bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptomic analysis of early stages of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ infection in susceptible and resistant species after inoculation by Diaphorina citri feeding on young shoots
Authors: Alves Mônica N. , Cifuentes-Arenas Juan , Niñoles Regina , Raiol-Junior Laudecir Lemos , Carvalho Everton , Quirós-Rodriguez Isabel , Ferro Jesus A. , Licciardello Concetta , Alquezar Berta , Carmona Lourdes , Forment Javier , Bombarely Aureliano , Wulff Nelson A. , Peña Leandro , Gadea José
Published: February 2025

Huanglongbing (HLB) is a devastating disease of citrus plants caused by the non-culturable phloem-inhabiting bacterium Candidatus Liberibacter ssp., being Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus (CLas) the most aggressive species. CLas is vectored by the psyllid Diaphorina citri and introduced into sieve cells, establishing a successful infection in all Citrus species. Partial or complete resistance has been documented in the distant relatives Murraya paniculata and Bergera koenigii, respectively, providing excellent systems to investigate the molecular basis of HLB-resistance. It has been shown previously that the first weeks after bacterial release into the phloem are critical for the establishment of the bacterium. In this study, a thorough transcriptomic analysis of young flushes exposed to CLas-positive and negative psyllids has been performed in Citrus × sinensis, as well as in the aforementioned resistant species, along the first eight weeks after exposure. Our results indicate that the resistant species do not deploy a classical immunity response upon CLas recognition. Instead, transcriptome changes are scarce and only a few genes are differentially expressed when flushes exposed to CLas-positive and negative psyllid are compared. Functional analysis suggests that primary metabolism and other basic cellular functions could be rewired in the resistant species to limit infection. Transcriptomes of young flushes of the three species are very different, supporting the existence of distinct biochemical niches for the bacterium. These findings suggest that both intrinsic metabolic inadequacies to CLas survival, as well as inducible reprogramming of physiological functions upon CLas recognition, could orchestrate together restriction of bacterial multiplication in these resistant hosts.
Design and testing of the key technology of the cotton direct seeding machine
Authors: Song WEI , Hongyun Liu
Published: February 2025

The paper aims to slove the problems of low sowing depth qualification index and poor seeding stability during in summer direct-sown cotton in the Yangtze River Basin China. To this end, a cotton seeder with rotary tillage and electric drive seeding was designed. In order to satisfy the agronomic requirements of summer direct-sown cotton, the key structural parameters of this planter were determined, and the key factors affecting the stability of seeding depth were derived. The test method of rotary orthogonal was adopted, with the initial traction angle, initial spring increment, and Working speed of the machine serving as the test factors, and the sowing depth qualification index and sowing depth consistency coefficient of variation serving as the test indexes. The results demonstrated when the initial traction angle was set to 0°. the initial spring increment was 15mm, and the Working speed was 3km·h−1, the sowing depth qualification index was obtained to be 95.59%, and the sowing depth consistency coefficient of variation was 7.38%. A test was conducted to assess the accuracy of the speed control of the electric drive seed dispenser of the sowing system. The plant spacing was set at 15, 18, and 20 cm, and the speed was set at 4.01-6.10 km·h−1. The results demonstrated the overall mean adjustment time for the speed of the seed dispenser disk was 1.04 seconds, with a standard deviation of 0.36; the overall mean steady-state error was 0.28 r/min, with a standard deviation of 0.21 r/min; the overall mean control accuracy was 98.86%, with a standard deviation of 1.01. A field test was conducted with a set plant spacing of 15 cm and a seeder speed that was not fixed. The sowing plant spacing was able to focus on the set plant spacing within the range of the qualified grain spacing (15 ± 3 cm) of the emergence of seedlings. The average sowing emergence Conformity index was 86.48%, with a minimum of 83.81%.
Nothing but a piano-key: populism as a consequence of relational pathology
Authors: Dufek Pavel , Ruzicka Adam
Published: February 2025

The paper examines populism as a symptom of a dysfunctional relationship between the few (elites) and the many (the masses) in liberal democracies. We take as the core broken promise of contemporary liberal democracies the failure to deliver the assurance of there being a meaningful relationship between the citizens' self and the increasingly complex, difficult-to-understand world. Employing Frank's theory of credible commitment, we propose that populism's success lies in its ability to signal commitment through seemingly irrational actions, a strategy which creates trustworthiness on the part of populist leaders but exacerbates generalized distrust in the institutional system. Moreover, the non-populist forms of trust-building find it difficult to compete with such an emotionally loaded appeal. In the latter parts of the paper, we discuss the detrimental effects of the populist way of creating trust on democracy's self-correcting capacities, contending that it engenders its own relational pathologies and ultimately undermines the very system it seeks to correct. Finally, we address populism's disruptive impact on public justification of collectively binding norms and shared institutions. By highlighting the relational dimension of populism, the paper urges a nuanced understanding of populism's appeal as a reaction to, and simultaneously an amplifier of, the pathologies of liberal democracies.
The effect of shared leadership on employee resilience: wielding the double-edged sword
Authors: Hao Ma , Min Yan Ai , Jie Liu , Yuling Deng
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This investigation delves into the ambidextrous impacts that shared leadership imparts on the resilience of employees through the incorporation of the Job Demands-Resources framework to delineate the underlying mechanisms. Furthermore, it explores the organizational boundary factors that enhance employees' resilience, so as to explore the ways to improve employees resilience.

Methods

This research chose to use an online questionnaire at two time points with a analysis of 246 valid questionnaires. Surveys were disseminated electronically through esteemed third-party survey platforms so jump.

Results

Empirical findings illustrate that SLP fosters resilience by bolstering FWA while concurrently heightening role overload and hampering resilience. Furthermore, the study examines how goal clarity modifies these conflicting outcomes. Empirical evidence corroborates the positive moderating role of goal clarity in enhancing the influence of SLP on FWA, and the hypothesized moderating impact of goal clarity on the association between SLP and employees' perception of role overload is also affirmed.

Discussion

This research contributes to the scholarly discourse by illuminating a more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between shared leadership and employee resilience, and further deepens insights into the moderating factors influencing employees resilience by assessing the moderating effect of goal clarity. It also offers practical insights into implementing shared leadership in a manner that harnesses its potential while mitigating its downsides on employee resilience.
Death and beauty: mortality salience and creatureliness increase self-objectification not only in females but also in males
Authors: Gao Yang , Lu Kexin , Ni Yichen , Shen Yang
Published: February 2025

Background

Self-objectification, the tendency to perceive oneself as an object subject to external evaluation, negatively impacts wellbeing, contributing to issues such as anxiety and eating disorders. While objectification theory outlines its societal underpinnings, it provides limited insight into the psychological mechanisms that sustain its prevalence. Terror Management Theory (TMT) posits that self-objectification functions as a defense against death anxiety, operating through two pathways: cultural worldview compliance (adherence to objectifying societal norms) and suppressing the awareness of creatureliness (avoiding awareness of humans’ biological vulnerability and animalistic nature). This research explores these mechanisms and their gender-specific dynamics under mortality salience (MS).

Methods

This study includes three experimental studies. The study 1 examined baseline gender differences in perceived creatureliness and adherence to objectification culture. Study 2 used a 2 (MS/control) × 2 (gender: male/female) design to investigate the effects of MS and gender on self-objectification with cultural worldview compliance as a continuous moderator. Study 3 employed a 2 (MS/control) × 2 (creatureliness: heightened/reduced) × 2 (gender: male/female) design to assess the effects of creatureliness salience on self-objectification.

Results

Study 1 revealed that women were more culturally objectified, whereas men exhibited higher perceived creatureliness. However, Study 2 and Study 3 found no significant gender-related interactions in self-objectification. Study 2 showed that MS increased self-objectification across genders, with women displaying higher self-objectification due to stronger adherence to objectification cultural norms. Study 3 demonstrated that heightened creatureliness salience amplified self-objectification under MS for both genders, highlighting the universal role of creatureliness suppression in existential defenses.

Conclusion

These findings provide evidence for dual pathways—cultural worldview compliance and creatureliness suppression—underlying self-objectification as a defense against death anxiety. However, while cultural compliance explains gender differences in self-objectification at baseline, creatureliness suppression appears to function universally across genders. This study clarifies the boundaries of gender differences, emphasizing that the observed gender differences were limited to perceptions of objectification and creatureliness, rather than self-objectification itself. These insights contribute to interventions targeting the maladaptive effects of self-objectification, advocating for gender-sensitive approaches to enhance psychological wellbeing.
The psychologically rich life questionnaire: Italian validation and exploration of its relationships with mindfulness, self-compassion, and cognitive fusion within the health psychology framework
Authors: Mauro Federica , Di Trani Michela , Simione Luca
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Based on the theoretical framework that a fulfilling life encompasses happiness, meaning, and psychological richness, this study introduces the Italian translation of the Psychologically Rich Life Questionnaire (PRLQ-I), exploring its connection with mindfulness, self-compassion, cognitive fusion, and anxiety, positing psychological richness as a critical, yet distinct, component of well-being. Psychological richness, characterized by diverse and interesting experiences, complements the hedonic and eudaimonic dimensions of well-being, offering a broader perspective on what constitutes a meaningful life.

Methods

After a subsequent back translation procedure, the resulting questionnaire version was checked for the comprehensibility of the items. Then, the PRLQ-I’s reliability and single-factor structure were evaluated through exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses in a large sample (N = 418) of the Italian population, as well as convergent and discriminant validity.

Results

The exploratory factor analysis confirmed the original PRLQ structure, indicating one dimension, namely psychological richness, and the excellent internal consistency of the questionnaire. The confirmatory factor analysis revealed a good fit of the model for the one-factor structure. We then showed that psychological richness is positively associated with mindfulness and self-compassion, confirming that psychological richness is related to other happiness constructs but appears to be distinct from them. Moreover, psychological richness is inversely related to anxiety and cognitive fusion.

Discussion

These results demonstrate the optimal reliability of the scale, even in its Italian version. They moreover provide suggestions for incorporating these related dimensions into programs designed to promote psychological richness, confirming its role in enhancing psychological well-being.
Exploring the relationships among online social capital, Internet self-efficacy, mental health, and cyberbully-victim roles in adolescents: a structural equation model
Authors: Chen Qiqi , Guo Shaolingyun , Chan Ko Ling
Published: February 2025

The prevalence and effects of cyberbullying are well-established, while there is sparse evidence addressing the experiences of those in vocational schools. Social capital and self-efficacy have attracted significant public and scholarly interest, but research on these factors in cyberspace remains limited in scope. This study aims to comprehensively investigate the pathways through which online social capital and Internet self-efficacy mediate the development of mental health consequences among adolescent cyberbullying victims. A total of 1,716 students in Grades 8-12 from public and vocational schools in China participated in the study. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was applied to specify the relationships between online social capital, Internet self-efficacy, cyberbullying, and mental health problems. Results showed that 12.12% of students reported themselves as cyber bully-victims. Internet self-efficacy could potentially mediate the effects of cyberbullying victimization and mental health problems in both school settings. Online social capital and Internet self-efficacy play mediating roles in the relationship between cyberbullying and mental health problems in public school samples. No significant effect of online social capital was found in the vocational school sample. The findings provide insights for proactive intervention in developing adequate online social capital and Internet self-efficacy training for cyberbullying prevention. Discussions on differentiated interventions for vocational school students are also presented to inspire future research and practice.
Psychiatric disorders in psychosocially burdened mothers with young children: a population-based cohort study in Germany
Authors: Fricke Julia , Bolster Marie , Icke Katja , Lisewski Natalja , Kuchinke Lars , Ludwig-Körner Christiane , Schlensog-Schuster Franziska , Reinhold Thomas , Berghöfer Anne , Roll Stephanie , Keil Thomas
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Mothers are exposed to a variety of stressors in the early years of their children’s lives, being at risk for mental illness. The aim of our analysis was to estimate the type and frequency of and potential risk factors for psychiatric disorders in mothers with children aged up to three years.

Methods

Based on random population samples from three urban areas in Germany, mothers of infants were recruited for a population-based cohort study as part of the SKKIPPI project. The subjects underwent a two-stage screening process at baseline: A standardized psychiatric diagnostic interview using the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (M.I.N.I- 7) was conducted only with mothers who showed an elevated psychosocial and mental health burden. Mothers with specific psychiatric disorders were invited for follow-up after six months.

Results

814 mothers participated in the psychiatric interview, 304 in the follow-up. At baseline interview, 5% of the mothers had at least one current psychiatric disorder. Generalized anxiety disorders (2%) and major depressive episodes (1%) were the most common disorders. Of these mothers, 42% were still affected at the 6-month follow-up. Risk factors were having at least one strong stressor in life, a severe negative experience in the own childhood, a previously diagnosed psychiatric disorder, a low/medium educational level, and having already received support through early childhood support programs.

Discussion

The occurrence of psychiatric disorders in mothers with young children seemed lower than previously reported, in the majority symptoms disappeared after 6 months. The study provides important information on the frequency of psychiatric disorders in this group and enables care services to be adapted to meet their needs.
Multi-view united transformer block of graph attention network based autism spectrum disorder recognition
Authors: Jemima D. Darling , Selvarani A. Grace , Lovenia J. Daphy Louis
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) identification poses significant challenges due to its multifaceted and diverse nature, necessitating early discovery for operative involvement. In a recent study, there has been a lot of talk about how deep learning algorithms might improve the diagnosis of ASD by analyzing neuroimaging data.

Method

To overrule the negatives of current techniques, this research proposed a revolutionary strategic model called the Unified Transformer Block for Multi-View Graph Attention Networks (MVUT_GAT). For the purpose of extracting delicate outlines from physical and efficient functional MRI data, MVUT_GAT combines the advantages of multi-view learning with attention processes.

Result

With the use of the ABIDE dataset, a thorough analysis shows that MVUT_GAT performs better than Mutli-view Site Graph Convolution Network (MVS_GCN), outperforming it in accuracy by +3.40%. This enhancement reinforces our suggested model’s effectiveness in identifying ASD. The result has implications over higher accuracy metrics. Through improving the accuracy and consistency of ASD diagnosis, MVUT_GAT will help with early interference and assistance for ASD patients.

Discussion

Moreover, the proposed MVUT_GAT’s which patches the distance between the models of deep learning and medical visions by helping to identify biomarkers linked to ASD. In the end, this effort advances the knowledge of recognizing autism spectrum disorder along with the powerful ability to enhance results and the value of people who are undergone.
Exploring hazardous alcohol use and its determinants among health professionals in Bahir Dar, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Koye Selam , Tinsae Techilo , Menberu Melak , Tareke Minale
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Alcohol consumption among health professionals can have serious and multifaceted impacts, affecting both the individual and their professional responsibilities. Despite its critical importance, there is limited research on the burden and contributing factors of hazardous alcohol use among health professionals in Ethiopia. This study aimed to evaluate the magnitude and determinants of hazardous alcohol use among health professionals in Bahir Dar City, Northwest Ethiopia.

Method

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June 1-30, 2020, involving 384 health professionals. Participants were selected through a simple random sampling method, stratified by profession. Data were collected using a structured and semi-structured self-administered questionnaire, and hazardous alcohol use was assessed using the 10-item Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT). Data entry was done using EpiData Version 4.6, and analysis was carried out with SPSS Version 23. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were employed to estimate crude and adjusted odds ratios, respectively, with a 95% confidence interval. A p-value of less than 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

The burden of hazardous alcohol use among health professionals was 16.4% (95% CI: 13%-20.3%). Significant factors associated with hazardous alcohol use included having a family history of alcohol consumption (AOR=2.68, 95% CI: 1.27-5.66), mild psychological distress (AOR=2.7, 95% CI: 1.12-6.50), moderate/severe psychological distress (AOR=5.84, 95% CI: 2.08-16.37), lifetime Khat use (AOR=10.44, 95% CI: 3.96-27.53), and possessing a diploma-level education (AOR=3.56, 95% CI: 1.28-9.87).

Conclusion

The high prevalence of hazardous alcohol use among health professionals in Bahir Dar City underscores an urgent need for targeted intervention and prevention strategies. Significant risk factors, including family history of alcohol use, psychological distress, Khat use, and educational level. To reduce hazardous alcohol use, the study recommends mental health programs, workplace policies promoting well-being, and integrated prevention and treatment strategies for alcohol and khat use.
Is forest bathing a panacea for mental health problems? A narrative review
Authors: Chen Hongxia , Meng Zhongji , Luo Jie
Published: February 2025

Background

The fast pace of modem life brings great pressure, which lead to physical and mental health issues. Researches have demonstrated that forest bathing can considerably alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, eliminate negative emotions and promote mental wellbeing. We presented evidences of the positive impact of forest bathing on mental health in the context rapid urbanization and surging health needs in the post-pandemic era, and outlined the current insights into the related factors affecting the effect of forest bathing, as to provide directions for future interventions or research.

Method

The electronic databases PubMed, Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science Core Collections and the China Academic Journals (CAJ) offered through the Full-text Database (CNKI) were searched for relevant studies published from the inception of the databases to December 2024. The initial search strategy was performed using keywords, MeSH terms, and free text words such as “forest bathing”, “forest medicine”, “mental health pressure”, “anxiety”, “depression”, “cortisol”, etc.

Results

The synthesis of the findings in the included studies revealed that forest bathing interventions might improve mental and physical health, reduce blood pressure, improve sleep quality and boost immunity, as well as alleviate depression, anxiety, and stress. Furthermore, the effect of forest bathing on mental health indicators and the differences in these results among different populations varied. Forest environment, tree species, exposure duration, season, composition and concentration of volatile organic compounds have an impact on the effect of forest bathing.

Conclusions

Forest bathing were effective in lowering cortisol levels, reducing sympathetic nerve activity, as well as improving negative mood, which could serve as a non-pharmacological treatment for mental health in the general population.
The impact of diabetes on chronic pain in different body regions among adults aged 50 and older: a cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Ding Min , Ding Anle , Zhu Lijie , Xie Xiaoyun
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study investigates the association between diabetes and chronic pain across various body regions in individuals aged 50 years and older, while assessing the influence of gender, hypertension status, age, and glycemic control on this relationship.

Methods

Data from the 2015 China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (CHARLS) database included 10,315 participants, with 1,983 diabetic and 8,332 non-diabetic individuals. Logistic regression models assessed the relationship between diabetes and chronic pain, adjusting for confounders. Subgroup analyses were conducted based on gender, age, and hypertension status, and the risk of pain in diabetic patients with well-controlled glycemia was compared to that in non-diabetic individuals.

Results

Diabetes significantly increased the risk of pain in multiple body regions (p < 0.05). Diabetes was associated with a higher risk of headaches in males [OR = 1.33 (1.05–1. 69), p = 0.02] and individuals aged 65 or older [OR = 1.28 (1.04–1.58), p = 0.02]. Among non-hypertensive individuals, diabetes was not associated with an increased risk of pain. In females, hypertensives, and individuals under 65, diabetes significantly increased pain across multiple regions (p < 0.05). Diabetic individuals with well-controlled glycemia still showed a higher risk of finger [OR = 1.34 (1.03–1.76), p = 0.03] and toe pain [OR = 1.44 (1.05–1.99), p = 0.03] compared to non-diabetics.

Conclusion

Diabetes is linked to increased pain in multiple body regions, especially in females, hypertensives, and those under 65. Even with good glycemic control, diabetic individuals remain at higher risk for finger and toe pain.
How perceived risk of recurrence strengthens health management awareness in stroke patients: the chain mediating role of risk fear and health literacy
Authors: Lei Rong , Zhang Ming , Gui Gui , Yang Dajun , He Linli
Published: February 2025

Background

Prior research has found that perceived risk in stroke patients motivates health behaviors in visitors. However, the role that perceived risk of recurrence in stroke patients plays in reinforcing health management awareness during the motivation phase is unclear.

Objective

This study explores this issue by examining the effects of risk fear and health literacy on health management awareness due to perceived risk of recurrence in stroke patients.

Methods

We validated the effect of perceived risk of recurrence on health management awareness and its internal mechanism by constructing a structural equation model and including 763 stroke patients, extending the relevant literature and application of the Healthy Behavior Procedural Approach (HAPA) model.

Result

The results suggest that perceived risk of recurrence in stroke patients can effectively reinforce and improve health management awareness, with risk fear and health literacy having a chain-mediated role in this group relationship.

Conclusion

This study reveals the differential effects of perceived risk of recurrence, risk fear, and health literacy in stroke patients on health management awareness at the individual level, providing valuable guidance for healthcare practitioners and families to improve patients’ health outcomes and health well-being.
Technological functionality and system architecture of mobile health interventions for diabetes management: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yu Xinran , Wang Yifeng , Liu Zhengyang , Jung Euitay
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Despite advancements in digital health, systematic evaluations of mobile applications (Apps) for diabetes management are limited.

Methods

Researchers conducted searches on PUBMED, EMBASE, COCHRANE, SCOPUS, and WEB OF SCIENCE from inception to August 2024. The researchers included randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that investigated the effectiveness of app-based interventions in health management among diabetic patients. Reviewers were paired and independently conducted the screening of studies, data extraction, and evaluation of study quality. The primary outcome of interest was the modification of hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c). The researchers utilized a random effects model to calculate the weighted mean differences (WMDs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) and used the I2 statistic to assess study heterogeneity. Publication bias for the primary outcomes underwent assessment. Studies were Appraised for quality using the Cochrane Risk of Bias assessment.

Results

41 studies of 3911 initially identified articles that met the selection criteria. The results showed that Apps’ intervention significantly improved glycemic control in diabetic patients, with a mean reduction in HbA1c levels of 0.49% (95%CI: –0.65 to –0.32%) compared to standard care. The analysis also revealed that Apps enhanced patient self-management behaviors. Subgroup analyses failed to resolve heterogeneity, but studies consistently observed improved HbA1c levels. The quality assessment results indicated that most studies performed well in the completeness of outcome data and selective reporting.

Discussion

This meta-analysis confirms that mobile health applications with practical technological functionalities and system architectures are beneficial in managing diabetes. These applications significantly reduced HbA1c levels and improved self-management behaviors. Although some studies exhibited a moderate risk of bias, the overall evidence supports using these applications as valuable tools in diabetes care. Future research should standardize application features, refine system architectures, and address bias issues to enhance.

Systematic Review Registration

PROSPERO (CRD42023441365).
What is a Tonsillectomy and When is it Needed?
Authors: Rickard Brynn , Polley Hannah , Nejaty Adeline , Jekic Danica , Propst Evan J.
Published: February 2025

Tonsils are an essential part of the immune system. The tonsils are made of lymphatic tissue, which contains white blood cells to help us fight infections caused by germs. Tonsillitis occurs when the tonsils become infected by germs, making them red, swollen, and painful. For individuals with frequent tonsillitis or large tonsils that cause nighttime breathing difficulties, a surgical procedure to remove the tonsils, called a tonsillectomy, may be recommended. This surgery usually takes 30–60 min and can prevent future tonsil infections or nighttime breathing problems. Tonsillectomy surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed in children and most people have a successful recovery. These recoveries are made better by being able to eat soft foods like ice cream!
Is transphyseal intramedullary fixation of the distal radius in pediatric fractures a safe procedure? An MRI study
Authors: Giordano Marco , Florio Michela , Careri Silvia , Cirillo Marco , Aulisa Angelo Gabriele , Pezzoli Fabio Massimo , Falciglia Francesco
Published: February 2025

Background

Radius and ulna fractures are very common in the pediatric population. Despite the use of pinning through the growth plate, which was proposed in the past and is still being used to treat these fractures, an instrumental validation to define this procedure as safe has not yet been done. Because of this, in the absence of reliable data regarding the passage of fixation devices through the growth plate, most surgical techniques used for treating radius and ulna fractures are based on absolute respect for the growth cartilage. We conducted an MRI pilot study to evaluate the presence of any growth disturbances, bone bridge formation across the physis, or premature closure of the cartilage, to verify the correlation between wire diameter and the percentage of lesions tolerated by the growth plate and to confirm the safety of the trans-physeal pinning procedure. To specifically avoid the wrist fracture healing process near the growth plate as possible bias of the study, we enrolled only patients with mid-shaft forearm fractures.

Materials and methods

We evaluated 26 patients with diaphyseal forearm fractures who underwent intramedullary percutaneous transphyseal fixation of the distal radius with a Kirschner wire. Intramedullary K-wire and plaster cast were removed, without a second surgery or anesthesia, about 35-40 days after surgery. A clinical and radiographic evaluation was performed at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months from surgery. We conducted a comparative MRI evaluation of both wrists 12 months after the removal of the K-wire to exclude any growth plate damage related to the passage of the wire through it.

Results

clinical data underlined excellent results in most patients. Radiographic healing was achieved in all cases at three months. No significative cartilage disturbances related to the procedure were found in any patient. An asymmetrical bridge that did not correspond to the wire position was found in some older patients, probably related to the initial phase of the growth plate closure process.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that the percutaneous trans-physeal technique could become a valid alternative to the standard method, offering a rapid learning curve, shorter surgical times, and reduced healthcare costs.
Simplified Integrity Checking for an Expressive Class of Denial Constraints
Authors: Martinenghi Davide
Published: February 2025

Data integrity is crucial for ensuring data correctness and quality and is maintained through integrity constraints that must be continuously checked, especially in data-intensive systems like OLTP. While DBMSs handle very simple cases of constraints (such as primary key and foreign key constraints) well, more complex constraints often require ad hoc solutions. Research since the 1980s has focused on automatic and simplified integrity constraint checking, leveraging the assumption that databases are consistent before updates. This paper presents program transformation operators to generate simplified integrity constraints, focusing on complex constraints expressed in denial form. In particular, we target a class of integrity constraints, called extended denials, which are more general than tuple-generating dependencies and equality-generating dependencies. One of the main contributions of this study consists in the automatic treatment of such a general class of constraints, encompassing the all the most useful and common cases of constraints adopted in practice. Another contribution is the applicability of the proposed technique with a “preventive” approach; unlike all other methods for integrity maintenance, we check whether an update will violate the constraints before executing it, so we never have to undo any work, with potentially huge savings in terms of execution overhead. These techniques can be readily applied to standard database practices and can be directly translated into SQL.
Participation of Emerging Commercial Farmers in the Strategic Private-Sector Investment Interventions
Authors: Mnikathi Sandile Jason , Hlatshwayo Simphiwe Innocentia , Temitope Ojo , Ngidi Mjabuliseni Simon Cloapas
Published: February 2025

Private sector investment interventions serve as essential mechanisms for creating efficient, cost-effective financial solutions and technological support for emerging farmers in developing economies, yet their successful implementation is influenced by various contextual and socioeconomic factors. Using a quantitative research approach, this study examined the factors influencing participation in private sector investment interventions among 121 emerging commercial farmers in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, utilizing a Poisson regression model to analyze four key intervention areas: credit access, market access, technical support, and spot supply. The first-hurdle model revealed that age and training skills negatively influenced market access while the training period showed positive influence, and similarly, the second-hurdle equation demonstrated that employment status and training period positively influenced participation intensity levels, though age maintained its negative impact. The findings of the first-hurdle model reveal that age and training skills negatively influenced market participation. The study concludes that employment status and training period positively impacted technical support adoption, with household size and training period emerging as significant determinants of intervention success. The private sector needs to develop strategic partnership models that encourage emerging farmers to participate intensively in interventions that are designed to improve their production and productivity. There is a need for targeted capacity-building programmes and enhanced extension services to improve emerging commercial farmers’ participation in private-sector initiatives.
Failure State Identification and Fault Diagnosis Method of Vibrating Screen Bolt Under Multiple Excitation of Combine Harvester
Authors: Xu Jiaojiao , Jing Tiantian , Fang Meng , Li Pengcheng , Tang Zhong
Published: February 2025

The demanding operational conditions of combine harvesters induce substantial vibrations and component degradation, significantly impacting harvesting efficiency, safety, and overall machine reliability. Bolt loosening, a critical failure mode at the joints of various working parts of combine harvesters, is a prevalent concern. The complexity and heterogeneity of vibration signals in these machines present a considerable challenge for the timely and accurate detection of bolt loosening. This paper proposes a novel methodology for identifying and diagnosing vibrating screen bolt failure states under multiple excitation conditions, specifically tailored for the 4LZY-1.8(PRO688Q) combine harvester. The study initially analyzes the critical torque associated with bolt connection failure. Subsequently, vibration signals are acquired from the bolt connection of the vibrating screen, and time-frequency analysis is performed to characterize the degree of bolt loosening, the predominant vibration direction, and the causative frequency components. A high-dimensional feature matrix is then constructed utilizing a Gaussian kernel function. The efficacy of the proposed methodology is evaluated through training and testing a classification decision model. This study provides a robust theoretical foundation for the vibration-based fault diagnosis of bolt structures in combine harvesters.
Evaluation of a Prototype Variable-Frequency Soil-Moisture and EC Probe
Authors: Miyamoto Hideki , Masuda Naoki , Hirashima Yuta , Mojid Mohammad A. , Mainuddin Mohammed
Published: February 2025

Measuring surface soil moisture is vital for understanding water availability, agricultural productivity, and climate change impacts, as well as for drought prediction and water resource management. However, obtaining accurate data is challenging due to the lack of reliable probes that work across diverse soil types and conditions. This study evaluated a prototype dielectric probe developed by Daiki Rika Kogyo Co., Ltd., Saitama, Japan, through controlled laboratory experiments. The probe measures the real and imaginary parts of dielectric permittivity over 10–150 MHz in a 5.6 cm diameter, with a 2 cm length volume, achieving a ±2% accuracy for the real part of oil–ethanol and ethanol–water mixtures (3.26–79). The imaginary part of the dielectric permittivity of aqueous solutions is convertible into electrical conductivity (EC) with reasonable accuracy. For variably saturated sand, the real part is convertible to a volumetric soil-moisture content (≥0.10 m3m−3) using a custom equation. The probe’s variable-frequency measurements reduce the limitations of fixed-frequency approaches, accounting for the EC, clay, porosity, and organic matter effects. With its VNA principle and simultaneous measurement of dielectric properties, it offers innovative capabilities for addressing water management, agriculture, and climate prediction challenges.
Web-Based AI System for Detecting Apple Leaf and Fruit Diseases
Authors: Aksoy Serra , Demircioglu Pinar , Bogrekci Ismail
Published: February 2025

The present study seeks to improve the accuracy and reliability of disease identification in apple fruits and leaves through the use of state-of-the-art deep learning techniques. The research investigates several state-of-the-art architectures, such as Xception, InceptionV3, InceptionResNetV2, EfficientNetV2M, MobileNetV3Large, ResNet152V2, DenseNet201, and NASNetLarge. Among the models evaluated, ResNet152V2 performed best in the classification of apple fruit diseases, with a rate of 92%, whereas Xception proved most effective in the classification of apple leaf diseases, with 99% accuracy. The models were able to correctly recognize familiar apple diseases like blotch, scab, rot, and other leaf infections, showing their applicability in agriculture diagnosis. An important by-product of this research is the creation of a web application, easily accessible using Gradio, to conduct real-time disease detection through the upload of apple fruit and leaf images by users. The app gives predicted disease labels along with confidence values and elaborate information on symptoms and management. The system also includes a visualization tool for the inner workings of the neural network, thereby enabling higher transparency and trust in the diagnostic process. Future research will aim to widen the scope of the system to other crop species, with larger disease databases, and to improve explainability further to facilitate real-world agricultural application.
Impact of Sandbody Genetic Types on Tight Sandstone Reservoirs: A Case Study from the Shunan Area, Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Long Hui , Li Tang , Jiang Lin , Liu Tian , Deng Hucheng , Geng Chao , Li Chenghai , Yang Yue , Fu Meiyan , Wu Dong
Published: February 2025

The Shaximiao Formation in the Southwestern Sichuan Basin is rich in natural gas resources, but the genetic types of channel sandbodies remain unclear. This study investigated the sedimentary characteristics and sandbody genetic types of the Jurassic Shaximiao Formation using well core, logging, and reservoir property data. The results revealed that: (1) The Shaximiao Formation is predominated by shallow-water delta front facies, with delta plain facies present only in the Sha-1 Member. Lithologically, it exhibits a “mudstone-overlying-sandstone” pattern with channel sedimentary sequences portraying normal grading and various microfacies. (2) The sandstones of the Shaximiao Formation developed seven types of lithofacies. Based on the characteristics of lithofacies associations, six genetic types of sandbodies, i.e., deeply incised abrupt-transition, deeply incised gradual-transition, growth gradual-transition, progradational superimposed, progradational mouth bar, and suspension accretion sandbodies are recognized. The deeply incised abrupt-transition and deeply incised gradual-transition sandbodies have the best reservoir physical properties, while the suspension accretion sandbody has the worst. (3) These genetic types of sandbodies are controlled by the relative position of the channels and their relation to mouth bars, with reservoirs in deeply incised abrupt-transition and deeply incised gradual-transition sandbodies developed in the delta plain. (4) High-quality reservoirs are found in deeply incised abrupt-transition and gradual-transition sandbodies, where sedimentary processes strongly influence reservoir physical properties. This study provides new insights into the relationship between tight sandstone reservoirs and channel sandbody genetic types, offering guidance for exploration and development in similar regions.
Automated Docking System for LNG Loading Arm Based on Machine Vision and Multi-Sensor Fusion
Authors: Xiang Rui , Feng Wuwei , Song Songling , Zhang Hao
Published: February 2025

With the growth of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) demand, automation technology has become a key trend to improve the efficiency and safety of LNG handling. In this study, a novel automatic docking system is proposed which adopts a staged docking strategy based on a monocular camera for positioning and combines ultrasonic sensors to achieve multi-stage optimization in the fine docking stage. In the coarse docking stage, the system acquires flange image data through the monocular camera, calculates 3D coordinates based on geometric feature extraction and coordinate transformation, and completes the preliminary target localization and fast approach; in the fine docking stage, the ultrasonic sensor is used to measure the multidirectional distance deviation, and the fusion of the monocular data is used to make dynamic adjustments to achieve high-precision alignment and localization. Simulation and experimental verification show that the system has good robustness in complex environments, such as wind and waves, and can achieve docking accuracy within 3 mm, which is better than the traditional manual docking method. This study provides a practical solution for automated docking of LNG loading arms, which can significantly improve the efficiency and safety of LNG loading and unloading operations.
AI-Driven Random Forest Model and the Six Sigma Approach for Enhancing Offset Printing Process and Product Quality
Authors: Bratić Diana , Miljković Petar , Jurečić Denis , Grabarić Tvrtko
Published: February 2025

The Six Sigma methodology for quality improvement enabled a high degree of process compliance and enhanced process capability. This research develops a new model for optimizing the offset printing process based on the Six Sigma approach, with the aim of reducing process variability and achieving stable, predictable production outcomes. Special focus was placed on defining Critical Product Characteristics (CPCs) and Critical to Quality (CTQs) points and analysing their impact on process output quality, defined by the sigma level. Based on the research, variability limits of production parameters were defined to ensure consistency and high product quality. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the Six Sigma framework allowed for additional automation and model adaptation to changing production conditions. The use of the Random Forest model enabled efficient analysis of critical variability points, prediction of potential deviations, and real-time process adjustment. AI is utilized to improve precision and efficiency in quality management, which further enhances process stability and optimization in line with the dynamic demands of modern production. The proposed model represents an innovative approach that facilitates maintaining stable production results and provides a sustainable foundation for future process optimizations in the printing industry.
Immunotherapy and MASLD-Related HCC: Should We Reconsider the Role of Etiology in the Therapeutic Approach to HCC?
Authors: Vizioli Giuseppina , Nicoletti Alberto , Feliciani Daniela , Funaro Barbara , Zileri Dal Verme Lorenzo , Ponziani Francesca Romana , Zocco Maria Assunta , Gasbarrini Antonio , Gabrielli Maurizio
Published: February 2025

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) accounts for 90% of primary liver cancers and typically arises in the context of chronic liver disease. With the increasing prevalence of metabolic disorders, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has become the leading cause of chronic liver disease and the most rapidly increasing cause of HCC. The role of dysfunctional innate and adaptive immune responses in the development and progression of HCC is well-established, prompting numerous trials to evaluate the efficacy of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) in targeting tumor cells. These trials have yielded promising results, and ICIs, in combination with anti-vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) monoclonal antibodies, are now approved as first-line therapy for patients with metastatic or unresectable HCC, irrespective of the underlying liver disease. Notably, MASLD itself is characterized by immune system dysfunction, as metabolic inflammation plays a central role in its onset and progression. However, clinical studies and post-hoc analyses suggest that immunotherapy may be less effective in MASLD-associated HCC compared to viral-related HCC. This emerging evidence raises the question of whether the underlying liver disease influences the therapeutic response to ICIs in HCC. It may be time to consider tailoring therapeutic strategies for HCC based on the specific etiological, histological, and genotypical subgroups.