bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
STEM approach using soccer: improving academic performance in Physics and Mathematics in a real-world context
Authors: Queiruga-Dios Miguel Ángel , Vázquez Dorrío José Benito , Sáiz-Manzanares María Consuelo , López-Iñesta Emilia , Diez-Ojeda María
Published: February 2025

This proposal adds original approaches to the currently scarce body of practical evidence on the application of STEM innovations in the curriculum. A teaching-learning program was designed in a real-world context such as the game of soccer with a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) approach through a cooperative problem-solving methodology. The objectives of the research focus on analyzing the effect of the use of this STEM unit on the academic performance of students, taking into account the gender variable; and their appreciation of the activities and methodology used, as well as the challenges encountered and their solutions. The intervention was implemented in the 4th year of Compulsory Secondary Education in a school in Spain with 36 students (24 girls and 12 boys). Academic performance was analyzed taking into account the gender variable, for which a quasi-experimental design was applied before and after with a control group. The appreciation and interest of the experimental group regarding the methodology used as well as the difficulties that arose were studied. As a result, there is an improvement in the academic performance, which is more evident in girls. The methodology has been valued positively and the greatest difficulties refer to the distribution of roles and understanding and carrying out the activities, however, these difficulties were resolved with the help of classmates and the teacher.
Prevalence trend and burden of foodborne trematodiasis in China from 1990 to 2021 and its predictions until 2030: a comparative study with Japan and South Korea
Authors: Ma Runzhou , Li Na , Chen Chengming , Lan Jianqiang , Guo Huaibin , Zhang Wanxing
Published: February 2025

Background

Foodborne trematodiasis (FBT) poses a significant public health challenge in East Asia, influenced by local dietary practices and environmental conditions. This study evaluates the prevalence trends and disease burden of FBT in China, Japan, and South Korea from 1990 to 2021, with future burden projections until 2030, to guide targeted prevention strategies and public health resource allocation.

Methods

The study utilized data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) 2021, including the absolute prevalence, age-standardized prevalence rate (ASPR), disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and age-standardized DALY rate (ASDALR). Joinpoint regression analyzed the average annual percentage change (AAPC) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) to track FBT burden trends. A comparative analysis was conducted across different dimensions of the burden of FBT among China, Japan, and South Korea, including age, gender, and temporal trends. Additionally, the Bayesian age-period-cohort (BAPC) model projected future FBT burden trends.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, China showed significant reductions in ASPR (41.65%) and ASDALR (47.44%) of FBT. South Korea also noted a slight decrease, yet both had higher rates than the global average. Japan, conversely, saw a notable increase in FBT burden but with an overall lower burden compared to the global average. Males generally exhibited a higher disease burden than females. Future projections indicate a continued decline or stabilization in China and Japan, with a potential slight increase in South Korea by 2030.

Conclusion

The study reveals contrasting trends in FBT burden among the three East Asian countries, with significant declines in China, a slight decrease in South Korea despite higher-than-global rates, and an increasing but low burden in Japan. These insights are crucial for tailoring public health interventions and allocating resources effectively to combat FBT in the region.
Equine neutrophils selectively release neutrophil extracellular traps in response to chemical and bacterial agonists
Authors: Sheahan Breanna J. , Schubert Alicia G. , Schubert William , Sheats M. Katie , Schnabel Lauren V. , Gilbertie Jessica M.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs) play a significant role in response to a variety of infectious and inflammatory stimuli in human and veterinary medicine. Although entrapment of bacteria can be an important function of NETs, the exuberant release of DNA and other intracellular molecules has also been negatively implicated in the pathogenesis of different diseases. Thus, NET formation must be tightly controlled and represents an opportunity for therapeutic interventions. Horses are particularly sensitive to bacterial stimuli that have previously been shown to cause NETs in other species, but the species-specific processes that control NET release have not been fully elucidated.

Methods

The purpose of this study was to compare the magnitude of response of equine neutrophils to different chemical and bacterial stimuli, including phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate (PMA), a calcium ionophore (A23187), Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. In addition, we investigated whether ex vivo equine NET formation is controlled by the NADPH-oxidase (NOX) pathway and by autophagy, both of which control NET formation in other species.

Results

We demonstrated that equine neutrophils produce robust NETs in response to calcium ionophore and E. coli stimuli and produce fewer NETs in response to PMA and S. aureus. Both NOX-dependent and NOX-independent pathways of NET formation were identified in equine neutrophils. Autophagy inhibition altered the mechanics of NET release, by reducing the amount of extracellular DNA stranding.

Discussion

These results provide insight into equine-specific neutrophil biology, which could be key for managing equine diseases such as asthma and laminitis.
Vaccination versus antimicrobials to prevent Porcine Proliferative Enteropathy: associated costs and effects on piglets’ growth, health, and serological performance
Authors: Gallina Marco Aurélio , Quirino Monike Willemin , Frandoloso Rafael , Tutida Yuso Henrique , Norenberg Adriano , Coldebella Arlei , Bianchi Ivan , Kich Jalusa Deon
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study evaluated vaccination and prophylactic use of antimicrobials as strategies to prevent Porcine Proliferative Enteropathy (PPE) during nursery and growth-finishing phases.

Methods

Three hundred weaned piglets (~ 29 days old) were distributed into groups: NVMED – no vaccinated against Lawsonia intracellularis but in-feed medicated with antimicrobials (amoxicillin, florfenicol, lincomycin, spectinomycin and tilmicosin); VMED – vaccinated and in-feed medicated; VNMED – vaccinated but no in-feed medicated. Piglets were vaccinated at weaning (Porcilis® Ileitis, MSD Animal Health). The following variables were assessed: growth and health performance, anti-L. intracellularis IgG levels, L. intracellularis fecal shedding, Pneumonia and Pleurisy Index (PPI) at slaughter, antimicrobial consumption and costs, and vaccination expenses.

Results

Average daily gain (ADG) at the nursery phase was lower in VNMED group (p < 0.01); however, there was no treatment effect on feed conversion, ADG, and body weight at growth-finishing phase (p ≥ 0.23). Similar anti-L. intracellularis IgG levels were found for VMED and VNMED groups at all evaluated moments (p = 0.01). L. intracellularis was only detected in feces samples from 4/90 tested piglets and no difference in health performance was found (p > 0.05). Groups presented PPI < 0.89. In-feed antimicrobial consumption and related costs were 3 to 3.5-fold higher for NVMED and VMED groups compared to VNMED group.

Discussion

The prophylactic administration of antimicrobials used in this study did not affect the serological performance post-vaccination against L. intracellularis. Additionally, vaccine use to prevent PPE reduced the antimicrobial consumption and related costs by ~70%, with no impairments on production outputs.
Kavalactone Content and Profile of Kava Cultivated on Taveuni, Qamea, and Rabi Islands of Fiji
Authors: Devi Deepti Darshani , Pasinszki Tibor
Published: February 2025

The kava beverage of the Pacific is known for its intoxicating, soothing and relaxing effects, attributed to a group of compounds (called kavalactones) produced by the kava plant. An unfavorable kavalactone profile, however, contributes to side effects, including hepatotoxicity. Therefore, the chemical quality of kava is of key importance for consumer safety. This work investigated the chemical quality of the kava cultivated on the Taveuni, Qamea, and Rabi Islands by quantifying the main kavalactones in the roots and rhizomes of eighty-eight kava plants using the HPLC method. It was concluded that the farmers in these regions almost exclusively grow classified noble kava cultivars with a favorable kavalactone profile; the total kavalactone concentration varies between 7.2–14.1 wt.% and 4.7–8.2 wt.% in the dried roots and rhizomes, respectively. Kavain is the major kavalactone component (27–34 wt.% of the total amount of kavalactones), followed by methysticin, yangonin, or dihydrokavain in the roots, and dihydrokavain or methysticin in the rhizomes, respectively. One unclassified non-noble cultivar, with elevated levels of non-desirable dihydrokavain, dihydromethysticin, and flavokavains, is also identified and characterized.
Continuous and Intermittent Drying of Osmotically Pretreated Melon Pieces: Analysis of Energy Savings and Preservation of Bioactive Compounds
Authors: Pereira Joan Carlos Alves , Silva Wilton Pereira da , Gomes Josivanda Palmeira , Queiroz Alexandre José de Melo , Figueirêdo Rossana Maria Feitosa de , Paiva Yaroslávia Ferreira , Santos Francislaine Suelia dos , Melo Bruno Adelino de , Silva Júnior Aluizio Freire da , Souto Leidjane Matos de , Santos Dyego da Costa , Farias Juanne Queiroz , Lima Antonio Gilson Barbosa de
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study was to carry out a study on continuous and intermittent drying (intermittency ratio α = 2/3) of osmotically pretreated melon pieces, cut in the form of a parallelepiped. An osmotic dehydration pretreatment was performed using an incubator with mechanical shaking. Drying processes were carried out using an oven with forced air circulation at temperatures of 50 and 70 °C. The data were modeled by means of empirical equations, in order to compare the drying kinetics and analyze the impact of the intermittent process on energy savings and preservation of bioactive compounds in the final product. The experiments were also described using a diffusion model in Cartesian coordinates, with a third-kind boundary condition, in order to analyze the moisture distribution inside each piece of fruit over time. Among the empirical equations analyzed, Page’s was the one that best described the continuous and intermittent drying of osmotically pretreated melon pieces. In order to obtain dried melon, intermittent drying significantly reduced the effective processing time and, consequently, energy consumption, preserving the bioactive compounds more intensely (particularly at a temperature of 50 °C), compared to continuous drying. The diffusion model adequately described all the drying experiments, and it was found that the effective mass diffusivity increased significantly with the application of intermittency.
Anti-Adhesion Superhydrophobic High-Frequency Electrotome
Authors: Fu Haodong , Li Yuheng , Liu Jiyu , Liu Hao , Li Yun , Zhao Yue , Yan Defeng , Liu Xin
Published: February 2025

High-frequency electrotome (HFE) encompassing rapid cutting speed, effective hemostasis, and simple operation plays a critical role in the electrosurgical field. However, the blood and tissue adhesion on HFE can cause secondary tissue tearing and bleeding. Constrained by the blood and tissue adhesion of conventional HFEs during surgical procedure, aside from prolonged surgical time, secondary tissue tear and bleeding may occur. Available methods have been proposed to alleviate these problems, including additional devices, coating methods, and surface patterning. However, practical applications of existing HFEs with their high cost, low conductivity, and instability remain a challenge. To solve these challenges, we proposed a facile and eco-friendly superhydrophobic high-frequency electrotome (SH-HFE) based on surface patterning, which has blood anti-adhesion and tissue anti-adhesion. The mechanism contributing to superhydrophobicity was investigated by scanning electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. The blood adhesion experiments and tissue adhesion experiments were conducted to verify the effectiveness of SH-HFE with surface patterning in practical applications. Compared with conventional HFEs, blood adhesion and tissue adhesion on SH-HFE were reduced by 89.7% and 94.8%, respectively, while still maintaining excellent conductivity. The proposed SH-HFE would provide significant benefits to the electrosurgical field.
InSAR-RiskLSTM: Enhancing Railway Deformation Risk Prediction with Image-Based Spatial Attention and Temporal LSTM Models
Authors: Lyu Baihang , Zhang Ziwen , Fill Heinz D.
Published: February 2025

Railway infrastructure faces significant operational threats due to ground deformation risks from natural and anthropogenic sources, posing serious challenges to safety and maintenance. Traditional monitoring methods often fail to capture the complex spatiotemporal patterns of railway deformation, leading to delayed responses and increased risks of infrastructure failure. To address these limitations, this study introduces InSAR-RiskLSTM, a novel framework that leverages the high-resolution and wide-coverage capabilities of Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) to enhance railway deformation risk prediction. The primary objective of this study is to develop an advanced predictive model that accurately captures both temporal dependencies and spatial susceptibilities in railway deformation processes. The proposed InSAR-RiskLSTM framework integrates Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) networks with spatial attention mechanisms to dynamically prioritize high-risk regions and improve predictive accuracy. By combining image-based spatial attention for deformation hotspot identification with advanced temporal modeling, the approach ensures more reliable and proactive risk assessment. Extensive experiments on real-world railway datasets demonstrate that InSAR-RiskLSTM achieves superior predictive performance compared to baseline models, underscoring its robustness and practical applicability. The results highlight its potential to contribute to proactive railway maintenance and risk mitigation strategies by providing early warnings for infrastructure vulnerabilities. This work advances the integration of image-based methods within cyber–physical systems, offering practical tools for safeguarding critical railway networks.
A Small-Sample Target Detection Method of Side-Scan Sonar Based on CycleGAN and Improved YOLOv8
Authors: Zheng Ye , Yan Jun , Meng Junxia , Liang Ming
Published: February 2025

Because of their low cost and ease of deployment, side-scan sonars is one of the most widely used underwater survey instruments. However, the complexity of the marine environment and the difficulty in target acquisition limit the detection accuracy of side-scan sonars. To address these issues, this study proposes a small-sample target detection method of side-scan sonar images using the Cycle-Consistent Generative Adversarial Network (CycleGAN) model and the improved YOLOv8 model. First, considering the difficulty in obtaining side-scan sonar target images, the proposed method uses the CycleGAN model to generate pseudo-side-scan sonar images from optical images for data augmentation. Second, the original YOLOv8 model is revised by adding attention mechanisms, employing deformable convolution networks, and updating the loss function to improve the target detection accuracy of side-scan sonar images. Experimental results demonstrated the effectiveness of the CycleGAN model in generating pseudo-side-scan sonar images and better performance of the improved YOLOv8 model in the target detection of side-scan images. Moreover, the combination of data augmentation and the improved YOLOv8 model can remarkably increase the target detection accuracy of side-scan images. The proposed methods can effectively improve the target detection efficiency of underwater sonars in marine surveying.
Vegetation Dynamics and Response to Climate Change in Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin During 1981–2020
Authors: Liu Fang , Tang Junlong , Guo Jing , Zhang Leilei , Sang Xuefeng , Guo Weijian , Qin Tianling
Published: February 2025

The ecosystems of the Yarlung Tsangpo River Basin (YTRB) are fragile and sensitive to climate change, so an in-depth analysis of the relationship between the vegetation dynamics in the YTRB and climate change is crucial to understand regional and global climate change. This study quantified the spatial and temporal characteristics of the vegetation cover and meteorological elements in the YTRB over the past four decades. The evapotranspiration data were corrected by combining the characteristics of the vegetation in the region in order to systematically explore the relationship between the vegetation change and climate change response in the YTRB. The results indicated that the fractional vegetation cover (FVC), air temperature (ATEM) and precipitation (PRE) showed a significant increase during 1981–2020, with a variable speed of 0.05/10a, 0.38 °C/10a, and 13.3 mm/10a. The actual evapotranspiration (AET) decreased significantly (32.8 mm/10a). There were positive effects of the increased ATEM and decreased AET on the increase in FVC, with ATEM as the leading factor of influence. After excluding the influence of other factors, the degree of influence of PRE on FVC increased to 2.5 times of the original, and the AET increased by 28.57%. The three climate factors synergistically contribute to the positive development of FVC in 47.43% of the upper and middle sections of the YTRB.
Investigating Meteorological Factors Influencing Pollutant Concentrations and Copernicus Atmosphere Monitoring Service (CAMS) Model Forecasts in the Tehran Metropolis
Authors: Karami Sara , Ghassabi Zahra , Khoddam Noushin , Habibi Maral
Published: February 2025

In recent years, air pollution has become a significant issue for megacities. This study analyzed the air pollution levels in Tehran and the relationship between pollutant concentrations and atmospheric quantities during 2023. The correlation coefficients between wind speed, temperature, mean sea level pressure (MSLP), and relative humidity (RH) were calculated against the concentrations of NO2, NOx, PM10, and PM2.5. Additionally, one case study was conducted for each pollutant. Approximately 72% of haze phenomena in Tehran were recorded in November, December, and January. The monthly pattern of PM10 concentration indicated higher levels in the southern and western parts of Tehran. For PM2.5, in addition to these areas, significant concentrations were also observed in the central and eastern parts. NO2 concentrations were found to be higher in the northeast and northern areas. An inverse relationship was found between wind speed and temperature with pollutant concentrations. Positive correlations between MSLP and pollutant concentrations suggested that the pollutant levels also increased as air pressure rose. RH showed a significant direct relationship with PM2.5 and NOx. Synoptic analysis revealed that PM10 case studies often occurred during the warm season, with a thermal low pressure situated over the Iranian plateau. During PM2.5 and NO2 pollution events, Tehran was influenced by high pressure, and 10 m wind speeds were weak. Finally, verification of the 24 h forecast of the CAMS model showed that, while the model accurately predicted the spatial distribution of pollutants in most cases, it consistently underestimated the concentration levels.
Duality and Some Links Between Riemannian Submersion, F-Harmonicity, and Cohomology
Authors: Chen Bang-Yen , Wei Shihshu (Walter)
Published: February 2025

Fundamentally, duality gives two different points of view of looking at the same object. It appears in many subjects in mathematics (geometry, algebra, analysis, PDEs, Geometric Measure Theory, etc.) and in physics. For example, Connections on Fiber Bundles in mathematics, and Gauge Fields in physics are exactly the same. In n-dimensional geometry, a fundamental notion is the “duality” between chains and cochains, or domains of integration and the integrands. In this paper, we extend ideas given in our earlier articles and connect seemingly unrelated areas of F-harmonic maps, f-harmonic maps, and cohomology classes via duality. By studying cohomology classes that are related with p-harmonic morphisms, F-harmonic maps, and f-harmonic maps, we extend several of our previous results on Riemannian submersions and p-harmonic morphisms to F-harmonic maps and f-harmonic maps, which are Riemannian submersions.
Biomechanical Determinants of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Stress in Individuals Post–ACL Reconstruction During Side-Cutting Movements
Authors: Shi Huijuan , Yu Yuanyuan , Huang Hongshi , Li Hanjun , Ren Shuang , Ao Yingfang
Published: February 2025

This cross-sectional laboratory-based study investigates the stress characteristics of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) during side-cutting using a knee finite element (FE) model and identifies biomechanical factors influencing ACL stress. Kinematics and ground reaction forces (GRF) were collected from eight participants (age: 30.3 ± 5.3 years; BMI: 25.6 ± 2.4 kg/m2; time since surgery: 12.8 ± 1.2 months) one year post–ACL reconstruction during side-cutting tasks. A knee FE model incorporating time-varying knee angles, knee forces, and femoral translation was developed to simulate the knee biomechanics. The relationships between ACL stress and lower limb biomechanics were analyzed. The results indicated the highest stress concentrations at the femoral attachment during the early landing phase. Posterior femoral displacement relative to the tibia was significantly correlated with peak ACL equivalent stress (r = 0.89, p = 0.003) and peak ACL shear stress (r = 0.82, p = 0.023). Peak ACL equivalent stress also showed positive correlations with posterior GRF (r = 0.77, p = 0.025) and knee extension moments (r = 0.71, p = 0.049). In contrast, peak ACL shear stress exhibited a significant negative correlation with hip extension moment (r = −0.80, p = 0.032). This study identified key biomechanical factors affecting ACL stress, highlighting the roles of femoral displacement, knee extension moments, and ground reaction forces, while demonstrating a negative relationship with hip extension moments.
Thermostability Improvement of the Chitinase from Bacillus circulans for Efficient Chitin Oligosaccharide Production via Computational Design
Authors: Liu Jingwei , Xie Jie , Wang Si , Feng Hong , Wang Ganggang
Published: February 2025

The chitinase A1 from Bacillus circulans WL-12 (BcChiA1) exhibits promising potential for producing chitin oligosaccharides (CHOs), while its application is limited by its poor thermal stability. In this study, a set of thermostable variants were obtained by modifying BcChiA1 using a comprehensive strategy based on a computer-aided design. A combination of five beneficial single-point mutations (S67G/K177R/A220V/N257Y/N271E) to BcChiA1 generated a markedly improved variant, Mu5. Mu5 exhibited a half-life of 295 min at 60 °C, which was 59 times higher than that of BcChiA1. Furthermore, Mu5 was reused for chitin conversion, releasing 86.14 ± 3.73 mM of CHOs after five reaction cycles. Molecular dynamics simulation and structural analysis revealed that these enhancements were driven by increased structural rigidity and compactness, resulting in a protein conformation that was less prone to thermal denaturation. This combined approach through computational design yielded a thermostable BcChiA1 variant, potentially facilitating CHOs production in economical way.
A Biomimetic Flexible Sliding Suction Cup Suitable for Curved Surfaces
Authors: Cui Enhua , Zhou Xiangcong , Liu Yanqiang , Xue Jixiao , Xiong Siyuan , Zhang Deyuan
Published: February 2025

The sliding suction robots designed for wall-climbing functions could have accuracy defects due to suction cup sealing, friction interference, and surface adaptability. Hence, this work develops a biomimetic, flexible, sliding suction cup suitable for crawling on curved surfaces. Inspired by the hypostomus plecostomus’s mouth, we designed a biomimetic low-contact force flow channel structure and a matrix of friction-reducing protrusions along the lip edge of the sliding suction cup. This design reduces frictional resistance on the sliding interface and the flexible nature of the suction cup, allowing it to be used on curved or vertical surfaces of different materials. Several simulation-based optimization analyses and experimental tests are conducted on the biomimetic low-contact force flow channel structure, and various structural design principles are explored for achieving high adhesion and low-contact force. Additionally, a friction reduction model for the matrix structure is designed to verify the effects of parameters such as load, protrusion size, and quantity on the friction coefficient of the matrix structure surface through friction tests. The sliding suction cup prototype presents an average crawling speed of about 0.4 m/s on a horizontal plane and 0.7 m/s for crawling on vertical walls and the inner surface of a cylindrical rail.
Exploring Nucleic Acid Nanozymes: A New Frontier in Biosensor Development
Authors: Chen Keren , Du Zaihui , Zhang Yangzi , Bai Ruobin , Zhu Longjiao , Xu Wentao
Published: February 2025

With the growing interest in nucleic acids and nanozymes, nucleic acid nanozymes (NANs) have emerged as a promising alternative to traditional enzyme catalysts, combining the advantages of nucleic acids and nanomaterials, and are widely applied in the field of biosensing. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent studies on NAN-based biosensors. It classifies NANs based on six distinct enzymatic activities: peroxidase-like, oxidase-like, catalase-like, superoxide dismutase-like, laccase-like, and glucose oxidase-like. This review emphasizes how the catalytic activity of nanozymes is significantly influenced by the properties of nucleic acids and explores the regulatory mechanisms governing the catalytic activity of NANs. Additionally, it systematically reviews important research progress on NANs in colorimetric, fluorescent, electrochemical, SERS, and chemiluminescent sensors, offering insights into the development of the NAN field and biosensor applications.
Angiogenic Events Positively Modulated by Complex Magnetic Fields in an In Vitro Endothelial Cell Model
Authors: Ricci Alessia , Cataldi Amelia , Gallorini Marialucia , di Giacomo Viviana , Rapino Monica , Di Pietro Natalia , Mantarro Marco , Piattelli Adriano , Zara Susi
Published: February 2025

The vascular system is primarily responsible for orchestrating the underlying healing processes to achieve tissue regeneration, thus the promotion of angiogenic events could be a useful strategy to repair injured tissues. Among several approaches to stimulate tissue regeneration, non-invasive devices are currently widely diffused. Complex Magnetic Fields (CMFs) are innovative pulsed multifrequency electromagnetic fields used for their promising results in clinical applications, such as diabetic foot treatment or edema resorption. Nevertheless, few papers are available demonstrating the biological mechanisms involved. In this paper, in order to understand CMFs’ capability to promote angiogenic events, Regenerative Tissue Program (RTP) was applied to an in vitro Endothelial Cells (ECs) model. ECs were stimulated with (I) 2 RTP consecutive cycles, (II) with an interval of 8 h (T0 + T8), or (III) 24 h (T0 + T24) from one cycle to another. Results demonstrate that (I) extracellular matrix degradation is promoted through matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9 modulation, leading to an increased cell migratory capability; (II) CMFs support EC growth, activating Integrin β1-Erk-Cdk2 pathway and sustaining G1/S transition; (III) vessel morphogenesis is promoted when CMFs are applied. In conclusion, the promising clinical results are supported by in vitro analyses which evidence that main angiogenic events are stimulated by CMFs.
Impact of Adenotonsillectomy on Weight Gain in Children: A Systematic Review
Authors: Alanazi Omar Ibrahim , Alsharif Abdulaziz , Alsharif Arwa , Wasaya Hanan Ismail , Aljifri Faten , Mohammed Atheer , Halawani Reem , Halawani Abdalhadi Mahmood , Awad Baraa , Halawani Mohammed
Published: February 2025

Background: Adenotonsillectomy (AT) is a common surgical procedure among pediatrics, usually performed to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), recurrent tonsillitis, and chronic adenoid hypertrophy. The aim of our systematic review is to evaluate the relationship between AT and postoperative weight gain in children to guide clinicians in optimizing surgical outcomes. Methods: A systematic search was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines in PubMed, MEDLINE, and Web of Science databases. Studies evaluating weight, BMI, and growth parameters before and after AT were included. Data were collaboratively extracted, including patient demographics, baseline weight status, comorbidities, and long-term outcomes. Results: Underweight children (less than the 3rd percentile on the growth chart) who underwent AT often experienced “catch-up growth” in weight, while obese children (above the 95th percentile on the growth chart) had postoperative weight gain that exacerbated pre-existing obesity. These outcomes were affected by factors such as baseline weight, age, and comorbid conditions. Conclusions: AT can improve the quality of life in underweight children, while overweight or obese children need careful monitoring and nutrition counseling postoperatively to mitigate excessive weight gain. More randomized trials are needed to better understand the metabolic and growth implications of AT and to refine clinical guidelines.
Research Progress on Alloying of High Chromium Cast Iron—Austenite Stabilizing Elements and Modifying Elements
Authors: Liu Shiqiu , Liang Li
Published: February 2025

High chromium cast iron (HCCI) is widely used in the manufacturing of equipment parts in the fields of mining, cement, electric power, metallurgy, the chemical industry, and paper-making because of its excellent wear and corrosion resistance. Although the microstructure and properties of HCCI can be modified by controlling the casting and heat treatment process, alloying is still the most basic and important method to improve the properties of HCCI. There are about 14 common alloying elements in HCCI, among which nickel, copper, and manganese are typical austenite stabilizing elements, which can increase austenite content and matrix electrode potential. The addition of elements such as silicon, nitrogen, boron, and rare earth (RE) is often small, but it has a significant effect on tailoring the microstructure, thereby improving wear resistance and impact toughness. It was thought that after years of development, the research on the role of the above elements in HCCI was relatively complete, but in the past 5 to 10 years, there has been a lot of new research progress. Moreover, the current development situation of HCCI is still relatively extensive, and there are still many problems regarding the alloying of HCCI to be further studied and solved. In this paper, the research results of austenitic stabilizing elements and modifying elements in HCCI are reviewed. The existing forms, distribution law of these elements in HCCI, and their effects on the microstructure, hardness, wear resistance, and corrosion resistance of HCCI are summarized. Combined with the current research situation, the future research and development direction of HCCI alloying is prospected.
In Situ Observation of Redox Dynamics and Surface Restructuring on Pt/CeO2 Catalysts
Authors: Li Yuye , Cao Jianyu , Zhang Zhongshi , Xia Jing , Meng Xiangmin
Published: February 2025

Heterogeneous catalysis has significant applications in energy conversion, chemical production, and environmental treatment. Among them, the supported catalyst Pt/CeO2 has attracted much attention due to its high catalytic activity and stability. While the particle size of the catalyst strongly influences its performance, the dynamic behavior and the underlying mechanism of the particle size effect under realistic reactions have not been fully clarified. Using in situ transmission electron microscopy and mass spectrometry, we systematically investigated the size-dependent surface restructuring of Pt nanoparticles supported on CeO2 in high-temperature redox environments. Larger Pt nanoparticles exhibited significant surface fluctuations during oxidation, which could be reconstructed under reducing conditions, with a slight rotation after the reaction cycle. In contrast, smaller Pt particles demonstrated greater stability, maintaining a constant size after the reaction while their surface structures continuously restructured into low-index crystal planes during oxidation. Mass spectrometry revealed water production during the catalytic process, highlighting a correlation between surface restructuring and reactivity. These findings advance the understanding of redox dynamics in noble metal catalysts and provide a theoretical basis for the design of more efficient and stable catalytic systems.
Information and Knowledge Diffusion Dynamics in Complex Networks with Independent Spreaders
Authors: Zhuang Yan , Li Weihua , Liu Yang
Published: February 2025

Information and knowledge diffusion are important dynamical processes in complex social systems, in which the underlying topology of interactions among individuals is often modeled as networks. Recent studies have examined various information diffusion scenarios primarily focusing on the dynamics within one network; yet, relatively little scholarly attention has been paid to possible interactions among individuals beyond the focal network. Here, in this study, we account for this phenomenon by modeling the information diffusion dynamics with the involvement of independent spreaders in a susceptible–exposed–infectious–recovered contagion process. Independent spreaders receive information using latent information transmission pathways without following the links in the focal network and can spread the information to remote areas of the network not well connected to the major components. We derive the mathematics of the critical epidemic thresholds on homogeneous and heterogeneous networks as a function of the infectious rate, exposure rate, recovery rate and the activeness of independent spreaders. We present simulation results on Small World and Scale-Free complex networks, and real-world social networks of Facebook artists and physicist collaborations. The result shows that the extent to which information or knowledge can spread might be more extensive than we can explain in terms of link contagion only. In addition, these results also help to explain how the activeness of independent spreaders can affect the diffusion process of information and knowledge in complex networks, which may have implications for studies exploring other dynamical processes.
A Brief Review of Multi-Physics Coupling Research on Hydroelectric Generators
Authors: Zhang Jiwen , Huang Xingxing , Wang Zhengwei
Published: February 2025

Hydropower, with its high degree of flexibility, plays an important role in the transformation of the global energy mix. Generators are the core component of the hydropower units; their performance directly affects the efficiency and reliability of the hydroelectric units. The dynamic characteristics of a generator during operation are usually the result of the coupling and interaction of multiple physical fields. Therefore, the interactions among electromagnetic, thermal, structural, and fluid fields inside hydroelectric generators have become of great concern. This paper briefly reviews the hydroelectric generator multi-physics coupling investigations, which include research conducted through field measurements, theoretical analysis, and numerical simulations. The review covers electromagnetic vibrations of generators under the influence of electromagnetic and structural fields, heat generation of generators under the influence of electromagnetic and thermal fields, ventilation and heat dissipation of generators under the influence of flow and thermal fields, and physical field changes of generators under the influence of electromechanical signals. The review also highlights unresolved issues in the field of hydropower that could benefit from fundamental research using a multi-physics coupling approach.
Design and Implementation of a DC–DC Resonant LLC Converter for Electric Vehicle Fast Chargers
Authors: Rocha Joao , Amin Saghir , Coelho Sergio , Rego Gonçalo , Afonso Joao L. , Monteiro Vitor
Published: February 2025

This article presents the design and implementation of a DC–DC power converter for application in electric vehicle (EV) fast-charging systems. The prototype is of the resonant LLC type and consists of a high-power transformer operating at high frequency, which is an essential feature for the adequate behavior of the EV fast-charging system as a whole. As demonstrated throughout the article, by using this converter topology as well as its specific operating modes, such as for achieving zero-voltage switching (ZVS) and zero-current switching (ZCS), it is possible to enhance efficiency by reducing conduction and switching losses as well as to increase power density. The details of the high-power high-frequency transformer (HFT), considering different designs, are presented and discussed. With the implemented laboratorial prototype fully developed with silicon carbide (SiC) power semiconductor devices, it was possible to demonstrate and validate the main features of the resonant LLC converter, including high efficiency, under distinct conditions of operation.
The Effects of Drought Timing on Height Growth and Leaf Phenology in Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur L.)
Authors: Bačurin Marko , Katičić Bogdan Ida , Sever Krunoslav , Bogdan Saša
Published: February 2025

This study examines the effects of drought timing on height growth and seasonal leaf phenology in pedunculate oak (Quercus robur L.) seedlings. Drought represents a significant threat to long-lived tree species, impacting growth, phenology, and recovery potential. This research aims to assess whether the timing of drought stress influences height growth and leaf phenology while also investigating possible compensatory mechanisms. The experiment involved five groups of seedlings: four exposed to drought at different periods during the 2022 and 2023 growing seasons, and one regularly irrigated control group. The key monitored parameters included height growth, spring flushing, autumn leaf senescence, and photosynthesis. Preliminary results revealed that late-spring and summer drought had a significant negative impact on height growth and delayed autumn senescence, whereas mid-spring drought allowed for compensatory growth. Spring leaf phenology remained largely unaffected by drought treatments. None of the drought-stressed plants showed increased photosynthesis during the recovery phase compared to the control. These findings highlight the critical role of drought timing in determining growth and phenological outcomes. Relatively late-season droughts were particularly detrimental, limiting recovery and resource allocation, while early-season droughts provided better opportunities for compensation. Further research on drought recovery mechanisms and nutrient interactions is needed to refine forestry management strategies under climate change.
Aspirin Eugenol Ester Alleviates Energy Metabolism Disorders by Reducing Oxidative Damage and Inflammation in the Livers of Broilers Under High-Stocking-Density Stress
Authors: Guo Caifang , Zhang Yi , Bai Dongying , Zhen Wenrui , Ma Penghui , Wang Ziwei , Zhao Xiaodie , Ma Xiqiang , Xie Xiaolin , Ito Koichi , Zhang Bingkun , Yang Yajun , Li Jianyong , Ma Yanbo
Published: February 2025

This study aimed to evaluate the effects of aspirin eugenol ester (AEE) on growth performance, oxidative liver damage, inflammation, and liver metabolomics in broilers under high-stocking-density (HSD) stress. A total of 360 broilers were divided into four groups: normal density (ND, 14/m2), high density (HD, 22/m2), ND-AEE (ND + 0.01% AEE), and HD-AEE (HD + 0.01% AEE). HSD decreased total antioxidant capacity, increased malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and elevated the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and microsomal prostaglandin E synthase-1 (mPGES-1) mRNA, which contributed to the reduced performance of broilers. Specifically, HSD caused abnormalities in linoleic acid metabolism, leading to elevated levels of Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and Leukotriene B4 (LTB4) synthesis, which aggravated inflammation, increased liver lipid levels, and impaired ATP production. AEE counteracted the decline in broiler production performance induced by HSD by enhancing total antioxidant capacity, reducing MDA levels, protecting the liver from oxidative damage, and maintaining mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation. AEE positively regulated the linoleic acid metabolism by promoting the synthesis of γ-linolenic acid and phosphatidylcholine, which reduced the synthesis of COX-2 and mPGES-1. AEE alleviated the metabolic imbalance caused by HSD stress and enhanced the efficiency of mitochondrial fatty acid oxidation, which reduced excess lipid accumulation in the liver and promoted ATP production. In summary, this study provides strong support for the dietary addition of AEE to alleviate liver oxidative damage, inflammation, and energy metabolism disorders caused by HSD stress.
Anastasis and Other Apoptosis-Related Prosurvival Pathways Call for a Paradigm Shift in Oncology: Significance of Deintensification in Treating Solid Tumors
Authors: Mirzayans Razmik
Published: February 2025

What is apoptosis? The Nomenclature Committee on Cell Death and numerous other pioneering cancer/p53 biologists use the terms “apoptosis” and “cell death” interchangeably, disregard the mind-numbing complexity and heterogeneity that exists within a tumor (intratumor heterogeneity), disregard the contribution of polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs; the root causes of therapy resistance and relapse) to this heterogeneity, and then propose novel apoptosis-stimulating anticancer strategies. This is shocking for the following three reasons. First, clinical studies reported since the 1990s have revealed that increased apoptosis in solid tumors is associated with increased tumor diversity and poor prognosis. Second, we have known for years that dying (apoptotic) cancer cells release a panel of secretions (e.g., via phoenix rising and other pathways) that promote metastatic outgrowth. Third, over a decade ago, it was demonstrated that cancer cells can recover from late stages of apoptosis (after the formation of apoptotic bodies) via the homeostatic process of anastasis, resulting in the emergence of aggressive variants. The cell surface expression of CD24 has recently been reported to be preferentially enriched in recovered (anastatic) cancer cells that exhibit tumorigenic properties. These and related discoveries outlined herein call for a paradigm shift in oncology to focus on strategies that minimize the occurrence of treacherous apoptosis and other tumor-repopulating events (e.g., therapy-induced cancer cell dormancy and reactivation). They also raise an intriguing question: is deregulated anastasis (rather than evasion of apoptosis) a hallmark of cancer?
Identification and Expression Analysis of the Soybean Serine Acetyltransferase (SAT) Gene Family Under Salt Stress
Authors: Fan Caiyun , Zou Hui , Zhang Miao , Jiang Yu , Liu Baohui , Sun Zhihui , Su Bohong
Published: February 2025

Serine acetyltransferase (SAT) is a critical enzyme in the sulfur-assimilation pathway of cysteine, playing an essential role in numerous physiological functions in plants, particularly in their response to environmental stresses. However, the structural characteristics of the soybean SAT gene family remain poorly understood. Members of the soybean SAT gene family were identified using the Hidden Markov Model approach. Bioinformatics tools, such as ExPASy, PlantCARE, MEME, and TBtools-II, were employed to examine the physicochemical properties, cis-regulatory elements, conserved motifs, gene structures, and chromosomal positions of the GmSAT genes. RT-qPCR was conducted to evaluate the expression profiles of GmSAT genes under NaCl-induced stress, identifying genes likely involved in the salt-stress response. A total of ten GmSAT genes were identified in the soybean genome and grouped into three subfamilies. Genes within each subfamily shared notable structural similarities and conserved motifs. Analysis of cis-regulatory elements revealed that the promoters of these genes contain several elements linked to plant growth and stress-related responses. Expression patterns of GmSAT genes varied across different soybean tissues, with GmSAT10 showing higher expression in roots, while GmSAT1 and GmSAT2 had lower expression in the same tissue. Following NaCl treatment, expression levels of seven GmSAT genes were significantly increased in the roots, indicating their potential involvement in the plant’s adaptation to salt stress. GmSAT genes appear to play crucial roles in soybean’s response to salt stress, offering insights that could aid in the development of salt-tolerant soybean varieties.
Comparative Genomic Analysis of the Poaceae Cytokinin Response Regulator RRB Gene Family and Functional Characterization of OsRRB5 in Drought Stress Tolerance in Rice
Authors: Chen Rujia , Huang Qianfeng , Xu Yanan , Wang Zhichao , Li Nian , Lu Yue , Tao Tianyun , Hua Yu , Wang Gaobo , Wang Shuting , Wang Hanyao , Zhou Yong , Xu Yang , Li Pengcheng , Xu Chenwu , Yang Zefeng
Published: February 2025

The cytokinin (CK) type B response regulator (RRB) gene is involved in the CK signaling pathway and performs a key function for mediating reactions to amounts of abiotic stresses. Nevertheless, the RRB gene family remains to be characterized in Poaceae (also known as Gramineae or grasses). Here, we performed a comprehensive analysis encompassing phylogenetic relationships, evolutionary pressures, and expression patterns of the RRB gene family in six Poaceae species, including rice, Panicum, Sorghum, Setaria, maize, and wheat. Phylogenetic tree and syntenic analyses revealed that the RRB genes were divided into seven orthologous gene clusters (OGCs), indicating that the common ancestor of these Poaceae species possessed at least seven RRB genes. Further analysis revealed that the evolution of the Poaceae RRB gene family was primarily driven by purifying selection. The expression pattern of rice OsRRB toward phytohormonal and abiotic stresses was also investigated. The findings revealed that several phytohormones, including cytokinin (CK), abscisic acid (ABA), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA), as well as abiotic factors such as drought and cold, significantly increased the expression levels of these genes. Importantly, haplotype analysis identified four crucial variation sites within the OsRRB5 genomic regions that may contribute to drought resistance in rice. Our findings lay the groundwork for further elucidating the biological function of OsRRB genes and provide a promising new target for developing stress-resistant rice varieties.