bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
VNS paired with training enhances recognition memory: mechanistic insights from proteomic analysis of the hippocampal synapse
Authors: Jung Seung H. , Olsen Laura K. , Jones Krysten A. , Moore Raquel J. , Harshman Sean W. , Hatcher-Solis Candice N.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Recognition memory, an essential component of cognitive health, can suffer from biological limitations of stress, aging, or neurodegenerative disease. Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is a neuromodulation therapy with the potential to improve cognitive function. This study investigated the effectiveness of multiple sessions of VNS to enhance recognition memory in healthy rodents and the underlying cognitive benefits of VNS by proteomic analysis of the synaptosome.

Methods

Rats demonstrated VNS-induced recognition memory improvements using a novel object recognition (NOR) task. Using the LC–MS/MS method, roughly 3,000 proteins in the synaptosome of the hippocampus were analyzed.

Results

Protein–protein interaction (PPI) enrichment analysis found differentially expressed proteins related to synaptic signaling and neurotransmitter pathways. PPI network analysis identified six unique protein clusters, including a cluster of synaptic signaling related pathways. Using ingenuity pathway analysis (IPA), rapamycin-insensitive companion of mTOR was identified as an upstream regulator of synaptosome changes due to VNS-paired training.

Discussion

Based on these results, it is proposed that VNS may mediate cognitive enhancement via increases in glutamatergic signaling and early LTP during the consolidation period, followed by sustained synaptic plasticity via modified post-synaptic receptor expression and dendritic outgrowth. Further investigation is required to determine if VNS is a good candidate to ameliorate cognitive impairment.
Variants in RHOBTB2 associated with cancer and rare developmental and epileptic encephalopathy
Authors: Solano Elaina , Foksinska Aleksandra , Crowder Camerron M.
Published: December 2024

RHOBTB2 is a member of the Rho GTPases subfamily of signaling proteins, known tumor suppressors whose loss of function and decreased expression is associated with cancer onset. Beyond its cancer-related role, RHOBTB2 is implicated in rare neurodevelopmental disorders, specifically RHOBTB2-related disorders, recognized in 2018 as a subtype of developmental and epileptic encephalopathies (DEE). Common symptoms of these disorders include early-onset epilepsy, severe intellectual disability, microcephaly, and movement disorders. Few studies have investigated patient variants associated with RHOBTB2-related disorders, and the impact of these variants on protein function remains unclear. Limited research suggests that the accumulation of RHOBTB2 in neural tissues contributes to the development of DEE. Similarly, preclinical studies indicate that missense variants near or in the BTB domain of RHOBTB2 result in decreased degradation of RHOBTB2 and the onset of DEE, whereas variants in the GTPase domain cause more variable neurodevelopmental symptoms, but do not impair proteasomal degradation of RHOBTB2. However, the exact pathophysiological mechanisms are unclear and may differ across variants. Current treatment approaches for individuals with RHOBTB2-related DEE involve the use of antiseizure medications to decrease seizures; however, no treatments have been identified that address the other symptoms or the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms associated with these disorders. Overall, RHOBTB2 remains an understudied protein with limited information on its function and how it contributes to disease mechanisms. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of RHOBTB2 function, with an emphasis on its association with neurodevelopmental disorders through an analysis of preclinical studies and case reports that link individual variants with clinical features.
Combination decoction of Astragalus mongholicus and Salvia miltiorrhiza mitigates pressure-overload cardiac dysfunction by inhibiting multiple ferroptosis pathways
Authors: Xu Qiyao , Liu Xuan , Chen Zhaoyang , Guo Can , Lu Pengyu , Zhang Sujie , Wang Xindong , Shen Jianping
Published: December 2024

Background

Astragalus mongholicus (AM) and Salvia miltiorrhiza (SM) are commonly used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat heart failure (HF). Ferroptosis has been studied as a key factor in the occurrence of HF. It remains unclear whether the combined use of AM and SM can effectively improve HF and the underlying mechanisms.

Objective

This study aims to explore whether the combined use of AM and SM can improve HF by inhibiting ferroptosis. It also examines the roles and interactions of the pathways associated with GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH.

Methods

In vitro experiments used angiotensin II-induced (4 μM for 48 h) hypertrophic H9c2 cells, while in vivo studies employed a rat model of transverse aortic constriction-induced (to 1 mm for 8 weeks) HF. Interventions included decoctions of AM and SM (for animal experiments) and medicated serum (for cell experiments), along with specific pathway inhibitors such as erastin, FSP1 inhibitor and brequinar. Subsequently, various molecular biology methods were used to measure the protein levels of GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH, as well as each sample group’s ferroptosis-related and HF-related indicators, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms.

Results

The combined use of AM and SM can effectively restore the levels of GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH that are reduced after HF, as well as improve indicators related to ferroptosis and HF. When GPX4, FSP1, or DHODH is inhibited, the ferroptosis-inhibiting effect and the ability of AM and SM to improve HF are both weakened. When two of the three proteins are inhibited, the protective effect of HDC is strongest when GPX4 is retained, followed by FSP1, and weakest when DHODH is retained.

Conclusion

This study confirms that the combined use of AM and SM inhibits ferroptosis and alleviates HF by increasing GPX4, FSP1, and DHODH levels. It shows that the protective effect is strongest through GPX4, followed by FSP1, and weakest through DHODH. These findings provide new insights into the therapeutic mechanisms of this combination of botanical drugs.
Pediatric flecainide pharmacogenomics: a roadmap to delivering precision-based care to pediatrics arrhythmias
Authors: Palmen Ronald , Walton Mollie , Wagner Jonathan
Published: December 2024

Flecainide acetate is a Class 1c anti-arrhythmic with a potent sodium voltage gated channel blockade which is utilized for the second-line treatment of tachyarrhythmias in children and adults. Given its narrow therapeutic index, the individualization of drug therapy is of utmost importance for clinicians. Despite efforts to improve anti-arrhythmic drug therapy, there remain knowledge gaps regarding the impact of variation in the genes relevant to flecainide’s disposition and response. This variability is compounded in developing children whose drug disposition and response pathways may remain immature. The purpose of this comprehensive review is to outline flecainide’s disposition and response pathways while simultaneously highlighting opportunities for prospective investigation in the pediatric population.
Meta-QTL mapping for wheat thousand kernel weight
Authors: Tan Chao , Guo Xiaojiang , Dong Huixue , Li Maolian , Chen Qian , Cheng Mengping , Pu Zhien , Yuan Zhongwei , Wang Jirui
Published: December 2024

Wheat domestication and subsequent genetic improvement have yielded cultivated species with larger seeds compared to wild ancestors. Increasing thousand kernel weight (TKW) remains a crucial goal in many wheat breeding programs. To identify genomic regions influencing TKW across diverse genetic populations, we performed a comprehensive meta-analysis of quantitative trait loci (MQTL), integrating 993 initial QTL from 120 independent mapping studies over recent decades. We refined 242 loci into 66 MQTL, with an average confidence interval (CI) 3.06 times smaller than that of the original QTL. In these 66 MQTL regions, a total of 4,913 candidate genes related to TKW were identified, involved in ubiquitination, phytohormones, G-proteins, photosynthesis, and microRNAs. Expression analysis of the candidate genes showed that 95 were specific to grain and might potentially affect TKW at different seed development stages. These findings enhance our understanding of the genetic factors associated with TKW in wheat, providing reliable MQTL and potential candidate genes for genetic improvement of this trait.
Mitigating saturation effects in rice nitrogen estimation using Dualex measurements and machine learning
Authors: Shi Peihua , Wang Yuan , Yin Congfei , Fan Kaiqing , Qian Yinfei , Chen Gui
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen is essential for rice growth and yield formation, but traditional methods for assessing nitrogen status are often labor-intensive and unreliable at high nitrogen levels due to saturation effects. This study evaluates the effectiveness of flavonoid content (Flav) and the Nitrogen Balance Index (NBI), measured using a Dualex sensor and combined with machine learning models, for precise nitrogen status estimation in rice. Field experiments involving 15 rice varieties under varying nitrogen application levels collected Dualex measurements of chlorophyll (Chl), Flav, and NBI from the top five leaves at key growth stages. Incremental analysis was performed to quantify saturation effects, revealing that chlorophyll measurements saturated at high nitrogen levels, limiting their reliability. In contrast, Flav and NBI remained sensitive across all nitrogen levels, accurately reflecting nitrogen status. Machine learning models, particularly random forest and extreme gradient boosting, achieved high prediction accuracy for leaf and plant nitrogen concentrations (R2 > 0.82), with SHAP analysis identifying NBI and Flav from the top two leaves as the most influential predictors. By combining Flav and NBI measurements with machine learning, this approach effectively overcomes chlorophyll-based saturation limitations, enabling precise nitrogen estimation across diverse conditions and offering practical solutions for improved nitrogen management in rice cultivation.
Validation and adaptation of the diffusion of intimate images among adolescents (EDIMA) scale in adolescents from Peru
Authors: Figueroa-Quiñones Joel , Ipanaqué-Zapata Miguel , Rivera-Lozada Oriana , Villalobos-Quiroz Cecilia Gabriela , Vilcabana-Burgos Axel Glynda , Valle-Chafloque Ibeth Solange
Published: December 2024

Background

The use of technologies through social networks is a common practice among adolescents who use it to communicate. However, the lack of control and supervision of these media means that they disseminate any type of information, including sexual content.

Objective

To evaluate the psychometric properties of the Intimate Images Diffusion Scale (EDIMA) in Peruvian adolescents.

Method

A psychometric study was conducted with a population of 900 adolescents from the coast, highlands and jungle of Peru. A confirmatory factor analysis and measurement invariance analysis was performed by age and sex groups. In addition, internal consistency was evaluated through the omega index to estimate the reliability of the scale.

Results

Our study identified that the two-factor model obtained adequate fit indices with values >0.994 for the CFI and TLI, while the SRMR had a value of 0.074 and the RMSEA of 0.058. Measurement invariance by age group reported a ΔCFI and ΔRMSEA ≤0.01. Reliability reported a McDonald’s ω greater than 0.8.

Conclusion

The EDIMA is a valid and reliable instrument to evaluate the dissemination of intimate images among adolescents from various regions of Peru.
AI performance assessment in blended learning: mechanisms and effects on students’ continuous learning motivation
Authors: Ji Hao , Suo Lingling , Chen Hua
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Blended learning combines the strengths of online and offline teaching and has become a popular approach in higher education. Despite its advantages, maintaining and enhancing students’ continuous learning motivation in this mode remains a significant challenge.

Methods

This study utilizes questionnaire surveys and structural equation modeling to examine the role of AI performance assessment in influencing students’ continuous learning motivation in a blended learning environment.

Results

The results indicate that AI performance assessment positively influences students’ continuous learning motivation indirectly through expectation confirmation, perceived usefulness, and learning satisfaction. However, AI performance assessment alone does not have a direct impact on continuous learning motivation.

Discussion

To address these findings, this study suggests measures to improve the effectiveness of AI performance assessment systems in blended learning. These include providing diverse evaluation metrics, recommending personalized learning paths, offering timely and detailed feedback, fostering teacher-student interactions, improving system quality and usability, and visualizing learning behaviors for better tracking.
Women show enhanced proprioceptive target estimation through visual-proprioceptive conflict resolution
Authors: de Melo Anderson Barcelos , Landeira-Fernandez Jesus , Krahe Thomas Eichenberg
Published: December 2024

To form a unified and coherent perception of the organism’s state and its relationship with the surrounding environment, the nervous system combines information from various sensory modalities through multisensory integration processes. Occasionally, data from two or more sensory channels may provide conflicting information. This is particularly evident in experiments using the mirror-guided drawing task and the mirror-box illusion, where there is conflict between positional estimates guided by vision and proprioception. This study combined two experimental protocols (the mirror-box and the mirror-guided drawing tasks) to examine whether the learned resolution of visuo-proprioceptive conflicts in the mirror-guided drawing task would improve proprioceptive target estimation of men and women during the mirror-box test. Our results confirm previous findings of visual reaching bias produced by the mirror-box illusion and show that this effect is progressively reduced by improvement in the mirror drawing task performance. However, this was only observed in women. We discuss these findings in the context of possible gender differences in multisensory integration processes as well as in embodiment.
Evaluating a computer-based body exposure paradigm for the treatment of body image disturbance in adolescent Anorexia Nervosa: effects on the attentional bias and emotions
Authors: Sasse Lena , Stonawski Valeska , Kratz Oliver , Moll Gunther , Horndasch Stefanie
Published: December 2024

Background

A diagnostic criterion of Anorexia Nervosa (AN) is body image disturbance. Body exposure therapy is a widely used approach to treat this; however, it is unclear which part of body exposure therapy is relevant for regaining a realistic perspective on the own body. This study aimed to examine the role of the attentional bias (AB), which AN patients exhibit to the most disliked parts of their body. Additionally, emotional responses to the body exposure sessions were examined.

Methods

Participants were adolescent girls with a diagnosis of AN, who were randomly assigned to either an intervention (INT) or a treatment-as-usual (TAU) group. Both groups completed a pre and a post session, which included the completion of questionnaires to measure AN-psychopathology. The INT group received four sessions of a computer-based body exposure between the pre and the post session. The viewing pattern was recorded before and after each intervention session via an eyetracking (ET) device, as were emotional response scores on a visual analog scale (VAS; anxiety and disgust). The TAU group did not receive the intervention, but viewing patterns were recorded during the pre and the post session. All participants were asked to list their three least favorite body parts to be able to subsequently assess the AB.

Results

Fifty-eight adolescent girls with AN participated in the study. There were no differences in psychopathology pre to post session, as measured by administered questionnaires. The existence of an AB could be replicated, but there was no significant reduction in the AB pre to post session in the INT group, nor was there an interaction between group and time. Also, no changes in the AB were found within and between sessions in the INT group. Anxiety scores reduced significantly across sessions while disgust scores were significantly higher post session than they were pre session.

Conclusions

While the existence of an AB was demonstrated, the carried-out body exposures were neither sufficient to reduce the AB nor the psychopathology; nevertheless, a significant decrease in anxiety levels showed the usefulness of the exposure sessions. Future research might benefit from more exposure sessions and incorporating AB modification training (ABMT).
Consumption patterns before and during the COVID-19 pandemic among patients admitted to inpatient drug detoxification treatment: Results of two cross-sectional surveys from 2018 and 2021
Authors: Roser Patrik , Specka Michael , Bonnet Udo , Kuhlmann Thomas , Kühnhold Stefan , Steinert Renate , Zeiske Benita , Deimel Daniel , Scherbaum Norbert
Published: December 2024

Background

The lockdown measures during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic could have influenced drug consumption patterns of persons with drug use disorder, especially due to a reduced availability of drugs, an increased consumption of sedating substances as a coping strategy, or a shift to novel psychotropic substances (NPS) associated with an increased drug buying in the internet. In this study, the consumption patterns of people mainly with opioid use disorder entering inpatient drug detoxification treatment were investigated in the same hospitals with the same methods before and during the pandemic.

Methods

At admission, patients were interviewed regarding their consumption patterns using the EuropASI questionnaire. In addition, changes in the routes of drug acquisition were assessed.

Results

In five hospitals in Western Germany, 213 (2021) and 175 persons (2018) were recruited. Sociodemographic data were similar in both cohorts (mean age around 40 years, mainly male, about 50% with migrant background, high unemployment rate). Rates of use of various drugs during the last 30 days were also similar. Differences were detected for gabapentinoids and opioid analgesics (increase >5%) as well as for cannabis (decrease >5%). Current use of NPS was low in both surveys. Only a minority of patients had experiences with drug acquisition in the internet.

Discussion

The pandemic had only a minor influence on consumption patterns and routes of drug acquisition in this sample. It remains to be seen whether the increased use of gabapentinoids and opioid analgesics will continue despite the end of the pandemic.
School-based adolescent health survey in Himachal Pradesh, India: study design and protocol
Authors: Mohanty Saroj , Mehra Devika , Das Subha Sankar , Sethi Gaurav , Garg Rishi , Gupta Anmol , Chauhan Anjali , Mehra Sunil
Published: December 2024

Background

The World Health Organization defined adolescent age group as a life span between 10 and 19 years. Adolescence is a phase of transition from childhood to adulthood, it is a unique stage for human development and a very sensitive period for laying the foundation of good health. Investment in this life-stage yields triple dividend. To promote health and well-being of adolescents, Government of India has launched various programs. An institutionalized evaluation of documenting achievement would strengthen these government led programs.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey will be conducted among adolescents enrolled in government schools in the age group of 13–17 years. Two research instruments for students, principals, and for data collectors a checklist will be developed. Standard measures will be followed for data quality assurance. Data from students and principals will be collected in self-administration mode. Bivariate and multiple logistic regression will be employed for data analysis.

Results

The study protocol for the school-based adolescent health survey will be implemented in Himachal Pradesh, India. The survey results will be disseminate both at state and national level.

Conclusion

The study findings will provide policymakers and program planners with scientific evidence on key thematic areas essential for adolescent development and health outcomes. These insights will help identify and prioritize specific focus areas within the school health program, guiding more effective implementation strategies to address the unique needs of adolescents.
Coupling coordination relationship between health resource allocation and regional economic development: an empirical study based on five provinces in eastern China
Authors: Wang Yongqiang , Feng Xiaochen , Chai Yulin , Chen Kexuan , Yang Shilan , Li Wei , Mi Yuqing
Published: December 2024

Background

Improving system coordination is a pivotal strategy and a critical pathway for social governance. Chinese society is currently facing a significant challenge in aligning the allocation of health resources with economic development. Evaluating the level of coordinated development within the system can provide valuable insights to support the construction of a more coordinated China and foster high-quality development.

Methods

Based on a systematically constructed indicator framework, our study selected data from five eastern provinces of China to establish a ten-year panel dataset covering the period from 2011 to 2020. The comprehensive evaluation index and the relative development degree were employed to comprehensively evaluate the development level of the system. The coupling coordination degree model was applied to analyze the coupling coordination relationship and spatiotemporal evolution trend of the two systems. Additionally, the fixed effects model was used to identify the driving factors behind the coordinated development of the two systems.

Results

From 2011 to 2020, the comprehensive indices of health resource allocation and economic development in the five eastern provinces of China exhibited a consistent year-on-year increase, and the relative development degree experienced two critical values of 0.8 and 1.2, which changed from the lagging allocation of health resources to the lagging economic development. The system coordination index generally ranged between 0.35 and 0.90, with the coordination phase undergoing a transition from an antagonistic stage to a coordinated stage. The coordination type also gradually shifted from mild imbalance to good coordination. Furthermore, the levels of economic development, economic structure, technological investment, as well as the allocation of health human and material resources, all serve as critical drivers in enhancing the coordinated development of the system.

Conclusion

The coordinated development of eastern China’s provinces produces substantial spillover effects, and the realization of a Healthy China initiative must strategically harness their radiative and demonstrative effects. Achieving a superior level of coordination requires urgent efforts to rectify the existing deficiencies in the distribution of grassroots healthcare resources. Furthermore, cultivating innovative drivers of economic growth and enhancing the capacity for economic support are critical to ensuring high-quality and sustainable development.
New insights into methods to measure biological age: a literature review
Authors: Mathur Aanchal , Taurin Sebastien , Alshammary Sfoug
Published: December 2024

Biological age is a concept that reflects the physiological state of an individual rather than the chronological time since birth. It can help assess the risk of age-related diseases and mortality and the effects of interventions to slow down or reverse aging. However, there is no consensus on measuring biological age best, and different methods may yield different results. In this paper, which includes 140 relevant pieces of literature, out of 33,000, we review some new methods to measure biological age based on recent advances in biotechnology and data science. We discussed some novel biomarkers and algorithms that can capture the dynamic and multidimensional aspects of aging at different levels. We evaluate their performance and validity using various datasets and criteria and compare them with existing methods. We also discuss their potential applications and implications for aging research and clinical practice. We conclude that the new methods offer more accurate and reliable estimates of biological age and open new avenues for understanding and modulating the aging process.
Measuring the effects of pedagogical agent cognitive and affective feedback on students’ academic performance
Authors: Arguedas Marta , Daradoumis Thanasis , Caballé Santi
Published: December 2024

There is still a debate on the influence and effectiveness of pedagogical agents in a learning environment, especially on the means these agents employ for enhancing students’ academic performance. The current study aims at measuring the effectiveness of cognitive and affective feedback (CaAF) types that a human teacher and a virtual Affective Pedagogical Tutor (APT) used in their groups of students (control and experimental groups respectively) in an authentic long-term learning situation. Participants were a sample of 115 students carrying out collaborative activities in a “web design” course. Our findings showed that APT cognitive feedback (CF) significantly increased students’ learning outcomes compared to the human teacher’s feedback, whereas APT affective feedback (AF) only achieved partial success. Nevertheless, the study has some limitations: it is based on a single course and a specific academic context, limiting the generalizability of its findings. Additionally, while cognitive feedback demonstrated a clear impact, the analysis of affective feedback was less conclusive, and its design requires further refinement. Finally, the cross-sectional design of the study restricts the ability to assess whether improvements in learning outcomes persist over time. Future research directions include exploring the generalizability of results across diverse disciplines, deepening the analysis of affective feedback, and incorporating longitudinal studies to evaluate the durability of the observed effects.
Physical activity and its benefits on adolescents' mental health through self-esteem
Authors: Laurier Catherine , Pascuzzo Katherine , Jubinville Vicky , Lemieux Annie
Published: December 2024

Background

Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, the scientific community has been concerned about the high rates of psychological distress among adolescents. The pandemic not only tested adolescents’ adaptation, but also disrupted key areas of their development. This demonstrates the need to study their psychological adjustment over time during this critical period to better guide services.

Objective

This study sought to explore the extent to which physical activity and its association with self-esteem in the first months of the pandemic impacted adolescents' psychological distress, six months later.

Methods

Two hundred and ninety-four adolescents (73% girls) between the ages of 12 and 17 participated in a longitudinal study launched at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of hours spent engaging in physical activity (HPA) in the past week and self-esteem were measured at Time 1 (T1; summer 2020). Psychological distress was measured at T1 and Time 2 (T2; winter 2021).

Results

More HPA in the past week were related to greater self-esteem at T1. Greater self-esteem at T1 was related to lower psychological distress, six months later (T2). Lastly, HPA in the past week was not directly linked to psychological distress at T2, which confirms a fully indirect model.

Conclusion

Results suggest that physical activity is a key factor in promoting better mental health adjustment through its benefits in terms of self-esteem, even during times of turmoil. Findings reinforce the recommendation of promoting the practice of sports and athletic activity in difficult times.
Gravitational Wave Detectors—Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Thorne Kip Stephen
Published: December 2024

Since the beginning of my career, I have been fascinated by the phenomenon of gravitational waves—ripples in space and time that spread at the speed of light. At first, my interest was simply in understanding the concepts, but once I realized there was a possibility to actually detect gravitational waves, I was hooked. I decided to join the efforts to design and build gravitational wave detectors, and I worked on that challenge for a few decades until the first successful detection in 2015. In this article, I will tell you about how a gravitational wave detection instrument called LIGO came about, how my students and I helped improve it, and what the future holds for LIGO and for other gravitational wave detectors that could revolutionize our understanding of the universe.
Impact of major emergencies on zero hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition
Authors: Fang Zhong , Xiao Qiqi , Gao Yuan
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Food security is a common livelihood issue that has received much attention from countries all over the world. Thus, researching the impact of COVID-19 on eradicating hunger, achieving food security, and improving nutrition can provide experiences for effectively responding to future emergencies that may affect food security.

Research and methods

Previous studies on the impact of COVID-19 on food security are less concerned with its impact on improving nutrition, therefore, this paper opens the black box of the process of eliminating hunger, reaching food security and improving nutrition, and divides it into the agricultural production sub-stage and the elimination of hunger and improvement of nutritional sustainability sub-stage. On the other hand, most of the past studies are based on impact pathway analysis only, and lack the assessment of the degree of impact from a quantitative perspective. Therefore, this paper takes the data of 29 provinces in China from 2016 to 2020 as the object of the study to measure their total and sub-stage efficiencies in the process of eradicating hunger, reaching food security, and improving nutrition, and to explore the characteristics of their spatial distributions. Meanwhile, the focus is concentrated on the 2019–2020 window to explore the impact of COVID-19.

Result and discussion

Based on research findings, this paper puts forward policy recommendations such as establishing a sound natural disaster prevention and control mechanism and accelerating agricultural technological innovation in order to better reduce the negative impact of food security emergencies in the future.
A novel technique to characterize procoagulant platelet formation and evaluate platelet procoagulant tendency in cats by flow cytometry
Authors: Shaverdian Meg , Nguyen Nghi , Li Ronald H. L.
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Cardiogenic arterial thromboembolism (CATE) is a life-threatening complication of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with a high mortality rate. As the primary responders in hemostasis, platelets play a crucial role in the progression of CATE. Procoagulant platelets are a subpopulation of activated platelets that facilitate thrombin generation to strengthen thrombus structure. Since their discovery, procoagulant platelets have gained a considerable amount of attention due to their potential role in thromboembolic complications. Uncovering the key phenotypic markers and agonists underlying the procoagulant response in feline platelets may provide diagnostic and therapeutic insights in the treatment of CATE. However, species differences in platelet physiology and the sensitive nature of feline platelets pose some significant challenges in studying procoagulant platelets in cats.

Objectives

To first devise a flow cytometric method to sequentially assess procoagulant platelet markers and to identify agonists that could induce procoagulant platelet phenotypes. Furthermore, a novel scoring system was established to evaluate the procoagulant tendency of platelets in cats.

Methods

Platelets were isolated from eight healthy cats and activated by thrombin in the presence or absence of collagen (COL) and convulxin (CVX). The following markers were measured sequentially by flow cytometry: (1) loss of mitochondrial membrane potential (ΔΨm), (2) phosphatidylserine (PS) externalization, and (3) P-selectin upregulation.

Results

Thrombin in the presence of CVX significantly reduced ΔΨm and induced P-selectin upregulation (p = 0.0078, p = 0.0128, respectively). In addition, thrombin-treated platelets in the presence of COL and CVX augmented PS externalization significantly (p = 0.043, p = 0.0172, respectively). Of the agonists tested, thrombin and CVX resulted in the highest procoagulant tendency score with 75% cats reaching a score ≥2/3. The number of cats with a procoagulant tendency score of 2 or 3 for thrombin and thrombin + COL was 4/8 (50%) and 5/8 (62.5%), respectively.

Discussion

Sequential analysis of procoagulant markers via flow cytometry may be an effective technique for studying procoagulant platelets in cats.
Software Level Security and Privacy Attacks and Challenges in Healthcare Systems
Authors: Memon Sumaira , Memon Shahzad , Dhomeja Lachhmand Das , Memon Bisharat Rasool , Memon Nisar Ahmed
Published: December 2024

The widespread adoption of electronic healthcare technology holds immerse promise for improving clinical outcomes and transforming healthcare delivery. The COVID-19 pandemic further accelerated the use of Internet of things (IoT), Cloud Computing, Robotics and Artificial Intelligence (AI) for pandemic data   analysis, remote diagnostics, use of wireless medical devices and public information services. This surge in usage and integration of smart devices, often connected through healthcare apps has also introduced   new cyber-security and concerns. The vast amount of personal data, including health information, makes healthcare systems a prime target for cybercriminals who could exploit it for harassment and fraudulent purposes. Additionally, the increased reliance on anytime, anywhere connectivity creates vulnerabilities in wireless medical devices. Recent reports highlight these threats, with examples including privacy breaches, ransomware attacks, and disruptions in communication channels for medical devices, Such security breaches can erode patient trust, cripple healthcare systems and even endanger lives.  to facilitate users also increases various cyber threats. In recent times, privacy attacks on This paper reviews the recent software-level security and privacy threats in smart healthcare systems, explores mitigation techniques proposed in the literature, and discuss the future challenges of software security in smart healthcare.
Multistep Prediction Analysis of Pure Pursuit Method for Automated Guided Vehicles in Aircraft Industry
Authors: Wang Biling , Fan Gaojian , Zhang Xinming , Gao Liangjie , Wang Xiaobo , Fu Weijie
Published: December 2024

The pure pursuit (PP) method has been widely employed in automated guided vehicles (AGVs) to address path tracking challenges. However, the traditional pure pursuit method exhibits certain limitations in tracking performance. For instance, selecting a look-ahead point that is too close can lead to oscillations during tracking, while selecting one that is too far away can result in slow tracking and corner-cutting issues. To address these challenges, this paper proposes a multistep prediction pure pursuit method. First, the look-ahead distance calculation equation is adjusted by incorporating path curvature, allowing it to adaptively adjust according to road conditions. Next, to avoid oscillations caused by constant changes in the look-ahead distance, this paper adopts the prediction concept of model predictive control (MPC) to make multistep predictions for the pure pursuit method. The final input is derived from a linear weighted combination of the multistep prediction results. Simulation analyses and experiments demonstrate that the multistep predictive pure pursuit method significantly enhances the tracking performance of the traditional pure pursuit method.
Design of a Suspension Controller with Human Body Model for Ride Comfort Improvement and Motion Sickness Mitigation
Authors: Kim Jinwoo , Yim Seongjin
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a method to design a suspension controller with a human body model for ride comfort improvement and motion sickness mitigation. Generally, it has been known that the vertical acceleration of a sprung mass should be reduced for ride comfort. On the other hand, recent studies have shown that, combined, the vertical acceleration and pitch rate of a sprung mass are key factors that cause motion sickness. However, those variables have been considered with respect to the center of gravity of a sprung mass. For motion sickness mitigation, the vertical acceleration of a human head should be also considered. In this paper, the vertical accelerations and pitch rates of a sprung mass and a human head are controlled by a suspension controller for ride comfort improvement and motion sickness mitigation. For the controller design, a half-car and human body models are adopted. With those models, several types of static output feedback suspension controller are designed with linear quadratic optimal control methodology. To reduce the pitch rate of the sprung mass and the vertical acceleration of the head, a filtered-X LMS algorithm is adopted as an adaptive feedforward algorithm and combined with the static output feedback controllers. A frequency response analysis and simulation are performed with the designed controllers on vehicle simulation software, CarSim®. From the simulation results, it is shown that the proposed controllers can effectively reduce the vertical accelerations and the pitch rate of the sprung mass and the human head.
Harnessing AI-Powered Genomic Research for Sustainable Crop Improvement
Authors: Wójcik-Gront Elżbieta , Zieniuk Bartłomiej , Pawełkowicz Magdalena
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) can revolutionize agriculture by enhancing genomic research and promoting sustainable crop improvement. AI systems integrate machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) with big data to identify complex patterns and relationships by analyzing vast genomic, phenotypic, and environmental datasets. This capability accelerates breeding cycles, improves predictive accuracy, and supports the development of climate-resilient, high-yielding crop varieties. Applications such as precision agriculture, automated phenotyping, predictive analytics, and early pest and disease detection demonstrate AI’s ability to optimize agricultural practices while promoting sustainability. Despite these advancements, challenges remain, including fragmented data sources, variability in phenotyping protocols, and data ownership concerns. Addressing these issues through standardized data integration frameworks, advanced analytical tools, and ethical AI practices will be critical for realizing AI’s full agricultural potential. This review provides a comprehensive overview of AI-powered genomic research, highlights the role of big data in training robust AI models, and explores ethical and technological considerations for sustainable agricultural practices.
Influences of Sprinkler Frost Protection on Air and Soil Temperature and Chlorophyll Fluorescence of Tea Plants in Tea Gardens
Authors: Pan Qingmin , Lu Yongzong , Hu Yongguang
Published: December 2024

Sprinkler irrigation is an effective method for protecting economic crops from frost damage; however, current research on its impacts is insufficient and lacks comprehensive evaluation. This research investigated the effects of sprinkler irrigation for frost protection on the air, soil, and tea plants in the tea garden. Sprinkler frost protection experiments were conducted in the tea garden, where temperature sensors measured the air and soil temperatures, and Monitoring-PAM was used to measure the chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (Fv/Fm) of the tea plants. The results indicated that lower initial ambient temperatures or smaller droplet sizes accelerate the rate of air temperature increase and slow the cooling rate. Under conditions of heavy frost, ice formation from irrigation water acts as an insulating layer, protecting the inter-row soil. Additionally, the Fv/Fm values of tea leaves protected by sprinkler irrigation ranged from 0.6 to 0.7, and were significantly higher than those of leaves exposed to frost damage. The results also showed that air and soil temperature and tea Fv/Fm can be used to perform a comprehensive assessment of sprinkler frost protection effectiveness.
Farmer Perceptions of GIAHS: Analyzing Farmer Involvement and GIAHS Benefits in the Ifugao Rice Terraces
Authors: Gonzalvo Clarisse Mendoza , Maharjan Keshav Lall , Baggo Jude Cadingpal , Embate John Mervin Lasafin
Published: December 2024

The Ifugao Rice Terraces have been the Philippines’ first and only Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System (GIAHS) since 2011. More than a decade later, this study assesses whether Ifugao farmers find this designation beneficial and if it enhances their sense of involvement. Through a cross-sectional survey of GIAHS farmers in Banaue, Ifugao, this study examines perceived benefits and involvement, along with views on youth participation in agriculture, farmer livelihoods, and tourism management in Ifugao. The findings reveal that 65.1% of farmers see the GIAHS designation as beneficial and 58.7% feel involved. Farmers who perceive limited tourism benefits from the GIAHS are more likely to feel uninvolved, while those who value the designation’s potential for improving income and consumer demand for Ifugao rice report higher involvement. Cultural heritage and ancestral values are significant motivators, with some farmers viewing the GIAHS as a means of preserving traditions. Support from local government, subsidies, and media enhances involvement, particularly among those practicing rituals or growing the traditional Tinawon rice, which strengthens ties to the GIAHS. Additionally, farmers involved in discussions or training on Environmental Conservation Agriculture (ECA) report a stronger connection to the GIAHS, as ECA practices align with their traditional, sustainable approaches. Overall, this study highlights the complex role of the GIAHS as a bridge between cultural heritage, livelihood, and sustainability, underscoring the need to integrate farmer perspectives more closely into GIAHS initiatives in Ifugao.
Influence of Wind Speed on the Motion Characteristics of Peach Leaves (Prunus persica)
Authors: Wang Guanqun , Dong Xiang , Jia Weidong , Ou Mingxiong , Yu Pengpeng , Wu Minmin , Zhang Zhi , Hu Xinkang , Huang Yourui , Lu Fengxiang
Published: December 2024

Air-assisted sprayers are widely used in orchards due to their efficiency in enhancing droplet penetration and deposition. These sprayers disperse droplets through a high-velocity airflow, which agitates the leaves and aids in canopy penetration. This study involved controlled experiments to simulate leaf movement during field spraying, with a focus on the dynamics of peach tree leaves (Prunus persica) in varying wind fields. An experimental setup consisting of a wind-conveying system, a measurement system, and a fixed system was designed. The moving speeds of the wind field (0.75 m/s, 0.5 m/s, and 1.0 m/s) and wind velocities (ranging from 2 m/s to 8 m/s) were varied. Key parameters, including leaf tip displacement, angular velocity, and twisting amplitude, were measured using high-speed cameras and motion analysis software. The results indicate that, at a constant wind velocity, increasing the wind field’s moving speed resulted in a reduced range of motion, decelerated angular velocity, and decreased twisting amplitude of the leaves. Notably, at a wind field speed of 8 m/s and a moving speed of 1.0 m/s, the twisting duration of the leaves was only 67% of that observed at a moving speed of 0.5 m/s. These findings suggest that wind speed and field motion characteristics play a crucial role in leaf dynamics, informing the design of air-assisted spraying systems.
Demonstrating Agroecological Practices in Potato Production with Conservation Tillage and Pseudomonas spp., Azotobacter spp., Bacillus spp. Bacterial Inoculants—Evidence from Hungary
Authors: Marjanović Jana , Zubairu Abdulrahman Maina , Varga Sandor , Turdalieva Shokhista , Ramos-Diaz Fernanda , Ujj Apolka
Published: December 2024

This study explores agroecological practices designed to improve soil quality and crop yield in small-scale agriculture, focusing on soil inoculation with beneficial bacteria over conventional fertilizers. Conducted at the SZIA Agroecological Garden MATE in Gödöllő, Hungary, the research utilizes 12 plots to evaluate different conservation tillage methods, including minimum and no-tillage, with and without microbial inoculation. Commenced in 2022, this study centers on potato cultivation (Solanum tuberosum L.) and includes comprehensive chemical and physical analyses of soil and harvested potatoes, alongside continuous monitoring of growth. Statistical analysis using One-way Anova in R revealed p-values predominantly above 0.05, indicating no significant differences across most parameters, though variations in soil plasticity and pH (KCl) were noted. Results suggest that substantial treatmeent differences may require a longer observation period. Notably, plots with microbial inoculation exhibited higher harvest weights and tuber sizes compared to control plots. Additionally, trends and interactions were found between weed abundance, total harvest, and plant height. The findings indicate that the benefits of integrated agroecological practices, including conservation tillage, may take time to materialize, emphasizing the necessity for extended observation. This research lays the groundwork for future studies, underscoring the importance of patience in achieving improvements in soil health and crop quality through sustainable agricultural methods.
Morpho-Physiological Responses of Shade-Loving Fern Polystichum spp. to Single and Combined Lead and Light Stress
Authors: Pietrak Anna , Łopusiewicz Łukasz , Gałczyńska Małgorzata , Salachna Piotr
Published: December 2024

The effects of lead (Pb) stress on plant growth and physiological processes may depend on other environmental stresses coinciding. Knowledge of the response of shade-loving plants to stresses, particularly the relationship between Pb stress and light stress, is lacking. The effects of single and combined Pb and light stress on the growth and physiological parameters of Polystichum setiferum and Polystichum setiferum ‘Proliferum’ ferns were evaluated under glasshouse conditions. Treatments comprised control (80% shade, ~111 μmol m−2 s−1 photosynthetic photon flux density, PPFD), light stress (100% full sunlight, ~525 μmol m−2 s−1 PPFD), 1000 mg dm−3 Pb solution applied to plants under shade and light stress conditions. Under full sunlight, plants had damaged leaves and reduced leaf biomass, and underground parts of the plants had levels of photosynthetic pigments, reducing sugars and total flavonoids. The Pb stress decreased plant growth, reducing sugars, and free amino acids content, and at the same time increased chlorophyll content in P. setiferum and total polyphenols and flavonoid content in P. setiferum ‘Proliferum’. The combined stress of Pb and full sunlight reduced plant growth and the accumulation of pigments, reducing sugars, and free amino acids without affecting the levels of secondary metabolites. P. setiferum plants accumulated more Pb than P. setiferum ‘Proliferum.’ The fern P. setiferum ‘Proliferum’ was more tolerant to abiotic stresses than the fern P. setiferum. This study provided new insights into the response of shade-loving ornamental plants to single and combined Pb and light stress.