bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential affection of the visual information sub-streams in a patient with visual agnosia
Authors: Lederer Kirstin , Fimm Bruno , Munzert Jorn , Reiser Mathias , Maurer Heiko , Binkofski Ferdinand , Pellicano Antonello
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Visual agnosia is a deficit of object recognition addressed to the damage of the ventral stream (VS). The dorsal stream (DS) is usually intact in these patients, and it can be derived from well-preserved reaching and grasping of visually presented objects. In this study, we presented a new case of a visual agnosic patient (AC) with an extensive lesion of the secondary visual cortex.

Methods

We examined the kinematics of his grasping behavior towards common day-to-day objects compared to a healthy control group. Both colored and color-masked objects were presented, and participants were instructed to grasp-then-name and name-then-grasp them.

Results

The agnosic deficit was particularly evident when no color information was available to the patient: Although AC was able to recognize most colored objects with marked delay, his recognition of color-masked objects was very poor. Furthermore, the color-masked condition determined larger impairments in kinematic performance relative to the control group.

Discussion

Results support the view that spared color processing in the VS allows for partial compensation of deficits. Color information is also processed along the DS, contributing to visuomotor transformations.
Developing the Chinese version of the Index of Sojourner Social Support: the roles of socio-emotional and instrumental support in internal migrant university students
Authors: Fu Hanzhi
Published: February 2025

Introduction

This study aims to validate the Index of Sojourner Social Support (ISSS)—a widely-used scale for measuring social support in cross-cultural (including cross-national and internal) migrations—in Chinese contexts among internal migrant university students and explore how such support can facilitate their psychological adjustment.

Methods

One thousand six hundred ninety-two university students who migrated from all around China to the city of Shanghai participated in this study. The ISSS was translated according to strict procedures. Item analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), reliability analysis, measurement equivalence test, criterion validity test, and incremental validity test of the Chinese version of the ISSS (ISSS-C) were carried out.

Results

The ISSS-C generated by this study had two dimensions (socio-emotional support and instrumental support) of 18 items. The model fit was excellent (χ2/df = 5.64, CFI = 0.96, TLI = 0.95, SRMR = 0.03, and RMSEA = 0.06). The McDonald's omegas for its two subscales were both 0.96. The measurement equivalence of the ISSS-C and criterion validity were also excellent. Instrumental support significantly influenced students' psychological adjustment to the host culture, partially establishing incremental validity for the scale.

Discussion

The ISSS-C exhibits good psychometric properties and is appropriate for measuring social support perceived by migrant university students in Chinese cultural contexts. Further, instrumental support can assist them in psychologically adjusting well to local environments.
Age modulates, religious coping mediates: the role of attitude to self in cancer patients’ quality of life
Authors: Onyedibe Maria-Chidi C. , Chidebe Runcie C.W. , Andersen Barbara L. , Ugwoke Uzoamaka F. , Ugwu Lawrence Ejike
Published: February 2025

Background

Cancer significantly impacts psychological well-being and health-related quality of life (HRQoL). This is particularly evident in low and middle-income countries (LMICs) where healthcare disparities exacerbate distress. Cognitive vulnerabilities, including negative generalization, self-criticism, and high standards, may influence HRQoL through their effects on coping mechanisms. Religious coping, shaped by cultural norms in LMICs, may mediate these relationships, with age as a potential moderator.

Objective

This study examines how attitudes toward self (ATS), religious coping, and age influence HRQoL among cancer patients in an LMIC context.

Methods

A cross-sectional study of 565 cancer patients in a University Teaching Hospital, Southwest Nigeria completed a standardized and validated self-report measures of ATS, HRQoL, and religious coping. Mediation and moderation analyses were conducted using SPSS (Version 29) and SmartPLS (Version 4).

Results

Negative generalization (β = −0.25, p < 0.001) and self-criticism (β = −0.19, p < 0.001) reduced physical well-being, while high standards positively influenced emotional well-being (β = 0.27, p < 0.001) but negatively impacted functional well-being (β = −0.13, p < 0.01). Negative religious coping (NRC) mediated the relationships between ATS and HRQoL, amplifying negative effects on physical (β = −0.25, p < 0.001) and functional well-being (β = −0.32, p < 0.001). Age moderated these relationships, with older patients showing sharper declines in physical (β = −0.09, p < 0.01) and functional well-being (β = −0.10, p < 0.01). Positive religious coping had limited effects.

Conclusion

The study highlights the significant impact of cognitive vulnerabilities and maladaptive religious coping on the HRQoL of older cancer patients in LMICs. These findings underscore the urgent need for tailored interventions that integrate cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) with culturally and religiously sensitive approaches to improve patient outcomes. Policymakers and healthcare providers should prioritize training and resource allocation to address these challenges. Future research should focus on longitudinal patterns of coping, as well as gender-related differences, to develop more inclusive and effective strategies for enhancing the well-being of cancer patients.
Neuroscience-informed psychoeducation for addiction: a conceptual and feasibility study
Authors: Rezapour Tara , McLean Kayla L. , Psederska Elena , Maleki Khashayar Niki , Ekhtiari Hamed , Vassileva Jasmin
Published: February 2025

Over the past few decades, our understanding of substance use disorders (SUD) has been reshaped by evidence from neuroscience, which suggests that SUD are characterized by specific neuromarkers that transcend traditional diagnostic boundaries and act as pre-diagnostic markers that could be targeted through preventive attempts. Connectivity-based neuromarkers or brain networks have emerged as a promising framework, providing new insights into the neurocognitive mechanisms of SUD. Utilizing this data-driven framework assists prevention and intervention developers in offering a non-judgmental insight for adolescents regarding the potential vulnerability of neurocognitive systems to continued substance use. Given the importance of such awareness, this paper proposes a neural network-informed approach based on research domain criteria (RDoC) to characterize the content of neuroscience-informed psychoeducation designed for SUD. Furthermore, we argue that various features related to content and structure need to be considered when developing such interventions delivered through digital platforms (e.g., apps and websites). Finally, we introduce a theory-driven app called “NIPA”, developed with the aim of increasing adolescents’ awareness and resilience to the effects of drugs and other emotional triggers on brain and cognitive functions.
Social capital and physical activity: a literature review up to March 2024
Authors: Gao Zhendong , Chee Chen Soon , Omar Dev Roxana Dev , Liu Yutong , Gao Jianhong , Li Rui , Li Fangyi , Liu Xiaoxiao , Wang Tao
Published: February 2025

Background

Social capital, as a multidimensional social science concept, plays a crucial role in promoting physical activity. Despite numerous studies exploring the relationship between social capital and physical activity, there is still a lack of systematic understanding of how different dimensions of social capital influence physical activity levels. This study aims to systematically review the literature up to 2024 on the relationship between social capital and physical activity, uncover the role of social capital in promoting physical activity, and identify its multidimensional impacts.

Methods

We used a combination of search terms including “social capital” and “physical activity” to search the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, SportDiscus, and PsychINFO databases for English literature published up to March 1, 2024.

Results

We identified 2,021 unique articles and reviewed 115 studies that met our inclusion criteria. These studies evaluated various dimensions of social capital, with key dimensions including social participation (34%), social networks (30%), social cohesion (30%), social trust (29%), overall social network (26%), social support (19%), safety (19%), norms of reciprocity (13%), social control (10%), satisfaction with the environment (8%), collective efficacy (4%), norms for physical activity (3%), and voting (1%). In studies exploring the relationship between social capital and physical activity, the majority of positive results in the hypothesized direction were observed in dimensions such as social cohesion, trust, participation, reciprocity, satisfaction with the environment, and overall social networks. In contrast, dimensions such as voting, collective efficacy, safety, control, and physical activity norms predominantly showed null or negative results. The results for social support were mixed, displaying positive, negative, and null outcomes, while findings for social networks were also predominantly mixed.

Conclusion

This study reveals the significant role of social capital in promoting physical activity, particularly in the dimensions of social cohesion, social trust, social participation, norms of reciprocity, satisfaction with environment, and overall social network. When designing public health interventions in the future, it is crucial to tailor strategies to different populations and contexts to better leverage social capital in promoting physical activity.
Longitudinal relationship between baseline Weight-Adjusted Waist Index and stroke risk over 8 years in Chinese adults aged 45 and older: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Li Xiaoqiang , Zhou Xiangmao , Du Hui , Wang Hui , Tan Zhijian , Zeng Yaqing , Song Zhibin , Zhang Guifeng
Published: February 2025

Background

This study explores the longitudinal relationship between the Weight-Adjusted Waist Index (WWI), an innovative obesity metric, and stroke incidence in aged 45 and older Chinese adults.

Methods

Data from 9,725 individuals aged 45 years and older were analyzed from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study (2011–2020). Baseline characteristics were analyzed across different quartiles of the WWI. Stroke incidents were determined through self-reported doctor diagnoses. Multivariate logistic regression analyses and curve fitting assessed the WWI-stroke risk relationship, adjusting for various demographic, lifestyle, and health-related factors.

Results

Higher WWI quartiles were associated with older age and higher prevalence of stroke and adverse health conditions. In the fully adjusted model, participants in the highest WWI quartile had an odds ratio of 1.52 (95% CI: 1.19, 1.92) for stroke compared to the lowest quartile. Curve fitting revealed a linear relationship between WWI and stroke risk, consistent across various demographic and clinical subgroups.

Conclusion

Higher WWI is linked to an increased risk of stroke in aged 45 and older Chinese adults over an eight-year period. WWI may serve as an effective tool for predicting long-term stroke risk within this population. However, the study is limited by the reliance on self-reported stroke diagnoses and the presence of potential residual confounding factors.
Association between frailty and postherpetic neuralgia in the older adult with herpes zoster
Authors: Shen Yunyan , Lin Ping
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Chronic pain is closely related to frailty.

Methods

A total of 300 older adult patients diagnosed with HZ were selected and admitted to our hospital in 2024. A basic data questionnaire gathered baseline information, and the FRAIL scale was employed to evaluate their initial frailty status. Patients who were non-frail at baseline were followed up for 3 months. They were categorized into the PHN group and the non-PHN group based on the occurrence of neuropathic pain during follow-up. Diverse scales were employed to evaluate frailty, nutritional status, anxiety, and depression among participants. The Chi-square or Kruskal-Wallis tests were employed to compare the two groups. The logistic regression model was undertaken to explore the impact of PHN on frailty.

Results

Among the 300 older adult patients with HZ who satisfied the inclusion criteria, follow-up data were collected from 215 patients, comprising 85 cases in the PHN group and 130 cases in the non-PHN group. A prospective analysis of the 215 baseline non-frail patients showed that the incidence of frailty in older HZ patients was 14.9%. Univariate analysis revealed that the distributions of lesion site, lesion area, depression status, anxiety status, COPD, and nutritional score were statistically significant between the two groups (χ2 = 6.127, 4.846, 13.316, 12.967, 6.234, H = 2.592, P < 0.05). Nevertheless, the distributions of age, gender, marital status, education level, hypertension, and diabetes were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). Binary logistic regression analysis indicated that, after comprehensive adjustment for age, gender, lesion site, lesion area, depression status, anxiety status, COPD, and nutritional score, patients with PHN exhibited an higher risk of frailty compared to the non-PHN cohort (22 cases, OR = 3.279, 95% CI = 1.327–8.105; P = 0.010).

Conclusion

Postherpetic neuralgia increases the risk of frailty and is a significant factor influencing the progression of frailty in the older adult.
Associations between interpersonal violence and cigarette smoking, e-cigarette use, and dual use among Mexican adolescent students
Authors: Rodríguez-Bolaños Rosibel , Díaz-Andrade Evangelina , Ramírez-Palacios Paula , Rojas-Carmona Anabel , Gallegos-Carrillo Katia , Barrientos-Gutiérrez Inti , Cruz-Jiménez Lizeth , Vidaña-Pérez Dèsirée , Arillo-Santillán Edna , Thrasher James F.
Published: February 2025

Objective

To assess associations between experienced violence and the use of combustible cigarettes, e-cigarettes, and of both products (“dual use”) among adolescent students from Mexico.

Methods

Data comes from an online survey among 3,046 adolescents (12–19 years) conducted between September and December 2021. Students reported experiences of neglect, physical, psychological, and sexual violence perpetrated by household members, and digital violence (by anyone) in the previous 12 months, as well as current (last 30 day) use of cigarettes and e-cigarette. In multinomial logistic models, exclusive cigarette use, exclusive e-cigarette use, and dual use (reference = no use) were regressed on experienced violence and covariates.

Results

The prevalence of exclusive use of cigarettes was 1.4%, exclusive e-cigarette use was 6.1, and 2.4% for dual use. Almost half (46.9%) of adolescents reported having been the target of physical violence, followed by psychological violence (42.6%), neglect (34.9%), digital violence (12.3%), and sexual violence (5.2%). In adjusted multinomial models, adolescents who experienced physical violence (Adjusted Relative Risk Ratios: ARRR = 2.28, 95% CI [1.05–4.96]) were more likely to exclusively smoke cigarettes. Adolescents were also more likely to exclusively use e-cigarettes if they had been targeted by psychological or digital violence (ARRR = 1.55, 95% CI [1.05–2.29] and ARRR = 1.69, 95% CI [1.12–2.54], respectively). Experience of physical, digital, neglect, and sexual violence were positively associated with dual use.

Conclusion

Experiences of violence may increase the likelihood of tobacco use, particularly dual use. Prevention programs may need to include the family environment to reduce violence.
The prevalence and risk factors of musculoskeletal disorders among Indonesian dental professionals
Authors: Kholinne Erica , Azalia Xarisa , Rahayu Erika Putri , Anestessia Ira Juliet , Agil Nadifa , Muchtar
Published: February 2025

Dental professionals (DPs) are at significant risk of developing work-related musculoskeletal disorders (WMSDs). This study aimed to determine the prevalence of WMSDs among DPs and identify associated factors based on professional level. A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 151 dental professionals, including dentists, dental nurses, and dental assistants, from various universities and health institutes in Indonesia. Data were collected using the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire. Associations between WMSD symptoms and qualitative data (demographics, job characteristics, and other factors) were examined using the Chi-square test, while quantitative data were analyzed using the independent t-test. The results showed that 96% of respondents (145 out of 151) had experienced WMSDs, with the back (68.2%), waist (66.9%), upper neck (60.9%), and lower neck (59.6%) being the most commonly affected regions. Muscle fatigue (53.6%) and pain (49.7%) were the most frequently reported symptoms. Triggering factors included unergonomic body posture (84.1%) and prolonged sitting (53.6%), while protective factors included rest (71.5%) and improved body posture (53%). Physical exercise was significantly associated with WMSDs (p < 0.001). This study highlights the high prevalence of WMSDs among dental professionals and underscores the need for ergonomic training, physical exercise, and equipment modification to mitigate these conditions. Limitations of the study include unequal distribution among professional groups and a gender imbalance, which may affect the generalisability of the findings.
Constructing recreational farm operator strategic leadership in VUCA environment
Authors: Hsiao Chih Yu
Published: February 2025

In a VUCA environment, especially during crises like COVID-19, recreational farm operators face significant challenges. This study examines how strategic leadership fosters adaptability and innovation among Taiwanese operators, drawing on 20 in-depth interviews with diverse recreational farms. Data triangulation via observations, financial analysis, and semi-structured interviews—guided by Schoemaker et al.'s framework—revealed six pivotal leadership capabilities: anticipation, challenge, interpretation, decision-making, alignment, and learning. These competencies enabled effective strategies such as forecasting market trends, diversifying products, embracing digital transformation, reorganizing processes, and developing new offerings to enhance resilience. Forward-looking decision-making and continuous learning further strengthened operations, ensuring operators could seize opportunities amidst uncertainty. The findings underscore strategic leadership's central role in cultivating adaptability and offer insights for advancing agritourism management worldwide.
Resolving the generation mechanisms and electrodynamical effects of Medium Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances (MSTIDs)
Authors: Klenzing Jeff , Zawdie Kate , Astafyeva Elvira , Belehaki Anna , Burleigh Meghan , Burrell Angeline G. , Figueiredo Cosme A. O. B. , Frissell Nathaniel A. , Fu Weizheng , Hickey Dustin , Huba Joe , Inchin Pavel , Kaeppler Stephen R. , Narayanan Viswanathan Lakshmi , Sivankandan Mani , Smith Jonathon M. , Xiong Chao , Yokoyama Tatsuhiro , Zettergren Matt , Zhang Shun-Rong
Published: February 2025

The term “Medium-Scale Traveling Ionospheric Disturbances” is used to describe a number of different propagating phenomena in ionospheric plasma density with a scale size of hundreds of km. This includes multiple generation mechanisms, including ion-neutral collisions, plasma instabilities, and electromagnetic forcing. Observational limitations can impede characterization and identification of MSTID generation mechanisms. We discuss inconsistencies in the current terminology used to describe these and provide a set of recommendations for description and discussion.
Physiological impact of Trichoderma viride agents on the quality and production of melon that is grown on soils continuously cropped to melon
Authors: Liu Jingyi , Lian Hua , Dou Jingwei , Li Jingjing , Zhu Guangliang , Wang Jiatong , Ma Guangshu , Li Mei
Published: February 2025

The issue of ongoing cropping barriers is getting worse as China’s melon planting area steadily grows, and the melon industry’s sustainable growth is being negatively impacted by the steadily diminishing yield and quality of the fruit. Trichoderma is a probiotic that can enhance the physiological traits of crops, encourage their growth, and raise their yield and quality. It is yet unknown, though, how Trichoderma influences the growth, physiological traits, and yield of melon grown on soils continuously cropped to melon. Trichoderma viride kf57 agents at 1.0 × 104, 8.0 × 104, 6.4 × 105, and 5.12 × 106 CFU/g and no Trichoderma viride agents (CK) were utilized as treatments. At the seedling and fruiting stages, a pot experiment and a bedding experiment were conducted to study the physiological properties and yield of melon under varying concentration of Trichoderma viride kf57 agents. As a result of the application of T. viride agents, the indexes of melon seedlings were all significantly improved. The treatment of 6.4 × 105 CFU/g had the best promoting effect on the morphology of melon seedlings, and the plant height, stem diameter, leaf area, fresh weight of whole plant, dry weight of whole plant, root shoot ratio, and strong seedling index of melon seedlings increased by 90.39, 46.30, 37.55, 81.35, 100.62, 51.47, and 240.00%, respectively, compared with CK. The results showed that different amounts of T. viride agents could improve physiological and biochemical indices of melon leaves during the fruiting stage; the treatment of 6.4 × 105 CFU/g was the most effective; chlorophyll content, nitrate nitrogen content, sucrose content, reducing sugar content, free proline content, nitrate reductase (NR) activity, peroxidase (POD) activity, and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity of melon leaves increased at 30 days after melon pollination. Melon quality and yield was also enhanced by the use of T. viride agents, with the treatment of 6.4 × 105 CFU/g T. viride agents having the best boosting effects. The melon fruit’s transverse diameter, vertical diameter, single fruit weight, and yield all increased. The amount of soluble solids, vitamin C, soluble protein, soluble sugar, and sugar acid ratio also increased. In conclusion, by promoting the morphology of melon grown on soils continuously cropped to melon seedlings, T. viride agents can improve the physiological characteristics of melon grown on soils continuously cropped to melon and improve the production and quality qualities of melon. When using T. viride kf57 agents, 6.4 × 105 CFU/g is the highest effective dosage. The study revealed that T. viride agents had significant potential as biological agents as they showed good results in melon yield and quality formation, as well as in enhancing seedling quality.
Efficacy and safety of anemoside B4 in canine pneumonia treatment: a prospective, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ji Jinzhao , Ding Xiaoqing , Liu Chuanli , Dai Lingling , Yu Junting , Li Linghao , Wan Shaobing , Song Yangyang , Zhao Junqing , Su Zhetong , Jia Kun , Li Shoujun
Published: February 2025

Background

Canine pneumonia is a serious respiratory disease often associated with Canine Infectious Respiratory Disease (CIRD). Current treatment strategies primarily rely on antibiotics and corticosteroids; however, the emergence of antibiotic resistance and potential side effects from prolonged corticosteroid use limit the effectiveness of these therapies in clinical practice. These challenges highlight the urgent need for alternative treatments. Anemoside B4 (AB4), derived from the traditional Chinese medicine Pulsatilla, has shown promise in preclinical studies for modulating inflammatory responses and improving clinical symptoms of pneumonia. Therefore, AB4 may offer a valuable alternative treatment option for canine pneumonia in veterinary medicine.

Methods

A prospective, randomized controlled trial was conducted at the Veterinary Drug Research and Evaluation Center of South China Agricultural University. Seventy-two dogs with mild-to-moderate pneumonia were randomly assigned to one of three groups: AB4, placebo, or Chuanxinlian injection (CXL). The primary outcome was the effect of AB4 on comprehensive clinical scoring of canine pneumonia; secondary outcomes included recovery times for primary symptoms and efficacy assessments. Additionally, AB4′s safety in clinical applications was evaluated.

Results

The AB4 group demonstrated significantly lower composite clinical scores on Days 7 and 14 compared to the placebo group (p = 0.033 and p = 0.000, respectively). Significant differences in recovery times for fever and dyspnea were observed between the AB4 and placebo groups (p = 0.041 and p = 0.024, respectively). Moreover, the cure rate and overall efficacy on Day 14 were significantly higher in the AB4 group than those in the placebo group (p = 0.001 and p = 0.009, respectively).

Conclusion

These findings suggest that AB4 may be a promising treatment option for canine pneumonia, potentially serving as an alternative to traditional therapies. Further research is needed to explore its clinical potential in veterinary medicine.
Tumour budding in invasive ductal breast carcinomas: correlation with clinicopathological prognostic parameters and hormone receptor status
Authors: Francis Sachin Sebastian , Sharma Swati
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Breast cancer is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality among women. Advances in molecular biology have improved detection and treatment, but conventional histopathological factors remain crucial for prognosis. Tumour budding, defined as clusters of less than 5 tumour cells detached from the main tumour, has been linked to poor prognosis in several cancers. This study explores the association between intra-tumoral budding (ITB) and peripheral tumour budding (PTB) with known prognostic factors in Invasive Breast Carcinoma of no special type (IBC NST).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study analysed 70 cases of IBC NST diagnosed at Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, between January 2020 and December 2021. Tumour budding was classified as high-grade or low-grade based on density, which denotes the number of buds per x20 field. Clinicopathological data, including hormone receptor status, Ki-67 index, lymphovascular invasion (LVI), perineural invasion (PNI), and axillary lymph node involvement, were obtained. Statistical analyses were performed to identify a significant association between tumour budding and these factors. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were also done to demonstrate the significance of association.

Results

High-grade PTB showed significant associations with LVI (p = 0.046), PNI (p = 0.017), and axillary lymph node involvement (p = 0.021). In contrast, high-grade ITB was only significantly correlated with axillary lymph node involvement (p = 0.044). LVI (p-value = 0.240) and axillary lymph node involvement (p-value = 0.142) did not show any association with PTB on multivariate analysis and PNI (p-value = 0.074) near significant association with PTB). A significant inverse association was observed between PTB and Ki-67 (p = 0.012), which remained significant in univariate and multivariate analysis (p-value = 0.017). No significant associations were found between tumour budding and hormone receptor status or menopausal status.

Conclusion

Peripheral tumour budding (PTB) is significantly associated with several poor prognostic factors in IBC NST, while intra-tumoral budding (ITB) correlates primarily with axillary lymph node involvement. Tumor budding, particularly PTB, could serve as an important prognostic marker in breast cancer. Further research is needed to standardize tumour budding assessment in clinical practice.
Theoretical Analysis and Experimental Verification of 2-DOF Linkage Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting
Authors: Song Yuanyuan , Nan Huawen , Zhou Ran , Xu Fangchao , Sun Feng
Published: February 2025

In the process of energy harvesting, vibration energy harvesting still has several disadvantages, including a high-threshold excitation and a narrow working bandwidth. Therefore, a 2-degrees-of-freedom piezoelectric energy harvester is proposed. By introducing a nonlinear magnetic force to the system, the working bandwidth and the energy-harvesting efficiency of three magnetically coupled piezoelectric cantilever beams can be effectively improved. In this paper, a mathematical model consisting of three electrically coupled magnetically coupled piezoelectric cantilever beam systems is established, and the governing equations of electric coupling are solved numerically and verified experimentally. The dynamic characteristics under different excitations and frequencies are studied. The experiment shows that the working bandwidth can be increased by controlling the distance between three pairs of circular magnets and changing the excitation and frequency to induce resonance. Thus, the self-power requirement of micro-power devices can be realized. Overall, this study provides a promising solution for improving the performance of piezoelectric energy harvesters and offers theoretical insights for designing vibrating piezoelectric energy harvesters.
Technology or Phenomenon: Why Blockchain Is Not a Technology
Authors: Lee Byunguk
Published: February 2025

Blockchain was introduced in 2008, yet it remains poorly defined over a decade later. Despite the lack of a universally accepted definition, its utility continues to be widely advocated. However, a function or feature can only be classified as a technology if it addresses a specific human discomfort. A mere combination of ambiguous functionalities without a clear purpose cannot be considered a technology. This paper investigates whether blockchain is an appropriate term for a specific technology or merely an ambiguous amalgamation of features. It further argues that technologies with analogous functionalities should be classified as distinct technologies if their applications differ. Through a literature review of the criteria for defining a technology, this paper finds that blockchain does not meet these requirements. Additionally, existing definitions of blockchain often fail to meet proper criteria or inaccurately describe its functionality. In the academic context, the term “blockchain technology” is a clear misnomer that should be discouraged. The findings can guide decision making for stakeholders, including companies, regulators, and legislators involved in the virtual asset market.
Evaluation and Performance Optimization of a Hydrogen Peroxide-Based Green Monopropellant Thruster for Steady-State Operations
Authors: Kokal Uğur , Baysal Mustafa , Emerce Nur Ber , Yıldız Yiğit , Karabeyoğlu Arif , Özkol İbrahim
Published: February 2025

Hydrogen peroxide (High Test Peroxide, HTP) emerges as a promising candidate for green space propulsion applications due to its lower toxicity compared to liquid conventional propellants such as hydrazine and nitrogen tetroxide. This study aims to optimize the performance and reliability of HTP monopropellant thrusters, focusing on catalyst bed stability, efficiency, and durability during extended steady-state operations. Key parameters, including catalyst bed packing, pellet size, bed load, and HTP concentration, were investigated in this study for their impact on the steady-state performance, using the pressure loss across the catalyst bed as an indicator of catalyst deterioration. Results indicate that an optimal pressure drop of 1–1.5 bar across the catalyst bed provides optimal stability and durability. To evaluate transient characteristics, effects of bed load, HTP concentration, and pre-heating temperature on thruster response times were investigated. Following the optimization process, a lifetime test with an HTP throughput of 6 kg was conducted to monitor performance variations over time. Additionally, the blowdown characteristics of the thruster were analyzed to assess performance under end-of-life conditions. The experiments in this study demonstrate that HTP monopropellant thrusters are viable candidates for reliable space missions, particularly for long-duration operations such as station-keeping maneuvers.
Examining the Association Between Network Properties and Departure Delay Duration in Japan’s Domestic Aviation
Authors: Sadeek Soumik Nafis , Hanaoka Shinya , Sugishita Kashin
Published: February 2025

Delays are a global issue affecting both airports and airlines. Departure delays are particularly likely to propagate across airports, rendering the entire flight network susceptible to increased delay durations. The delay network and its duration fluctuate daily or even hourly across airports. This study investigates the association between departure delay duration and delay network properties. Using various network metrics, we apply a fixed-effect Prais–Winsten regression model within a panel data framework covering the period from 2018 to 2021 for two full-service carriers in Japan. The key findings reveal that higher in-degree centrality is associated with longer departure delays. Betweenness centrality suggests that, in addition to hub airports, some spoke airports may function as delay bridges, thereby increasing delay durations. Eigenvector centrality is linked to shorter but more frequent departure delays across the network, which are more likely to result in frequent delay propagations of shorter durations. The results indicate that some airports may form delay clusters among themselves, potentially extending departure delay durations among connected airports. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the state of emergency contributed to varying associations between network properties and departure delay durations. These outcomes are expected to provide valuable insights for airline delay and schedule management policymakers.
An Analytical Study on the Thermal Post-Buckling Behaviors of Geometrically Imperfect FRC-Laminated Beams Using a Modified Zig-Zag Beam Model
Authors: Wang Zhoumi , Meng Qingchun
Published: February 2025

An asymptotic analytical method is proposed to study the thermal post-buckling behaviors of fiber-reinforced composite (FRC)-laminated beams with geometric imperfections employing a modified zig-zag beam model. The beam model satisfied the discontinuity of the shear deformation at the interlayer interfaces and the stress boundary conditions on the upper and lower surfaces. Each imperfection was assumed to possess the same shape as the buckling mode, and the in-plane boundary conditions were presumed to be immovable. A two-step perturbation method was used to solve the nonlinear governing equations and obtain the equilibrium path. Subsequently, the initial defect sensitivity of the post-buckling behaviors was analyzed. The existence of the bifurcation-type equilibrium path for perfect beams is discussed in depth. Load–deflection curves for beams with various boundary conditions and ply modes were plotted to illustrate these findings. The effects of the slenderness ratio, elastic modulus ratio, thermal expansion coefficient ratio, ply modes, and supported boundaries on the buckling and post-buckling behaviors were also investigated. The numerical results indicate that the slenderness ratio significantly influences the critical buckling temperature, with thicker beams exhibiting higher buckling resistance. The elastic modulus ratio also plays a crucial role, with higher ratios leading to increased buckling strength. Additionally, the thermal expansion coefficient ratio affects the post-buckling load-bearing capacity, with lower ratios resulting in greater stability.
PON-1 and PON-2 Polymorphisms and PON-1 Paraoxonase Activity in People Living with HIV-1
Authors: Reichert Cadiele Oliana , Levy Débora , Maselli Luciana Morganti Ferreira , da Cunha Joel , Gualandro Sandra Fátima Menosi , Bydlowski Sérgio Paulo
Published: February 2025

Antiretroviral therapy (ART) has significantly improved the life expectancy of people living with HIV-1 (PLWH). However, prolonged ART use is linked to metabolic alterations and oxidative stress. The paraoxonase (PON) enzymes, especially PON-1 and PON-2, are critical in maintaining antioxidant balance. Their activity can be influenced by polymorphisms such as Q192R and L55M in PON-1 and A148G and S311C in PON-2. This study examines the impact of these polymorphisms on paraoxonase activity, lipid metabolism, and infection markers in PLWH under various ART regimens. This is a case-control study with 525 participants, 175 healthy controls (HC) and 350 PLWH divided into subgroups: T0 (ART-naïve, n = 48), T1 (ART with reverse transcriptase inhibitors, n = 159), and T2 (ART with protease inhibitors, n = 143). Paraoxonase activity was higher in PLWH (123.0; IQR: 62.0–168.0) compared to HC (91.0; IQR: 48.0–136.0, p < 0.001) but similar between HC and T0 (p = 0.594). T1 (125.0; IQR: 65.5–166.0) and T2 (123.0; IQR: 61.0–182.0) showed higher activity than HC (p = 0.002 and 0.003). Among 61 complete genotypes, 13 were unique to PLWH and 6 to HC (p < 0.001). L55L was more frequent in HC (49.7% vs. 36.9% in PLWH), while M55M was higher in PLWH (p = 0.004). The S311C genotype was more frequent in HC (39.2%) than PLWH (24.9%) (p = 0.003). The L55L genotype conferred 59.9% protection against HIV-1 (OR: 0.401; 95% CI: 0.228–0.704), while the M allele increased susceptibility by ~69% (OR: 1.694; 95% CI: 1.173–2.446). The M55M genotype and/or M allele may be linked to HIV-1 susceptibility. Prolonged ART use elevates PON-1 activity in PLWH.
Regular Physical Activity and Life Satisfaction: Unpacking the Roles of Self-Control and Emotion Regulation
Authors: Potoczny Wiktor , Herzog-Krzywoszańska Radosława , Krzywoszański Łukasz
Published: February 2025

Physical activity is an essential component of a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercise and physical activity have many benefits for both the body and mind. This study examined the possible mediating effects of self-control and forms of emotion regulation on life satisfaction. A total of 186 adults participated in an online survey. Subjects answered questions regarding the regularity of participation in various forms of physical activity and completed questionnaires assessing self-control, emotional regulation, and life satisfaction. The Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Brief Self-Control Scale were used to assess life satisfaction and dispositional self-control. The Emotion Regulation Questionnaire was used to measure two different forms of emotion regulation: cognitive reappraisal and expressive suppression. Based on self-reported average minutes spent exercising per week, participants were classified into four levels of physical activity according to World Health Organization guidelines. The mediation analysis results showed that dispositional self-control and cognitive reappraisal fully mediated the relationship between physical activity level and life satisfaction. This suggests that regular physical activity may increase levels of self-control and cognitive reappraisal, which in turn leads to greater life satisfaction. These findings highlight the importance of regular exercise in promoting well-being and increasing life satisfaction through its beneficial effects on self-control and emotion regulation.
Efficient Task Allocation in Multi-Agent Systems Using Reinforcement Learning and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Fang Zheng , Ma Tao , Huang Jun , Niu Zhao , Yang Fang
Published: February 2025

The multi-agent task allocation problem has attracted substantial research interest due to the increasing demand for effective solutions in large-scale and dynamic environments. Despite advancements, traditional algorithms often fall short in optimizing efficiency and adaptability within complex scenarios. To address this shortcoming, we propose a genetic algorithm-enhanced PPO (GAPPO) algorithm, specifically developed to enhance decision-making in challenging task allocation contexts. GAPPO employs a deep reinforcement learning framework, enabling each agent to independently evaluate its surroundings, manage energy resources, and adaptively adjust task allocations in response to evolving conditions. Through iterative refinement, GAPPO achieves balanced task distribution and minimizes energy consumption across diverse configurations. Comprehensive simulations demonstrate that GAPPO consistently outperforms traditional algorithms, resulting in reduced task completion time and heightened energy efficiency. Our findings underscore GAPPO’s potential as a robust solution for real-time multi-agent task allocation.
Adjusting Soil Temperatures with a Physics-Informed Deep Learning Model for a High-Resolution Numerical Weather Prediction System
Authors: Wang Qiufan , Liu Yubao , Shi Yueqin , Hua Shaofeng
Published: February 2025

Soil temperature (ST) plays an important role in the surface heat energy balance, and an accurate description of soil temperatures is critical for numerical weather prediction; however, it is difficult to consistently measure soil temperatures. We developed a U-Net-based deep learning model to derive soil temperatures (designated as ST-U-Net) primarily based on 2 m air temperature (T2) forecasts. The model, the domain of which covers the Mt. Lushan region, was trained and tested by utilizing the high-resolution forecast archive of an operational weather research and forecasting four-dimensional data assimilation (WRF-FDDA) system. The results showed that ST-U-Net can accurately estimate soil temperatures based on T2 inputs, achieving a mean absolute error (MAE) of less than 0.8 K on the testing set of 5055 samples. The performance of ST-U-Net varied diurnally, with smaller errors at night and slightly larger errors in the daytime. Incorporating additional inputs such as land uses, terrain height, radiation flux, surface heat flux, and coded time further reduced the MAE for ST by 26.7%. By developing a boundary-layer physics-guided training strategy, the error was further reduced by 8.8%.
Study on the CSES Electric Field VLF Electromagnetic Pulse Sequences Triggered by Volcanic Eruptions
Authors: Liu Siyu , Han Ying , Liu Qingjie , Huang Jianping , Li Zhong , Shen Xuhui
Published: February 2025

Volcanic eruptions, as a natural phenomenon, can generate electric field disturbances that may interfere with the ionosphere, potentially impacting communication systems and electronic devices. This paper conducts identification and classification analyses of the electromagnetic pulse (EMP) disturbances in the very low frequency (VLF) electric field data observed by the China Seismo-Electromagnetic Satellite (CSES) and finds that volcanic eruption events can trigger EMP sequences. This paper first applies Fourier transform to the VLF electric field waveform data to convert it into 4 s spectrograms. Then, a series of operations such as grayscale conversion, edge feature enhancement, and binarization are performed on the spectrograms. Subsequently, a K-means clustering algorithm is applied to the binarized results to identify EMP events on the spectrograms. Finally, a classification analysis is performed on the identified results, revealing that multiple volcanic eruption events generate EMP sequences. The results of this paper not only provide new insights into the impact of volcanic eruptions on the electromagnetic environment but also have significant implications for enhancing the anti-interference capability of communication systems and optimizing electromagnetic environment monitoring technologies.
Experimental Investigation of Phase Change Material-Based Battery Pack Performance Under Elevated Ambient Temperature
Authors: Ganji Mohammad J. , Agelin-Chaab Martin , Rosen Marc A.
Published: February 2025

This study experimentally assesses the thermal performance of a proposed phase change material (PCM)-based battery pack under elevated ambient temperatures. In addition, the novel approach of the research addresses scenarios where the ambient temperature reaches the PCM’s melting point while maintaining the initial temperature at the ideal operating point of 22 °C. The experiments employed nine 2500 mAh 18650 lithium-ion cells connected in series and subjected to constant-current discharges of 1C and 3C, with a conventional air-cooled system as the baseline and paraffin as the PCM. The results indicate that as the ambient temperature reached the PCM’s melting point, approximately 98% utilization of the PCM around the heating cell was achieved. Additionally, the PCM demonstrates noticeable advantages over the baseline by stabilizing the temperature profile and reducing the maximum temperature increase rate from over 18 °C in the baseline system to around 7 °C. Notably, under a high-load (3C) discharge rate, the PCM-based system successfully maintained battery temperatures below 42 °C, demonstrating its effectiveness under demanding operational scenarios. These findings establish a critical baseline for PCM-based BTMSs operating under elevated ambient temperatures and up to the melting point of the PCM, thereby informing future research and development of more efficient PCM-based thermal management solutions.
Bimetal/Li2Se Nanocomposite as Cathode Prelithiation Additive for Sustainable High-Energy Lithium-Ion Batteries
Authors: Liu Ting , Hu Xuemei , Zhang Yadong , He Ting , Guo Yunxiang , Qiao Junqiang
Published: February 2025

Cathodes undergo unavoidable lithium loss due to the formation of a solid electrolyte interface (SEI), which seriously affects the energy density of lithium iron phosphate (LFP) batteries. To compensate for the initial capacity loss, we introduced an NiCo-Li2Se nanocomposite to an LFP battery system to act as a competitive cathode prelithiation additive. Benefiting from its zero gas-emissions, ambient stability, high irreversible capacity, low delithiation potential, and good compatibility with carbonate-based electrolytes, the NiCo-Li2Se additive based on the chemical conversion reaction effectively offset the initial lithium loss. As a result, with 10 wt% addition, the initial charge capacity of the Li||LFP half-cell was improved by 34 mA h g−1. The Gra||LFP-Li2Se full-cell released an initial discharge specific capacity of 159.7 mA h g−1, which increased by 18% compared with the Gra||LFP full-cell, resulting in improved cycling stability. In addition, COMSOL Multiphysics simulation was applied to verify the function of the NiCo-Li2Se additive, and pouch cells were assembled to explore its potential in large-scale industrial application. This work provides a meaningful research direction for the design of a prelithiation additive for LFP cells.