bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Karakterisasi sifat kuantitatif dan sifat kualitatif dua puluh satu genotipe melon (Cucumis melo L.)
Authors: Kuhesa Rova , Parwito Parwito , Sari Dia Novita
Published: January 2025

Dalam tiga tahun terakhir produksi melon mengalami penurunan. Oleh sebab itu, perlu dilakukan peningkatan produksi dengan melakukan pengembangan varietas unggul berdaya hasil tinggi. Karakterisasi merupakan langkah awal dalam perakitan varietas tanaman. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui karakteristik 21 genotipe buah melon. Penelitian telah dilakukan pada Januari hingga Maret 2024. Penelitian dilakukan di kebun percobaan di Desa Lubuk Saung Kabupaten Bengkulu Utara Provinsi Bengkulu. Penelitian menggunakan rancangan kelompok lengkap teracak (RKLT) faktor tunggul dan diulang sebanyak tiga kali. Faktor yang digunakan adalah 21 genotipe melon. Hasil penelitian menujukkan bahwa analisis cluster dengan kemiripian 33,33 menghasilkan 5 kelompok melon dan G15 adalah genotipe paling berbeda diantara genotipe lainnya. Ukuran daun sedang dan warna daun hijau sedang adalah ukuran dan warna paling dominan. Panjang cuping daun kategori sedang dan perkembangan cuping daun kategori lemah adalah yang paling dominan. Bentuk dasar buah berbentuk bulat adalah bentuk dasar buah yang paling banyak. Kulit buah sebelum matang paling banyak adalah berwarna hijau dan warna daging buah saat matang paling banyak adalah warna putih. Buah tidak memiliki alur adalah paling dominan dan keriputan permukaan buah kategori sangat lemah adalah paling dominan.
Pengembangan Bahan Ajar Berbasis Komik Pada Materi Hidrokarbon
Authors: Pasaribu Yenni Pintauli , Siregar Lamtiar Ferawaty , Dakunya Tresia Yumilda Somi
Published: January 2025

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui validitas bahan ajar berbasis komik pada materi  hidrokarbon. Jenis penelitian ini adalah penelitian R&D dengan menggunakan model ADDIE. Subjek penelitian ini adalah peserta didik kelas XI IPA SMA Negeri 1 Tanah Miring. Instrumen yang digunakan dalam pengumpulan data adalah angket. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa pengembangan modul berbasis komik pada materi senyawa hidrokarbon dinyatakan valid dan praktis ditinjau dari aspek validitas, hasil validasi materi sebesar 100% dengan kategori sangat valid, validasi media sebesar 92% dengan kategori sangat valid dan angket peserta didik sebesar 86% dengan kategori sangat valid. Berdasarkan hasil penelitian, modul ajar berbasis komik sebagai bahan ajar materi senyawa hidrokarbon dinyatakan valid  untuk digunakan sebagai bahan ajar materi senyawa hidrokarbon.
Mengembangkan Karakter Tanggung Jawab dan Kemampuan Akademik Mahasiswa Melalui Pendekatan Pembelajaran Discovery Learning
Authors: Panjaitan Muktar , Siagian Asister Fernando , Purba Yunika Lamtiur
Published: January 2025

This research aims to find out how students' character of responsibility and academic abilities develop after implementing the discovery learning learning approach. The subjects of this research were 40 students at HKBP Nommensen Pematangsiantar Elementary School Teacher Education University. This type of research is development research, namely research & development (R & D) based on the procedural model developed by Borg and Gall. Research data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. The data collection techniques are tests and observations. Data were analyzed descriptively and using inferential statistics. The research results show that: (1) The quality of the Learning Event Unit is good; (2) The quality of the Student Activity Sheet is good; (3) The quality of the Learning Results Test is very good; (4) The quality of the Student Responsibility Level Assessment Sheet is good; (5) The quality of the Learning Implementation Observation Sheet is good; (6) The quality of the Activity Observation Sheet is good. It was concluded that students' responsible character and students' academic abilities improved after using the discovery learning learning approach.
Peningkatan Efisiensi Operasional Commuter Line Jogja-Solo Melalui Perbaikan Jadwal
Authors: Putri Ananda Agneshia , Oktavianto Alfin , Pamursari Nurmagita , Sari Nurwanda
Published: January 2025

Kereta Rel Listrik (KRL) adalah layanan kereta yang melayani rute pendek dalam atau antar kota, terutama untuk penumpang harian di wilayah perkotaan. Diluncurkan pada 10 Februari 2021 menggantikan KRD Prameks, KRL Jogja-Solo bertujuan meningkatkan efisiensi perjalanan antarkota. Jumlah penumpang KRL Jogja-Solo terus meningkat, berdasarkan data terbaru PT KAI Commuter Line, dengan angka penumpang per bulan pada tahun 2023 menunjukkan peningkatan yang signifikan. Sebagai contoh, pada Agustus terdapat 512.547 penumpang, sementara pada Desember meningkat menjadi 709.634 penumpang. Peningkatan ini menciptakan tekanan pada kapasitas angkut yang ada. Penelitian ini bertujuan mengkaji tantangan yang dihadapi oleh KRL Jogja-Solo dalam mengakomodasi peningkatan jumlah penumpang dan mencari solusi untuk memenuhi permintaan yang terus meningkat. Penelitian ini fokus pada peningkatan efisiensi operasional KRL Jogja-Solo melalui perbaikan jadwal, mengkaji volume penumpang, kapasitas lintas, dan proyeksi penumpang periode 2024-2033. Metode Scott digunakan untuk analisis kapasitas lintas dan rumus pertumbuhan geometri untuk proyeksi penumpang, dengan solusi optimal berdasarkan skenario optimis, moderat, dan pesimis. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa penambahan empat perjalanan sore dan skema skip-stop adalah solusi terbaik dalam skenario optimis, skema skip-stop tanpa tambahan perjalanan dalam skenario moderat, dan perbaikan jadwal eksisting dalam skenario pesimis. Penelitian ini menekankan pentingnya perencanaan jangka panjang dan evaluasi rutin untuk memastikan kelancaran dan kenyamanan layanan KRL Jogja-Solo.
Endothelial Dysfunction in the Tubule Area Accelerates the Progression of Early Diabetic Kidney Disease
Authors: Zeng W , Ying D , Chen B , Wang P
Published: January 2025

Diabetic kidney disease (DKD) is the leading cause of end-stage renal disease. Therefore, understanding the molecular regulatory mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of DKD is imperative. In this study, we aimed to explore the molecular mechanisms of tubule region endothelial dysfunction in early DKD. Early-stage DKD model was established in 16-week-old female db/db mice for 16 weeks. Body weight, glucose level, and urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio (UACR) were measured. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) and periodic acid-Schiff (PAS) staining were performed to evaluate pathological lesions. RNA sequencing data of the kidneys and integrated publicly available single-cell and spatial transcriptome datasets were used to investigate the mechanism of endothelial dysfunction. There was a significant increase in body weight (p = 0.001), glucose levels (p=0.0008), and UACR (p=0.006) in db/db mice compared with db/m mice. H&E and PAS staining showed that vacuolar lesions and protein casts of tubules were the major histopathological changes observed in early-stage DKD mice. The apoptotic pathway in endothelial cells was notably activated in DKD, and Thbs1 was identified as the central gene involved in this apoptotic process. Deconvolution of the cell composition in the RNA sequencing data showed a decrease in the proportion of endothelial cells in the DKD mice. Further analysis of the activity and regulatory network of transcription factors showed that Creb1 was activated in both mouse and human early-stage DKD, suggesting that Creb1 activation may be involved in early kidney injury. The endothelial cell apoptotic pathway is activated in DKD, and the proportion of endothelial cells was reduced in the DKD mice, which is significantly associated with Thbs1.
Type 2 Diabetes, Obesity and Their Relation to the Risks of Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Grimmichová T , Kukliková V , Bulanová B , Pačesová P , Václavíková E , Moravcová J , Novák Z , Mastnikova K , Vaňková M
Published: January 2025

Objectiveː patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and obesity are generally known to have increased risk of various types of cancer, though studies addressing associations between T2DM/obesity and thyroid cancer are inconclusive. The aim of our study was to evaluate the risk of thyroid cancer focusing on diabetic patients under conditions of euthyroid status. A retrospective study in 184 patients was performed. Three cohorts were established according to tumor histology: malignant (M), benign (B) and low-risk carcinoma (MB). Fisher’s exact test and Kruskal-Wallis one-way ANOVA of ranks were used for statistical analysis. The M (39.1 %), B (57.6 %) and MB (3.3 %) cohorts had comparable age (p=0.4), BMI (p=0.452), glycaemia (p=0.834), Hb1AC (p=0.157) and HOMA-IR (p=0.235). T2DM patients had larger thyroid gland volumes (28.8 vs 17.6 mL;p=0.001) compared to the cohort with normal glucose tolerance. Compared to women, men had more frequently present distal metastases (p=0.017), minimally invasive disease (p=0.027), more advanced staging (p=0.01) and positive pathogenic mutations in the TERT gene (p=0.009);these results were also significant for the diabetic male cohort (p=0.026). Type 2 diabetes and obesity are not risk factors for thyroid cancer, but a subgroup of males seems to have thyroid cancers of poorer prognosis. In general, diabetic patients with insulin resistance and hyperinsulinemia are also prone to have a goiter.
All the Feels: Developing Empathy in Political Science Courses
Authors: Kaufman Chelsea , Brown Colin
Published: January 2025

In recent years, the discipline of political science has expressed interest in the concept of empathy and its role in politics. Some scholars argue that empathy is necessary to cultivate in a democratic society as it helps us to understand and identify with others; others argue that this is not necessary, or is even counterproductive to this goal, due to the negative aspects of empathy. This leads to the question of whether empathy can - or should - be cultivated in our political science classrooms? To answer this question, we conducted studies in general education courses in order to gauge students’ levels of global empathy and determine whether it was being successfully taught, or if we were inadvertently teaching the “dark sides” of empathy. Evidence from a survey of the students and review of their assignments demonstrates some evidence that their global empathy grew as a result of the course.
Systematic review: characteristics of myocarditis followed by fixed drug eruption and dry eye syndrome in patients who have been vaccinated with monkeypox in children and adults
Authors: Mohamad Javier R. , Prijanto Stephanie Angela , Yora Vallexa Septina , Yuliana Eka Pratiwi Desak Gede , Lilhawa Ditsi Errini Sabilla , Adelia Bella , Tansuri Verika Christabela , Wijaya Hendry , Caecarma Georaldhy Yussufy , Damayanti Intan Trikumala , Ramadhanti Anisa , Rahmaputri Atika , Albab Chabib Fachry , Ferdian Afif , Farabi Fatih , Ayu Fadila Risang , Ika Regina Maharani Ni Putu , Arifin Andika Prasetyo , Herwanto Eko Setyo , A Saidah Rahmat , Arviana Safira Dita , Lathifah Syifa Nur , Yulinar Nanda Rizki , Safitri Laksmitha Saktiono , Adnani Basyar , Fazrian Danu M. Rizki , Naomi Natasya , Deria Dayu Dwi , Syifa Aulia , Andana Panca , Prasetya Adrian , Agfata Fachira Rachel , Margaretha Magistra Cylvia , Indrasto Subandono Bambang , Sukirman  , Rachmanto  , Nufus Hayatun , Chandrawati Pertiwi Febriana , Prasetyo Aan Dwi , Sutanto Lucky , Sander Moch Aleq
Published: January 2025

Background

The Monkeypox Virus (MPOX) has caused a surge in viral infections, leading to the WHO recognizing it as a public health emergency of international concern. MPOX infection shares clinical similarities with smallpox but can cause complications like myocarditis, anorectal pain, ocular lesions, kidney damage, or soft tissue superinfection. The study aims to understand the characteristics of myocarditis, fixed drug eruption, and dry eye syndrome in Monkeypox patients.

Methods

This review was conducted based on PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses), and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions. The data was obtained from Scopus and international journal databases by conducting combined keyword searches restricted to English-language publications.

Result

The study examined 25 cases of Monkeypox, primarily involving males aged 32.9 years and experiencing chest pain. The prognosis was generally good, with no reported death. Risk factors for infection include sexual activity, STD diagnosis, sexual encounters, and workplace exposure to orthopoxviruses. Most cases were male and involved chest pain. Myocarditis, an inflammation in the myocardium, can cause dilated cardiomyopathy, acute arrhythmia, and heart failure. The pathophysiology of myocarditis in Monkeypox patients is not yet determined due to rarity of cases.

Conclusion

MPOX infection presents unique complications like myocarditis, necessitating research for vaccines, antiviral drugs, and infection prevention measures. Early screening for chest pain and investigating MPXV infection's pathogenesis and clinical features are crucial for differential diagnosis during outbreaks. This systematic review can determine MPOX infection outcomes and prepare appropriate treatment for patients with complications.
The size-fractionated composition of particulate biogenic silica and its ecological significance in the Changjiang Estuary area
Authors: Liu Xizhen , Wang Bin , Chen Siyang , Jin Haiyan , Zhuang Yanpei , Jiang Zhibing , Li Hongliang , Chen Jianfang
Published: January 2025

The concentrations and distributions of particulate biogenic silica (PBSi) and its size-fractionated composition (>20 μm, 0.8–20 μm) of the Changjiang Estuary and its adjacent area were investigated during the summer of 2011. PBSi, primarily produced by diatoms in the surface waters of oceans, was examined for correlations with hydrographic conditions, nutrients, particulate organic carbon, and dissolved oxygen. The distribution of PBSi showed distinct patterns: high levels in nearshore, but relatively low further offshore; low concentrations in the surface layer, whereas relatively high concentrations in the bottom layer. Large-sized PBSi (>20 μm) prevailed in the surface layer, whereas small-sized PBSi (0.8–20 μm) dominated in the bottom layer. Temperature and nutrients were crucial factors controlling the grain size structure and distribution of PBSi. Further, we observed that the distinct zones of high PBSi values in the surface waters were affected by the Changjiang freshwater flushing, and those in the bottom waters were affected by the Yellow Sea Cold Water masses. Moreover, in the area where >20-μm PBSi prevailed, the silicate-to-nitrate ratio was less than 1 at most sampling stations, rendering silicate the limiting nutrient in this area. The PBSi/particulate organic carbon values in the surface waters of the study area ranged from 0.01 to 0.3. Areas exhibiting values exceeding 0.13 primarily clustered in nearshore waters, which was characterized by a dominance of large-sized (>20 μm) PBSi. The nearshore benthic waters exhibited anoxic conditions, where diatoms predominantly comprised the phytoplankton biomass and organic matter featured marine phytoplankton. Consequently, the proliferation of diatoms (siliceous phytoplankton) in the midupper water significantly contributed to the hypoxic conditions at the bottom, as diatoms underwent dissolution during sedimentation, leading to oxygen depletion.
AhR governs lipid metabolism: the role of gut microbiota
Authors: Zheng Wanru , Liu Mengkuan , Lv Xinyu , He Cuimei , Yin Jie , Ma Jie
Published: January 2025

The Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor (AhR) is widely present in mammalian bodies, showing high affinity for various exogenous substances such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and coumarin. Under physiological conditions, AhR mainly participates in regulating the body’s immune response, cell proliferation, and apoptosis among a series of processes. Recent studies have revealed a close connection between AhR and lipid metabolism. The gut microbiota plays a significant role in regulating host lipid metabolism. Growing evidence suggests an inseparable link between gut microbiota and AhR signaling. This review summarizes the relationship between AhR and lipid metabolism disorders, as well as the interaction between gut microbiota and AhR, exploring how this interaction modulates host lipid metabolism.
Efficient degradation of neomycin by Bacillus velezensis and Cupriavidus basilensis isolated from mangrove soil and pharmaceutical wastewater
Authors: Yang Qian , Huang Wenzhuan , Yan Xue , Ding Qiang , Liu Jiaxin , Cheng Bo , Duan Tao
Published: January 2025

Neomycin, an aminoglycoside antibiotic, is widely utilized for veterinary medicine in disease prevention. Biodegradation is a key pathway for the removal of neomycin from the environment. To date, only the white-rot fungus Trametes versicolor and the ericoid mycorrhizal fungus Rhizoscyphus ericae have been documented to efficiently degrade neomycin. However, no bacterial species with neomycin-degrading capabilities have been reported, underscoring a significant gap in microbial research related to neomycin remediation. In this study, Cupriavidus basilensis and Bacillus velezensis were isolated from pharmaceutical wastewater and neomycin-free mangrove soil through enrichment culture and gradual acclimatization, respectively. These isolates demonstrated neomycin degradation rates of 46.4 and 37.6% in 96 h with 100 mg·L−1 neomycin as the sole carbon source. Cupriavidus basilensis achieved a degradation rate of 50.83% with ammonium sulfate supplementation, while Bacillus velezensis exhibited a superior degradation efficiency of 58.44% with soluble starch. Our findings offer valuable insights into the microbial degradation of neomycin. Two neomycin-degrading bacteria were isolated for the first time. Both species degraded neomycin as the sole carbon source or under co-metabolic conditions within 4 days. Microorganisms from neomycin-free environments adapted to neomycin stress and outperformed those from contaminated sources. This challenges the assumption that antibiotic-degrading microorganisms mainly originate from polluted environments. The findings expand the diversity of known neomycin-degrading microorganisms and demonstrate their potential for removing refractory neomycin from pharmaceutical wastewater.
The relationship between body appreciation and weight-related health behaviors among Chinese adolescents
Authors: Zhong Yuyuan , Chen Ying , Wang Meng , Lu Bian , Shen Ting , Hu Jing , Jiang Fengyang , Wang Hongmei
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Research on body appreciation has flourished globally in recent years. College students and adults, rather than adolescents have been mainly focused in China. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the current status of body appreciation and weight-related health behaviors among Chinese adolescents, and elucidate their multifaceted relationships.

Methods

A total of 487 students from two junior high schools were selected through stratified cluster sampling for this cross-sectional study conducted in Hangzhou city, China. Data were collected by using the questionnaire including the Body Appreciation Scale-2 (BAS-2), the Physical Activity Questionnaire for Adolescents (PAQ-A), and the self-designed Food Frequency Questions.

Results

The study showed current status of body appreciation among Chinese adolescents, with a majority categorized as physically inactive and having unhealthy dietary behaviors, leading to abnormal weight. Notably, this study provided novel evidence linking body appreciation with positive weight-related behavioral outcomes in both physical activity and dietary behaviors (such as sufficient fruit and vegetable consumption and reduced fried food intake) among Chinese adolescents. Besides, this study also revealed the impact of gender, mother's education, and household income on weight-related health behaviors among adolescents.

Discussion

This study emphasized the significant relationships between body appreciation and weight-related health behaviors among Chinese adolescents. These findings present empirical evidence for the development of intervention programs aimed at fostering body appreciation and promoting weight-related health behaviors in adolescents.
Discrimination of Anti-Donor Response in Allogeneic Transplantation Using an Alloreactive T-Cell Detection Assay
Authors: Arata Ryosuke , Tanimine Naoki , Seidakhmetov Akhmet , Ide Kentaro , Tanaka Yuka , Ohdan Hideki
Published: January 2025

Understanding donor-reactive T-cell behavior post-transplantation is challenging owing to the rarity and diversity of these cells. Here, we aimed to evaluate the relevance of an assay for rapidly detecting alloreactive T cells in a mouse transplantation model. After 18 h of one-way mixed lymphocyte reaction (MLR) culture with pre-activated donor-derived stimulators, CD4+ and CD8+ donor-reactive T cells were identified by CD154 and CD137 expression, respectively. Using full MHC mismatched mouse skin transplant models, we observed an increased donor-reactive T-cell proportion by direct presentation with elevated interferon gamma and granzyme B production 7 days post-transplantation, before graft rejection. Immunosuppression with CTLA-4 IgG and anti-CD154 antibody varied depending on donor-recipient strain combinations. On day 7, donor-reactive CD8+ T-cell proportions were lower in the tolerance model (BALB/c to C3H/HeJ) than in the rejection model (BALB/c to C57BL/6); conventional proliferation readout after 4 days of MLR could not distinguish these responses. Overall, although the conventional readout for evaluating T-cell proliferation following an MLR quantifies the precursor frequency of alloreactive T cells, the assay reported herein assesses T-cell activation markers after a short-term MLR to characterize immediate immune status. These findings offer a promising tool to elucidate immune responses post-transplantation.
Parameter Calibration and Experimental Verification of the Discrete Element Model of the Edible Sunflower Seed
Authors: Zhu Xuefeng , Xu Yang , Han Changjie , Yang Binning , Luo Yan , Qiu Shilong , Huang Xiaona , Mao Hanping
Published: January 2025

A discrete element model of the edible sunflower seed was constructed, addressing the lack of an accurate model for edible sunflower seeds in the simulation process of seeding, cleaning, and transportation, and it was calibrated and verified through actual and simulation tests. Taking the edible sunflower seed as the research object, the range of its simulation parameter values was preliminarily determined through actual tests. Using the seed repose angle as the test index, the simulation parameters of the seed were calibrated through the Plackett—Burman test, the steepest climb test, and the Box–Behnken test. The suspension velocity of the seed model was determined by the Fluent–EDEM coupling simulation test, and the reliability of the discrete element model of the edible sunflower seed was verified. The simulated test results showed that the seed repose angle obtained by the optimization test was 35.823°, which exhibited a relative error of 0.103% in comparison to the average values obtained from the actual test. The simulated suspension velocity of the seed was 6.98 m/s. with a deviation of 0.55 m/s from the average suspension velocity obtained through the actual test. The discrete element model of the edible sunflower seed is accurate and reliable, offering guidance for improving the design of machinery used for seeding and harvesting edible sunflowers.
Paddy–Upland Rotation Improves Rice Growth and Reduces Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Winter Paddy Fields
Authors: Yin Xuewei , Li Qiang , Zhang Xiaochun , Wang Zifang , Li Qinhu , Wei Ling , Huang Tao , Gao Ming
Published: January 2025

From May 2019 to May 2022, a field experiment was conducted to clarify the effects of paddy–upland rotations on rice yield and greenhouse gas emissions in winter paddy fields. Four types of rotation pattern, rice–oilseed rape, rice–radish, rice–faba bean, and rice–fallow (flooded), were investigated and the N2O, CH4, and CO2 emissions in situ and rice yield were determined. The results showed that the paddy–upland rotation mode required fertilization during the winter cropping season. Compared with the rice–fallow (flooded) mode, the flux rate and annual cumulative emissions of N2O were significantly higher in the paddy–upland rotation modes. The rice–radish mode had the highest flux rate and annual cumulative emissions of N2O. When the soil in each paddy–upland rotation mode was exposed to air in winter, the soil redox potential increased and reducing substances were oxidized. Compared with the rice–fallow (flooded) mode, the flux rate and annual cumulative emissions of CH4 significantly decreased in the paddy–upland rotation modes, with the rice–radish mode producing the lowest flux rate and annual cumulative emissions of CH4. Fertilization and crop planting were conducted in winter, and the soil moisture was low. Compared with the rice–fallow (flooded) mode, the flux rate of CO2 of the paddy–upland rotation modes increased significantly. The flux rate of CO2 in the rice–oilseed rape mode was the highest. Furthermore, the N2O and CH4 emissions produced during the rice season and annually were significantly positively correlated with those in the winter season, indicating that the winter season had a significant effect on greenhouse gas emissions from winter paddy fields. Because of the significantly higher annual cumulative emissions of CH4 and the significantly lower rice yield in the rice–fallow (flooded) mode than in the paddy–upland rotation modes, this mode’s global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) during the rice season are significantly higher than those of the paddy–upland rotation modes.
Myocardial DYRK1B Expression Is Increased in Patients with Impaired Cardiac Contractility and Sleep-Disordered Breathing
Authors: Bayram Fatma , Hegner Philipp , Lauerer Anna-Maria , Schildt Sönke , Wermers Dominik , Baier Maria Johanna , Mustroph Julian , Tafelmeier Maria , Provaznik Zdenek , Schmid Christof , Maier Lars Siegfried , Wagner Stefan , Arzt Michael , Lebek Simon
Published: January 2025

Heart failure and cardiovascular disease represent a significant burden on healthcare systems worldwide. Recent evidence associates an increased expression of the dual-specificity tyrosine phosphorylation-regulated kinase 1B (DYRK1B) with an impaired cardiac function in mice. However, there remains a paucity of data on myocardial DYRK1B expression in patients with cardiovascular disease in the context of other comorbidities. In our study, we examined DYRK1B mRNA expression in human right atrial appendage biopsies from 159 patients undergoing elective coronary artery bypass surgery. Each patient was tested for sleep-disordered breathing the night prior to surgery. In this large representative study cohort with cardiovascular high-risk patients, we found that an impaired cardiac function as well as sleep-disordered breathing (SDB), including various oxidative stress parameters, were associated with an increased myocardial DYRK1B expression. A multivariate regression analysis revealed left ventricular ejection fraction and the presence of SDB as significant predictors of the myocardial DYRK1B expression independent of other clinical covariates. Based on these findings, DYRK1B represents a promising molecular target in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction as well in patients with sleep-disordered breathing.
Numerical Evaluation of Ultrasonic Detection of Solid Occlusions in CSP Molten Salt Piping
Authors: Dragonetti Raffaele , Romano Rosario Aniello , Di Giulio Elio
Published: January 2025

This work presents a numerical evaluation of the applicability of non-invasive ultrasonic techniques for detecting solid inclusions in concentrated solar power (CSP) systems using molten salts. Under stagnant conditions, molten salts, such as the NaNO3–KNO3 mixture, solidify when the temperature drops below approximately 240 °C at ambient pressure. The study was conducted using finite element method (FEM) simulations in the time domain to model ultrasonic wave propagation and interaction with the solidified inclusions. Numerical analyses revealed that the energy of ultrasonic signals transmitted from the source and captured by the receiver can be used to quantify the energy reflected and scattered by solid inclusions and to statistically determine their spatial distribution within the piping. The study highlights the potential of detecting solid occlusions through statistical analysis of ultrasonic signals. Such an approach would enable decision making for trigger heating strategies to re-melt the solidified inclusions by raising the system’s temperature. This approach contrasts with traditional temperature-based control, which fails to quantify the degree of solidification and may result in frequent, energy-intensive heating whenever the temperature drops below the threshold. The proposed ultrasonic-based detection method thus offers a more energy-efficient and precise solution for managing solidification in CSP molten salt piping.
Evaluation of the Accessibility to Urban Mobility Services with High Spatial Resolution—Case Study: Valencia (Spain)
Authors: Bosch-Checa Clara , Lorenzo-Sáez Edgar , Haza Maria Joaquina Porres de la , Lerma-Arce Victoria , Coll-Aliaga Eloina
Published: January 2025

This paper aims to evaluate the accessibility to urban mobility services with high spatial resolution. The methodology identifies the percentage of the population living within walking distance of the different public transport and shared mobility systems. The motivation for this study stems from the importance of understanding and improving sustainable urban mobility, as well as the need to evaluate the effectiveness of transportation infrastructure. The study involved creating buffers from each station following the road network according to urban design to identify areas within a 5-min walk, then calculating the affected population by age range within these zones to ensure equity. This method determined the percentage of the population with access to available mobility services: bike renting, urban bus, intercity bus, metro, taxi, tram and train. The application of the methodology to the Valencia case study underscores the overall strong accessibility of mobility services. The main results indicate access to mobility services for 99.98% of the total population of the city. The accessibility percentages for specific mobility services vary, with urban bus and bike renting showing high accessibility, while train and tram services exhibit lower accessibility rates. Additionally, the study extends its assessment to the peri-urban area, revealing a global access percentage of 46.33%. In conclusion, this study allows us to identify areas with lower accessibility and help to improve the sustainability of urban mobility. These findings can aid urban planners and policymakers by providing valuable insights into the city’s mobility network’s strengths and areas for improvement.
Optimization of Rate of Penetration and Mechanical Specific Energy Using Response Surface Methodology and Multi-Objective Optimization
Authors: Mantegazini Diunay Zuliani , Nascimento Andreas , Mathias Mauro Hugo , Romero Guzman Oldrich Joel , Reich Matthias
Published: January 2025

Optimizing the drilling process is critical for the exploration of natural resources. However, there are several mechanic parameters that continuously interact with formation properties, hindering the optimization process. Rate of penetration (ROP) and mechanical specific energy (MSE) are considered two key performance indicators that allow the identification of ideal conditions to enhance the drilling process. Thus, the goal of this research was to analyze field data from pre-salt layer operations, using a 2D analysis of parameters as a function of depth, response surface methodology (RSM), and multi-objective optimization. The results show that the RSM method and multi-objective optimization provide better results when compared with 2D analysis of parameters as a function of depth. The RSM method can be used as a tool to analyze the effects of the independent drilling mechanical parameters (WOB, RPM, FLOW, and TOR) on the response variables (ROP and MSE) with a 95% confidence level. Through multi-objective optimization, it was possible to concomitantly achieve an ROP of approximately 22 ft/h and MSE of nearly 11 kpsi using the values of WOB, RPM, FLOW, and TOR of about 11 klb, 109 rev/min, 803 gpm, and 3 klb-ft, respectively. Using high WOB values, i.e., from the mean value up to the maximum value of approximately 43 klb, reflects a low ROP and most likely indicates an operation beyond the foundering point. High FLOW promotes a more efficient hole cleaning and higher rates of cuttings transport, thus preventing eventual in situ drill-bit sticking. Flow adjustment also ensures an adequate balance of dynamic bottom hole pressure, in addition to controlling the force impact force of the drilling fluid in contact with the rock being drilled, expressing importance in terms of efficiency and rock penetration. Finally, it is important to mention that the results of this research are not only applicable to hydrocarbon exploration but also to geothermal and natural hydrogen exploration. Values analyzed and presented with decimal precision should be logically focused as integers when in industrial application.
Simplified Machine Learning Model as an Intelligent Support for Safe Urban Cycling
Authors: Hernández-Herrera Alejandro , Rubio-Espino Elsa , Álvarez-Vargas Rogelio , Ponce-Ponce Victor H.
Published: January 2025

Urban cycling is a sustainable mode of transportation in large cities, and it offers many advantages. It is an eco-friendly means of transport that is accessible to the population and easy to use. Additionally, it is more economical than other means of transportation. Urban cycling is beneficial for physical health and mental well-being. Achieving sustainable mobility and the evolution towards smart cities demands a comprehensive analysis of all the essential aspects that enable their inclusion. Road safety is particularly important, which must be prioritized to ensure safe transportation and reduce the incidence of road accidents. In order to help reduce the number of accidents that urban cyclists are involved in, this work proposes an alternative solution in the form of an intelligent computational assistant that utilizes simplified machine learning (SML) to detect potential risks of unexpected collisions. This technological approach serves as a helpful alternative to the current problem. Through our methodology, we were able to identify the problem involved in the research, design, and development of the solution proposal; collect and analyze data; and obtain preliminary results. These results experimentally demonstrate how the proposed model outperforms most state-of-the-art models that use a metric learning layer for small image sets.
Kinematic Characteristics of the Non-Throwing Arm During the Completion Phase of the Glide Shot Put in Elite Female Athletes: A Case Study
Authors: Jiao Jie , Yang Tianzhi , Ma Yue , Wang Houjie , Chen Jing , Xu Hongqi , Yang Guang
Published: January 2025

Background: This study analyzes the biomechanical contributions of the non-throwing arm during the completion phase of the glide shot put technique, focusing on its roles in performance optimization. Methods: Data from a Chinese elite female shot-putter were collected during a national championship, with three-dimensional kinematic analyses and Spearman correlation to assess joint displacement, velocity, and angular changes. Results: Distal joints of the non-throwing arm exhibited greater displacement but lower peak velocity than proximal joints. Angular changes showed a flexion trend in the elbow and shoulder, with brief extension phases in the elbow. During the completion phase, the shoulder velocity of the non-throwing arm positively correlated with shot put velocity (rs = 0.72, p < 0.05) but negatively correlated with the velocity of the elbow (rs = −0.46, p < 0.05), wrist (rs = −0.41, p < 0.05), and center of mass (rs = −0.66, p < 0.05). The elbow velocity positively correlated with shot put velocity (rs = 0.56, p < 0.05) but negatively correlated with velocities of the shoulder (rs = −0.59, p < 0.05), wrist (rs = −0.79, p < 0.05), and center of mass (rs = −0.91, p < 0.05). Wrist velocity exhibited similar correlations. Conclusions: These findings underscore the active role of the non-throwing arm in enhancing shot put performance by influencing the center of mass movement, rotational mechanics, and energy transfer, providing actionable guidance for elite training optimization.
PPARγ Expression in Human Spermatozoa and Its Relationship with Seminal F2-Isoprostanes and Resolvin D1 in the Presence of Varicocele and Urogenital Infections
Authors: Collodel Giulia , Moretti Elena , Marcucci Caterina , Liguori Laura , Marchini Daniela , Corsaro Roberta , Centini Gabriele , Signorini Cinzia
Published: January 2025

Peroxisome Proliferator-Activated Receptor Gamma (PPARγ) is a regulating agent in antioxidant response also involved in controlling inflammation. The impact of varicocele and urogenital infections on sperm PPARγ expression was studied. The PPARγ gene expression was investigated in spermatozoa of 26 normozoospermic men grouped according to their clinical conditions: normal semen parameters (N), normal semen parameters and varicocele (N + V), and normal semen parameters and urogenital infections (N + UI). Sperm PPARγ expression was correlated with F2-isoprostanes (F2-IsoPs), as markers of lipid peroxidation, and Resolvin D1 (RvD1), a pro-resolving mediator in inflammation. Sperm PPARγ expression was evaluated through comparative real-time PCR, and F2-IsoPs and RvD1 were quantified in the seminal plasma via GC/NCI-MS/MS and immunoassay, respectively. PPARγ expression correlates positively with sperm morphology and vitality and negatively with F2-IsoPs and RvD1. Sperm morphology positively correlates with vitality and negatively with F2-IsoP and RvD1 levels. Despite the normozoospermia in the three examined groups, sperm morphology and PPARγ expression were significantly reduced in N + V and N + UI groups compared to the N group. Additionally, F2-IsoP and RvD1 levels were elevated in N + V and N + UI patients. These data suggest that PPARγ expression is compromised by inflammation and lipoperoxidation, providing new insights to further explore new possibilities of targeted treatment of male infertility.
Cost-Effective Detection of SNPs and Structural Variations in Full-Length Genes of Wheat and Sunflower Using Multiplex PCR and Rapid Nanopore Kit
Authors: Polkhovskaya Ekaterina , Moskalev Evgeniy , Merkulov Pavel , Dudnikova Ksenia , Dudnikov Maxim , Gruzdev Ivan , Demurin Yakov , Soloviev Alexander , Kirov Ilya
Published: January 2025

The rapid identification of allele variants in target genes is crucial for accelerating marker-assisted selection (MAS) in plant breeding. Although current high-throughput genotyping methods are efficient in detecting known polymorphisms, they are limited when multiple variant sites are scattered along the gene. This study presents a target amplicon sequencing approach using Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT-TAS) to rapidly sequence full-length genes and identify allele variants in sunflower and wheat collections. This procedure combines multiplex PCR and a rapid sequencing kit, significantly reducing the time and cost compared to previous methods. The efficiency of the approach was demonstrated by sequencing four genes (Ahasl1, Ahasl2, Ahasl3, and FAD2) in 40 sunflower genotypes and three genes (Ppo, Wx, and Lox) in 30 wheat genotypes. The ONT-TAS revealed a complete picture of SNPs and InDels distributed over the individual alleles, enabling rapid (4.5 h for PCR and sequencing) characterization of the genetic diversity of the target genes in the germplasm collections. The results showed a significant diversity of the Ahasl1/Ahasl3 and Wx-A/Lox-B genes in the sunflower and wheat collections, respectively. This method offers a high-throughput, cost-effective (USD 3.4 per gene) solution for genotyping and identifying novel allele variants in plant breeding programs.
Higher Levels of Serum Leptin Are Linked with a Reduction in Gait Stability: A Sex-Based Association
Authors: Alfaqih Mahmoud A. , Ababneh Ebaa , Khader Yousef , Mhedat Khawla , Sater Mai
Published: January 2025

Gait stability prevents falls and injuries during physical activities. Muscle strength, aging, and co-existing chronic diseases are factors that affect gait stability. Leptin is an adipokine with pro-inflammatory properties. Several reports demonstrated an association between serum leptin and a reduction in muscle strength. Given the above relationships, we hypothesized that serum leptin could be associated with gait stability. To test this, 146 apparently healthy university students were recruited. Data collection involved anthropometric measurements, physical activity (PA) data, gait parameters, and serum leptin levels. A gait instability index was derived from the percentages of double support time and walking asymmetry (WA) collected from smartphones. Females demonstrated higher leptin levels and WA despite a lower body mass index (BMI). Lower PA levels were also observed among females. Leptin levels were negatively correlated with WA, step count, and vigorous PA (p < 0.05). These correlations remained significant following correction for leptin by BMI. Using logistic regression, a higher leptin-to-BMI ratio was associated with high gait instability (OR = 9.97, 95%CI: 4.17−23.84, p < 0.001). After stratification by sex, this association was only evident among females (OR = 6.09, 95%CI: 1.04−35.56, p = 0.045). These findings suggest a sex-based association between serum leptin and gait stability among apparently healthy students.
Emotional Availability in Autism Intervention: A Mother–Father Comparative Analysis
Authors: Perzolli Silvia , Bertamini Giulio , Venuti Paola , Bentenuto Arianna
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The literature highlights the importance of parental involvement in autism treatment. However, much research has predominantly focused on child outcomes and cognitive dimensions. This study explores the impact of an early intensive intervention with parental involvement, focusing on changes in parents’ affective exchanges. Notably, given the paucity of studies on fathers in the intervention context, this study examines the comparative trajectory of change considering both caregivers. Methods: Twenty autistic preschoolers were monitored for one year during a parental-based intervention. Child–mother and child–father play interactions were coded with the Emotional Availability Scales at baseline and at 12 months. Repeated measures linear mixed-effect models were employed to investigate time and caregiver effects and their interaction. Results: Results highlighted both similarities and differences in change trajectories between caregivers. Parental sensitivity, structuring, and non-intrusiveness significantly increased for both parents with fathers showing more prominent gains in structuring the interaction while being non-intrusive. Child responsiveness and involvement significantly increased, showing similar trajectories with both caregivers. Children were generally more involved while interacting with their fathers. Conclusion: Parent–child interactions with caregivers evolved toward more adaptive exchanges regarding emotional availability for children’s and parents’ dimensions. Fathers appeared to be particularly receptive regarding acquiring structuring abilities and non-intrusive behaviors. Our results underscore the importance of investigating parental features as well as the importance of actively involving caregivers to support distal outcomes and generalization.
Parental Stress and Mental Health Outcomes Following the October 7th Events: Insights from Israeli Families of Children with Special Needs
Authors: Alfasi Yitshak , Maytles Ruth , Besser Avi
Published: January 2025

The October 7th events precipitated an unprecedented psychological crisis for Israeli families, particularly affecting parents of children with special needs. This empirical study aimed to investigate the psychological factors contributing to parental stress and mental health outcomes in a community sample of 2097 parents, comparing those with children with special needs (n = 540) to those with typically developing children (n = 1557). Findings revealed that parents of children with special needs exhibited significantly higher levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance, parental stress, and intolerance of uncertainty, while reporting lower levels of parental competence, perceived social support, and mental health. Notably, meaning in life did not significantly differ between the groups. Correlational analyses indicated that attachment anxiety and avoidance were negatively correlated with parental competence, social support, meaning in life, and mental health while positively correlating with parental stress and intolerance of uncertainty. Mediation analyses showed that attachment anxiety and avoidance significantly predicted increased parental stress and reduced mental health, with these effects mediated by lower parental competence and diminished meaning in life. Moreover, intolerance of uncertainty mediated the effect of attachment anxiety on mental health. However, the mediating role of perceived social support on parental stress was absent among parents of children with special needs. These findings underscore the need for targeted interventions that bolster parental resilience, particularly for families of children with special needs during times of crisis.
Optimization Strategies for Underfloor Air Distribution in a Small-Scale Data Center
Authors: Yu Fengjiao , Chen Hongbing , Wang Wenqian , An Jingjing
Published: January 2025

The development of 5G application technology has led to a rapid expansion in the scale of internet data center rooms and the number of servers. Due to the high heat generation of data center server equipment and the mixing of hot and cold airflows within the rooms, the thermal environment of these rooms fails to meet operational requirements with increasing energy consumption and thermal density. This study utilized the 6SigmaDC software to simulate and analyze the characteristics and existing problems of airflow distribution in a small-scale data center. Based on identified issues with current airflow patterns, two optimization schemes were proposed, analyzing the effects of raised floor height and the closure of aisles on airflow optimization. The return heat index (RHI) was used as an evaluation metric to assess airflow patterns before and after optimization. When the raised floor height was 600 mm, the maximum temperature at the cabinet inlet and outlet were 19.3 °C and 34 °C respectively, which were the lowest, and the RHI value was 0.9622. Compared with unclosed aisles and closed hot aisles, closed cold aisles effectively reduced the cabinet inlet and outlet temperature and increased the RHI. In addition, closed cold aisles increased the air supply temperature from 18 °C to 20 °C, further reducing the energy consumption of the air conditioning system. This study can provide guidance and act as a reference for optimizing airflow design and energy conservation in small data centers.