bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exploring the relationship between mental health status and life events in children and adolescents: the role of mediating factors
Authors: Xie Jiemei , Cheng Guoqiang , Zhou Mingliang , Liang Qisheng , Wang Qianjin
Published: February 2025

Background

The mental health status of children and adolescents is significantly influenced by negative life events, yet there is a lack of comprehensive analysis on mediating factors. This study aims to examine the relationship between negative life events and symptoms of anxiety and depression in children and adolescents, as well as to identify potential mediating factors.

Methods

In May 2022, cluster-randomized sampling was used to select 8041 primary, middle, and high school students in Zhaoqing City, Guangdong Province, for the final analysis. The Adolescent Life Events Scale, Self-Rating Anxiety Scale, and Self-Rating Depression Scale were employed to assess negative life events, anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms, respectively. Pearson correlation analysis and linear regression analysis were utilized to identify risk factors, and the Bootstrap method was applied for mediation analysis.

Results

The study revealed that 80.52% of children and adolescents experienced negative life events, with 23.38% reporting anxiety symptoms and 42.57% reporting depressive symptoms. Significant positive correlations were observed between negative life events and anxiety symptoms (r = 0.32, p < 0.001), as well as depressive symptoms (r = 0.44, p < 0.001). Mediation analysis further demonstrated that anxiety and depressive symptoms acted as mutual mediators in the relationship between negative life events and each other.

Conclusions

This study underscores the complex interplay between anxiety, depression, and negative life events in children and adolescents. These findings can inform strategies to help mitigate the emotional impact of negative life events, enhance mental health, and provide a scientific basis for developing effective interventions.
Research on the relationship between social support and academic self-efficacy among college students: a multivariate empirical analysis
Authors: Chen Chunmei , Zhu Yujie , Xiao Fanghao
Published: February 2025

Background

The critical role of social support in college students’ academic development cannot be ignored. This study aims to analyze the interrelationships and potential mechanisms between social support, sense of security, family cultural capital and academic self-efficacy.

Methods

A multivariate moderated mediation model was constructed by surveying 1,119 college students using the Social Support Scale, the Sense of Security Scale, the Academic Self-efficacy Scale, and the Family Cultural Capital Scale.

Results

(1) social support significantly increases sense of security; (2) sense of security significantly enhances academic self-efficacy; (3) social support directly contributes to academic self-efficacy; and (4) sense of security partially mediates the relationship between social support and academic self-efficacy; (5) family cultural capital plays a moderating role in the effects of social support on academic self-efficacy, especially in the first half of the direct and indirect effects.

Conclusion

These findings could provide an important theoretical basis and practical guidance for further understanding and enhancing academic self-efficacy among college students.
Optimal exercise modalities and doses for therapeutic management of osteoarthritis of the knee
Authors: Whitfield Max , Tomlinson Owen W.
Published: February 2025

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a progressive osteoarticular disease affecting the whole joint. In the United Kingdom, OA is the most prevalent joint disease, with knee osteoarthritis (KOA) being the most common type of OA. Key symptoms of KOA include knee pain, stiffness, and loss of physical function. Different types of exercise can be performed in people with KOA, which exert different magnitudes of impact forces on the knee joint, whereby the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) OA guidelines in fact recommend exercise as the core form of therapeutic OA management. However, the optimal type or dose – the cumulative intensity, duration, and frequency – of therapeutic exercise that most effectively provides KOA management is not currently known. This review aims to summarise and compare the literature, discussing optimal exercise modalities and doses for the management of KOA. All exercise modalities proved similarly beneficial at managing KOA with comparable improvements to knee pain, stiffness, and physical function, therefore with no optimal exercise modality identified. Benefits to KOA management was observed in everyone, including the elderly, obese, and those with severe KOA. Although, in those with severe KOA, walking was observed to only prevent further deterioration, rather than induce any symptomatic improvement. Furthermore, there was minimal difference between exercise modalities in relation to the improvements not only in KOA symptoms, but also modifiable KOA risk factors, adherence, adverse events, and QoL. Assessment of the dose-response relationship of each exercise modality showed that any dose of regular exercise was effective. Although, moderate intensity exercise performed three times weekly for 20-to-60-min appears optimal for KOA symptom control following most exercise modalities. Therefore, those with KOA should be encouraged to continue whatever exercise they currently do as should effectively manage symptoms, regardless of the modality or dose. However, those who do no exercise should use the present review in collaboration with clinicians via shared decision making to create a holistic exercise prescription. In summary, this review contributes to the literature through comprehensive discussion of different exercise modalities and doses in managing not only KOA symptoms, but modifiable KOA risk factors, exercise adherence, adverse events, and QoL. Additionally, summarised findings are discussed to give practical exercise recommendations to promote effective KOA management and recommendations for ongoing research.
Deep learning technology: enabling safe communication via the internet of things
Authors: Salama Ramiz , Mohapatra Hitesh , Tülbentçi Tuğşad , Al-Turjman Fadi
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The Internet of Things (IoT) is a new technology that connects billions of devices. Despite offering many advantages, the diversified architecture and wide connectivity of IoT make it vulnerable to various cyberattacks, potentially leading to data breaches and financial loss. Preventing such attacks on the IoT ecosystem is essential to ensuring its security.

Methods

This paper introduces a software-defined network (SDN)-enabled solution for vulnerability discovery in IoT systems, leveraging deep learning. Specifically, the Cuda-deep neural network (Cu-DNN), Cuda-bidirectional long short-term memory (Cu-BLSTM), and Cuda-gated recurrent unit (Cu-DNNGRU) classifiers are utilized for effective threat detection. The approach includes a 10-fold cross-validation process to ensure the impartiality of the findings. The most recent publicly available CICIDS2021 dataset was used to train the hybrid model.

Results

The proposed method achieves an impressive recall rate of 99.96% and an accuracy of 99.87%, demonstrating its effectiveness. The hybrid model was also compared to benchmark classifiers, including Cuda-Deep Neural Network, Cuda-Gated Recurrent Unit, and long short-term memory (Cu-DNNLSTM and Cu-GRULSTM).

Discussion

Our proposed technique outperforms existing classifiers based on various evaluation criteria such as F1-score, speed efficiency, accuracy, and precision. This shows the strength of the approach in threat detection and highlights the potential of combining SDN with deep learning for IoT vulnerability assessment.
Transport in reverse osmosis membranes: observations and comments on the pore flow model versus the solution‒diffusion model
Authors: Matsuura Takeshi , Guiver Michael D. , Lau Woei Jye , Ismail Ahmad Fauzi
Published: February 2025

Sixty-four years have passed since the announcement of the cellulose acetate membrane for seawater desalination by Loeb and Sourirajan at UCLA on 23 Aug 1960. Reverse osmosis (RO) is now well established as a process for desalination of seawater, brackish water, as well as for wastewater treatment. The number of research papers on RO is growing. In contrast to the numerous publications on RO membrane preparation and applications, studies on transport mechanisms have been largely neglected. However, this changed recently when M. Elimelech’s research group from Yale University published several papers challenging the applicability of the solution‒diffusion (S‒D) model. Especially, in the most recent paper published in 2024, they have shown seven reasons why the well-accepted S‒D model appears to be wrong. It is interesting to note that, according to Srinivasa Sourirajan, one of the co-inventors of cellulose acetate RO membrane, their work was guided by the Preferential Sorption‒Capillary Flow model. Moreover, he wrote that this pore model was based on the presence of a pure water layer at the salt solution‒air interface, which could be predicted by the Gibbs Adsorption Isotherm. The purpose of this short communication is to present some observations and discussion in response to the 2024 paper published by Elimelech’s group in Desalination journal. In addition, the Gibbs Adsorption Isotherm was revisited to examine if there is a pure water layer at the sodium chloride‒cellulose acetate membrane interface.
Intralobar pulmonary sequestration complicated by a giant supplying artery aneurysm presenting for 9 years: a case report
Authors: Weng Wei , Chi Xinle , Liu Ze , Chen Weiqian , Wang Shengze , Cai Wenjie , Wu Hai , Chen Yaomeng
Published: February 2025

Background

This article reports a case of a intralobar pulmonary sequestration (IPS) with a significantly large feeding artery aneurysm and shares the successful treatment experience.

Case presentation

A male was diagnosed with IPS combined with a feeding artery aneurysm approximately 74 mm × 61 mm in nine years ago but refused thoracotomy at that time. The patient presented this time due to an infection, and a CT scan revealed a significant increase in the lesion size to approximately 123 mm × 100 mm. After controlling the pulmonary inflammation, the patient underwent thoracoscopic ligation of the supplying artery, followed by an open chest excision of the sequestrated pulmonary aneurysm and left lower lobectomy, and the recovery post-surgery was very good.

Conclusion

When a sequestrated lung enlarges significantly, it is crucial to consider not only the conventional possibility of malignancy but also the rare coexistence of aneurysms. Thoracoscopic ligation of the supplying artery followed by open chest surgery is an effective treatment approach for IPS combined with a large feeding artery aneurysm.
Impact of Minimal Incision Repair of Rectus Abdominis Diastasis on Quality of Life and Stress Incontinence: A Prospective Study
Authors: Katawazai Asmatullah , Wallin Göran , Ärlebäck Anna , Sandblom Gabriel
Published: February 2025

Aim

This study evaluates the impact of the minimal incision repair of rectus abdominis diastasis (MIRRAD) procedure on physical activity, muscle strength, quality of life, and overall satisfaction in women with postpartum rectus abdominis diastasis (PP-RAD).

Methods

A cohort of 31 female patients, aged 20–50 years, diagnosed with PP-RAD unresponsive to conservative treatment, underwent the MIRRAD procedure. Assessments were conducted preoperatively and 1 year postoperatively, these included the Modified Abdominal Trunk Function Protocol (MATFP), Disability Rating Index (DRI), and Urinary Disability Index (UDI) questionnaires. Physical activity intensity was monitored using accelerometers.

Results

Significant improvements were observed in vigorous physical activities (Z = −2.352, p = 0.019), vector magnitude counts per minute (Z = −2.163, p = 0.031), and steps per minute (Z = −3.131, p = 0.002). DRI showed significant improvements in physical tasks like dressing, walking, and strenuous work (Z ranging from −2.705 to −4.603, p < 0.001). UDI indicated significant improvements in urinary symptoms, including reduced frequency (Z = −2.984, p = 0.003) and less urinary leakage (Z = −2.357, p = 0.018). MATFP demonstrated gains in back and abdominal muscle strength (Z = −4.321, p < 0.001) and trunk stability (Z = −3.991, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The MIRRAD procedure significantly improves physical strength, trunk stability, and urinary function, enhancing daily activities and overall physical health in women with PP-RAD. Further research is recommended to evaluate long-term outcomes.
The Effect of Contraction–Expansion Nozzle on High-Temperature Shock Tube Flow
Authors: Shen Junmou , Yao Dapeng , Shao Zhongjie , Ji Feng , Chen Xing , Chen Wei , Li Jianwei
Published: February 2025

To achieve higher enthalpy and pressure, the technique of variable cross-section drive is effectively combined with the heating of light gas to enhance the intensity of the incident shock wave. A study was conducted to predict the impact of variable cross-sections on the performance of high-temperature shock tube flow using a shock tube with a 2.6:1 diameter ratio between the driver and driven sections. The driver section was filled with a helium–argon gas mixture (mass ratio of 1:9), while the driven section contained dry air. Under total pressure conditions of 14.5 MPa and total temperature of 3404 K, as well as total pressure of 45 MPa and total temperature of 4845 K in the driver section, corresponding to driven section pressures of 10 kPa and 80 kPa, the results of chemical non-equilibrium numerical simulations were compared to experimental measurements of the incident shock Mach number and total pressure. The results indicated the following: First, after adding the contraction–expansion nozzle, the incident shock accelerated through the contraction section and reflected within the contraction section. Strong oscillations occurred during the flow, with increasing intensity as the throat size decreased. Second, without the nozzle, the shock velocity increased and then decreased. However, with the nozzle, the Mach number was highest near the nozzle exit and gradually decreased thereafter. Third, the presence of the nozzle led to the formation of a distinct fan-shaped wavefront, accompanied by significant variations in flow variables such as pressure, temperature, and Mach number in the region. This phenomenon was attributed to the interaction between the shock wave and the nozzle geometry, which altered the flow dynamics. Finally, as the throat size decreased, the intensity of the incident shock also decreased. After reflecting at the end of the shock tube, the total pressure in the driven section also decreased. The numerical simulations employed a multi-component, multi-temperature chemical non-equilibrium model, validated against experimental data, to accurately capture the complex flow behavior and wave interactions within the shock tube.
Antimicrobial Resistance in Pasteurella multocida Isolates from Bovine Mastitis Can Be Associated with Multidrug-Resistance-Mediating Integrative and Conjugative Elements (ICEs)
Authors: Jahnen Johanna , Hanke Dennis , Kadlec Kristina , Schwarz Stefan , Krüger-Haker Henrike
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Pasteurella multocida commonly colonizes the bovine respiratory tract and can occasionally cause intramammary infections. Here, eight P. multocida isolates from clinical cases of bovine mastitis were investigated for their molecular characteristics as well as phenotypic and genotypic antimicrobial resistance (AMR) properties. Methods: The isolates originated from quarter milk samples obtained in Germany for diagnostic purposes. Antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) by broth microdilution was performed according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute. Closed whole-genome sequences were generated by hybrid assembly of Illumina MiSeq short-reads and Oxford Nanopore MinION long-reads, followed by consecutive sequence analysis. Results: The P. multocida isolates belonged either to capsular:lipopolysaccharide type A:3 (n = 7) or A:6 (n = 1), and multi-locus sequence types 1 (n = 7) or 7 (n = 1). Seven isolates carried AMR genes, such as mef(C), mph(G), strA, strB, aphA1, aadA31, tet(H), tet(Y), floR, catA3, and sul2, as part of an integrative and conjugative element (ICE). These mobile genetic elements, 58,382–78,401 bp in size, were highly similar to the ICEs Tn7406 or Tn7407 that have been previously described in bovine Mannheimia haemolytica and P. multocida, respectively. Moreover, the isolates showed elevated minimal inhibitory concentrations corresponding to the identified AMR determinants. Conclusions: Molecular typing and ICE organization suggest the bovine respiratory tract as reservoir of the investigated mastitis-associated P. multocida. Horizontal cross-genus transfer of multidrug-resistance-mediating ICEs seems to occur under in vivo conditions among different pathogens from cattle in Germany, which underlines the importance of pathogen identification followed by AST for successful bovine mastitis therapy.
Characterization of Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolates Resistant to Cefiderocol from Hospitals and Outpatient Settings in Croatia
Authors: Bedenić Branka , Luxner Josefa , Zarfel Gernot , Benčić Ana , Sardelić Sanda , Anušić Maja , Vraneš Jasmina , Dobretzberger Verena , Barišić Ivan , Grisold Andrea
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: We conducted this study to evaluate the genotypic and phenotypic profiles of carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRKP) isolates, exhibiting resistance to cefiderocol (FDC), focusing on antibiotic susceptibility, β-lactamase production, the genetic environment of blaCARB and blaESBL genes and molecular epidemiology. FDC is now a last-line antibiotic for severe infections due to CRKP. Methods: Susceptibility to a wide range of antibiotics was determined by the disk diffusion and broth microdilution method. Carbapenemases were screened by a modified Hodge test while carbapenem hydrolysis was investigated using mCIM and eCIM tests. The screening for β-lactamase and fluoroquinolone cluster resistance genes was carried out by PCR. Plasmids were characterized by PCR-based replicon typing (PBRT). An inter-array genotyping CarbaResist test and whole genome sequencing (WGS) were applied on selected isolates. Results: All of the 31 isolates studied exhibited high-level resistance to amoxicillin–clavulanate, piperacillin–tazobactam, cefuroxime, expanded-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC), cefepime, ceftolozan–tazobactam and ciprofloxacin and the majority to gentamicin, and amikacin. Colistin and ceftazidime–avibactam preserved activity against 71% and 87% of the isolates, respectively. The combined disk method with clavulanic acid was positive in all but one isolate, indicating the production of an ESBL. Twenty-eight isolates carried one single carbapenemase-encoding gene, whereas three harbored double blaCARB genes. Among the studied isolates, 61% carried blaOXA-48, 29% blaKPC and 12.9% blaNDM genes. The inter-array genotyping CarbaResist test and WGS identified additional aminoglycoside-, sulphonamide- and trimethoprim-resistance genes. Conclusion: To our knowledge, this is the first study on FDC resistance in Croatia. The diffusion of FDC-resistant isolates was detected in both hospital and outpatient settings, emphasizing the need for a “One Health” approach.
Evidence for a Functional Link Between the Nrf2 Signalling Pathway and Cytoprotective Effect of S-Petasin in Human Retinal Pigment Epithelium Cells Exposed to Oxidative Stress
Authors: Pizzoferrato Michela , Lazzarino Giacomo , Brancato Anna , Tabolacci Elisabetta , Clementi Maria Elisabetta , Tringali Giuseppe
Published: February 2025

The retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is a highly specialised monolayer epithelium subjected to constant oxidative stress, which, in the long term, favours the development of a complex pathological process that is the underlying cause of macular damage. Therefore, counteracting the overproduction of ROS is the best-researched approach to preserve the functional integrity of the RPE. S-Petasin, a secondary metabolite extracted from the plant Petasites hybridus, has numerous biological effects, which highlight its anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties. The aim of our study is to investigate whether S-Petasin exerts cytoprotective effects by protecting the RPE from oxidative damage. The effects of pretreatment with S-Petasin were assessed by the determination of the cell viability, intracellular ROS levels, activation of the Nrf2 pathway and the resulting post-transcriptional antioxidant/antiapoptotic response. Our results show that S-Petasin pretreatment (1) reduces intracellular ROS levels, improving cell viability of RPE exposed to oxidative damage; (2) activates the Nrf2 signalling pathway, modulating the post-transcriptional response of its antioxidant chemical biomarkers; (3) reduces the Bax levels, and an increase in those of Bcl-2, with a concomitant downregulation of the Bax/Bc-2 ratio. Overall, our results provide the first evidence that S-Petasin is able to protect the RPE from oxidative damage.
Transcription Factor Blimp-1: A Central Regulator of Oxidative Stress and Metabolic Reprogramming in Chronic Inflammatory Diseases
Authors: Wang Aline Yen Ling , Aviña Ana Elena , Liu Yen-Yu , Chang Yun-Ching , Kao Huang-Kai
Published: February 2025

B-lymphocyte-induced maturation protein 1 (Blimp-1) is a transcription factor that, among other functions, modulates metabolism and helps to regulate antioxidant pathways, which is important in the context of chronic inflammatory diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and autoimmune disease. In immune cell function, Blimp-1 has a modulatory role in the orchestration of metabolic reprogramming and as a promoter of anti-inflammatory cytokines, including IL-10, responsible for modulating oxidative stress and immune homeostasis. Moreover, Blimp-1 also modulates key metabolic aspects, such as glycolysis and fatty acid oxidation, which regulate reactive oxygen species levels, as well as tissue protection. This review depicts Blimp-1 as an important regulator of antioxidant defenses and anti-inflammation and suggests that the protein could serve as a therapeutic target in chronic inflammatory and metabolic dysregulation conditions. The modulation of Blimp-1 in diseases such as diabetic coronary heart disease and atherosclerosis could alleviate oxidative stress, augment the protection of tissues, and improve disease outcomes. The therapeutic potential for the development of new treatments for these chronic conditions lies in the synergy between the regulation of Blimp-1 and antioxidant therapies, which are future directions that may be pursued. This review emphasizes Blimp-1’s emerging importance as a novel regulator in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases, providing new opportunities for therapeutic intervention.
The Role of Sensory Cues in Collective Dynamics: A Study of Three-Dimensional Vicsek Models
Authors: Ramlall Poorendra , Roy Subhradeep
Published: February 2025

This study presents a three-dimensional collective motion model that integrates auditory and visual sensing modalities, inspired by organisms like bats that rely on these senses for navigation. Most existing models of collective motion consider vision-based sensing, likely reflecting an inherent human bias towards visual perception. However, many organisms utilize multiple sensory modalities, and this study explores how the integration of these distinct sensory inputs influences group behavior. We investigate a generalized scenario of three-dimensional motion, an area not previously explored for combining sensory information. Through numerical simulations, we investigate the combined impact of auditory and visual sensing on group behavior, contrasting these effects with those observed when relying solely on vision or audition. The results demonstrate that composite sensing allows particles to interact with more neighbors, thereby gaining more information. This interaction allows the formation of a single, large, perfectly aligned group using a narrow sensing region, achievable by taking advantage of the mechanics of both auditory and visual sensing. Our findings demonstrate the importance of integrating multiple sensory modalities in shaping emergent group behavior, with potential applications in both biological studies and the development of robotic swarms.
Influence of Selected Parameters of Medium-Voltage Network on the Value of Voltage Asymmetry Factors
Authors: Hołdyński Grzegorz , Skibko Zbigniew
Published: February 2025

The correct and safe operation of electricity grids is a fundamental consideration in guaranteeing the supply of electricity with the correct parameters to consumers. One of the key aspects is how neutral point earthing works. In grids with the neutral point grounded by a Petersen coil, it is very important to properly tune its inductance in relation to the natural capacitance of the power grid. This is important both for the proper operation of earth fault protection and from the point of view of power quality, especially voltage asymmetry. Asymmetry of phase voltages in MV networks has a very negative impact on the operation of the railway network supplied by 12-pulse rectifiers. In this paper, the authors present the influence of the detuning factor of the earth fault compensation and the length and cross-section of the line on the value of voltage asymmetry factors. As the analyses carried out have shown, significant (up to 90%) values of the zero-sequence asymmetry factor can occur at low detuning, which can contribute not only to a decrease in the quality of the transmitted electricity but also to the unnecessary activation of protections. The values of the negative-sequence voltage asymmetry factor are much smaller (do not exceed 0.5% in the analysed cases) and do not depend on the network detuning factor. As the distance from the substation increases, an increase in the values of both types of asymmetry factors is also observed, with the relationship already negligibly small at considerable distances (above 20 km).
Investigating the Effects of Fish Effluents as Organic Fertilisers on Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Authors: Fruscella Lorenzo , Kotzen Benz , Paradelo Perez Marcos , Milliken Sarah
Published: February 2025

Whilst the potential of fish effluents as nutrient sources for crop production has been demonstrated, their use in the European Union remains prohibited in organic farming. In this study, we investigate the efficacy in greenhouse basil cultivation of two types of fish effluents (filtered ‘fish water’ and unfiltered ‘fish sludge’) from an aquaponic system, and assess their role in maintaining and enhancing soil fertility as well as their potential to create a ’living soil’, which are two of the prerequisites for organic certification in the EU. To evaluate the contribution of fish effluents to plant growth in comparison with soil nutrients, basil plants were grown in pots containing two types of substrate: compost-free (without organic matter) and with compost (with organic matter). The results indicate that fish water and fish sludge demonstrate significant potential as fertilisers and outperform compost in certain parameters, such as plant biomass. The results also align with existing literature by demonstrating the positive impact of compost on soil microbial diversity, underscoring its role in fostering plant health. Although the treatments did not show differences in microbial composition at the genus level, the higher microbial diversity observed following fish effluent application highlights its potential for promoting ’living soil’. This research underscores the need for continued exploration of the implications of compost application in conjunction with fish effluent fertilisation on soil microbial communities and the production of specialty crops such as herbs.
The Strain Heterogeneity and Microstructural Shear Bands in AZ31B Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Zhang Qinghui , Zhang Xuhui , Yang Xiaojuan , Huang Min
Published: February 2025

In this study, the strain distribution and microstructural evolution of the AZ31B magnesium alloy were analyzed via uniaxial tensile loading combined with an in situ tensile test. The results conclusively showed that the strain on the AZ31B magnesium alloy’s surface is not uniform during tensile loading in a specific direction, and the emergence of localized twins fosters the development of densely intersecting shear bands, whereas prismatic slip intensified the strain concentration within these bands, ultimately bolstering their strength. These densely packed, discrete shear bands exhibited a dual role: they stabilized plastic deformation processes while simultaneously contributing to material failure. By elucidating the intricate relationship between grain orientation, evolution of the microstructure, and mechanical properties, we could effectively mitigate the detrimental orientations and deformations in anisotropic-polycrystalline materials to enhance their plasticity. The research carries paramount scientific significance and is the key to maximizing the engineering application potential of the AZ31B magnesium alloy.
Research on Grouting Pressure of Earth–Rock Dams Reinforced by Polymer Based on Discrete Elements
Authors: Lv Yanyuan , Wang Jianxin , Li Hongmei , Zhu Jianing
Published: February 2025

As a novel seismic reinforcement measure for earth–rock dams, the PFA-reinforced rockfill materials technology lacks comprehensive investigation into both its reinforcement efficacy and the underlying mechanisms. In this study, we establish a fluid–solid coupling model of PFA-reinforced rockfill materials utilizing the matrix discrete element software MatDEM3.24, developed independently by Nanjing University. The model simulates the dynamic process of polymer grouting within the rockfill body and analyzes the impact of slurry diffusion patterns and various grouting pressures on polymer grouting. Our findings reveal that the diffusion of polymer foam in rockfill occurs in three distinct stages, which are characteristic of penetration grouting. Moreover, we observed that grouting pressure had a significant effect on the diffusion range of the slurry, with greater sensitivity noted in the Z direction. Additionally, we observed a decrease in porosity with increasing grouting pressure, and stress augmentation exhibited an approximately linear relationship with grouting pressure, but the stress augmentation in different directions was different. These research outcomes offer valuable insights into the practical implementation and optimization of PFA-reinforced rockfill materials technology, bearing considerable engineering implications.
Application of Biotechnology for Sunflower Inbred Line Development: Immature Embryo Rescue
Authors: Onisan Emilian , Petolescu Cerasela , Tenche-Constantinescu Alina , Petrescu Irina , Horablaga Marinel Nicolae , Simina Alina , Gorinoiu Gabriela , Camen Dorin , Popescu Sorina , Mate Cristian , Sarac Ioan
Published: February 2025

Immature embryos rescued in sunflower breeding programs represent one of the important procedures for creating a competitive research program. The development of inbred lines in a short period offers a significant advantage, enabling faster adaptation of sunflower hybrids to farmers’ needs, including new herbicide technologies, such as existing sulfonylurea- and imidazoline-based treatments or the introgression of new disease-resistant genes. In our research, we initiated immature embryo rescue by harvesting at 168 h, 216 h, 264 h, and 312 h after fecundations. The media used were based on MS (Murashige and Skoog) and supplemented with different concentrations of BAP, NAA, and GA3. For the experiments, three types of genotypes were used: inbred lines, populations, and sunflower hybrids. Our results demonstrated a significant connection between harvest timing, the medium used, and the genotype. The highest survival rates were recorded as up to 81% for hybrids and 71% for inbred lines. For immature embryo rescue, they were obtained at 312 h on MS5—2.0:0.4:0.4 (BAP:NAA:GA3). The genotype, culture medium composition, and harvesting time are essential factors for optimizing the in vitro rescue technique of immature sunflower embryos. The survival rates of immature embryos were significantly influenced by the interaction of these factors.
NTS-YOLO: A Nocturnal Traffic Sign Detection Method Based on Improved YOLOv5
Authors: He Yong , Guo Mengqi , Zhang Yongchuan , Xia Jun , Geng Xuelai , Zou Tao , Ding Rui
Published: February 2025

Accurate traffic sign recognition is one of the core technologies of intelligent driving systems, which face multiple challenges such as insufficient light and shadow interference at night. In this paper, we improve the YOLOv5 model for small, fuzzy, and partially occluded traffic sign targets at night and propose a high-precision nighttime traffic sign recognition method, “NTS-YOLO”. The method firstly preprocessed the traffic sign dataset by adopting an unsupervised nighttime image enhancement method to improve the image quality under low-light conditions; secondly, it introduced the Convolutional Block Attention Module (CBAM) attentional mechanism, which focuses on the shape of the traffic sign by weighting the channel and spatial features inside the model and color to improve the perception under complex background and uneven illumination conditions; and finally, the Optimal Transport Assignment (OTA) loss function was adopted to optimize the accuracy of predicting the bounding box and thus improve the performance of the model by comparing the difference between two probability distributions, i.e., minimizing the difference. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the method, 154 samples of typical traffic signs containing small targets and fuzzy and partially occluded traffic signs with different lighting conditions at nighttime were collected, and the data samples were subjected to the CBAM, OTA, and a combination of the two methods, respectively, and comparative experiments were conducted with the traditional YOLOv5 algorithm. The experimental results showed that “NTS-YOLO” achieved a significant performance improvement in nighttime traffic sign recognition, with a mean average accuracy improvement of 0.95% for the target detection of traffic signs and 0.17% for instance segmentation.
Effects on Performance, Perception, and Awareness of Plyometric Training in Youth Volleyball: A Novel Methodological Approach to Training
Authors: Raiola Gaetano , Esposito Giovanni , Aliberti Sara , D’Elia Francesca
Published: February 2025

Plyometric training is known to improve jump height in volleyball, but few studies address athletes’ perception and awareness of its benefits. This gap limits its full potential for enhancing performance. This study examines young non-elite volleyball athletes’ awareness of plyometric training effects. A sample of 24 athletes (mean age 18.3 ± 3.8 years) was divided into an experimental group (EXP) and a control group (CON), each with 12 participants. The EXP group underwent plyometric training, while the CON group performed basic technical exercises. Performance and perceptions were assessed using the Spike Jump Test and surveys at pre-, mid-, and post-training phases. The EXP group showed significant vertical jump improvement, from a pre-training mean of 30.14 cm to 32.22 cm post-training, confirmed by the Friedman test (p = 0.00). In contrast, the CON group showed no significant changes (p = 0.47). Perception scores in the EXP group improved significantly, from 3.33 to 4.16, indicating enhanced awareness of plyometric training benefits, whereas the CON group showed no significant changes (p = 0.35). These findings highlight the dual benefits of plyometric training in improving both jump performance and awareness of its effectiveness, emphasizing the value of integrating perception into training for volleyball athletes.
Concept Protocol for Developing a DAid® Smart Socks-Based Biofeedback System: Enhancing Injury Prevention in Football Through Real-Time Biomechanical Monitoring and Mixed Reality Feedback
Authors: Davidovica Anna , Semjonova Guna , Kamynina Lydia , Lancere Linda , Jonate Alise , Tomsone Signe , Katasevs Aleksejs , Okss Aleksandrs , Davidovics Sergejs
Published: February 2025

Football players, particularly in youth leagues, face a high risk of lower limb injuries due to improper movement patterns. While programs like FIFA 11+ help reduce injuries, they lack real-time, personalized feedback for biomechanical correction. This concept protocol outlines the development of a DAid® smart socks-based biofeedback system that integrates biomechanical monitoring with mixed reality (MR) feedback to enhance injury prevention. The DAid® smart socks, equipped with pressure sensors and inertial measurement units (IMUs), track plantar pressure distribution and the center of pressure (COP). Real-time feedback is delivered via a Meta Quest 3 MR headset, enabling athletes to adjust movement patterns instantly. This protocol establishes a framework for evaluating the system’s feasibility and effectiveness in optimizing biomechanics and reducing injury risks. By combining wearable technology with MR-based feedback, this study advances injury prevention strategies, with potential applications in rehabilitation and performance training.
Treatment Response to Oncolytic Virus in Patient-Derived Breast Cancer and Hypopharyngeal Cancer Organoids: Evaluation via a Microfluidics Organ-on-a-Chip System
Authors: Sun Yu , Liu Jiaqi , Zhu Li , Huang Fang , Dong Yanbo , Liu Shuang , Chen Siyi , Ji Wei , Lu Jingjing , Liu Liangfa , Li Shanhu
Published: February 2025

In this study, we present an oncolytic virus (OV) evaluation system established using microfluidic organ-on-a-chip (OOC) systems and patient-derived organoids (PDOs), which was used in the development of a novel oncolytic virus, AD4-GHPE. An OV offers advantages such as good targeting ability and minimal side effects, and it has achieved significant breakthroughs when combined with immunotherapy in recent clinical trials. The development of OVs has become an emerging research focus. PDOs can preserve the heterogeneity of in situ tumor tissues, whereas microfluidic OOC systems can automate and standardize various experimental procedures. These systems have been applied in cutting-edge drug screening and cell therapy experiments; however, their use in functionally complex oncolytic viruses remains to be explored. In this study, we constructed a novel recombinant oncolytic adenovirus, AD4-GHPE, and evaluated OOC systems and PDOs through various functional validations in hypopharyngeal and breast cancer organoids. The results confirmed that AD4-GHPE exhibits three antitumor mechanisms, namely, tumor-specific cytotoxicity, a reduction in programmed death ligand 1 (PD-L1) expression in tumor cells to increase CD8+ T-cell activity, and granulocyte–macrophage colony-stimulating factor (GM-CSF) secretion. The evaluation system combining OOC systems and PDOs was efficient and reliable, providing personalized OV treatment recommendations for patients and offering industrialized and standardized research ideas for the development of OVs.
Brain Stimulation for Psychiatric Disorders: Emerging Evidence and New Perspectives
Authors: Lisoni Jacopo , Barlati Stefano
Published: February 2025

Currently, several Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation (NIBS) techniques are available for clinical application in psychiatric disorders (including major depressive disorder, MDD, and obsessive–compulsive disorder) or are under investigation (including schizophrenia, eating, substance use, and neurodevelopmental disorders) [...]
Assessing Post-Fire Damage in Concrete Structures: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Ibrahim Eneye A. , Goff Dale , Keyvanfar Ali , Jonaidi Mohammad
Published: February 2025

Bridge fires present unique challenges due to their potential for catastrophic structural failures, leading to extensive traffic disruptions, economic losses, and, in some cases, loss of life. In the aftermath of a fire incident, assessing the structural integrity and future viability of concrete bridges has become a paramount concern for civil engineers and safety inspectors. The critical decision to rehabilitate or demolish a fire-damaged structure hinges on accurately assessing the extent of damage incurred. Enhancing the fire resilience of concrete structures is a critical endeavor within civil engineering, necessitating accurate evaluation methods to analyze conditions after fire exposure. Focusing on concrete bridges, this study aimed to establish a comprehensive review of research on the effects of fire, providing engineers with the necessary means to develop guidelines for post-fire assessment to enhance safety and operational readiness. It proposes an in-depth examination of various methods as strategic decision-making tools. The assessment involves estimating the temperature, the extent of damage to concrete, and the reduction in the strength of both concrete and reinforcement. To achieve this, a detailed review of the existing literature on the impact of fire on concrete and its steel reinforcements is conducted. Current post-fire assessment tools have also been evaluated to improve the efficiency of the evaluation process. This study establishes a systematic post-fire assessment review framework that incorporates assessment information domains (including non-destructive testing, destructive testing, advanced computational modeling, and digital-twin technology) to provide a practical solution for accurately determining the safety and operational readiness of fire-damaged concrete bridges.
Nonlinear Impact Analysis of Urban Road Traffic Carbon Emissions Based on the Integration of Gasoline and Electric Vehicles
Authors: Xie Dongcheng , Shi Xingzi , Li Kai , Li Jinwei , Li Gen
Published: February 2025

With the rapid proliferation of electric vehicles (EVs) in China, the landscape of transportation carbon emissions has undergone significant changes. However, research on the impact of the built environment on the carbon emissions of mixed traffic from gasoline and electric vehicles remains sparse. This paper focuses on urban traffic scenarios with a mix of gasoline and electric vehicles, analyzing the spatiotemporal distribution of carbon emissions from both types of vehicles and their nonlinear association with the built environment. Utilizing trajectory data from gasoline-powered and electric taxis in Chengdu, China, we establish segment-level carbon emission estimation models based on the vehicle-specific power of gasoline vehicles and the equivalent energy consumption of electric vehicles. Subsequently, we employ the XGBoost algorithm and SHapley Additive ExPlanation (SHAP) to analyze the nonlinear relationships between 13 built environment variables and vehicle carbon emissions. This paper reveals that most built environment variables exhibit nonlinear relationships with traffic carbon emissions, with five factors—population density, road density, residential density, metro accessibility, and the number of parking lots—having a significant impact on road carbon emissions. Finally, we discuss the carbon reduction benefits of EV adoption and propose policy recommendations for low-carbon initiatives in the transportation field.
Influence of Secondary Porosity Introduction via Top-Down Methods on MOR, ZSM-5, and Y Zeolites on Their Cumene Cracking Performance
Authors: Souza Josué C. , Mello Mariele I. S. , Barbosa Felipe F. , Souza Iane M. S. , Sachse Alexander , Pergher Sibele B. C.
Published: February 2025

The influence of secondary porosity and the dimensionality of zeolitic structures with 1D and 3D pore systems on the accessibility of cumene to Brønsted acid sites was evaluated in this study. Zeolites Y, ZSM-5, and MOR, obtained through NH4F leaching and basic and acid treatments, were studied. Zeolites Y and ZSM-5 showed a significant increase in specific surface area while maintaining the micropore volume as well as an increase in the concentration of Brønsted acid sites following treatment. Zeolite MOR exhibited an increase in mesopore volume and retained Brønsted acidity. The impact of the treatments on catalytic properties was evaluated through cumene cracking, which yielded high catalytic conversion for the materials. This result is consistent with the goal of the model reaction to characterize Brønsted acid sites, enhance accessibility, and reduce diffusion paths.
Metabolomics and Transcriptomics Jointly Explore the Mechanism of Pod Color Variation in Purple Pod Pea
Authors: Zhong Xiaojuan , Yang Mei , Zhang Xiaoyan , Fan Yuanfang , Wang Xianshu , Xiang Chao
Published: February 2025

Although the pod color was one of the seven characteristics Mendel studied in peas, the mechanism of color variation in peas with purple pods has not been reported. This study systemically analyzed the difference between two pea accessions with green pods (GPs) and purple pods (PPs) at two pod developmental stages from the metabolome and transcriptome levels, aiming to preliminarily explore the mechanism and of color variation in PPs and screen out the candidate genes. A total of 180 differentially accumulated metabolites (DAMs) belonged to seven flavonoid subgroups and 23 flavonoid-related differentially expressed genes (DEGs) were identified from the analysis of the KEGG (Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes) pathway enrichment, respectively. Among the 180 flavonoid metabolites, ten anthocyanin compounds, which were the principal pigments in PPs and might be the major reason for the purple color formation, were significantly up-accumulated in both of the different pod development stages of PPs. A transcriptome analysis revealed that eight genes encoding enzymes (C4H, CHI, F3H, F3’H, F3’5’H, DFR, ANS, and FLS) involved in the flavonoid synthesis pathway were significantly upregulated in PPs and finally resulted in the significant accumulation of flavonoid and anthocyanin metabolites. The joint analysis of two omics and a weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) also screened out that the WD-40 protein-encoding gene, one WRKY and three MYB transcription factor genes exhibited significant upregulation in PPs, and highly correlated with several structural genes in flavonoid synthesis pathways, indicating that these genes are involved in the regulation of pod color formation in PPs. Overall, the results of this study first explored the mechanism underlying the purple color variation between PPs and GPs, and then preliminarily screened out some candidate genes responsible for the pod color formation in PPs.
Temperature Dependence of the Dynamical and DC Conductivity in 2D Dirac Systems: Self-Consistent Random-Phase-Approximation Approach
Authors: Kupčić Ivan , Papac Patrik
Published: February 2025

We studied relaxation processes in heavily doped two-dimensional Dirac systems associated with electron scattering by acoustic and optical phonons and by static disorder. The frequency dependence of the real and imaginary parts of the relaxation function is calculated for different temperatures. The two-component low-frequency dynamical conductivity is found to be strongly dependent on temperature. At low temperatures, the imaginary part of the zero-frequency relaxation function and the DC resistivity are characterized by the scaling law aTx with the exponent x between 2.5 and 3.