bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in micro-/nanorobots for cancer diagnosis and treatment: propulsion mechanisms, early detection, and cancer therapy
Authors: Fu Baiyang , Luo Dan , Li Chao , Feng Yiwen , Liang Wenlong
Published: February 2025

In recent years, medical micro-/nanorobots (MNRs) have emerged as a promising technology for diagnosing and treating malignant tumors. MNRs enable precise, targeted actions at the cellular level, addressing several limitations of conventional cancer diagnosis and treatment, such as insufficient early diagnosis, nonspecific drug delivery, and chemoresistance. This review provides an in-depth discussion of the propulsion mechanisms of MNRs, including chemical fuels, external fields (light, ultrasound, magnetism), biological propulsion, and hybrid methods, highlighting their respective advantages and limitations. Additionally, we discuss novel approaches for tumor diagnosis, precision surgery, and drug delivery, emphasizing their potential clinical applications. Despite significant advancements, challenges such as biocompatibility, propulsion efficiency, and clinical translation persist. This review examines the current state of MNR applications and outlines future directions for their development, with the aim of enhancing their diagnostic and therapeutic efficacy and facilitating their integration into clinical practice.
Meta-synthesis of school leadership competencies to support learner-centered, personalized education
Authors: Richardson Jayson W. , Khawaja Sahar
Published: February 2025

This study analyzes the corpus of research on how K–12 school leaders foster deeper learning by creating learner-centered, personalized learning opportunities for students. We used the Leadership Competencies for Learner-Centered, Personalized Education developed by Jobs of the Future (2017) as our conceptual and analytical framework to analyze 42 peer-reviewed empirical articles. The findings detail how school leaders build structures to support learning-centered, personalized experiences for the students they serve.
The absolute number of circulating Treg cells is reduced in difficult-to-treat RA patients and is ameliorated by low-dose IL-2
Authors: Yan Huanhuan , Zi Xiaoyu , Yan Huer , Zhang Xiaoying , Bai Jie , Gao Chong , Li Xiaofeng , Wang Caihong
Published: February 2025

Objective

Circulating regulatory T cells (Tregs) are closely related to immune tolerance and maintenance of immune homeostasis. Perhaps, there is a unique immune cell phenotype for difficult-to-treat rheumatoid arthritis (D2T RA). Low-dose interleukin-2 (IL-2) has been considered for the treatment of autoimmune diseases. This study focused on the uniqueness of D2T RA lymphocyte subsets and the feasibility of low-dose IL-2 therapy.

Methods

Participants included 1,042 RA patients who were divided into three groups according to the presence or absence of treatment and their response to treatment in the last 6 months—new group, treated group, and D2T group—and 339 healthy controls (HCs). A total of 381 patients—107, 151, and 123 in each of the three experimental groups—received low-dose IL-2 treatment [0.5 million international units (MIU) per day, subcutaneous injection from day 1 to day 5]. The absolute numbers of peripheral blood lymphocyte subsets were detected by flow cytometry (FCM) and serum cytokine levels were detected by flow cytometry bead array (CBA).

Results

The absolute number of T, CD4+ T, and Treg cells in the D2T RA group was lower than that in the HC, new, and treated RA groups. Compared with the HC and new RA group, the ratio of Th17/Treg cells in the D2T RA group increased. The new, treated, and D2T RA groups had higher cytokine levels than the HC. The number of Treg cells in RA patients was negatively correlated with the disease activity index. Treg cells in the new, treated, and D2T RA groups could be increased by low-dose IL-2 therapy without any side effects.

Conclusions

The number of lymphocytes and subsets in D2T RA patients was reduced, especially Treg cells, resulting in a shift in the balance of effector T cells/Treg cells toward effector T cells, which is ameliorated by low-dose IL-2 without obvious side effects.
BAFF and APRIL immunotherapy following Bacille Calmette-Guérin vaccination enhances protection against pulmonary tuberculosis in mice
Authors: Xie Min , Tsai Chen-Yu , Woo Joshua , Nuritdinov Frank , Cristaldo Melissa , Odjourian Narineh M. , Antilus-Sainte Rosleine , Dougher Maureen , Gengenbacher Martin
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Bacille Calmette-Guérin (BCG), the only tuberculosis vaccine currently in clinical use, provides inadequate long-term protection. Administered at birth, BCG induces broad immune responses against a large number of antigens shared with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb), but protection wanes over time. We have previously shown that unconventional B cell subsets play a role in tuberculosis control.

Methods

High-dimensional flow cytometry and multiplex cytokine analysis were employed to investigate the effects of immunotherapy on BCG-vaccinated mice in an Mtb challenge model.

Results

In this study, we investigate the potential of recombinant cytokines targeting B cells – B-cell activating factor (BAFF) and A proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) – to modulate BCG immunity and improve protection in mice. Both cytokines play overlapping roles in B cell development and peripheral survival. Following subcutaneous BCG vaccination, immunotherapy with BAFF or APRIL resulted in an increased frequency of unconventional B cells potentially transitioning into antibody-producing plasma cells. Concurrently, we observed an increased frequency of central memory T cells, a subset critical for protective immunity. Changes in cellular immune responses were accompanied by reduced pro-inflammatory cytokine profiles and a contraction of the leukocyte population in lungs. Importantly, mice receiving BCG vaccination followed by BAFF or APRIL immunotherapy exhibited superior long-term protection against pulmonary tuberculosis relative to controls that received only BCG.

Conclusion

In summary, our findings demonstrate that combining BCG vaccination with B cell targeted immunomodulatory therapies can improve long-term protection against pulmonary tuberculosis, highlighting the continued relevance and underutilized potential of BCG as a vaccine platform.
Influence of TiN inclusions and segregation bands on the mechanical properties and ballistic performance during ballistic impact tests in low-alloy high-strength steel
Authors: Tong Keke , Sun Haoran , Duan Luxing , Zuo Xiurong
Published: February 2025

The influence of TiN inclusions and segregation bands on the mechanical properties and ballistic performance was investigated in high-strength steel. With ballistic test at a bullet impact velocity of about 810 m/s, the steel plate displayed the different ballistic performance, forming partially penetrated crater A and the completely penetrated crater B, despite the craters A and B were close together with only about 100 mm. The zone near crater A displayed excellent strength, plasticity and deformability than that near crater B. The segregation bands and TiN inclusions in steel plate originated from central segregation in continuous casting slabs. The Adiabatic shear bands (ASBs) with total length of 14,848 μm around crater B was more serious than that with total length of 6,239 μm around crater A, attributed to the low n value and strain hardening rate in completely penetrated crater region. Cracks parallel to the penetration direction only occurred around the crater B. Cracks also formed along the interfaces of ASB and matrix. The inhomogeneous deformation around ASBs resulted in stress concentration, especially at the interface between the matrix and the segregation band, making the long crack initiation and propagation under load of impact.
Empowering biomedical learners to navigate FDA regulatory processes and entrepreneurship with a novel interdisciplinary training approach
Authors: Cola Philip A. , Mangosh Tawna L.
Published: February 2025

For rising professionals to meet the needs of contemporary healthcare and biomedical innovation, educators must develop new teaching and learning approaches. Specifically, biomedical innovations are significantly influenced by the FDA’s regulatory framework, requiring professionals to be equipped with regulatory science knowledge, entrepreneurial skills, and interdisciplinary training. However, biomedical education often fails to integrate these skills in an environment that mimics the interdisciplinary setting required for translational science, leaving learners unprepared for unique challenges in practice. This study details an FDA Regulation and Entrepreneurship curriculum at Case Western Reserve University and its affiliated community, leveraging a novel approach for biomedical education. Focused on preparing biomedical professionals to navigate FDA regulatory processes and innovative entrepreneurship endeavors, the curriculum is built upon five core principles: integrating multiple disciplines, ensuring real world applicability, developing a systems thinking approach, incorporating ethical considerations, and fostering a collaborative and experiential learning environment. These principles are supported by a flexible course format, targeted learning objectives, team-based learning sessions, experiential learning opportunities, a diverse participant population, and an interdisciplinary team of faculty and experts. High participant engagement and broad representation across fields over the curriculum’s three-year lifespan to date affirm its relevance and value with participants representing the fields of basic science, medicine, law, business, and engineering. The flexible course format, team-based learning, and experiential learning proved instrumental in enhancing engagement, reinforcing practical learning outcomes, and supporting personalized learning goals. The flexible course format further aligns with professional needs of participants, providing a model for other institutions navigating similar challenges in biomedical education. In conclusion, participant feedback demonstrated the value of the interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary training approach in promoting knowledge retention and skill development in complex medical, business management and legal contexts. Moving forward, targeted outreach and flexible engagement options will be necessary to expand the curricular reach and diverse participant population. The success of the curriculum suggests promising implications for similar approaches aimed at empowering biomedical professionals with essential regulatory, entrepreneurial and interdisciplinary competencies, ultimately advancing translational science and improving healthcare outcomes.
Influence of the polysaccharide capsule on virulence and fitness of Klebsiella pneumoniae
Authors: Zierke Lisa , Mourad Rodi , Kohler Thomas P. , Müsken Mathias , Hammerschmidt Sven
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The capsular polysaccharide (CPS) of pathogenic bacteria is a critical virulence factor, often evading phagocytosis by host immune cells, while also interfering with the contact of the pathogen with host cells and contributing to biofilm formation. Klebsiella pneumoniae, a Gram-negative human pathogen associated with high antimicrobial resistances, produces 77 CPS serotypes. The CPS masks proteinaceous factors but also protects K. pneumoniae from uptake by host phagocytic cells and activation of the complement system. In addition to nosocomial, urinary tract and bloodstream infections or pneumonia hypervirulent strains have a highly mucoid phenotype and can cause soft tissue infections, liver abscesses, and meningitis as well. The CPS is therefore crucial for both escaping detection by the immune system and enhancing the virulence potential.

Methods

In this study, we generated a non-encapsulated mutant (Kpn2146∆wza) to observe how the CPS interferes with K. pneumoniae adhesion, survival in blood, and invasiveness in an experimental infection model.

Results

Infection of A549 lung epithelial cells showed similar adherence levels for the wild-type and non-capsulated strain, while our data showed a moderately higher internalization of Kpn2146Δwza when compared to the wild-type. In whole blood killing assays, we demonstrate that the K. pneumoniae capsule is essential for survival in human blood, protecting K. pneumoniae against recognition and clearance by the human immune system, as well as complement-mediated opsonization and killing. The non-encapsulated mutant, in contrast, was unable to survive in either whole blood or human plasma. Infections of Galleria mellonella larvae showed a significantly decreased virulence potential of the CPS-deficient mutant.

Discussion

In conclusion, our data indicate a crucial role of CPS in vivo.
Loudness dependence of the auditory evoked potential: temporal stability, associations to sociodemographic variables, and functional significance—implications for clinical research
Authors: Andersson Stein , Rygvold Trine Waage , Hatlestad-Hall Christoffer
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The loudness dependence of the auditory evoked potential (LDAEP) has been suggested as a biomarker for central serotonergic function, and as such a proxy for serotonin related psychiatric symptomatology and intervention outcome, particularly in depression. This study aims to explore LDAEP characteristics in a large healthy population by assessing its test–retest reliability and examining associations with sociodemographic variables, psychological distress, and performance-based cognitive function.

Methods

Our sample included 100 healthy adults whose LDAEP was measured and correlated with age, sex, self-reported psychological distress, and cognitive performance.

Results

Participants examined twice (n = 38) showed high test-retest reliability with intraclass correlations (ICCs) between 0.67 and 0.89 over a 2-to-3-month interval. Furthermore, the magnitude of the LDAEP was significantly higher in women than men, and female hormonal contraceptive users exhibited higher LDAEP than non-users. In females, age was inversely correlated with LDAEP. However, no significant associations were found between LDAEP and measures of psychological distress, including depressive symptoms, nor with cognitive test performance.

Discussion

These results underline LDAEP's reliability as a biomarker over time, but also highlight age, sex and hormonal contraceptive use as significant factors influencing the LDAEP. Future research in clinical population should take these results into account, with an emphasis on providing the necessary sample sizes for relevant sub-group analyses.
Safety assessment of rosuvastatin-fenofibrate combination in the treatment of hyperlipidemia based on FDA’s adverse event reporting system database
Authors: Li Qun , Shan Wenya , Wu Saiwei
Published: February 2025

Background

With the improvement of living standards, an increasing number of patients are presenting with mixed hyperlipidemia. In addition to cholesterol reduction, it is imperative to lower triglyceride levels. The combination of statin and fibrate for reducing lipid levels has commonly been applied in clinical therapy. However, the combination of drugs also increases the risk of adverse events (AEs). In this study, we analyzed the safety signals of rosuvastatin-fenofibrate combination by assessing the publicly available US Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS), so as to provide a reference for rational clinical use of rosuvastatin and fenofibrate, and reduce the occurrence of related AEs.

Methods

Reports to the FAERS from 1 January 2004 to 19 March 2020 were analyzed. The proportional report ratio (PRR), reporting odds ratio (ROR), and Bayesian Confidence Propagation Neural Network (BCPNN) analysis were used to extract data from FAERS for suspected signals referring to the combination of rosuvastatin and fenofibrate.

Results

A total of 68 safety signals were detected from the top 250 AEs in 3,587 reports, of which 28 signals were not included in the drug labels. All the detected AEs were associated with 12 System Organ Classes (SOC), such as gastrointestinal, musculoskeletal and connective tissue, general diseases, investigations and nervous system. The most frequent AEs were analyzed, and it was found that women generally have a higher susceptibility to experiencing AEs, including pain, nausea, fatigue, myalgia, diarrhea, dyspnea, headache, weakness, and dizziness.

Conclusion

Clinicians should pay more attention to the AEs of gastrointestinal and muscular system during combination therapy, and it is recommended to strengthen pharmaceutical care during clinical application.
The importance of genotyping within the climate-smart plant breeding value chain – integrative tools for genetic enhancement programs
Authors: Garcia-Oliveira Ana Luísa , Ortiz Rodomiro , Sarsu Fatma , Rasmussen Søren K. , Agre Paterne , Asfaw Asrat , Kante Moctar , Chander Subhash
Published: February 2025

The challenges faced by today’s agronomists, plant breeders, and their managers encompass adapting sustainably to climate variability while working with limited budgets. Besides, managers are dealing with a multitude of issues with different organizations working on similar initiatives and projects, leading to a lack of a sustainable impact on smallholder farmers. To transform the current food systems as a more sustainable and resilient model efficient solutions are needed to deliver and convey results. Challenges such as logistics, labour, infrastructure, and equity, must be addressed alongside adapting to increasingly unstable climate conditions which affect the life cycle of transboundary pathogens and pests. In this context, transforming food systems go far beyond just farmers and plant breeders and it requires substantial contributions from industry, global finances, transportation, energy, education, and country developmental sectors including legislators. As a result, a holistic approach is essential for achieving sustainable and resilient food systems to sustain a global population anticipated to reach 9.7 billion by 2050 and 11.2 billion by 2100. As of 2021, nearly 193 million individuals were affected by food insecurity, 40 million more than in 2020. Meanwhile, the digital world is rapidly advancing with the digital economy estimated at about 20% of the global gross domestic product, suggesting that digital technologies are increasingly accessible even in areas affected by food insecurity. Leveraging these technologies can facilitate the development of climate-smart cultivars that adapt effectively to climate variation, meet consumer preferences, and address human and livestock nutritional needs. Most economically important traits in crops are controlled by multiple loci often with recessive alleles. Considering particularly Africa, this continent has several agro-climatic zones, hence crops need to be adapted to these. Therefore, targeting specific loci using modern tools offers a precise and efficient approach. This review article aims to address how these new technologies can provide a better support to smallholder farmers.
Genotyping-by-sequencing derived SNP markers reveal genetic diversity and population structure of Dactylis glomerata germplasm
Authors: Altaf Muhammad Tanveer , Cavagnaro Pablo Federico , Kökten Kağan , Ali Amjad , Morales Andres , Tatar Muhammed , Bedir Mehmet , Nadeem Muhammad Azhar , Aasim Muhammad , Çeliktaş Nafiz , Mansoor Sheikh , Baloch Faheem Shehzad
Published: February 2025

Orchardgrass (Dactylis glomerata L.), a widely cultivated cool-season perennial, is an important forage crop due to its adaptability, high nutritional value, and substantial biomass. Understanding its genetic diversity and population structure is crucial for developing resilient cultivars that can withstand climate change, diseases, and resource limitations. Despite its global significance in fodder production, the genetic potential of many regional accessions remains unexplored, limiting breeding efforts. This study investigates the genetic diversity (GD) and population structure of 91 accessions of D. glomerata from Turkey and Iran using genotyping-by-sequencing based single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers. A total of 2913 high-quality SNP markers revealed substantial genetic variability across provinces. Notably, accessions from Erzurum exhibited the highest GD (mean GD: 0.26; He: 0.5328), while provinces such as Bursa and Muğla demonstrated lower GD (mean GD: 0.15; He < 0.22), suggesting potential genetic bottlenecks. Population structure analysis using Bayesian clustering, PCoA and UPGMA dendrograms divided the accessions into three distinct clusters, with cluster membership largely reflecting geographical origins, and dry biomass content. Cluster II revealed higher GD, associated with enhanced biomass production (128 g/plant), the most important agronomic trait in forage species, supporting the notion of heterosis in breeding programs. The majority of the genetic variation (85.8%) was observed within clusters, with minimal differentiation among clusters (FST = 0.007). Genome-wide association studies (GWAS) identified significant marker-trait associations for dry biomass weight, a critical agronomic trait, with markers DArT-100715788, DArT-101043591, and DArT-101171265 and DArT-101090822 located on Chromosomes 1, 6, and 7 respectively. These findings highlight the importance of regional diversity for maintaining adaptive potential in future breeding programs.
Genetic diversity of Rhododendron dauricum based on morphological traits and SSR markers
Authors: Wang Dan , Ma Ying , Zhao Xueli , Wang Ling
Published: February 2025

Rhododendron dauricum L. is one of the most important ornamental plants in Northeast China for its beautiful flowers. Wild R. dauricum populations are mainly distributed in Greater and Lesser Khingan Mountains in Heilongjiang, China. The diversity of R. dauricum germplasm resources in these areas has not been determined and it can be dynamic due to increasing climate change and human activities, which poses a challenge to effective conservation efforts. To promote genetic diversity conservation and develop new R. dauricum varieties, we performed a systematic morphological and molecular evaluation of R. dauricum populations in the in 13 populations. The results showed significant inter- and intra-population variations. Clustering revealed 3 major groups. Importantly, plants showing extreme variations in flower color and flower number were used to further develop two new cultivars 'Ao Xue' and 'Yanricai', respectively. In addition, nine SSR markers exhibited polymorphism among the 13 populations, and 25 alleles were found. The Shannon information index (I) was 0.6359, and the polymorphism information index (PIC) was 0.3460. The genetic diversity index (Nei's) was 0.3575, and the observable heterozygosity (Ho, 0.2514) was lower than the expected heterozygosity (He, 0.3722). The average genetic differentiation coefficient (Fst) among populations was 0.6556. Several populations with relatively high genetic diversity including Huzhong, Tahe, and Hongxing were identified. We also found that SSR-based clustering generally follows the geographical distances among the populations. Lastly, we identified two SSR markers that were highly correlated with flower color and leaf aspect ratio. Together, our data provided useful information on the germplasm distribution and variation evolution of R. dauricum, which will be valuable for cultivar improvement, protection, and future diversity conservation efforts.
Stability and changes in meaning in life profiles and their impact on mental health among chinese university students: a latent transition analysis
Authors: Kwok Sylvia Y. C. L. , Fang Siqi , Huang Bella Meici , Addis Tesfaw Alebel , Deng Xi
Published: February 2025

Background

Research on meaning in life (MIL) has predominately adopted variable-centered approaches. The few person-centered studies conducted were generally cross-sectional in nature and have failed to address changes in MIL. Furthermore, few studies have explored the stability of and changes in MIL on wellbeing.

Methods

We used latent transition analysis (LTA) to assess the MIL profiles of Chinese university students and to relate their experiences of meaning to their wellbeing. Meaning in Life Questionnaire, Brief Symptom Inventory, and the Mental Health Continuum Short Form were applied. In total, 317 students from five universities in Hong Kong participated in the survey at two time points 9 months apart.

Results

The LTA identified three distinct profiles among the participants: meaning-oriented, bewildered, and indifferent. The LTA mover–stayer model revealed the relative stability of the students’ MIL profiles over 9 months. Specifically, the indifferent profile group was the most unstable, with a stability of 66.6%, suggesting that a significant portion of students in this group changed profiles. Conversely, the bewildered profile group had the greatest number of movers (64.8%), indicating a higher degree of flux within this group as well. Regarding the adaptive outcomes associated with each profile, results showed that students in the meaning-oriented profile group demonstrated the most adaptive outcomes, evidenced by the highest wellbeing scores and the lowest anxiety and depression scores among all the students.

Conclusion

These findings provide insights into MIL profiles and how they change among Chinese university students. We also identified a relatively adaptive profile. Overall, these findings have practical implications and can contribute to advancing research on mental health and meaning.
Confronting the anxiety of Generation Z: electroacupuncture therapy regulates oxidative stress and microglia activity in amygdala-basolateral of socially isolated mice
Authors: Yin Tong , Yuan Junyun , Liu Lu , Wang Yinxin , Lin Yuanfang , Ming Kangwen , Lv Hang
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Anxiety disorders are prevalent mental health conditions characterized by significant impairments in daily functioning and social interactions. Despite the effectiveness of pharmacological treatments, challenges such as medication resistance, adverse side effects, and the high rate of relapse necessitate the exploration of alternative therapies. Recently, electroacupuncture (EA) has garnered attention as a promising non-pharmacological intervention for anxiety disorders; however, the mechanisms by which EA exerts its anxiolytic effects remain poorly understood. This study aims to elucidate the role of microglial cells in anxiety, specifically examining how EA modulates microglial morphology and function within the basolateral amygdala (BLA) in the context of anxiety induced by social isolation.

Methods

Utilizing a mouse model of social isolation-induced anxiety, we evaluated anxiety-like behaviors through the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM) and Open Field Test (OFT). Additionally, biochemical analyses and immunofluorescence imaging were performed to assess the expression of NADPH oxidase 2 (NOX2), microglial activation markers, and levels of oxidative stress.

Results

Our findings reveal that EA treatment significantly mitigates anxiety-like behaviors in mice, correlating with a reduction in NOX2 expression within BLA microglia and decreased levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Furthermore, EA was observed to restore normal microglial morphology, indicating its potential role in modulating microglial activity.

Discussion

The results of this study suggest that EA exerts its anxiolytic effects through the modulation of oxidative stress and the activity of microglia in the BLA. These findings provide new insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying the therapeutic effects of EA, highlighting the potential for non-pharmacological strategies in the management of anxiety disorders and paving the way for future research aimed at improving clinical outcomes for individuals suffering from anxiety.
Failure in the adhesion of hydroxyapatite coatings to surgical screws: a fourier transform infrared spectroscopy qualitative study
Authors: Pereyra Mariana , Navatta Marco , Méndez Eduardo
Published: February 2025

Failure in the adhesion between hydroxyapatite and the metallic substrate in commercial biomaterials is one of the significant drawbacks in implantology. The demand for confident analytical methods to characterize these coatings is met through a rigorous research process. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was chosen as the method to characterize hydroxyapatites. A meticulous data analysis from FTIR spectra was conducted, and an FTIR library was constructed from FTIR spectra of different types of hydroxyapatites, considering several chemical environments. The analytical procedure involved the registry of the spectra, localization of the leading absorption bands from the minima of the second derivative spectra, and reconstitution of the original spectra by curve deconvolution. The FTIR library was employed to analyze commercial surgical screws that failed in their use in different implants. Our methodology identified the structural reasons for such failure, caused by the selective removal of non-apatitic environments during adsorption onto the metallic implant. The method identifies the adhesion degree of the apatite coating on the implant before implantation in a biological organism, thereby preventing additional patient interventions and the associated costs.
Biochar and straw amendments drive microbial regulation of phosphorus dynamics in saline-irrigated cotton fields
Authors: Ye Yang , Guo Xiaowen , Li Yueyao , Min Wei , Guo Huijuan
Published: February 2025

Saline water drip irrigation is a potential solution for addressing freshwater scarcity in arid regions. However, prolonged use can accumulate soil salinity and reduce phosphorus (P) availability. Biochar and straw amendments have been shown to alleviate these effects, but their mechanisms in regulating microbial genes involved in P transformation under long-term saline irrigation remain unclear. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of biochar and straw incorporation on soil microbial community structure and P availability in saline-irrigated cotton fields. Based on a 14-year field trial, three treatments were developed: saline water irrigation alone (CK), saline water irrigation with biochar (BC), and saline water irrigation with straw (ST). Results indicated that both amendments significantly enhanced soil water content, organic carbon, total P, available P, and inorganic P fractions (Ca10-P, Al-P, Fe-P, and O-P) while reducing soil electrical conductivity and Ca2-P and Ca8-P fractions. Biochar increased the relative abundance of Chloroflexi, Gemmatimonadetes, and Verrucomicrobia, while straw promoted Proteobacteria and Planctomycetota. Both treatments decreased the abundance of several P mineralization genes (e.g., phoD, phoA) and increased genes associated with P solubilization (e.g., gcd). Microbial populations and P cycling genes were shown to be tightly associated with soil characteristics, with Ca2-P and Al-P serving as important mediators, according to correlation studies. Generally, under long-term salty irrigation, biochar, and straw amendments reduced soil salinity, raised soil P availability, decreased the expression of phosphorus cycling-related microbial genes, and improved soil characteristics. These results made them excellent techniques for sustainable soil management.
The impact of dietary phosphorus levels on growth, slaughter, and digestive metabolism in growing sheep
Authors: Zhao Shoupei , Ni Xiaojun , Zhou Jia , Zhao Xiaoqi , Wen Xiao , Wang Xiaolin , Cao Mingyu , Zhao Yanfei , Shao Chong , Lu Lianghao , Chen Yuanyuan , Zhang Bao , Yang Huaming , Xue Bai , Quan Guobo
Published: February 2025

Phosphorus (P) pollution from livestock farming poses significant environmental challenges, necessitating efficient P utilization. This study systematically investigated the effects of varying dietary P levels on growth, slaughter performance, nutrient digestion, and metabolism in Yunnan Semi-fine Wool Sheep during the growth phase. Forty-five sheep (30.33 ± 0.56 kg) were randomly assigned to five dietary P levels (0.40, 0.51, 0.68, 0.82, and 0.97%) over a 44-day trial, including a 14-day pre-feeding and 30-day formal trial period. Digestibility trials were conducted on days 22–27, and selected sheep were slaughtered for detailed analysis. Results showed no significant effects of dietary P on daily weight gain, feed-to-gain ratio, or organ indices (p > 0.05). However, dry matter intake, liver, and lung weights decreased linearly with increasing P levels (p < 0.05). Carcass traits such as left half carcass rate and net rib rate varied significantly (p < 0.05), showing quadratic trends. P levels also affected P, calcium, protein, and energy metabolism, as well as apparent digestibility of acid detergent fiber (p < 0.05). Using endogenous loss and comparative slaughter methods, the P maintenance requirement was determined as: Retained p = 0.5436 × Intake P – 0.0614 (R2 = 0.83, p < 0.01). P requirements for growth were modeled as: P (g/kg EBW) = 30.95772 × EBW – 0.5031. The recommended dietary P level was 0.40%, with maintenance and growth requirements of 0.06 g/EBW and 5.34–6.19 g/kg EBW, respectively, providing a foundation for P reduction strategies.
Study on Structure Design and Parameter Optimization of Diversion Rifled Feeder Based on CFD-DEM
Authors: Dong Wancheng , Zhang Xiongye , Jiang Zhen , Hu Xue , Ge Yun , Zhang Lixin
Published: February 2025

The feeder, a critical component of pneumatic conveying and distributing fertilizer machines for cotton, significantly impacts cotton quality and yield. This study addresses the limitations of conventional feeders, namely poor delivery stability and insufficient air–fertilizer mixture uniformity, by introducing a novel feeder design incorporating guide-flow chamber vanes. Based on the structural principles of pneumatic fertilizer distribution and the theory of vortex flow feeding, the new feeder design was developed and analyzed using a CFD-DEM coupled model to simulate its operational process. Response surface methodology was employed to optimize key structural parameters, aiming to enhance both air–fertilizer mixture uniformity and fertilizer delivery stability. The optimized design features two guide vanes, a fertilizer discharge contraction angle of 23.2°, and eight chamber lines. Validation through simulation confirmed the model’s reliability, with a discrepancy of less than 5% between simulated and predicted values. Experimental validation on a pneumatic fertilizing test prototype further demonstrated the effectiveness of the optimization, resulting in a feeder stability coefficient of variation of 13.30% and a coefficient of variation in fertilizer distribution across the system’s branches of 3.96%, satisfying practical operational requirements. After optimization, the stability and uniformity of the feeder fertilizer are significantly improved. The optimized feeder design effectively improves the stability and air–fertilizer mixing uniformity of cotton pneumatic fertilizing machines, providing valuable theoretical and technical support for their design optimization and performance enhancement.
Muscle Activity of Superimposed Vibration in Suspended Kneeling Rollout
Authors: Huertas Pol , Buscà Bernat , Arboix-Alió Jordi , Miró Adrià , Esquerrà Laia H. , Peña Javier , Vicens-Bordas Jordi , Aguilera-Castells Joan
Published: February 2025

Training using instability devices is common; however, for highly trained athletes, a single device may not provide sufficient challenge. This study examines the effect of superimposed vibration in suspended kneeling rollout. Seventeen physically active participants performed the exercise with non-vibration, vibration at 25 Hz, and vibration at 40 Hz. Muscle activation of the pectoralis clavicularis, pectoralis sternalis, anterior deltoid, serratus anterior, infraspinatus, and latissimus dorsi was recorded during exercise, and the perception of effort was recorded after exercise (OMNI-Res scale). One-way repeated-measures analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed significant differences for the kneeling rollout (p < 0.05). Friedman’s test showed significant differences in the OMNI-Res (p = 0.003). Pairwise comparison showed significant differences in the anterior deltoid (p = 0.004), latissimus dorsi (p < 0.001), infraspinatus (p = 0.001), and global activity (p < 0.001) between the 25 Hz and non-vibration conditions. It also showed significant differences between the 40 Hz and non-vibration conditions for pectoralis sternalis (p = 0.021), anterior deltoid (p = 0.005), latissimus dorsi (p < 0.001), infraspinatus (p = 0.027), and global activity (p < 0.001). The post hoc Conover pairwise comparison showed significant differences in the OMNI-Res only between the non-vibration and vibration at 40 Hz conditions (p = 0.011). Superimposed vibration increases the muscle activation of the upper limbs when performing the suspended kneeling rollout.
Research on Space Maglev Vibration Isolation Control System Modeling and Simulation
Authors: Ye Mao , Wang Jianyu
Published: February 2025

The working accuracy of space optical payloads and sensitive components carried on space aircraft greatly depends on the pointing accuracy and stability of the platform. Based on Disturbance Free Payload (DFP) technology, non-contact maglev technology is proposed in this paper, achieving dynamic and static isolation of the platform module and payload module, so that the vibration and interference of the platform module with movable and flexible components will not be transmitted to the payload module, thereby achieving the effect of vibration isolation. High-precision active control of the payload module is adopted at the same time; the platform module follows the master–slave collaborative control strategy of the payload module, meeting the requirements of high-performance payloads. A primary and backup redundant controller is designed, using a one-to-four architecture. The control board achieves high-speed and high-precision driving current control, voltage output, and outputs current feedback signal sampling. Based on uniform magnetic field design, high-precision force control performance is ensured by adjusting current accuracy. Interdisciplinary joint simulation of electric, magnetic, and structural aspects was conducted on the magnetic levitation isolation system. By conducting physical testing and calibration and designing a testing and calibration system, it has been proven that the system meets the design requirements, achieving high-precision current control technology of 0.15 mA and driving force control technology of 0.5 mN.
Multi-Modality Fusion and Tumor Sub-Component Relationship Ensemble Network for Brain Tumor Segmentation
Authors: Zhou Jinyan , Wang Shuwen , Wang Hao , Li Yaxue , Li Xiang
Published: February 2025

Deep learning technology has been widely used in brain tumor segmentation with multi-modality magnetic resonance imaging, helping doctors achieve faster and more accurate diagnoses. Previous studies have demonstrated that the weighted fusion segmentation method effectively extracts modality importance, laying a solid foundation for multi-modality magnetic resonance imaging segmentation. However, the challenge of fusing multi-modality features with single-modality features remains unresolved, which motivated us to explore an effective fusion solution. We propose a multi-modality and single-modality feature recalibration network for magnetic resonance imaging brain tumor segmentation. Specifically, we designed a dual recalibration module that achieves accurate feature calibration by integrating the complementary features of multi-modality with the specific features of a single modality. Experimental results on the BraTS 2018 dataset showed that the proposed method outperformed existing multi-modal network methods across multiple evaluation metrics, with spatial recalibration significantly improving the results, including Dice score increases of 1.7%, 0.5%, and 1.6% for the enhanced tumor core, whole tumor, and tumor core regions, respectively.
Immune Evasion in Stem Cell-Based Diabetes Therapy—Current Strategies and Their Application in Clinical Trials
Authors: Mu-u-min Razik Bin Abdul , Diane Abdoulaye , Allouch Asma , Al-Siddiqi Heba Hussain
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Human pancreatic islet transplantation shows promise for long-term glycemic control in diabetes patients. A shortage of healthy donors and the need for continuous immunosuppressive therapy complicates this. Enhancing our understanding of the immune tolerance mechanisms related to graft rejection is crucial to generate safer transplantation strategies. This review will examine advancements in immune protection strategies for stem cell-derived islet therapy and discuss key clinical trials involving stem cell-derived β-cells and their protective strategies against the host immune system. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was performed on peer-reviewed publications on Google Scholar, Pubmed, and Scopus up to September 2024 to extract relevant studies on the various strategies of immune evasion of stem cell-derived β-cells in humans. The literature search was extended to assimilate all relevant clinical studies wherein stem cell-derived β-cells are transplanted to treat diabetes. Results: Our analysis highlighted the importance of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) as a potentially unlimited source of insulin-producing β-cells. These cells can be transplanted as an effective source of insulin in diabetes patients if they can be protected against the host immune system. Various strategies of immune protection, such as encapsulation and genetic manipulation, are currently being studied and clinically tested. Conclusions: Investigating immune tolerance in hPSC-derived islets may help achieve a cure for diabetes without relying on exogenous insulin. Although reports of clinical trials show promise in reducing insulin dependency in patients, their safety and efficacy needs to be further studied to promote their use as a long-term solution to cure diabetes.
“The Dark Side of Musculoskeletal Care”: Why Do Ineffective Techniques Seem to Work? A Comprehensive Review of Complementary and Alternative Therapies
Authors: Mamud-Meroni Lucas , Tarcaya Germán E. , Carrasco-Uribarren Andoni , Rossettini Giacomo , Flores-Cortes Mar , Ceballos-Laita Luis
Published: February 2025

The increasing interest in complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs) for musculoskeletal care has sparked significant debate, particularly regarding their biological plausibility and clinical effectiveness. This comprehensive review critically examines the use of two of the most widely utilized CAMs—osteopathy and chiropractic care—over the past 25 years, focusing on their biological plausibility, clinical effectiveness, and potential mechanisms of action. Our analysis of current research and clinical studies reveals that osteopathy and chiropractic are based on concepts such as “somatic dysfunction” and “vertebral subluxation”, which lack robust empirical validation. While these therapies are often presented as credible treatment options, studies evaluating their effectiveness frequently exhibit serious methodological flaws, providing insufficient empirical support for their recommendation as first-line treatments for musculoskeletal conditions. The effects and mechanisms underlying osteopathy and chiropractic remain poorly understood. However, placebo responses—mediated by the interaction of contextual, psychological, and non-specific factors—appear to play a significant role in observed outcomes. The integration of therapies with limited biological plausibility, whose effects may primarily rely on placebo effects, into healthcare systems raises important ethical dilemmas. This review highlights the need for rigorous adherence to scientific principles and calls for a more comprehensive investigation into biobehavioral, contextual, and psychosocial factors that interact with the specific effects of these interventions. Such efforts are essential to advancing our understanding of CAMs, enhancing clinical decision-making, promoting ethical practices, and guiding future research aimed at improving patient care in musculoskeletal disorders.
Therapeutic Targets and Approaches to Manage Inflammation of NAFLD
Authors: Geng Wanying , Liao Wanying , Cao Xinyuan , Yang Yingyun
Published: February 2025

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and its advanced form, non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), are the leading causes of chronic liver disease globally. They are driven by complex mechanisms where inflammation plays a pivotal role in disease progression. Current therapies, including lifestyle changes and pharmacological agents, are limited in efficacy, particularly in addressing the advanced stages of the disease. Emerging approaches targeting inflammation, metabolic dysfunction, and fibrosis offer promising new directions, though challenges such as treatment complexity and heterogeneity persist. This review concludes the main therapeutic targets and approaches to manage inflammation currently and emphasizes the critical need for future drug development and combination therapy for NAFLD/NASH management.
GATA3-Driven ceRNA Network in Lung Adenocarcinoma Bone Metastasis Progression and Therapeutic Implications
Authors: Liu Yun , Shen Shihui , Wang Xudong , Chen Hansen , Ren Wenjie , Wei Haifeng , Li Kun , Li Lei
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Bone metastasis is a common and severe complication of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD), impacting prognosis and treatment outcomes. Understanding the molecular mechanisms behind LUAD bone metastasis (LUADBM) is essential for developing new therapeutic strategies. The interactions between long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), microRNAs (miRNAs), and mRNAs in the competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network are crucial in cancer progression and metastasis, but the regulatory mechanisms in LUADBM remain unclear. Methods: Microarray analysis was performed on clinical samples, followed by weighted gene co-expression network analysis (WGCNA) and construction of a ceRNA network. Molecular mechanisms were validated using colony formation assays, transwell migration assays, wound healing assays to assess cell migration, and osteoclastogenesis assays to evaluate osteoclast differentiation. Potential therapeutic drugs and their binding affinities were predicted using the CMap database and Kdeep. The interaction between the small-molecule drug and its target protein was confirmed by surface plasmon resonance (SPR) and drug affinity responsive target stability (DARTS) assays. Mechanistic insights and therapeutic efficacy were further validated using patient-derived organoid (PDO) cultures, drug sensitivity assays, and in vivo drug treatments. Results: Our results identified the XLOC_006941/hsa-miR-543/NPRL3 axis as a key regulatory pathway in LUADBM. We also demonstrated that GATA3-driven Th2 cell infiltration creates an immunosuppressive microenvironment that promotes metastasis. Additionally, we confirmed that the inhibitor E7449 effectively targets NPRL3, and its combination with the IL4R-blocking antibody dupilumab resulted in improved therapeutic outcomes in LUADBM. Conclusions: These findings offer new insights into the molecular mechanisms of LUADBM and highlight potential therapeutic targets, including the XLOC_006941/miR-543/NPRL3 axis and GATA3-driven Th2 cell infiltration. The dual-target therapy combining E7449 with dupilumab shows promise for improving patient outcomes in LUADBM, warranting further clinical evaluation.