bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between vitamin D levels and preserved ratio impaired spirometry: an investigation of mediating roles of systemic inflammation and metabolic indicators
Authors: Lin Tong , Huang Shanshan , Zhou Fen , Shen Xingkai , Mao Haiyan
Published: January 2025

Background

Preserved ratio impaired spirometry (PRISm) represents an abnormal lung function state distinct from traditional chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, characterized by unique clinical and epidemiological features. PRISm has been associated with various health issues, including an increased risk of metabolic disorders and cardiovascular diseases. Vitamin D, known for its anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties, may play a role in reducing the risk of PRISm. This study aims to investigate the relationship between vitamin D levels and PRISm, including the mediating effects of systemic inflammation markers and metabolic indicators in a population of U.S. adults.

Methods

This cross-sectional study analyzed data from 17,333 participants from the U.S. National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, including 1,577 individuals with PRISm and 15,756 without. Baseline characteristics were assessed, and multivariate logistic regression models were employed to examine the relationship between vitamin D and PRISm. Mediation analysis was conducted to explore potential mediating roles of systemic immune-inflammation index (SII), triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index, and bilirubin. Nonlinear relationships were assessed using restricted cubic spline (RCS) models.

Results

The PRISm group had lower median vitamin D levels and distinct inflammatory and metabolic profiles compared to the non-PRISm group. Multivariate analysis confirmed an inverse association between vitamin D levels and PRISm (adjusted OR: 0.989, 95% CI: 0.984–0.994, p < 0.001). RCS analysis showed a nonlinear protective effect of vitamin D, with risk stabilizing at levels above 50 nmol/mL. Mediation analysis highlighted bilirubin as a positive mediator (ACME = −4.11 × 10−5, p < 0.001), while TyG demonstrated a suppressive mediation effect (ACME = 2.68 × 10−5, p < 0.001). SII did not show significant mediation.

Conclusion

Elevated vitamin D levels are linked to a lower risk of PRISm, with bilirubin potentially acting as a mediator in this protective relationship. This underscores the clinical significance of maintaining sufficient vitamin D levels to promote lung health and mitigate the prevalence of PRISm among U.S. adults. Further research is warranted to investigate personalized vitamin D supplementation strategies as a potential preventive approach.
Tumor-shrinking effects of enfortumab vedotin between primary urothelial carcinoma and metastatic organs
Authors: Ikarashi Daiki , Kawamura Tatsuya , Ogasawara Keita , Arakawa Yumeka , Machida Arisa , Ito Ayato , Shiomi Ei , Maekawa Shigekatsu , Kato Renpei , Kanehira Mitsugu , Sugimura Jun , Obara Wataru
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to determine and compare the tumor shrinkage rate and its durability by enfortumab vedotin treatment between primary urothelial carcinoma and metastatic organs.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated the tumor shrinkage rate in 39 Japanese patients treated with enfortumab vedotin for advanced urothelial carcinoma. We also evaluated the periods of tumor shrinkage maintenance (the period when best response was maintained) and regrowth (the period from best response to tumor growth confirmation) between primary and metastatic organs.

Results

Measurable metastatic organs included the lung in 17, lymph node in 22, liver in 6, and bone in 5 cases. Primary lesion was detected in 20 cases. The mean tumor shrinkage rates for lung, lymph node, liver, and bone metastases and primary sites were 21% (−212 to 100), 13% (−130 to 86), −8.5% (−158 to 85), −64% (−250 to 21), and 22% (−38 to 79), respectively. The tumor shrinkage was maintained for 5.9 (0.7–14) months in lung metastases, 8.3 (2.6–14.5) months in lymph node metastases, 3.6 months in liver metastases, 0.7 months in bone metastases, and 1.8 (0.7–5.4) months in primary sites, and the period of regrowth was 7.3 (2.2–19.4), 4.8 (2.0–8.9), 2.8, 6.5, and 2.5 (1.1–5.9) months, respectively.

Conclusions

Enfortumab vedotin showed significant tumor shrinkage in the primary tumor, lung metastases, and lymph node metastases, whereas the durability of tumor shrinkage was limited in the primary tumor.
Case report: PD-L1-targeted high-affinity natural killer cells and IL-15 superagonist N-803-based therapy extend overall survival of advanced metastatic pancreatic cancer patients
Authors: Seery Tara , Sender Lennie , Jafari Omid , Jones Frank , Spilman Patricia , Reddy Sandeep B. , Soon-Shiong Patrick
Published: January 2025

Background

Metastatic pancreatic cancer (mPC) is an aggressive form of cancer with a poor prognosis and few therapeutic options after failure of the second-line treatment. Induction of immunogenic cell death (ICD) by use of relatively low-dose chemo- or radiation therapy, enhancement of immune responses by the IL-15 superagonist N-803 (Anktiva®), and targeting of programmed death receptor ligand 1 (PD-L1)-expressing cells may offer a therapeutic approach to refractory mPC with the potential to increase overall survival (OS).

Methods

From late 2019 to 2021, single-patient Investigational New Drug (spIND) protocols for five mPC patients were designed and approved that generally comprised combined Abraxane (nab-paclitaxel) and gemcitabine therapy with experimental therapeutics N-803, PD-L1-targeted high-affinity natural killer (PD-L1 t-haNK) cells, and aldoxorubicin, a serum albumin-binding doxorubicin prodrug. Some patients also received stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT), cyclophosphamide, pembrolizumab, nivolumab, and/or experimental ETBX-051 (brachyury) and/or ETBX-061 (MUC1) vaccines. Duration of spIND treatment and responses, for some patients including imaging and carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (CA19-9) levels, and OS from initial diagnosis and the start of spIND therapy were assessed.

Findings

The line/duration of spIND therapy was, for patients 1 through 5, respectively, second line/6.4 months, sixth line/3.5 months, third line/25.4 months, third line/7.4 months, and fourth line/23.2 months. OS from the commencement of spIND therapy was 13, 4.8, 26.9, 9, and 23.2 months, and OS from diagnosis was 22, 21, 42, 13, and 33 months for patients 1 through 5, respectively.

Conclusions

The OS from the initiation of spIND for all patients exceeded the reported OS for the greater-than-second-line mPC patients and, for four of five patients, second-line therapy. The OS of 13, 26.9, and 23.2 months for three patients is particularly notable. The findings here support the ongoing clinical investigations of N-803 and PD-L1 t-haNK cells in combination therapy.
Identification of a pathogenic founder variant in the WFS1 gene that causes Wolfram syndrome in the Druze population
Authors: Halabi Inbal , Tenenbaum-Rakover Yardena , Sagi-Dain Lena , Koren Ilana
Published: January 2025

Context

Wolfram syndrome (WS) is an autosomal recessive neurodegenerative disorder caused by pathogenic variants in the WFS1 gene. It is characterized by central diabetes insipidus, juvenile-onset diabetes mellitus (DM), optic atrophy (OA), and deafness. The natural history of WS is variable, even within the same family and with the same variant.

Objective

To report the phenotypes of five patients of Druze origin, all carrying the same autosomal recessive pathogenic variant in the WFS1 gene.

Patients & methods

Five patients belonging to three core families were enrolled. Clinical, biochemical, and genetic data were retrieved retrospectively from their medical files.

Results

All five patients carried the same previously reported homozygous WFS1 pathogenic variant: c.2649del, p.Phe884fs. In all patients, the first presentation was DM at a mean age of 5.2 years (range 4–7), diagnosed initially as type 1 DM with negative anti-pancreatic autoantibodies, and all were treated with insulin by either pump or multiple injections. All five patients had OA that appeared at a mean age of 12.3 years (range 4–30). Three had hearing loss and neurological involvement, and none had diabetes insipidus. One patient was treated with a glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist with a good response.

Conclusions

This is the first report of a founder pathogenic variant in the WFS1 gene in the Druze population in Israel. Our findings imply that molecular analysis is warranted in children presenting with DM and negative pancreatic antibodies. The identified variant should be considered for genetic testing in individuals of Druze ancestry diagnosed with young-onset non-autoimmune diabetes. Early diagnosis of WS is important for therapeutic approaches, especially since novel medications are becoming available.
Challenging the curve: can ChatGPT-generated MCQs reduce grade inflation in pharmacy education
Authors: Almaghaslah Dalia
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Grade inflation in higher education poses challenges to maintaining academic standards, particularly in pharmacy education, where assessing student competency is crucial. This study investigates the impact of AI-generated multiple-choice questions (MCQs) on exam difficulty and reliability in a pharmacy management course at a Saudi university.

Methods

A quasi-experimental design compared the 2024 midterm exam, featuring ChatGPT-generated MCQs, with the 2023 exam that utilized human-generated questions. Both exams covered identical topics. Exam reliability was assessed using the Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20), while difficulty and discrimination indices were analyzed. Statistical tests, including t-tests and chi-square tests, were conducted to compare performance metrics.

Results

The 2024 exam demonstrated higher reliability (KR-20 = 0.83) compared to the 2023 exam (KR-20 = 0.78). The 2024 exam included a greater proportion of moderate questions (30%) and one difficult question (3.3%), whereas the 2023 exam had 93.3% easy questions. The mean student score was significantly lower in 2024 (17.75 vs. 21.53, p < 0.001), and the discrimination index improved (0.35 vs. 0.25, p = 0.007), indicating enhanced differentiation between students.

Discussion

The findings suggest that AI-generated MCQs contribute to improved exam rigor and a potential reduction in grade inflation. However, careful review of AI-generated content remains essential to ensure alignment with course objectives and accuracy.

Conclusion

AI tools like ChatGPT offer promising opportunities to enhance assessment integrity and support fairer evaluations in pharmacy education.
Effect of Carboxymethyl chitosan-sodium alginate hydrogel loaded with Astragalus membranaceus-Panax notoginseng on wound healing in rats
Authors: Li Jing , Li Linai , Yu Yue , Qin Ruixin , Yu Chaoyan , Chen Chen , Dong Youming , Tan Yadong , Liu Yunen , Liu Xuanli
Published: January 2025

Skin wound healing is a complex physiological process that involves many different cell types and signaling molecules. In traditional Chinese medicine, A. membranaceus and Panax notoginseng are commonly used together for the treatment of wound injury for their significant efficacy. The application of new materials may make A. membranaceus-P. notoginseng (AP) play a better curative effect. In this study, we fabricated a Carboxymethyl chitosan-Sodium alginate hydrogel loaded with the extract of Astragalus membranaceus-P. notoginseng (APCS), which showed favorable stability, biocompatibility, and the ability to rapidly release drugs. Cell culture experiments demonstrated that the APCS hydrogel dramatically increased fibroblast proliferation, migration, and differentiation into myofibroblast. In vivo experiments of wound healing on SD rats showed that APCS hydrogels significantly accelerated skin wound healing, reduced inflammatory response, enhanced the formation of blood vessels, granulation tissues, and collagen fibers, and promoted re-epithelialization at the wound site. Increased expression of catalase, VEGF, and PGP9.5 of wound tissue indicated that APCS hydrogels inhibited oxidative stress and promoted vascular and neuronal regeneration. In summary, the APCS hydrogel displayed great potential as a dressing for achieving satisfactory healing of full-thickness wounds.
The CYP4/20-HETE/GPR75 axis in the progression of metabolic dysfunction-associated steatosis liver disease (MASLD) to chronic liver disease
Authors: Hardwick James P. , Song Byoung-Joon , Rote Paul , Leahy Charles , Lee Yoon Kwang , Wolf Alexandra Rudi , Diegisser Danielle , Garcia Victor
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Metabolic-dysfunction-associated steatosis liver disease (MASLD) is a progressive liver disease from simple steatosis, steatohepatitis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. Chronic liver diseases (CLDs) can lead to portal hypertension, which is a major cause of complications of cirrhosis. CLDs cause structural alterations across the liver through increased contents of extracellular matrix (ECM), driving dysfunction of liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) alongside hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) and activated resident or infiltrating immune cells. Bioactive arachidonic metabolites have diverse roles in the progression of MASLD. Both secreted levels of 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE) and epoxyeicosatrienoic acid (EET) are elevated in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

CLD samples were evaluated for changes in free fatty acids (FFA), cholesterol, bilirubin, bile acid, reactive oxygen species (ROD), lipid peroxidation, myeloperoxidase activity and hydroxyproline levels to evaluate the degrees of liver damage and fibrosis. To address the role of the CYP4/20-HETE/GPR75 axis, we measured the amount and the synthesis of 20-HETE in patients with CLD, specifically during the progression of MASLD. Additionally, we evaluated gene expression and protein levels of GPR75, a high-affinity receptor for 20-HETE across CLD patient samples.

Results

We observed an increase in 20-HETE levels and synthesis during the progression of MASLD. Increased synthesis of 20-HETE correlated with the expression of CYP4A11 genes but not CYP4F2. These results were confirmed by increased P4504A11 protein levels and decreased P4504F2 protein levels during the development and progression of MASLD. The gene expression and protein levels of GPR75, the major receptor for 20-HETE, increased in the progression of MASLD. Interestingly, the CYP4A11 and GPR75 mRNA levels increased in steatohepatitis but dramatically dropped in cirrhosis and then increased in patients with HCC. Also, protein levels of P4504A11 and GPR75 mirrored their mRNA levels.

Discussion

These results indicate that the CYP4A11 and subsequent GPR75 genes are coordinately regulated in the progression of MASLD and may have multiple roles, including 20-HETE activation of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α (PPARα) in steatosis and GPR75 in CLD through either increased cell proliferation or vasoconstriction in portal hypertension during cirrhosis. The abrupt reduction in CYP4A11 and GPR75 in patients with cirrhosis may also be due to increased 20-HETE, serving as a feedback mechanism via GPR75, leading to reduced CYP4A11 and GPR75 gene expression. This work illustrates key correlations associated with the CYP4/20-HETE/GPR75 axis and the progression of liver disease in humans.
The impact of linguistic vs. cultural imperialism on language learning
Authors: Razmjoo Moghadam Somayeh , Barani Ghasem
Published: January 2025

The current study systematically reviewed selected literature on background, current conceptualization, and direction of the issues of linguistic and cultural imperialism in publications of applied linguistics and language teaching to determine themes in the field. To do this, based on the inclusion/exclusion criteria, provided in the PRISMA Chart, 30 most updated and recent articles (mainly since 2020) were selected from the 5 main publications in the field through the advanced search engines. Then, two raters used coding books to screen and code necessary quantitative and qualitative data based on which, a total of 989 general coding schemes and categories were elicited from the coding of the main themes, trends, and findings of linguistic and cultural imperialism. Overall, the main themes of the study were provided in the form of the concepts and perspectives of linguistic and cultural imperialism, informed by the historical directions and the influence of the colonial era. Moreover, the role of power relations and prevailing linguistic dominance in supporting dominant languages and the influence of linguistic and cultural imperialism on L1 acquisition were presented and discussed. Since language imperialism can impact L1 language acquisition by marginalizing local languages and threatening them, each community needs to follow its practical language policy and plans to revitalize and support its languages and cultures. It was suggested that the intersection of linguistic and cultural imperialism impacts social and language identity which can lead to neo-imperialism, colonization, and language hierarchization. The study puts forward some recommendations and suggests future directions to reinforce language rights through different parties with the integration of a human rights perspective in language preservation efforts as the main actions that can be done to improve language awareness of the people. Policy-makers and language decision-makers can follow these guidelines to preserve the legal aspects of the language and cultural identity and utilize foreign languages in more rational and non-threatening ways.
Exploring the role of place attachment in shaping sustainable behaviors toward marine cultural heritage: a case study of Dongmen village in Fujian Province, China
Authors: Cai Wenchao , Shu Zhangwen , Liu Yisi
Published: January 2025

Local residents’ sustainable behaviors associated with cultural heritage are of paramount importance, however the complexities involved are yet to be disentangled. In this study, the concept of the sustainability of residents’ cultural heritage behaviors based on the theory of place attachment is investigated, with a particular focus on religion-related components, using the case of Dongmen village in Fujian Province, China. An attempt is made to answer how residents’ place attachment affects the sustainability behavior of cultural heritage construction and homebuilding. Based on the theory of place attachment, the sustainability of cultural heritage behavior from the perspective of local residents is employed. It is evident that the residents of Dongmen village make use of local knowledge and indigenous resources, and they proactively use associations of the elderly, faith groups, family networks, and overseas relationships. The results of this research show that the sustainable behaviors of Dongmen village residents toward cultural heritage construction are influenced by their feelings of place attachment, which subsequently influence homeland construction actions that, in turn, shape person–place relationships.
Epidemiological characterization of congenital heart disease at different altitudes in Ecuador: a four-year retrospective study in a pediatric referral hospital
Authors: Izquierdo-Condoy Juan S. , Arias-Rodríguez Fabian D. , Díaz-Chamba Walter I. , Mena-Noroña Diego A. , Toaquiza Lizbeth Cueva , Espín-Sambache Beanjuly , Valdivieso-Andrade Emilia J. , Cangas-Isacaz Amanda , García-Cañarte Susana , Rubio-Niera Mario , Ortiz-Prado Esteban
Published: January 2025

Background

Congenital heart disease (CHD) is one of the main causes of hospital admissions and infant mortality, especially in developing regions.

Objectives

This study aims to describe the epidemiological and clinical features of CHD in pediatric patients, from one of the largest tertiary-level national referral pediatric hospitals in Ecuador.

Materials and methods

An epidemiological, retrospective cohort study was conducted among patients with CHD who were hospitalized at “Hospital Baca Ortiz” between January 2019 to December 2022 in Quito, Ecuador.

Results

A total of 1,000 pediatric patient medical records were reviewed from 2019 to 2022. Among these patients, 56.0% were female, and 65.2% resided at high altitudes (2,500–3,500 m). Most cases (71.4%) were acyanotic CHD, with patent ductus arteriosus being the most prevalent (48.7%). Among cyanotic CHD, Tetralogy of Fallot was predominant (28.1%). Mortality was observed in 5.3% of patients, with a higher rate among acyanotic CHD (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Most cases of CHD were of the acyanotic type, predominantly affecting female patients. Although most cases occurred in children living above 2,500 meters, no clear influence of altitude on specific types of CHD was found. While mortality related to CHD was low, the burden of disability from these conditions was significant among patients with acyanotic CHD.
Social activities and different intensities of physical activity among older adults in China: a population-based cohort study
Authors: Yang Song , Zhang Qi , Zhao Anhui , Lyu Dongye
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Population aging is an inevitable consequence of demographic transition and an important issue for human society in the 21st century. Physical activity is widely recognized as a critical factor for improving health, yet the specific impact of different intensities of physical activity on the health of older adults remains underexplored.

Methods

This study addresses this gap by analyzing data from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Survey (CHARLS), a nationally representative survey of a cohort of Chinese people (aged ≥45 years) from 150 counties or districts and 450 villages or urban communities across 28 provinces, who were selected by use of multistage stratified probability-proportionate-to-size sampling. The study employed a regression model aiming to analyse the effect of different intensities of physical activity on the health level of the elder adults.

Results

The results demonstrate that physical activity at all intensity levels—high, moderate, and low—significantly improves the health of older adults, with correlation coefficients of −0.245 (p < 0.01), −0.080 (p < 0.05), and −0.077 (p < 0.10), respectively. Among these, high-intensity physical activity is the most effective in enhancing health outcomes. The result further identifies social activities as a mediating factor in this relationship. Moreover, high-intensity exercise proves to be more beneficial for older adults residing in rural areas compared to their urban counterparts.

Discussion

This study demonstrates that engagement in physical activity at all intensity levels—high, moderate, and low—substantially enhances the health of older adults, with high-intensity physical activity demonstrating the most significant impact on health outcomes. Furthermore, the research identifies social activities as a mediating factor in this relationship, highlighting the importance of social engagement in conjunction with physical activity. This suggests that interventions promoting both physical activity and social interaction can be particularly effective in improving the health and wellbeing of the ageing population.
Radiological safety assessment of sugar consumption in South Africa—a study of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K levels
Authors: John Samuel Odumu Ogana , Olukotun Stephen Friday , Radebe Moses Mpofana , Mathuthu Manny
Published: January 2025

Human exposure to natural radionuclides in the environment primarily occurs through ingestion of foodstuffs, highlighting the importance of continuous monitoring of radionuclide levels in foodstuffs by ensuring consumer safety and compliance with regulatory standards. Using gamma spectrometry, this study investigates activity concentration levels of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K, and associated radiological health risks, in 14 commonly available sugar brands in South Africa. The activity concentration levels of these natural radionuclides ranged from 2.01 ± 0.13 to 7.93 ± 0.34 Bq/kg for 226Ra, 2.90 ± 0.10 to 7.09 ± 0.32 Bq/kg for 228Ra, and 209.40 ± 4.79 to 453.20 ± 10.49 Bq/kg for 40K. The respective mean values were 3.83 ± 0.21, 2.90 ± 0.21, and 320.26 ± 7.41 Bq/kg, with brown sugar having lower values than with white sugar. Annual effective ingestion dose from intake of 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K, for infants (1–2 years), children (7–12 years), and adults (>17 years) ranged from 0.28 to 0.69, 0.32 to 0.82, and 0.12 to 0.30 mSv/year, respectively, and the respective mean values are 0.40 ± 0.11, 0.45 ± 0.14, and 0.17 ± 0.05 mSv/year. 228Ra contributed the largest proportion to ingestion dose (46–67%), indicating potential radiation risk to bones. Lifetime cancer risk ranged from 1.25 × 10−8 to 4.95 × 10−8 for 226Ra, 1.95 × 10−8 to 4.77 × 10−8 for 228Ra, and 5.53 × 10−7 to 1.19 × 10−6 for 40K, with a total mean of 8.96 × 10−7 ± 2.31 × 10−7. Total chronic daily intake due to 226Ra, 228Ra, and 40K ranged from 0.26 to 0.56 with a mean of 0.39 ± 0.10 (mg/kg-day). The activity concentration levels of the natural radionuclides are within the reference value while annual effective ingestion dose and lifetime cancer risks were below international permissible limits. This indicates that sugar in South Africa is radiologically safe and does not pose significant radiological health risks. In this study, the measured activity levels are comparable to those reported in other similar studies. This baseline study highlights the importance of continuous monitoring of radionuclide levels in foodstuffs, ensuring consumer safety, compliance with regulatory standards, and contributing to ongoing discussions on radiological health risks associated with dietary habits. Public health initiatives could consider offering guidelines for safe levels of consumables such as sugar, especially among vulnerable populations such as children.
Semantic composition of robotic solver algorithms on graph structures
Authors: Schneider Sven , Hochgeschwender Nico , Bruyninckx Herman
Published: January 2025

This article introduces a model-based design, implementation, deployment, and execution methodology, with tools supporting the systematic composition of algorithms from generic and domain-specific computational building blocks that prevent code duplication and enable robots to adapt their software themselves. The envisaged algorithms are numerical solvers based on graph structures. In this article, we focus on kinematics and dynamics algorithms, but examples such as message passing on probabilistic networks and factor graphs or cascade control diagrams fall under the same pattern. The tools rely on mature standards from the Semantic Web. They first synthesize algorithms symbolically, from which they then generate efficient code. The use case is an overactuated mobile robot with two redundant arms.
Combating land degradation for sustainable smallholder agriculture and food sovereignty in Ghana’s Volta Region
Authors: Tumawu Armstrong Francis , Kafu George Yao , Kangah Anthony , Tumawu Mary Magdalene M.
Published: January 2025

The severe and accelerating loss of land quality and productivity is widely acknowledged at all geographic scales, from the global scale down to the local level, across the world. Global food yield has decreased by 13% as a result of the 40% moderate degradation and 9% severe degradation of agricultural land. This study examines the dynamics of land degradation and its impacts on smallholder agriculture and food sovereignty in Ghana’s Volta Region, focusing on the Ho Municipality. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the research combines remote sensing analysis, quantitative surveys of 200 smallholder farmers, and qualitative interviews with experts and farmers. Findings reveal a concerning trend of increasing land degradation, with areas experiencing degradation rising from 2% in 2013 to 5% in 2023. The study demonstrates significant impacts on crop yields and farm income, with 87% of surveyed farmers reporting negative effects on their crop production due to land degradation. Smallholder farmers have adopted various coping strategies, with compost application (62.5%) and chemical fertilizer use (60%) being the most prevalent practices. The research highlights a discrepancy between scientific measurements and farmers’ perceptions of land degradation, emphasizing the importance of integrating local knowledge with technical assessments. The study contributes to the existing literature by providing a detailed, localized analysis of land degradation dynamics and their implications for smallholder agriculture and food sovereignty in the region. It offers valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners, underscoring the urgent need for targeted interventions to address land degradation while supporting sustainable agriculture and food security in Ghana and similar contexts.
Associations of Pretransplant Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function Score With Kidney Transplant Outcomes
Authors: Yamauchi Junji , Cizik Amy M. , Fornadi Katalin , Thomas Dominik , Raghavan Divya , Jweehan Duha , Oygen Suayp , Marineci Silviana , Buff Michelle , Selim Motaz , Zimmerman Michael , Mucsi Istvan , Molnar Miklos Z.
Published: January 2025

Simple and validated physical function measures are needed for kidney transplant candidates because pretransplant low physical function is a common and potentially modifiable risk factor. This single-center retrospective study investigated the associations between pretransplant physical function assessed by the Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System® Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) computer adaptive testing and early posttransplant outcomes. We analyzed 154 adult kidney-alone transplant recipients. The median pretransplant PROMIS-PF score was 43 (interquartile range, 39–47). Patient characteristics were not significantly different across the score category (normal, score ≥45; mild, score of 40–45; and moderate/severe, score <40). The PROMIS-PF score was not associated with length of transplant hospital stay, delayed graft function, 6-month and 12-month graft function, or 12-month patient and graft survival. However, a lower PROMIS-PF score was significantly associated with a higher risk of emergency room visits [adjusted odds ratios compared to normal: mild, 1.68 (95% confidence interval, 0.76–3.83); moderate/severe, 3.23 (1.34–7.79)] and rehospitalization [adjusted odds ratios: mild, 2.61 (1.16–5.90); moderate/severe, 2.53 (1.07–6.00)] within 1 month posttransplant. Results suggest that PROMIS-PF is a practical tool for assessing physical function in kidney transplant candidates. Larger studies are needed to confirm the utility of PROMIS-PF to identify transplant candidates who would benefit from pretransplant prehabilitation.
Impact of the Biostimulants Algevit and Razormin on the Salinity Tolerance of Two Tomato Cultivars
Authors: Covașă Mihaela , Slabu Cristina , Marta Alina Elena , Ostaci Ștefănica , Jităreanu Carmenica Doina
Published: January 2025

The global water crisis and the expansion of saline soils present significant challenges to agricultural sustainability. To address these issues, innovative solutions are needed to harness seawater and adapt plants to high-salinity conditions. Biostimulants represent an innovative strategy for mitigating the adverse effects of salinity on crops. This study examined the impact of two biostimulants, Algevit (based on marine algae) and Razormin (based on plant extracts), on the salinity tolerance of two Romanian tomato varieties, Buzau 4 and Buzau 22. The research was conducted under greenhouse conditions and assessed parameters such as plant height, flower and fruit counts, photosynthetic fluorescence, chlorophyll content, stomatal conductance, and proline concentration. The results showed that Algevit had a more significant impact compared to Razormin, enhancing plant growth, maintaining higher chlorophyll levels (in the Algevit variants, values ranged from 27.43 to 44.99 SPAD units, while in the Razormin variants, they ranged from 24.23 to 41.63 SPAD units), and improving photosynthetic efficiency. Both tomato varieties responded positively to the treatments, with Buzau 4 demonstrating greater salinity tolerance, especially when treated with Algevit. These findings suggest that integrating biostimulants into crop management can effectively reduce the negative effects of salinity and support sustainable agriculture in salt-affected regions. The study highlights the importance of applying biostimulants in managing soil salinity and freshwater scarcity in the context of climate change.
Resequencing Composite Kazakh Whiteheaded Cattle: Insights into Ancestral Breed Contributions, Selection Signatures, and Candidate Genetic Variants
Authors: Khamzina Aigerim K. , Igoshin Alexander V. , Muslimova Zhadyra U. , Turgumbekov Asset A. , Khussainov Damir M. , Yudin Nikolay S. , Ussenbekov Yessengali S. , Larkin Denis M.
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the genetic architecture of the Kazakh Whiteheaded (KWH) cattle, applying population genetics approaches to resequenced genomes. FST analysis of 66 cattle breeds identified breeds for admixture analysis. At K = 19, the composite KWH breed showed contributions from Hereford, Altai, and Kalmyk cattle. Principal component analysis and ancestry inference confirmed these patterns, with KWH genomes comprising 45% Hereford, 30% Altai, and 25% Kalmyk ancestries. Haplotype analysis revealed 73 regions under putative selection in KWH, some shared with Hereford (e.g., with the gene DCUN1D4) and some KWH-specific (e.g., with the gene SCMH1). FST analysis identified 105 putative intervals under selection, with key genes (KITLG, SLC9C1, and SCMH1) involved in coat colour and physiological adaptations. Functional enrichment using The Database for Annotation, Visualization, and Integrated Discovery (DAVID) in selected regions highlighted clusters associated with developmental processes, ubiquitination, and fatty acid metabolism. Point FST identified 42 missense variants in genes enriched in functions related to economically important traits. Local ancestry inference revealed genomic intervals with predominantly non-Hereford ancestry, including high Altai (e.g., SCAPER) and Kalmyk (e.g., SRD5A2) contributions, while Hereford-dominated regions included genes ENO1 and RERE. This work elucidates the genomic contributions and adaptive signatures of selection shaping the KWH breed, providing candidate genetic variants for breeding program improvement and enhanced genome predictions.
Elevated Serum Levels of Acid Sphingomyelinase in Female Patients with Episodic and Chronic Migraine
Authors: Ouro Alberto , Castro-Mosquera Mónica , Rodríguez-Arrizabalaga Mariña , Debasa-Mouce Manuel , Custodia Antía , Aramburu-Núñez Marta , Romaus-Sanjurjo Daniel , Casas Josefina , Lema Isabel , Castillo José , Leira Rogelio , Sobrino Tomás
Published: January 2025

Migraine is one of the most common neurological disorders and the second most disabling human condition. The molecular mechanisms of migraine have been linked to neuropeptide release, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress and inflammatory processes. Acid sphingomyelinase (aSMase) is a secreted enzyme that leads to sphingomyelin degradation to produce ceramide. Its activity has been associated with several molecular processes involved in migraine. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aims to study the potential role of aSMase in patients with episodic and chronic migraine. In this cross-sectional pilot study, serum samples from female healthy controls (n = 23), episodic migraine (EM) patients (n = 31), and chronic migraine (CM) patients (n = 28) were studied. The total serum levels of aSMase were determined by ELISA. In addition, the serum levels of sphingomyelin (SM), dihydro-sphingomyelin (dhSM), ceramide (Cer), and dihydro-ceramide (dhCer) were determined by mass spectrometry as biomarkers involved in the main molecular pathways associated with aSMase. aSMase serum levels were found significantly elevated in both EM (3.62 ± 1.25 ng/mL) and CM (3.07 ± 0.95 ng/mL) compared with controls (1.58 ± 0.72 ng/mL) (p < 0.0001). ROC analysis showed an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.94 (95% CI: 0.89–0.99, p < 0.0001) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.81–0.99, p < 0.0001) for EM and CM compared to controls, respectively. Regarding other biomarkers associated with aSMase’s pathways, total SM serum levels were significantly decreased in both EM (173,534 ± 39,096 pmol/mL, p < 0.01) and CM (158,459 ± 40,010 pmol/mL, p < 0.0001) compared to the control subjects (219,721 ± 36,950 pmol/mL). Elevated serum levels of aSMase were found in EM and CM patients compared to the control subjects. The decreased SM levels found in both EM and CM indicate that aSMase activity plays a role in migraine. Therefore, aSMase may constitute a new therapeutic target in migraine that should be further investigated.
Synthesis of Hydrogel-Based Microgels and Nanogels Toward Therapeutic and Biomedical Applications
Authors: Choi Yuri , Koh Hye Yeon , Han Jung Y. , Seo Soonmin
Published: January 2025

Hydrogel is one of the most prominent biomaterials in therapeutic and biomedical engineering, benefiting from its biocompatibility, chemical/physical tunability, and wide versatility to various fabrication techniques. One remarkable advance in the latest hydrogel research is the micro/nanofabrication technologies, which utilize unique mechanical and chemical properties of hydrogel, various chemical reaction mechanisms, and multidisciplinary approaches to realize innovative systems at these size scales. This review reports a comprehensive overview on the latest advances in fabrication of hydrogel-based micro- and nano-systems with an emphasis on their biomedical and therapeutic applications. Challenges and prospects are discussed from the material, fabrication, and system design perspectives to develop effective, personalized, and versatile hydrogel-based therapies.
Cost-Effective FEM Simulation Through Solid Bodies of the Thermal Behavior of Lattice Structures Printed via PBF-LB
Authors: Arrizubieta Jon Iñaki , Gómez Gaizka , Lamikiz Aitzol , Legorburu June , Agirre Xabier , Galdos Lander , Sainz Shandra
Published: January 2025

Laser additive manufacturing, and specifically laser powder bed fusion (PBF-LB) enables the production of complex geometries with optimized features that provide unique features to components. One of the main advantages of PBF-LB is its capability to produce reticular or lattice-type geometries that considerably reduce the weight of the components. Lattice geometries are widely used to optimize components mechanically, but, to date, their thermal capabilities have not been studied in depth. Therefore, in the present work, the thermal behavior of lattice structures is analyzed experimentally and correlated with finite element models. Nevertheless, the simulation of lattice structures is highly costly from a computational point of view. In order to solve this issue, the present work develops a novel methodology based on fictitious solid materials that behave thermally as the lattice structure. The results show strong resemblance between the thermal behavior of fictitious solid and lattice structures, with temperature errors below 2%, and it reduces the computational cost required for their simulation by up to 90%. Moreover, the obtained results open the door to the design of anisotropic components based on lattice structures, as well as increasing the design capabilities for this type of structure.
Monitoring and Improving Aircraft Maintenance Processes Using IT Systems
Authors: Żyluk Andrzej , Zieja Mariusz , Kawka Karol , Główczyk Bartłomiej
Published: January 2025

Aircraft maintenance is a complex, multifaceted process that greatly benefits from IT systems designed to improve supervision, record keeping, and task management. This study focuses on the role of a dedicated mobile application, integrated into the broader IT Aircraft Maintenance Support System, which supports maintenance operations for the M-346 BIELIK training aircraft. Aircraft maintenance is a highly intricate and multifaceted process that significantly benefits from advanced IT systems designed to enhance supervision, streamline record keeping, and optimize task management. This study explores the pivotal role of a dedicated mobile application integrated into the broader IT Aircraft Maintenance Support System, specifically tailored to support the maintenance operations of the M-346 BIELIK training aircraft. By focusing on the analysis of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITSs), the research highlights how the application contributes to maintenance reliability and operational efficiency, with sustainability considerations in mind. The ITS-based approach assesses maintenance scheduling, tracking, and resource optimization, thereby enhancing the reliability of aircraft operations while reducing unnecessary resource consumption. This alignment with sustainable practices not only improves reliability characteristics and exploitation rates but also positively impacts the efficiency and effectiveness of aviation training. By accurately estimating the time requirements of specific maintenance tasks during periodic inspections, the application aids in identifying and addressing organizational bottlenecks, ultimately supporting both operational sustainability and improved task reliability across maintenance activities.
Simulation and Experimental Study on the Oil Circulation Rate (OCR) of R290 Electrical Vehicle Compressors
Authors: Chen Jianhong , Tao Leren , Huang Lihao , Wang Xiaofei , Li Xingjiang , Chen Haonan
Published: January 2025

This paper establishes a simulation model for the performance of an R290 variable frequency compressor in automotive air conditioning and sets up a compressor performance testing system. It investigates the effects of different evaporation temperatures, condensation temperatures, compressor speeds, and pressure ratios on the oil circulation rate (OCR), as well as the impact of various oil circulation rates on the performance of the R290 compressor. As the comparison between simulation and experimental data shows, compressor performance predictions from the simulation model align with experimental results when the OCR is not taken into consideration. Experimental results indicate that the OCR increases with a rising evaporation temperature, decreases with a lowering condensation temperature, and increases with higher compressor speeds. The simulation model shows a minor deviation when predicting volumetric efficiency, while errors are larger when predicting isentropic efficiency and the discharge temperature. Isentropic efficiency and the discharge temperature show a notable impact from the OCR. Additionally, for system cooling capacity, power, and COP predictions, when the OCR is within the range of 2~10%, the accuracy of the simulation model proves satisfactory, with deviations within 5%.
Hyperspectral Image Classification Based on Hybrid Depth-Wise Separable Convolution and Dual-Branch Feature Fusion Network
Authors: Dai Hualin , Yue Yingli , Liu Qi
Published: January 2025

Recently, advancements in convolutional neural networks (CNNs) have significantly contributed to the advancement of hyperspectral image (HSI) classification. However, the problem of limited training samples is the primary obstacle to obtaining further improvements in HSI classification. The traditional methods relying solely on 2D-CNN for feature extraction underutilize the inter-band correlations of HSI, while the methods based on 3D-CNN alone for feature extraction lead to an increase in training parameters. To solve the above problems, we propose an HSI classification network based on hybrid depth-wise separable convolution and dual-branch feature fusion (HDCDF). The dual-branch structure is designed in HDCDF to extract simultaneously integrated spectral–spatial features and obtain complementary features via feature fusion. The proposed modules of 2D depth-wise separable convolution attention (2D-DCAttention) block and hybrid residual blocks are applied to the dual branch, respectively, further extracting more representative and comprehensive features. Instead of full 3D convolutions, HDCDF uses hybrid 2D–3D depth-wise separable convolutions, offering computational efficiency. Experiments are conducted on three benchmark HSI datasets: Indian Pines, University of Pavia, and Salinas Valley. The experimental results show that the proposed method showcases superior performance when the training samples are extremely limited, outpacing the state-of-the-art method by an average of 2.03% in the overall accuracy of three datasets, which shows that HDCDF has a certain potential in HSI classification.
Modal Parameter Identification of the Improved Random Decrement Technique-Stochastic Subspace Identification Method Under Non-Stationary Excitation
Authors: Wu Jinzhi , Hu Jie , Ma Ming , Zhang Chengfei , Ma Zenan , Zhou Chunjuan , Sun Guojun
Published: January 2025

Commonly used methods for identifying modal parameters under environmental excitations assume that the unknown environmental input is a stationary white noise sequence. For large-scale civil structures, actual environmental excitations, such as wind gusts and impact loads, cannot usually meet this condition, and exhibit obvious non-stationary and non-white-noise characteristics. The theoretical basis of the stochastic subspace method is the state-space equation in the time domain, while the state-space equation of the system is only applicable to linear systems. Therefore, under non-smooth excitation, this paper proposes a stochastic subspace method based on RDT. Firstly, this paper uses the random decrement technique of non-stationary excitation to obtain the free attenuation response of the response signal, and then uses the stochastic subspace identification (SSI) method to identify the modal parameters. This not only improves the signal-to-noise ratio of the signal, but also improves the computational efficiency significantly. A non-stationary excitation is applied to the spatial grid structure model, and the RDT-SSI method is used to identify the modal parameters. The identification results show that the proposed method can solve the problem of identifying structural modal parameters under non-stationary excitation. This method is applied to the actual health monitoring of stadium grids, and can also obtain better identification results in frequency, damping ratio, and vibration mode, while also significantly improving computational efficiency.
Lactate Profiling and the Agreement Among Various Lactate Threshold Methods in Professional and Youth Soccer Players
Authors: Michaelides Marcos , Parpa Koulla
Published: January 2025

The lactate threshold (LT) and the associated running velocities are important markers used to define physical readiness and prescribe exercise intensity in athletes. This study examined blood LT during maximal cardiopulmonary exercise testing using four methods: visual inspection, log-to-log transformation, the Dmax method, and the 4 mmol/L fixed blood lactate accumulation (FBLA) method. The participants included 96 soccer players, comprising 52 professional (27.37 ± 5.67 years) and 44 elite youth players (16.20 ± 0.8 years). A total of 554 capillary blood lactate samples were analyzed. Bland–Altman and ICC analyses for running velocities, determined using the four LT detection methods, demonstrated poor agreement in both groups. Results indicated that the youth players had significantly (p < 0.05) higher V̇O2 max (59.89 ± 5.6 mL·kg−1·min−1) compared to the professional players (56.43 ± 4.81 mL·kg−1·min−1). However, the professional players had significantly better running performance and running economy. A two-way ANOVA revealed a main effect of playing standard, with professional players exhibiting significantly higher 4 mmol/L FBLA LT compared to youth players. A mixed-design ANOVA indicated a significant (p < 0.01) interaction, with the youth exhibiting higher lactate accumulation only after completing the 18 km/h stage. Therefore, youth and professional players should not use the different LT concepts interchangeably. Additionally, the 4 mmol/L FBLA LT method appears to be more robust for youth soccer players.