Causes, Remedies, Consequences
Authors: James Harold
Published: January 2025

The paper examines in detail Germany and Poland, two of the four post-First World War hyperinflations that provided the subject of Thomas Sargent’s classic comparative study of the circumstances in which inflations might be ended. It counterposes the Czechoslovak case, where stabilisation occurred without prior hyperinflation. Stabilisation brought substantial costs, most obviously in terms of recession and unemployment. The peripheral inflating countries had sought to use inflation to effect an international as well as an internal redistribution of wealth. Ending the inflation was thus politically costly, and usually involved ceding some aspect of sovereignty or limiting the room for domestic political manoeuvre. Hence many inflations were not really ended, but produced premature celebrations before a relapse, accompanied by a move against external control.
DDL R-CNN: Dynamic Direction Learning R-CNN for Rotated Object Detection
Authors: Su Weixian , Jing Donglin
Published: January 2025

Current remote sensing (RS) detectors often rely on predefined anchor boxes with fixed angles to handle the multi-directional variations of targets. This approach makes it challenging to accurately select regions of interest and extract features that align with the direction of the targets. Most existing regression methods also adopt angle regression to match the attributes of remote sensing detectors. Due to the inconsistent regression direction and massive anchor boxes with a high aspect ratio, the extracted target features change greatly, the loss function changes drastically, and the training is unstable. However, existing RS detectors and regression techniques have not been able to effectively balance the precision of directional feature extraction with the complexity of the models. To address these challenges, this paper introduces a novel approach known as Dynamic Direction Learning R-CNN (DDL R-CNN), which comprises a dynamic direction learning (DDL) module and a boundary center region offset generation network (BC-ROPN). The DDL module pre-extracts the directional features of targets to provide a coarse estimation of their angles and the corresponding weights. This information is used to generate rotationally aligned anchor boxes that better model the directional features of the targets. BC-ROPN represents an innovative method for anchor box regression. It utilizes the central features of the maximum bounding rectangle’s width and height, along with the coarse angle estimation and weights derived from DDL module, to refine the orientation of the anchor box. Our method has been proven to surpass existing rotating detection networks in extensive testing across two widely used remote sensing detection datasets, namely UCAS-AOD and HRSC2016.
YOLO-TC: An Optimized Detection Model for Monitoring Safety-Critical Small Objects in Tower Crane Operations
Authors: Ding Dong , Deng Zhengrong , Yang Rui
Published: January 2025

Ensuring operational safety within high-risk environments, such as construction sites, is paramount, especially for tower crane operations where distractions can lead to severe accidents. Despite existing behavioral monitoring approaches, the task of identifying small yet hazardous objects like mobile phones and cigarettes in real time remains a significant challenge in ensuring operator compliance and site safety. Traditional object detection models often fall short in crane operator cabins due to complex lighting conditions, cluttered backgrounds, and the small physical scale of target objects. To address these challenges, we introduce YOLO-TC, a refined object detection model tailored specifically for tower crane monitoring applications. Built upon the robust YOLOv7 architecture, our model integrates a novel channel–spatial attention mechanism, ECA-CBAM, into the backbone network, enhancing feature extraction without an increase in parameter count. Additionally, we propose the HA-PANet architecture to achieve progressive feature fusion, addressing scale disparities and prioritizing small object detection while reducing noise from unrelated objects. To improve bounding box regression, the MPDIoU Loss function is employed, resulting in superior accuracy for small, critical objects in dense environments. The experimental results on both the PASCAL VOC benchmark and a custom dataset demonstrate that YOLO-TC outperforms baseline models, showcasing its robustness in identifying high-risk objects under challenging conditions. This model holds significant promise for enhancing automated safety monitoring, potentially reducing occupational hazards by providing a proactive, resilient solution for real-time risk detection in tower crane operations.
Physics-Informed Neural Network-Based Input Shaping for Vibration Suppression of Flexible Single-Link Robots
Authors: Li Tingfeng , Xiao Tengfei
Published: January 2025

The vibration suppression of flexible robotic arms is challenging due to their nonlinear spatiotemporal dynamics. This paper presents a novel physics-informed neural network (PINN)-based input-shaping method for the vibration suppression problem. Through a two-phase training process of a neural network based on a loss function that follows both the physical model constraints and the vibration modal conditions, we identify optimal input-shaping parameters to minimize residual vibration. With the use of powerful computational resources to handle multimode information about the vibration, the PINN-based approach outperforms traditional input-shaping methods in terms of computational efficiency and performance. Extensive simulations are carried out to validate the effectiveness of the method and highlight its potential for complex control tasks in flexible robotic systems.
Effect of Natural Marination Based on Apple Vinegar and Acid Whey on Volatile and Sensory Profile, Safety, and Physicochemical Properties of Raw Fermented Beef Hams
Authors: Sionek Barbara , Okoń Anna , Łepecka Anna , Antoniewska-Krzeska Agata , Szymański Piotr , Jaworska Danuta , Rutkowska Jarosława , Kołożyn-Krajewska Danuta
Published: January 2025

Consumers appreciate fermented meat products due to their nutritional value and unique taste. Fermented fruit vinegar used traditionally to preserve food is characterized by a high content of nutrients and bioactive ingredients. Acid whey has antioxidant and antibacterial properties and can provide probiotic lactic acid bacteria (LAB). Three variants of the fermented beef hams were produced: AW—1.5% salt and 5% acid whey, A—1.5% salt and 5% apple vinegar, and C—1.5% salt. The effect of natural marination, based on apple vinegar and acid whey on volatiles, physicochemical and microbiological parameters, and sensory quality of the raw fermented beef hams was assessed. The highest pH and the lowest oxidation–reduction potential value (ORP) was found for A hams after production and after storage (p < 0.05). AW hams had the highest Thiobarbituric Acid-Reactive Substances (TBARS) value after production (6.07 mg MDA/kg) and after 8 months of storage (6.12 mg MDA/kg) (p < 0.05). The AW and A hams showed moderate overall sensory quality after production and after storage (above 5 c.u.). Both treatments modify the formation and stability of volatile compounds, not affecting the overall quality. The number of LAB in raw fermented beef hams with acid whey and apple vinegar was high (approximately 7 log CFU/g) after 3 months, and this decreased after 8 months of storage to 6.24 and 5.83 log CFU/g, respectively, for AW and A treatment. Among sixty volatile compounds, an abundance of aldehydes, carboxylic acids, esters, and alcohols dominated, which contributed to the formation of aroma attributes of beef hams. This study demonstrates that apple vinegar and acid whey can be used for the production of microbiologically safe fermented beef hams with good sensory quality.
Exploring the Role of Edible Dock Powder (Rumex K-1) in Enhancing Growth Performance, Organ Health, and Cecal Microbiota in Sanhua Goslings
Authors: Wang Xianze , Wang Junliang , Liu Yi , Li Guangquan , Gong Shaoming , Wang Huiying , He Daqian
Published: January 2025

This study investigated the effects of dietary Edible Dock Powder (EDP) on growth performance, organ development, serum biochemistry, and cecal microbiota in Sanhua goslings. A total of 240 goslings were randomly allocated into four groups: one control group (Group A) and three experimental groups supplemented with EDP at concentrations of 1.00% (Group B), 2.50% (Group C), and 4.00% (Group D). Group B showed a significantly decreased feed-to-gain ratio (F/G) compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Organ analysis indicated an increase in liver and glandular stomach weights in Groups B and C (p < 0.05). Serum aspartate transaminase (AST) levels were significantly decreased in the EDP groups (p < 0.05), and glucose (GLU) levels were notably lower in Groups C and D compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Cecal microbiota analysis revealed that Group B was enriched in Prevotella and Streptococcaceae, while Cyanobacteria and Alistipes were higher in Group C. Additionally, Desulfovibrio was positively correlated with glandular stomach weight, and Oxalobacter with ADG (p < 0.05). These findings suggest that 1.00–2.50% EDP supplementation supports growth, enhances liver and gut health, and optimizes microbiota composition, providing a viable functional feed strategy for goslings.
Genome-Wide Analysis of the PLATZ Gene Family in Oryza Genus: Evolution, Expression During Inflorescence Development and Stress Responses
Authors: Chen Hongwei , Ma Xiufang , Lv Guilan , Wang Zheng , Wang Lili , Yan Bowen , Shang Wenqi , Wang Xianju , Ma Zuobin , Zheng Wenjing
Published: January 2025

The PLATZ gene family, known for its pivotal roles in regulating plant growth, development, and stress responses, is of great significance in rice biology and crop improvement efforts. In this study, we undertook a comprehensive identification and analysis of the PLATZ gene family across 10 Oryza genus species, including both cultivated and wild rice varieties. A total of 144 PLATZ genes were identified, demonstrating their widespread distribution. Phylogenetic analysis revealed six distinct groups among these genes, with high sequence similarity among members indicating a common evolutionary origin and potential functional conservation. Further analysis of conserved motifs, domains, and promoter regions provided insights into the transcriptional regulation and potential functions of PLATZ genes. Notably, expression profiling showed differential expression patterns of specific PLATZ genes, such as OsPLATZ7, OsPLATZ9, and OsPLATZ11, under various abiotic stress conditions and hormone treatments, highlighting their important roles in stress adaptation and hormone signaling. Additionally, the consistently high expression of OsPLATZ9 across multiple tissues suggests its involvement in multiple developmental processes. Overall, this study provides a detailed characterization of the PLATZ gene family in rice, laying the foundation for future functional studies and potential applications in agricultural biotechnology.
Stem and Leaf Segmentation and Phenotypic Parameter Extraction of Tomato Seedlings Based on 3D Point
Authors: Liang Xuemei , Yu Wenbo , Qin Li , Wang Jianfeng , Jia Peng , Liu Qi , Lei Xiaoyu , Yang Minglai
Published: January 2025

High-throughput measurements of phenotypic parameters in plants generate substantial data, significantly improving agricultural production optimization and breeding efficiency. However, these measurements face several challenges, including environmental variability, sample heterogeneity, and complex data processing. This study presents a method applicable to stem and leaf segmentation and parameter extraction during the tomato seedling stage, utilizing three-dimensional point clouds. Focusing on tomato seedlings, data was captured using a depth camera to create point cloud models. The RANSAC, region-growing, and greedy projection triangulation algorithms were employed to extract phenotypic parameters such as plant height, stem thickness, leaf area, and leaf inclination angle. The results showed strong correlations, with coefficients of determination for manually measured parameters versus extracted 3D point cloud parameters being 0.920, 0.725, 0.905, and 0.917, respectively. The root-mean-square errors were 0.643, 0.168, 1.921, and 4.513, with absolute percentage errors of 3.804%, 5.052%, 5.509%, and 7.332%. These findings highlight a robust relationship between manual measurements and the extracted parameters, establishing a technical foundation for high-throughput automated phenotypic parameter extraction in tomato seedlings.
Simulation and Test of Key Decorticating Components of Spiral Ramie Decorticator
Authors: Zheng Wenlong , Ma Lan , Liu Jiajie , Yan Bo , Duan Yiping , Chen Sixun , Lyu Jiangnan , Xiang Wei
Published: January 2025

Ramie is a valuable natural fiber resource. The fabric made of ramie fiber has distinctive natural characteristics, and its products are widely favored in the international market. Because the cellulose fiber in ramie is closely adhered by a viscous material composed of pectin, hemicellulose, and lignin, mechanical stripping and processing is needed to obtain primary ramie fiber for downstream use. To address the production challenges posed by high labor intensity and the scarcity of small, direct-feeding ramie decorticators in hilly and mountainous regions, this study designed and optimized a spiral ramie decortication component that integrated functions of ramie stalk crushing, xylem removal, outer shell scraping, and phloem separating and throwing. The three-dimensional model of the ramie stripping component was crafted with SolidWorks software, and subsequent modal analysis and dynamic simulation studies were conducted using Abaqus software. The Box–Behnken experimental design method was used to construct a mathematical model describing the effects of the decorticating drum rotation speed and the decorticating gap on the fiber percentage of fresh stalk, and the optimal operating parameters were determined accordingly. The research findings indicated that the component’s initial ten natural frequencies span from 234.41 to 431.70 Hz, which do not overlap with the external excitation frequencies, thus ensuring that no resonance phenomenon occurs during the operation process, meeting the design requirements for the ramie decortication operation. Under dynamic load conditions, the ramie decorticator can efficiently perform the task of ramie fiber decortication, and the stress and strain experienced by the device meet the established design specifications; by optimizing operating parameters, the optimal operating conditions were determined to be the speed of feeding and crushing parts (SFCP) of 100 r/min, the speed of separating and throwing parts (SSTP) of 400 r/min, the gap of feeding and crushing parts (GFCP) of 8 mm, and the gap of separating and throwing parts (GSTP) of 0 mm. Experimental results indicated that under this optimal parameter combination, the fiber percentage of fresh stalk of the spiral ramie decorticator can reach 5.03%, with a relative error of less than 3% compared to the theoretical model prediction value, thus confirming the accuracy of the model prediction. This study establishes a robust technical basis for the development of a convenient decortication technology for ramie fibers. However, this technique is more suitable for small growers, especially in hilly areas, to achieve large-scale applications, schemes must be reevaluated based on production efficiency.
Effects of Grazing Intensity on Microbial Diversity at Different Soil Depths in Desert Steppe Soils
Authors: Wang Yuxin , Ju Xin , Wu Qian , Han Guodong
Published: January 2025

This study examines the influence of grazing intensity on soil microbial communities in a desert steppe ecosystem. Soil samples were collected from three depths (0–10 cm, 10–20 cm, and 20–30 cm) under varying grazing intensities: control (CK), light (LG), moderate (MG), and heavy grazing (HG). Key soil physicochemical properties and plant characteristics were analyzed alongside microbial diversity and community composition, which were assessed by identifying amplicon sequence variants and by conducting linear discriminant analysis effect size. The results showed that grazing intensity significantly impacted soil moisture, organic carbon, total nitrogen, and phosphorus levels, with a notable decrease in plant cover and microbial diversity under heavy grazing. CK and LG treatments supported higher microbial diversity, especially in surface layers, while heavy grazing was associated with a shift in community composition toward stress-tolerant taxa like Acidobacteriota and Blastocatella. Non-metric multidimensional scaling analysis revealed differences in microbial community structure between soil depths, with the effects of grazing diminishing with depth. These findings highlight the critical role of sustainable grazing practices in maintaining soil health and microbial diversity, with implications for the long-term resilience of desert steppe ecosystems.
Uncovering Patterns and Trends in Big Data-Driven Research Through Text Mining of NSF Award Synopses
Authors: King Arielle , Mostafa Sayed A.
Published: January 2025

The rapid expansion of big data has transformed research practices across disciplines, yet disparities exist in its adoption among U.S. institutions of higher education. This study examines trends in NSF-funded big data-driven research across research domains, institutional classifications, and directorates. Using a quantitative approach and natural language processing (NLP) techniques, we analyzed NSF awards from 2006 to 2022, focusing on seven NSF research areas: Biological Sciences, Computer and Information Science and Engineering, Engineering, Geosciences, Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Social, Behavioral and Economic Sciences, and STEM Education (formally known as Education and Human Resources). Findings indicate a significant increase in big data-related awards over time, with CISE (Computer and Information Science and Engineering) leading in funding. Machine learning and artificial intelligence are dominant themes across all institutions’ classifications. Results show that R1 and non-minority-serving institutions receive the majority of big data-driven research funding, though HBCUs have seen recent growth due to national diversity initiatives. Topic modeling reveals key subdomains such as cybersecurity and bioinformatics benefiting from big data, while areas like Biological Sciences and Social Sciences engage less with these methods. These findings suggest the need for broader support and funding to foster equitable adoption of big data methods across institutions and disciplines.
Early Weaning Impairs the Growth Performance of Hu Lambs Through Damaging Intestinal Morphology and Disrupting Serum Metabolite Homeostasis
Authors: Jiang Haoyun , Wang Haibo , Jia Haobin , Liu Yuhang , Pan Yue , Zhong Xiaojun , Huo Junhong , Zhan Jinshun
Published: January 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the effect of early weaning (EW) on the growth performance, gastrointestinal development, serum parameters, and metabolomics of Hu sheep lambs. Twenty-four male Hu lambs were initially ewe-reared. A total of 12 lambs were weaned at 30 d of age (D30) as the EW group, and the remaining 12 lambs were weaned at 45 d of age (D45) as the control (CON) group. Serum samples were collected from six lambs per treatment on D30, D33, D36, and D45, and the lambs were slaughtered on D45 to collect the rumen and small intestine. The results showed that, compared with the CON group, the average daily gain (ADG), final body weight (p < 0.001), as well as average daily feed intake (ADFI) of lambs in the EW group significantly decreased in the first (p = 0.004) and second (p = 0.013) 5 days of treatment. Additionally, EW increased the ruminal weight and papillae length but reduced the duodenal villus height on D45 (p < 0.05). As for the serum parameters, the concentrations of glucose on D33, D36, and D45 (p < 0.001), and the IL-6 content on D45 (p = 0.018) were observed to be lower, while the levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA) (p = 0.027), IgG (p = 0.035), and IgM (p = 0.002) on the four ages were all higher in the EW group than those in CON group. Additionally, both treatment and age interactively affected the levels of GLU (p = 0.001), TP (p = 0.041), and IL-6 (p = 0.016). Additionally, the serum metabolomics analysis on D45 showed that the contents of 5-HT and arachidonic acid were increased, while L-phenylalanine, L-tyrosine, and L-glutamic acid were reduced in the EW group (p < 0.05). These differential metabolites were enriched in the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways, including inflammatory mediator regulation, protein digestion and absorption, and phenylalanine and tyrosine biosynthesis. The current results identify that EW at D30 decreased the growth performance (ADG and ADFI) of Hu lambs within two weeks post-weaning, which might be associated with impaired duodenal morphology and glucose metabolism. The serum metabolomics analysis revealed that EW altered the concentrations of 5-HT, phenylalanine, tyrosine, and arachidonic acid, which could serve as potential regulatory targets for modulating the health of EW Hu lambs.