bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LncRNA of peripheral blood mononuclear cells: HYMAI acts as a potential diagnostic and therapeutic biomarker for female major depressive disorder
Authors: Bu Tianyi , Yang Jiarun , Zhou Jiawei , Liu Yeran , Qiao Kexin , Wang Yan , Zhang Jili , Zhao Erying , Owura Boakye Kwame , Qiu Xiaohui , Qiao Zhengxue , Yang Yanjie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

As a common and complex mental disorder, major depressive disorder (MDD) has brought a huge burden and challenges globally. Although the incidence of female MDD is twice that of male MDD, there are still no accurate diagnostic and treatment criteria for female MDD. The potential of long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) as efficient and accurate diagnostic and therapeutic biomarkers provides more possibilities for early and accurate diagnosis of MDD.

Methods

First, the differential expression profile of lncRNAs in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) between MDD patients and healthy controls was established based on high-throughput sequencing analysis. Then, the potential biomarker was screened out by quantifying differentially expressed lncRNAs based on quantitative real-time PCR. To further investigate the function of biomarkers in the pathogenesis of MDD, bioinformatics analysis on downstream target genes was carried out.

Results

The expression profile screened out 300 differentially expressed lncRNAs. HYMAI was proved to be the potential diagnostic biomarker. Its expression levels were significantly higher in MDD patients than in healthy controls with high potential diagnostic value. Based on bioinformatics analysis, a HYMAI–miRNA–mRNA network and a protein–protein interaction network were established, which also showed that HYMAI is closely related to MDD.

Discussion

Our findings showed that the dysregulated expression of lncRNA HYMAI may be the pathophysiological basis of women suffering from MDD. Here, insight into the molecular mechanism of women’s susceptibility to MDD is shown. Meanwhile, a new perspective for future female MDD prevention, diagnosis and treatment, evaluation, detection, and intervention is provided.
Gender differences in ADHD and impulsivity among alcohol or alcohol- and cocaine-dependent patients
Authors: Roncero Carlos , Remón-Gallo Diego , García-Ullán LLanyra , Vicente-Hernández Begoña , Buch-Vicente Barbara , Palma-Álvarez Raul Felipe , Grau-López Lara , González-Bolaños Kristofer Ramon , Álvarez-Navares Ana , Pérez Jésus , Aguilar Lourdes
Published: February 2025

Background

Impulsivity plays a fundamental role in the realm of addiction as is considered a risk factor for addiction. Moreover, it influences the age of onset, severity, and therapeutic management of addictions. The aim of this study was to explore measures of impulsivity in a cohort of male and female diagnosed with Alcohol Use Disorder (AUD) and contrast these findings with those from a group with Alcohol and Cocaine Use Disorder (ACUD).

Methodology

A total of 204 patients (153 men and 51 women) underwent evaluation using Adult ADHD Self-Report Scale (ASRS), Barrat Impulsiveness Scale (BIS-11), Zuckerman-Kuhlman Personality Questionnaire (ZKPQ), Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), Beck Depression Inventory (BDI) and State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI).

Results

A total of 24.6% of the sample (21.9% AUD group and 32.2% ACUD group) screened positive for ADHD. Differences were observed in Total Impulsivity (T(199) =-2.587, p=.010), with the mean score being higher in the ACUD group. Gender differences were noted with ADHD exhibiting a significant explanatory power for impulsivity (greater than 37%) in women compared to men, where its relevance is minimal. Among women, an inverse relationship was found between impulsivity and activity and sociability, in contrast to men, where the inverse relationship was with intolerance to isolation. Both men and women showed associations between ADHD and elevated levels of anxiety and depression. Study limitations and practical implications are discussed.

Conclusions

Although this is an observational study and should be develop a longitudinal study, we detected that the presence of ADHD in addicted women significantly influences impulsivity and should be systematically assessed due to the differences in the clinical approach.
Barriers to the implementation of psychosocial interventions on acute mental health wards: an ethnographic observational study
Authors: Berry Katherine , Johnston Isobel , Wilson Paul , Haddock Gillian , Bucci Sandra , Lovell Karina , Price Owen , Beinaraviciute Adele , Gilworth Gill , Kaur Sonalia , Morley Helen , Penn Georgina , Raphael Jessica , Samji Mica , Drake Richard J. , Edge Dawn
Published: February 2025

Background

It is notoriously challenging to deliver psychosocial interventions on acute mental health wards. This paper presents an ethnographic observational study which captured how ward and staff processes impacted on the delivery of a psychosocial intervention called TULIPS (Talk, Understand and Listen for Inpatient Settings). Although the paper is focused on one specific intervention, the findings have implications for the delivery of other psychosocial interventions within acute mental health settings.

Method

We carried out participant observation across 6 case studies wards all participating in the intervention arm of a cluster randomised controlled trial evaluating the TULIPS intervention compared to treatment as usual. Trained researchers observed ward environments, activities and social interactions taking detailed field notes which were later subject to thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were generated from field notes relating to aspects of the ward culture and staff behaviours which were barriers or facilitators to the delivery of the TULIPS intervention. Theme one highlighted how the person-centred nature of the TULIPS model was at odds with the pre-existing culture of the wards which favoured blanket rules. Theme two highlighted how staff prioritised task-oriented quantifiable activities which clashed with the emphasis the TULIPS model placed on relationship building. The third theme highlighted the presence of conflict between different groups of staff working on the ward and theme four highlighted the stressful nature of the ward environment which drove staff to seek refuge from patient facing activities including TULIPS related activities.

Conclusions

In order to successfully engage with the delivery of psychosocial interventions on acute mental health wards, staff need access to supportive leadership which champions psychological interventions, as well as training, supervision and support systems which value the demanding nature of working on mental health inpatient wards.
Subgroups of non-suicidal self-injury in a large diverse sample of online help-seekers
Authors: Kruzan Kaylee P. , Washburn Jason J. , Aaby David , Nguyen Theresa , Mohr David C.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Many young people access information and resources for nonsuicidal self-injury (NSSI) online; yet our understanding of who accesses such information is limited. NSSI is a behavior with varied presentations. Understanding heterogeneity can help guide person-centered intervention. The present study aimed to (1) empirically identify classes of individuals with NSSI and (2) compare the classes according to demographic and clinical characteristics.

Methods

Data were collected from a survey posted to a national advocacy group website. Latent class analysis was used to derive classes based on characteristics associated with NSSI severity. Relationships between the latent classes and variables along five dimensions (behavior change, consequences or life interference, expectancies, functions, and NSSI across lifetime) were explored via logistic regression models.

Results

11,262 individuals reporting past month NSSI were included in analyses. The 4-class model provided the most clinically interpretable groups. Class 1 was the smallest (16.8%), scored highest on all items and reported the youngest age of onset. Class 3 was the largest (31.8%), scored lowest on all items and reported the latest age of onset. Classes 2 (29.3%) and 4 (22.2%) had moderate scores on most items and differed in levels of suicidal ideation.

Conclusion

Classes presented with more severe symptoms than what is typical in samples in extant literature underscoring the importance of tailoring interventions for dissemination in online contexts.
Socioeconomic disparities in HPV vaccine uptake: multivariable analysis of vaccination data from Tianjin (2018–2023)
Authors: Xiang Jing , Sun Xuan
Published: February 2025

Objectives

As the first socio-demographic profiling of HPV vaccines in Chinese cities, this study assesses equity implications through compositional analysis of covered populations, with multilevel examination of vaccine-type selection determinants.

Method

Utilizing HPV vaccination data obtained from the Jinnan Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) spanning from 2018 to 2023, we conducted a retrospective analysis. Hierarchical logistic regression was employed to model the joint effects of age, ethnicity, occupation, and urban–rural residence on vaccination behaviors. Vaccine type preference was categorized as bivalent, quadrivalent, or nonavalent.

Result

Three key disparities were revealed in the analysis. Age-stratified access revealed the highest proportion of recipients among women aged 33–38 years (29.6%) and 39–44 years (21.9%), contrasting with less than 1% participation in the 9–14 year-old cohort. Educationally, 87.3% held at least a bachelor’s degree, compared to 12.7% with below-college education (χ2 = 6048.89, p < 0.001). Clear urban–rural divide, with 99.7% of recipients in urban areas and just 0.3% in rural areas (χ2 = 76.79, p < 0.001). Vaccine-type selection showed socioeconomic patterns, with nonavalent vaccines preferred by urban professionals (OR = 1.577, 95% CI: 1.16–2.142) and those with incomes above 5000 yuan (OR = 1.958, 95% CI: 0.26–3.527).

Conclusion

Demonstrating Hart’s Inverse Care Law, Tianjin’s program disproportionately immunizes socioeconomically secure urbanites. We propose: (1) school-based mandates for pre-sexual debut cohorts; (2) rural vaccination-social insurance integration; (3) domestic 9-valent vaccine development with needs-based subsidies. These evidence-based reforms are critical for achieving equitable 90% coverage by 2030.
Development and validation of a questionnaire to measure COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy within the Romanian industrial laborers
Authors: Turcu-Stiolica Adina , Boicea Ancuta Ramona , Nechita Florina , Surugiu Roxana , Dumitra Gheorghe Gindrovel , Oancea Carmen Nicoleta , Pîrlog Mihail Cristian
Published: February 2025

The identification and quantification of sources of vaccine hesitancy among industrial workers in Romania have become crucial for developing effective strategies to facilitate the vaccination process. Our study included employees, both with and without comorbidities, who work in industrial companies. The goal was to develop a scale to assess COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy in Romania. This proposed scale has been designated as the Romanian COVID-19 Vaccine Hesitancy (RO-CVH) scale. The survey encompassed both the demographic characteristics of the respondents and questions related to their perceptions of COVID-19 vaccination. A three-stage process was used to develop the RO-CVH which includes (1) item generation; (2) item-refinement (pilot testing, exploratory factor analysis); and (3) scale validation. The fifteen items loaded onto three factors using exploratory factor analysis, explaining 63% of the total variance. The three factors were labelled as “Confidence in information regarding the COVID-19 vaccine,” “Safety and efficacy of the COVID-19 vaccine,” and “COVID-19 vaccination as a means of controlling the population.” The content validity of the scale was established, and it will be utilized to comprehend the behavior of industrial workers in Romania during similar future outbreaks, particularly regarding the acceptance of mitigatory vaccines. Based on the insights from this scale, future interventions could be designed to reduce vaccine hesitancy.
Felony disenfranchisement laws and racial inequities in women's self-rated health
Authors: Hing Anna K. , Judson Jé , Candil Escobar Marian
Published: February 2025

Objectives

To determine if more strict state-level felony disenfranchisement laws, which are a form of structural racism, are associated with worse self-rated health, and if this association is stronger for Black women compared to white women.

Methods

Using Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) 2021, American Community Survey 2017–2021, and State Felony Disenfranchisement Laws in 2020 from the “Locked Out Report” by the Sentencing Project, we fit hierarchical linear models to estimate changes in self-rated health with state felony disenfranchisement laws for 185,833 Black and white women, stratified by race, in 49 states (excluding Florida).

Results

We found a significant positive association between more restrictive disenfranchisement and worse self-rated health for Black women (b = 0.08, SE = 0.03, p < 0.01), but not white women, in the fully adjusted model.

Conclusions

Stricter state-level felony disenfranchisement laws were associated with worse self-rated health for Black women but not white women suggesting that policies of disenfranchisement may exacerbate racial inequities in health.
A study on the impact of chronic diseases and depressive symptoms comorbidity on the risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults people based on the CHARLS database
Authors: Zu Biqi , Wang Ning , Fan Lijun , Huang Jinsong , Zhang Yunan , Wu Yulan , Du Maosheng
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the combined impact of comorbid chronic diseases and depressive symptoms on the risk of cognitive impairment in middle-aged and older adults populations. It also explored the interaction mechanisms and provided scientific evidence for cognitive health interventions.

Methods

Data from the 2020 wave of the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) were used, including 16,890 participants aged 45 years and older. Overlap weighting was applied to control for confounding factors such as gender, age, BMI, ADL, and smoking status. Multivariate logistic regression models assessed the combined effect of chronic diseases and depressive symptoms on cognitive impairment risk. Subgroup analyses were conducted to explore gender, age, and education level differences. Sensitivity analyses, including propensity score matching (PSM) and E-value estimation, were performed to evaluate the robustness of the findings.

Results

The coexistence of chronic diseases and depressive symptoms significantly increased the risk of cognitive impairment, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 1.22 (95% CI: 1.14–1.31, p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses revealed that this combined effect was more pronounced in males, individuals aged ≥60 years, and those with lower education levels (elementary school or below). Overlap weighting effectively balanced baseline characteristics, while sensitivity analyses and E-value calculations confirmed the robustness of the results.

Conclusion

Comorbid chronic diseases and depressive symptoms exert a significant cumulative effect on cognitive impairment risk in middle-aged and older adults populations through complex interaction mechanisms. This study addresses a research gap and provides evidence for personalized disease management and psychological interventions. Future research should further explore the mechanisms of these interactions and validate the findings in diverse populations to enhance generalizability.
Comparison of characteristics of bimanual coordinated movements in older adults with frailty, pre-frailty, and robust health
Authors: Fujikawa Shoya , Murata Shin , Goda Akio , Sawai Shun , Yamamoto Ryosuke , Shizuka Yusuke , Maru Takayuki , Nakagawa Kotaro , Nakano Hideki
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Despite the growing concern regarding a potential increase in the number of older adults with frailty owing to an aging global population, the characteristics of bimanual coordination in such older adults remain unclear. This study aimed to compare bimanual coordinated movements among community-dwelling older adults with frailty, pre-frailty, and robust health and identify the specific characteristics of these movements in older adults with frailty.

Methods

Participants were categorized into frail, pre-frail, and robust groups based on Kihon Checklist scores. They performed bimanual coordination tasks in-phase (tapping the thumb and index finger together as fast as possible) and anti-phase (alternating the movement between the left and right fingers), and the task parameters were compared among the groups.

Results

The total travel distance during the anti-phase task in the frail group was significantly shorter than that in the robust group. However, all three groups showed lower finger dexterity during the anti-phase task than in the in-phase task and the left hand than in the right hand.

Conclusion

Older adults with frailty exhibit less movement during bimanual coordination tasks than robust older adults, suggesting that such tasks may be useful tools for assessing frailty.
Comparison of 3D and 2D area measurement of acute burn wounds with LiDAR technique and deep learning model
Authors: Chang Che Wei , Wang Hanwei , Lai Feipei , Christian Mesakh , Chen Huang Shih , Yi Tsai Han
Published: February 2025

It is generally understood that wound areas appear smaller when calculated using 2D images, but the factors contributing to this discrepancy are not well-defined. With the rise of 3D photography, 3D segmentation, and 3D measurement, more accurate assessments have become possible. We developed an application called the Burn Evaluation Network (B.E.N.), which combines a deep learning model with LiDAR technology to perform both 2D and 3D measurements. In the first part of our study, we used burn wound templates to verify that the results of 3D segmentation closely matched the actual size of the burn wound and to examine the effect of limb curvature on the 3D/2D area ratio. Our findings revealed that smaller curvatures, indicative of flatter surfaces, were associated with lower 3D/2D area ratios, and larger curvatures corresponded to higher ratios. For instance, the back had the lowest average curvature (0.027 ± 0.004) and the smallest 3D/2D area ratio (1.005 ± 0.055). In the second part of our study, we applied our app to real patients, measuring burn areas in both 3D and 2D. Regions such as the head and neck (ratio: 1.641) and dorsal foot (ratio: 1.908) exhibited significantly higher 3D/2D area ratios. Additionally, images containing multiple burn wounds also showed a larger ratio (1.656) and greater variability in distribution. These findings suggest that 2D segmentation tends to significantly underestimate surface areas in highly curved regions or when measurements require summing multiple wound areas. We recommend using 3D measurements for wounds located on areas like the head, neck, and dorsal foot, as well as for cases involving multiple wounds or large areas, to improve measurement accuracy.
Multi-energy calibration in plasma emission spectrometry: elemental analysis of animal feeds
Authors: Cora Jofre Florencia , Barros Ariane I. , Nóbrega Joaquim A. , Savio Marianela
Published: February 2025

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Multi-Energy Calibration (MEC) for multielemental analysis in animal feeds using plasma-based optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES and MIP-OES). The aim was to improve accuracy in detecting essential minerals by overcoming matrix interferences that affect instrumental techniques. Swine feed samples from different growth stages were analyzed, focusing on essential minerals for animal health and productivity, such as Ca, Co, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Na, P, and Zn. The MEC strategy utilizes multiple wavelengths per element, reducing calibration complexity and enhancing accuracy by using only two calibration solutions per sample. Results demonstrate that MEC improves recoveries (80%–105%) when compared to traditional external calibration (EC). The limits of quantification (LOQs) ranged from 0.09 mg kg⁻1 for Mn to 31 mg kg⁻1 for Ca and Na using MEC-ICP-OES, and from 0.08 mg kg⁻1 for Mn to 354 mg kg⁻1 for P using MEC-MIP-OES. For EC, they ranged from 0.4 mg kg⁻1 for Co to 195 mg kg⁻1 for K with ICP-OES and from 2.0 mg kg⁻1 for Mg to 607 mg kg⁻1 for Fe with MIP-OES. MEC provides high precision and matrix-matching capabilities. This makes MEC a reliable method for complex feed matrices, supporting more accurate feed formulations to ensure optimal livestock nutrition.
Introducing artificial intelligence and sperm epigenetics in the fertility clinic: a novel foundation for diagnostics and prediction modelling
Authors: Soubry Adelheid
Published: February 2025

Worldwide, infertility is a rising problem. A couple's lifestyle, age and environmental exposures can interfere with reproductive health. The scientific field tries to understand the various processes how male and female factors may affect fertility, but translation to the clinic is limited. I here emphasize potential reasons for failure in optimal treatment planning and especially why current prediction modelling falls short. First, Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) has become a mainstream solution for couples experiencing infertility, while potential causes of infertility remain unexplored or undetermined. For instance, the role of men is generally left out of preconceptional testing and care. Second, regularly used statistical or computational methods to estimate pregnancy outcomes miss important biological and environmental factors, including features from the male side (e.g., age, smoking, obesity status, alcohol use and occupation), as well as genetic and epigenetic characteristics. I suggest using an integrated approach of biostatistics and machine learning methods to improve diagnostics and prediction modelling in the fertility clinic. The novelty of this concept includes the use of empirically collected information on the sperm epigenome combined with readily available data from medical records from both partners and lifestyle factors. As the reproductive field needs well-designed models at different levels, derivatives are needed. The objectives of patients, clinicians, and embryologists differ slightly, and mathematical models need to be adapted accordingly. A multidisciplinary approach where patients are seen by both, clinicians and biomedically skilled counsellors, could help provide evidence-based assistance to improve pregnancy success. Next, when it concerns factors that may change the ability to produce optimal embryos in ART, the embryologist would benefit from a personalized prediction model, including medical history of the patient as well as genetic and epigenetic data from easily accessible germ cells, such as sperm.
Barriers to transitioning to circular economy within firms in Western Balkans countries
Authors: Rexhepi Mahmutaj Lura , Jusufi Nora , Krasniqi Besnik , Mazrekaj Leonita , Krasniqi Tringë
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The circular economy has gained considerable attention within academia and industry as a sustainable alternative to linear economic models that minimize waste and maximize resource value in the production cycle. Despite growing interest in adopting circular economy practices within firms, numerous challenges remain. We address this gap by investigating the barriers to transitioning to a circular economy, as the current implementation in practice often needs to be more complete.

Methods

Using a quantitative approach, this research examines the CE barriers influencing Western Balkans firms to become more environmentally responsible business. The analysis is based on data from the Regional Cooperation Council's Business Balkan Barometer 2024 database, compiled through the Business Opinion Survey, for which logistic regression analysis was employed.

Results

The findings reveal that firms reporting barriers, such as added costs, lack of skills and experience, lack of consumer demand, and lack of government subsidies, are statistically significant in the probability of becoming more environmentally responsible business. By contrast, the lack of legal and regulatory framework was not found to be significant.

Discussion

The study contributes a comprehensive analysis of these barriers that validate and complement previous research, offering stakeholders within Western Balkan countries an additional perspective to overcome the current challenges, thereby fostering the transition to becoming a more environmentally responsible business.
Effects of coaches’ feedback on psychological outcomes in youth football: an intervention study
Authors: Berntzen Iben , Lagestad Pål
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to examine how feedback from the coach influences football players' experiences of well-being, mastery, pleasure, satisfaction, development, being seen by the coach, and motivation in two different groups.

Methods

The study used an intervention with a crossover experimental approach, where 95 players aged 14–18 that participated in sports clubs and specialized football classes in a town in Mid-Norway, participated in the same organized training session with the same coach in every session—one without feedback and one with feedback from the coach, answering a questionnaire after each training session. The questionnaire was developed with a total of seven questions with high face validity for each of the variables. The study was approved by the Norwegian data protection agency, and a written informed consent for participation in this study was provided by the participants' legal guardians/next of kin. Wilcoxon nonparametric tests were used to examine differences between the session without and the session with feedback among players in the two groups for each variable.

Results

Analyzing all players, the results showed that when feedback was given, it led to a significant increase in mastery, the experience of being seen by the coach, and motivation, compared to the same training session when they did not receive feedback. Furthermore, analyzing only players who participated in sports studies with a specialization in football, the results showed that giving feedback led to a significant increase in well-being, pleasure, satisfaction, and development. Finally, analyzing only players who participated in sports teams and did not specialize in football in sports programs showed that when feedback was given, it led to a significant increase in, the experience of being noticed by the coach, and motivation—but a decrease in development, compared to the same training session when they did not receive feedback.

Discussion

This study introduces a unique and novel intervention approach focusing on the effects of feedback. The findings suggest that football coaches' feedback has a positive outcome for several psychological factors of young players. The findings of the study highlight the importance of football coaches' feedback.
Delineation of site-specific management zones to enhance nutrient status, growth, and quality of green onion (Allium cepa L.) in a newly reclaimed area in Ismailia, Egypt
Authors: Ali Abdelraouf M. , Aboelghar Mohamed , Morsy Noha , Rebouh Nazih Y. , Kucher Dmitry E. , Hassan Hassan A. , Abdeldaym Emad A. , Jalhoum Mohamed E. M. , Belal Abdel-Aziz
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Precision farming is an agricultural management practice that addresses various challenges by observing and measuring the variability of field crops, utilizing accurate and timely information about agricultural resources. A fundamental aspect of precision farming is the use of site-specific management zones (SSMZs). SSMZs improve agricultural management by customizing treatments for specific production zones, thereby conserving resources while enhancing crop productivity and quality. This research aimed to investigate the application of magnesium fertilizer in SSMZs for Allium cepa, as opposed to traditional methods based on soil and plant attributes.

Methods

To achieve this, a 10-meter grid-sampling scheme was implemented across the field, comprising 12 points where soil samples were collected from the top 20 cm before planting green onions in June 2021. Normalized Difference Vegetative Index (NDVI) data during the harvest stage of the green onion growth cycle were sourced from Sentinel-2 satellite imagery at each sampling point. Yield mapping was performed at harvest. Key yieldlimiting factors were identified through stepwise multiple analyses, which included soil properties (such as organic matter) and canopy parameters (such as bulb diameter, phosphorus, magnesium, and NDVI).

Results

Overlay maps illustrated soil parameters, growth, and biochemical measurements, and evaluated the effect of foliar spraying with different magnesium sources on the growth, productivity, and quality of green onions, indicating three distinct SSMZs: zone (I), zone (II), and zone (III), with areas of 1.97 ha, 1.35 ha, and 2.79 ha, respectively. The use of magnesium oxide nanoparticles (nMgO) in a site-specific management zone resulted in a remarkable green onion yield of 152.14 tons/ha. The assessed soil properties and plant characteristics revealed that foliar applications of (nMgO) significantly improved the nutritional status, growth, and quality of green onions (Allium cepa L.).

Discussion

The modeling process effectively classified the study area into three management zones for soil treatments and three additional management zones for plant treatments. Implementing such a process will lower the costs of soil analysis and enhance overall agricultural income.
The role of pulmonary metastasectomy in patients suffering pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma with lung metastases: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zhao Pengcheng , Jiang Qiaoqi , Xue Kang , Liu Xiaofeng , Tian Bole
Published: February 2025

Background

Because of the high rate of recurrence, the prognosis of patients with pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is still very poor despite underwent pancreatectomy and adjuvant chemotherapy. A few reports have suggested the feasibility and efficacy of surgical resection for pulmonary metastases of PDAC. However, the role of metastasectomy of recurrent PDAC remains controversial. The aim of this study is to evaluate the benefits of pulmonary metastasectomy in PDAC patients with lung metastases.

Methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library databases and extracted the hazard ratio (HR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) from eligible studies. Pooled HR with 95% CI were used to reveal the association between pulmonary metastasectomy and survival.

Results

The meta-analysis encompassed data from nine studies, comprising 467 patients suffered PDAC with lung metastasis. The results (the pooled HR: 0.637, 95% CI: 0.531–0.764, I2 = 61.5%, p value = 0.008) indicated that patients with lung metastasis who underwent pulmonary metastasectomy seemed to have better survival when compared with patients who underwent only chemotherapy. The robustness of these pooled results was verified by our subgroup analysis and sensitivity analysis. Moreover, the varying sample sizes among studies contribute to the heterogeneity in the pooled hazard ratio (HR) for survival, as indicated by the meta-regression analysis (p value = 0.045).

Conclusion

Pulmonary metastasectomy could prolong the survival in patients with lung metastases from PDAC. However, the present study is based on a relatively small number of patients and may include a selection bias. More multi-institutional prospective study is needed to evaluated the clinical value of pulmonary metastasectomy.
A Design Guide to Tapered Conformable Pressure Tanks for Liquid Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Malfroy Joren , Steelant Johan , Vandepitte Dirk
Published: February 2025

Liquid hydrogen has the potential to significantly reduce in-flight carbon emissions in the aviation industry. Among the most promising aircraft configurations for future hydrogen-powered aviation are the blended wing body and the pure flying wing configurations. However, their tapered and flattened airframe designs pose a challenge in accommodating liquid hydrogen storage tanks. This paper presents a design guide to tapered conformable pressure tanks for liquid hydrogen storage. The proposed tank configurations feature a multi-bubble layout and are subject to low internal differential pressure. The objective is to provide tank designers with simple geometric rules and practical guidelines to simplify the design process of tapered multi-bubble pressure tanks. Various tank configurations are discussed, starting with a simple tapered two-bubble tank and advancing to more complex tapered configurations with a multi-segment and multi-bubble layout. A comprehensive design methodology is established, providing tank designers with a step-by-step design procedure and highlighting the practical guidelines in each step of the design process.
Cheese Whey Characterization for Co-Composting with Solid Organic Wastes and the Agronomic Value of the Compost Obtained
Authors: Ramos-Romero Steven , Gavilanes-Terán Irene , Idrovo-Novillo Julio , Idrovo-Gavilanes Alessandro , Valverde-Orozco Víctor , Paredes Concepción
Published: February 2025

Cheese production generates a large amount of liquid waste called cheese whey (CW). The management of CW is not optimized in Ecuador since a large proportion of it is discharged into the soil or effluents, causing significant environmental impacts. For this reason, the co-composting of whey with solid organic wastes can be a suitable method for its treatment for small companies generating this liquid waste due to its effectiveness and low cost. In this study, we analyzed 10 CW samples from different small companies in the Mocha canton (Tungurahua, Ecuador) to determine specific physicochemical and chemical parameters. Subsequently, a waste pile was formed with crop residues (corn and beans) and cow manure, which was composted using the turned pile composting system. Throughout the composting process, the temperature of the pile was controlled, its moisture was maintained between 40 and 60% by adding whey, and several physicochemical, chemical, and biological properties were determined. The results showed that the CW presented a high organic load, notable macronutrient content, and low heavy metal concentrations, all of which are beneficial for its co-composting with other organic solid wastes. The only limiting factors involved in using large amounts of whey in the composting process were the low pH values of the acid CW and the high concentrations of salts. It was also observed that co-composting CW with agro-livestock wastes was a viable strategy to treat these wastes and produce compost with stabilized and humified organic matter and remarkable agricultural value.
Wheat Nitrogen Use and Grain Protein Characteristics Under No-Tillage: A Greater Response to Drip Fertigation Compared to Intensive Tillage
Authors: Fan Yuyan , Li Wen , Zhang Limin , Song Jinxiao , Wang Depeng , Xue Jianfu , Wang Yuechao , Gao Zhiqiang
Published: February 2025

No-tillage (NT) has been widely recognized for significantly enhancing crop yield and nitrogen (N) use efficiency in dryland agricultural systems globally. However, in irrigated fields, NT has demonstrated adverse effects on wheat yield, and limited information is available regarding its impact on N uptake and use efficiencies, and grain protein characteristics. Previous studies concluded that drip fertigation (DF) achieved superior yield gain over the conventional N fertilizer broadcasting with flood irrigation (BF) under NT compared to rotary tillage (RT) and intensive tillage (PRT; first plowing followed by rotary tillage). This study measured tissue N concentration, grain protein content and composition, dough processing quality traits, and the activities of N metabolism enzymes in flag leaves and developing grains. The objectives were to (1) evaluate the response of N use traits and grain quality to DF, and (2) elucidate the relationship between gains in yield and N uptake across varying tillage methods. Results revealed that DF significantly increased N uptake by 35.4–38.0%, 22.1–22.2%, and 16.0–16.6% over BF under NT, RT, and PRT, respectively. This boosted N uptake predominantly contributed to enhanced N use efficiency (grain production per unit of total soil mineral and fertilizer N input). Regression analysis indicated that increased N pre-anthesis uptake was the primary driver of yield improvement by DF (r2 > 0.99, P < 0.01). Furthermore, NT demonstrated superior improvements by DF in N nutrition index, grain protein content, gliadin content, wet gluten content, and water absorption rate compared to RT and PRT. In conclusion, wheat N use and grain protein under NT responded greater to DF than intensive tillage. Therefore, our findings emphasize that transitioning from conventional water and N management to DF is an effective and practical strategy for enhancing N uptake, achieving high yield, improving N use efficiency, and enriching grain protein content, particularly under NT conditions.
Vitis vinifera L. Leaves as a Source of Phenolic Compounds with Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Potential
Authors: Acero Nuria , Manrique Jorge , Muñoz-Mingarro Dolores , Martínez Solís Isabel , Bosch Francisco
Published: February 2025

Vitis vinifera is a plant known since ancient times mainly for the interest of its fruits. However, its leaves have traditionally been consumed as food in some regions of the Mediterranean basin and as a medicinal remedy. In this work, the phytochemical profile of this part of the plant, which is considered a bio-residue of viticultural processes, was analyzed (UHPLC-ESI(±)-QTOF-MS). Hydroxybenzoic acids, flavonols, and stilbenes are the main phenolic compounds identified. Its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory capacity were studied both in vitro and in cell culture. Grapevine leaves have a high capacity to scavenge free radicals, as well as to reduce oxidative stress induced by H2O2 in the HepG2 cell line. On the other hand, the methanolic extract of these leaves is capable of inhibiting lipoxygenase, an enzyme involved in inflammatory responses, with an IC50 of 1.63 μg/mL. In addition, the extract showed potent inhibition of NO production in LPS-stimulated RAW 264.7 cells. These results pointed out V. vinifera leaves as a powerful functional food with a high content of biologically active compounds. The enhancement of these by-products can be highly beneficial to food systems and contribute to the development of sustainable agriculture.
The Power of Machine Learning Methods and PSO in Air Quality Prediction
Authors: Cengil Emine
Published: February 2025

Monitoring and forecasting air quality is essential for public health and environmental management. It details the air’s cleanliness, pollution levels, and any related health risks that the general public may find concerning. This research investigates how effective machine learning techniques and particle swarm optimization are in predicting air quality. An array of machine learning algorithms, including XGBoost, support vector regression, linear regression, and random forest, was selected to ensure effective modeling outcomes. The models were trained on an open access dataset and performed performance evaluation. The answers from an on-site gas multisensor device in an Italian city were included in the dataset. The findings from the dataset were shown to accurately model and predict environmental factors affecting air quality (e.g., air temperature, humidity, indium oxide, tin oxide, NOx, NO2, etc.) using real-world air quality data. The experiments were repeated by optimizing the relevant machine learning methods with PSO. PSO is a metaheuristic optimization method widely used in feature selection and feature extraction processes. The metrics MAE, MSE, RMSE, and R2, commonly used to evaluate regression algorithms, were utilized to assess the models’ performances. Particle swarm optimization-based support vector regression performed best, with MAE, MSE, RMSE, and R2 values of 0.071, 0.015, 0.122, and 0.999, respectively. In addition, Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) analysis was performed to show which feature of the PSO-based SVR model was practical and to what extent. The results show that the proposed model successfully predicts air quality.
Cyclic Elasto-Plastic Behaviour of 51CrV4 Steel for Railway Parabolic Leaf Spring Design
Authors: Gomes Vítor M. G. , Dantas Rita , Correia José A. F. O. , de Jesus Abílio M. P.
Published: February 2025

Parabolic leaf springs are components typically found in suspensions of freight railway rolling stock. These components are produced in high-strength alloyed steel, DIN 51CrV4, to resist severe loading and environmental conditions. Despite the material’s good mechanical characteristics, the geometric notches and high surface roughness that features its leaves might raise local stress levels to values above the elastic limit, with cyclic elasto-plastic behaviour models being more appropriate. In this investigation, the parameters of the Chaboche model combining the kinematic and isotropic hardening models are determined using experimental data previously obtained in strain-controlled cyclic tests. Once the parameters of the cyclic hardening model are determined, they are validated using a finite element approach considering the Chaboche cyclic plasticity model. As a result, the material properties specified in this investigation can be used in the fatigue mechanical design of parabolic leaf springs made with 51CrV4 (local approaches to notches and at surface roughness level) or even in other components produced with the same steel.
Development, Experimental Assessment, and Application of a Vacuum-Driven Soft Bending Actuator
Authors: Gregov Goran , Vuković Tonia , Gašparić Leonardo , Pongrac Matija
Published: February 2025

This study presents the design, development, and experimental assessment of soft pneumatic actuators for achieving bending motion utilizing vacuum pressure, with their final application to soft robotic grippers. A novel soft actuator design is introduced, satisfying the following design requirements: safe operation without the risk of explosion, the ability to achieve large angular bending while overcoming significant forces, and the use of soft materials that are resistant to material fatigue. A vacuum-driven soft bending actuator (VSBA) was designed, incorporating a cylindrical ribbed bellow geometry and an integrated limiting element within its structure. Two variations of the VSBA were fabricated, each differing in the materials and manufacturing processes employed. The first version employs a cylindrical ribbed bellow made of thermoplastic rubber (TPR), while the other versions utilize heat-shrinkable polymer materials, resulting in an innovative manufacturing process capable of producing actuators in various sizes and shapes. This contributes to the analysis of how actuator geometry affects performance and enables its miniaturization. The performance of the novel VSBAs were experimentally assessed through measuring the bending angle, blocking force, and angular velocity–angle characteristics. The results confirmed a maximum bending angle of 140° corresponding to a bending ratio of 78%, a maximum blocking force of 110 N, and maximum angular velocity of 520°/s at a vacuum pressure of −0.8 bar. Finally, a soft robotic gripper was developed, consisting of three newly designed VSBAs. Experimental assessments demonstrated the gripper’s capability to grasp objects of various shapes, with a maximum holding force of 28 N.
Polar Code BP Decoding Optimization for Green 6G Satellite Communication: A Geometry Perspective
Authors: Zhu Chuanji , He Yuanzhi , Dou Zheng
Published: February 2025

The rapid evolution of mega-constellation networks and 6G satellite communication systems has ushered in an era of ubiquitous connectivity, yet their sustainability is threatened by the energy-computation dilemma inherent in high-throughput data transmission. Polar codes, as a coding scheme capable of achieving Shannon’s limit, have emerged as one of the key candidate coding technologies for 6G networks. Despite the high parallelism and excellent performance of their Belief Propagation (BP) decoding algorithm, its drawbacks of numerous iterations and slow convergence can lead to higher energy consumption, impacting system energy efficiency and sustainability. Therefore, research on efficient early termination algorithms has become an important direction in polar code research. In this paper, based on information geometry theory, we propose a novel geometric framework for BP decoding of polar codes and design two early termination algorithms under this framework: an early termination algorithm based on Riemannian distance and an early termination algorithm based on divergence. These algorithms improve convergence speed by geometrically analyzing the changes in soft information during the BP decoding process. Simulation results indicate that, when Eb/N0 is between 1.5 dB and 2.5 dB, compared to three classical early termination algorithms, the two early termination algorithms proposed in this paper reduce the number of iterations by 4.7–11% and 8.8–15.9%, respectively. Crucially, while this work is motivated by the unique demands of satellite networks, the geometric characterization of polar code BP decoding transcends specific applications. The proposed framework is inherently adaptable to any communication system requiring energy-efficient channel coding, including 6G terrestrial networks, Internet of Things (IoT) edge devices, and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms, thereby bridging theoretical coding advances with real-world scalability challenges.
Revealing the Unique Characteristics of Greek White Wine Made from Indigenous Varieties Through Volatile Composition and Sensory Properties
Authors: Nanou Evangelia , Metafa Maria , Bastian Susan E. P. , Kotseridis Yorgos
Published: February 2025

Greek wines made from the indigenous grape varieties Assyrtiko, Malagousia, Moschofilero and Roditis are attracting the interest of wine producers and consumers due to their aromatic characteristics. However, there are few studies that focus on the unique wine characteristics of each variety and the relationship between the composition of volatile compounds and sensory properties. Monovarietal white wines (2018 vintage) were analyzed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry to quantify 34 volatile compounds. Multivariate statistical analyses were used to investigate correlations between volatiles and sensory attributes identified by a trained panel. The results showed that the strongest aroma compounds were a group of terpenes, isoamyl acetate and phenylethyl acetate. Terpenes such as geraniol, α-terpineol, linalool and cis-rose oxide correlated with floral notes, especially in Moschofilero wines. In addition, isoamyl acetate contributed to the aroma of tropical fruits, especially banana, in the Roditis wines, while phenylethyl acetate correlated with rose, vanilla and fruity notes in both the Moschofilero and Roditis samples. The Assyrtiko wines and the Malagousia wines were mainly associated with compounds such as cis-3-hexen-1-ol and cis- and trans-furan linalool oxides, which may enhance fresh fruit and citrus aromas through synergistic effects. The common background aroma of the studied wines was mainly determined by higher alcohols, fatty acids and ethyl esters. This study provides a basis for understanding the typical aroma of white wines from indigenous Greek grape varieties, which will help producers develop targeted wine styles and will be useful for consumer promotion.