bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
RNA-FISH as a probe for heterogeneity at the cellular and subcellular levels in cyanobacteria
Authors: Mullineaux Conrad W. , Wang Kexin , Mahbub Moontaha
Published: December 2024

The abundance and subcellular location of specific mRNA molecules can give rich information on bacterial cell biology and gene expression at the single-cell level. We have been using RNA Fluorescent in situ Hybridization (RNA-FISH) to probe for specific mRNA species in both unicellular and filamentous cyanobacteria. We have shown that the technique can be used to reveal the locations of membrane protein production and can also reveal heterogeneity in gene expression at the single-cell level, including patterns of gene expression within the filaments of heterocyst-forming cyanobacteria as they differentiate in diazotrophic conditions. However, the background fluorescence from pigments in cyanobacteria can cause problems, as can the resistance of heterocysts to permeabilization. Here we discuss the potential and the pitfalls of RNA-FISH as applied to cyanobacteria. We compare the information that can be obtained from RNA-FISH with that available from other techniques for probing gene expression.
How democracies live: a review essay on Shadi Hamid’s The Problem of Democracy
Authors: Murtazashvili Ilia
Published: December 2024

Shadi Hamid’s The Problem of Democracy is the rare book that will be of immense value to both those who agree and disagree with its argument. This essay constructively considers Hamid’s arguments. It suggests that the case for democratic minimalism might be strengthened by considering the role of economic freedom as a source of democratic resilience.
The manipulation of top-down interpretation as one’s symptomatic body reduces the sense of body ownership
Authors: Yamamoto Kazuki , Nakao Takashi
Published: December 2024

Sense of body ownership has been studied using rubber hand illusion (RHI) and full-body illusion (FBI). It has recently become clear that consciously interpreting a fake body as one’s own in a top-down manner influences these body illusions. Furthermore, a study interestingly found that the influence of top-down interpretation was moderated by the degree of depersonalization, which was a symptom of a lack of sense of body ownership. In a case study on depersonalization, the top-down interpretation of one’s body was suggested to be a negative physical state that made it difficult to feel a sense of body ownership. However, this has not been examined. We examined the influence of negative top-down interpretation using an FBI procedure. A fake body was instructed to be viewed as a negative self-body (“view the virtual body’s back while regarding the virtual body as your own experiencing abdominal pain”). To examine the influence of a negative top-down interpretation, participants were instructed to interpret the body as their own (neutral self-body) as a control condition. We used skin conductance responses to a fearful stimulus presented after an illusion procedure to measure the degree of FBI experienced. Results indicated a significant difference in the skin conductance response between the synchronous and asynchronous presentation of visual-tactile stimuli in the control condition, which confirmed the occurrence of the illusion. However, the occurrence of the illusion was not confirmed when the participants were instructed to interpret the virtual body as their own in a negative physical state, and the degree of FBI was smaller than the control condition. Our finding that an FBI was inhibited by manipulation of the top-down interpretation suggested that it could be a factor that inhibited the creation of a sense of body ownership.
Lyrics do matter: how “coping songs” relate to well-being goals. The COVID pandemic case
Authors: Levy Adi , Granot Roni , Peres Renana
Published: December 2024

Introduction

In stressful times, people often listen to “coping songs” that help them reach emotional well-being goals. This paper is a first attempt to map the connection between an individual’s well-being goals and their chosen coping song.

Methods

We assembled a large-scale dataset of 2,804 coping songs chosen by individuals from 11 countries during COVID-19 lockdown. Individuals reported their well-being goals and also named their coping song. We applied an unsupervised topic-modeling approach to identify 15 self-emerging topics from the song lyrics, and connected them to well-being goals.

Results

We found significant association between certain lyrics’ topics and specific well-being goals. This association weakened for participants for which music is highly important. No significant patterns were found for the songs’ acoustic features.

Discussion

This paper posits that song lyrics, despite their brevity and presumed simplicity, can be meaningful for self-regulation of emotional states, and should receive more attention by researchers and streaming services alike.
Training system for converting current visual information to bird’s-eye view
Authors: Sumi Kaoru , Okuyama Ryo
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Effective decision-making in ball games requires the ability to convert positional information from a first-person perspective into a bird’s-eye view. To address this need, we developed a virtual reality (VR)-based training system designed to enhance spatial cognition.

Methods

Using a head-mounted virtual reality display, participants engaged in tasks where they tracked multiple moving objects in a virtual space and reproduced their positions from a bird’s-eye perspective. The system simulated game-like scenarios to systematically train this cognitive skill. Participants’ performance was assessed before and after the training.

Results

The experimental results revealed significant improvements in spatial accuracy and cognitive ability among participants after using the system. These enhancements were measured by their ability to accurately convert first-person positional data into a bird’s-eye perspective.

Discussion

The findings suggest that the VR-based system effectively enhances perceptual-cognitive skills critical for team sports and other tasks requiring advanced spatial awareness. This training method holds potential for broader applications in spatially demanding activities.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices among oncologists regarding the implementation of DRGs payment system: a cross-sectional study in Beijing
Authors: Xu Changdan , Zhang Hong , Yin Shiquan
Published: December 2024

Background

The KAP survey evaluates health-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices through a structured questionnaire. By collecting qualitative and quantitative data, it measures the current situation, tests hypotheses, and provides insights for enhancing health behaviors and education. In 2019, the National Health Security Administration (NHSA) initiated DRG payment reforms. This study aims to improve the quality of health insurance and policy implementation by assessing physicians' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the DRG system.

Method

This study was a cross-sectional study designed with a questionnaire through simple random sampling method, and respondents were the doctors in the clinical departments of the sampled hospitals. The questionnaire included basic information, knowledge about DRGs, attitude toward DRGs and practice of implementation. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistical analysis, correlation, path analysis and generalized linear model.

Result

A total of 210 questionnaires were included. The majority of respondents aware that their healthcare organizations had already begun to implement the policy. With a mean score of 7.67 for knowledge, respondents basically had a good level of knowledge of DRGs. The mean attitude score of the respondents was 30.20, which was lower than the “positive attitude” criterion, and their main concerns were about matters other than treatment. Knowledge scores were significantly correlated with attitude scores (P < 0.001), whereas attitude scores were not associated with practice scores. Path analysis and generalized linear modeling indicate that knowledge effectively influences attitudes, whereas attitudes do not have an apparent impact on practice.

Conclusion

Oncologists' understanding of DRGs needs to be improved, and their knowledge and attitudes have not yet translated into demonstrable positive practice behaviors. This gap underscores the need for knowledge training and effective incentives.
Licking Their Forearms Keeps Kangaroos Cool
Authors: Frijns Sabine , Narayan Edward
Published: December 2024

When it is hot, we sweat. By doing this, we create a little wet layer on our skin. When this wet layer evaporates, it absorbs our body heat and carries it away as it evaporates. By spreading saliva on their forearms, Australia’s Red kangaroo creates a similar wet layer on their forearms. The skin on their forearms is very thin, which makes it easy for the body heat to dissipate into the environment. Moreover, right beneath their forearms lies a large venous network where blood circulation is high, which allows a large amount of heat to build up in this area and also be gotten rid off. Licking their forearms is an important adaptation of the Red kangaroo to the hot and arid environment they live in. Especially now that the Red kangaroo’s habitat is heating up due to climate change, being adapted is important for these marsupials to survive.
Analyzing exercise-to-rest ratios in U19 American football European championship: implications for team success and injury prevention
Authors: Prioul Valentin , Slawinski Jean , Guersent Steeve , Le Monnier Laure , Goeb Vincent , Krim Florent , Lopes Philippe , Leprêtre Pierre-Marie
Published: December 2024

Background

The teams' collective playing strategy rather than the individual player attitudes could explain event outcome and risk of injuries.

Objective

The study aimed to examine the playing style of European teams and compare it to the USA.

Method

12 matches from the U19 European championship of American Football were analysed. We characterized each team by their running-passing activities ratio during the offensive phase: running (RUN), passing (PASS), or balanced (BAL).

Results

The BAL style of play accurately described 75% of European teams (n = 6). The remaining two national teams adopted either the RUN or PASS style of play. This finding is similar to what was observed in NCAA Division IA. All RUN style teams had a higher percentage of rushing plays (80.7% ± 9.7%) compared to PASS (33.0% ± 14.7%) and BAL teams (46.0 ± 0.8%) (p < 0.05). The mean playing time for RUN and PASS teams was longer than the average duration of plays for BAL teams (p < 0.05). The mean duration of plays ranged from 5.3 ± 1.9 to 5.7 ± 2.1 s, with a significant style of play effect (p < 0.05). Rest duration for BAL teams (46.7 ± 44.1 s) was shorter than that of RUN (55.9 ± 34.7 s) and PASS (54.5 ± 32.9 s) teams (p < 0.05). Finally, the European top final team was the team that was able to shift their game style during the tournament and presented a low coefficient of variation in offensive plays per drive.

Conclusion

Based on the running-passing activities ratio, the video match analysis can provide a foundation for the strength and conditioning program for long-term athlete development and injury prevention.
A cross-sectional survey of farmer reported prevalence and farm management practices associated with neonatal infectious arthritis (“joint ill”) in lambs, on UK sheep farms
Authors: Jackson L. P. , Higgins H. M. , Duncan J. S.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Neonatal infectious arthritis (NIA) is a bacterial disease of lambs in the first month of life. NIA is associated with poor animal welfare, economic losses, and prophylactic antibiotic use. Farmers report problems with NIA despite following current guidance on prevention. The aim of this study was to estimate NIA UK incidence, describe current management practices for NIA control, and farm management risk factors associated with NIA.

Methods

A cross-sectional, online questionnaire of UK sheep farmers was carried out between June and October 2020. Descriptive statistics, and univariable and multivariable risk factor analysis was undertaken.

Results

Of the 322 respondents, 64% reported joint ill cases in the 2020 lambing period. The median within flock incidence was 1.4% (IQR 0.8–2.6%; 95% CI, 1.2–1.6). Seventeen percent of farmers estimated their current treatment efficacy for NIA was less than 50%. Eleven percent of farmers used prophylactic or metaphylactic antibiotics in all lambs to prevent NIA occurrence. Across all flocks, risk factor associated with NIA occurrence was the number of ewes lambed (301–600; OR, 3.9; 95% CI 1.9–8.0. >600; OR, 13.7; 95% CI, 5.4–34.4). In outdoor lambing flocks, increased risk of joint ill was associated with the number of ewes lambed (>600 ewes; OR, 34.7; 95% CI, 6.6–182.7), not providing outdoor shelter to lambing ewes (OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.2–7.8), and not cleaning ear tags (OR, 5.7; 95% CI, 1.5–21.4). Using antibiotics as a preventative measure was associated with a reduced risk of joint ill (OR, 0.1; 95% CI, 0.01–0.4). In indoor lambing flocks, increased risk of joint ill was associated with upland flocks (OR, 3.0; 95% CI, 1.3–6.8), number of lambs born alive (501–1,000; OR, 4.1; 95% CI, 1.6–10.7. >1,000; OR, 14.0; 95% CI, 4.0–48.9), and not washing hands (OR, 3.6; 95% CI, 1.2–10.6).

Conclusion

NIA was reported in indoor and outdoor lambing flocks. A pattern of risk factors associated with increasing intensity of lambing was observed. Prophylactic antibiotic use was associated with a reduced risk of NIA in outdoor flocks, however, NIA still occurred in flocks where this was practiced. More veterinary involvement is advised in the diagnosis, treatment protocols, and prevention of NIA.
Measuring the Nexus Between Information Literacy, Creativity, and Lifelong Learning in Media Professionals
Authors: Shaukat Rozeen , Naveed Muhammad Asif , Asghar Muhammad Zaheer , Järvenoja Hanna , Hassan Muhammad Uzair Ul
Published: December 2024

Information literacy (IL) plays an essential role in digital inclusion as it enables people to make use of the information available in multiple mediums on the Internet through digital devices. This study intends to examine the effect of IL on lifelong learning (LL) through the mediating role of creativity among news reporters in Pakistan using a quantitative research approach. The survey was conducted using an online questionnaire from the registered news reporters of press clubs in the four provinces and the federal territory of Islamabad, Pakistan. A total of 758 responses were received and analyzed using PLS-SEM. The results indicated that the IL of news reporters positively influenced their lifelong learning through both direct and indirect pathways. Furthermore, the nexus between IL and LL was influenced by the mediation of creativity. These findings have practical implications for academia and the media industry, highlighting the invaluable role of IL in enhancing lifelong learning and creativity to attain a sustainable competitive advantage. These results may inform educational programs for journalism students and existing journalists to impart IL skills. This research contributes to the available literature on workplace IL, especially in the context of media professionals.
Design and Preliminary Evaluation of a Precision Cylindrical Air-Assisted Drill Sowing Device for Rapeseed, Wheat, and Rice
Authors: Albasheer Alfarog H. , Liao Qingxi , Wang Lei , Abdallah Anas Dafaallah , Lin Jianxin
Published: December 2024

To address challenges in seed feeding stability and seeding uniformity in agricultural practices, this study aimed to introduce a cylindrical air-assisted drill sowing device (CADSD) designed for rapeseed, wheat, and rice (RWR). The device features a prototype hill-feeding mechanism that addresses problems related to seed feeding, airflow disruptions, and seed–wall collisions. Comprehensive bench tests, Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations, and preliminary field experiments were conducted to evaluate the seed-feeding stability characteristics and optimize the structural parameters of the air-assisted drill sowing system, enhancing seeding uniformity and operational efficiency. The optimal operating speed range is between 4 and 5 km/h. When the seed feeding speed is 30 to 38 r/min, the coefficient of variation of the seed supply rate stability is less than 0.55%, and the relative error between the theoretical and the experimental actual values of the RWR supply rate regression model is less than 2%, further supporting the effectiveness of the device. A preliminary field test revealed a seeding uniformity coefficient of variation (CV) of 3.44% and an emergence rate of 88%, closely aligning with the desired metrics. The CADSD effectively sows multiple crop types with improved precision and uniformity, handling diverse seed types and sizes without requiring equipment modifications, highlighting its innovative impact on agricultural technology in the precise seeding of RWR.
Exploring Relationship Between Immunocompetence, HPA Axis Functioning and Performances of Preweaning Dairy Calves
Authors: Cotticelli Alessio , Bifulco Giovanna , Giombolini Matilde , Pividori Isabella , Calanni Macchio Alfio , Neglia Gianluca , Corazzin Mirco , Prandi Alberto , Peric Tanja
Published: December 2024

Cortisol and DHEA(S) are markers of allostatic load and resilience; as such, they may be added to the definition of performance measures alongside immunocompetence. We aimed at studying the potential carryover effects of management practices on growth performances and the interrelationship between the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, immunocompetence and performances during the preweaning period in dairy calves. This study consisted of first a retrospective cohort study and second a prospective study. Calves had their growth performances and disease occurrence recorded, and their hair steroids (T1 at 20.03 ± 0.39 and T2 at 50.83 ± 0.41 days from birth) and plasmatic and colostral immunoglobulin G (IgG) was measured by immunoassays. The occurrence of preweaning diseases and the duration of individual housing negatively correlated to body weight (BW) at 60 days and the hair cortisol-to-DHEA(S) ratio (HC/HDHEA(S)) (T2) was negatively correlated to the daily weight gain (DWG) (−0.36; p < 0.05), plasmatic IgG (plaIgG) and the apparent efficiency of absorption (AEA) (−0.41; p < 0.01). Our results confirmed that the occurrence of diseases during the preweaning period and individual housing duration are pivotal for calves’ growth. This prospective study highlighted a detrimental effect of allostatic load on immunocompetence and described a link between resilience and growth performances.
Study on the Impact of Coastline Changes on Tidal Range and Tidal Prism in the Southwest of Laizhou Bay
Authors: Wang Jianping , Zhu Jinlong , Sun Wei , Zhang Shu , Yuan Zhonghao , Wang Xiuxia , Zhu Mingming , Han Kaili
Published: December 2024

Coastal development such as sea reclamation, port terminals, and breakwater construction has significantly altered the southwestern coastline of Laizhou Bay, changing the regional hydrodynamic environment. To explore how tidal range and tidal prism respond to these 20-year coastline changes, this paper selected the southwestern coastline data of Laizhou Bay in 2000 and 2020, established a 2-D tidal model, and studied the impact of the 20-year coastline changes on tidal range and tidal prism in this sea area. The results show that during the 20 years from 2000 to 2020, most of the bay area’s coastline was in a growth trend of advancing toward the sea, 85.3% of the cross-sections were growth areas, 11.9% were dynamic stable areas, and there was almost no erosion area. Affected by reclamation activities, the area of the southwestern part of Laizhou Bay decreased by 11.66%, the coastline increased by 63.27%, and the center of mass moved 2.22 km to the northeast. The reclamation of tidal flats caused the potential energy of tidal waves in the bay to increase, the maximum possible tidal wave in the southwestern part of the bay showed an increasing trend, and the bay top between Weifang Port and Guangli Port increased particularly significantly, with a maximum increase of 22 cm. The spring tide period, neap tide period and average tidal prism in the southwestern bay decreased by 4.79%, 3.29%, and 4.24%, respectively. The reclamation of tidal flats is the main reason for the decrease in tidal prism in the southwestern part of the bay.
Single-Sheet Separation from Paper Stack Based on Friction Uncertainty Using High-Speed Robot Hand
Authors: Senoo Taku , Konno Atsushi , Yamana Yuuki , Ishii Idaku
Published: December 2024

The successful separation of a single sheet from a stack of paper is considered a paper-handling goal when using a robot hand. Under the condition of uncertain friction coefficients, a stochastic algorithm introducing randomness is formulated, which converges a paper stack to a state of single-sheet separation through the repetition of simple robot operations. This formulation is based on the proposed motion strategy for a robotic hand, which introduces a state of a partially separated paper bundle to temporarily allow the simultaneous separation of multiple sheets and a return operation to return the paper to the original paper bundle. The experimental results indicate that a single sheet can be completely separated from a vertically standing stack of business-card-sized papers by shifting the paper in a high-speed translational movement using two fingers of the robot hand that grasp the paper from both sides.
Insight into the Use of Brewers’ Spent Grain as a Low-Carbon Aggregate in Building Materials
Authors: El Haddaji Badreddine , Benzaama Mohammed-Hichem , Quiertant Marc , El Mendili Yassine
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the use of Brewers’ Spent Grains (BSGs) as a sustainable biocomposite building materials, using cornstarch as a biopolymer binder. BSG aggregates are compared with hemp shives, a conventional aggregate known for its thermal properties. Starch is employed as a natural binder in three different formulations to further reduce the carbon footprint of the building material. Considering aggregates, the first formulation contains only BSGs, the second consists of half BSGs and half hemp shives, and the third uses only hemp shives. In addition, morphological analysis using Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) is conducted to examine the microstructure and porosity of the raw BSG and hemp shives. Hygrothermal properties are measured using Heat Flow Meter (HFM) and Dynamic Vapor Sorption (DVS) techniques, while mechanical properties are also assessed. Results indicate that the thermal conductivity of the BSG formulation (0.131 W/(m·K)) is double that of the hemp shives formulation (0.067 W/(m·K)), whereas the mixed BSG/hemp shives formulation exhibits a thermal conductivity of 0.106 W/(m·K). However, DVS measurements reveal better hygrothermal properties for the BSG formulation compared to the hemp shives formulation. Lastly, mechanical properties are found to be nearly equivalent across the three formulations. These findings suggest that BSG waste has potential as a viable material for use in construction. Further work on formulation optimization and durability is necessary to fully realize the potential of this waste in promoting a circular economy within the building materials industry.
Role of en-APTAS Membranes in Enhancing the NO2 Gas-Sensing Characteristics of Carbon Nanotube/ZnO-Based Memristor Gas Sensors
Authors: Ahmad Ibtisam , Ali Mohsin , Kim Hee-Dong
Published: December 2024

NO2 is a toxic gas that can damage the lungs with prolonged exposure and contribute to health conditions, such as asthma in children. Detecting NO2 is therefore crucial for maintaining a healthy environment. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) are promising materials for NO2 gas sensors due to their excellent electronic properties and high adsorption energy for NO2 molecules. However, conventional CNT-based sensors face challenges, including low responses at room temperature (RT) and slow recovery times. This study introduces a memristor-based NO2 gas sensor comprising CNT/ZnO/ITO decorated with an N-[3-(trimethoxysilyl)propyl] ethylene diamine (en-APTAS) membrane to enhance room-temperature-sensing performance. The amine groups in the en-APTAS membrane increase adsorption sites and boost charge transfer interactions between NO2 and the CNT surface. This modification improves the sensor’s response by 60% at 20 ppm compared to the undecorated counterpart. However, the high adsorption energy of NO2 slows the recovery process. To overcome this, a pulse-recovery method was implemented, applying a −2.5 V pulse with a 1 ms width, enabling the sensor to return to its baseline within 1 ms. These findings highlight the effectiveness of en-APTAS decoration and pulse-recovery techniques in improving the sensitivity, response, and recovery of CNT-based gas sensors.
Neuroimaging Links Between Heart Failure and Depression—A Narrative Review
Authors: Deste Giacomo , Lombardi Carlo , Gasparotti Roberto , Vita Antonio , Corbo Daniele
Published: December 2024

Background and objective: It is commonly known that there is a connection between heart disease and depression symptoms. Compared to heart failure patients without concurrent depression, those with depressive symptoms are more likely to have longer hospital stays and more outpatient visits following discharge. Although the exact neurobiological mechanisms causing the correlation between heart disease and depression symptoms are unknown, it is thought that vascular abnormalities may be a major factor. The purpose of this review was to examine the connection between brain networks linked to depression and heart failure (HF). Methods: PRISMA guidelines were followed. We included studies that reported both heart failure as well as depression and neuroimaging. Results: We identified 159 papers, but only 12 articles were included. Our findings show that reduced cerebral blood flow (CBF) following HF, along with other contributing factors such as chronic inflammation and neurovascular dysfunction, can lead to significant brain tissue damage and disruption of neural networks. The resulting alteration in the brain increases the risk of developing depression, as the neural circuits responsible for emotional regulation become compromised. Conclusions: Individuals with heart failure (HF) exhibit reduced regional cerebral blood flow across multiple brain areas, many of which are critical for mood regulation and are commonly implicated in depression, such as the left frontal cortex and right hippocampus.
Effects of Extremely Low-Frequency Electromagnetic Field Treatment on ASD Symptoms in Children: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pietramala Kierra , Greco Alessandro , Garoli Alberto , Roblin Danielle
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are neurodevelopmental disorders marked by challenges in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors. People with ASD may exhibit repetitive behaviors, unique ways of learning, and different ways of interacting with the world. The term “spectrum” reflects the wide variability in how ASD manifests in individuals, including differences in abilities, symptoms, and support needs, and conditions characterized by difficulties in social interactions, communication, restricted interests, and repetitive behaviors. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the pathophysiology, with increased pro-inflammatory cytokines in cerebrospinal fluid. Previous studies with transcranial magnetic stimulation have shown promising results, suggesting nervous system susceptibility to electromagnetic fields, with evidence indicating that extremely low-frequency electromagnetic field (ELF-EMF) treatment may modulate inflammatory responses through multiple pathways, including the reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-6 and TNF-α, and the enhancement of anti-inflammatory mediators. Methods: This pilot study included 20 children (ages 2–13) with a confirmed diagnosis of ASD. A 15-week protocol involved ELF-EMF treatments using the SEQEX device, with specific day and night programs. Assessment was conducted through standardized pre- and post-treatment tests: Achenbach Child Behavior Checklist, Peabody Picture Vocabulary Test-4, Expressive One Word Picture Vocabulary Test-4, and Conner’s 3GI. Results: Statistically significant improvements were observed in receptive language (PPVT-4: from 74.07 to 90.40, p = 0.002) and expressive language (EOWPVT-4: from 84.17 to 90.50, p = 0.041). Notable reductions, with statistical significance, were found in externalizing problems across both age groups (1.5–5 years: p = 0.028; 6–18 years: p = 0.027), with particular improvement in attention and behavioral problems. The results were observed over a short period of 15 weeks, therefore excluding the possibility of coincidental age-related gains, that would typically occur during a normal developmental timeframe. Parent evaluations showed significant reduction in ASD symptoms, particularly in the 1.5–5 years group (p = 0.046). Conclusions: ELF-EMF treatment demonstrated a high safety profile and efficacy in mitigating ASD-related symptoms. The observed improvements suggest both direct effects on central and autonomic nervous systems and indirect effects through inflammatory response modulation. Further studies are needed to confirm these promising results through broader demographics and randomized control designs.
Design and Analysis of a Novel Prefabricated Foundation for Substation Buildings
Authors: Tian Weicong , Li Zhan , Wan Hongxia
Published: December 2024

In recent years, prefabricated components have been widely used in the construction of substation superstructures, while cast-in-place foundations remain the primary method for substation foundations. This paper presents and evaluates a novel prefabricated foundation design aimed at enhancing construction efficiency and load-bearing performance. The foundation features a modular design, with each module weighing only half that of a cast-in-place foundation of the same size, significantly improving construction convenience and transportation efficiency. The load-bearing performance of the foundation was validated through static load tests and finite element modeling. The results indicate that the foundation demonstrates excellent ductility, with flexural failure as the primary mode, characterized by multiple cracks across the mid-span and complete yielding of longitudinal reinforcing steels. Further parametric analysis shows that increasing the plate thickness ratio (λ) improves the ultimate bearing capacity of the foundation significantly. Additionally, enlarging the cross-sectional size of the shear key or increasing the strength of the wet joint material enhances overall structural synergy, reduces local deformation, and improves load distribution efficiency. Overall, the sensitivity order of factors influencing the bearing capacity of the new prefabricated foundation is plate thickness ratio (λ) > wet joint strength > shear key cross-sectional size.
A Novel Triplet of Alisertib Plus Ibrutinib Plus Rituximab Is Active in Mantle Cell Lymphoma
Authors: Subramani Baskaran , Conway Patrick J. , Al-Khinji Aisha , Zhang Kun , Pandey Ritu , Mahadevan Daruka
Published: December 2024

Background/Objectives: Aurora (AK) A/B are oncogenic mitotic kinases that when over-expressed are poor prognostic markers in mantle cell lymphoma (MCL). Methods and Results: Alisertib, an AK-A inhibitor, has anti-tumor activity in relapsed/refractory (r/r) MCL patients. We evaluated alisertib plus ibrutinib in MCL to abrogate ibrutinib resistance. Alisertib plus ibrutinib was therapeutically synergistic on both Granta-519 insensitive to ibrutinib and JeKo-1 cells sensitive to ibrutinib. Alisertib decreased PI-3K, BTK, p38, HCK, and RSK kinases, indicative of its multipotent effect on cellular proliferation and growth. A mouse xenograft model of Granta-519 demonstrated that alisertib plus ibrutinib had a comparable anti-tumor response to ibrutinib plus rituximab. However, alisertib plus ibrutinib plus rituximab demonstrated significantly stronger tumor growth inhibition than the doublets. Conclusions: Both double and triple combinations showed enhanced survival versus ibrutinib alone. Ibrutinib insensitivity can be disrupted by alisertib plus ibrutinib in MCL.
A Proteomic Examination of Plasma Extracellular Vesicles Across Colorectal Cancer Stages Uncovers Biological Insights That Potentially Improve Prognosis
Authors: Mohamedali Abidali , Heng Benjamin , Amirkhani Ardeshir , Krishnamurthy Shivani , Cantor David , Lee Peter Jun Myung , Shin Joo-Shik , Solomon Michael , Guillemin Gilles J. , Baker Mark S. , Ahn Seong Beom
Published: December 2024

Background: Recent advancements in understanding plasma extracellular vesicles (EVs) and their role in disease biology have provided additional unique insights into the study of Colorectal Cancer (CRC). Methods: This study aimed to gain biological insights into disease progression from plasma-derived extracellular vesicle proteomic profiles of 80 patients (20 from each CRC stage I–IV) against 20 healthy age- and sex-matched controls using a high-resolution SWATH-MS proteomics with a reproducible centrifugation method to isolate plasma EVs. Results: We applied the High-Stringency Human Proteome Project (HPP) guidelines for SWATH-MS analysis, which refined our initial EV protein identification from 1362 proteins (10,993 peptides) to a more reliable and confident subset of 853 proteins (6231 peptides). In early-stage CRC, we identified 11 plasma EV proteins with differential expression between patients and healthy controls (three up-regulated and eight down-regulated), many of which are involved in key cancer hallmarks. Additionally, within the same cohort, we analysed EV proteins associated with tumour recurrence to identify potential prognostic indicators for CRC. A subset of up-regulated proteins associated with extracellular vesicle formation (GDI1, NSF, and TMED9) and the down-regulation of TSG101 suggest that micro-metastasis may have occurred earlier than previously anticipated. Discussion: By employing stringent proteomic analysis and a robust SWATH-MS approach, we identified dysregulated EV proteins that potentially indicate early-stage CRC and predict recurrence risk, including proteins involved in metabolism, cytoskeletal remodelling, and immune response. While our findings underline discrepancies with other studies due to differing isolation and stringency parameters, they provide valuable insights into the complexity of the EV proteome, emphasising the need for standardised protocols and larger, well-controlled studies to validate potential biomarkers.
At-Home Care Program for Acute Myeloid Leukemia Induction Phase in Patients Treated with Venetoclax-Based Low-Intensity Regimens
Authors: Martínez-Roca Alexandra , Jiménez-Vicente Carlos , Merchán Beatriz , Castaño-Diez Sandra , Zugasti Inés , Brillembourg Helena , Bataller Álex , Guijarro Francesca , Cortés-Bullich Albert , Trigueros Ana , Pérez-Valencia Amanda Isabel , Gallego Cristina , Ballestar Nuria , Rodríguez-Lobato Luis Gerardo , Carcelero Esther , Díaz-Beyá Marina , Esteve Jordi , Fernández-Avilés Francesc
Published: December 2024

Background: Even though venetoclax in combination with azacitidine (VenAza) is considered a low-intensity regimen, its patients present a high incidence of cytopenia and infections during the first courses, making the initial management a challenging phase. Methods: This difficulty in our center led to the establishment of an At-Home (AH) program for ramp-up and follow-up patients during the VenAza combination induction phase focused on therapy administration, patient and caregiver education, and management of adverse events (AEs). A total of 70 patients with newly diagnosed acute myeloid leukemia (ND-AML) or relapsed/refractory AML (R/R AML) were treated with VenAza from March 2019 to May 2022. We compared outcomes between patients managed with a hospital-based (inpatient) approach and those managed through the AH program. Results: Despite most patients experiencing grade 3–4 cytopenias (96.9%), the incidence of serious infections and other AEs was comparable between both groups, with no significant difference in febrile neutropenia (42.3% vs. 27.8%, p = 0.38). Overall, the AH cohort demonstrated a significantly lower hospital readmission rate after ramp-up (29.5% vs. 84.6%, p = 0.001). Moreover, the inpatient cohort’s admission days were longer than in the AH cohort (13 vs. 8, p = 0.28). Conclusions: AH management was feasible and safe, leading to better resource use, enhanced patient comfort, and improved treatment compliance. The potential of AH programs for managing low-intensity chemotherapy regimens can reduce hospital admissions and subsequently improve patient and caregiver well-being.
Effects of a Microbial Vetch Fertilizer on the Disease Resistance, Yield, and Quality of Sweet Waxy Corn
Authors: Meng Xiangtao , Li Zhuangzhuang , Wu Han , Duan Haiming , Yu Li , Zhou Cheng , Wang Meng , Zhang Kun , Hu Chaofan , Su Zhangjun , Yu Haibing
Published: December 2024

This study aimed to address stalk rot in sweet waxy corn while simultaneously decreasing the chemical fertilizer usage without affecting the crop yield. The investigators implemented an innovative approach that integrated disease management with environmentally sustainable agricultural practices by developing an enhanced microbial vetch fertilizer (MVF). This novel fertilizer was produced through the fermentation of vetch (Vicia villosa var. glabrescens) straw utilizing beneficial strains of Trichoderma and Bacillus species. In vitro experiments demonstrated that the antifungal microbial strains effectively inhibited Fusarium graminearum growth by 46.9% to 64.0%. Subsequent pot trials revealed that MVF application significantly reduced the incidence of stalk rot, resulting in a disease index of 21.2, which was equivalent to control efficacy of 60.2%. Field experiments further demonstrated that applying MVF at 5250 kg·ha−1 produced optimal ear and grain weights, with the peak grain yield reaching 11,259.7 kg·ha−1 when combined with 90% of the standard chemical fertilizer regime. This study contributes to the advancement of environmentally sustainable agricultural practices by effectively managing corn stalk rot and improving productivity by using eco-friendly techniques. The MVF shows potential as a biological alternative to boost sweet corn yields and enhance the protective enzyme activity. This study advances the field of sustainable agriculture by introducing eco-friendly techniques that effectively combat corn stalk rot and enhance crop yields.
Heuristic Optimization-Based Trajectory Planning for UAV Swarms in Urban Target Strike Operations
Authors: Fei Chen , Lu Zhuo , Jiang Weiwei
Published: December 2024

Unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) swarms have shown substantial potential to enhance operational efficiency and reduce strike costs, presenting extensive applications in modern urban warfare. However, achieving effective strike performance in complex urban environments remains challenging, particularly when considering three-dimensional obstacles and threat zones simultaneously, which can significantly degrade strike effectiveness. To address this challenge, this paper proposes a target strike strategy using the Electric Eel Foraging Optimization (EEFO) algorithm, a heuristic optimization method designed to ensure precise strikes in complex environments. The problem is formulated with specific constraints, modeling each UAV as an electric eel with random initial positions and velocities. This algorithm simulates the interaction, resting, hunting, and migrating behaviors of electric eels during their foraging process. During the interaction phase, UAVs engage in global exploration through communication and environmental sensing. The resting phase allows UAVs to temporarily hold their positions, preventing premature convergence to local optima. In the hunting phase, the swarm identifies and pursues optimal paths, while in the migration phase the UAVs transition to target areas, avoiding threats and obstacles while seeking safer routes. The algorithm enhances overall optimization capabilities by sharing information among surrounding individuals and promoting group cooperation, effectively planning flight paths and avoiding obstacles for precise strikes. The MATLAB(R2024b) simulation platform is used to compare the performance of five optimization algorithms—SO, SCA, WOA, MFO, and HHO—against the proposed Electric Eel Foraging Optimization (EEFO) algorithm for UAV swarm target strike missions. The experimental results demonstrate that in a sparse undefended environment, EEFO outperforms the other algorithms in terms of trajectory planning efficiency, stability, and minimal trajectory costs while also exhibiting faster convergence rates. In densely defended environments, EEFO not only achieves the optimal target strike trajectory but also shows superior performance in terms of convergence trends and trajectory cost reduction, along with the highest mission completion rate. These results highlight the effectiveness of EEFO in both sparse and complex defended scenarios, making it a promising approach for UAV swarm operations in dynamic urban environments.
Cloud–Edge Collaborative Strategy for Insulator Recognition and Defect Detection Model Using Drone-Captured Images
Authors: Gao Pengpei , Wu Tingting , Song Chunhe
Published: December 2024

In modern power systems, drones are increasingly being utilized to monitor the condition of critical power equipment. However, limited computing capacity is a key factor limiting the application of drones. To optimize the computational load on drones, this paper proposes a cloud–edge collaborative intelligence strategy to be applied to insulator identification and defect detection scenarios. Firstly, a low-computation method deployed at the edge is proposed for determing whether insulator strings are present in the captured images. Secondly, an efficient insulator recognition and defect detection method, I-YOLO (Insulator-YOLO), is proposed for cloud deployment. In the neck network, we integrate an I-ECA (Insulator-Enhanced Channel Attention) mechanism based on insulator characteristics to more comprehensively fuse features. In addition, we incorporated the insulator feature cross fusion network (I-FCFN) to enhance the detection of small-sized insulator defects. Experimental results demonstrate that the cloud–edge collaborative intelligence strategy performs exceptionally well in insulator-related tasks. The edge algorithm achieved an accuracy of 97.9% with only 0.7 G FLOPs, meeting the inspection requirements of drones. Meanwhile, the cloud model achieved a mAP50 of 96.2%, accurately detecting insulators and their defects.
EXIT Charts for Low-Density Algebra-Check Codes
Authors: Tang Zuo , Lei Jing , Huang Ying
Published: December 2024

This paper focuses on the Low-Density Algebra-Check (LDAC) code, a novel low-rate channel code derived from the Low-Density Parity-Check (LDPC) code with expanded algebra-check constraints. A method for optimizing LDAC code design using Extrinsic Information Transfer (EXIT) charts is presented. Firstly, an iterative decoding model for LDAC is established according to its structure, and a method for plotting EXIT curves of the algebra-check node decoder is proposed. Then, the performance of two types of algebra-check nodes under different conditions is analyzed via EXIT curves. Finally, a low-rate LDAC code with enhanced coding gain is constructed, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Transpiling Quantum Assembly Language Circuits to a Qudit Form
Authors: Drozhzhin Denis A. , Nikolaeva Anastasiia S. , Kiktenko Evgeniy O. , Fedorov Aleksey K.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we introduce the workflow for converting qubit circuits represented by Open Quantum Assembly format (OpenQASM, also known as QASM) into the qudit form for execution on qudit hardware and provide a method for translating qudit experiment results back into qubit results. We present the comparison of several qudit transpilation regimes, which differ in decomposition of multicontrolled gates: qubit as ordinary qubit transpilation and execution, qutrit with d=3 levels and single qubit in qudit, and ququart with d=4 levels and 2 qubits per ququart. We provide several examples of transpiling circuits for trapped ion qudit processors, which demonstrate potential advantages of qudits.
A Model and Quantitative Framework for Evaluating Iterative Steganography
Authors: Pery Marcin , Waszkowski Robert
Published: December 2024

This study presents a detailed characterization of iterative steganography, a unique class of information-hiding techniques, and proposes a formal mathematical model for their description. A novel quantitative measure, the Incremental Information Function (IIF), is introduced to evaluate the process of information gain in iterative steganographic methods. The IIF offers a comprehensive framework for analyzing the step-by-step process of embedding information into a cover medium, focusing on the cumulative effects of each iteration in the encoding and decoding cycles. The practical application and efficacy of the proposed method are demonstrated using detailed case studies in video steganography. These examples highlight the utility of the IIF in delineating the properties and characteristics of iterative steganographic techniques. The findings reveal that the IIF effectively captures the incremental nature of information embedding and serves as a valuable tool for assessing the robustness and capacity of steganographic systems. This research provides significant insights into the field of information hiding, particularly in the development and evaluation of advanced steganographic methods. The IIF emerges as an innovative and practical analytical tool for researchers, offering a quantitative approach to understanding and optimizing iterative steganographic techniques.
Behind the Scenes of Adaptive Learning: A Scoping Review of Teachers’ Perspectives on the Use of Adaptive Learning Technologies
Authors: Simon Patricia D. , Zeng Lily Min
Published: December 2024

Adaptive learning technologies are emerging educational tools that personalize instruction and tasks to meet students’ current ability levels. Despite their increasing prevalence, the present discourse on adaptive learning software focuses on the technical aspects of adaptive learning systems without accounting for other factors that impact their use in classrooms. In acknowledgment of the importance of teachers’ roles in the implementation of educational tools, this review examined studies about teachers’ perspectives on the use of adaptive learning technologies in their courses. A systematic search was conducted in four databases (ERIC, Academic Search Complete, Google Scholar, and Taylor Francis Online). Twenty-nine full-text articles were retained for analysis. A hybrid of deductive and inductive approaches was applied to analyze the data, using the factors described in the Technology Acceptance Model and its extensions as a guide. The findings showed that teachers who saw the long-term benefits of using adaptive learning technologies were more willing to invest time and effort to learn and use the tools in their classes. Barriers identified were the scant professional development opportunities for teachers, the programs’ complexities, and the demands on teachers’ time. To make adaptive learning programs work, teachers must be on board as co-designers and content creators, and they require ongoing technical and institutional support and sufficient preparation in teacher education programs.