bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Malnutrition Risk in Older Adults: Evaluating the Diagnostic Relevance of Serum Biomarkers: SIRT-1, CCK-8, Melatonin, and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC)
Authors: Kujawowicz Karolina , Mirończuk-Chodakowska Iwona , Cyuńczyk Monika , Witkowska Anna Maria
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Addressing the risk of malnutrition at an early stage is crucial to preventing its development, which can have a detrimental impact on physical and mental health status. This study investigates the potential role of biochemical biomarkers such as sirtuin 1 (SIRT-1), melatonin, cholecystokinin-8 (CCK-8), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in identifying the risk of malnutrition. Methods: This cross-sectional study assessed malnutrition risk in 153 community-dwelling older adults using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA). Serum levels of SIRT-1, melatonin, and CCK-8 were analyzed with enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) was measured using the ferric reducing ability of plasma (FRAP) method. Results: Serum levels of TAC and CCK-8 were significantly positively correlated with grip strength and visceral adipose tissue, with TAC levels also showing associations with appendicular skeletal muscle mass index (ASMI), total body water, total energy expenditure, fat-free mass index, and fat mass index (p < 0.001). CCK-8 emerged as a strong predictor of malnutrition risk (AUC = 0.58 in females, AUC = 0.64 in males), whereas SIRT-1 (AUC = 0.57 for both sexes), melatonin (AUC = 0.46 for females, AUC = 0.51 for males), and TAC (AUC = 0.42 for females, AUC = 0.54 for males) exhibited weaker predictive abilities. A multivariate model incorporating CCK-8 demonstrated excellent predictive accuracy (AUC = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.77–0.90) and indicated a potential association between elevated CCK-8 levels and a higher risk of malnutrition. Conclusions: In conclusion, this study highlights the effectiveness of a multi-parameter model incorporating CCK-8 as a reliable approach for assessing malnutrition risk in older adults, offering a comprehensive evaluation of the condition. However, further research is needed to confirm its applicability and accuracy in diverse elderly populations and clinical settings.
A Sequential Ultrafiltration Method to Enhance the Accuracy and Throughput in Plasma Protein Binding Tests
Authors: Jeon Sang Ho , Kim Min Chang , Lee Haejun , Oh Ju-Hee , Kim Hyun Seo , Lee Heawon , Park Taehoon , Lee Young-Joo
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Ultrafiltration (UF) is widely accepted as a method for assessing the plasma protein binding (PPB) of drugs. However, it is vulnerable to non-specific binding (NSB) to the device, which can result in inaccuracies. This study presents a straightforward, high-throughput modified UF method aimed at minimizing bias due to NSB. Methods: The modified UF method, sequential UF, features the addition of a 2 min pre-UF phase designed to saturate the NSB in the device, followed by the main 20 min UF procedure, compared to the conventional UF method. To evaluate the feasibility of this sequential UF method, we measured the PPB of nine compounds using sequential UF and compared these results to those obtained with the conventional mass balance UF method, recognized as a standard for NSB correction. Results: The PPB values determined through sequential UF were generally consistent with those derived from the mass balance UF method. The fold differences ranged from 97.9% to 113.8%, with an average of 103.5%. No significant differences were observed between the two methods for all compounds, with the exception of quercetin, which showed an unusually high PPB. Conclusions: Sequential UF was effective in correcting NSB to the device while providing advantages in terms of simplicity and efficiency.
Pharmacokinetics of Levofloxacin Entrapped in Non-Ionic Surfactant Vesicles (Niosomes) in Sprague Dawley Rats
Authors: Adebayo Amusa S. , Jankie Satish , Johnson Jenelle , Pereira Lexley Pinto , Agbaje Kafilat , Adesina Simeon K.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to levofloxacin and other fluoroquinolones. Previously, drug loading in colloidal carriers has shown enhanced penetration into and retention in bacterial cells. However, the mechanism of levofloxacin niosomes’ bio-disposition in rats has not been reported. This study investigated the pharmacokinetics (PK) of optimized levofloxacin niosomes following intraperitoneal injection into Sprague Dawley rats. Methods: Formulation and processing variables settings were determined using DoE Fusion One software. The resulting data input into the Optimizer module provided niosome formulation for in vivo study in Sprague Dawley rats. Each group of rats (n = 6) was injected intraperitoneally with either conventional levofloxacin or its niosomes at equivalent doses of 7.5 mg/kg/dose. Blood samples were collected via tail snip and analyzed using a validated HPLC method. The plasma–time data were fed into the Gastroplus software (Simulations Plus, CA) and used to model levofloxacin PK. Results: Niosomes for in vivo study had a mean hydrodynamic diameter of 329.16 nm (±18.0), encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 30.74%, Zeta potential of 21.72 (±0.54), and polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.286 (±0.014). Both the Akaike and Schwarz criteria showed levofloxacin niosomes and conventional drug formulation obeying one- and two-compartment PK models, respectively. Thus, formulation in niosomes altered levofloxacin biodistribution by concentrating the drug in the vascular compartment. Conclusions: Niosome encapsulation of levofloxacin altered its biodistribution and pharmacokinetic profile, possibly by protecting i.p. levofloxacin en route into plasma, and significantly enhanced its plasma concentration with enhanced potential for treating intravascular infections.
Highly Efficient Cutting of Quartz Glass with Low Roughness and Minor Chipping Using Bessel Laser Beams
Authors: Xiong Lei , An Yuhang , Zhang Ling , Tang Cheng , Zhang Tianci , Zuo Aibin , Gao Wenyan
Published: February 2025

The conventional method of cutting quartz glass with a knife often leads to undesirable effects, such as chipping, debris generation, and an inconsistent cut quality. Additionally, implementing the current methods of laser ablation cutting and crack control cutting presents challenges in ensuring both the quality of the cut and the efficiency of the process. Previous reports have documented a single direct cut of thin quartz glass, albeit at a thickness of only 200 μm. In this study, we utilized a pulse-width-tunable Gaussian beam, in combination with an axicon and a beam-reducing mirror, to generate a high-quality Bessel beam. This process endows the quartz glass with a nano-porous structure with a thickness of 1 mm, enabling high-quality cutting in a single pass. The effects of laser-cutting speed and pulse width on the cutting cross-section and cut surface were investigated. The results of the experiments show that using the optimal cutting speed and pulse width significantly improved cutting quality, reduced surface damage and sputtering, enabled the penetration of the modified cutting cross-section throughout the material, and decreased cutting cross-section roughness to 607 nm Ra. This technique holds promise for the laser-processing industry, enhancing both the quality and efficiency of cutting 1 mm thick quartz glass.
Chemical Variation of Leaves and Pseudobulbs in Prosthechea karwinskii (Orchidaceae) in Oaxaca, Mexico
Authors: Barragán-Zarate Gabriela Soledad , Pérez-López Beatriz Adriana , Cuéllar-Martínez Manuel , Solano Rodolfo , Lagunez-Rivera Luicita
Published: February 2025

Prosthechea karwinskii is an endemic orchid of Mexico with significant value for its traditional uses: ornamental, ceremonial, and medicinal. The pharmacological activity of this plant has been studied using specimens recovered from religious use during Holy Week in Oaxaca, Mexico, sourced from various localities within this state. Geographical variability can influence the chemical composition of plants, as environmental factors affect the production of their secondary metabolites, which impact their biological properties. This research evaluated the variability in the chemical composition of leaves and pseudobulbs of P. karwinskii obtained from different localities in Oaxaca, comprising 95–790 g and 376–3900 g of fresh material for leaves and pseudobulbs, respectively, per locality. Compounds were identified using UHPLC-ESI-qTOF-MS/MS following ultrasound-assisted hydroethanolic extraction. Twenty-one compounds were identified in leaves and twenty in pseudobulb. The findings revealed differences in chemical composition across localities and between leaves and pseudobulbs of the species. The Roaguia locality exhibited the highest extraction yield and pharmacological potential in leaves. For pseudobulbs, Cieneguilla specimens showed the highest yield, and El Lazo had the lowest yield but the highest pharmacological potential. This study represents the first comprehensive analysis of the variation in the chemical composition of a native Mexican orchid. In all localities, leaves and pseudobulbs contained compounds with known biological activity, validating the use of the species in traditional medicine and highlighting its potential for medical and biological applications.
Studies on Modification of Polyamide 6 Plastics for Hydrogen Storage
Authors: Li Li , Zhao Jiawei , Wang Xingguo , Yang Qingquan , Wang Xiang , Yin Hua
Published: February 2025

Polyamide 6 (PA6) can be used as the liner material of a type IV hydrogen storage tank, but its high hydrogen permeability and poor low-temperature toughness limit its application in related fields. In this work, PA6 composites were prepared by introducing graphene with different contents and a nano two-dimensional lamellar filler via the melt blending method, and the effects of the graphene content on the crystallization properties, mechanical properties, and hydrogen barrier properties of the composites were investigated. The results showed that composites containing 2.0 wt% graphene exhibited the best overall performance, and compared with PA6, the crystallization properties, normal-temperature impact strength and low-temperature impact strength of the composites were increased by 16.0%, 130.6% and 111.7%, respectively, and the helium permeability coefficient was decreased by 33.2%. Graphene enhances the crystallinity and lamellar thickness of the composites. Additionally, its two-dimensional lamellar structure can also increase the diffusion path of gas molecules, thereby improving the barrier properties of the composites.
Tröger’s Base Polyimide Membranes with Enhanced Mechanical Robustness for Gas Separation
Authors: Lei Xingfeng , Zhang Zixiang , Xiao Yuyang , Yu Qinyu , Liu Yewei , Ma Xiaohua , Zhang Qiuyu
Published: February 2025

The rigid V-shaped Tröger’s base (TB) unit has been proven efficacious in creating microporosity, making TB-based polyimides (PIs) exhibiting significant advantages in simultaneously increasing gas permeability and selectivity for the separation industry. However, TB-based PIs commonly display undesired mechanical performance due to the low molecular weight resulting from the evident steric hindrance and low reactivity of TB-containing diamines. Herein, a novel diamine-containing bisimide linkage (BIDA) has been synthesized and then polymerized with paraformaldehyde via a moderate “TB polymerization” strategy to furnish polymers simultaneously, including imide linkages and TB units in the polymer main chains, namely, TB-PIs. This TB polymerization strategy avoids the direct polymerization of dianhydride with low-reactivity TB diamine. After incorporating a meta-methyl substituent into BIDA diamine, the m-MBIDA diamine-derived m-MTBPI ultimately exhibits a high molecular weight, good tensile strength (90.4 MPa) and an outstanding fracture toughness (45.1 MJ/m3). And more importantly, the m-MTBPI membrane displays an evidently enhanced gas separation ability in comparison with BIDA-derived TBPI, with overall separation properties much closer to the 1991 Robeson upper bound. Moreover, no sign of plasticization appears for the m-MTBPI membrane when separating a high-pressure CO2/CH4 mixture (v/v = 1/1) up to 20 bar, with the CO2/CH4 mixed-gas separation performance approaching the 2018 upper bound.
Representative Test Material for Validation of Density Separation as Part of Microplastic Quantification in Drinking Water
Authors: Ponti Jessica , Barbosa-de-Bessa J. Francisco , Mehn Dora , Bucher Guillaume , Schirinzi Gabriella F. , Fumagalli Francesco , Gilliland Douglas
Published: February 2025

The evolving regulatory landscape for microplastics—including the European Union’s Drinking Water Directive—underscores the importance of addressing the analytics of emerging contaminants in water, ensuring public health protection, and fostering scientific advancements in environmental monitoring. This work aims to contribute to these advancements by sharing the strategy of test material selection and characterisation for the validation of sample treatment protocols. The article describes a PVC-based representative test material of industrial origin, its physicochemical characterisation, and its application in density separation procedure evaluation, compatibly with the European Commission’s recommendations for quantifying microplastics in water for human consumption. The work shares our protocol for the durable fluorescent labelling of microplastic particles and for the centrifugal density separation of microplastics from other particulate contaminants in drinking water samples. It reports density and viscosity values for the zinc chloride solutions used to feed the theoretical calculations and recovery values achieved with the presented density separation protocol.
Optimized Biodiesel Production from Pumpkin (Cucurbita pepo L.) Seed Oil: A Response Surface Methodology for Microwave-Assisted Transesterification
Authors: Durgut Mehmet Recai
Published: February 2025

The acceptance of biodiesel, specifically fatty acid methyl esters, as an alternative to petroleum diesel has increased significantly. Traditional feedstocks used to produce biodiesel include various seed oils and used frying oils, but there is growing interest in low-cost alternatives like pumpkin seed oil. As a byproduct of cucurbits processing, a significant number of seeds often remains with a high oil content suitable for biodiesel production. In the search for new low-cost alternative feedstocks for biodiesel production, the evaluation of pumpkin seed oil was emphasized. Using a modified microwave oven for transesterification, this study optimized the key parameters of reaction temperature, catalyst concentration (KOH), and reaction time using a Box–Behnken design. The results showed a maximum biodiesel yield of 91.5%. Microwave irradiation significantly accelerated the process, reducing reaction times from an hour to minutes. The biodiesel produced met international physicochemical standards, demonstrating the potential of pumpkin seed oil as a sustainable biodiesel source.
Surprised by Hope: Possibilities of Spiritual Experience in Victorian Lyric Poetry
Authors: Dyck Denae
Published: February 2025

This article reconsiders literature’s capacity to express and evoke spiritual experiences by turning to William James’s The Varieties of Religious Experience, especially his discussion of mysticism and his suggestion that poetry can bring about such states. James’s ideas are especially promising given recent developments in postsecular and postcritical scholarship that problematize a religious/secular divide and call into question a hermeneutics of suspicion. Bringing James into conversation with Paul Ricoeur, I aim to show how receptivity to spiritual experiences in literature might generate expansive models of both poetics and hermeneutics. To pursue these possibilities, my study analyzes three examples of Victorian lyric poems that probe the edges of wonder: Thomas Hardy’s “The Darkling Thrush”, Gerard Manley Hopkins’s “Nondum” and Dollie Radford’s “A Dream of ‘Dreams’”. These case studies strategically select work by writers of various belief or unbelief positions, highlighting the dynamism of the late nineteenth-century moment from which James’s writings emerged. I argue that this poetry facilitates a re-imagination of hope, beyond a faith/doubt dichotomy, as well as a re-framing of revelation, from proclamation to invitation. Building on insights from both James and Ricoeur, my discussion concludes by making the case for cultivating an interpretive disposition that does not guard against but opens toward poetry’s latent potential to take readers by surprise.
A Case Report of Median Nerve Entrapment in a Supracondylar Humeral Fracture: Diagnosis, Treatment, and Results After 5 Years of Follow-Up
Authors: Colonna Carlo , Ramazzotti Joil , Locatelli Francesco , Crosio Alessandro , Tos Pierluigi
Published: February 2025

Background and Clinical Significance: Neurological complications in extension-type-III supracondylar humeral fractures (SCHFs) in children represent 11% of cases. An extension-type-III SCHF with posterolateral displacement of the distal fragment is commonly associated with damage to the median nerve and the anterior interosseous nerve (AIN). Neurological complications are often unnoticed, and their immediate postoperative diagnosis is difficult, particularly in young children. Neurapraxia, the most common complication, usually undergoes spontaneous nerve recovery. Case Presentation: We report a case of a 7-year-old patient with postoperative median nerve palsy after an SCHF (Gartland type III) who was referred to our unit from another hospital due to a lack of spontaneous recovery. In addition, motor and sensory functions were absent. As ultrasound (US) indicated nerve kinking at the fracture site, an exploration was performed. The nerve was trapped within the fracture and the callus. It was surgically extracted, and intraoperative examination with US indicated that resecting the kinked nerve, freeing the two stumps, and attempting a primary end-to-end suture represented the best course of action. We present this case with a 5-year follow-up surgery, which showed a good clinical outcome. Conclusions: This case is noteworthy because of its diagnostic and therapeutic pathways, and it is complemented by surgical and ultrasound images that can assist other surgeons in similar circumstances.
Uncertainty in Pricing and Risk Measurement of Survivor Contracts
Authors: So Kenrick , Cruz Stephanie , Marcella Elias , Briones Jeric , Garces Len
Published: February 2025

As life expectancy increases, pension plans face growing longevity risk. Standardized longevity-linked securities such as survivor contracts allow pension plans to transfer this risk to capital markets. However, more consensus is needed on the appropriate mortality model and premium principle to price these contracts. This paper investigates the impact of the mortality model and premium principle choice on the pricing, risk measurement, and modeling of survivor contracts. We present a framework for evaluating risk measures associated with survivor contracts, specifically survivor forwards (S-forward) and survivor swaps (S-swaps). We analyze how the mortality model and premium principle assumptions affect pricing and risk measures (value-at-risk and expected shortfall). Four mortality models (Lee–Carter, Renshaw–Haberman, Cairns–Blake–Dowd, and M6) and eight premium principles (Wang, proportional hazard, dual power, Gini, exponential, standard deviation, variance, and median absolute deviation) are considered. Our analysis highlights the need to refine mortality models and premium principles to enhance pricing accuracy and risk management. We also suggest regulators and practitioners incorporate expected shortfall alongside value-at-risk to capture tail risks and improve capital allocation.
Force Sensor for Instrumented Patellar Prostheses: Development and Characterization
Authors: Maioli Vera , Zauli Matteo , Cappello Angelo , Cristofolini Luca
Published: February 2025

The development of an instrumented patellar prosthesis, able to measure the contact forces at the patellofemoral joint, can significantly aid in investigating the causes of total knee arthroplasty failures due to patellar complications. This study focuses on developing and validating an instrumented patellar prosthesis to measure contact forces in the patellofemoral joint. A piezoresistive force sensor was characterized and integrated into a conditioning circuit, with the aim of its implementation in the prosthesis. To measure medial and lateral forces independently, the sensors were trimmed in half. Compression tests (up to 2000 N) assessed sensor performance in terms of linearity (R2 = 0.998 intact vs. 0.989 trimmed), repeatability (0.9% intact vs. 0.8% trimmed), and accuracy (1.7% intact vs. 2.3% trimmed) for forces up to 250 N. Higher force levels resulted in increased errors, but at a rate still comparable to that of existing sensors in the literature. Key considerations for the design of the instrumented prosthesis, such as minimizing point and shear loads, were identified. A prototype prosthesis capable of housing the sensor was proposed. The integrated system shows potential for improving the understanding of Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) failures through in vitro studies and could serve as an intraoperative tool for the evaluation of bone resections.
Advanced Sensing Technology for Ocean Observation
Authors: Angelini Federico
Published: February 2025

It is almost impossible to overestimate the importance of the oceans for human society and the whole biosphere, either from the perspectives of climate change or sustainable development [...]
Extending Anxiety Detection from Multimodal Wearables in Controlled Conditions to Real-World Environments
Authors: Alkurdi Abdulrahman , He Maxine , Cerna Jonathan , Clore Jean , Sowers Richard , Hsiao-Wecksler Elizabeth T. , Hernandez Manuel E.
Published: February 2025

This study quantitatively evaluated whether and how machine learning (ML) models built by data from controlled conditions can fit real-world conditions. This study focused on feature-based models using wearable technology from real-world data collected from young adults, so as to provide insights into the models’ robustness and the specific challenges posed by diverse environmental noise. Feature-based models, particularly XGBoost and Decision Trees, demonstrated considerable resilience, maintaining higher accuracy and reliability across different noise levels. This investigation included an in-depth analysis of transfer learning, highlighting its potential and limitations in adapting models developed from standard datasets, like WESAD, to complex real-world scenarios. Moreover, this study analyzed the distributed feature importance across various physiological signals, such as electrodermal activity (EDA) and electrocardiography (ECG), considering their vulnerability to environmental factors. It was found that integrating multiple physiological data types could significantly enhance model robustness. The results underscored the need for a nuanced understanding of signal contributions to model efficacy, suggesting that feature-based models showed much promise in practical applications.
Flexible and Emissivity-Adjustable Heat Flow Sensor Comprising a Carbon Nanotube/Polymer Composite
Authors: Suemori Kouji , Komatsu Yuichiro , Nobeshima Taiki
Published: February 2025

Heat flow sensors allow the straightforward measurement of the heat flow emitted from an object by attaching the sensor to the object. However, the inability of this method to control the surface emissivity of the sensor over a wide range lowers the measurement accuracy of a heat flow sensor. This study introduces a flexible heat flow sensor whose surface emissivity can be adjusted over a wide range. This sensor integrates a heat flow detector (HFD), which harnesses the Seebeck effect of a carbon nanotube/polymer composite to convert heat flow into voltage. This conversion exhibits a linear relationship with the heat flow, characterized by a proportional coefficient of 0.6556 mV·W−1. The sensor features an emissivity-controlling layer (ECL), comprising a thin Al film deposited on a flexible polymer film substrate. The surface emissivity of the layer can be adjusted between 0.06 and 0.88 by modulating the thickness of the Al coating. The ECL can be easily attached to and detached from the HFD. The proposed sensor enables the measurement of heat flow from heat sources with various emissivities by simply affixing it to the source. This study shows that the deployment of such sensors is useful for the advanced thermal management of diverse facilities.
Development and Application of a UPLC–MRM–MS Method for Quantifying Trimethylamine, Trimethylamine-N-Oxide, and Related Metabolites in Individuals with and Without Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Hefni Mohammed E. , Witthöft Cornelia M.
Published: February 2025

Trimethylamine-N-oxide (TMAO) is associated with various chronic diseases. TMAO is a downstream oxidative metabolite of trimethylamine (TMA) that is generated by the gut microbiota from dietary choline, carnitine, and betaine. Current analytical methods predominantly target TMAO only, due to the challenge of efficiently extracting and quantifying TMA. The present study demonstrates a simple and rapid UPLC–MRM–MS method for concurrent quantification of TMAO, TMA, and related precursors (choline, betaine, and various carnitines) following a methanol extraction from plasma and derivatization using iodoacetonitrile (IACN). Pure methanol resulted in a higher extractability of TMA (up to two-fold) compared to both pure acetonitrile and various methanol/acetonitrile mixtures. The quantification method showed high linearity within the tested range of 0.0625–100 μmol/L (determination coefficient > 0.999) and an intra- (n = 3) and inter-day (n = 9) precision of 2–8% along with an average recovery of above 94% for all metabolites (TMAO, TMA, choline, betaine, L-carnitine, acetyl-L-carnitine, and propionyl-L-carnitine). The method’s applicability was confirmed through a comparison of TMAO and its precursor concentrations in plasma samples of overnight-fasted subjects with (n = 12) and without (n = 21) metabolic syndrome.
Young People’s Constructions of Identities: Global Perspectives
Authors: Ross Alistair
Published: February 2025

Some are born great, some achieve greatness, and some have greatness thrust upon them [...]
How Does ESG Performance Matter for Corporate Sustainability Performance? Evidence from China
Authors: Zhang Wenyu , Wei Zeyi , Ge Linyun , Zhang Ya , Xu Guanghua
Published: February 2025

Using 2010–2021 listed A-share companies as the research sample, we explore the influence of corporate ESG performance on sustainable development performance and the mechanism by which this influence occurs. The results indicate that ESG performance effectively enhances sustainable development performance. Mechanism analyses reveal that ESG performance promotes sustainable development performance through the “reputation effect” and “supervision effect”. Further analyses reveal that among the three dimensions of ESG, the social governance dimension (“S”) plays the most significant role. When environmental regulations are more stringent, green credit guidelines are stronger, internal controls are more effective, and the firm is in a growth or decline phase in its life cycle, the enhancing effect of ESG performance on sustainable development performance becomes more pronounced. Additionally, ESG performance can further enhance a company’s ability to obtain commercial credit and its overall performance. This paper enriches related research on the value effect of ESG and provides insights for listed companies, participants in the capital market, and government departments to emphasize ESG performance and improve ESG incentive policies.
Abundance of Non-Native Fish Species Varies Among Subtropical Reservoirs with Different Water Quality, Depths, and Ages
Authors: Ji Xiang , Zhou Ting , Chen Xuemei , Yang Lei , Ye Jianzhong , Huang Zhixiang , Yuan Jing , Li Wei , Liao Chuansong , Guo Chuanbo , Liu Jiashou
Published: February 2025

Dam construction facilitates the colonization of non-native fish species by altering the hydrological environment and increasing nutrient concentrations, while usually declining the richness of native fish species. The invasion of non-native fish species in subtropical reservoirs has become widespread in China; thus, research on the introduction of non-native fish species and their relationship with the environment remains urgently needed. In this study, we seasonally investigated fish communities across four reservoirs with different ages and nutrient levels in Fujian, China, examining the dominance, catch per unit effort (CPUE), and their relationships with environmental factors for native and non-native fish species. Two of the four reservoirs are 65 years old and the other two are six years old. We sampled a total of twenty-eight fish species, including six non-native species, and we found that each reservoir had non-native species, which became dominant species or important species in fish assemblage. However, the dominance and abundance of non-native species were higher in two high-nutrient-level reservoirs compared to the other two reservoirs. Both the native and non-native species’ CPUEs were positively correlated with total nitrogen concentrations and negatively correlated with water transparency. The CPUE of non-native fish species significantly increased with water depth. The CPUE of non-native species in old reservoirs was significantly lower than that in the young reservoirs. Our results suggested that a higher total nitrogen concentration and lower water depth promoted the population expansion of non-native species in subtropical reservoirs, and lower nutrient levels reduced the abundance of non-native species in those older reservoirs.
Multi-Scenario Land Use Change Dynamic Simulation and Carbon Stock Assessment of Man–Nature in Border Mountainous Areas
Authors: Wei Zhenfeng , Ling Likang , Wang Qunying , Luo Danyi
Published: February 2025

As an important gateway for China’s foreign exchanges, the border areas of Guangxi face irrational land use issues that impact local ecology, the economy, national security, and international relations. With global attention on climate change, “carbon peaking”, “carbon neutrality”, and ecosystem carbon storage, this study focuses on the border area, using natural resource, socio-economic, and transportation factors. Through the PLUS and In VEST models, it predicts carbon storage under multiple scenarios. (1) The results show that from 2000 to 2020, forest land, water bodies, and other land types decreased, while construction land and cropland increased. Land use changes accelerated over time, with significant urban expansion into cropland and forest areas, reflecting rapid socio-economic development. (2) For 2030, the following projections were made: Under natural development, construction land expands significantly, forest land declines, and urbanization spreads outward. Under urban development, construction land grows fastest, forest and grassland decline sharply, and infrastructure reduces other land types. Under sustainable development, reductions in forest and grassland are mitigated, construction land grows moderately, and water bodies remain stable, achieving a balance between humans and nature. (3) Compared to 2020, ecosystem carbon storage declines across scenarios. Annual decreases are 513,223.13 tons (natural), 5,469,327.95 tons (urban), and 500,214.24 tons (sustainable). Sustainable development is crucial for achieving “dual carbon” goals. This study emphasizes ecological priority, strict cropland protection, and controlled construction land, offering sustainable land management strategies to ensure rational land use and border security.
Regeneration of Rock Temperature Using Solar Thermal Energy Storage in Ground Source Heat Pump Systems—Sustainability for Regions with Both Heating and Cooling Needs
Authors: Kurevija Tomislav , Macenić Marija , Galović Veronika
Published: February 2025

The storage of thermal energy within the ground serves as a method to balance irregular energy consumption for heating throughout the year. This principle revolves around the accumulation of thermal energy during the summer months, allowing for its utilization for heating buildings during the winter months. This paper focuses on the technique of storing heat energy in the ground, known as borehole thermal energy storage (BTES), via borehole heat exchangers (BHE), which are designed to harness shallow geothermal energy for heating and cooling purposes. The model of regenerating heat in rocks, after subcooling of the ground in winter months, could be conducted by storing solar energy using a panel collector. The method of solar heat regeneration on a real building with a high number of BHEs was analyzed, with special attention on certain restrictions. In climates such as northern Croatia with cold winters and warm to hot summers, where besides heating loads there are certain cooling loads present, the implementation of this ground temperature regeneration method on the cooling and heating efficiency of heat pumps was studied. This paper presents research on the possibility of using this field as a BTES system coupled with solar collectors in a climate with both heating and cooling loads present.
A New Integrated Framework to Assess the Impact of Social Farming on Sustainability and Rural Development: A Case Study in Lazio
Authors: Basset Francesco , Giarè Francesca , Senni Saverio , Soriano Barbara
Published: February 2025

The importance of social farming (SF) is known in the literature, yet there is a lack of suitable tools for evaluating and monitoring these practices. Moreover, there is also a lack of data and information about the outcomes of the experiences and the impact they have on various stakeholders. Consequently, it is difficult to understand the extent to which SF can contribute to the achievement of sustainability and rural development goals. This study proposes an integrated framework to evaluate social farming practices, combining different methodologies such as SWOT analysis, Business Model Canvas (BMC), Social Return on Investment (SROI), and Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP). The research evaluated a regional initiative in Lazio Region (Italy), aimed at the socio-occupational integration of disadvantaged individuals through SF networks. Data collection involved 127 stakeholders through interviews and focus groups. Through the integration of SWOT analysis and BMC, the strong influence of the local contexts and project leaders on the impacts of SF is shown. In addition, the integration of AHP with SROI highlights how to address the limitations in quantifying social, economic, and environmental benefits, thus improving the accuracy of impact assessments. Finally, the results underline the need for policies that ensure the continuity and scalability of SF projects, highlighting the central role of the farm in sustainable socio-occupational inclusion. The study contributes to the advancement of SF evaluation methodologies and informs future policy development.
Sustainable Innovation Management Model (MGI) for Plantain Agroindustrial Chain
Authors: Zartha Sossa Jhon Wilder , Gutiérrez Posada Nolberto , Zuluaga Monsalve Adriana María , Botero Montoya Luis Horacio , Gutiérrez Cano Luis Fernando , González Candia Julio , Gómez Salazar José Orlando , Orozco Mendoza Gina Lía , Escobar Mora Nelson Javier
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a sustainable Innovation Management Model (MGI) for the plantain agroindustrial chain, applied to the Quindío region of Colombia. A mixed-methods approach was employed, incorporating various techniques, including a systematic literature review using the Scopus database, which analyzed 95 documents through the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) framework. The identification and prioritization of relevant variables, along with the validation of the proposed model, were also conducted through the use of three questionnaires, supplemented by relevance and congruence indices. The analysis identified 53 variables for the entry stage, 36 for the transformation stage, and 31 for the exit stage. The findings revealed significant gaps within the agroindustrial chain, particularly in areas such as leadership, strategic management, and resilience among key stakeholders. The MGI, as prioritized by stakeholders, provides a framework that integrates variables and information flows, facilitating the development of new open innovation challenges. These challenges engage not only seekers—entities that require innovation—but also solvers—organizations that offer solutions. The implementation of this model will require supportive public policies, projects, and web platforms, such as Innocentive/Wazoku, Ninesigma, Ruta N, Yet2.com, Itonics, and Ennomotive, which, with the aid of artificial intelligence, can connect innovation supply and demand through open challenges.
Instrumentation and Evaluation of a Sensing System with Signal Conditioning Using Fuzzy Logic for a Rotary Dryer
Authors: Tabares-Martinez Juan Manuel , Guzmán-López Adriana , Bravo-Sánchez Micael Gerardo , Barranco-Gutierrez Alejandro Israel , Martínez-Nolasco Juan José , Villaseñor-Ortega Francisco
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for innovative solutions to accurately measure variables in dewatering processes has driven the development of advanced technologies. This study focuses on the evaluation of a measurement system in a rotary dryer used to dehydrate carrots at an operating temperature of 70 °C. The system uses the Arduino platform, strain gauges, and LM35 temperature sensors. Experimental tests were designed to evaluate the performance of the dryer, using initial quantities of carrots of 1.5 kg, 1.0 kg, and 0.5 kg. The novelty of this study lies in the application of fuzzy logic for signal conditioning in real time, in order to improve the precision of measurements, designed in MATLAB (version 9.5) and programmed in Arduino. The dryer reduces the water content of the product to a final average of 10%. The research offers a novel solution for the integration of an intelligent measurement system that optimizes dewatering efficiency. The manuscript is organized as follows: in the methodology section, the design of the measurement system is described; subsequently, the experimental results and the analysis of the dryer efficiency are presented, and finally, in the conclusions, the implications of the system and its possible applications in other processes are discussed.
Delineation of Aflatoxicosis on Health and Performance of Water Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) and Its Therapeutic and Nutritional Management
Authors: Kumar Rajesh , Kumar Sanjay , Chhotaray Supriya , Singh Madhu , Rautela Rupali , Dey Avijit
Published: February 2025

A symptom of reduced feed intake, conception and progressive emaciation was noticed in the Murrah buffalo farm of the institute with tail gangrene in some buffaloes and the sudden death of many animals. Thus, the objective of the study was for the systemic investigation to find out the causative agents and necessary ameliorative measures. The tail lesion includes alopecia, scales, necrosis, oedematous and a painful area. After thorough examination of the signs and symptoms of the disease, it was speculated that the case may be due to the presence of mycotoxins in the feeds offered to the animals. The severely affected buffaloes that died subjected to post-mortem examination demonstrated liver damage, nephritis and haemorrhages in all the vital organs. The analyses of offered feed revealed a high concentration of aflatoxin B1 content in maize, groundnut cake, cottonseed cake and compound feed mixtures. The case was typically diagnosed as the aflatoxicosis in water buffalo and ameliorative measures viz. the withdrawal of contaminated feeds, supplementation of toxin binder and penta-sulphate mixture in the feed taken sustained animal health and production performances. Severely affected animals with tail gangrene were treated with local disinfectants and antibiotics as well as systemic injection with broad-spectrum antibiotics and supportive vitamins and minerals to recover to their previous stage. Therefore, routine check-ups of feeds are of utmost importance to prevent feeding of aflatoxin-contaminated feeds. Systemic efforts viz. therapeutic management with topical medicines, broad-spectrum antibiotics, supportive therapies with vitamins and antioxidants along with replacement of contaminated feeds and inclusion of peta-sulphate mixture, and a toxin binder are effective in the prevention and control of aflatoxicosis in buffaloes.
Comparison of Machine Learning Models to Predict Nighttime Crash Severity: A Case Study in Tyler, Texas, USA
Authors: Daoud Raja , Vechione Matthew , Gurbuz Okan , Sundaravadivel Prabha , Tian Chi
Published: February 2025

Driving at night is riskier in terms of crash involvement than it is during the day. Fortunately, it is clearly established that illumination on roadways can reduce the number and severity of nighttime crashes. However, state and municipal departments of transportation (DOTs) lack the available illumination data. Therefore, the objective of this research is threefold, as follows: (i) to develop machine learning models that use readily available roadway characteristic data to predict the severity of nighttime crashes; (ii) determine the effect that illumination has on crash severity; and (iii) develop a tool to assist DOT decision makers in collecting illumination data. To accomplish this objective, we have extracted data from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Crash Record Information System (CRIS) database, which was then further split into a training and a test dataset. Then, seven machine learning techniques, namely binary logistic regression, k-nearest neighbors, naïve Bayes, random forest, artificial neural network, Extreme Gradient Boosting (XGBoost), and a Long Short-Term Memory (LSTM) model, were all applied to the unseen test data. The random forest model produced the most promising results by predicting severe crashes with 97.6% accuracy. In addition, we conducted a pilot study to test the collection of illumination data using a light meter. In the future, we aim to complete the development of a smartphone application, which can be used in conjunction with the random forest model presented in this paper, to collect crowdsourced illumination data and predict nighttime crash hotspots. This may assist DOT decision makers to prioritize funding for illumination at the hot spots.
Isolation, Genomic Characterization, and Immunogenicity Evaluation of a G9P[23] Porcine Rotavirus Strain
Authors: Wang Zixuan , Huang Wen , Yan Gengxuan , Tian Yuan , Wang Chune , Mao Xue , Sun Meng , Zhou Lu , Yu Chong , Xia Haihua
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Rotavirus (RV) is the primary pathogen causing diarrhea in infants and young children. The G9-type is an emerging genotype; however, its isolation is challenging, and its immunogenicity to piglets is poorly understood. This study aimed to isolate, characterize, and evaluate the immunogenicity of a PoRVA strain, RHeN2, obtained from the diarrhea samples of piglets from a pig farm in Henan Province, China. (2) Methods: Porcine rotavirus A (PoRVA) was isolated from diarrheal samples of piglets on a farm in Henan Province, China, through sequential passaging on MA-104 cells. Its immunogenicity and cross-neutralization potential were evaluated. Inactivated vaccines were prepared using two agents (formaldehyde and binary ethyleneimine, BEI) and administered intramuscularly to 28-day-old piglets. Dulbecco’s Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM) served as the control. (3) Results: A PoRVA strain, G9P[23] type, was successfully isolated and named RHeN2. Full-genome Sanger sequencing revealed the genetic constellation of this strain as G9-P[23]-I5-R1-C1- M1-A8-N1-T1-E1-H1. In addition, the titers of neutralizing antibodies peaked at 45 days post-vaccination, and the immunogenicity of the BEI-inactivated group of vaccines was better than that of the formaldehyde-inactivated group. The RHeN2 (G9P[23]) strain demonstrated a strong cross-neutralization ability against the same G9P[23] and G4P[23] strains and a stronger cross-neutralizing ability against the P[23] strains than against the P[7] strains. (4) Conclusion: The newly isolated G9P[23] strain demonstrates favorable immunogenicity, holding potential as a G9-type vaccine candidate.
Individualized Pooled CRISPR/Cas9 Screenings Identify CDK2 as a Druggable Vulnerability in a Canine Mammary Carcinoma Patient
Authors: Inglebert Marine , Dettwiler Martina , He Chang , Markkanen Enni , Opitz Lennart , Naguleswaran Arunasalam , Rottenberg Sven
Published: February 2025

High-throughput omics approaches have long been used to uncover potential vulnerabilities in human personalized oncology but are often limited by the lack of functional validation. Therefore, we placed our emphasis on functional drug testing using patient-derived organoids (PDOs). However, PDOs generated from tumors mostly lack comparison with matching normal tissue, and the number of testable drugs is limited. Here, we demonstrate how matching the neoplastic and non-neoplastic mammary PDOs derived from the same dog can utilize targeted CRISPR/Cas9 screens to unveil cancer cell specific vulnerabilities. We performed two independent CRISPR/Cas9 dropout screens using sub-libraries targeting the epigenome (n = 1269) or druggable genes (n = 834) in paired PDOs derived from both carcinoma and normal mammary tissues from the same dog. A comparison of essential genes for tumor cells survival identified CDK2 as a functional vulnerability in canine mammary tumors (CMTs) that can be targeted with the PF3600 inhibitor. Additional potential targets were also uncovered, providing insights for personalized cancer treatments in dogs.
Methods Used to Assess Bull Sperm Chromatin Integrity and Its Correlation with In Vitro Embryo Production Efficiency
Authors: Silva Matheus Vicente , Rocha Lays Oliveira , Travençolo Bruno Augusto Nassif , Guimarães Ednaldo Carvalho , Beletti Marcelo Emilio
Published: February 2025

Sperm chromatin analysis is a crucial tool for investigating fertility in bulls, both in the field and in in vitro fertilization. This study aimed to identify efficient, low-cost, and easy-to-apply methods for detecting chromatin integrity alterations. Frozen semen samples from four bulls with varying results in in vitro embryo production (IVEP) were used. The sperm chromatin from these samples was evaluated using different methods: differences in the staining intensity with toluidine blue and the Feulgen reaction (FR), assessed both visually and computationally; visual evaluation of smears stained with acridine orange (AO) using epifluorescence and confocal microscopy; and evaluation using transmission electron microscopy (TEM) of sections positively stained with uranyl and lead. The same samples were utilized for IVEP. The results obtained using each method were correlated with one another and with the cleavage and embryonic development rates achieved in IVEPs. The odds ratio was employed to compare the chromatin alteration identification rates of the studied methods. Overall, chromatin integrity alterations identified using the AO and TEM methods exhibited correlations with the cleavage (r = −1.00) and embryonic development rates (r = −1.00), respectively. Among the methods tested, TEM and AO were the most effective for identifying chromatin integrity alterations that interfere with IVEP efficiency.