bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of Multiomics Data Reveals Selection Characteristics of ITGB1 That Are Associated with Size Differentiation in Pigs
Authors: Wu Guandong , Yu Miao , Liu Tianxin , Zhang Dongjie , Chang Yang , Liu Zhonghua , Liu Di , Xu Chunzhu
Published: February 2025

Min pigs, a prominent local breed from Northeast China, have diverged into two distinct breeds, Ermin (EM) pigs and Hebao (HB) pigs, through prolonged natural and artificial selection. Although these two breeds exhibit distinct differences in body size, the genetic mechanisms underlying this variation remain poorly understood. In this study, we performed whole-genome resequencing and transcriptome analysis on EM and HB pigs to elucidate the genetic basis of body size variation in Min pigs through genome-wide selection signal analysis and the identification of differentially expressed genes (DEGs). The analysis of genetic diversity and population genetic structure across 14 pig breeds revealed that, compared with other breeds, Min pigs present relatively high genetic diversity and a unique genetic structure. Notably, EM pigs exhibited significant genetic differentiation from HB pigs. Integrated analysis of whole-genome resequencing and transcriptome data revealed candidate genes associated with body size variation in Min pigs, including ENPP1, ENPP3, SPP1, CLU, ITGA11, ITGB1, IQGAP2, BMP7, and F2RL2. These genes are enriched primarily in pathways related to ECM–receptor interactions; pantothenate and CoA biosynthesis; starch and sucrose metabolism; nicotinate and nicotinamide metabolism; pyrimidine metabolism; nucleotide metabolism; cellular responses to lipids; biomineral tissue development; biomineralization; and other pathways related to cell signaling, metabolic responses, lipid deposition, and skeletal development. Notably, ITGB1 on chromosome 10 showed strong positive selection in EM pigs, with an SNP locus exhibiting a significant G/A allele frequency difference between EM pigs (G = 52.94%, A = 47.06%) and HB pigs (G = 0%, A = 100%). Our findings suggest that Min pigs potentially modulate lipid metabolism efficiency in adipose tissue through variations in the expression of the ITGB1 gene, potentially contributing to body size differences. These results provide new insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying body size variation in domestic pigs and serve as a valuable reference for identifying and breeding pig breeds with distinct body sizes.
Iron Overload-Related Oxidative Stress Leads to Hyperphosphorylation and Altered Anion Exchanger 1 (Band 3) Function in Erythrocytes from Subjects with β-Thalassemia Minor
Authors: Spinelli Sara , Straface Elisabetta , Gambardella Lucrezia , Caruso Daniele , Dossena Silvia , Marino Angela , Morabito Rossana , Remigante Alessia
Published: February 2025

β-thalassemia, a hereditary hemoglobinopathy, is caused by reduced or absent synthesis of the β-globin chains of hemoglobin. Three clinical conditions are recognized: β-thalassemia major, β-thalassemia intermedia, and β-thalassemia minor (β-Thal+). This latter condition occurs when an individual inherits a mutated β-globin gene from one parent. In erythrocytes from β-Thal+ subjects, the excess α-globin chains produce unstable α-tetramers, which can induce substantial oxidative stress leading to plasma membrane and cytoskeleton damage, as well as deranged cellular function. In the present study, we hypothesized that increased oxidative stress might lead to structural rearrangements in erythrocytes from β-Thal+ volunteers and functional alterations of ion transport proteins, including band 3 protein. The data obtained showed significant modifications of the cellular shape in erythrocytes from β-Thal+ subjects. In particular, a significantly increased number of elliptocytes was observed. Interestingly, iron overload, detected in erythrocytes from β-Thal+ subjects, provoked a significant production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), overactivation of the endogenous antioxidant enzymes catalase and superoxide dismutase, and glutathione depletion, resulting in (a) increased lipid peroxidation, (b) protein sulfhydryl group (-SH) oxidation. Iron overload-related oxidative stress affected Na+/K+-ATPase activity, which in turn may have contributed to impaired β-Thal+ erythrocyte deformability. As a result, alterations in the distribution of cytoskeletal proteins, including α/β-spectrin, protein 4.1, and α-actin, in erythrocytes from β-Thal+ subjects have been detected. Significantly, oxidative stress was also associated with increased phosphorylation and altered band 3 ion transport activity, as well as increased oxidized hemoglobin, which led to abnormal clustering and redistribution of band 3 on the plasma membrane. Taken together, these findings contribute to elucidating potential oxidative stress-related perturbations of ion transporters and associated cytoskeletal proteins, which may affect erythrocyte and systemic homeostasis in β-Thal+ subjects.
ORUD-Detect: A Comprehensive Approach to Offensive Language Detection in Roman Urdu Using Hybrid Machine Learning–Deep Learning Models with Embedding Techniques
Authors: Hussain Nisar , Qasim Amna , Mehak Gull , Kolesnikova Olga , Gelbukh Alexander , Sidorov Grigori
Published: February 2025

With the rapid expansion of social media, detecting offensive language has become critically important for healthy online interactions. This poses a considerable challenge for low-resource languages such as Roman Urdu which are widely spoken on platforms like Facebook. In this paper, we perform a comprehensive study of offensive language detection models on Roman Urdu datasets using both Machine Learning (ML) and Deep Learning (DL) approaches. We present a dataset of 89,968 Facebook comments and extensive preprocessing techniques such as TF-IDF features, Word2Vec, and fastText embeddings to address linguistic idiosyncrasies and code-mixed aspects of Roman Urdu. Among the ML models, a linear kernel Support Vector Machine (SVM) model scored the best performance, with an F1 score of 94.76, followed by SVM models with radial and polynomial kernels. Even the use of BoW uni-gram features with naive Bayes produced competitive results, with an F1 score of 94.26. The DL models performed well, with Bi-LSTM returning an F1 score of 98.00 with Word2Vec embeddings and fastText-based Bi-RNN performing at 97.00, showcasing the inference of contextual embeddings and soft similarity. The CNN model also gave a good result, with an F1 score of 96.00. The CNN model also achieved an F1 score of 96.00. This study presents hybrid ML and DL approaches to improve offensive language detection approaches for low-resource languages. This research opens up new doors to providing safer online environments for widespread Roman Urdu users.
Dental Implant Rehabilitation of Posterior Maxillary Edentulism via Sinus Augmentation Using the Lateral Window Technique: A Retrospective Analysis of 289 Implants Followed Up for 15 Years
Authors: Sağlanmak Alper , Arısan Volkan , Karabuda Cüneyt , Özyuvacı Hakan
Published: February 2025

The aim of this study was to analyze the marginal bone loss and survival of implants in the augmented sinus area via the lateral window approach. The effect of sinus membrane perforation as well as splinting of the upper structure was analyzed. Two hundred and eighty-nine implants were placed in the sinus areas augmented with xenografts and collagen membranes in 101 patients. Clinical and radiographic data were obtained during recall visits. The Marginal Bone Loss (MBL) and Cumulative Survival Rate (CSR) were evaluated. The mean follow-up period was 12.4 years (range: 12 to 182 months). During the follow-up period, 19 implants were lost, yielding a 92.93% survival rate. No significant models for any of the covariates were found in terms of implant survival (p = 0.08). Similarly, no significant differences were observed between intact and perforated sinuses (p = 0.41) or between splinted or single standing implants (p = 0.11). The overall MBL reached 1.80 ± 0.56 mm at 15 years, and no significant differences were detected between any particular years (p = 0.12). Dental implant rehabilitation of the posterior maxilla via sinus augmentation using the lateral window technique is safe, effective and provides a high long-term implant survival with minimal prosthetic complications.
Microstructure, Thermal, and Mechanical Behavior of NiTi Shape Memory Alloy Obtained by Micro Wire and Arc Direct Energy Deposition
Authors: da Silva Tadeu C. , Sallica-Leva Edwin , Rayón Emilio , Santos Claudio T. , Filho João C. A. D. , Volpato Neri , Lima Dalton D. , Dornelas Paulo H. G. , Tavares Sergio S. M. , Santos Telmo G.
Published: February 2025

Additive manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing the fabrication of metallic components, offering significant potential to compete with or complement traditional casting, forging, and machining processes, and enabling the production of complex functional components. Recent advancements in AM technology have facilitated the processing of shape memory alloys (SMAs) with functional properties comparable to those of conventionally processed alloys. However, the AM of NiTi SMAs remains underexplored due to the extreme complexity of the process, high melting point, and reactivity with oxygen. This study investigates the impact of AM processing on the shape memory properties of NiTi alloys using the Micro Wire and Arc Directed Energy Deposition (μ-WA-DED) technique in short circuit mode with a pioneering 0.3 mm pre-alloyed wire, focusing on increasing precision and control in the deposition process. The macroscopic morphology, microstructure, phase composition, phase-transformation temperatures, and mechanical properties of each deposited layer were analyzed. Results indicated austenite (B2) as the predominant phase, with retained martensite (B19′) and a reversible martensitic transformation (B2 ⇌ B19′) in the second layer. Mechanical characterization revealed variations in hardness (H) and elastic modulus (E) due to microstructural heterogeneity and composition. The first layer exhibited H = 3.8 GPa and E = 70 GPa, associated with the B2-NiTi phase, while higher values were obtained in the second layer, i.e., E = 100 GPa and H = 7 GPa. This study establishes for the first time the feasibility of NiTi alloy deposition with a 0.3 mm wire, setting a new standard for future research and applications in AM using μ-WA-DED.
Development and Evaluation of Magnetite Loaded Alginate Beads Based Nanocomposite for Enhanced Targeted Analgesic Drug Delivery
Authors: Das Amrita , Sengupta Prateep , Chatterjee Shreya , Khanam Jasmina , Mondal Pranab Kumar , Romero Eder Lilia , Manakhov Anton M. , Thomas Sabu , Mahmood Syed , Ghosal Kajal
Published: February 2025

Iron oxide-based nanoparticles, such as magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs), have gained significant attention in the area of drug delivery due to their unique magnetic properties, allowing for precise targeting and controlled release of therapeutic agents. Several successful research studies were reported with combinations of magnetic nanoparticles and polysaccharides such as sodium alginate, chitosan, cellulose, etc. The presented research work is based on synthesising MNPs via the co-precipitation method and their successful encapsulation within alginate beads, serving as a promising drug delivery system for aceclofenac, a model drug. The physical and chemical characteristics of both the prepared magnetite nanoparticles and the aceclofenac-loaded MNPs alginate beads were thoroughly examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), and vibrating sample magnetometry (VSM). Furthermore, a drug release study was conducted to evaluate the release kinetics of aceclofenac from the prepared MNP alginate beads. The magnetic characteristics of magnetite and MNP beads shed light on the potential application of novel drug delivery systems for magnetically targeted therapeutic interventions. The present research offers valuable insights into the development of magnetic nanoparticle-based drug carriers, paving the way for enhanced drug delivery strategies in the field of pharmaceutical sciences.
Correction: Atalay et al. Fabrication of a Portable Magnetic Microcantilever Using Fe40Ni38Mo4B18 Amorphous Ribbon and Its Application as a Humidity Sensor by Coating with TiO2 Nanotubes. Magnetochemistry 2024, 10, 98
Authors: Atalay Selçuk , Erdemoglu Sema , Çağlar Yılmaz Hatice , Mete Emine , Inan Orhan Orcun , Kolat Veli Serkan
Published: February 2025

In the original publication [...]
The Resilience of an Urban Rail Transit Network: An Evaluation Approach Based on a Weighted Coupled Map Lattice Model
Authors: Wang Yuhao , Liu Jie , Li Zhouyu
Published: February 2025

Modeling cascading failure in an urban rail transit network (URTN) is essential for evaluating the impact of interruptions and network resilience. Here, a weighted coupled map lattice (CML) model is proposed. This model combines structural network coupling and passenger flow coupling to analyze the cascading failure process triggered by a station failure. Four network performance indicators are developed: network efficiency and subgraph connectivity from the network structure perspective, and OD connectivity and the reciprocal of average transfers from the network service perspective. The resilience of a URTN is measured based on the network performance indicators during station failures. Application of the model to the Wuhan URTN showed that station failure with high numbers of boarding and alighting passengers caused the highest decline in network resilience. The network’s structural resilience was stronger than its service resilience. The relationship between the percentage of failed stations and network performance indicated a significant threshold effect at a 5% failure percentage. Specifically, network performance decreased rapidly when the percentage of failed stations was below 5% and more gradually when it exceeded this threshold. Moreover, network performance exhibited high sensitivity to increases in external perturbation intensity when the failure station percentage was below 5%, but this sensitivity diminished significantly once the percentage surpassed 5%.
A Unified Control System with Autonomous Collision-Free and Trajectory-Tracking Abilities for Unmanned Surface Vessels Under Effects of Modeling Certainties and Ocean Environmental Disturbances
Authors: Lee Chun-Yen , Sun Cheng-Yen , Hung I-Ching , Chen Yung-Yue
Published: February 2025

A unified control system that possesses the abilities to arrange collision-free trajectories, precise trajectory tracking, and control allocation for unmanned surface vessels is investigated in this paper by integrating methods, including an image-based trajectory generator, a nonlinear robust controller, and a control allocation maker. For the purpose of rapidly generating an optimal collision-free trajectory, a rapid image-searching method, named double-sided Finite Angle A* (FAA*), is developed to cooperate with a continuous trajectory generator. This proposed control system provides an effective means for letting controlled unmanned surface vessels be able to execute given tasks by following collision-free trajectories under the influences of modeling uncertainties and ocean environmental disturbances. To eliminate the effects of modeling uncertainties and ocean environmental disturbances, a robust compensator is developed to co-work with a nonlinear control law. Furthermore, the required robust control commands are perfectly performed by a pair of rotatable actuators with an analytical control allocation design. Finally, two demonstrations are examined to validate the control performance of this proposed unified control system.
Recovering Ammonia as Ammonium Citrate and Ammonium Sulfate from Sludge Digestion Liquors Using Membrane Contactors in a Pilot Plant
Authors: Reyes Alva Ricardo , Mohr Marius , Tovar Günter E. M. , Zibek Susanne
Published: February 2025

Membrane contactors have proved to be effective for recovering ammonia from wastewater by absorbing it into a trapping solution. This study compares the performance of sulfuric acid and citric acid as trapping solutions in a pilot-scale plant for recovering ammonia from sludge digestion liquors using membrane contactors in a liquid–liquid configuration operating at pH 10 and a temperature of 37 °C and using ultrafiltration (UF) technology as pretreatment. The performance of the process using sulfuric acid at a lower pH (9.5) and temperature (30 °C) was also studied, as well as the advantage of including a CO2-stripping module in the process. The ammonia elimination efficiency was 88% and 86% when using sulfuric acid and citric acid, respectively. The nitrogen concentration of the produced ammonium sulfate and ammonium citrate reached 23.2 and 14.7 g NH3-N·L−1, respectively. The ammonia elimination efficiency when using sulfuric acid decreased to 49% when decreasing the pH to 9.5 and to 85% when decreasing the temperature to 31 °C. UF technology was able to reduce the concentration of suspended solids by 90% and the chemical oxygen demand by 37%. However, the UF membranes for the pretreatment and the membrane contactors for ammonia recovery had to be constantly cleaned with acid due to scaling, which significantly increased maintenance efforts. The CO2-stripping module reduced the consumption of the caustic soda solution by 23% for increasing the pH level of the treated water. Finally, the specific energy consumption of the plant was 8 kWh·m−3.
Investigation on Laser Weldability of a 2.1 GPa-Grade Hot Stamping Steel with Medium Carbon Content
Authors: Huang Jiming , Shang Xuekun , Li Liejun , Liang Zhiyuan
Published: February 2025

This investigation aimed at evaluating the weldability of a 2.1 GPa-grade hot stamping steel (HSS) containing 0.40 wt.% carbon using laser butt welding. It is shown that the subject HSS can be properly joined by laser welding without welding defects, such as voids and micro-cracks. The mechanical properties of joints before and after hot stamping were examined using cross-weld uniaxial tension and Vickers hardness, while microstructure was systematically characterized using optical microscopy and electron backscatter diffraction. The experimental results demonstrate that fresh martensite was formed in the weld nugget after welding, leading to a hardness much higher than that of the base metal. Nevertheless, such cross-weld microstructural heterogeneity was erased after hot stamping and low-temperature baking heat treatments, resulting in a uniform microstructure of lath martensite across the weld. As a result, the joint after hot stamping and baking exhibited an ultimate tensile strength of 2140 MPa and a total elongation of 12.03%, with the fracture occurring in the base metal. Such excellent mechanical properties of the joint demonstrate the great weldability of the present 2.1 GPa-grade HSS during laser welding.
Metabolomics Profiling and Advanced Methodologies for Wheat Stress Research
Authors: Liu Zhen , You Jiahui , Zhao Peiying , Wang Xianlin , Sun Shufang , Wang Xizhen , Gu Shubo , Xu Qian
Published: February 2025

Metabolomics is an omics technology that studies the types, quantities, and changes of endogenous metabolic substances in organisms affected by abiotic and biotic factors. Background/Objectives: Based on metabolomics, small molecule metabolites in biological organisms can be qualitatively and quantitatively analysed. This method analysis directly correlates with biological phenotypes, facilitating the interpretation of life conditions. Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is one of the major food crops in the world, and its quality and yield play important roles in safeguarding food security. Methods: This review elaborated on the significance of metabolomics research techniques and methods in enhancing wheat resilience against biotic and abiotic stresses. Results: Metabolomics plays an important role in identifying the metabolites in wheat that respond to diverse stresses. The integrated examination of metabolomics with other omics disciplines provides new insights and approaches for exploring resistance genes, understanding the genetic basis of wheat metabolism, and revealing the mechanisms involved in stress responses. Conclusions: Emerging metabolomics research techniques to propose innovative avenues of research is important to enhance wheat resistance.
A Study of Particle Heating and Oxidation Protection in a Modified Internally Injected Ar–H2 Atmospheric Plasma Spraying Torch
Authors: Mahrukh Mahrukh , Liu Sen-Hui , Zhang Li , Husnain Sohail , Yang Cheng-Chung , Luo Xiao-Tao , Li Chang-Jiu
Published: February 2025

This study employs computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to analyze the in-flight dynamics of particles in an Ar–H2 atmospheric plasma spray (APS) torch with a modified diverging-type nozzle. The focus is on optimizing injection parameters—plasma gas flow rates, input power, and carrier gas flow rates—to enhance coating microstructure and deposition efficiency by achieving superheated molten metal droplets. Using a discrete phase model, the heat and momentum transfer of Ni/Al/C (2 wt.% diamond) composite powders (30–110 µm) within the plasma jet were simulated. Results show that particle characteristics, such as temperature and oxidation, can be controlled by adjusting plasma jet temperature (T∞) and velocity (U∞). Smaller particles heat faster, reaching higher temperatures with increased evaporation and oxidation rates. The modified nozzle enables Ni-based alloy particles to reach ~2500 °C, reducing oxygen inclusion in the plasma jet core. This setup allows for the control of the onset of carbon and oxygen reactions, wherein carbon serves as a sacrificial element, protecting the base alloy elements (such as aluminum) from excessive oxidation.
An Unambiguous Super-Resolution Algorithm for TDM-MIMO-SAR 3D Imaging Applications on Fast-Moving Platforms
Authors: Guan Sheng , Wang Mingming , Liang Xingdong , Liu Yunlong , Li Yanlei
Published: February 2025

Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) radar enjoys the advantages of a high degree of freedom and relatively large virtual aperture, so it has various forms of applications in several aspects such as remote sensing, autonomous driving and radar imaging. Among all multiplexing schemes, Time-Division Multiplexing (TDM)-MIMO radar gains a wide range of interests, as it has a simple and low-cost hardware system which is easy to implement. However, the time-division nature of TDM-MIMO leads to the dilemma between the lower Pulse Repetition Interval (PRI) and more transmitters, as the PRI of a TDM-MIMO system is proportional to the number of transmitters while the number of transmitters significantly affects the resolution of MIMO radar. Moreover, a high PRI is often needed to obtain unambiguous imaging results for MIMO-SAR 3D imaging applications on a fast-moving platform such as a car or an aircraft. Therefore, it is of vital importance to develop an algorithm which can achieve unambiguous TDM-MIMO-SAR 3D imaging even when the PRI is low. Inspired by the motion compensation problem associated with TDM-MIMO radar imaging, this paper proposes a novel imaging algorithm which can utilize the phase shift induced by the time-division nature of TDM-MIMO radar to achieve unambiguous MIMO-SAR 3D imaging. A 2D-Compressed Sensing (CS)-based method is employed and the proposed method, which is called HPC-2D-FISTA, is verified by simulation data. Finally, a real-world experiment is conducted to show the unambiguous imaging ability of the proposed method compared with the ordinary matched-filter-based method. The effect of velocity error is also analyzed with simulation results.
A Siamese Network via Cross-Domain Robust Feature Decoupling for Multi-Source Remote Sensing Image Registration
Authors: Han Qichao , Zhi Xiyang , Jiang Shikai , Chen Wenbin , Huang Yuanxin , Yu Lijian , Zhang Wei
Published: February 2025

Image registration is a prerequisite for many multi-source remote sensing image fusion applications. However, due to differences in imaging factors such as sensor type, imaging time, resolution, and viewing angle, multi-source image registration faces challenges of multidimensional coupling such as radiation, scale, and directional differences. To address this issue, this paper proposes a Siamese network based on cross-domain robust feature decoupling as an image registration framework (CRS-Net), aiming to improve the robustness of multi-source image features across domains, scales, and rotations. Firstly, we design Siamese multiscale encoders and introduce a rotation-invariant convolutional layer without additional training parameters, achieving natural invariance to any rotation. Secondly, we propose a modality-independent decoder that utilizes the self-similarity of feature neighborhoods to excavate stable high-order structural information. Thirdly, we introduce cluster-aware contrastive constraints to learn discriminative and stable keypoint pairs. Finally, we design three multi-source remote sensing datasets and conduct sufficient experiments. Numerous experimental results show that our proposed method outperforms other SOTA methods and achieves more accurate registration in complex multi-source remote sensing scenes.
Development and Validation of the Particle into Nitroxide Quencher System with BPEAnit Probe for High-Sensitivity Reactive Oxygen Species Detection in Atmospheric Monitoring
Authors: Wang Ruiwen , Li Jiawen , Wang Hao , Deng Shuo , He Congrong , Miljevic Branka , Ristovski Zoran , Wang Boguang
Published: February 2025

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in atmospheric pollution, and their detection is essential for assessing air quality and health risks. This study developed and validated a standardized methodology for using the BPEAnit probe in a specially designed particle-into-liquid sampler, the Particle Into Nitroxide Quencher (PINQ), to measure reactive oxygen species in atmospheric monitoring applications. The method demonstrated high sensitivity, with a detection limit of 0.03 nmol·m−3, robust linearity (R2 = 0.9999), and negligible system residue, ensuring accurate ROS quantification. Comparative analyses of startup conditions revealed superior baseline stability under cold start conditions despite the longer stabilization time required. The auto-oxidation of the BPEAnit probe, measured at a rate of 3.01 nmol·m−3 per hour, was identified as a critical factor for long-term monitoring, highlighting the necessity of standardized procedures to mitigate the drift effect. The study established the system’s suitability for urban air quality assessments and public health risk evaluations, offering insights into its limitations and operational challenges. Future advancements could focus on enhancing probe stability and expanding the method’s utility in diverse operational environments, thereby broadening its applicability to diverse monitoring scenarios.
Cascaded Extended State Observer-Based Composite Sliding-Mode Controller for a PMSM Speed-Loop Anti-Interference Control Strategy
Authors: Xu Yifan , Zhang Bin , Kang Yuxin , Wang He
Published: February 2025

To enhance the speed-control performance of a permanent magnet synchronous motor (PMSM) drive system, an improved sliding-mode anti-interference control strategy is presented. Firstly, to tackle the speed fluctuation issue caused by cogging torque (a periodic disturbance) and time-varying disturbances at low set speeds in PMSM, an improved sliding-mode control (ISMC) is proposed. It consists of a continuous adaptive fast terminal sliding-mode surface (CAFTSMS) and a new reaching law (NRL). The CAFTSMS boosts the system’s immunity to interference, while the NRL, improved via an adaptive function, enhances the fast transient response and notably reduces speed fluctuations. Secondly, a quasi-proportional resonant (QPR) controller is introduced. It suppresses specific-order system harmonics, significantly reducing the harmonic amplitude and strengthening the system’s ability to handle periodic disturbances. Finally, a cascaded extended state observer (CESO) with a special cascade structure is proposed to solve the observation-delay problem in the traditional cascade structure. Experimental results show that the proposed sliding-mode anti-disturbance control strategy performs excellently in overcoming disturbances.
Transmission Control Protocol (TCP)-Based Delay Tolerant Networking for Space-Vehicle Communications in Cislunar Domain: An Experimental Approach
Authors: Wang Ding , Wang Ruhai
Published: February 2025

The integrated heterogeneous 7G/8G networks may face multiple challenges for reliable data delivery such as link disruption, intermittent link availability, long latency and a highly lossy channel. Delay tolerant networking (DTN) was proposed as a highly reliable networking technology for space networks that will be part of future 7G/8G networks. In this paper, an experimental evaluation of transmission control protocol (TCP)-based DTN (i.e., running TCP at the transport layer of DTN) for space-vehicle communications in the cislunar domain is presented. The impact of link disruption is also considered. The evaluation was conducted using the DTN protocol suites over a realistic experimental testbed. The study results show that TCP-based DTN works effectively for space-vehicle communications in cislunar domain in the presence of a link disruption event. However, a roughly exponential goodput decrease is observed with a linear increase in link delay from 1250 ms to 5 s.
Research on the Assembly of Square Parts on Circular Production Lines Using Admittance Control for Six-DOF Robots
Authors: Chai Zhiyuan , Chen Junhua , Li Hao , Xiang Wenping , Chang Dongdong , Liu Zewen
Published: February 2025

In circular production lines, issues such as positional errors, manufacturing errors at different square groove workstations, and the accumulation of errors during continuous assembly reduce the assembly success rate and limit efficiency. To address these challenges in assembling square groove parts, this study focuses on the jamming and wedging problems encountered during the assembly of square grooves and square parts. It analyzes typical assembly hole searching contact situations and proposes corresponding strategies. Based on the relative geometric relationships between the assembly workpieces, the entire assembly process is divided into three stages: pre-assembly, hole search contact adjustment, and insertion. Due to the complexity of predicting assembly forces and the uncertainty of workstation assembly in circular production lines, this study emphasizes the hole search contact adjustment stage. An innovative vertical hole search strategy is proposed and compared with the Archimedes spiral search method. This strategy models the contact between the end effector and the environment as a mass–damping–spring second-order system, achieving compliant assembly of square holes through admittance control. By analyzing the admittance parameters using control variables, the optimal admittance parameters are determined, and the admittance parameter pattern is applied in the experiments. Experimental results on the square hole assembly platform show that, under the optimal admittance parameters, the vertical hole search strategy significantly reduces search time and improves efficiency. Compared to the traditional Archimedes spiral hole search strategy, the average search adjustment time was increased by 5.8 s, improving efficiency by 46.4%, and the desired assembly outcomes were achieved.
Co-Creating Educational Action to Protect Children After DANA Floods in Spain
Authors: Roca-Campos Esther , Carbonell-Sevilla Sara , Canal-Barbany Josep M. , Barrachina-Sauri Mireia , Girbés-Peco Sandra , Giner-Gota Elisenda , Flecha Ramón
Published: February 2025

On 29 October 2024, Spain suffered the impact of an Isolated Depression at High Levels (DANA) that caused severe human and material damage. As seen in cases of natural disasters of similar magnitudes, the impact on children requires sustained interventions, with educational communities being key settings for providing protection and accompaniment. Although numerous studies highlight the role of schools in preventing and mitigating the socio-emotional impact of natural disasters on children, the literature on concrete educational actions to address the consequences of flood disasters is limited. This study analyses the co-creation process of six actions developed between researchers and teachers from 18 schools in the most affected areas of Valencia. For this purpose, a communicative research methodology was used. The techniques used to co-create actions were six dialogic focus groups, one dialogical scientific gathering and one WhatsApp community with teachers affected by the DANA. The results provide information on the redevelopment of the following six evidence-based actions and their impacts in the first weeks after the DANA: (1) the mapping of educational communities; (2) the planning of dialogic gatherings; (3) the creation of solidarity networks; (4) the creation of optimal learning environments; (5) the preservation of violence-free networks; and (6) the giving of specific support to vulnerable groups. The study offers guidelines for educational practises in flood-related disaster interventions, focusing on enhancing community resilience.
Impacts of Fertilizers with Varying Nitrogen Contents on Millet Yield and Rhizosphere Soil Microbial Communities: Implications for Sustainable Agricultural Development
Authors: Guo Ruifeng , Ren Yuemei , Ren Guangbing , Zhang Shou , Feng Jing
Published: February 2025

Nitrogen (N) is a vital macronutrient affecting crop productivity, yet the influence of different N contents in fertilizers on rhizosphere soil microbial diversity is not well understood. This study used high-throughput 16S rRNA and fungal ITS sequencing to examine the impact of varying N contents (low (LN, 90 kg/ha), medium (MN, 120 kg/ha), and high (HN, 150 kg/ha)) on root-associated microbial communities. The results revealed that Millet yield increased with N level: HN (7.14 Kg/ha) > MN (6.33 Kg/ha) > LN (5.62 Kg/ha), with HN yields significantly higher than LN (p < 0.05). No significant differences in microbial α-diversity were noted among three groups. Gemmatimonadota, Acidobacteriota, and Ascomycota were the dominant phyla, whereas Sphingomonas, Vicinamibacteraceae, and Fusarium were the predominant genera. LEfSe analysis showed that Entotheonellaeota were substantially enriched in the LN group at the phylum level. At the genus level, there was marked enrichment of Rhodothermaceae: Fusicolla were in the LN group and PLTA13, Luteimonas, and Edaphobaculum were in the MN group, whereas Aridibacter and Parviterribacte were enriched in the HN group. Fertilizers with varying N contents affected rhizosphere soil microbial community composition and millet yield. These findings provide valuable insights for developing scientifically-based fertilization strategies to promote sustainable agricultural ecosystems.
Taxation Business Environment Optimization and Enterprise Innovation Efficiency: Empirical Evidence from China’s Policy Tests
Authors: Yang Tong , Zhang Cui
Published: February 2025

Optimizing the tax business environment is of crucial significance for enhancing enterprise innovation efficiency and fostering sustainable development. This study utilizes the dataset of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2013 to 2022. By leveraging the quasi-natural experiment of the “Decentralization, Management and Service” reform pilot in the tax system, it adopts the multi-period difference-in-differences method to empirically investigate the impact of tax business environment optimization on enterprise innovation efficiency. The research reveals that the “Decentralization, Management, and Service” reform in the tax system exerts a significantly positive influence on enterprise innovation efficiency, and this result remains robust after a series of robustness tests. This optimization promotes enterprise innovation efficiency through three main channels: alleviating financing constraints, reducing transaction costs, and enhancing digitalization levels. The promoting effect is more pronounced for enterprises in mid-western regions, non-state-owned enterprises, large-scale enterprises, and those with high innovation endowments. Furthermore, it further contributes to the improvement of enterprise total factor productivity and the expansion of business scale, achieving the coordinated objectives of enhancing enterprise quality and efficiency and strengthening development momentum. These findings deepen our understanding of the economic implications of optimizing the tax business environment and offer empirical evidence for creating a conducive tax environment for the development of market entities.
Nature Meets Infrastructure: The Role of Mangroves in Strengthening Bangladesh’s Coastal Flood Defenses
Authors: Gijón Mancheño Alejandra , Jafino Bramka A. , Hofland Bas , van Wesenbeeck Bregje K. , Kazi Swarna , Urrutia Ignacio
Published: February 2025

Mangroves have been used for coastal protection in Bangladesh since the 1960s, but their integration with embankment designs has not been fully explored. This paper investigates the effect of existing mangroves on required embankment performance, with a focus on the wave-damping effect of mangroves. Existing mangroves reduce the required thickness of embankment revetment by up to 16–30% in the west, 47–82% in the central region, and 53–77% in the east. Notable mangrove sites include the belt south of polder 45 (Amtali), with an average width of 1.77 km, and the Kukri-Mukri polder, with an average width of 1.82 km. These mangroves reduce the need for thick slope protection, allowing the replacement of concrete revetments with softer materials, such as clay or grass, combined with mangrove foreshore. Additional large mangrove belts are found in Sandwip and Mirersarai. By replacing or reducing revetment requirements, mangrove forests can minimize carbon emissions from construction while providing carbon sequestration and other ecosystem services. This study can inform future sustainable investments in coastal protection systems by identifying areas where mangroves offer the greatest wave-damping benefits, which could be focus of follow-up feasibility studies.
Enhancement of Thermomechanical Protocol for Automotive Brake Using the Symmetry of the Disc: Numerical Validation and Material Selection
Authors: Gouzi Mohammed Berrada , Hajjia Ali , Khalfi Ahmed El , Harras Bilal , Vlase Sorin , Scutaru Maria Luminita
Published: February 2025

In the context of the automotive industry, this paper proposes an enhancement of the numerical simulation using FEM and performing material choosing with the Ashby method for automotive brake discs, using the symmetric shape of the disc. Automotive braking involves the dissipation of kinetic energy through heat generation due to friction, a physical phenomenon that alters the mechanical properties of brake discs. This prompts automotive development engineers to investigate new materials capable of absorbing heat while maintaining their mechanical properties. A thermomechanical study of a ventilated front brake disc has successfully demonstrated a good performance of cast iron because the equivalent stress is significantly lower than the elastic limit, with a margin of approximately 73 MPa. Compared to validated results extracted from the state of the art, the adopted methodology gives more realistic results with minimum CPU requirements, where the total time of calculation is around 40 min. More than that, the results are suitable to be used for studying durability and other properties like mechanical impact and fatigue.
Prevalence of Mpox Vaccine Acceptance Among Students: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Yappalparvi Ambanna , Gaidhane Shilpa , Padmapriya G. , Kaur Irwanjot , Lal Madan , Iqbal Suhaib , Prasad G. V. Siva , Pramanik Atreyi , Sharma Promila , Malik Praveen , Vishwakarma Teena , Punia Ankit , Jagga Megha , Mehta Rachana , Sah Sanjit , Shabil Muhammed , Satapathy Prakasini , Bushi Ganesh , Parsa Ali Davod , Kabir Russell
Published: February 2025

Background: Mpox, formerly known as monkeypox, is a re-emerging viral disease. Vaccine acceptance is crucial for preventing its spread. This systematic review and meta-analysis assessed the acceptance of the Mpox vaccine among student populations. Methods: We searched electronic databases, including PubMed, Web of Science, and Embase, up to 14 September 2024. The studies included were observational, such as cross-sectional and cohort studies, and specifically assessed vaccine acceptance for Mpox vaccines among students. R version 4.4 was used to perform the meta-analysis, and sensitivity analyses were conducted to assess the robustness of the findings. The publication bias was evaluated using Doi plots. Results: Of the 143 studies initially identified, eight studies were included in the final analysis, comprising a total of 16,129 participants. The overall vaccine acceptance rate was 58.6%, with considerable variability across studies (I2 = 100%). The sensitivity analyses indicated that acceptance rates ranged between 45% and 70%. The Doi plot demonstrated the presence of moderate publication bias. Conclusion: This systematic review and meta-analysis shows moderate acceptance of the Mpox vaccine among students. Future studies should investigate the factors influencing vaccine acceptance and design targeted strategies to improve coverage, which will be essential for controlling Mpox and ensuring successful vaccination campaigns.
Impact Response Characteristics of Apron Structure to Bouldery Debris Flow
Authors: Chen Shihua , Meng Minghui , Jiang Tingting , Guo Jian , Sun Dong , Qin Liang , Li Tiantao
Published: February 2025

Apron is a commonly used structure in the downstream of debris-flow-retaining dams. Its function is to resist the impact and erosion of debris flow on the dam foundation. In order to enhance the impact resistance of the apron to boulders, increasing the apron thickness and filling the block stone are usually adopted. However, the apron is still often destroyed by bouldery debris flow. Therefore, we propose a kind of toughness apron. Physical test and numerical simulation are used to reveal the dynamic response of the toughness apron. The results show that both tire cushion and stone cushion can buffer the impact of boulders. The physical test showed that the cushion reduces impact force and vibration acceleration, and the numerical simulation results indicate that the cushion significantly reduces damage to the protection apron while dissipating most of the energy. It was also found that there is an energy threshold of impact damage resistance of the apron. When the impact kinetic energy is higher than this threshold, the apron will be damaged. These findings highlight its potential for debris flow protection. According to the corresponding impact characteristics of the dam, the design method of the toughness apron is proposed.
KONTRIBUSI STATUS ERGONOMI TERHADAP KETERBATASAN FUNGSIONAL NECK PADA ESPORTS PLAYER
Authors: Muttaqqin Zaenal , Rahman Farid
Published: February 2025

Berdasarkan data, esports player saat bermain atau berlatih untuk berkompetisi cenderung menghabiskan banyak waktu dalam posisi duduk selama berjam-jam. Beberapa penelitian menunjukkan bahwa esports player terlibat dalam perilaku menetap selama 4,2 jam per hari saat pelatihan. Kondisi ini tentunya mengkhawatirkan karena seseorang yang duduk terlalu lama dan tanpa memperhatikan status ergonomi akan dapat memicu terjadinya kelelahan bahkan cedera. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui apakah terdapat kontribusi atau tidak status ergonomi terhadap keterbatasan fungsional neck pada esports player. Penelitian ini merupakan penelitian cross-sectional study dengan responden 284 esports player yang didapatkan melalui teknik sampling purposive sampling dengan  perhitungan metode lemeshow. Penelitian dilakukan mulai dari bulan Januari - Maret 2024 melalui platform formulir virtual. Dalam penelitian ini menggunakan alat ukur Rapid Upper Limb Assessment (RULA) dan Neck Disability Index (NDI). Analisis data dilakukan melalui uji korelasi spearman dan uji logistik regresi binary. Hasil  analisis uji korelasi spearman diketahui nilai (p-value 0.713 > 0.05). Analisis Uji Regresi Binary didapati nilai (p-value 0.608 > 0.05). Didapati bahwa dari status ergonomi tidak memiliki kontribusi dan pengaruh terhadap keterbatasan fungsional neck pada esports player.
CITIZEN DIPLOMACY DURING THE FULL-SCALE INVASION OF rUSSIA IN UKRAINE: THE ROLE OF STORYTELLING IN THE UKRAINE’S INTERNATIONAL IMAGT DEVELOPMENT
Authors:   Mariupol State University, Trofymenko M. , Gridina I. ,   Mariupol State University, Petrova S. ,   Mariupol State University
Published: February 2025

The article examines the influence and phenomenon of a storytelling, as a tool of citizen diplomacy, on the development of modern full-scale Ukrainian diplomacy. Based on the assumption about the significant influence of personal stories on the shaping of public opinion, the study was aimed to empirically confirm the relationship between citizen diplomacy, which often uses storytelling tools, and the perception of russian aggression against Ukraine by the European Union’s citizens. It is assumed, that in the conditions of the modern information warfare, the influence of such stories on the formation and developing of international solidarity is an effective mechanism of citizen diplomacy. To achieve the main goal of the study, a survey was conducted among citizens of certain European Union countries in order to identify their readiness to accept Ukrainian narratives.
Key words: citizen diplomacy, storytelling, full-scale invasion, russian-Ukrainian war, international relations.
La capacidad contractual de las personas con discapacidad en el Código Civil español y en la Propuesta de modernización de 2023
Authors: Ginés Castellet Núria
Published: February 2025

Con la reforma del Código civil español de 2021 en materia de apoyo de personas con discapacidad, el legislador pretendió cambiar el paradigma en el trato jurídico de estas personas, y con especial énfasis en lo que se refiere a su capacidad para actuar en el tráfico jurídico. Naturalmente, ello incide en la regulación de la capacidad contractual de las personas con discapacidad, que, según pretensión del legislador de 2021 expresada en el preámbulo de la Ley 8/2021, se quiere que sea igual a la de las personas sin discapacidad. Lo que se pretende ver en este trabajo es si, con la regulación actual tras 2021 y en la propuesta de modernización del Código civil en materia de obligaciones y contratos de 2023, ese desiderátum del legislador se ha cumplido o, en realidad, las personas con discapacidad afectante a su aptitud volitiva y cognitiva siguen teniendo limitaciones en su capacidad para contratar.