bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comprehensive health assessment of retired martial arts athletes: bone density, dietary intake, physical activity, and wellbeing
Authors: Alshaer Tasneem , Battikhi Nihad , Amawi Adam Tawfiq , Trabelsi Khalid , Jahrami Haitham , Bouedo Philippe , Ghazzawi Hadeel Ali
Published: February 2025

Regular physical activity offers benefits like enhanced bone density, which often persists post-retirement. However, retirement can lead to weight gain and changes in quality of life due to reduced physical activity. Therefore, this study investigates the long-term effects of elite athletic experience by comparing retired Jordanian male elite athletes (ages 40–50) with non-athletes of the same age. The differences were explored in weight changes, bone density, quality of life, happiness, stress, insomnia, physical activity, and dietary intake to understand how martial arts impact these health dimensions.

Methods

A descriptive case-control study was conducted among 30 retired male elite athletes and 20 age-matched non-athletes. Bone density and body composition were measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) scans. Additional assessments included anthropometric measurements, a 3-day dietary recall, physical activity (International Physical Activity Questionnaire), quality of life (WHOQOL), happiness (Subjective Happiness Scale), stress (Perceived Stress Scale), and insomnia (Insomnia Severity Index).

Results

Retired athletes showed significantly higher Z-scores for the left femur (neck and total) and the AP spine, with p-values <0.05. Among non-athletes, 65% had normal bone density with a Z-score ≥ −1.9 and a T-score > −1.1, 20% had abnormal bone density with a Z-score < −1.9, and 15% had osteopenia with a T-score between −1.1 and −2.4. In contrast, 100% of retired athletes had normal bone density with a Z-score ≥ −1.9 and a T-score > −1.1. Retired athletes exhibited greater weight changes than non-athletes, with a p-value <0.05; the average weight gain among retired athletes was 18.548 kg, and the mean weight gain among non-athletes was 4.3 kg. There were statistically significant mean differences in perceived stress levels between retired athletes and non-athletes with a p-value <0.05. In contrast, there were no statistically significant mean differences between the groups in quality of life, subjective happiness, and the Insomnia Severity Index.

Conclusion

The study reveals that retired elite athletes maintain better bone density but face greater weight gain and stress than their non-athlete counterparts. Both groups enjoy a high quality of life and low levels of insomnia. These findings underscore the importance of continued physical activity for health and suggest that both retired athletes and non-athletes should adopt a balanced lifestyle to manage weight and stress effectively.
Prehabilitation during neoadjuvant therapy in patients with cancer of the upper gastrointestinal tract and rectum—the study protocol
Authors: Chmelova Irina , Pastucha Dalibor , Hudecek Tomas , Guran Zdenek , Ciecotkova Sona , Martínek Lubomír , Zubikova Jana , Matlova Alena , Dolezel Jakub , Salounova Dana , Chmelo Jakub
Published: February 2025

Aims

The concept of prehabilitation, defined as interventions aimed at enhancing a patient's functional capacity prior to an impending physiological stressor, may contribute to reduced postoperative morbidity and mortality. The study's goal is to verify or refute the feasibility of a prehabilitation programme for two diagnostic patient groups during neoadjuvant chemo(radio)therapy, which is prescribed before the scheduled surgical procedure. This is a single group study design, with all patients enrolled receiving the intervention.

Methods

This is an interventional feasibility study of a prehabilitation programme in the form of physical training conducted at home. The training consists of progressively dosed walking and strength exercises for selected muscle groups. Data will be monitored telemetrically and also through telephone contact with participants. Primary outcomes include: the percentage of patients interested in participating in the study out of all patients indicated for neoadjuvant therapy at University Hospital Ostrava during the observed period, the percentage of patients who complete the prehabilitation programme until the date of surgery and individual patient compliance. Secondary outcomes include physical fitness parameters obtained from cardiopulmonary exercise testing, grip strength measured by a dynamometer, changes in body composition, EORTC QLQ-C30 quality of life questionnaire, and a questionnaire on the subjective perception of the exercise programme. Both primary and secondary outcomes will be compared between study arms (two diagnostic groups). The study is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT05646043.

Conclusion

The results of this study can serve as a foundation for larger, multicentre, controlled studies in the future.
The FIT FIRST 10 dose-response study: evaluation of implementation outcomes
Authors: Koch Sofie , Eckert Caroline , Ntoumanis Nikos , Thøgersen-Ntoumani Cecilie , Cimenti Chiara , Larsen Malte Nejst , Krustrup Peter , Skov Christiansen Lars Breum
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Increasing physical activity (PA) levels among children is critical to mitigate health risks associated with physical inactivity. Schools have been highlighted as ideal setting for promoting PA. However, existing school-based PA programs often face implementation challenges. The FIT FIRST 10 (FF10) multi-sport program has been introduced in Denmark, aiming to increase PA and to enhance children's health, fitness, and well-being. This study evaluates the implementation of the FF10 program for 2nd and 3rd graders.

Materials and methods

The FF10 program was implemented in a 20-week cluster randomized controlled trial across 27 schools. Schools were assigned to a control arm or intervention arms receiving either 3 (full dose) or 1.5 (half dose) FF10 40-min lessons weekly. Teachers received a one-day training session, comprehensive manuals, and necessary equipment. Data were collected from teachers via logbooks documenting implementation fidelity, and an online questionnaire assessing program acceptability, appropriateness, and feasibility, and teachers' capability, opportunity, and motivation for implementing the FF10 program.

Results

A total of 18 intervention schools with 36 classes participated in this study. Program fidelity was high in both intervention groups (2.8 and 2.0 session/week for full and half-dose, respectively). Confidence intervals indicated no differences between the two intervention groups for any outcomes. Teachers (n = 32) in both groups rated FF10 moderately acceptable, appropriate, and feasible (3.5–4.0 out of a potential maximum of 5). Both groups exhibited moderate physical and psychological capabilities (3.5–4.0) and high social opportunities (>4.0), but poor motivation scores (<3.5), particularly regarding the perceived benefits and automatization in delivering the FF10 program.

Conclusion

The FF10 program was almost delivered as intended, but time constraints, limited facilities, and modest teacher motivation might have hindered implementation. Reducing the program's dosage did not improve implementation outcomes, emphasizing the need for ongoing support to boost teacher motivation and integration of the program into school timetables.
Analgesic efficacy of hydromorphone in American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis)
Authors: Henke Scott E. , Wester David B. , Eversole Cord B. , Huerta Javier O. , Hilton Clayton D. , Sladky Kurt K.
Published: February 2025

Background

American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) are maintained in zoos, aquaria, and farms for educational, research, and production purposes. The standard of veterinary medical care and welfare for captive reptiles requires managing pain and discomfort under conditions deemed painful in mammals. While analgesic efficacy and pharmacokinetic data for several reptile species are published, data with respect to analgesic efficacy in crocodilians are clearly lacking.

Objective

The objective of this study was to determine the analgesic efficacy of hydromorphone in alligators.

Methods

Female American alligators (N = 9; 57 months of age) were exposed to mechanical noxious stimuli at multiple anatomic sites using von Frey filaments ranging in size from 1.65 to 6.65 grams-force, and their behavioral reactions recorded. In order to evaluate analgesic efficacy, hydromorphone (0.5 mg/kg SC) was administered in the axillary region to the same alligators and the mechanical noxious stimuli were repeated and behaviors recorded.

Results

Administration of hydromorphone contributed to a range from 62 to 92% reduced avoidance reactions to mechanical noxious stimuli for two anatomic sites (i.e., naris and lateral mandible, respectively).

Conclusion

Alligators did not appear to experience clinically relevant respiratory depression, hypothermia, or other adverse reactions. Therefore, hydromorphone shows promise as an analgesic option to be administered under painful conditions in American alligators.
Effects of GS-CA1 on nuclear envelope-associated early HIV-1 infection steps
Authors: Singh Amita , Fourcassié Victor , Gonçalves Dos Santos Karen Cristine , Chelbi Hocine , Merindol Natacha , Droit Arnaud , Germain Hugo , Berthoux Lionel
Published: February 2025

The novel HIV-1 drugs GS-CA1 and the recently approved lenacapavir (GS-6207) target the viral structural protein capsid (CA). However, their multiple mechanisms of action have not been fully characterized. Here, we investigated the effects of GS-CA1 on the early stages of HIV-1 infection, specifically the steps involving the nuclear envelope, in comparison to the antiviral cytokine IFN-β. Mass spectrometry data indicated that nuclear envelope proteins were only modestly affected by either GS-CA1 treatment or HIV-1 infection, but combining the two had a more significant impact, altering the levels of many proteins including proteasomal components. GS-CA1 induced a small but clear accumulation of HIV-1 capsid cores at nuclear pores, as seen by microscopy, whereas IFN-β caused a strong accumulation of HIV-1 cores at the nuclear envelope but not specifically at nuclear pores. These observations are consistent with GS-CA1 inhibiting the nuclear translocation of HIV-1 capsid cores through nuclear pores.
EGSDK-Net: Edge-Guided Stepwise Dual Kernel Update Network for Panoptic Segmentation
Authors: Mu Pengyu , Zhao Hongwei , Ma Ke
Published: February 2025

In recent years, panoptic segmentation has garnered increasing attention from researchers aiming to better understand scenes in images. Although many excellent studies have been proposed, they share some common unresolved issues. Firstly, panoptic segmentation, as a novel task, is still confined within inherent frameworks. Secondly, the prevalent kernel update strategies do not adequately utilize the information from each stage. To address these two issues, redwe propose an edge-guided stepwise dual kernel update network (EGSDK-Net) for panoptic segmentation; the core components are the real-time edge guidance module and the stepwise dual kernel update module. The first component, after extracting and positioning edge features through an extra branch, applies these features to the normally transmitted feature maps within the network to highlight the edges. The input image is initially processed with the Canny edge detector to generate and store the predicted edge map, which acts as the ground truth for supervising the extracted edge feature map. The stepwise dual kernel update module enhances the utilization of information by allowing each stage to update both its own kernel and that of the subsequent stage, thereby improving the judgment capabilities of the kernels. redEGSDK-Net achieves a PQ of 60.6, representing a 2.19% improvement over RT-K-Net.
Seizure Detection in Medical IoT: Hybrid CNN-LSTM-GRU Model with Data Balancing and XAI Integration
Authors: Torkey Hanaa , Hashish Sonia , Souissi Samia , Hemdan Ezz El-Din , Sayed Amged
Published: February 2025

The brain acts as the body’s central command, overseeing diverse functions including thought, memory, speech, movement, and the regulation of various organs. When healthy, the brain functions seamlessly and automatically; however, disruptions can lead to serious conditions such as Alzheimer’s Disease, Brain Cancer, Stroke, and Epilepsy. Epilepsy, a neurological disorder marked by recurrent seizures, results from irregular electrical activity in the brain. These seizures, which can strain both patients and neurologists, are characterized by symptoms like the loss of awareness, unusual behavior, and confusion. This study presents an efficient EEG-based epileptic seizure detection framework utilizing a hybrid Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM), and Gated Recurrent Unit (GRU) models approach to support automated and accurate diagnosis. Handling imbalanced EEG data, which can otherwise bias model outcomes and reduce predictive accuracy, is a key focus. Experimental results indicate that the proposed framework generally outperforms other Deep Learning and Machine Learning techniques with the highest accuracy at 99.13%. Likewise, an Explainable Artificial Intelligence (XAI) called SHAP (SHapley Additive exPlanations) is utilized to analyze the results and to improve the interpretability of the models from medical decision-making. This framework aligns with the objectives of the Medical Internet of Things (MIoT), advancing smart medical applications and services for effective epileptic seizure detection.
Strength Analysis and Design of a Multi-Bridge V-Shaped Rotor for High-Speed Interior Permanent Magnet Synchronous Motors
Authors: Zhou Kun , Wang Dongxiong , Yu Zewen , Yuan Xianju , Zhang Ming , Zheng Yu
Published: February 2025

High-speed operation is a crucial approach for achieving high power density of drive motors for new energy vehicles. However, mechanical strength of the rotor has become the primary bottleneck in the development of high-speed drive motors. Adopting a multi-bridge structure can effectively enhance the mechanical strength of the V-shaped rotors widely used in interior permanent magnet synchronous motors (IPMSMs). Firstly, based on the equivalent centroid principle, the centrifugal forces generated by the rotor’s pole shoes and permanent magnets are calculated. An improved centrifugal force method is proposed to establish an analytical mechanical model of the multi-bridge V-shaped rotor structure. This method comprehensively considers the force conditions, deformation constraints, and material properties of the magnetic bridges. Additionally, stress concentration is taken into account to ensure the accuracy of the model. The effects of various structural parameters on the maximum mechanical stress and deformation are then analyzed. These parameters include the V-angle, pole shoe angle, and the dimensions of three types of magnetic bridges, namely, the central bridge, air-gap bridge, and middle bridge. Finally, recommendations for selecting structural parameters in the mechanical strength design of multi-bridge V-shaped rotors are summarized. The effectiveness of the proposed rotor structure is verified through finite element method and experiments.
Assemblage of Bacteria Communities and Resistome Enrichment by Dairy Flurries Along the Rhizosphere–Bulk Soil Continuum on Dairy Farms
Authors: Rilling Joaquin , Venegas Constanza , Campos Marco , Jorquera Milko A. , Acuña Jacquelinne J.
Published: February 2025

The use of dairy slurries as organic fertilizer amendments is a common practice in agriculture as a cost-saving measure, as well as a residue management strategy. However, concerns related to the increase in antibiotic resistance in the environment under the scope of the One Health strategy are increasing. In this study, we aimed to assess resistome enrichment driven by dairy slurry application in four southern Chile dairy farms. Slurry pits, rhizospheres of Lolium perenne amended with those slurries, and bulk soils were sampled. Thirteen antibiotic-resistance genes (ARGs, tetA, tetG, tetM, tetQ, tetW, tetX, sul1, sul2, blaCTXM, blaOXA-1, blaTEM, ermB, and dfrA1) for five antibiotic classes (tetracyclines, sulfonamides, beta-lactams, macrolides, and trimethoprim–sulfamethoxazole), two related integrases (intl1 and intl2), and total bacteria (16S rRNA) abundance was measured by quantitative PCR (qPCR). Then, the abundance profiles of two enzyme-inactivated ARGs (tetX and blaTEM) were determined. The differences between the bacterial communities inhabiting the different sample types were explored with 16S rRNA metabarcoding. In general, all measured ARGs were detected in slurries. A decreasing trend in ARG copy numbers was observed with increasing soil depth, with the exception of tetX, whose abundance increased in the bulk soil at specific farms. The tetX and blaTEM communities revealed no differences in the relative abundance of variants in any of the samples. Finally, taxonomic and structural differences were found among all sample types. Thus, the enrichment of the sampled farm soil resistomes was driven by the application of the raw slurries as fertilizer.
Environmental Influences on Seed Germination and Seedling Emergence in Four Echinochloa Taxa
Authors: Yuan Guohui , Gao Yuan , Fang Jiapeng , Shen Guohui , Tian Zhihui
Published: February 2025

Echinochloa species are troublesome weeds that cause serious problems in paddy fields. Due to the fact that the genus Echinochloa comprises numerous species and subspecies, research on its seed germination and emergence ecology is still insufficient. In this study, the influence of varying temperatures; light, osmotic, and saline conditions; and depth of seed burial on the germination of Echinochloa seeds and the emergence of seedlings was determined through laboratory and pot tests: E. crus-galli var. crus-galli, E. crus-galli var. mitis, E. crus-galli var. praticola, and E. caudata. Seed germination of the constant temperatures in the four Echinochloa taxa was examined between 15 and 40 °C, and optimum germination occurred over the following temperature ranges: 25–35 °C for E. crus-galli var. crus-galli; 15–25 °C for E. crus-galli var. mitis; 15–40 °C for E. crus-galli var. praticola; and 15–35 °C for E. caudata. Fluctuating temperatures were conducive to seed germination in all four Echinochloa taxa. Except for E. crus-galli var. crus-galli and E. crus-galli var. mitis exposed to very acidic conditions (pH = 4), germination of seedlings from the four taxa of Echinochloa was not evidently affected by pH or light. Seed germination of the four Echinochloa taxa decreased as water stress decreased (<−0.2 MPa); however, it occurred across a wide spectrum of salt concentrations (0–320 mM NaCl). The seeds that were placed 0–0.5 cm below the surface had the highest rate of seedling emergence, which declined gradually as burial depth increased. This result demonstrates that deep tillage is an efficient management method for decreasing the seedling emergence of various weed species. This study’s findings will enhance our comprehension of the conditions necessary for the germination and emergence of Echinochloa seeds, as well as furnish information that may assist in managing its growth.
Air Quality and Energy Use in a Museum
Authors: Loupa Glykeria , Dabanlis Georgios , Kostenidou Evangelia , Rapsomanikis Spyridon
Published: February 2025

Museums play a vital role in preserving cultural heritage and for this reason, they require strict indoor environmental controls. Balancing indoor environmental quality with reduced energy consumption poses significant challenges. Over the course of a year (2023), indoor microclimate conditions, atmospheric pollutant concentrations (O3, TVOC, CO, CO2, particulate matter), and energy use were monitored at the Archaeological Museum of Kavala. Maximum daily fluctuations in relative humidity were 15% in summertime, while air temperature variations reached 2.0 °C, highlighting unstable microclimatic conditions. Particulate matter was the primary threat to the preservation of artworks, followed by indoor O3 and NO2, whose concentrations exceeded recommended limits for cultural conservation. In 2023, the Energy Use Intensity (EUI) was 86.1 kWh m−2, a value that is significantly correlated with the number of visitors and the outdoor air temperature. Every person visiting the museum was assigned an average of 7.7 kWh of energy. During the hottest days and when the museum was crowded, the maximum amount of energy was consumed. Over the past decade (2013–2023), the lowest EUI was recorded during the COVID-19 pandemic at 53 kWh m−2. Energy consumption is linked to indoor environmental quality; thus, both must be continuously monitored.
Biomechanical Assessment of the Collateral Ligament of the Distal Interphalangeal Joint of the Horse Following Alterations to the Palmar Angle—A Cadaveric Study
Authors: Colla Sandro , Johnson James W. , McGilvray Kirk C. , Zanotto Gustavo M. , Seabaugh Kathryn A.
Published: February 2025

Therapeutic shoeing for horses is used to affect the palmar angle (PA) of the distal phalanx. These changes may influence the strain on the distal interphalangeal joint collateral ligaments (DIJCLs). This cadaveric study aimed to assess DIJCL strain under varying loads and PA adjustments. Using 26 cadaver forelimbs, eight optical markers were placed on one DIJCL for strain measurement under five different loads (1000–5000 newtons) at a neutral PA, followed by PA increases of 2°, 4°, and 6° and decreases of −2° and −4°. The results indicate that increases in PA corresponded to significantly higher strain in the distal and mid distal portions, while 2° and 4° decreases in PA significantly reduced the strain in the proximal regions of the DIJCLs. Limitations include potential discrepancies between a cadaver and live biomechanics. This study concludes that increased PA increases distal DIJCL strain, while decreased PA decreases proximal strain. Further research is recommended to evaluate the practical implications of these findings in DIJCL injuries in horses.
Characterization of Lung Microbiome in Subclinical Pneumonic Thai Pigs Using 16S rRNA Gene Sequencing
Authors: Tadee Phacharaporn , Khaodang Pakasinee , Patchanee Prapas , Buddhasiri Songphon , Eiamsam-ang Thanaporn , Kittiwan Nattinee , Tadee Pakpoom
Published: February 2025

Bacterial respiratory disease is one of the major concerns in the modern pig industry. To address the limitations of culture-based methods, 16S rRNA sequencing was employed to characterize the pig lung microbiome to gain a better understanding of microbial physiology and their population genetics. A batch of 510 slaughtered pigs from a farm located in Lampang province, Thailand, was selected. Individual pig weight was recorded. A total of 24 lungs (10 normal and 14 pneumonic lungs) were sampled for gross lesion examination and lung microbial communities were investigated. Poor growth performance and weight uniformity were denoted in this batch. Several pathogenic bacteria were detected in both normal and pneumonic lungs. Microbial diversity was decreased in the pneumonic group. PCoA and NMDS analysis showed a clear separation between the groups. Stenotrophomonas spp. (42.12%) was the dominant genus identified in normal lungs, while Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae (71.97%) was the most abundant in pneumonic lungs, correlating with the commonly observed consolidation lesions. The slaughterhouse serves as a key checkpoint for gathering comprehensive information on pig respiratory health, and lung is representative of the lower respiratory tract for microbiomics. Monitoring of lung lesions should be implemented routinely to gain a better understanding of regional pig respiratory health.
Healing of Comminuted Fractures of Long Bones in Dogs
Authors: Candela Andrade Mario , Petereit Franziska , Slunsky Pavel , de Rus Aznar Ignacio , Brunnberg Leo
Published: February 2025

Fracture healing in dogs is a complex process influenced by factors such as age, weight, fracture type, and underlying conditions. Among fractures, complex diaphyseal comminuted fractures stand out due to their susceptibility to complications like delayed union or nonunion. Despite the recognized complexities, veterinary-specific data on their incidence, complications, and effective treatment strategies remain surprisingly scarce. This retrospective study analyzed 99 comminuted fractures among 542 long bone fractures treated at the Small Animal Clinic of the Freie Universität Berlin (2007–2014). The femur (n = 42) was most affected, followed by the tibia/fibula (n = 29), radius/ulna (n = 24), and humerus (n = 4). Plates (n = 81) and intramedullary pins or external fixators (n = 16) were used for osteosynthesis. Healing occurred without complications in 72%, while 28% experienced issues such as implant failure or delayed union. Open fractures, high-energy trauma, and >3 fragments were associated with higher complication rates (p < 0.05). Fractures treated with plates healed slower (p = 0.016), and implants were removed later compared to other methods (p = 0.049). This study highlights the challenges of managing complex fractures and emphasizes the need for tailored surgical approaches. It provides new insights into their treatment and outcomes, paving the way for future research to establish standardized veterinary protocols.
Vaginal Seeding: Is There Any Positive Effect in Canine C-Sections?
Authors: Beretta Samara , Araújo Renatha Almeida de , Bianchini Melissa Oliveira , Bonavina Jaqueline Tamara , Rocha-Júnior João Domingos , Campos Nayara Camatta , Pizauro Lucas José Luduverio , Rodrigues-Silva Fernanda Andreza , Toniollo Gilson Hélio , Cardozo Marita Vedovelli , Apparício Maricy
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to scrutinize variations in the intestinal microbiota of neonatal dogs born through natural birth versus elective cesarean section, focusing on evaluating the influence of vaginal seeding on the microbiota of cesarean-born neonates. Samples were collected from cesarean-sectioned females before anesthesia and from naturally birthing females during prodrome signs, along with neonates at eight time points from birth to 15 days of age. In the cesarean section group, seeding was performed in half of the neonates (cesarean section seeding group; seeding consisted of gently rubbing the gauze, obtained from the mother’s vagina, onto the mouths, faces, and bodies of the newborns), while the other half underwent microbiological sample collection without seeding (cesarean section group). Another group (normal birth group) consisted of naturally born neonates. Microbiota analysis included counting for enterobacteria, Staphylococcus spp., and Streptococcus spp. The results suggested that vertical transmission played a crucial role, but the method of birth did not emerge as the primary determinant of observed differences. Under study conditions, vaginal seeding failed to effectively modulate the microbiota of neonates born through elective cesarean section. Further investigations into the gut–brain axis are suggested for understanding factors influencing the initial development of the canine intestinal microbiota in neonates born through different delivery routes.
Shape and Size Variations in the Astragalus of Large and Small Bovids
Authors: Ünal Burak , Güzel Barış Can , Çakar Buket , Aslan Kanmaz Yeşim , Yiğit Funda , Gündemir Ozan , Spataru Mihaela-Claudia
Published: February 2025

The astragalus acts as a crucial intermediary in the tarsal joint, facilitating the transfer of body weight to the lower extremities while also ensuring both stability and mobility through its articulation with adjacent bones, enabling efficient movement. This study investigates the morphological diversity of the astragalus in three modern cattle breeds, one goat breed, and three sheep breeds using three-dimensional geometric morphometric methods. A total of 225 specimens were analyzed in this study. Large bovids, such as the Holstein and Simmental cattle breeds, had a more developed lateral edge of the proximal trochlea and a more rounded astragalus. In small bovids, the Akkaraman and Morkaraman sheep breeds displayed a more prominent medial edge and a rounded astragalus form, while the Hair goat breed exhibited a rectangular structure with a well-developed lateral projection. The results of this study demonstrate that the astragalus serves as a reliable morphological marker for differentiating between large and small bovids, as well as between closely related taxa such as sheep and goats. These shape variations, particularly observed in the proximal trochlea, reflect functional adaptations to size, body mass, and locomotor demands, making the astragalus a critical element for taxonomic identification and biomechanical analysis.
Implementation of a National Antimicrobial Stewardship Training Programme for General Practice: A Case Study
Authors: Cooper Donna , Stevens Claire , Jamieson Conor , Lee Ming Xuan , Riley Ruth , Patel Bharat , Meadows Jade , Kaur Parmjit , Okolie Obiageli , Hand Kieran , Lecky Donna M.
Published: February 2025

Background: Approximately 71% of antibiotics in England are prescribed in general practice settings. Whilst there are various impactful training resources available to support clinicians in antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) activities, implementation, reach, and uptake affect how successful they are nationally. This case study explores the feasibility, acceptability, and usefulness of embedding the TARGET (Treat Antibiotics Responsibly, Guidance, Education and Tools) AMS training into a local incentive scheme. Method: Black Country Integrated Care Board (ICB) invited a representative from all associated general practises to a TARGET AMS training event; attendance was linked to a local incentive scheme. Data were collected via a pre- and post-workshop survey capturing TARGET toolkit knowledge, AMS attitudes and behaviours, training feedback, and intention to implement AMS behaviours. Descriptive analyses were conducted. Results: 157 and 101 attendees completed the pre- and post-session surveys, respectively. In total, 89% agreed that attending the session was a good use of their time. The proportions of attendees stating an intention to use the TARGET toolkit and implement a range of AMS strategies following the session were high (TARGET Toolkit: >82%, AMS strategies: >90%). Most attendees planned to implement these actions within 3 months (47%) or within 3–6 months (30%). Conclusion: Results suggest that embedding the training into a local incentive scheme is a viable implementation approach in extending training reach. Although the impact on prescribing rates is not yet available, the high engagement and intention to implement AMS strategies observed should inspire confidence in this approach to training implementation.
Internal Observation Method of Temporary Structures Covered with a Construction Safety Net Using Image Processing and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs)
Authors: Kang Min-Guk , Shin Seung-Hyeon , Jeong Hyeon-Ji , Won Jeong-Hun
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a method for observing the inside of a temporary structure covered with a construction safety net using an image processing technique and 3D modeling. Images of the temporary structures were obtained using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Observing the inside of temporary structures is limited to using UAVs due to construction safety nets that act as obstacles. To solve this problem, the histogram equalization and grayscale stretching techniques were used to visualize the inside of a temporary structure covered by safety nets. After verifying the proposed method with small scale specimens, the proposed method was applied to climbing formwork installed at a construction site. Three-dimensional modeling technique was combined with improved images that were processed using the proposed method. The results indicated that the proposed method could identify internal objects that were not visible owing to safety nets. By comparing the original and improved images obtained through applying the proposed method, four target objects located inside the climbing formwork that were not visible owing to safety nets were sufficiently identified in the improved images. Thus, the proposed method can be effectively applied to identify the internal objects of temporary structures covered with safety nets.
Assessment of Health-Related Behaviors and Physical Activity of Wheelchair Fencers
Authors: Boguszewski Dariusz , Łuczak Katarzyna
Published: February 2025

Background. Sports for people with disabilities were developed to be the final stage and continuation of rehabilitation, and their main purpose was for therapeutic value. The purpose of this study was to assess the physical activity and selected health behaviors of people with disabilities involved in wheelchair fencing. Materials and Methods. The study included 89 people with disabilities. The first group (n = 42) consisted of parafencers participating in the Kiliński’s Sabre Wheelchair Fencing World Cup. The control group was 47 people with disabilities who were non-athletes. The main research tools were the Health Behaviors Inventory (HBI) and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Results. The athletes’ health behaviors, assessed using the HBI, showed significant differences between the two study groups. Wheelchair fencers were more attentive to eating habits, preventive behaviors, and health practices and had more favorable mental attitudes. In the fencers’ overall physical activity over the past seven days, differences were observed between those who trained competitively and non-athletes. The differences were statistically significant. Conclusions. Fencers were characterized by significantly higher levels of health behavior. This may indicate the intellectualization of the training process and the transfer of the desired behavior to everyday life.
Acute Respiratory Distress Identification via Multi-Modality Using Deep Learning
Authors: Nawaz Wajahat , Albert Kevin , Jouvet Philippe , Noumeir Rita
Published: February 2025

Medical instruments are essential in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs) for measuring respiratory parameters to prevent health complications. However, the assessment of acute respiratory distress (ARD) is still conducted through intermittent visual examination. This process is subjective, labor-intensive, and prone to human error, making it unsuitable for continuous monitoring and early detection of deterioration. Previous studies have proposed solutions to address these challenges, but their techniques rely on color information, the performance of which can be influenced by variations in skin tone and lighting conditions. We propose leveraging multi-modality data to address these limitations. Our method integrates color and depth data using deep convolutional neural networks with a late feature fusion scheme. We train and evaluate our model on a dataset of 153 patients with respiratory illnesses, 86 of whom have ARD of varying severity levels. Experimental results demonstrate that multi-modality data combined with simple late fusion techniques are more effective with limited data, offering higher confidence scores compared to using color information alone. Our approach achieves an accuracy of 85.2%, a precision of 86.7%, a recall of 85.2%, and an F1 score of 85.8%. These findings suggest that multi-modality data provide a promising solution for improving ARD detection accuracy and confidence in clinical settings.
Water Consumption, Quantity and Quality of Wastewater and Sewage Sludge from Polish Dairies
Authors: Rodziewicz Joanna , Mielcarek Artur , Kłobukowska Karolina , Jóźwiakowski Krzysztof , Siwiec Tadeusz , Bugajski Piotr , Janczukowicz Wojciech
Published: February 2025

The peculiarity of the wastewater produced in Polish dairies stems from the frequency and specific technology of cottage cheese production. The aim of this study was to determine the water consumption and the quantity and quality of wastewater and sewage sludge discharged from Polish dairies based on the size of the plant and the production profile of the plant to characterize the wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Data were collected from eighteen dairies. Most of them have their own WWTP. Water consumption ranged from 1.5 litres (L) of water per litre of milk processed to 3.71 L/L. The specific volume of wastewater ranged from 1.18 to 5.78 L per L of milk processed. The raw wastewater concentrations were comparable to those of dairy wastewater in other European countries. Despite the disposal of domestic wastewater in WWTPs, the results of the sanitary examinations of the sludge showed it was suitable for agricultural purposes. Its heavy metal also made it applicable on agricultural land. The ratio of the sludge to raw milk processing was between 0.137 and 7.927 kg of sludge per 100 L of milk processed. The amount of sludge produced per pollutant (BOD) load removed ranged from 0.404 to 18.895 kg/kg BODremoved.
Aroma Compound Release from Starches of Different Origins: A Physicochemical Study
Authors: Emmanouil Maria-Magdalini , Skartsila Alexandra , Katsou Pelagia , Farmakis Lampros , Koliadima Athanasia , Kapolos John
Published: February 2025

Sensory properties, particularly aroma, play a crucial role in consumers’ acceptance and perceived quality of food. The release and the perception of aroma compounds is affected by their interaction with nonvolatile ingredients of foods, such as proteins, lipids, and polysaccharides. These interactions, whether reversible or irreversible, significantly influence aroma retention and release. Starch, a common food constituent, has been found to interact with aroma compounds, impacting flavor dynamics through processes like complexation and encapsulation. In this study, reversed-flow gas chromatography (RF-GC) is employed for the estimation of the release behavior of polar (diacetyl) and non-polar (dl-limonene) aroma compounds from starches of various origins (corn, wheat, rice, and potato). The results show that aroma compound release is influenced by the matrix composition, environmental conditions, and physicochemical properties of both starch and aroma compounds. The temperature-dependent mass transfer coefficients and activation energies reveal the strong influence of polar and non-polar characteristics on aroma compound behavior. Additionally, significant variations in retention and release are observed based on the starch type and the type of bonds involved in aroma compound interactions, underscoring the critical role of thermodynamic and kinetic parameters in flavor dynamics.
A Comprehensive Review of Indoor Localization Techniques and Applications in Various Sectors
Authors: Aziz Toufiq , Koo Insoo
Published: February 2025

The field of indoor localization is fast developing and has important ramifications for a number of areas, such as smart infrastructure development, healthcare settings, industrial automation, and military operations. Advances in a range of technologies, each suited to certain use cases and objectives, have been fueled by the capacity to precisely locate objects or people inside places. Prominent indoor localization technologies like Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, ultra-wideband (UWB), ZigBee, and RFID-based systems are examined in this review, along with hybrid solutions that combine several technologies to get around their individual drawbacks and enhance system performance. The field still faces several obstacles in spite of these developments. Widespread acceptance is hampered by persistent problems such as signal interference, high energy consumption, and restricted scalability. The deployment of these systems is further complicated by elements like cost-effectiveness, privacy issues, and compatibility in a variety of situations. This study also examines potential avenues for future research to improve the precision, dependability, and versatility of indoor localization technology in order to overcome these obstacles. Designing systems with increased resilience to environmental changes, utilizing edge computing for real-time processing, and integrating artificial intelligence for predictive modeling are all promising areas of emphasis. This study attempts to help academics and practitioners navigate the changing terrain of indoor localization by offering a comprehensive picture of the field’s present status and future directions.
A Deep Reinforcement Learning-Based Speed Optimization System to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Emissions for Smart Cities
Authors: Yiğit Yıldıray , Karabatak Murat
Published: February 2025

Increasing traffic density in cities exacerbates air pollution, threatens human health and worsens the global climate crisis. Urgent solutions for sustainable and eco-friendly urban transportation are needed. Innovative technologies like artificial intelligence, particularly Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL), play a crucial role in reducing fuel consumption and emissions. This study presents an effective approach using DRL to minimize waiting times at traffic lights, thus reducing fuel consumption and emissions. DRL can evaluate complex traffic scenarios and learn optimal solutions. Unlike other studies focusing solely on optimizing traffic light durations, this research aims to choose the optimal vehicle acceleration based on traffic conditions. This method provides safer, more comfortable travel while lowering emissions and fuel consumption. Simulations with various scenarios prove the Deep Q-Network (DQN) algorithm’s success in adjusting speed according to traffic lights. Although the findings confirmed that the DRL algorithms used were effective in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, the DQN algorithm outperformed other DRL algorithms in reducing fuel consumption and emissions in complex city traffic scenarios, and in reducing waiting times at traffic lights. It provides better contributions to creating a sustainable environment by reducing fuel consumption and emissions.
Geochemistry of Pyrite from the Jiaojia Gold Deposit, Jiaodong Peninsula, North China Craton: Implications for Source of Ore-Forming Fluids and Gold Precipitation
Authors: Fang Yayi , Liang Yayun , Xia Rui , Shu Lei , He Bi , Xue Wenhao , Zhang Chenxi , Wang Haiyi , Xue Senmiao
Published: February 2025

The Jiaojia gold deposit in the Jiaodong Peninsula, located in the northwestern part of the Jiaodong gold province in eastern China, has a gold reserve of over 300 t. Gold mineralization in Jiaojia deposit occurred in three stages: (1) The Pyrite–Quartz–Sericite Stage (Stage I) developed primary minerals that included quartz, sericite, and a small amount of anhedral pyrite, appearing as disseminations within milky quartz and foliated sericite. (2) The Quartz–Pyrite Stage (Stage II) developed quartz that appears smoky gray and pyrite that appears with a euhedral cubic morphology, with crystal faces oriented in a longitudinal pattern. Native gold occurs as fracture filling in pyrite. (3) The Quartz–Polymetallic Sulfides Stage (Stage III) developed polymetallic sulfides, including pyrite, chalcopyrite, galena, sphalerite, and magnetite. Native gold filled the pyrite fractures and was enclosed within the pyrite. (4) The Quartz–Carbonate Stage (Stage IV) developed the main minerals of quartz and carbonate, with scattered occurrences of pyrite. In situ geochemical analysis of pyrite, the main gold-carrying mineral from mineralization Stages I to III in the Jiaojia gold deposit, was conducted, including major element, trace element, and sulfur isotope analyses. The δ34S values of Jiaojia pyrite range from 4.5 to 8.0‰. Pyrite in Stage I (Py I) has δ34S values ranging from 4.5 to 7.4‰, with an average of 6.4‰. Pyrite in the Stage II (Py II) has δ34S values ranging from 5.9 to 8.0‰, with an average of 6.8‰. Pyrite in Stage III (Py III) has δ34S values ranging from 6.4 to 7.9‰, with an average of 7.4‰. Combined with the C-D-O-He isotopes, the ore-forming fluids of the Jiaojia gold deposit likely originated from subducted oceanic plate-related metasomatized mantle. The Co/Ni ratios of Jiaojia pyrite range from 0.50 to 1.47 in Stage I, 0.27 to 1.69 in Stage II, and 0.58 to 295 in Stage III. The Cu/Au ratios in the Jiaojia pyrite in all mineralization stages were >1. These geochemical features imply that the ore-forming fluids of the Jiaojia gold deposit were in a medium- to low-temperature reducing environment, with temperatures gradually decreasing from ore Stages I to III. The increase in Co and As in the pyrite of Stage III implies that gold precipitation resulted from fluid immiscibility caused by a decrease in pressure and temperature and an increase in the oxygen fugacity of the ore-forming fluid.
Exposure to Black Carbon (BC) and the Secondary Aerosol (p-SO42− and p-NO3−) Components of Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5), and Cardiopulmonary Morbidity in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Nayebare Shedrack R. , Aburizaiza Omar S. , Siddique Azhar , Carpenter David O. , Mirza Hussain M. , Zeb Jahan , Aburiziza Abdullah J. , Khwaja Haider A.
Published: February 2025

This study assessed the morbidity risk for respiratory (RDs) and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) from the exposure to black carbon (BC), p-SO42−, and p-NO3− measured in PM2.5 collected from Jeddah. The 24 h PM2.5 sampling was done at three sites for 6 weeks quarterly from 8 April 2013 to 18 February 2014, with concurrent hospital data collection. Though the data were collected more than a decade ago, the results are still applicable to the current middle east region and beyond. The relative risk (RR) for CVDs and RDs was computed in a single pollutant GLM time-series model using moving averages (MAs) and presented with 95% confidence intervals (CI). Overall, the morbidity risk was highest in outpatients. The risk of RDs was highest in younger age groups with age group 0–14 years being the most vulnerable, while the risk of CVDs was highest in age groups above 30 years. BC: The risk of RDs was highest in outpatient females of 0–14 years at all MAs; 1.483 (1.035, 2.123) to 2.501 (1.522, 4.112), and males of 31–45 years; 1.758 (1.134, 2.725) to 1.895 (1.142, 3.145) at MAs 5–7. The risk of CVDs was highest in age group 61–75 years but with a marginal statistical significance. p-SO42−: The risk of RDs was highest in males of 31–45 years; 1.173 (1.066, 1.291) to 1.256 (1.126, 1.400) at MAs_3–7. The risk of CVDs was also highest in age group 31–45 years; 1.078 (1.004, 1.157) to 1.090 (1.010, 1.177), with higher risk estimates in males; 1.084 (0.986, 1.191) to 1.120 (1.013, 1.239) at MAs 4–7. p-NO3−: No significant risk was observed for RD morbidity. The overall risk of CVDs was significant in outpatients with an age group of 61–75 years at all MAs; 1.204 (1.014, 1.429) to 1.316 (1.096, 1.579); females, 1.221 (0.987, 1.511) to 1.428 (1.123, 1.816); and males, 1.205 (1.022, 1.421) to 1.258 (1.052, 1.505). This is the first study to assess the cardiopulmonary risk from BC, p-SO42−, and p-NO3− exposure in Jeddah. A high morbidity risk was observed in all age groups, accentuating the effects of elevated air pollution in Saudi Arabia and beyond. Females of 0–14 years were more at risk for RDs morbidity while the CVDs morbidity risk was relatively higher in males in age groups above 30 years.