bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical Study on the In-Service Welding Stress of X80 Steel Natural Gas Pipeline
Authors: Tang Haiping , Ding Yaping , Qiu Guangyou , Yi Pei , Liu Ziguang
Published: February 2025

In this study, the welding stress of in-service welding on the X80 steel pipeline was investigated using the 3D finite element method. The parameters of heat source and axial and hoop welding stress were verified in the experiment. As shown in the results, in the heat-affected-zone (HAZ) location of the pipeline and sleeve, the outer wall was predominantly under compressive stress, while the inner wall was mainly subjected to tensile stress. The hoop stress (σh) is greater than the axial stress (σa). The maximum hoop stress is primarily concentrated at the connection point between the fillet weld and the sleeve, and its value exceeds the yield strength of X80 steel. Excluding the start–end region, the axial stress distributed in the circumferential direction remains at an almost constant value. The hoop stress values exhibit an approximately symmetric distribution, with relatively higher values at 0° and 180° and relatively lower values at 90° and 270°. Compared with axial stress, the influence of natural gas pressure and flow rate on the hoop stress of the pipeline is more pronounced. When the natural gas pressure increases from 0.5 MPa to 2.5 MPa and the flow rate increases from 1 m/s to 20 m/s, the hoop stress of the pipeline increases by 3.18% and 15.42%, respectively. Moreover, the influence of the preheating temperature on the axial stress of the sleeve is highly prominent. When the preheating temperature is elevated from 20 °C to 300 °C, the axial welding stress of the sleeve increases by 115.3%. These results indicate that maintaining the natural gas pressure at 1 MPa, keeping the flow rate below 12 m/s, and controlling the preheating temperature at approximately 50 °C can enhance the performance of the fillet weld during the in-service welding of X80 steel pipelines.
The Effect of A-Cation and X-Anion Substitutions on the Electronic and Structural Properties of A2ZrX6 ‘Defect’ Perovskite Materials: A Theoretical Density Functional Theory Study
Authors: Kolokytha Christina , Lathiotakis Nektarios N. , Kaltzoglou Andreas , Petsalakis Ioannis D. , Tzeli Demeter
Published: February 2025

In the present work, nine ‘defect’ perovskites with the chemical formula A2ZrX6 have been studied, where the A-site cations are a methylammonium cation, formamidinium cation, and trimethyl-sulfonium cation and the X-site anions are halogen, X = Cl, Br, and I. We employ periodic DFT calculations using GGA-PBE, MBJ, HSEsol, and HSE06 functionals. All studied compounds exhibit a wide-bandgap energy that ranges from 5.22 eV to 2.11 eV, while for some cases, geometry optimization led to significant structural modification. It was found that the increase in the halogen size resulted in a decrease in the bandgap energy. The choice of the organic A-site cation affects the bandgap as well, which is minimal for the methylammonium cation. Such semiconductors with organic cations may be utilized in optoelectronic devices, given the substantial benefit of solution processability and thin film formation compared to purely inorganic analogs, such as Cs2ZrX6.
Polyvinyl Alcohol Films Reinforced with Nanocellulose from Rice Husk
Authors: Cholant Gabriel Monteiro , Bosenbecker Mariane Weirich , Reichert Alexandra Augusta , Beatrice Cesar Augusto Gonçalves , Freitas Thales Castilhos , Freitas Naurienni Dutra , de Nunes Nathalia Vieira Villar , Galio Alexandre Ferreira , Missio André Luiz , de Oliveira Amanda Dantas
Published: February 2025

Progress in the field of biodegradable materials has been significantly accelerated in recent years, driven by the search for sustainable substitutes for fossil-derived resources. This study investigates the formulation of biodegradable films composed of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) and nanocellulose extracted from rice husk. The rice husk underwent alkaline treatment and bleaching for cellulose extraction, followed by sulfuric acid hydrolysis to obtain nanocellulose. The cellulose and nanocellulose were characterized through Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), and Thermogravimetric Analysis (TGA). Films of pure PVA and those reinforced with 1 wt. % of nanocellulose were prepared using the solvent casting method. The evaluations showed that the modulus of elasticity and tensile strength of the PVA/nanocellulose films were increased by 295.45% and 29.6%, respectively, compared to the pure PVA film. The PVA/nanocellulose film exhibited the lowest solubility and water vapor permeability. Optical Microscopy confirmed a flawless surface for the nanocellulose-reinforced film, while the cellulose- and rice husk-reinforced films displayed irregularities. In the biodegradability assessment, the nanocellulose-reinforced film was the only one that withstood the experimental conditions. The results highlight the effectiveness of nanocellulose in enhancing PVA properties, making these films promising for sustainable packaging applications.
Advancing AI Interpretability in Medical Imaging: A Comparative Analysis of Pixel-Level Interpretability and Grad-CAM Models
Authors: Ennab Mohammad , Mcheick Hamid
Published: February 2025

This study introduces the Pixel-Level Interpretability (PLI) model, a novel framework designed to address critical limitations in medical imaging diagnostics by enhancing model transparency and diagnostic accuracy. The primary objective is to evaluate PLI’s performance against Gradient-Weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) and achieve fine-grained interpretability and improved localization precision. The methodology leverages the VGG19 convolutional neural network architecture and utilizes three publicly available COVID-19 chest radiograph datasets, consisting of over 1000 labeled images, which were preprocessed through resizing, normalization, and augmentation to ensure robustness and generalizability. The experiments focused on key performance metrics, including interpretability, structural similarity (SSIM), diagnostic precision, mean squared error (MSE), and computational efficiency. The results demonstrate that PLI significantly outperforms Grad-CAM in all measured dimensions. PLI produced detailed pixel-level heatmaps with higher SSIM scores, reduced MSE, and faster inference times, showcasing its ability to provide granular insights into localized diagnostic features while maintaining computational efficiency. In contrast, Grad-CAM’s explanations often lack the granularity required for clinical reliability. By integrating fuzzy logic to enhance visual and numerical explanations, PLI can deliver interpretable outputs that align with clinical expectations, enabling practitioners to make informed decisions with higher confidence. This work establishes PLI as a robust tool for bridging gaps in AI model transparency and clinical usability. By addressing the challenges of interpretability and accuracy simultaneously, PLI contributes to advancing the integration of AI in healthcare and sets a foundation for broader applications in other high-stake domains.
Update on Osteoporosis
Authors: Greco Tommaso , Perisano Carlo
Published: February 2025

Osteoporosis remains a major public health concern, significantly impacting the quality of life of the elderly and those with conditions that are associated with reduced bone density [...]
Does Magnesium Affect Sex Hormones and Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Patients with PCOS? Findings from a Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Abu-Zaid Ahmed , Alzayed Mooza M. , Albahrani Suha Jafar , Almaqhawi Abdullah , Al Shaikh Mona Ahmed , Baradwan Saeed , Almudiheem Nawaf Abdulaziz , Abuzaid Mohammed , Adly Heba M. , Saleh Saleh A. K. , Alomar Osama
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder associated with various cardiometabolic risk factors, including insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, hypertension, and obesity, which contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases. This inaugural systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluated the impact of magnesium supplementation on various cardiometabolic risk factors and hormonal parameters in patients with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Materials and Methods: We systematically searched the MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane databases until 30 March 2024 for studies comparing magnesium supplementation to control in improving cardiometabolic and hormonal factors in PCOS patients. Endpoints were summarized as mean differences (MD) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) in a random-effects model. Results: The primary search yielded 176 studies. After screening, six studies met our inclusion criteria. Our meta-analysis showed no significant effects of magnesium supplementation on cardiometabolic risk factors and hormonal parameters in patients with PCOS. Conclusions: Magnesium supplementation does not appear to influence the cardiometabolic and hormonal factors in PCOS patients. Further rigorous RCTs are needed to strengthen the evidence and support comprehensive analysis in this area. PROSPERO database (CRD42024526110).
Effectiveness of Pemafibrate Dose Escalation on Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease Refractory to Standard Dose
Authors: Shinozaki Satoshi , Miura Kouichi , Tahara Toshiyuki , Yamamoto Hironori
Published: February 2025

Background and Aim: Controlling the hepatic inflammation of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is important to prevent serious condition. Pemafibrate, a selective peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor-α modulator, has demonstrated effectiveness at a standard dose (0.2 mg daily). The aim of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of pemafibrate dose escalation from 0.2 mg to 0.4 mg daily in patients with MASLD who are refractory to standard-dose therapy. Methods: This study included patients with MASLD who had a persistent elevation of alanine aminotransferase (ALT) levels despite more than one year of standard-dose pemafibrate therapy (0.2 mg daily). All patients underwent dose escalation to 0.4 mg once daily. Hepatic inflammation was assessed using serum ALT levels, hepatic function was evaluated with the albumin–bilirubin score, and hepatic fibrosis was estimated using Mac-2 binding protein glycosylation isomer (M2BPGi) levels. A one-year treatment period was investigated, including six months before dose escalation and six months after dose escalation. Results: Eleven patients were included. The median treating period with standard-dose pemafibrate was 3.2 years. Weight did not show significant change throughout the observation period. Regarding the hepatobiliary enzyme, the aspartate aminotransferase, ALT, and γ-glutamyl transpeptidase levels significantly improved six months after the dose escalation. Specifically, ALT improved in all patients, and the ALT levels normalized in four patients (36%). The lipid profiles, the albumin–bilirubin score, and M2BPGi did not significantly change after the dose escalation. Conclusions: The dose escalation of pemafibrate from 0.2 mg to 0.4 mg daily may improve hepatic inflammation in patients with MASLD refractory to standard-dose therapy.
Agri-Food Sector: Contemporary Trends, Possible Gaps, and Prospective Directions
Authors: Cantorani José Roberto Herrera , de Oliveira Meire Ramalho , Pilatti Luiz Alberto , de Sousa Thales Botelho
Published: February 2025

The agri-food sector is expanding, driven by growing global demand. At the same time, it faces the challenge of increasing its efficiency and adopting sustainable practices. This study aimed to map scientific production in this field, identifying trends, emerging themes, critical gaps, and future directions for research. A bibliometric analysis was conducted with 5141 papers published between 1977 and 2024, extracted from the Scopus and Web of Science databases. We applied keyword co-occurrence analysis, thematic analysis, thematic evolution, and three-field graphs using the metrics betweenness centrality, closeness centrality, and PageRank. The results revealed a significant growth in publications in the agri-food sector, especially after 2012, emphasizing the high centrality and relevance of themes such as sustainability, agri-food, and agriculture. Topics such as bioactive compounds, blockchain, and traceability were identified as areas of growing interest, and the circular economy stood out as an emerging topic. Italy, Spain, and France lead in scientific production and international collaboration. The most prominent journals were Sustainability, the Journal of Cleaner Production, and Agriculture and Human Values. Research in the sector is expanding, focusing on sustainability, the circular economy, and bioactive compounds. International collaborations and high-impact journals are pillars for advances in the sector.
Characterization and Optimization of Cellulose-Degrading Bacteria Isolated from Fecal Samples of Elaphurus davidianus Through Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Wu Hong , Shi Chunmiao , Xu Tianyi , Dai Xinrui , Zhao Dapeng
Published: February 2025

The screening of cellulose-degrading microorganisms from herbivores and the optimization of fermentation conditions are of great significance for the utilization of cellulose resources. In this study, we initially employed a metagenomic analysis to investigate the fecal microbiota of both captive and semi-free-ranging Père David’s deer (Elaphurus davidianus) under varying environmental conditions. Subsequently, we isolated and cultured cellulase-degrading microorganisms from the fecal samples using Congo red medium. There was consistency in the dominant phyla and genera of gut microorganisms between the two groups, with only differences in abundance. Then, a cellulose-degrading strain identified as Bacillus pumilus XM was isolated after a morphological analysis and molecular identification by 16S rRNA amplicon. In addition, a series of single factor experiments and response surface analysis were conducted to determine the optimal conditions for best cellulase activity. The optimum temperature, culture time, and shaking speed for the reaction of cellulase produced by the strain Bacillus pumilus XM were 34 °C, 28 h, and 154 r/min, respectively. Under these conditions, the cellulase activity reached a maximum of 10.96 U/mL, which was relatively close to the predicted value of 10.975 U/mL. The results have enriched the existing bacterial resources and laid a foundation for the development of new enzymes, providing a theoretical basis for the rational utilization of cellulase from wild animal resources.
Probiotics and Honey: Boosting Functional Properties in Dry Fermented Sausages
Authors: Petrović Tanja Žugić , Tomović Vladimir M. , Marković Katarina G. , Semedo-Lemsaddek Teresa , Grujović Mirjana Ž.
Published: February 2025

Dry-fermented sausages, particularly traditional varieties like Sokobanja sausage from Serbia, are highly valued for their unique sensory attributes. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of adding starter cultures (lactic acid bacteria, LAB, and coagulase-negative staphylococci, CNS) and organic sunflower honey (at concentrations of 0.2% and 0.4%) on the physicochemical, microbiological, and sensory properties of Sokobanja sausage. The primary objective was to enhance the sausage’s quality while accelerating the ripening process. The methodology involved enriching the sausage mixture with starter cultures and honey, followed by sensory evaluation, microbiological analyses, and physicochemical measurements over a 28-day ripening period. Results showed that the addition of starter cultures and 0.2% honey significantly improved texture parameters such as hardness, cohesiveness, and chewiness compared to the control. Consumer acceptance was also high for these sausages. Microbiological analysis revealed that honey supported the growth of LAB and CNS, which facilitated lactic acid production and resulted in a rapid decline in undesirable microorganisms, such as enterobacteria, yeasts, and molds, particularly after 7–14 days. This led to a reduction in pH and an accelerated ripening process, typically lasting 25–28 days. The findings suggest that incorporating starter cultures and sunflower honey enhances both the functional and sensory properties of Sokobanja sausage, offering a promising approach for improving quality and safety. Future research should explore the use of targeted delivery mechanisms for probiotic bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract and further investigate the potential health benefits of these sausages as functional foods.
Seseli foliosum (Somm. et Levier) Manden.—A Comprehensive Phytochemical and Biological Evaluation
Authors: Nersezashvili Mariam , Berashvili Dali , Jokhadze Malkhaz , Metreveli Mariam , Świątek Łukasz , Salwa Kinga , Pecio Łukasz , Wojtanowski Krzysztof Kamil , Skiba Adrianna , Korona-Głowniak Izabela , Zengin Gökhan , Skalicka-Woźniak Krystyna
Published: February 2025

The genus Seseli L. (Apiaceae family) is widespread across Europe and Asia, with ten species identified in Georgia. Among these, Seseli foliosum (Somm. et Levier) Manden., is notable for its unique pharmacological properties. To our knowledge, comprehensive phytochemical and biological investigations have not yet been conducted. The primary aim of this research is to explore the chemical and biological properties of S. foliosum, thereby enhancing its potential applications in medicine and related fields. Different chromatographic techniques were utilized to isolate individual compounds and to identify the chemical composition of S. foliosum MeOH and Et2O extracts from seeds and roots. A battery of biological assays (antimicrobial, antioxidant, enzymatic, anxiolytic, and cytotoxic) were employed to assess the pharmacological properties of the extracts. The results from gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC/MS) revealed that both MeOH and Et2O extracts contain a diverse array of compounds, including monoterpenoids, sesquiterpenoids, and phenolic compounds. Furanocoumarin edultin was isolated from the MeOH extract by liquid–liquid separation (LLS). The MeOH extracts exhibited important antioxidant, enzyme inhibitory, and antimicrobial activities with notable efficacy against Staphylococcus aureus (MIC 125 µg/mL) and Candida glabrata (MIC 62.5 µg/mL). Underground Et2O extracts showed advanced cytotoxic activity, particularly against hypopharyngeal carcinoma cells (CC50 22.33 µg/mL and 27.16 µg/mL, respectively). The study provides a wide-range analysis of the phytochemical composition and biological activities of S. foliosum, highlighting its potential as a source of bioactive compounds. These findings contribute to the understanding of the therapeutic potential of S. foliosum and lay the groundwork for further pharmacological and clinical research.
Conformational Analysis of Uniformly 13C-Labeled Peptides by Rotationally Selected 13Cα-13CH3 Double-Quantum Solid-State NMR
Authors: Middleton David
Published: February 2025

Peptides are an important class of biomolecules that perform many physiological functions and which occupy a significant and increasing share of the pharmaceutical market. Methods to determine the solid-state structures of peptides in different environments are important to help understand their biological functions and to aid the development of drug formulations. Here, a new magic-angle spinning (MAS) solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (SSNMR) approach is described for the structural analysis of uniformly 13C-labeled solid peptides. Double-quantum (DQ) coherence between selective pairs of 13C nuclei in peptide backbone and side-chain CH3 groups is excited to provide restraints on (i) 13C–13C internuclear distances and (ii) the relative orientations of C–H bonds. DQ coherence is selected by adjusting the MAS frequency to the difference in the resonance frequencies of selected nuclear pairs (the rotational resonance condition), which reintroduces the dipolar coupling between the nuclei. Interatomic distances are then measured using a constant time SSNMR experiment to eliminate uncertainties arising from relaxation effects. Further, the relative orientations of C–H bond vectors are determined using a DQ heteronuclear local field SSNMR experiment, employing 13C–1H coupling amplification to increase sensitivity. These methods are applied to determine the molecular conformation of a uniformly 13C-labeled peptide, N-formyl-l-methionyl-l-leucyl-l-phenylalanine (fMLF). From just six distance and six angular restraints, two possible molecular conformations are determined, one of which is in excellent agreement with the crystal structure of a closely related peptide. The method is envisaged to a useful addition to the SSNMR repertoire for the solid-state structure determination of peptides in a variety of forms, including amyloid fibrils and pharmaceutical formulations.
Synthesis and Anti-Inflammatory Evaluation of Novel Hybrids of 7-Oxodehydroabietic Acid Bearing a 1,2,3-Triazole Moiety
Authors: Fang Wen-Tao , Lv Yong-Feng , Ren Fu-Cai , Zhang Hong , Xie Dong-Mei , Zhang Xiao-Bo , Fang Cheng-Wu , Liu Shou-Jin , Luo Han
Published: February 2025

To discover novel, potent anti-inflammatory diterpenoids, a series of hybrids of 7-oxodehydroabietic acid bearing a 1,2,3-triazole moiety was designed and synthesized. The target compounds were characterized by means of 1H NMR, 13C NMR, and ESI-HRMS. All the compounds were evaluated for their anti-inflammatory activity towards BV2 cell lines using L-NMMA (IC50 = 42.36 ± 2.47 µM) as a positive control. Most showed good anti-inflammatory activities, especially compounds 10 (IC50 = 8.40 ± 0.98 µM), 15 (IC50 = 10.74 ± 2.67 µM), 16 (IC50 = 10.96 ± 1.85 µM), and 17 (IC50 = 9.76 ± 1.27 µM), which exhibited potent anti-inflammatory effects on BV2 cell lines.
Is Reducing the Obesity Epidemic in Children and Adolescents Really a Mission Impossible?
Authors: Genovesi Simonetta , Orlando Antonina , Giussani Marco
Published: February 2025

The prevalence of pediatric excess weight has reached such levels that there are fears of a sharp increase in associated noncommunicable diseases when today’s children become adults [...]
Prenatal Risk Factors for Brief Resolved Unexplained Events in Infants
Authors: Nosetti Luana , Zaffanello Marco , Katz Eliot S. , Morrone Elisa , Abramo Michele , Brambilla Francesca , Cromi Antonella , Piacentini Giorgio , Agosti Massimo
Published: February 2025

Background: Prenatal factors have been implicated in the likelihood of reporting sleep disorders in infants. The influence of prenatal and pregnancy-related factors on the incidence of brief resolved unexplained events (BRUEs) in infants has not been established. Objectives: This study aims to evaluate the prenatal and pregnancy-related factors that may contribute to the development of BRUEs in infants. Methods: A single-center, observational, and cross-sectional cohort study was conducted on mothers of children presenting to the Pediatric Clinic of the University of Insubria’s Center for the Study of Respiratory Sleep Disorders with BRUEs as infants. The mothers of typically developing children were enrolled as a control group consecutively at their respective outpatient clinics. All mothers were administered comprehensive questionnaires including demographics, past medical histories, and pregnancy-related issues (weight gain, Berlin sleep-disordered breathing score, and insomnia severity index), psychological symptoms, medical history, illnesses, and medications. Results: Infants with BRUEs were delivered at an earlier gestational age. Mothers of infants with BRUEs were more likely to snore during pregnancy and have lower extremity edema during the first trimester, uterine contractions and restless legs syndrome symptoms during the second trimester, and muscle aches and aspirin usage during the third trimester. The insomnia severity index composite score was not different between the control and BRUE groups. Mothers of infants with BRUEs were less likely to report leg cramps, pregnancy-related diarrhea, fatigue, and gastroesophageal reflux. Conclusions: Mothers of infants presenting with BRUEs had more symptoms during pregnancy of snoring and uterine contractions but not insomnia and were less likely to report leg cramps, pregnancy-related diarrhea, fatigue, and gastroesophageal reflux. The reporting of this study conforms with the STROBE statement.
Association of Tramadol-Induced Ovarian Damage and Reproductive Dysfunction with Adenosine Triphosphate and the Protective Role of Exogenous ATP Treatment
Authors: Gumusburun Neset , Delibasi Ilhan Bahri , Bulut Seval , Suleyman Halis , Kalkan Yilmaz Betul , Coban Taha Abdulkadir , Mendil Ali Sefa , Suleyman Zeynep
Published: February 2025

Background: Tramadol, a weak opioid analgesic agent, is known to induce ovarian damage. Previous studies have held oxidative stress responsible for the adverse effects of tramadol on female reproduction. This study examined the protective effects of ATP against tramadol-induced ovarian damage and reproductive dysfunction in rats. Methods: Rats were divided into four groups (n = 12); healthy (HG), only ATP (ATPG), only tramadol (TMDG), and ATP + tramadol (ATMG). ATP was injected intraperitoneally at 25 mg/kg. Tramadol at 50 mg/kg was initiated one hour after ATP. The treatment was administered once a day for 14 days. Six rats from each group were euthanized. For two months, the remaining rats were paired with male rats. Rats that failed to give birth during this period were considered infertile. A maternity period was calculated for the rats that were delivered. Results: Tramadol caused an increase in malondialdehyde and interleukin-6, and decreased total glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase levels in the ovarian tissue. Furthermore, tramadol disrupted the histological structure of the ovaries, and immunohistochemical staining revealed severe immunopositivity. Tramadol again caused infertility and delayed pregnancy in fertile women. By suppressing biochemical changes, ATP significantly reduced tramadol-induced ovarian damage. Both histopathologically and immunohistochemically, ATP treatment regressed ovarian damage. Additionally, ATP significantly reduced tramadol-induced infertility and maternal delay. Conclusions: The results indicate that tramadol-induced oxidative and inflammatory ovarian injury, infertility, and caspase 3 were suppressed by ATP, as demonstrated by our experimental findings.
Genome-Wide Identification, Characterization, and Expression Analysis of BES1 Family Genes in ‘Tieguanyin’ Tea Under Abiotic Stress
Authors: Zhang Yanzi , Zhang Yanlin , Yang Zhicheng , Li Qingyan , Chen Weixiang , Wen Xinyan , Chen Hao , Cao Shijiang
Published: February 2025

The BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESSOR 1 (BES1) family comprises plant-specific transcription factors, which are distinguished by atypical bHLH domains. Over the past two decades, genetic and biochemical studies have established that members of the BRI1-EMS-SUPPRESSOR 1 (BES1) family are crucial for regulating the expression of genes involved in brassinosteroid (BR) response in rapeseed. Due to the significance of the BES1 gene family, extensive research has been conducted to investigate its functional properties. This study presents a comprehensive identification and computational analysis of BES1 genes in ‘Tieguanyin’ (TGY) tea (Camellia sinensis). A total of 10 BES1 genes were initially identified in the TGY genome. Through phylogenetic tree analysis, this study uniquely revealed that CsBES1.2 and CsBES1.5 cluster with SlBES1.8 from Solanum lycopersicum, indicating their critical roles in fruit growth and development. Synteny analysis identified 20 syntenic genes, suggesting the conservation of their evolutionary functions. Analysis of the promoter regions revealed two types of light-responsive cis-elements, with CsBES1.4 exhibiting the highest number of light-related cis-elements (13), followed by CsBES1.9 and CsBES1.10. Additional validation via qRT-PCR experiments showed that CsBES1.9 and CsBES1.10 were significantly upregulated under light exposure, with CsBES1.10 reaching approximately six times the expression level of the control after 4 h. These results suggest that CsBES1.9 and CsBES1.4 could play crucial roles in responding to abiotic stress. This study offers novel insights into the functional roles of the BES1 gene family in ‘Tieguanyin’ tea and establishes a significant foundation for future research, especially in exploring the roles of these genes in response to abiotic stresses, such as light exposure.
Biocontrol of Crown Gall Disease of Cherry Trees by Bacillus velezensis
Authors: Li Yongfeng , Gao Zhaoliang , Kong Weiliang , Xiao Yueting , Adjei Mark Owusu , Fan Ben
Published: February 2025

Crown gall disease (CGD), caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens, is a common plant disease that leads to significant economic losses. Biological control is a sustainable and scalable method for managing CGD. In this study, we isolated three Bacillus strains from the rhizosphere soil of healthy cherry trees and investigated their biocontrol activities and the underlying mechanisms against CGD of cherry trees. The results demonstrate that the three Bacillus strains can effectively inhibit the growth of the pathogenic A. tumefaciens strain XYT58 in vitro under different culture conditions. The pot experiments showed that the three strains could prevent CGD in cherry seedlings. Using PCR amplification, we identified the genes responsible for the synthesis of difficidin, macrolactin, and bacilysin in the three strains. In addition, inoculation with strains WY66 and WY519 significantly enhanced the expression of JA, ET, and SA pathway-related genes in cherry plants. The presence of antibiotic synthesis-related genes in the Bacillus strains and the trigger of plant ISR may explain their ability to control CGD in cherry trees. The findings of this study provide a theoretical basis for the application and development of plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria Bacillus strains in the control of CGD.
A Gemini Virus-Derived Autonomously Replicating System for HDR-Mediated Genome Editing of the EPSP Synthase Gene in Indica Rice
Authors: Borphukan Bhabesh , Khatun Muslima , Fartyal Dhirendra , James Donald , Reddy Malireddy K.
Published: February 2025

CRISPR/Cas9-mediated homology-directed repair (HDR) is a powerful tool for precise genome editing in plants, but its efficiency remains low, particularly for targeted amino acid substitutions or gene knock-ins. Successful HDR requires the simultaneous presence of Cas9, guide RNA, and a repair template (RT) in the same cell nucleus. Among these, the timely availability of the RT at the double-strand break (DSB) site is a critical bottleneck. To address this, we developed a sequential transformation strategy incorporating a deconstructed wheat dwarf virus (dWDV)-based autonomously replicating delivery system, effectively simplifying the process into a two-component system. Using this approach, we successfully achieved the targeted editing of the OsEPSPS gene in rice with a 10 percent HDR efficiency, generating three lines (TIPS1, TIPS2, and TIPS3) with amino acid substitutions (T172I and P177S) in the native EPSPS protein. The modifications were confirmed through Sanger sequencing and restriction digestion assays, and the edited lines showed no yield penalties compared to wild-type plants. This study demonstrates the utility of viral replicons in delivering gene-editing tools for precise genome modification, offering a promising approach for efficient HDR in crop improvement programs.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analyses of Anthocyanin Biosynthesis Genes in Eggplant Under Low Temperature and Weak Light
Authors: Shen Baoying , Wu Hongqi , Xie Xinxin , Zhao Bo , Chen Peiqiang , Ao Deyong , Pan Heli , Lin Biying
Published: February 2025

Low temperature, weak light, and the combination of low temperature and weak light can have an impact on the growth, development, and quality of eggplants. The color of the eggplant peel is affected by the anthocyanin content. To better understand the influence of low temperature, weak light, and the combination of low temperature and weak light on the regulation of anthocyanins in the eggplant peel, four treatments were carried out on the eggplants, respectively: low temperature (18/13 °C, 250 μmol/(m2·s)), weak light intensity (WL, 25/20 °C, 120 μmol/(m2·s)), low temperature combined with weak light intensity (LW, 18/13 °C, 120 μmol/(m2·s)), and the control (CK, 25/20 °C, 250 μmol/(m2·s)). The effects of low temperature and weak light on the anthocyanin content in various parts of the eggplant were analyzed, and transcriptome analysis was performed on the eggplant peel under the treatments of low temperature, weak light, and the combination of low temperature and weak light using RNA sequencing. The anthocyanin content in eggplants increased under low temperature and the combination of low temperature and weak light treatments, while it decreased under weak light. KEGG analysis showed that three pathways, namely phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, flavonoid biosynthesis, and anthocyanin biosynthesis, were involved in the anthocyanin biosynthesis of eggplants. Pearson correlation coefficients indicated that the anthocyanin content in the eggplant peel under low temperature and the combination of low-temperature and weak-light treatments was significantly correlated with SmPAL, Sm4CL, SmCYP73A100, SmCHS, SmCHI, F3H, DFR, ANS, and 3GT, and also significantly correlated with MYB, bHLH, and AP2/ERF. Under low-temperature and the combination of low-temperature and weak-light stress, the anthocyanin content increased due to the significant down-regulation of 3GT.
Tetraploidization Altered Phenotypic Traits and Metabolite Profile of Java Ginseng (Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn.)
Authors: Liu Yingying , Huang Xiao , Gao Xinsheng , Zhang Xiaofei , Huang Huasun , Li Weiguo , Zhang Yuanyuan
Published: February 2025

Polyploidization is a beneficial technique for enhancing the biomass of and secondary metabolite concentrations in plants. Java ginseng (Talinum paniculatum (Jacq.) Gaertn.) can be used as an alternative source of nutrition and has both ornamental and medicinal value. To improve the biomass and content of medicinal ingredients, this study established an in vitro system that was used to induce polyploidy of java ginseng. Tetraploids were successfully produced by exposing the axillary buds to colchicine. The most favorable medium for inducing polyploidy was Murashige and Skoog medium devoid of hormonal substances, while immersing stem segments in a solution of 1–3 mg/mL colchicine for 48 h could achieve tetraploidy induction with a maximum rate of 18.03%. Tetraploids were distinguished from diploids by flow cytometry, with the tetraploids exhibiting darker and thicker leaves, bigger fruit and pollen, and larger stomata but lower stomatal density, while the aboveground biomass yield was reduced significantly compared with that of the diploids. Tetraploidization also altered the metabolite profile, with 22 metabolite concentrations being significantly increased (p < 0.05) and 74 metabolite concentrations being significantly decreased (p < 0.05) in the leaves of the tetraploids. The autotetraploid produced in this study could provide novel insights into artificial polyploid breeding and could be utilized as a germplasm to generate new polyploids.
Cloud Point Extraction as an Environmentally Friendly Technique for Sample Preparation
Authors: Sznek Bartosz , Kupczyk Olga , Czyrski Andrzej
Published: February 2025

Cloud point extraction is a sample preparation technique that involves using surfactants that are not harmful to the environment. It is based on micelle formation in which the extracted compound is encapsulated in the hydrophobic core of the micelles, which are the extracting agent. The most commonly used surfactants are nonionic. The others are anionic, cationic, or zwitterionic. The effectiveness of cloud point extraction might be enhanced by the addition of neutral salts, the application of proper pH, as well as acidic conditions and temperature. This sample preparation technique may be applied to extract analytes from the following matrices, such as biological and environmental samples. Cloud point extraction may be combined with various analytical techniques and detectors such as HPLC-UV, HPLC-MS, HPLC-FLD, inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry, gas chromatography, and flame atomic absorption spectrometry. When it is combined with electrothermal atomic absorption spectrometry, the limit of quantitation is low—even of the order of ng/L. The recovery of the analyte may reach the value of 100%.
RETRACTED: Wang et al. Characterizing the Hydraulic Fracture Propagation Behavior in Deep Fractured Formations Based on DDM and FVM. Processes 2024, 12, 2469
Authors: Wang Bin , Dong Jingfeng , Zhou Peiyao , Kong Hui , Liu Kaixin , Ding Kebao , Zheng Heng
Published: February 2025

The journal retracts the article titled “Characterizing the Hydraulic Fracture Propagation Behavior in Deep Fractured Formations Based on DDM and FVM” [...]
Al-Insāniyya by Sīdī Salāma al-Rāḍī: A Sufi Treatise Against Modernity
Authors: Leccese Francesco Alfonso
Published: February 2025

The Sufi dimension is usually underestimated within the debate on Islam and modernity as well as in discussions about resistance to Western ideas within contemporary Islamic culture. In contrast, Islamic modernism is often defined as the result of a coherent process of modernization and reform, which stems from cultural confrontation with European Western thought and is accelerated by certain key historical events between the 19th and 20th centuries. This modernization, in the last decades of the 19th century, led to the emergence of a cultural Arab renaissance, known as naḥḍa, and a religious reform, iṣlāḥ; both are strongly influenced by modern Western thought. At the opposite end of this current of thought is the perspective of Sīdī Salāma al-Rāḍī, who denounced the damage that the scientistic view of Western origin was doing to Egyptian culture. His most important work, from this point of view, is an untranslated book entitled al-Insāniyya (“Humanity”), in which the author criticizes, from a traditional perspective, the biochemical, medical, evolutionary, and spiritualist conceptions of the physical, psychic, and spiritual constitution of the human being. The general tenor of this work is highly critical of modern Western civilization and represents an attempt to propose a traditional Islamic viewpoint, which is of extreme interest due to its uniqueness. Al-Insāniyya highlights a topic rarely addressed in academic literature on early twentieth-century Sufism: the involvement of a Sufi master in the dialogue between Western modernity and the Sufi Islamic tradition. This reveals a historical framework in which the Sufis of Cairo’s cosmopolitan environment, while mastering scientistic themes, reject modernity in favor of a classical Sufi vision of evolution understood as an initiatory path of spiritual perfection.
Modelling LiDAR-Based Vegetation Geometry for Computational Fluid Dynamics Heat Transfer Models
Authors: Keerthinathan Pirunthan , Winsen Megan , Krishnakumar Thaniroshan , Ariyanayagam Anthony , Hamilton Grant , Gonzalez Felipe
Published: February 2025

Vegetation characteristics significantly influence the impact of wildfires on individual building structures, and these effects can be systematically analyzed using heat transfer modelling software. Close-range light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data obtained from uncrewed aerial systems (UASs) capture detailed vegetation morphology; however, the integration of dense vegetation and merged canopies into three-dimensional (3D) models for fire modelling software poses significant challenges. This study proposes a method for integrating the UAS–LiDAR-derived geometric features of vegetation components—such as bark, wooden core, and foliage—into heat transfer models. The data were collected from the natural woodland surrounding an elevated building in Samford, Queensland, Australia. Aboveground biomass (AGB) was estimated for 21 trees utilizing three 3D tree reconstruction tools, with validation against biomass allometric equations (BAEs) derived from field measurements. The most accurate reconstruction tool produced a tree mesh utilized for modelling vegetation geometry. A proof of concept was established with Eucalyptus siderophloia, incorporating vegetation data into heat transfer models. This non-destructive framework leverages available technologies to create reliable 3D tree reconstructions of complex vegetation in wildland–urban interfaces (WUIs). It facilitates realistic wildfire risk assessments by providing accurate heat flux estimations, which are critical for evaluating building safety during fire events, while addressing the limitations associated with direct measurements.
Estimating Motion Parameters of Ground Moving Targets from Dual-Channel SAR Systems
Authors: Liu Kun , He Xiongpeng , Liao Guisheng , Zhu Shengqi , Zeng Cao
Published: February 2025

In dual-channel synthetic aperture radar (SAR) systems, the estimation of the four-dimensional motion parameters of the ground maneuvering target is a critical challenge. In particular, when spatial degrees of freedom are used to enhance the target’s output signal-to-clutter-plus-noise ratio (SCNR), it is possible to have multiple solutions in the parameter estimation of the target. To deal with this issue, a novel algorithm for estimating the motion parameters of ground moving targets in dual-channel SAR systems is proposed in this paper. First, the random sample consensus (RANSAC) and modified adaptive 2D calibration (MA2DC) are used to prevent the target’s phase from being distorted as a result of channel balancing. To address range migration, the RFRT algorithm is introduced to achieve arbitrary-order range migration correction for moving targets, and the generalized scaled Fourier transform (GSCFT) algorithm is applied to estimate the polynomial coefficients of the target. Subsequently, we propose using the synthetic aperture length (SAL) of the target as an independent equation to solve for the four-dimensional parameter information and introduce a windowed maximum SNR method to estimate the SAL. Finally, a closed-form solution for the four-dimensional parameters of ground maneuvering targets is derived. Simulations and real data validate the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm.
Nonlinear Quantization Method of SAR Images with SNR Enhancement and Segmentation Strategy Guidance
Authors: Yao Zijian , Fang Linlin , Yang Junxin , Zhong Lihua
Published: February 2025

The quantization process of synthetic aperture radar (SAR) images faces significant challenges due to their high dynamic range, resulting in notable quantization distortion. This not only degrades the visual quality of the quantized images but also severely impacts the accuracy of image interpretation. To mitigate the distortion caused by uniform quantization and enhance visual quality, this paper introduced a novel nonlinear quantization framework via signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) enhancement and segmentation strategy guidance. This framework introduces guiding information to improve quantization performance in weak scattering regions. A histogram adjustment method is developed to incorporate the spatial information of SAR images into the quantization process to enhance the quantization performance, specifically within weak scattering regions. Additionally, the optimal quantizer is improved by refining the SNR distribution across quantization units, addressing imbalances in their allocation. Experimental results based on Gaofen-3 (GF-3) satellite data demonstrate that the proposed algorithm approaches the global quantization performance of optimal quantizers while achieving superior local quantization performance compared to existing methods.
Beyond the Remote Sensing Ecological Index: A Comprehensive Ecological Quality Evaluation Using a Deep-Learning-Based Remote Sensing Ecological Index
Authors: Gong Xi , Li Tianqi , Wang Run , Hu Sheng , Yuan Shuai
Published: February 2025

Ecological integrity is fundamental to human survival and development. However, rapid urbanization and population growth have significantly disrupted ecosystems. Despite the focus of the International Geosphere-Biosphere Programme (IGBP) on terrestrial ecosystems and land use/cover changes, existing ecological indices, such as the Remote Sensing Ecological Index (RSEI), have limitations, including an overreliance on single indicators and inability to fully encapsulate the ecological conditions of urban areas. This study addresses these gaps by proposing a Deep-learning-based Remote Sensing Ecological Index (DRSEI) that integrates human economic activities and leverages an autoencoder neural network with long short-term memory (LSTM) modules to account for nonlinearity in ecological quality assessments. The DRSEI model utilizes multi-temporal remote sensing data from the Landsat series, WorldPop, and NPP-VIIRS and was applied to evaluate the ecological conditions of Hubei Province, China, over the past two decades. The key findings indicate that ecological environmental quality gradually improved, particularly from 2000 to 2010, with the rate of improvement subsequently slowing. The DRSEI outperformed the traditional RSEI and had a significantly higher Pearson correlation coefficient than the Ecological Index (EI), thus demonstrating enhanced accuracy and predictive performance. This study presents an innovative approach to ecological assessment that offers a more comprehensive, accurate, and nuanced understanding of ecological changes over time. Integrating socioeconomic factors with deep learning techniques contributes significantly to the field and has implications for ecological risk control and sustainable development.
Resistance, Resilience, and Recovery Time of Grasslands in Response to Different Drought Patterns
Authors: Yu Huilin , Zhu Lin , He Xinrui , Chen Yun , Zhu Yishu , Liu Futian
Published: February 2025

Resistance, resilience, and recovery time are critical for quantifying the stability of grasslands in response to drought disturbances. Few studies have simultaneously considered both drought intensity and duration to analyze the stability of different grassland types, which may overlook short-term extreme or long-term cumulative effects. This study used the monthly Standardized Precipitation Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI) to identify distinct drought patterns in Inner Mongolia, China, from 1998 to 2020, accounting for both intensity and duration. Grassland stability was assessed using monthly SPOT-VGT Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) data. We focused on the vegetation response to short-term climate changes while minimizing the influence of seasonal fluctuations in vegetation growth. Six drought patterns were identified, and the resistance of grassland types under the same drought pattern followed this order: temperate desert steppe (TDS) > temperate typical steppe (TTS) > temperate meadow steppe (TMS). Resilience was ranked as TDS < TTS < TMS, while recovery time followed the reverse trend: TDS > TTS > TMS. A trade-off was observed between resilience and resistance. Most grasslands were able to recover within five months following a drought. These findings provide scientific support for enhancing ecosystem adaptability to climate change and for managing grassland resources more effectively.