bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Economic Viability of the Production of Peruvian Grunt (Anisotremus scapularis) in RAS on the Peruvian–Chilean Desert Coast
Authors: Presa Pablo , Cruz Yolanda Leonor Perca , Huanacuni Jordan I. , Pepe-Victoriano Renzo , Espinoza-Ramos Luis A.
Published: December 2024

The Peruvian grunt Anisotremus scapularis is one of the most appreciated fish in Peruvian national markets. However, its reduced and irregular fishery is a paradigm of illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU) in the Peruvian–Chilean coastal region. An important technological advancement has been achieved in the last decade in capture, management, nutrition, and broodstock maintenance to boost pilot experiences on the aquaculture of this species. Therefore, it is pertinent to evaluate the economic viability of this candidate species to identify cultivation bottlenecks, optimize the process, and assess the transfer feasibility of the technical know-how to interest groups. In this study, we performed a sensitivity analysis to assess how market price and production size should make its commercialization profitable. We show that the use of photovoltaic solar panels and a raw production cycle of 15 months enables profitability at a ~400 k unit farm size at a commercial market price of 6.67 USD/kg, i.e., B/C = USD 1.14. Both, time to market and market price exerted the highest influence on the value of grunt farms; whereas, a reduction of the production cycle to 12 months by seed selection, optimized rearing conditions, and nutritional diets also provides a profitable investment, i.e., NPV = USD 287,054 with an IRR = 23.71% at a discount rate of 10% and B/C = USD 1.15. These scenarios pave the way for the transfer of technological know-how to entrepreneurial initiatives in the economically depressed coastal region of the Atacama Desert.
Different Breeding Values Under Uniform Environmental Condition for Milk Production Yield Traits in Holstein-Friesian Cows
Authors: Bognár László , Kőrösi Zsolt Jenő , Anton István , Bene Szabolcs , Szabó Ferenc
Published: December 2024

In this study, 1,616,549 Holstein-Friesian females were genotyped for genomic evaluation of genetic merit (BVGenomic). Genotyping was performed using the EuroGenomics MD v3.0 chipset on the Illumina microarray scanner platform operated by an accredited Illumina laboratory. In addition, international and national reference populations were used for traditional BLUP breeding value (BV) estimation for both individuals (BVBLUP) and parents (BVPedigree). A single-step BLUP animal model was used for this estimation. A sample of 190 first lactation progeny cows from a single herd, reared and kept under consistent environmental conditions, was used to validate the three types of BV estimation methods. Correlation and regression analysis were used to study the association between the phenotypic performance and the results of three different estimation models. The average production of the 305-day standard lactation was 10,910.5 kg milk, 397.86 kg butterfat and 365.33 kg protein. Comparative analyses showed that BVBLUP had the highest accuracy, followed by BVGenomic, while BVPedigree was the least reliable, R2 = 0.37 to 0.48; 0.09 to 0.23; 0.02 to 0.06, respectively.
Social Relationships of Captive Bachelor Przewalski’s Horses and Their Effect on Daily Activity and Space Use
Authors: Nykonenko Anastasiia , Moturnak Yevhen , McLoughlin Philip Dunstan
Published: December 2024

Understanding social relationships in at-risk species held in captivity is vital for their welfare and potential reintroduction. In social species like the Przewalski’s horse (Equus ferus przewalskii), daily time allocation and space use may be influenced by social structure and, in turn, reflect welfare. Here, we identify social relationships, time budgets, and spatial distribution of a group of nine older (aged 6–21 years) male Przewalski’s horses living in a non-breeding (bachelor) group. We conducted our work at the Askania-Nova Biosphere Reserve, over 65 h of observation in summer, 2015. Horses formed stronger social bonds with individuals of similar gregariousness and dominance levels. Social-network analysis identified three distinct subgroups with significant differences in locomotion, social behaviour, and foraging. However, resting and vigilance behaviour remained similar across the subgroups. Behavioural synchrony across all activities was higher within subgroups than between. Space use was also affected by subgroup membership, with some horses overusing or underusing critical resource areas like hay and water. These findings suggest opportunities to improve welfare by adjusting space and resource distribution, particularly for more submissive individuals. Our approach may also aid in selecting reintroduction candidates by considering social characteristics alongside health, genetic, and other factors.
Exploitation of Key Regulatory Modules and Genes for High-Salt Adaptation in Schizothoracine by Weighted Gene Co-Expression Network Analysis
Authors: Lei Luo , Deng Xingxing , Liu Fei , Gao He , Duan Yuting , Li Junting , Fu Suxing , Li Hejiao , Zhou Yinhua , Liao Rongrong , Liu Haiping , Zhou Chaowei
Published: December 2024

Schizothoracine fishes in saltwater lakes of the Tibetan Plateau are important models for studying the evolution and uplift of the Tibetan Plateau. Examining their adaptation to the high-salt environment is interesting. In this study, we first assembled the RNA-Seq data of each tissue of G. przewalskii, G. selincuoensis, and G. namensis from Qinghai Lake, Selincuo Lake, and Namtso Lake, respectively, obtained by the group previously. After obtaining reliable results, the adaptation of the gills, kidneys, and livers of the three species to the high-salinity environment was assessed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA). Using module eigengenes (ME), 21, 22, and 22 gene modules were identified for G. przewalskii, G. selincuoensis, and G. nemesis, respectively. Functional clustering analysis of genes in the significant association module identified several genes associated with osmolarity-regulated potential KEGG pathways in the gills of three species of Schizothoracine fish. Th17 cell differentiation pathway was up-regulated in the gills of all three species; histocompatibility class 2 II antigen and E alpha (h2-ea) were up-regulated genes in this pathway. Functional clustering analysis of genes in apparently related modules in the kidney unveiled several differential KEGG pathways. The pentose phosphate pathway was up-regulated in the three Schizothoracine fishes, and glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (g6pd) was an up-regulated gene in this pathway. In the livers of the three Schizothorax species, the propanoate metabolism pathway was up-regulated, and succinate-CoA ligase GDP-forming subunit beta (suclg2) was an up-regulated gene in this pathway. The above analyses provide reference data for the adaptation of Schizothorax to high-salt environments and lay the foundation for future studies on the adaptive mechanism of Schizothorax in the plateau. These results partly fill the void in the knowledge gap in the survival adaptations of Schizothoracine fishes to highland saline lakes.
Genome-Wide Scans for Selection Signatures in Ningxia Angus Cattle Reveal Genetic Variants Associated with Economic and Adaptive Traits
Authors: Yin Haiqi , Feng Yuan , Wang Yu , Jiang Qiufei , Zhang Juan , Zhao Jie , Chen Yafei , Wang Yaxuan , Peng Ruiqi , Wang Yahui , Zhao Tong , Zheng Caihong , Xu Lingyang , Gao Xue , Gao Huijiang , Li Junya , Wang Zezhao , Zhang Lupei
Published: December 2024

The genetic improvement of beef cattle breeds is crucial for the advancement of the beef cattle industry. Whole-genome resequencing technology has been widely applied in genetic breeding as well as research on selection signatures in beef cattle. In this study, 20× whole-genome resequencing was performed on 282 Angus cattle from the Ningxia region, and a high-quality dataset encompassing extensive genomic variations across the entire genome was constructed. The iHS test identified 495 selection signal regions, which included pregnancy-associated glycoprotein (PAG) family genes and immune-related genes such as UL16-binding protein 21 (ULBP21), CD1b molecule (CD1B), and tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 11 (TNFSF11). A quantitative trait locus (QTL) enrichment analysis revealed that several economic traits, including longissimus muscle area, marbling score, carcass weight, average daily gain, and milk yield, were significantly enriched in cattle with these selection signatures. Although the enrichment of QTLs for health traits was low, immune-related genes may indirectly contribute to improvements in production performance. These findings show the genetic basis of economic and adaptive traits in Ningxia Angus cattle, providing a theoretical foundation and guidance for further genetic improvement and breeding strategies.
Ultrasound Features of Helicobacter pylori-Related Gastritis
Authors: Terracciano Fulvia , Marra Antonella , Nassisi Veronica , Lillo Chiara , Bossa Fabrizio , Carparelli Sonia , Cocomazzi Francesco , Valvano Maria Rosa , Losurdo Giuseppe , Di Leo Alfredo , Perri Francesco
Published: December 2024

Background Abdominal ultrasound (US) is a reliable method for visualizing gastric wall layers and measuring their thickness. The objective of this study is to characterize the ultrasound features of H. pylori-induced gastritis and assess its predictive potential role for this condition. Methods A cohort of 119 patients underwent gastroscopy with biopsy and abdominal US to evaluate antral wall thickness (AWT), submucosal wall thickness (SLT), mucosal wall thickness (MLT), gastric motility, and the presence of ingested material. They were divided into three groups: group A (normal mucosa without H. pylori infection), group B (gastritis H. pylori negative) and group C (gastritis H. pylori positive). Results: SLT and reduced gastric motility were significantly increased in the H. pylori gastritis group (p < 0.001). Multivariate analysis identified SLT as the only significant independent predictor of H. pylori gastritis (p < 0.001). An SLT threshold of 1.55 mm was determined as optimal for differentiating H. pylori-positive patients from -negative, yielding a sensitivity of 77% and a specificity of 72%. Conclusions These findings suggest that H. pylori gastritis is characterized by submucosal layer thickening and impaired gastric motility.
Trends in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae Urinary Tract Infections and Antibiotic Resistance over a 5-Year Period in Southeastern Gabon
Authors: Mouanga-Ndzime Yann , Bisseye Cyrille , Longo-Pendy Neil-Michel , Bignoumba Michelle , Dikoumba Anicet-Clotaire , Onanga Richard
Published: December 2024

Background: Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are a substantial global health concern, exacerbated by the widespread use of antibiotics and leading to the development of multidrug-resistant strains. The aim of this study was to analyze the temporal patterns of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae UTIs and antibiotic resistance, taking into account various sociodemographic, clinical, and climatic factors within the study population. Methods: A total of 3026 urine samples from patients of all ages were analyzed over a period of five years by standard microbiological methods. Climatic data for the study area were also collected. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to measure the impact of sociodemographic, clinical and climatic parameters on the occurrence of UTIs. Results: The study showed a 31.4% prevalence of UTIs among the population. Notably, there was a significant increase in pyelonephritis between 2019 and 2023 (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a significant association was found between cystitis and the long dry season, as well as the short rainy season. Furthermore, Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae exhibited resistance to beta-lactams, quinolones, and co-trimoxazole. The resistance of Escherichia coli isolated from cystitis to nitrofurantoin showed a significant increase over the years (p < 0.04). Principal component analysis (PCA) suggested that humidity may play a role in the emergence of multidrug-resistant strains of Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae. Conclusions: UTIs show variability according to various sociodemographic, clinical, and climatic factors, with a higher risk of complications seen in individuals aged ≤ 17 years. It is important to note that cases of pyelonephritis have been increasing over time, with a noticeable seasonal variation. This study suggests that humidity may play a role in promoting antibiotic multidrug resistance in Escherichia coli and Klebsiella pneumoniae.
Does the Silver Nanoparticles Production Route Affect the Proliferation of Antibiotic Resistance in Soil Ecosystem?
Authors: Sedlakova-Kadukova Jana , Sincak Miroslava , Demčakova Veronika
Published: December 2024

Introduction: Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are widely utilized for their exceptional antimicrobial properties, but concerns persist regarding their environmental impacts, particularly in soil and water ecosystems. This study compared the effects of chemically and biologically synthesized AgNPs and ionic silver on bacterial communities commonly present in soil and the proliferation of antibiotic resistance in the soil ecosystem. Results and Discussion: Biologically synthesized AgNPs exhibited the strongest antimicrobial activity, significantly reducing bacterial populations within a day, and demonstrated minimal impacts on the development of antibiotic resistance in long-term. Notably, resistance to ampicillin was lower by 72% in comparison with a control after 90 days in the presence of biologically produced AgNPs, while resistance to tetracycline and kanamycin dropped to nearly negligible levels. In contrast, chemically synthesized AgNPs and ionic silver substantially increased antibiotic resistance in long-term, particularly to ampicillin and chloramphenicol, where resistance levels were 11 to 13 times higher than the controls, respectively. Chemically synthesized AgNPs caused a gradual rise in resistance, while ionic silver induced consistently elevated resistance throughout the study. Conclusions: These differences highlight the complex interplay between nanoparticle composition and bacterial adaptation. The findings suggest that biologically synthesized AgNPs are a promising environmentally friendly alternative, reducing bacterial resistance and mitigating the risks associated with silver-induced antibiotic resistance in soil ecosystems. They have greater potential for sustainable applications while addressing critical concerns about antimicrobial resistance and environmental safety.
Challenges and Current Trends in Preventing Antimicrobial Resistance in EU Water Law Context
Authors: Rogowska Justyna , Gałęzowska Grażyna , Zimmermann Agnieszka
Published: December 2024

The increasing consumption of pharmaceuticals, including antibiotics, and their improper disposal have resulted in both pharmaceuticals and their metabolites being released into the environment, where they pose a risk to both ecosystems and human health. One of the most serious threats to public health associated with the presence of antibiotics in the environment is antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In order to combat AMR, the legal aspect of water protection becomes a critical area of action. This article analyzes the current challenges and legislative developments in the European Union (EU) aimed at mitigating pharmaceutical contamination in aquatic environments, particularly with regard to AMR. It traces the evolution of EU water protection policies from the initial surface and groundwater directives to the recent updates of the Water Framework Directive, Groundwater Directive and Environmental Quality Standards Directive, focusing on the integration of pharmaceutical contaminants into the regulatory framework. In addition, these changes include the update of the Watch List system for monitoring emerging contaminants, the adoption of effects-based methods (EBMs) in the assessment of water status and the streamlining of the legislative process to respond more quickly to emerging threats in the aquatic environment. The EU’s strategic approach to pharmaceuticals in the environment is emphasized as a key framework for harmonizing the environmental standards and addressing the problem of AMR through more sustainable pharmaceutical practices. This study advocates for a proactive, integrated approach to water policy that aligns regulatory actions with scientific advancements to protect public health and ecosystem integrity.
Inhibitory Effect of Moringa oleifera Seed Extract and Its Behenic Acid Component on Staphylococcus aureus Biofilm Formation
Authors: Kim Seoyoung , Kim Tae-Jong
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Inhibiting biofilm formation without killing cells facilitates the physical removal of contaminating bacteria while minimizing the opportunity for resistant bacteria to emerge. Results: The M. oleifera methanolic seed extract contained 1.48% behenic acid, significantly inhibiting S. aureus biofilm formation. Although behenic acid did not affect cell growth, it inhibited biofilm formation in a concentration-dependent manner, up to 20 mg/L. The cell physiology changes caused by behenic acid are potentially unrelated to biofilm formation inhibition, as no correlation was noted between cell hydrophobicity, polysaccharide production, extracellular DNA production, or protein production and behenic acid concentration. Thus, it was hypothesized that the surfactant properties of behenic acid contribute to its ability to inhibit biofilm formation, as a similar biofilm-inhibitory effect was observed when S. aureus was administered 1% Tween 80, a surfactant. Methods: A methanolic extract of Moringa oleifera seeds was selected from a library of edible plant extracts to inhibit Staphylococcus aureus biofilm formation without cell killing. Conclusions: Behenic acid is a saturated fatty acid that is used as an ingredient in cosmetics and ointments; thus, behenic acid may benefit the skin by inhibiting the biofilm formation of S. aureus, a commensal skin pathogen.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties of Melatonin in Secondary Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Sieminski Mariusz , Reimus Michalina , Kałas Maria , Stępniewska Ewelina
Published: December 2024

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a disease resulting from external physical forces acting against the head, leading to transient or chronic damage to brain tissue. Primary brain injury is an immediate and, therefore, rather irreversible effect of trauma, while secondary brain injury results from a complex cascade of pathological processes, among which oxidative stress and neuroinflammation are the most prominent. As TBI is a significant cause of mortality and chronic disability, with high social costs all over the world, any form of therapy that may mitigate trauma-evoked brain damage is desirable. Melatonin, a sleep–wake-cycle-regulating neurohormone, exerts strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects and is well tolerated when used as a drug. Due to these properties, it is very reasonable to consider melatonin as a potential therapeutic molecule for TBI treatment. This review summarizes data from in vitro studies, animal models, and clinical trials that focus on the usage of melatonin in TBI.
New Insights into Aspirin’s Anticancer Activity: The Predominant Role of Its Iron-Chelating Antioxidant Metabolites
Authors: Kontoghiorghes George J.
Published: December 2024

Epidemiological studies have suggested that following long-term, low-dose daily aspirin (LTLDA) administration for more than 5 years at 75–100 mg/day, 20–30% of patients (50–80 years old) had a lower risk of developing colorectal cancer (CRC) and about the same proportion in developing iron deficiency anemia (IDA). In cases of IDA, an increase in iron excretion is suspected, which is caused by aspirin chelating metabolites (ACMs): salicylic acid, salicyluric acid, 2,5-dihydroxybenzoic acid, and 2,3-dihydroxybenzoic acid. The ACMs constitute 70% of the administered aspirin dose and have much longer half-lives than aspirin in blood and tissues. The mechanisms of cancer risk reduction in LTLDA users is likely due to the ACM’s targeting of iron involved in free radical damage, iron-containing toxins, iron proteins, and associated metabolic pathways such as ferroptosis. The ACMs from non-absorbed aspirin (about 30%) may also mitigate the toxicity of heme and nitroso-heme and other iron toxins from food, which are responsible for the cause of colorectal cancer. The mode of action of aspirin as a chelating antioxidant pro-drug of the ACMs, with continuous presence in LTLDA users, increases the prospect for prophylaxis in cancer and other diseases. It is suggested that the anticancer effects of aspirin depend primarily on the iron-chelating antioxidant activity of the ACMs. The role of aspirin in cancer and other diseases is incomplete without considering its rapid biotransformation and the longer half-life of the ACMs.
β-Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Reduces Oxidative Stress and Improves Steroidogenesis in Granulosa Cells Associated with Sheep Prolificacy via Activating AMPK Pathway
Authors: Cai Yu , Yang Hua , Xu Hui , Li Shanglai , Zhao Bingru , Wang Zhibo , Yao Xiaolei , Wang Feng , Zhang Yanli
Published: December 2024

Oxidative stress is a significant factor in the death of granulosa cells (GCs), leading to follicular atresia and consequently limiting the number of dominant follicles that can mature and ovulate within each follicular wave. Follicular fluid contains a diverse array of metabolites that play crucial roles in regulating GCs’ proliferation and oocyte maturation, which are essential for follicle development and female fertility. However, the mechanisms behind metabolite heterogeneity and its effects on GCs’ function remain poorly understood. Here, we identified elevated nicotinamide levels in the follicular fluid of high-prolificacy sheep, correlated with oxidative stress in GCs, by an integrated analysis. In vitro experiments demonstrated that supplementation with β-nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) significantly increased the levels of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) and adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in GCs. NMN treatment effectively reduced Lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced apoptosis and mitigated mitochondrial dysfunction, while also decreasing the production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), thereby enhancing the activity of the antioxidant defense system. Importantly, NMN treatment improved the impairments in steroid hormone levels induced by LPS. Mechanistically, the protective effects of NMN against GCs function were mediated via the AMPK/mTOR pathway. Collectively, our findings elucidate the metabolic characteristics associated with sheep prolificacy and demonstrate that NMN effectively protects GCs from LPS-induced dysfunction and enhances ovarian responsiveness via the AMPK/mTOR pathway. These findings also position NMN as a potential novel metabolic biomarker in enhancing ovarian function.
Transcriptomic Approaches to Investigate the Anti-Aging Effects of Blueberry Anthocyanins in a Caenorhabditis Elegans Aging Model
Authors: Ding Jie , Liu Jiahui , Guo Qingqi , Zhang Na
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the anti-aging effects of various concentrations of blueberry anthocyanins (BA) on the lifespan and health-related phenotypes of Caenorhabditis elegans. Blueberry anthocyanins were administered at concentrations of 50.0 μg/mL, 200.0 μg/mL, and 500.0 μg/mL, and their effects on nematode lifespan, locomotion, pharyngeal pumping rate, and the accumulation of lipofuscin and reactive oxygen species (ROS) were examined. Transcriptomic analysis was conducted to explore the regulatory effects of BA on anti-aging molecular pathways and key genes in C. elegans. Results showed a significant, dose-dependent extension of lifespan, improvement in locomotion and pharyngeal pumping rate, and reduction in lipofuscin and ROS accumulation. Transcriptomic analysis revealed that BA activated anti-aging pathways such as FOXO, IIS, and PI3K/Akt, upregulating critical genes like daf-16. These findings highlight the potential of blueberry anthocyanins as promising anti-aging agents through multiple physiological and molecular mechanisms.
The Redox Process in Red Blood Cells: Balancing Oxidants and Antioxidants
Authors: Daraghmeh Dala N. , Karaman Rafik
Published: December 2024

Red blood cells (RBCs) are a vital component of the body’s oxygen supply system. In addition to being pro-oxidants, they are also essential components of the body’s antioxidant defense mechanism. RBCs are susceptible to both endogenous and exogenous sources of oxidants. Oxyhemoglobin autoxidation is the primary source of endogenous RBC oxidant production, which produces superoxide radicals and hydrogen peroxide. Potent exogenous oxidants from other blood cells and the surrounding endothelium can also enter RBCs. Both enzymatic (like glutathione peroxidase) and non-enzymatic (like glutathione) mechanisms can neutralize oxidants. These systems are generally referred to as oxidant scavengers or antioxidants, and they work to neutralize these harmful molecules (i.e., oxidants). While their antioxidative capabilities are essential to their physiological functions and delivering oxygen to tissues, their pro-oxidant behavior plays a part in several human pathologies. The redox-related changes in RBCs can have an impact on their function and fate. The balance between pro-oxidants and antioxidants determines the oxidative status of cells, which affects signal transduction, differentiation, and proliferation. When pro-oxidant activity exceeds antioxidative capacity, oxidative stress occurs, leading to cytotoxicity. This type of stress has been linked to various pathologies, including hemolytic anemia. This review compiles the most recent literature investigating the connections between RBC redox biochemistry, antioxidants, and diverse disorders.
Deciphering Oxidative Stress in Cardiovascular Disease Progression: A Blueprint for Mechanistic Understanding and Therapeutic Innovation
Authors: Zhang Zhaoshan , Guo Jiawei
Published: December 2024

Oxidative stress plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This review focuses on the signaling pathways of oxidative stress during the development of CVDs, delving into the molecular regulatory networks underlying oxidative stress in various disease stages, particularly apoptosis, inflammation, fibrosis, and metabolic imbalance. By examining the dual roles of oxidative stress and the influences of sex differences on oxidative stress levels and cardiovascular disease susceptibility, this study offers a comprehensive understanding of the pathogenesis of cardiovascular diseases. The study integrates key findings from current research in three comprehensive ways. First, it outlines the major CVDs associated with oxidative stress and their respective signaling pathways, emphasizing oxidative stress’s central role in cardiovascular pathology. Second, it summarizes the cardiovascular protective effects, mechanisms of action, and animal models of various antioxidants, offering insights into future drug development. Third, it discusses the applications, advantages, limitations, and potential molecular targets of gene therapy in CVDs, providing a foundation for novel therapeutic strategies. These tables underscore the systematic and integrative nature of this study while offering a theoretical basis for precision treatment for CVDs. A major contribution of this study is the systematic review of the differential effects of oxidative stress across different stages of CVDs, in addition to the proposal of innovative, multi-level intervention strategies, which open new avenues for precision treatment of the cardiovascular system.
Phytochemical and Bioactivity Evaluation of Bee Pollen and Androecia of Castanea, Salix, and Quercus Species
Authors: Sen Nisa Beril , Vovk Irena , Kırmızıbekmez Hasan , Guzelmeric Etil
Published: December 2024

Qualitative and quantitative differences in the chemical composition between bee pollen originated from Castanea sativa (Türkiye and Slovenia), Salix spp. (Türkiye and Slovenia), and Quercus spp. (Türkiye) and androecia of Castanea sativa, Salix alba, and Quercus pubescens (apetalous trees) were evaluated for the first time by new high-performance thin-layer chromatography (HPTLC) and ultra-performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) methods using marker compounds. N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was isolated, and its structure was elucidated by nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and high-resolution mass spectrometry (HRMS). It was the main and the marker compound common to bee pollen (≈3–41 mg/g) and androecia (≈3–6 mg/g) samples. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the identification of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine in bee pollen originated from Salix spp. and androecia of C. sativa, S. alba, and Q. pubescens. The botanical origins of bee pollen were determined via phytochemical profiling using HPTLC-image analyses showing that bee pollen from the same botanical source had almost identical profiles regardless of collection location, geographical differences, and the bee race. In vitro tests and HPTLC-effect-directed analyses (EDAs) were performed to assess antioxidant and xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibitory activities of bee pollen, androecia, and N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine. HPTLC-EDA combined with image analyses was used for comparing the activities of bee pollen, androecia, N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine, and also other marker compounds (quercetin, myricitrin, hyperoside, quercitrin, isoquercitrin, and rutin). The remarkable bioactivity of N1,N5,N10-tricaffeoylspermidine was for the first time evaluated by HPTLC-EDA and in vitro tests. This is the first study performing HPTLC-XO inhibitory activity analyses on the HPTLC NH2 F254S plates. Further bioactivity studies on botanically and chemically well-characterized bee pollen samples are needed to aid in the use of bee pollen-containing supplements in the prevention and treatment of diseases.
Automated Dead Chicken Detection in Poultry Farms Using Knowledge Distillation and Vision Transformers
Authors: Khanal Ridip , Wu Wenqin , Lee Joonwhoan
Published: December 2024

Detecting dead chickens in broiler farms is critical for maintaining animal welfare and preventing disease outbreaks. This study presents an automated system that leverages CCTV footage to detect dead chickens, utilizing a two-step approach to improve detection accuracy and efficiency. First, stationary regions in the footage—likely representing dead chickens—are identified. Then, a deep learning classifier, enhanced through knowledge distillation, confirms whether the detected stationary object is indeed a chicken. EfficientNet-B0 is employed as the teacher model, while DeiT-Tiny functions as the student model, balancing high accuracy and computational efficiency. A dynamic frame selection strategy optimizes resource usage by adjusting monitoring intervals based on the chickens’ age, ensuring real-time performance in resource-constrained environments. This method addresses key challenges such as the lack of explicit annotations for dead chickens, along with common farm issues like lighting variations, occlusions, cluttered backgrounds, chicken growth, and camera distortions. The experimental results demonstrate validation accuracies of 99.3% for the teacher model and 98.7% for the student model, with significant reductions in computational demands. The system’s robustness and scalability make it suitable for large-scale farm deployment, minimizing the need for labor-intensive manual inspections. Future work will explore integrating deep learning methods that incorporate temporal attention mechanisms and automated removal processes.
Calculations of Cross-Sections for Positron Scattering on Benzene
Authors: Franz Małgorzata , Pastuszko Anna , Franz Jan
Published: December 2024

In this work, we present a theoretical study on positron scattering by benzene molecules over a broad energy range (1–1000 eV). The aim of this work is to provide missing data from partial cross-sections for specific processes. In particular, calculations of cross-sections for direct ionization and electronic excitation were carried out for benzene molecules in the gas phase. An estimate for the cross-section for positronium formation is obtained from a comparison with the total cross-section from experiments. Theoretical methodologies used in the study for partial ionization cross-section calculations are based on the binary-encounter Bethe model and take into account an extension of the Wannier theory. The total cross-section shows good agreement with experimental data.
Deep Penetration of Shear Deformation in Ferritic Stainless Steel via Differential Speed Rolling Considering Contact Condition
Authors: Fatimah Siti , Bahanan Warda , Kang Jee-Hyun , Widiantara I Putu , Ko Young Gun
Published: December 2024

In order to effectively process crystal-structured materials like metal, knowledge of the working slip system during plastic deformation is necessary. Rolling is a widely utilized industrial processing method, and understanding its inherent characteristics can optimize the process and help achieve the desired microstructure and texture. One key aspect worth investigating is how shear deformation penetrates through the material thickness, particularly in relation to contact conditions. Analyzing slip system activity provides valuable insights into the deep penetration of shear deformation. This is achieved by examining orientation gradients derived from inverse pole figure maps obtained through electron backscatter diffraction. The rotation axis is extracted and compared with that obtained from calculation using simple first-order self-consistent formulation. The analysis was carried out on grains with 001<11¯0>, 001<1¯1¯0>, 111<11¯0>, 111<12¯1>, 111<01¯1>, and 111<1¯1¯2> to see the activity of slip systems of 112<111> when plane strain or plane + shear mode is in operation. The rotation axis from the experiment is in agreement with that from the calculation, which confirmed the activity of the well-known 112<111> slip systems. It was found that 112<111> was active in solo in grain with {111}//ND orientation along the γ-fiber during the early stage of differential speed rolling (DSR). Furthermore, it was revealed that the 112<111> slip system was found active when shear deformation mode was in operation at the center of the sheet, which can only be found in the case of a sample with no lubrication. Conclusion: The current study shows that deep penetration was achieved under contact conditions where no lubrication was used during DSR by revealing the activity of the 112<111> slip system under the shear mode of deformation.
Mapping Abandoned Cultivated Land in China: Implications for Grain Yield Improvement
Authors: Jiang Guanghui , Ma Wenqiu , Li Yuling , Zhou Dingyang , Zhou Tao
Published: December 2024

The abandonment of cultivated land has profoundly affected the agroecological landscape, national food security, and farmer livelihoods, especially in China. Based on land use change survey data and national geoinformation survey data, this paper identified the distribution of abandoned cultivated land and analyzed the overall characteristics and spatial differentiation patterns of abandoned cultivated land in China. The results showed that: (1) In 2017, the abandoned area of cultivated land in China was approximately 9.10 million hectares, with an overall abandoned rate of approximately 5.57%. (2) The distribution of abandoned land in China had obvious spatial differences, and the trend of the area of abandoned land had an “inverted U” shape from east to west. (3) The pattern of abandonment showed a trend of spreading from a scattered distribution to a concentrated and continuous expansion from the edges of large cities and remote rural areas to the main grain-producing regions of fertile cultivated land. (4) The cultivated land abandonment has a great impact on grain production capacity, and there are differences among provinces. In 2017, China lost 40.89 million tons of grain yield due to cultivated land abandonment, accounting for 6.48% of the total grain yield, and the loss of potential grain yield reached 254.45 million tons. The cultivated land abandonment was driven not only by social effects under the dual structure of urban and rural areas but also by the rational choices of farmers under the overall balance of national policy, cultivated land income, and opportunity cost under the framework of urbanization. In the future, policy tools such as fallowing, land conversion, high farmland construction standards, and subsidies should be used to implement differentiated land use policies and optimize the spatial pattern of cultivated land use.
Optimizing Aspect-Based Sentiment Analysis Using BERT for Comprehensive Analysis of Indonesian Student Feedback
Authors: Jazuli Ahmad , Widowati  , Kusumaningrum Retno
Published: December 2024

Evaluating the learning process requires a platform for students to express feedback and suggestions openly through online reviews. Sentiment analysis is often used to analyze review texts but typically captures only overall sentiment without identifying specific aspects. This study develops an aspect-based sentiment analysis (ABSA) model using IndoBERT, a pre-trained model tailored for the Indonesian language. The research uses 10,000 student reviews from Indonesian universities, processed through data labeling, text preprocessing, and splitting, followed by model training and performance evaluation. The model demonstrated superior performance with an aspect extraction accuracy of 0.973, an F1-score of 0.952, a sentiment classification accuracy of 0.979, and an F1-score of 0.974. Experimental results indicate that the proposed ABSA model surpasses previous state-of-the-art models in analyzing sentiment related to specific aspects of educational evaluation. By leveraging IndoBERT, the model effectively handles linguistic complexities and provides detailed insights into student experiences. These findings highlight the potential of the ABSA model in enhancing learning evaluations by offering precise, aspect-focused feedback, contributing to strategies for improving the quality of higher education.
Psychomotor Abilities, Body Composition and Training Experience of Elite and Sub-Elite Handball Players
Authors: Śliż Maciej , França Cintia , Martins Francisco , Marszałek Patryk , Gouveia Élvio Rúbio , Przednowek Krzysztof
Published: December 2024

Background: Handball is characterized by fast and dynamic movements requiring appropriate psychomotor abilities and body mass composition. High levels of reaction and movement time can be crucial factors influencing quick reactions and in-time decision-making at the handball court. The aim of this study was to assess psychomotor abilities among elite and sub-elite Polish and Portuguese male and female handball players at the different levels of competition. Methods: Computer Test2Drive systems were used to assess reaction time, movement time and percentage of correct responses of 199 handball players (60 females). Results: Statistically significant correlation was noted between SIRT cr and the Elite group (r = 0.44) and between the CHORT cr and all groups (r = 0.33). A statistical correlation between CHORT MT and total body water (r = 0.44) was also noted in Elite handball players. Conclusions: High level of psychomotor abilities and body composition seems to have impact on the competitive level in male and female handball players.
Cost-Effective Autonomous Drone Navigation Using Reinforcement Learning: Simulation and Real-World Validation
Authors: Czarnecki Tomasz , Stawowy Marek , Kadłubowski Adam
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is used in tasks that usually require human intelligence. The motivation behind this study is the growing interest in deploying AI in public spaces, particularly in autonomous vehicles such as flying drones, to address challenges in navigation and control. The primary challenge lies in developing a robust, cost-effective system capable of autonomous navigation in real-world environments, handling obstacles, and adapting to dynamic conditions. To tackle this, we propose a novel approach integrating machine learning (ML) algorithms, specifically, reinforcement learning (RL), with a comprehensive simulation and testing framework. Reinforcement learning machine algorithms designed to solve problems requiring optimization of the solution for the highest possible reward were used. It was assumed that the algorithms do not have to be created from scratch, but they need a well-defined training environment that will appropriately reward or punish the actions taken. This study aims to develop and implement a novel approach to autonomous drone navigation using machine learning (ML) algorithms. The primary innovation lies in the comprehensive integration of ML algorithms with a real-world drone control system, encompassing both simulations and real-world testing. A vital component of this approach is creating a multi-stage training environment that accurately replicates actual flight conditions and progressively increases the complexity of scenarios, ensuring a robust evaluation of algorithm performance. This research also introduces a new approach to optimizing system cost and accessibility. It involves using commercially available, cost-effective drones and open-source or free simulation tools, significantly reducing entry barriers for potential users. A critical aspect of this study is to assess whether affordable components can provide sufficient accuracy and stability without compromising system quality. The authors developed a system capable of autonomously determining optimal flight paths and controlling the drone, allowing it to avoid obstacles and respond to dynamic conditions in real time. The performance of the trained algorithms was confirmed through simulations and real-world flights, which allowed for assessing their usefulness in practical drone navigation scenarios.
Operation of Hydroelectric Power Plants, Dam Reservoirs, and Energy Trade Using Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Akkaya Oy Sibel , İnal Serkan , Özdemir Ali Ekber
Published: December 2024

Appropriate operation of the dam reservoir in a hydroelectric power plant (HEPP) is necessary for energy planning, reservoir management, and efficient operation. For good energy planning, the operator needs to make an accurate estimate of the energy production capacity for the next day and plan for production when the energy need is highest. The energy produced in HEPPs depends on the level of water stored in the reservoir, which is directly connected to the reservoir flow. As the water level in the reservoir varies throughout the year depending on climatic conditions, it is important to estimate energy production in order to operate the HEPP most effectively. In this study, the next-day energy production of the HEPP was estimated using a neural network with two hidden layers, each with 10 neurons. A neural network with a hidden layer of 20 neurons was used to estimate future electricity prices and the best hours for market clearing price (MCP). This study found that using short-term training provided the best hourly estimation of MCP, with an average accuracy of 90%; the daily estimation of MCP was ≥95%.
The Use and Impact of Virtual Reality Programs Supported by Aromatherapy for Older Adults: A Scoping Review
Authors: Hung Lillian , Wong Joey , Wong Karen Lok Yi , Son Rynnie Cin Ee , Van Mary , Mortenson W. Ben , Lim Angelica , Boger Jennifer , Wallsworth Christine , Zhao Yong
Published: December 2024

Both virtual reality (VR) and aromatherapy have shown significant potential in enhancing the health and well-being of older adults. Aromatherapy has been noted to improve the immersive quality of VR experiences. However, the combined use of these interventions for older adults has not been systematically explored. This scoping review aims to identify existing VR programs supported by aromatherapy and evaluate their outcomes on older adults’ well-being. Following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and PRISMA-ScR guidelines, the review included both published and unpublished studies. A search across ten databases yielded 901 publications, from which six studies were analyzed, involving 94 participants with a mean age of 70 to 83 years. Results revealed positive impacts on well-being, cognition, and social engagement. Outcome measures included physical, psychological, emotional, and cognitive aspects like spatial orientation, stress, happiness, memory, and social interaction. Benefits included enhanced spatial awareness, memory, happiness, and reduced stress. Multisensory VR environments also fostered socialization through shared experiences and nostalgia. However, the individual differences in VR experiences indicate a need for personalized content. Despite promising findings, limited evidence supports clinical application in nursing practice. Further research is required to validate the health benefits of combining VR with aromatherapy.
High-Impedance Fault Detection in DC Microgrid Lines Using Open-Set Recognition
Authors: Grcić Ivan , Pandžić Hrvoje
Published: December 2024

Detection of high-impedance faults in direct current microgrid lines presents a challenge for most conventional protection schemes because the magnitude of the fault current is similar to other transients that occur during normal operation. However, the waveform of high-impedance faults differs from that of other transients as it is characterized by a repetitive and nonlinear pattern caused by current reignition. Various methods have been proposed to exploit fault response waveforms for detecting high-impedance faults, including those based on deep discriminative intelligent classification. Different from previous works that focus on closed-set classification, this study frames fault detection as an open-set recognition problem, employing a neural network as the classifier. The resulting approach enables the detection of high-impedance faults as outliers from the normal operating states of microgrid lines with passive constant impedance loads and requires only the Fourier transform of the current signal as input to the neural network. Remarkably, the proposed solution eliminates the need for hard-to-model high-impedance faults in the training dataset and hence is more generally applicable. The proposed method consistently outperforms commercially available high-impedance fault detection systems, achieving high accuracy in fault detection.