bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Standardised activities in wheelchair rugby, comparison between athletes with coordination impairment and athletes with other impairments
Authors: Altmann Viola C. , Janssen Mariska , de Wit Johanna L. J. , van der Slikke Rienk M. A.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

To determine if athletes with coordination impairment (CI) can continue playing wheelchair rugby (WR), while an evidence-based classification system, including impairment tests for CI is not yet available. This is a defensible practise if they show similar activity limitations as athletes with other eligible impairment types (OI) within the same sports class.

Methods

Standardised activities were measured in 58 elite WR athletes; 14 with CI and 44 with OI. Wheelchair activities consisted of 20-meter sprint, 12-meter sprint with full stop, intermittent sprint (3-meter sprint, stop, 3-meter sprint, stop, 6-meter sprint with full stop), sprint-curve-slalom-curve, turn on the spot 180°, turn on the spot 90°, stop, turn 90°in the same direction, X-test (short circuit with sharp turns) without the ball. Ball activities consisted of maximal throwing distance, precision throwing short (25% of maximum throw) and long (75% of maximal throw) distance and X-test with the ball (pick-up the ball and dribble whilst pushing). Descriptive statistics were used and Spearman’s Rank correlation was assessed for athletes with CI and OI for each outcome measure. Differences between athletes with CI and OI were assessed using a Mann-Whitney U test.

Results

Most activities showed a high correlation with the athlete class in both athletes with CI and athletes with OI. Furthermore, outcome measures of athletes with CI overlapped with athletes with OI in the same sports class for all activities. There was a trend for worse performance in athletes with CI in turn on the spot 90°, stop, turn 90°in the same direction, the short distance one handed precision throw (P 0.11)and in the X-test with the ball (P 0.10).

Discussion

Despite the current lack of evidence based impairment tests for CI, it is a defensible practise to not exclude athletes with CI from WR with the current classification system. The trends for differences in performance that were found can support athletes and coaches in optimising performance of athletes with CI.
Integrating green manure and fertilizer reduction strategies to enhance soil carbon sequestration and crop yield: evidence from a two-season pot experiment
Authors: Zhang Jun , He Wei , Wei Zheng , Chen Yifei , Gao Weichun
Published: January 2025

The excessive use of chemical fertilizers in agricultural production has led to diminishing returns, necessitating alternative methods to enhance soil fertility and reduce fertilizer dependency. One promising approach is the integration of leguminous green manure, which improves soil structure, enhances nutrient cycling, and supports sustainable farming practices. However, the application of green manure in systems with continuous fertilizer reduction remains underexplored. This study addresses this gap by investigating the effects of reducing nitrogen and phosphorus fertilizers (N-P) by up to 24% in conjunction with multiple cropping of soybean green manure on soil fertility, organic carbon fractions, and wheat yield. The research employed a pot experiment conducted over two wheat-growing seasons (March 2021 to July 2022) at an experimental station in Baoji, China. Treatments included CK (control, no fertilizer), CF (conventional fertilizer), and reduced N-P fertilizer applications by 6% (RF6), 12% (RF12), 18% (RF18), and 24% (RF24). Key findings revealed that RF12 had no significant impact on wheat grain yield compared to CF. The incorporation of soybean green manure significantly improved soil alkaline nitrogen by 22.3% and available phosphorus by 30.7%, while high-labile organic carbon (H-LOC) and microbial biomass carbon (MBC) increased by 34.5 and 29.6%, respectively. Additionally, a notable increase of 12.4% in soil organic carbon content was observed, suggesting enhanced carbon sequestration potential. This study provides valuable insights into sustainable agricultural practices by demonstrating that incorporating leguminous green manure alongside moderate fertilizer reduction can maintain crop yield, improve soil nutrient availability, and increase organic carbon content, thus supporting reduced reliance on chemical fertilizers and promoting long-term soil fertility and carbon sequestration.
Impact of digital village development on farmers’ human settlement environment improvement behaviors
Authors: Zhao Guodong , Sun Hongwu
Published: January 2025

Introduction

As digital village construction advances, digital technologies are gradually permeating various aspects of rural life, providing a new avenue for improving rural human settlement environment (RHSE).

Methods

We matched the 2020 and 2021 data from the China Land Economic Survey (CLES) with the County Digital Rural Index (CDRI), exploring how digital village development (DVD) influences farmers’ human settlement environment improvement behaviors (HSEIBs).

Results and discussion

Research findings indicate that DVD has significantly increased farmers’ probability of disposing of domestic wastewater scientifically and adopting sanitation toilets, with robustness checks conducted. Further analysis reveals that this positive impact is primarily realized through effects of enriching villages, enriching villagers and social interaction. The analysis of heterogeneity reveals that in households with a higher proportion of seniors, DVD significantly raises the usage of sanitation toilets but does not significantly promote the scientific treatment of domestic wastewater. Additionally, when we subdivide DVD into different dimensions, we find that the digitalization of rural infrastructure, rural economy, rural life and rural governance can effectively facilitate farmers’ HSEIBs, but the digitalization of rural governance has the least impact. Our findings not only enrich the field of digital well-being research but also shed light on the digital divide problem in rural China.
Coexistent anemia modulates systemic inflammation and exacerbates disease severity and adverse treatment outcomes in tuberculosis
Authors: Dasan Bindu , Munisankar Saravanan , Pavan Kumar Nathella , Moideen Kadar , Pandiarajan Arul Nancy , Nott Sujatha , Viswanathan Vijay , Shanmugam Sivakumar , Hissar Syed , Thiruvengadam Kannan , Kornfeld Hardy , Babu Subash
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Anemia has been shown to be an independent predictor of disease progression and death in tuberculosis (TB) patients, significantly impacting TB in several ways. This dual burden poses significant challenges for TB control efforts. However, the mechanism by which anemia influences disease severity, bacterial burden, and TB treatment outcomes remains poorly understood.

Methods

In this study, we aimed to compare bacterial burdens, disease severity, and TB treatment outcomes in TB patients with or without anemia. Participants were recruited from Chennai, South India, as part of the prospective Effect of Diabetes on Tuberculosis Severity (EDOTS) study conducted from February 2014 to August 2018. Anemia was defined as hemoglobin (Hb) levels <13 g/dL and <12 g/dL for males and females, respectively. We employed chest X-rays to assess bilateral lung and cavitary diseases and sputum smear grades to measure bacterial loads in TB subjects. Treatment outcomes were defined as favorable or unfavorable. Cytokine profile was measured using multiplex ELISA.

Results

The study comprised of 483 culture-confirmed TB individuals, with 288 positives for anemia {Median Hb was 11.0 [interquartile range (IQR)], 10.3–12.3} and 195 negatives [Median Hb was 14.3 (IQR), 13.5–15.2]. The study revealed that TB patients with anemia had significantly higher bacterial loads [adjusted prevalence ratio (aPR), 4.01; 95% CI, 2.22–6.63; p < 0.001], cavitary lung lesions [aPR, 3.36; 95% CI, 1.95–5.68; p < 0.001] and unfavorable treatment outcomes [aPR, 1.61; 95% CI, 1.31–2.19; p = 0.046] compared to those without anemia. Our data also show that TB is associated with significantly lower levels of type-1 cytokines (IFNγ and IL-2) but significantly higher levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IFNα, and IFNβ) and pro-fibrotic factors (VEGF, EGF, FGF-2, and PDGF-AB/BB) in anemic individuals compared to those without anemia.

Conclusions

These findings highlight a clear association between anemia and increased TB severity, elevated bacterial loads, and poor treatment outcomes. Our data also suggest that anemia might be associated with the modulation of cytokine responses, which could impart a detrimental effect on TB pathogenesis.
Comprehensive analysis of the cerebellar vasculature of dromedary camels (Camelus dromedarius)
Authors: Al Aiyan Ahmad , Balan Rinsha
Published: January 2025

The current study performed a comprehensive assessment of blood supply in the cerebellum of dromedary camels. To the best of our knowledge, this study is the first to provide detailed information about the origins, routes, and complicated patterns of branching in the rostral and caudal cerebellar arteries of dromedary camels. In total, 55 heads from male dromedary camels aged 2–6 years were analyzed using advanced casting techniques. Based on the specific challenges of this study, arterial structures were accurately evaluated using these strategic techniques. Rostral and caudal cerebellar arteries and branches of the basilar artery gave rise to multiple cortical branches categorized as hemispheric (lateral, middle, and medial) and vermian (paramedian and median) branches, which supply blood to the cerebellum. This novel anatomical knowledge can significantly improve our understanding about the neurovascular system of dromedary camels, thereby holding potential implications for veterinary diagnostics, treatment of neurological disorders, and comparative neuroanatomy research.
Specyfika nauczania dialektologii na polonistyce w Iwano-Frankiwsku w perspektywie glottodydaktycznej
Authors: Lazarovych Olha
Published: January 2025

The article discusses the specificity of teaching Polish dialectology and dialectology terms in the context of teaching students of Polish Studies at the Vasyl Stefanyk Precarpathian National University in Ivano-Frankivsk. This knowledge is expected to help students understand the linguistic diversity in Poland, and prepare them to teach the language in different contexts. It is also intended to boost their understanding of dialectal differences in the Polish language, which may be relevant to linguistic, literary, and cultural studies. A course in Polish dialectology should help the students realise that there are other systems of communication than the literary language, to convince them that dialect is not an inferior system of communication, but simply a different one. Studying dialectology also facilitates the understanding of developmental processes that have taken place over the history of Polish, and those that are taking place in the contemporary language.
Technologia deepfake w kampanii parlamentarnej w Polsce w 2023 roku
Authors: Dąbrowska Ilona
Published: January 2025

The subject of this text is the issue of the use of deepfake technology during the parliamentary campaign in Poland in 2023. The aim of the article is to present the ways of using deepfake technology during the ongoing campaign, as well as to try to answer the question about the purposefulness and effectiveness of these activities. Initial key findings allow us to conclude that several deepfakes appeared in the virtual space, which were created for satirical, disinformation and depreciatory purposes. However, due to quick actions, among others, journalists and specialists in the field of fake news, the disinformation potential of such messages was minimized.
Stabilność systemu wyborczego jako wartość konstytucyjna (prolegomena)
Authors: Słomka Tomasz
Published: January 2025

The article is an introduction to research on the stability of the electoral system in Poland. There is a hipotesis that the Polish constitution indicates the stability of the electoral system as an expected solution in a democratic state of law. The constitution shows this through many constitutional rules as constitutionalism and legalism. The constitution also contains many detailed regulations regarding elections.
Design and Evaluation of a Leader–Follower Isomorphic Vascular Interventional Surgical Robot
Authors: Chen Pengfei , Wang Yutang , Tian Dapeng
Published: January 2025

Vascular interventional surgical robots (VISRs) can help doctors to avoid X-ray radiation. This paper proposes a leader–follower isomorphic robot where the structural form and operational logic are completely identical. The doctor’s operation on the leader robot is precisely replicated on the follower robot, enabling delivery and rotation capabilities. It can further achieve collaborative operation. This control system adopts a four-channel scheme based on acceleration and can achieve approximately ideal transparency. The leader–follower delivery error of the catheter/guidewire is less than 1 mm, and the leader–follower rotation error of the guidewire is less than 0.3° in an actual intervention task based on a human vascular model. Subsequently, the cumulative sum (CUSUM) method was used to evaluate the learning curve of the robot system, demonstrating that both operators could master the operation method within 10 trials. We classified operators with different operational experience using machine learning methods. The classification process includes time-frequency domain feature extraction, feature selection based on the Relief method and random forest (RF) method, and a BP neural network (NN) classifier. The results indicate that this method can achieve accuracy of 94%. This paper comprehensively discusses the robot system from the perspectives of the mechanism design, control methods, and evaluation methods, providing valuable insights for the design of related robotic systems.
Biotechnological Approach for Development and Characterization of Protein Feed for Melipona quadrifasciata
Authors: Miranda-Pinto Patrícia , Soares Jullio Kennedy Castro , Gonzalez Irys Hany Lima , Diogo Yuri Ribeiro , de Medeiros Lívia Soman , Caperuto Luciana Chagas , Ramos Patrícia Locosque , Francoy Tiago Maurício , Morais Michelle Manfrini
Published: January 2025

Stingless bees are vital pollinators in tropical and neotropical regions, emphasizing the need to conserve these species. However, resource scarcity, particularly pollen, during certain periods negatively impacts bee health and pollination efficiency. To address this, we developed a fermented protein feed using microorganisms from pollen of Melipona quadrifasciata, a species commonly found in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. The fermented feed consisted of a protein bran mixture, sugar syrup, and an inoculant derived from species’ fermented pollen. To assess the feed quality, nutritional evaluation and metabolomic analyses were conducted (UHPLC/DAD-HRMS/MS and GC-MS). The metabolomic analysis identified 85 compounds in positive and 102 in negative ionization modes. Shared metabolites, such as isoquercetin and palatinose, highlighted similarities between the feed and natural fermented pollen. Laboratory tests with caged bees showed comparable consumption between the feed and fermented pollen with no statistical difference (mean: 0.067 g vs. 0.060 g; p = 0.53). The feed exhibited a favorable pH transition (5.30 pre-fermentation to 4.41 after the fermentation process) and remained stable for six months at ±2 °C. These findings demonstrate a biotechnological advance in stingless bee nutrition, offering a viable solution during resource scarcity and promoting the health of M. quadrifasciata.
Assessing the Coordination Development Level of Agricultural Economy and Ecology in China: Regional Disparities, Dynamics, and Barriers
Authors: Zhan Lei , Huang Xiaoying , Xu Zihao , Huang Zhigang
Published: January 2025

Achieving sustainable rural development in China requires effectively integrating agricultural growth with ecological balance. However, existing research on the coordination between agricultural economy and ecosystems has often focused on isolated aspects, such as economic growth or ecological sustainability, or has been limited to specific provinces or regions, lacking a comprehensive nationwide analysis. To address this gap, this study uses spatial data from 31 provincial-level regions in China from 2008 to 2022, developing a multidimensional framework that encompasses economic input, structure, efficiency, benefits, vitality, ecological conditions, and pressure. Using multi-factor econometric methods, we comprehensively evaluate the coordination between China’s agricultural economy and ecosystems, revealing regional disparities and spatiotemporal variations in their coupling coordination, and analyzing the barriers affecting this coordination. Our findings show that: First, coupling coordination has steadily improved, narrowing regional disparities. Second, regional differences are primarily driven by variations between the eastern, central, and western regions, with structural disparities shifting from interregional to hyper-variable density. Third, development exhibits a “club convergence” pattern, where upward transitions are difficult and downward mobility is a risk. Key barriers include farmland scale, land efficiency, afforestation area, and soil erosion control. Based on these findings, we recommend regional development strategies, dynamic monitoring mechanisms, optimized land use, and enhanced ecological protection. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers and practitioners to promote the coordinated and sustainable development of agricultural economies and ecosystems in China.
Production of High-Quality Seeds in Eryngium foetidum: Optimizing Post-Harvest Resting Conditions for Sustainable Unconventional Food Systems
Authors: Pedrosa Laura Monteiro , Rosário Isabelle Caroline Bailosa do , de Castro Giovanna , Martins Cibele Chalita
Published: January 2025

Eryngium foetidum is a promising crop for diversifying agriculture and supporting sustainable development through nutrient-rich unconventional foods. However, limited knowledge about its seed viability and post-harvest management hinders its commercial scalability. This study explored the effects of post-harvest resting treatments on seed quality and vigor, assessing seeds from whole plants, aerial parts, floral spikes, and umbels after 7 and 14 days of resting. Key metrics included seed yield, purity, moisture content, germination, and vigor were assessed. Results showed that seeds retained on whole plants achieved the highest physical purity (72.2%). Seeds that rested for 7 days exhibited higher germination rates (59%), faster germination (mean germination time of 17 days), and improved seedling establishment (70% emergence) compared to seeds that rested for longer durations. These outcomes highlight the importance of specific post-harvest conditions for optimizing assimilate redistribution enhancing seed quality and seedling performance. This research bridges a critical gap in post-harvest management knowledge for E. foetidum, offering practical insights to improve cultivation practices and promote its adoption as a strategic crop. The findings align with global efforts to advance sustainable and innovative agroecosystems. Further studies under diverse environmental conditions and harvest times are recommended to validate these results and support large-scale implementation.
Research on Small-Target Detection of Flax Pests and Diseases in Natural Environment by Integrating Similarity-Aware Activation Module and Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network Module Features
Authors: Zhong Manxi , Li Yue , Gao Yuhong
Published: January 2025

In the detection of the pests and diseases of flax, early wilt disease is elusive, yellow leaf disease symptoms are easily confusing, and pest detection is hampered by issues such as diversity in species, difficulty in detection, and technological bottlenecks, posing significant challenges to detection efforts. To address these issues, this paper proposes a flax pest and disease detection method based on an improved YOLOv8n model. To enhance the detection accuracy and generalization capability of the model, this paper first employs the Albumentations library for data augmentation, which strengthens the model’s adaptability to complex environments by enriching the diversity of training samples. Secondly, in terms of model architecture, a Bidirectional Feature Pyramid Network (BiFPN) module is introduced to replace the original feature extraction network. Through bidirectional multi-scale feature fusion, the model’s ability to distinguish pests and diseases with similar features and large scale differences is effectively improved. Meanwhile, the integration of the SimAM attention mechanism enables the model to learn information from three-dimensional channels, enhancing its perception of pest and disease features. Additionally, this paper adopts the EIOU loss function to further optimize the model’s bounding box regression, reducing the distortion of bounding boxes caused by high sample variability. The experimental results demonstrate that the improved model achieves a significant detection performance on the flax pest and disease dataset, with notable improvements in the detection accuracy and mean average precision compared to the original YOLOv8n model. Finally, this paper proposes a YOLOv8n model with a four-headed detection design, which significantly enhances the detection capability for small targets such as pests and diseases with a size of 4 × 4 pixels or larger by introducing new detection heads and optimizing feature extraction. This method not only improves the detection accuracy for flax pests and diseases but also maintains a high computational efficiency, providing effective technical support for the rapid and precise detection of flax pests and diseases and possessing an important practical application value.
Probiotic Characterization of Lactic Acid Bacteria from Donkey Feces in China
Authors: Wu Yanqiu , Yue Shousong , Yu Jinhui , Bian Fei , Chen Gao , Zhang Yan
Published: January 2025

Probiotics are beneficial to humans and animals and often used for regulating immunity, intestinal microbiota balance, and animal growth performance. Donkey husbandry has boomed in China in recent years and there is an urgent need for probiotics effective for improving donkey health. However, studies on potential probiotic strains isolated from donkeys are scarce. This project aimed to screen LAB strains from donkey feces, detect their antimicrobial activity and evaluate their probiotic characteristics in vitro. Thirteen LAB isolates showed different degrees of antimicrobial activity against four indicator bacteria: three common pathogens (Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Salmonella typhimurium) and one pathogen restricted to equines (Salmonella. abortus equi), eight of which could inhibit all four pathogens. Seven isolates showed higher tolerance to low pH and bile salts, with >50% and >60% survival rates, respectively. Five of them had more than 50% survival rate to artificial gastric and intestinal fluids. Only three isolates possessed good properties, with >40% auto-aggregation, >40% hydrophobicity, and high co-aggregation with the indicator pathogens. An L9 isolate, identified as Ligilactobacillus salivarius, was sensitive to most antibiotics tested. Overall, these results indicate that the L. salivarius L9 isolate meets the requirements of the probiotics selection criteria in vitro and can potentially be developed as a probiotic for donkeys.
Impact of Hypocaloric Diets on Weight Loss and Body Composition in Obese Dogs: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Vanelli Karoline , Wisneski Rafael Fernando , Estevão Camila , Mayer Fernanda Caroline , Costa Leandro Batista , Webber Saulo Henrique , Pimpão Cláudia Turra
Published: January 2025

Canine obesity is a complex, multifactorial condition marked by excessive body fat accumulation due to a sustained positive energy balance. Over the past decade, its global prevalence has risen significantly in most industrialized nations. Despite the availability of numerous commercial diets designed for obesity management in dogs, these products exhibit considerable variability in nutrient composition, and there is currently no standardized guideline on optimal macronutrient levels for effective weight loss. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of specific macronutrient levels on weight loss and body composition in obese dogs. A comprehensive literature search was conducted from 2022 to 2024 across PUBMED, Scielo, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Out of an initial 1727 documents, 20 studies met the inclusion criteria and were incorporated into this meta-analysis. Diets with energy densities below 3.275 kcal, protein levels above 25%, total dietary fiber exceeding 12%, lower fat (<10%), and reduced non-nitrogenous extract (<40%) demonstrated beneficial effects on all evaluated parameters, including weight loss and body composition assessment. This meta-analysis provides evidence-based nutritional recommendations on optimal caloric, protein, fiber, fat, and carbohydrate levels for hypocaloric diet formulations, supporting healthy weight loss and lean mass preservation in obese dogs. These findings contribute to the development of effective dietary strategies that enhance canine quality of life and longevity.
Antimicrobial Residues in Poultry Litter: Assessing the Association of Antimicrobial Persistence with Resistant Escherichia coli Strains
Authors: Cortés Paula , Pokrant Ekaterina , Yévenes Karina , Maddaleno Aldo , Flores Andrés , Vargas María Belén , Trincado Lina , Maturana Matías , Lapierre Lisette , Cornejo Javiera
Published: January 2025

Objective: We set out to evaluate the persistence of sulfachloropyridazine, oxytetracycline, and enrofloxacin in broiler chicken litter following therapeutic oral treatment and its association with the isolation of Escherichia coli resistant to these antimicrobials. Methods: Forty broiler chickens were raised under controlled conditions and divided into three experimental groups, each treated with a different antimicrobial, in addition to an untreated/control group. Litter samples were collected post treatment, analyzed by UPLC-MS/MS, and processed for the isolation of E. coli. The antimicrobial susceptibility of E. coli was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer disk diffusion method. Results: Chemical analysis detected concentrations of antimicrobials throughout post treatment, reaching maxima of 42,910.14 μg kg−1, 92,712 μg kg−1, and 9567 μg kg−1 for sulfachloropyridazine, oxytetracycline plus 4-epi-oxytetracycline, and enrofloxacin plus ciprofloxacin, respectively. It was estimated that the concentrations of sulfachloropyridazine, oxytetracycline, and enrofloxacin would persist in broiler litter for 61, 244, and 514 days, respectively. A very strong association was observed between the presence of antimicrobial residues and the antimicrobial resistance of E. coli (p-value < 0.0001, and Cramer’s coefficient of 0.47), and an independence between the level of residue concentration and susceptibility (p-value 0.5262). Conclusions: The persistence of antimicrobial residues contributes to the selection of resistant bacteria, regardless of persistent antimicrobial concentrations. These findings highlight the need for stricter regulations on poultry litter management, including residue thresholds and resistance monitoring, to minimize environmental and public health risks. Proper treatment of poultry litter is essential to ensure its sustainable and safe re-use in agricultural systems.
PK/PD-Guided Strategies for Appropriate Antibiotic Use in the Era of Antimicrobial Resistance
Authors: Onita Tetsushu , Ishihara Noriyuki , Yano Takahisa
Published: January 2025

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical global health threat, necessitating the optimal use of existing antibiotics. Pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK/PD) principles provide a scientific framework for optimizing antimicrobial therapy, particularly to respond to evolving resistance patterns. This review examines PK/PD strategies for antimicrobial dosing optimization, focusing on three key aspects. First, we discuss the importance of drug concentration management for enhancing efficacy while preventing toxicity, considering various patient populations, including pediatric and elderly patients with their unique physiological characteristics. Second, we analyze different PK modeling approaches: the classic top-down approach exemplified by population PK analysis, the bottom-up approach represented by physiologically based PK modeling, and hybrid models combining both approaches for enhanced predictive performance. Third, we explore clinical applications, including nomogram-based dosing strategies, Bayesian estimation, and emerging artificial intelligence applications, for real-time dose optimization. Critical challenges in implementing PK/PD simulation are addressed, particularly the selection of appropriate PK models, the optimization of PK/PD indices, and considerations concerning antimicrobial concentrations at infection sites. Understanding these principles and challenges is crucial for optimizing antimicrobial therapy and combating AMR through improved dosing strategies.
Statistical Parametric Mapping Differences in Muscle Recruitment Patterns Between Comfort- and Performance-Oriented Saddle Positions
Authors: Winiarski Sławomir , Kubiak Adam , Paluszak Adam
Published: January 2025

This study investigates whether electromyography (EMG) analysis can reflect ergonomic improvements for commuter bike users by assessing muscle activity differences between comfort- and performance-oriented saddle positions. A cohort of 30 city bike riders underwent a comprehensive fitting procedure, where one position was individually established based on a comfort perception questionnaire and adjusted by a bike fitter. The aim was to compare the EMG activity of muscles involved in propulsion and lumbar spine stabilisation across different positions. The Statistical Parametric Mapping (SPM) method was also used to analyse muscle activity throughout the pedalling cycle. The results revealed that the customised position significantly reduced EMG activity in muscles, particularly during key pedalling phases, significantly improving rider comfort and muscle efficiency. SPM analysis highlighted decreased strain in the vastus lateralis and tibialis anterior, indicating improved muscular efficiency and enhanced comfort for urban cyclists. This underscores the importance of personalised bike fitting in promoting comfort and reducing the risk of injury, suggesting that EMG analysis is a valuable tool in both clinical and recreational bike-fitting practices. Future research should explore the long-term effects and potential applications of the proposed fitting method for other bicycle geometries whenever comfort and lower back stability are priorities.
A Decentralized Storage and Security Engine (DeSSE) Using Information Fusion Based on Stochastic Processes and Quantum Mechanics
Authors: Iovane Gerardo , Amatore Riccardo
Published: January 2025

In the context of data security, this work aims to present a novel solution that, rather than addressing the topic of endpoint security—which has already garnered significant attention within the international scientific community—offers a different perspective on the subject. In other words, the focus is not on device security but rather on the protection and security of the information contained within those devices. As we will see, the result is a next-generation decentralized infrastructure that simultaneously integrates two cognitive areas: data storage and its protection and security. In this context, an innovative Multiscale Relativistic Quantum (MuReQua) chain is considered to realize a novel decentralized and security solution for storing data. This engine is based on the principles of Quantum Mechanics, stochastic processes, and a new approach of decentralization for data storage focused on information security. The solution is broken down into four main components, considered four levels of security against attackers: (i) defocusing, (ii) fogging, (iii) puzzling, and (iv) crypto agility. The defocusing is realized thanks to a fragmentation of the contents and their distributions on different allocations, while the fogging is a component consisting of a solution of hybrid cyphering. Then, the puzzling is a unit of Information Fusion and Inverse Information Fusion, while the crypto agility component is a frontier component based on Quantum Computing, which gives a stochastic dynamic to the information and, in particular, to its data fragments. The data analytics show a very effective and robust solution, with executions time comparable with cloud technologies, but with a level of security that is a post quantum one. In the end, thanks to a specific application example, going beyond purely technical and technological aspects, this work introduces a new cognitive perspective regarding (i) the distinction between data and information, and (ii) the differentiation between the owner and the custodian of data.
A New Pabs Model for Quantitatively Diagnosing Phosphorus Nutritional Status in Corn Plants
Authors: Zhao Xinwei , Chen Shengbo , Xu Yucheng , Wang Zibo
Published: January 2025

Accurate diagnosis of plant phosphorus nutritional status is critical for optimizing agricultural practices and enhancing resource efficiency. Existing methods are limited to qualitatively assessing plant phosphorus nutritional status and cannot quantitatively estimate the plant’s phosphorus requirements. Moreover, these methods are time-consuming, making them impractical for large-scale application. In this study, we developed an advanced phosphorus absorption model (Pabs) that integrates the phosphorus nutrition index (PNI) and phosphorus use efficiency (PUE). The PUE, a critical metric for assessing phosphate fertilizer use efficiency, was quantified by comparing yields under fertilized and unfertilized conditions. Utilizing the Agricultural Production Systems Simulator (APSIM) model, we simulated maize (Zea mays L.) phosphorus concentration (P) and aboveground biomass (Bio) under varying phosphorus application rates. The model exhibited robust performance, achieving an R2 above 0.95 and an RMSE below 0.22. Based on the APSIM model simulations, a phosphorus dilution curve (Pc = 3.17 Bio−0.29, R2 = 0.98) was established, reflecting the dilution trends of phosphorus across growth stages. Furthermore, the use of vegetation indices (VIS) to evaluate phosphorus nutritional status also showed promising results, with inversion accuracies exceeding 0.70. To validate the model, field sampling was conducted in maize-growing regions of Changchun. Results demonstrated a correct diagnosis rate of 75%, underscoring the model’s capacity to accurately estimate phosphorus requirements on a regional scale. These findings highlight the Pabs model as a reliable tool for precision phosphorus management, offering significant potential to optimize fertilization strategies and support sustainable agricultural systems.
Characterization and Modelling of Potential Seaborne Disasters, in the ANA Region
Authors: Labib Ashraf , Jones Dylan , Andreassen Natalia , Elvegård Rune , Cainzos Mikel Dominguez
Published: January 2025

Shipping activities continue to experience growth across a multitude of industrial sectors within the Arctic, hence there are risks in terms of severity and likelihood of accidents. The Arctic region is inherently dangerous to transportation and human existence due to its extreme climate and environmental conditions, and hence the complexities associated with emergency situations within the maritime domain are amplified when operating within the Arctic and North-Atlantic (ANA). The definition and characterisation of potential seaborne disasters and catastrophic incidents in the ANA region are significant enablers in providing a set of critical and sustainable tools for Search and Rescue (SAR), Oil Spill Response (OSR), and emergency management practitioners. Therefore, in this paper we aim to identify and characterise high-priority potential seaborne disasters and catastrophic incidents in the ANA region such as cruise ship accidents, oil leaks, radiological leaks, and fishing boat groundings. These were compiled as an outcome of a set of workshops carried out as part of the ARCSAR, EU Horizon 2020 funded project, and from analysis of the literature. We also provide root cause analysis techniques, tools for strategic decision-making, and means of mitigation. We demonstrate how such tools can be used by applying some of them to a selective case study and drawing lessons learned from the application of root cause analysis, which can help emergency response organisations with preparedness work and hence more efficient response. In doing so, we provide a set of tools that can be used for strategic and operational learning. Such approaches can help standardise the definition and characterisation of potential seaborne disasters and catastrophic incidents in the ANA region in both prospective and retrospective analysis.
Approximation and the Multidimensional Moment Problem
Authors: Olteanu Octav
Published: January 2025

The aim of this paper is to apply polynomial approximation by sums of squares in several real variables to the multidimensional moment problem. The general idea is to approximate any element of the positive cone of the involved function space with sums whose terms are squares of polynomials. First, approximations on a Cartesian product of intervals by polynomials taking nonnegative values on the entire R2, or on R+2, are considered. Such results are discussed in Lμ1R2 and in CS1×S2-type spaces, for a large class of measures, μ, for compact subsets Si, i=1,2 of the interval [0,+∞). Thus, on such subsets, any nonnegative function is a limit of sums of squares. Secondly, applications to the bidimensional moment problem are derived in terms of quadratic expressions. As is well known, in multidimensional cases, such results are difficult to prove. Directions for future work are also outlined.
The Data Heterogeneity Issue Regarding COVID-19 Lung Imaging in Federated Learning: An Experimental Study
Authors: Alhafiz Fatimah , Basuhail Abdullah
Published: January 2025

Federated learning (FL) has emerged as a transformative framework for collaborative learning, offering robust model training across institutions while ensuring data privacy. In the context of making a COVID-19 diagnosis using lung imaging, FL enables institutions to collaboratively train a global model without sharing sensitive patient data. A central manager aggregates local model updates to compute global updates, ensuring secure and effective integration. The global model’s generalization capability is evaluated using centralized testing data before dissemination to participating nodes, where local assessments facilitate personalized adaptations tailored to diverse datasets. Addressing data heterogeneity, a critical challenge in medical imaging, is essential for improving both global performance and local personalization in FL systems. This study emphasizes the importance of recognizing real-world data variability before proposing solutions to tackle non-independent and non-identically distributed (non-IID) data. We investigate the impact of data heterogeneity on FL performance in COVID-19 lung imaging across seven distinct heterogeneity settings. By comprehensively evaluating models using generalization and personalization metrics, we highlight challenges and opportunities for optimizing FL frameworks. The findings provide valuable insights that can guide future research toward achieving a balance between global generalization and local adaptation, ultimately enhancing diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in COVID-19 lung imaging.
A Survey on Optical Coherence Tomography—Technology and Application
Authors: Mokhtari Ali , Maris Bogdan Mihai , Fiorini Paolo
Published: January 2025

This paper reviews the main research on Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT), focusing on the progress and advancements made by researchers over the past three decades in its methods and medical imaging applications. By analyzing existing studies and developments, this review aims to provide a foundation for future research in the field.
Older Fallers’ Comprehensive Neuromuscular and Kinematic Alterations in Reactive Balance Control: Indicators of Balance Decline or Compensation? A Pilot Study
Authors: Zhu Ringo Tang-Long , Hung Timmi Tim Mei , Lam Freddy Man Hin , Li Jun-Zhe , Luo Yu-Yan , Sun Jingting , Wang Shujun , Ma Christina Zong-Hao
Published: January 2025

Background: Falls and fall consequences in older adults are global health issues. Previous studies have compared postural sways or stepping strategies between older adults with and without fall histories to identify factors associated with falls. However, more in-depth neuromuscular/kinematic mechanisms have remained unclear. This study aimed to comprehensively investigate muscle activities and joint kinematics during reactive balance control in older adults with different fall histories. Methods: This pilot observational study recruited six community-dwelling older fallers (≥1 fall in past one year) and six older non-fallers, who received unpredictable translational balance perturbations in randomized directions and intensities during standing. The whole-body center-of-mass (COM) displacements, eight dominant-leg joint motions and muscle electrical activities were collected, and analyzed using the temporal and amplitude parameters. Results: Compared to non-fallers, fallers had significantly: (a) smaller activation rate of the ankle dorsiflexor, delayed activation of the hip flexor/extensor, larger activation rate of the knee flexor, and smaller agonist-antagonist co-contraction in lower-limb muscles; (b) larger knee/hip flexion angles, longer ankle dorsiflexion duration, and delayed timing of recovery in joint motions; and (c) earlier downward COM displacements and larger anteroposterior overshooting COM displacements following unpredictable perturbations (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Compared to non-fallers, fallers used more suspensory strategies for reactive standing balance, which compensated for inadequate ankle/hip strategies but resulted in prolonged recovery. A further longitudinal study with a larger sample is still needed to examine the diagnostic accuracies and training values of these identified neuromuscular/kinematic factors in differentiating fall risks and preventing future falls of older people, respectively.
Correction: Kuklane et al. A Database of Static Thermal Insulation and Evaporative Resistance Values of Dutch Firefighter Clothing Items and Ensembles. Biology 2022, 11, 1813
Authors: Kuklane Kalev , Eggeling Jakob , Kemmeren Maurice , Heus Ronald
Published: January 2025

The original publication contained an erroneous data line in Appendix A, “Table A1 [...]
Acral Melanoma: A Review of Its Pathogenesis, Progression, and Management
Authors: Kim Soo Hyun , Tsao Hensin
Published: January 2025

Acral melanoma is a distinct subtype of cutaneous malignant melanoma that uniquely occurs on ultraviolet (UV)-shielded, glabrous skin of the palms, soles, and nail beds. While acral melanoma only accounts for 2–3% of all melanomas, it represents the most common subtype among darker-skinned, non-Caucasian individuals. Unlike other cutaneous melanomas, acral melanoma does not arise from UV radiation exposure and is accordingly associated with a relatively low tumor mutational burden. Recent advances in genomic, transcriptomic, and epigenomic sequencing have revealed genetic alterations unique to acral melanoma, including novel driver genes, high copy number variations, and complex chromosomal rearrangements. This review synthesizes the current knowledge on the clinical features, epidemiology, and treatment approaches for acral melanoma, with a focus on the genetic pathogenesis that gives rise to its unique tumor landscape. These findings highlight a need to deepen our genetic and molecular understanding to better target this challenging subtype of melanoma.
Post-Traumatic Left Subclavian Artery Pseudoaneurysm Secondary to Clavicular Fracture: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Wojtyś Małgorzata Edyta , Skórka Patryk , Kordykiewicz Dawid , Falkowski Aleksander , Jakubowska-Grzeszyk Joanna , Wójcik Janusz , Wojtys Edward Michael
Published: January 2025

Subclavian artery pseudoaneurysms are rare but potentially life-threatening vascular injuries frequently associated with trauma such as clavicle fractures. In this paper we describe the case of a 49-year-old male who developed a post-traumatic pseudoaneurysm of the subclavian artery after a bicycle accident. The diagnosis was delayed due to non-specific symptoms and an initially missed aneurysm on computed tomography imaging. Persistent pain, swelling, and erythema in the subclavian region prompted further detailed diagnostics, which ultimately revealed the pseudoaneurysm. The patient was successfully treated with endovascular stent–graft implantation. We screened the PubMed database to identify similar cases managed exclusively through endovascular intervention. Reports of iatrogenic pseudoaneurysms and those treated with open surgery were excluded. Variables such as time to diagnosis, clinical presentation, features of pseudoaneurysms, and complications were analyzed to highlight the role of endovascular techniques as a minimally invasive and effective treatment option. These cases pose both a diagnostic and a therapeutic challenge, as early recognition of symptoms is crucial to prevent serious complications including thrombosis, neurological deficits, and even limb loss.
Pathology of Red Blood Cells in Patients with SARS-CoV-2
Authors: Hakobyan Sona , Hakobyan Lina , Abroyan Liana , Avetisyan Aida , Avagyan Hranush , Bayramyan Nane , Niazyan Lyudmila , Davidyants Mher , Sargsyan Knarik , Ghalechyan Tehmine , Semerjyan Anna , Karalova Elena , Karalyan Zaven
Published: January 2025

Background: Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection has been associated with various hematological disorders. Understanding the pathology of erythrocytes (red blood cells) in coronavirus infection may provide insights into disease severity and progression. Objective: To review and analyze the general pathology of erythrocytes in patients infected with SARS-CoV-2, focusing on clinical and laboratory findings across different severity groups. Methods: Patients were classified into four groups based on clinical criteria: Group 1: Regular group (fever, respiratory symptoms, and radiographic evidence of pneumonia). Group 2: Severe group (shortness of breath >30 breaths/min, peripheral blood oxygen saturation <92% at rest, extensive pneumonia, respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation, and/or organ failure necessitating intensive care). Group 3: Low saturation group (peripheral blood oxygen saturation <85% at rest). Group 4: Erythroblastosis group (erythroblast count >0.5% among total nucleated blood cells). Clinical laboratory investigations included major routine studies and scanning microspectrophotometry to measure hemoglobin (Hb) spectra in unstained erythrocytes. Results: Erythroblasts were detected in approximately 30% of SARS-CoV-2 patients, predominantly in the severe group. Serum ferritin, C-reactive protein (CRP), and anisocytosis were strongly correlated with disease severity. Microspectrophotometric studies revealed significant changes in hemoglobin adsorption spectra, with an increase in Hb absorbance at 420 nm in severe cases compared to normal controls. Conclusions: Elevated serum ferritin, CRP levels, anisocytosis, and altered hemoglobin absorption at 420 nm wavelength are associated with adverse outcomes in SARS-CoV-2 infection. These findings highlight the potential utility of hematological parameters as markers for disease severity and prognosis in viral infections.