bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuroimaging insights into lung disease-related brain changes: from structure to function
Authors: He Miao , Liu Yubo , Guan Zhongtian , Li Chunlin , Zhang Zhixi
Published: February 2025

Lung diseases induce changes in brain structure and function, leading to a range of cognitive, emotional, and motor deficits. The concept of the lung-brain axis has been proposed through neuroanatomy, endocrine, and immune pathway, while a considerable number of studies also explored the existence of the lung-brain axis from a neuroimaging perspective. This survey summarizes studies exploring the relationship between lung disease and brain structure and function from neuroimaging perspective, particular in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). We have collated existing lung diseases studies and categorized them into four types: chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), lung cancer and other lung diseases. The observed structural and functional changes in the brain and cognitive dysfunction induced by lung diseases are discussed. We also present distinct pattern of brain changes in various lung diseases. Neuroimaging changes in COPD are concentrated in the frontal lobes, including gray matter atrophy, white matter damage, and reduced perfusion. Patients with COVID-19 exhibit extensive microhemorrhages and neuroinflammation, brain regions functionally connected to the primary olfactory cortex show greater changes. For lung cancer patients, brain changes are mainly attributed to the neurotoxicity of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, with damage concentrated in subcortical structures, patients with cancer pain demonstrate hyperconnectivity in motor and visual networks. The survey also discusses the pathological mechanisms revealed in neuroimaging studies and clinical significance of current studies. Finally, we analyzed current limitations, mainly in terms of small sample size, non-standardized criteria, reliance on correlation analyses, lack of longitudinal studies, and absence of reliable biomarkers. We suggest future research directions should include leveraging artificial intelligence for biomarker development, conducting longitudinal and multicenter studies, and investigating the systemic effects of lung disease on the brain and neuromodulation strategies.
Cross-modal congruency modulates evidence accumulation, not decision thresholds
Authors: Brožová Natálie , Vollmer Lukas , Kampa Björn , Kayser Christoph , Fels Janina
Published: February 2025

Audiovisual cross-modal correspondences (CMCs) refer to the brain's inherent ability to subconsciously connect auditory and visual information. These correspondences reveal essential aspects of multisensory perception and influence behavioral performance, enhancing reaction times and accuracy. However, the impact of different types of CMCs–arising from statistical co-occurrences or shaped by semantic associations–on information processing and decision-making remains underexplored. This study utilizes the Implicit Association Test, where unisensory stimuli are sequentially presented and linked via CMCs within an experimental block by the specific response instructions (either congruent or incongruent). Behavioral data are integrated with EEG measurements through neurally informed drift-diffusion modeling to examine how neural activity across both auditory and visual trials is modulated by CMCs. Our findings reveal distinct neural components that differentiate between congruent and incongruent stimuli regardless of modality, offering new insights into the role of congruency in shaping multisensory perceptual decision-making. Two key neural stages were identified: an Early component enhancing sensory encoding in congruent trials and a Late component affecting evidence accumulation, particularly in incongruent trials. These results suggest that cross-modal congruency primarily influences the processing and accumulation of sensory information rather than altering decision thresholds.
Tandem mass spectrometry in screening for inborn errors of metabolism: comprehensive bibliometric analysis
Authors: Kononets Victoria , Zharmakhanova Gulmira , Balmagambetova Saule , Syrlybayeva Lyazzat , Berdesheva Gulshara , Zhussupova Zhanna , Tautanova Aidana , Kurmambayev Yergen
Published: February 2025

Tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) for detection of inborn errors of metabolism (IEM) is recognized as an ethical, safe, simple, and reliable screening test. Presented bibliometric analysis aims to describe the network structure of the scientific community in the study area at the level of countries, institutions, authors, papers, keywords, and sources; scientific productivity, directions, and collaboration efforts in a considered period (1991–2024, May). Using the PRISMA method, we conducted a systematic search for articles reporting using MS/MS to screen for inherited metabolic disorders and inborn errors of metabolism collected from the Web of Science Core Collection (WoSCC). A total of 677 articles out of 826, by 3,714 authors, published in 245 journals, with 21,193 citations in 11,295 citing articles, with an average citation of 31.3 per article, and an H-index of 69 were retrieved from the WoSCC. The research status of MS/MS in IEM screening was identified. The most relevant current research directions and future areas of interest were revealed: “selective screening for IEM,” “new treatments for IEM,” “new disorders considered for MS/MS testing,” “ethical issues associated with newborn screening,” “new technologies that may be used for newborn screening,” and “use of a combination of MS/MS and gene sequencing”.
Thonningianin A ameliorates acetaminophen-induced liver injury by activating GPX4 and modulating endoplasmic reticulum stress
Authors: Lai Shanglei , Ye Yingyan , Ding Qinchao , Hu Xiaokai , Fu Ai , Wu Lan , Cao Wenjing , Liu Qingsheng , Dou Xiaobing , Qi Xuchen
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Acetaminophen (APAP) is widely used as an analgesic and antipyretic. However overdose APAP can lead to acute liver injury (ALI), representing a significant challenge for public health due to limited treatment options. Current research highlights the need for safer and more effective therapies for APAP-induced liver injury, especially those that target oxidative and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress pathways. This study investigates the protective effects of Thonningianin A (TA), a flavonoid compound derived from Penthorum chinense Pursh, in mitigating APAP-induced hepatotoxicity.

Methods

The experimental design involved administering TA at doses of 20 mg/kg and 40 mg/kg to C57BL/6 mice prior to inducing hepatotoxicity with APAP.

Results and discussion

TA treatment significantly lowered plasma ALT and AST levels, inhibited the production of inflammatory cytokines, and reduced oxidative stress markers in liver tissues. Furthermore, TA modulated apoptosis-related proteins by increasing BCL-2 expression while decreasing CHOP and BAX levels. It alleviated endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress by downregulating GRP78, p-PERK, and ATF4. Notably, liver-specific GPX4 knockdown, achieved through AAV-8-mediated shRNA delivery, abolished the hepatoprotective effects of TA, underscoring GPX4’s essential role in mediating TA-induced hepatoprotection. These findings suggest TA as a promising therapeutic agent in managing APAP-induced liver injury, with its unique action on both oxidative and ER stress pathways contributing to its hepatoprotective efficacy.
Comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the HMGR gene family of Asparagus taliensis and functional validation of AtaHMGR10 under different abiotic stresses
Authors: Zeng Liangqin , Brown Sylvia E. , Wu He , Dongchen Wenhua , Li Yunbin , Lin Chun , Liu Zhengjie , Mao Zichao
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A reductase (HMGR) is a key enzyme in the terpenoid biosynthetic pathway, playing a crucial role in plant stress responses. However, the HMGR gene family in Asparagus taliensis, a traditional Chinese medicinal herb with high steroidal saponin content and strong stress tolerance, remains poorly understood. This study investigates the stress response mechanisms of the HMGR gene family in A. taliensis under abiotic stress conditions.

Methods

A comprehensive genome-wide analysis of the HMGR gene family in A. taliensis was conducted. The analysis included chromosomal localization, phylogenetic tree construction, linear analysis, gene structure characterization, motif distribution, cis-acting elements, and protein structure. Candidate AtaHMGR10 gene were overexpressed in Arabidopsis thaliana to analyze phenotypic changes under osmotic and salt stress, including seed germination rate and primary root length. Physiological parameters were also analyzed, and gene expression was validated using qPCR under drought, osmotic, and salt stress conditions.

Results

A total of 18 HMGR gene family members were identified in A. taliensis. The functions and evolution of AtaHMGR genes are conserved. AtaHMGR10 was selected as a promising candidate due to its unique expression profile. Docking analysis revealed that AtaHMGR10 has conserved motifs for binding both HMG-CoA and NADPH/NADH, showing equal affinity for both. Overexpression of AtaHMGR10 in transgenic A. thaliana enhanced tolerance to abiotic stresses, as evidenced by higher germination rates, improved primary root length, increased chlorophyll and proline levels, enhanced peroxidase (POD) and catalase (CAT) activities, and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) content compared to non-transgenic plants under stress conditions.

Discussion

These findings highlight the role of AtaHMGR10 in enhancing plant stress tolerance, particularly in combating drought, osmotic, and salt stress. This understanding of its potential function provides avenues for improving crop resilience to abiotic stress through future gene modification.
Identifying meteorological factors influencing catechin biosynthesis and optimizing cultivation conditions of tea plant (Camellia sinensis)
Authors: Tukhvatshin Marat , Peng Qiliang , Zhao Xuan , Liu Jianghong , Xiang Ping , Lin Jinke
Published: February 2025

Catechins, the most important bioactive components in tea plants (Camellia sinensis), are influenced by the growth environment. To identify and optimize the key meteorological factors affecting catechin accumulation, we investigated the relationship between meteorological factors and tea plant catechin biosynthesis across three growing seasons at 10 locations. Rainfall, average temperature, and effective accumulated temperature (EAT) were identified as key drivers regulating catechin accumulation via the responsive expression of key structural genes CsCHS1, CsANR, and CsSCPL. Optimal meteorological conditions for enhancing total esterified catechins (TEC) and total non-esterified catechins (TNEC) were determined using LINGO software, although the optimal conditions for these two groups were contrasting. Hot and rainy environments promote the biosynthesis of EGCG, ECG, and TEC through CsPAL and CsSCPL, while reduced rainfall and EAT promote the accumulation of C, EGC, and TNEC. This study reveals the differential effects of meteorological factors on catechin accumulation and obtains optimal meteorological conditions for promoting catechin accumulation. These results provide guidance for improving catechin accumulation and tea cultivation management.
The biocontrol agent Streptomyces rimosus subsp. rimosus tempers shifts in the wheat spicosphere microbiome induced by Fusarium Head Blight
Authors: De Troyer Larissa , Audenaert Kris , Ommeslag Sarah , Debode Jane , De Gelder Leen , De Zutter Noémie
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Fusarium Head Blight (FHB) is a major fungal disease in wheat caused by Fusarium graminearum, inducing severe yield losses. Biological control agents (BCAs) can be an effective and sustainable approach to mitigate this phytopathogen. In this study, Streptomyces rimosus subsp. rimosus LMG19352 was used as a BCA to mitigate F. graminearum on wheat ears. Moreover, we aimed to assess the impact of BCA inoculation on non-target microorganisms present on the wheat spikes. Therefore, we evaluated shifts in the fungal and bacterial spicosphere microbiome (i) over time from flowering to mid-grain filling stage and (ii) across inoculations with F. graminearum and/or S. rimosus subsp. rimosus LMG19352.

Methods

FHB symptoms were determined by multispectral imaging, and Illumina MiSeq was used to amplify 16S V3-V4 rDNA for bacteria and ITS2 for fungi, whereafter a correlation network analysis was performed.

Results

The biocontrol potential of S. rimosus subsp. rimosus LMG19352 against F. graminearum was confirmed, as FHB symptoms were significantly reduced. Based on the microbial abundances, S. rimosus subsp. rimosus LMG19352 compensated for shifts in the spicosphere microbiome community induced by FHB. These results were supported by a network analysis, revealing a more complex and stable microbiome in the presence of the BCA compared to the infected control.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this study is the first to reveal the potential of a bacterial BCA to temper shifts in the wheat microbiome caused by a phytopathogen, and thereby acting as a promising BCA.
Sleep disturbance among Chinese survivors of childhood sexual abuse: associations with perceived discrimination and rumination
Authors: Wang Wan , Wang Xi
Published: February 2025

Background

Although childhood sexual abuse (CSA) has been widely recognized for its association with sleep disturbance (SD) in adulthood, little is known about its associations with perceived discrimination (PD) and rumination. This study seeks to build upon existing literature by examining the impact of CSA on adult SD within a Chinese survivor sample while also investigating the mediating effects of PD and rumination on this association.

Methods

A total of 1,210 respondents completed the Childhood Sexual Abuse Questionnaire, the Inventory of Depressive Symptomatology Self Report, the Perceived Discrimination Scale, and the Ruminative Response Scale.

Results

Participants with CSA experiences reported higher scores of SD and greater rates of insomnia and hypersomnia than those without such experiences (47.79% vs. 29.30%; 20.71% vs. 9.46%). CSA, SD, PD, and rumination were positively related with each other. CSA could predict SD not only directly but also indirectly through the mediating effects of PD and rumination.

Limitations

Due to the cross-sectional design, the study is unable to demonstrate causality but, rather, that there exist important associations that are worth further investigation.

Conclusions

This study examined a sample of Chinese survivors of CSA to establish the link between CSA and adult sleep disturbances (SD). Our findings not only confirm this association but also shed light on the intermediary roles of PD and rumination in shaping this relationship. It suggests that interventions designed to mitigate the sense of discrimination and to foster the adoption of positive coping strategies could be instrumental in enhancing the sleep quality of those who have been sexually abused in their childhood.
International perspectives on physician knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to medical cannabis
Authors: Syed Shariful A. , Singh Jatinder , Elkholy Hussien , Rojnić Palavra Irena , Tomicevic Marko , Eric Anamarija Petek , Pinto da Costa Mariana , Guloksuz Sinan , Radhakrishnan Rajiv
Published: February 2025

Background

The trends of recreational use of cannabis and the use of cannabis for medical indications (i.e., “medical cannabis”) have grown in recent years. Despite that, there is still limited scientific evidence to guide clinical decision-making, and the strength of evidence for the medical use of cannabis is currently considered to be low. In contrast, there is growing evidence of negative health outcomes related to the use of cannabis. In this rapidly shifting landscape, the role of physician attitudes regarding the therapeutic value of cannabis has become essential. This study aimed to characterize knowledge/experience, attitudes, and potential predictors of clinical practice regarding medical cannabis.

Methods

We conducted a cross-sectional survey of physicians from 17 countries between 2016 and 2018. The survey consisted of questions designed to explore physician knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the use of medical cannabis. Descriptive statistics were used to examine willingness to recommend medical cannabis for medical and psychiatric indications, followed by regression analysis to identify the predictors of physician willingness to recommend medical cannabis.

Results

A total of 323 physicians responded to the survey, among which 53% were women. The mean age was 35.4 ± 9.5 years, with 10.04 ± 8.6 years of clinical experience. Clinical experience with medical cannabis was overall limited (51.4% noted never having recommended medical cannabis and 33% noted inadequate knowledge regarding medical cannabis). The majority of respondents (84%) recognized the risk of psychosis with cannabis use, while only 23% correctly identified the risk of addiction with daily cannabis use. Overall, willingness to recommend medical cannabis was the highest for chemotherapy-induced nausea (67%), refractory chronic neuropathic pain (52%), and spasticity in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS; 51%).

Conclusion

This international study examining physician knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to medical cannabis revealed that there are significant gaps in domain-specific knowledge related to medical cannabis. There is a wide variability in willingness to recommend medical cannabis, which is not consistent with the current strength of evidence. This study thus highlights the need for greater education related to domain-specific knowledge about medical cannabis.
A comparison of floating catchment area parameters with applications to a dataset of clinics enrolled in a statewide child and adolescent psychiatric consultation program
Authors: Hunyadi Jocelyn , Savas Lara S. , Zhang Kehe , Deason Jeanette E. , Ramphul Ryan , Peskin Melissa F. , Frost Erica L. , Bauer Cici
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Healthcare resources are often crucial but limited, requiring careful consideration and informed allocation based on population needs and potential healthcare access. In resource allocation settings, availability and accessibility of resources should be examined simultaneously. The two-step floating catchment area (2SFCA) method has been previously used to evaluate spatial accessibility to healthcare resources and services, and to address health-related disparities. The 2SFCA methods have regained significant popularity during the COVID-19 pandemic, as their application proved crucial in addressing priority public health data analysis, modeling, and accessibility challenges. However, comprehensive comparisons of the 2SFCA method input parameters in the context of public health concerns in Texas are lacking. Our study aims to (a) perform a comparative analysis of 2SFCA input parameters on patterns of spatial accessibility and (b) identify a 2SFCA method to guide evaluation of equitable allocation of scarce mental health resources for children and adolescents in Texas.

Methods

We used the Texas Child Psychiatry Access Network (CPAN) data to assess county-level, regional patterns in access to pediatric psychiatric care, and to identify areas to expand CPAN to mitigate access-related disparities. Using the 2SFCA method, we further compared accessibility patterns across two kernel density distance decay functions for 10 catchment area specifications.

Results

As expected, spatial accessibility measures, such as the spatial accessibility ratio (SPAR), are sensitive to input parameters, particularly the catchment area. However, across all catchment area thresholds, two clusters of counties in southern and central Texas had particularly low accessibility, highlighting the opportunity for expanding the provider network in these areas.

Discussion

Identifying areas with low accessibility can help public health initiatives prioritize regions in need of improved services and resources. The incorporation of additional data on supply capacity and care-seeking behavior would aid in the refinement of estimates for spatial accessibility at the regional level and within larger urban centers.
Dental service for United Nations peacekeepers coping with COVID-19 in Bukavu: preparation, implementation and recommendation
Authors: Lu Shuai , Miao Li , He Yong , Luo Jia-Ning , Lin Lu , Liu Zhi-Hua , Yan Bi-Yu , Wu Jia-Ling , Xie Yang , Yang Shu-Yong , Wang Chao
Published: February 2025

Background

The Chinese level 2 hospital (CHH L2) deployed in Bukavu provides medical supports to peacekeepers in MONUSCO. This study aimed to statistically analyze the types of oral and maxillofacial problems and corresponding treatments provided from October 2018 to September 2022, and to describe the trends of dental service pre and post COVID-19 outbreak.

Methods

The medical records of all patients visited to the CHN L2 during the 48 months were collected and were accessed for the research purposes between October 2018 and September 2022. Dental visitors were counted and identified with nationality and occupations. Dental service was categorized as emergency, routine and evacuation. Diagnosis and treatments provided were statistically analyzed.

Results

952/3,913 (24.33%) of the visitors to CHN L2 during this period were referred to dentistry, including 50 females (5.25%) and 902 males (94.75%). The proportion of UN military personnel is 91.39% (870/952). A total of 1,116 teeth and mucosa problems were treated. Dental emergencies represented 13.98% percent (156/1, 116). 2,180 dental treatments (2.29 procedures per patient) were provided: dental radiographs taken (618, 28.30%), local anesthesia (448, 20.55%), RCT (373, 15.14%), resin composite filling (330, 15.14%), extraction (248, 11.38%) and other treatments (164, 7.52%). The number of monthly visitors was significantly affected by the COVID-19 epidemic (p < 0.05), pre-COVID-19 (total 151 ± 51, dental 33 ± 13) and post-COVID-19 (total 51 ± 21, dental 13 ± 8), the lowest number was in July 2020, 6 months after the COVID-19 outbreak (total 16 and dental 3).

Conclusions

Dentistry is the most frequently visited department in the CHH L2 in Bukavu, and the number of visitors were affected by the COVID-19 epidemic. Treatments related to dental caries, pulpitis, apical periodontitis, and wisdom teeth problems account for the majority of dental service. The variety and severity of dental problems demonstrate the urgent need for training in multiple specialized skills for deployed military dental personnel.
Menstrual hygiene practice and associated factors among adolescent primary school females in Dale Woreda, Sidama, Ethiopia: a cross sectional study
Authors: Ayele Amanuel , G/Mariam Meskerem , Beyene Hunachew , Tolcha Alemu , Tediso Dansamo , Shalamo Teshale , Belayneh Teshale
Published: February 2025

Background

Despite poor menstrual hygiene practices exposing adolescent females to reproductive health problems, it has not been adequately studied in low-income countries. Due to a lack of proper information, the majority of teenage girls enter puberty without having prepared themselves. The aim of this study was to assess menstrual hygiene practice and associated factors among adolescent female students.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study design was employed from March 10 to April 20, 2022. A random sample of 608 adolescent female students was included in the study. A multistage sampling was applied to employee study participants. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered through an interview technique. A logistic regression model was used to analyze the data using version 26 SPSS statistical software. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. An adjusted odds ratio with a 95% confidence interval and a corresponding p-value <0.05 was used to measure the strength of association.

Result

The prevalence of poor menstrual hygiene practices among adolescent girls was 28.4%. Poor knowledge of adolescent girls [AOR = 2.64, 95% CI: 1.74, 4.02], mothers' educational level [AOR = 0.86, 95% CI: 0.79, 0.94], fathers' occupation of private employers and daily laborers [AOR = 3.1, 95% CI: 1.46, 6.69] and [AOR = 1.98, 95% CI: 1.03, 3.8], and having hand washing facilities [AOR = 0.51, 95% CI: 0.34, 0.77] were significantly associated with poor menstrual hygiene management practices among adolescent schoolgirls.

Conclusion

In this study, we determined the level of poor menstrual hygiene practice. We identified factors significantly associated with menstrual hygiene practices. Interventions should focus on creating awareness among adolescent girls, providing menstrual hygiene management facilities, and improving the educational and occupational levels of parents.
Novel ultrastructural features of the nucleus of the ancestral dinoflagellate Oxyrrhis marina as revealed by freeze substitution fixation and volume electron microscopy
Authors: Fukuda Yasuhiro , Suzaki Toshinobu , Murata Kazuyoshi , Song Chihong
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Oxyrrhis marina is thought to have diverged from other dinoflagellates at an early stage of their evolution and is considered to show their ancestral form. As for other current dinoflagellates, the species possesses condensed chromosomes throughout the cell cycle but shows some important differences. The chromosomes of O. marina are thinner and longer than those of other dinoflagellate species and do not show the repeating arch-shaped liquid-crystal structure that is found in core dinoflagellates. These morphological features were described originally about half a century ago from cells fixed using conventional chemical methods, which are prone to producing morphological artifacts. Therefore, it is crucial to reevaluate ultrastructural features using cells fixed by other methods.

Method

In this study, O. marina was fixed with freeze-substitution, a method that is less prone to artifacts in electron microscopy, in addition to conventional chemical fixation, and the details of chromosome structure were reexamined using volume electron microscopy.

Results

In the four cells observed, the number of chromosomes was consistently nearly 400. The nucleus of O. marina has a single nucleolus at its center, to which, as in other dinoflagellates, multiple chromosomes are attached. Several nucleofilaments were observed penetrating the nucleolus. On the other hand, filamentous structures have been observed in chemically fixed chromosomes, but no such structures were observed in cells fixed by freeze-substitution. Tomographic analysis using volume electron microscopy confirmed the absence of these structural features.

Discussion

The number of chromosomes of O. marina was previously considered to be approximately 50, but this is only one-eighth of the number found in the present study (400). It is concluded that the chromosomes of O. marina are composed of tightly condensed and densely folded nucleofilaments, which are difficult to distinguish. This study revealed novel ultrastructural features in the chromosome of O. marina. These findings will help consider the evolutionary scenario through which the enigmatic dinoflagellate nucleus (dinokaryon) was established. In addition, this study indicated freeze-substitution fixation and volume electron microscopy would become a critical technique in elucidating the dinokaryon chromosome structure.
Sensory sustainable homes, a study of the healthy happy home (3H) conceptual design model: an explanatory qualitative study
Authors: Ekhaese Eghosa , Hussain Waqar , Ndimako Onyedikachukwu O. , Hussain Kifayat , Owoseni Abraham
Published: February 2025

Sustainable homes support ecological, human, and economic health and vitality. Sensory sustainable homes (SSH) contextually mean creating a dwelling that integrates the concept ideas of the healthy elements, happiness determinants, and home requirements (3H) concept. The study resolved the investigator's question. What is the 3H conceptual design model? The study aims to investigate SSH design that integrates the 3H requirements into the conceptual model to enhance the occupants' quality of life (QoL). The article assessed expert opinions from relevant health and environmental professionals to identify the health elements in an SSH, identify the happiness determinants in SSH, and develop a conceptual framework that encapsulates the 3H design concept. The research employed a qualitative, exploratory-descriptive and contextual technique that leveraged phenomenological and ground theory approaches to create a new theory. A case study was the research design. The data was from 61 experts from the built environment and health professionals. The investigators identified 16 professions for the study. The researchers were the main research instrument in this study. Data collection instruments are an observation schedule, Focus Group Discussion (FGD), and an In-depth semi-structured Interview (IDI) guide to gather expert information to validate the 3H conceptual framework and SSH design checklist. The paradigm is post-positivism and interpretivism. Applying Maslow's hierarchy of needs and Sigmund Freud's pleasure principle, findings showed that architectural elements integrate occupants' health needs and pleasures into the home. It boosts happiness—a sense of aesthetics, security, belongingness, community, comfort, and peace. The 3H conceptual or SSH design results reveal that the architectural elements of a healthy home enhance happiness. Therefore, incorporating human needs and principles into a home can make the 3H design concept practical and hands-on.
The possible application of virtual reality for managing anxiety in athletes
Authors: Trpkovici Melinda , Makai Alexandra , Prémusz Viktória , Ács Pongrác
Published: February 2025

Introduction

One of the most effective techniques is “stress inoculation” training (SIT), which is increasingly utilized to reduce anxiety and enhance athletic performance. The aim of our research was to investigate the extent to which the stress situation we created in virtual reality evokes psychological responses in athletes, compared to the responses they experience during a competitive match.

Methods

The sample consisted of 24 female athletes with an average age of 18.71 ± 5.42 years. Of these, 9 were elite basketball players, 8 were table tennis players, and 7 were handball players. All participants completed the Athlete Anxiety Questionnaire, designed to measure anxiety in high-stakes situations and assess levels of concentration and self-confidence during matches. Additionally, within the virtual reality environment we created, athletes were exposed to stress-inducing factors scientifically proven to elicit stress responses. Paired-sample t-tests were used to examine differences between measurements (match and virtual reality scenario), and ANOVA tests were used to compare differences between athletes groups (basketball players, table tennis players and handball players).

Results

Our findings indicated that the sports stress scenario simulated in virtual reality triggers stress responses in athletes comparable to those experienced during actual competitive matches. No significant difference was detected in any factor between the total scores of the tests completed after the virtual reality session and those completed after the match (p > 0.05). The greatest impact of VR on cognitive anxiety was observed regarding the fear of mental block or choking during a match, received an average score higher than that of the match (1.75 ± 1.032 vs. 1.38 ± 0.711 respectively, p = 0.04)

Conclusion

Based on these results, we can conclude that the sports stress scenario generated by virtual reality can indeed induce a comparable level of stress in athletes compared to actual matches. Therefore, virtual reality technology shows promise as a tool for enhancing athletes' stress management skills and could be a significant asset in sports psychology preparation processes.
Relative age effects in European soccer: their association with contextual factors, impact on youth national teams' performance, and presence at the senior level
Authors: Morganti Gabriele , Kelly Adam L. , Lascu Alexandra , Brustio Paolo R. , Padua Elvira , Filetti Cristoforo , Porta Marco , Briotti Gianluca , Ruscello Bruno
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Soccer systems promote early identification and specialisation practices to satisfy short- and long-term goals—both from sporting performance and financial gains perspectives. In this context, players are (de)selected based on observed performance level and on their ability to conform to given organisational demands, leading to the proliferation of selection biases, such as relative age effects (RAEs), which research has shown to influence both developmental experiences and senior career achievements. Accordingly, this study aims to: (a) investigate the magnitude of RAEs among youth national teams competing in the UEFA U17 European Soccer Championship, and their associations with teams' final ranking, (b) examine whether RAEs magnitude could be linked to cultural and contextual factors, and (c) further explore RAEs at senior level.

Methods

Birth quarter (BQ) distribution of youth national teams (n = 80) that competed in one of the five editions (2018, 2019, 2022, 2023, and 2024) of the UEFA U17 European Soccer Championship was recorded. Teams were classified based on their country of origin, RAEs magnitudes, final ranking in the tournament, FIFA points, and national population. Furthermore, the BQ distribution of senior national teams (n = 24) that competed at the 2024 UEFA Senior European Soccer Championship was recorded.

Results

Chi-square statistics revealed BQ1s were overrepresented at the U17 level (p < 0.001) and showed teams exhibiting low RAEs magnitudes recorded the highest likelihood (odds ratio: 5.67) of finishing the tournament in the bottom four positions. Correlation analyses recorded small to moderate positive correlations between RAEs magnitude and national population (.25) and FIFA points (.33). Further chi-square statistics revealed BQ1s continued to be overrepresented at the senior level, albeit with a weaker effect (p < 0.001). However, when the senior BQ distribution was compared to the expected distribution taken from the U17 population, this recorded more BQ4s and fewer BQ1s than expected (p < 0.001).

Discussion

The findings presented the focus on youth success, the increased talent pool size, and the competition for selection interact to reiterate RAEs' prevalence in European soccer. Moreover, they highlighted initial RAEs define players' journey within the soccer system, whereby relatively older players remain overrepresented at the senior level, albeit to a weaker and lesser extent.
Neuroanatomy of spinal nociception and pain in dogs and cats: a practical review for the veterinary clinician
Authors: Pedersen Tenna Remler , Berendt Mette , Rusbridge Clare
Published: February 2025

Chronic pain is a prevalent condition in companion animals and poses significant welfare challenges. To address these concerns effectively, veterinary clinicians must have a comprehensive understanding of the neuroanatomy of nociception and the intricate processes underlying pain perception. This knowledge is essential for planning and implementing targeted treatment strategies. However, much of the existing information on pain mechanisms is derived from studies on rodents or humans, highlighting the need for further translational research to bridge this gap for veterinary applications. This review aims to provide veterinary clinicians with an in-depth overview of the spinal nociceptive pathways in the dog and cat, tracing the journey from nociceptor activation to cortical processing in the brain. Additionally, the review explores factors influencing nociceptive signaling and pain perception. By enhancing the understanding of these fundamental physiological processes, this work seeks to lay the groundwork for developing effective therapies to manage the complexities of chronic pain in companion animals.
Using Optimization Algorithms for Effective Missing-Data Imputation: A Case Study of Tabular Data Derived from Video Surveillance
Authors: Eid Mahmoud M. , ElDahshan Kamal , Abouali Abdelatif H. , Tharwat Alaa
Published: February 2025

Data are crucial components of machine learning and deep learning in real-world applications. However, when collecting data from actual systems, we often encounter issues with missing information, which can harm accuracy and lead to biased results. In the context of video surveillance, missing data may arise due to obstructions, varying camera angles, or technical issues, resulting in incomplete information about the observed scene. This paper introduces a method for handling missing data in tabular formats, specifically focusing on video surveillance. The core idea is to fill in the missing values for a specific feature using values from other related features rather than relying on all available features, which we refer to as the imputation approach based on informative features. The paper presents three sets of experiments. The first set uses synthetic datasets to compare four optimization algorithms—Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO), Grey Wolf Optimization (GWO), Whale Optimization Algorithm (WOA), and the Sine–Cosine Algorithm (SCA)—to determine which one best identifies features related to the target feature. The second set works with real-world datasets, while the third focuses on video-surveillance datasets. Each experiment compares the proposed method, utilizing the best optimizer from the first set, against leading imputation methods. The experiments evaluate different types of data and various missing-data rates, ensuring that randomness does not introduce bias. In the first experiment, using only synthetic data, the results indicate that the WOA-based approach outperforms PSO, GWO, and SCA optimization algorithms. The second experiment used real datasets, while the third used tabular data extracted from a video-surveillance system. Both experiments show that our WOA-based imputation method produces promising results, outperforming other state-of-the-art imputation methods.
Regenerative Structural Fatigue Testing with Digital Displacement Pump/Motors
Authors: Rampen Win , Munko Marek J. , Dubon Sergio Lopez , Cuthill Fergus
Published: February 2025

Historically, a large fraction of fatigue testing of both components and structures has been performed using hydraulic actuators. These are typically driven by servo-valves, which are in themselves very inefficient. But, as most tests involve elastically stressing mechanical components, a lot of stored energy could be recovered. Unfortunately, servo-valves are not regenerative—simply metering out fluid in order to relax the system prior to the start of the next cycle. There is much to be gained with a more intelligently controlled system. The FastBlade facility in Scotland uses a new type of regenerative test hydraulics. Digital displacement pump/motors (DDPMs), originated by Artemis Intelligent Power, now Danfoss Scotland, are used to load and unload the test structure directly via hydraulic rams. The DDPMs are driven by induction motors supplied by three-phase frequency converters, each with a very loose speed correction target, such that they can speed up or slow down according to the instantaneous torque exerted by the load. The rotating assembly of the induction motor and DDPM is designed to have sufficient inertia so as to function as a kinetic energy storage flywheel. The loading energy is then cyclically transferred between the rotating inertia of the motor/DDPM and the spring energy in the test structure. The electric motor provides sufficient energy to maintain the target average cyclical shaft speed of the DDPM whilst the bulk of the system energy oscillates between the two storage mechanisms. Initial tests (at low load) suggest that this technique requires only 30% of the energy previously needed. FastBlade is a unique facility built by the University of Edinburgh and Babcock, with support from the UK EPSRC, conceived as a means of testing and certifying turbine blades for marine current turbines. However, this approach can be used in any cyclical application where elastic energy is stored.
A Distributed Cooperative Guidance Law with Prescribed-Time Consensus Performance
Authors: Ou Chao , Shen Ao , Cheng Zhongtao , Long Yaosong
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes a prescribed-time convergent distributed cooperative guidance law that enables aircraft to reach the same location in a cooperative manner in both undirected and directed communication topologies. First, the heading error angle is designed to derive the analytical expression of the flight time. Then, the guidance law is incorporated as a bias term into the heading error angle to ensure that the remaining flight time error converges to zero within the prescribed time so as to realize the cooperative arrival of the aircraft at the same location. Finally, numerical simulations were conducted to verify the effectiveness of the proposed algorithm under both communication topologies.
Assessing the Impact of Climate Change on Winter Wheat Production in the North China Plain from 1980 to 2020
Authors: Zheng Jinhui , Zhang Shuai
Published: February 2025

As a highly variable factor, climate plays a crucial role in winter wheat production. Quantifying its impact on crop yield and determining its relative importance is essential. This study uses the Random Forest (RF) algorithm to evaluate the effects of climate change on winter wheat yields in the North China Plain (1980–2020) and assess yield sensitivity to various climate indicators. The results show that the RF model performs well in simulating winter wheat yields across planting regions, with RRMSE values ranging from 12.88% to 22.06%, Spearman’s r from 0.84 to 0.91, and R2 from 0.69 to 0.83. From 1980 to 2020, climate trends negatively affected winter wheat yields in Beijing, Tianjin, Hebei, Shanxi, and Jiangsu while promoting yield increases in Henan and Anhui. In general, a 10% increase in precipitation tends to enhance yields, except in northern Hebei, northern Shanxi, and Jiangsu. A 10% rise in solar radiation benefits most regions, although it leads to yield reductions in some areas of Anhui and Jiangsu. A 1 °C increase in temperature typically results in yield decreases, except in Beijing, southern Hebei, and parts of Shanxi and Henan. Among the three predictors, temperature is the most influential (33.81–44.19%), followed by solar radiation (29.01–37.47%) and precipitation (23.27–30.88%). These findings highlight the need for temperature-focused management strategies and region-specific approaches to optimize wheat yields and ensure sustainable production under climate change.
Evapotranspiration Partitioning for Croplands Based on Eddy Covariance Measurements and Machine Learning Models
Authors: Zhang Jie , Yang Shanshan , Wang Jingwen , Zeng Ruiyun , Zhang Sha , Bai Yun , Zhang Jiahua
Published: February 2025

Accurately partitioning evapotranspiration (ET) of cropland into productive plant transpiration (T) and non-productive soil evaporation (E) is important for improving crop water use efficiency. Many methods, including machine learning methods, have been developed for ET partitioning. However, the applicability of machine learning models in cropland ET partitioning with diverse crop rotations is not clear. In this study, machine learning models are used to predict E, and T is obtained by calculating the difference between ET and E, leading to the derivation of the ratio of transpiration to evapotranspiration (T/ET). We evaluated six machine learning models (i.e., artificial neural networks (ANN), extremely randomized trees (ExtraTrees), gradient boosting decision tree (GBDT), light gradient boosting machine (LightGBM), random forest (RF), and extreme gradient boosting (XGBoost)) on partitioning ET at 16 cropland flux sites during the period from 2000 to 2020. The evaluation results showed that the XGBoost model had the best performance (R = 0.88, RMSE = 6.87 W/m2, NSE = 0.77, and MAE = 3.41 W/m2) when considering the meteorological data, ecosystem sensible heat flux, ecosystem respiration, soil water content, and remote sensing vegetation indices as input variables. Due to the unavailability of observed E or T data at the 16 cropland sites, we used three other widely used ET partitioning methods to indirectly validate the accuracy of our ET partitioning results based on XGBoost. The results showed that our T estimation results were highly consistent with their T estimation results (R = 0.83–0.91). Moreover, based on the XGBoost model and the three other ET partitioning methods, we estimated the ratio of transpiration to evapotranspiration (T/ET) for different crops. On average, maize had the highest T/ET of 0.619 ± 0.119, followed by soybean (0.618 ± 0.085), winter wheat (0.614 ± 0.08), and sugar beet (0.611 ± 0.065). Lower T/ET was found for paddy rice (0.505 ± 0.055), winter barley (0.590 ± 0.058), potato (0.540 ± 0.088), and rapeseed (0.522 ± 0.107). These results suggest the machine learning models are easy and applicable for cropland T/ET estimation with different crop rotations and reveal obvious differences in water use among different crops, which is crucial for the sustainability of water resources and improvements in cropland water use efficiency.
Endangered Przewalski’s Horse, Equus przewalskii, Cloned from Historically Cryopreserved Cells
Authors: Novak Ben J. , Ryder Oliver A. , Houck Marlys L. , Walker Kelcey , Russell Lexie , Russell Blake , Walker Shawn , Arenivas Sanaz Sadeghieh , Aston Lauren , Veneklasen Gregg , Ivy Jamie A. , Koepfli Klaus-Peter , Rusnak Anna , Simek Jaroslav , Zhuk Anna , Putnam Andrea S. , Phelan Ryan
Published: February 2025

Cloning from historically cryopreserved cells offers a potential means to restore lost genetic variation or increase the representation of particular lineages within bottlenecked species, provided such biobanked materials are archived for such genetic rescue applications. One species for which cloning can provide genetic management benefits is Przewalski’s horse, Equus przewalskii. All ~1800 living Przewalski’s horses, distributed across ex situ breeding facilities and in situ reintroduction sites, are descended from one or more of the five founder lineages established by the 12 horses captured from the wild between 1898 and 1947. Since the 1970s, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Biodiversity Bank’s Frozen Zoo® (Escondido, CA, USA) has biobanked cells or tissues of 575 individuals spanning many generations. A pedigree analysis of a subset of deceased individuals represented in the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance Biodiversity Bank’s Frozen Zoo® revealed an underrepresented male that lived from 1975 to 1998, Studbook Number 615 (also known as Kuporovitch), who would be of high value for breeding if cloned. Here, we report that two healthy clones were produced from this cell line using cross-species somatic cell nuclear transfer from 2020 to 2023. Their identification as clones was verified by a standard horse-pedigree genotyping panel, and, for one clone, a whole genome sequencing comparison to the original donor was performed. This is the first time that multiple healthy clones surviving the perinatal period have been produced for an endangered species.