bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Duckweed: a starch-hyperaccumulating plant under cultivation with a combination of nutrient limitation and elevated CO2
Authors: Guo Ling , Fang Yang , Wang Songhu , Xiao Yao , Ding Yanqiang , Jin Yanling , Tian Xueping , Du Anping , Liao Zhihua , He Kaize , Chen Shuang , Zhao Yonggui , Tan Li , Yi Zhuolin , Che Yuqing , Chen Lanchai , Li Jinmeng , Zhao Leyi , Zhang Peng , Gu Zhengbiao , Zhang Fangyuan , Hong Yan , Zhang Qing , Zhao Hai 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe increasing global demand for starch has created an urgent need to identify more efficient and sustainable production methods. However, traditional starch sources, such as crop-based options, experience significant bottlenecks due to limitations in land use, water consumption, and the impacts of climate change. Therefore, there is a pressing need to explore and develop new sources of starch.MethodsWe develop a novel duckweed cultivation technology that combines nutrients limitation and CO2 supplementation to achieve very high starch content. In this study, we integrated whole-genome sequencing, epigenomics, transcriptomics, enzyme activity, and composition variation to elucidate the mechanisms of efficient starch accumulation in duckweed in terms of starch accumulation and carbon partitioning, regulation of the expression of genes in the starch metabolic pathway, and sucrose biosynthesis and transportation.Results and discussionAlthough Landoltia punctata exhibits dramatic gene family contraction, its starch content and productivity reached 72.2% (dry basis) and 10.4 g m-2 d-1, respectively, in 10 days, equivalent to a yield of 38.0 t ha-1 y-1, under nutrient limitation treatment with elevated CO2 levels. We also examined the mechanism of high starch accumulation in duckweed. This phenomenon is associated with the regulation of DNA methylation and transcription factors as well as the significantly upregulated transcription levels and the increased activities of key enzymes involved in starch biosynthesis. Moreover, while nitrogen redistribution was increased, sucrose biosynthesis and transportation and lignocellulose biosynthesis were reduced. These alterations led to a reduction in lignocellulose and protein contents and ultimately an increase in the accumulation of starch in the chloroplasts.ConclusionThis work demonstrates the potential of duckweed as a highly efficient starch producer.
Effects of a 7-week active breaks intervention program on physical literacy and body mass index
Authors: Urbano-Mairena Javier , Muñoz-Bermejo Laura , Carlos-Vivas Jorge , Pastor-Cisneros Raquel , Montenegro-Espinosa José Adrián , Mendoza-Muñoz María 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionPhysical literacy (PL) emerges as a highly effective resource for creating lasting physical activity habits at a time when physical inactivity has become one of the main risk factors in our population. Thus, active breaks (AB) could be an ideal option for increasing physical activity time in schoolchildren.MethodsA cross-sectional quasi-experimental study was conducted, involving 89 participants aged 8-12 years from Extremadura. The Canadian assessment of physical literacy (CAPL-2) was administered to assess the participants' physical literacy level. The BMI was also measured.ResultsHigher scores were obtained in all domains and subdomains of the CAPL in the experimental group. Significant differences were found both in total physical literacy score (p &lt; 0.001) and in all domains and subdomains, except for the subdomains self-reported question, intrinsic motivation and knowledge and understanding domain (p = 0.344).ConclusionThe results of the study support the positive effects of an AB program of PL and its domains. The development of active break programs could help to increase the PL level of schoolchildren.
Evaluating the relative predictive validity of measures of self-referential processing for depressive symptom severity
Authors: Tan Ethel Siew Ee , Tan Hong Ming , Fong Kah Vui , Tey Sheryl Yu Xuan , Rane Nikita , Ho Chong Wei , Tan Zhao Yuan , Ong Rachel Jing Min , Teo Chloe , Yu Jerall , Lee Maxine , Teo An Rae , Ong Sin Kee , Lim Xin Ying , Kee Jin Lin , Keppo Jussi , Tan Geoffrey Chern-Yee 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionThe self-referential encoding task (SRET) has a number of implicit measures which are associated with various facets of depression, including depressive symptoms. While some measures have proven robust in predicting depressive symptoms, their effectiveness can vary depending on the methodology used. Hence, understanding the relative contributions of population differences, word lists and calculation methods to these associations with depression, is crucial for translating the SRET into a clinical screening tool. MethodsThis study systematically investigated the predictive accuracy of various SRET measures across different samples, including one clinical population matched with healthy controls and two university student populations, exposed to differing word lists. Participants completed the standard SRET and its variations, including Likert scales and matrix formats. Both standard and novel SRET measures were calculated and compared for their relative and incremental contribution to their associations with depression, with mean squared error (MSE) used as the primary metric for measuring predictive accuracy. ResultsResults showed that most SRET measures significantly predicted depressive symptoms in clinical populations but not in healthy populations. Notably, models with task modifications, such as Matrix Endorsement Bias and Likert Endorsement Sum Bias, achieved the lowest mean squared error (MSE), indicating better predictive accuracy compared to standard Endorsement Bias measures. DiscussionThese findings imply that task modifications such as utilising Likert-response options and the use of longer word lists may enhance the effectiveness of screening methods in both clinical and research settings, potentially improving early detection and intervention for depression.
The association between digital technology use and depression among older people in China: a moderated mediation model
Authors: Wu Qinmei , He Wei , Wang Jinfu , Du Litao , Xue Xiangli , He Qiang , Pan Yang , Chen Si , Zhang Xianliang 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveTo investigate the association among multidimensional (Digital engagement, DE; Digital devices, DD; and Digital purpose, DP) digital technology use and depression in older Chinese, considering social participation as a mediator and physical activity level (PAL) as a moderator.MethodsData on 5,744 participants (aged≥60) were extracted from the China Health and Retirement Longitudinal Study 2020 dataset. Depression was assessed using the 10-item Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Logistic regression examined the association between digital technology use and depression. The PROCESS program’s Model 4 evaluated the mediating role of social participation, while Model 7 assessed the moderating role of PAL.ResultsDigital technology use was negatively associated with depression (DE, OR= 0.722, 95%CI: 0.609, 0.858; DD, OR= 0.739, 95%CI: 0.634, 0.860; DP, OR= 0.916, 95%CI: 0.881, 0.952). Various dimensions of digital technology use exerted direct effects on depression scores of 85.87% (DE, OR= -0.638, 95%CI: -1.036, -0.240), 86.09% (DD, OR= -0.526, 95%CI: -0.844, -0.208), and 87.82% (DP, OR= -0.173, 95%CI: -0.259, -0.087), respectively, and social participation mediated 14.13%, 13.91%, 12.18%. PAL exerted a positive moderating effect on the first half path of mediation, especially with the vigorous PAL (DE, OR= 0.591, 95%CI: 0.230, 0.952; DD, OR= 0.515, 95%CI: 0.206, 0.824; DP, OR= 0.157, 95%CI: 0.075, 0.239).ConclusionsMultidimensional digital technology use showed an association with depression in older adults. Promoting social participation through digital technology use is associated with lower depressive symptom scores, and vigorous PAL further strengthens this association, leading to improved mental health.
Association of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances with gout risk: a cross-sectional analysis of NHANES 2007–2018 data emphasizing mixture effects
Authors: Feng Haixin , Li Siran , Huang Shiqing , He Linxi , Huang Ruihao , Wei Renhuizi , Peng Xin , Yan Haiyi , Xiong Chongxiang , Zhang Bingsong 
Published: February 2025

ObjectiveThis study examined associations between serum concentrations of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) and gout risk in the U.S. adult population using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007–2018 data. And assessing the potential intermediary effect of uric acid.MethodsThe study included 8,494 participants, with 385 having gout. Four PFAS compounds (PFOA, PFOS, PFHxS, PFNA) were measured. PFOS is the most prevalent PFAS in the environment, biota, and human tissues. It is rapidly absorbed and accumulates in the liver, kidneys, and blood, binding to serum albumin and low-density lipoprotein. PFOA is highly persistent in the body, mainly accumulating in the kidneys and liver through enterohepatic circulation, posing risks due to its difficulty in metabolism and excretion. PFHxS has the longest metabolic half-life in humans (7.3 years) and bioaccumulates in the endocrine, immune, nervous, and reproductive systems. PFNA is the second most detected PFAS in human serum after PFOS. It is more likely to accumulate and express toxicity in the reproductive organs, liver, and immune system compared to PFOS and PFOA. Multivariate logistic regression and weighted quantile sum regression were used to assess individual and mixture effects. Mediation analysis was conducted to estimate effect of uric acid.ResultsIn fully adjusted model, the associations were nonsignificant, with PFOA showing a marginally positive association. Mixture analysis revealed a significant positive association with gout risk across all models. PFOS was the largest contributor to the mixture effect. Stronger associations were observed in old people and females. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of these findings. Mediation analysis indicated significant intermediary effect of uric acid in the associations of PFAS with risk of gout, with the mediated proportion ranging from 48 to 77%.ConclusionThis study provides evidence for a potential link between PFAS exposure and gout risk, particularly when considering mixtures. While associations with individual PFASs are largely explained by demographic and lifestyle factors, the persistent association of mixtures with gout risk highlights the importance of considering combined exposures in environmental health research. Uric acid level plays a crucial intermediary effect.
Effects of group music sessions on cognitive and psychological functions in healthy older adults
Authors: Shinada Takamitsu , Takahashi Michio , Uno Akari , Soga Keishi , Taki Yasuyuki 
Published: February 2025

IntroductionWith the rapid aging of the population worldwide and the prevalence of dementia and mental health problems among older adults, it is important to extend healthy life expectancy by maintaining brain and mental health. Playing musical instruments, which requires the integration of auditory, visual, and somatosensory functions, is considered an effective way to prevent the development of dementia. However, the effectiveness of group (band) music sessions in healthy older adults has not been investigated. Our purpose, therefore, was to investigate the effects of group music sessions on cognitive and psychological functions among healthy older adults.MethodsIn this open-label randomized controlled trial, participants aged 65–74, who had no musical experience, were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. The intervention group received in weekly 90-minute sessions with the instrument for 16 weeks. The control group received no intervention.ResultsThe results showed that the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) total score and the Wechsler Memory Scale Logical Memory Ⅱ (WMS-LM Ⅱ) score improved significantly, and the Vigor–Activity subscale score of the Profile of Mood States 2nd Edition (POMS 2) tended to improve.DiscussionThese findings indicated that group music sessions have a potentially beneficial effect for maintaining and improving cognitive and psychological functions in healthy older adults.
Case Report: Surgical treatment of lumbar ligamentum flavum cysts combined with spinal instability causing radiculopathy
Authors: Yang Keshi , Ji Changbin , Luo Dawei , Yin Jiwei , Wu Xiaozhe , Xu Hui 
Published: February 2025

PurposeThis study aimed to describe a case of a patient with a lumbar ligamentum flavum cyst combined with spinal instability who underwent cyst resection and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF).MethodsWe present a rare case of a patient with a lumbar ligamentum flavum cyst combined with spinal instability causing radiculopathy. The patient underwent cyst resection and transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion.ResultsThe patient underwent follow-up for 3 years postoperatively and remained asymptomatic, with favorable radiographic results.ConclusionsCysts resection and TLIF for ligamentum flavum cysts combined with spinal instability can achieve sufficient and effective decompression while simultaneously restoring spinal stability. Therefore, this approach is both an effective and safe treatment option.
The Enhancement of Biomass Accumulation, Caffeoylquinic Acid Derivative Production, and Antioxidant Activity of Rhaponticum carthamoides Transformed Roots Cultured in a Nutrient Sprinkle Bioreactor
Authors: Skała Ewa , Olszewska Monika A. , Kicel Agnieszka 
Published: February 2025

Rhaponticum carthamoides (Willd.) Iljin. is an endemic plant species found in Siberia, Mongolia, and Kazakhstan. Its roots and rhizomes are used to treat physical fatigue and weakness following illness. The present study examines the scaling up of caffeoylquinic acid (CQA) derivative and flavonoid production in R. carthamoides transformed roots. The transformed roots were grown in shaken Erlenmeyer flasks of varying volumes (0.5–2 L), a temporary immersion system (TIS) (Rita® and PlantForm bioreactors), and a nutrient sprinkle bioreactor (NSB) in Woody Plant medium for 35 days. The highest dry biomass production was achieved in the 0.5 L and 1 L flasks and in the NSB bioreactor, yielding 22.2 to 20.4 g/L—approximately 14 to 23 times the weight of the inoculum. The accumulation of individual specialized metabolites varied depending on the culture system used. The peak amount of CQAs (544.5 mg/L), in terms of the increase in dry weight and metabolite levels, was obtained in the NSB bioreactor. The primary CQAs were chlorogenic acid (5-CQA) and a tri-CQA 1. The highest concentration of 5-CQA (7.38 mg/g DW) was found in the roots cultivated in the NSB bioreactor. In contrast, the tri-CQA 1 dominated in the roots from 2 L shaken Erlenmeyer flasks (8.44 mg/g DW). Our findings demonstrate that transformed roots growing in an NSB bioreactor are an effective system for increasing CQA production, potentially serving as an alternative source. This biotechnological approach could help reduce the overexploitation of field-grown R. carthamoides, a currently threatened species.
Evaluation of the Effects of Epicoccum nigrum on the Olive Fungal Pathogens Verticillium dahliae and Colletotrichum acutatum by 1H NMR-Based Metabolic Profiling
Authors: Angilè Federica , Riolo Mario , Cacciola Santa Olga , Fanizzi Francesco Paolo , Santilli Elena 
Published: February 2025

Olive trees are a cornerstone of Mediterranean agriculture but face significant threats from diseases such as Verticillium wilt and olive anthracnose. These diseases, caused by Verticillium dahliae and Colletotrichum spp., respectively, result in significant economic losses and degrade olive oil quality. While traditional chemical treatments present environmental risk, sustainable alternatives such as biological control agents (BCAs) are gaining attention. Epicoccum nigrum, an antagonistic fungus, has shown potential as a BCA due to its production of antimicrobial secondary metabolites. This study aimed to observe whether E. nigrum has an antagonistic ability against V. dahliae and C. acutatum, and to elucidate the metabolic interactions between these fungi using NMR-based metabolomics. E. nigrum showed inhibitory effects on the growth of C. acutatum and V. dahlia of 44.97% and 38.73% respectively. Metabolomic profiling revealed distinct biochemical responses in E. nigrum, V. dahliae, and C. acutatum under mono- and dual-culture. Multivariate statistical analysis highlighted the metabolic shifts in mycelia and identified the primary metabolites, such as glutamine, 4-aminobutyrate, and phenylalanine that are involved in adaption for survival in stress conditions such as the presence of a competitor. The results could be important for a better understanding of the primary fungal metabolism, which is still poorly characterized. Further investigation is needed, but these results suggest that E. nigrum could serve as a BCA, offering a more sustainable approach to managing olive diseases.
Optimized Phase-Generated Carrier Demodulation Algorithm for Membrane-Free Fabry-Pérot Acoustic Sensor with High Sensitivity
Authors: Yang Yang , Zhao Xinyu , Zheng Yongqiu , Cui Juan , Zhao Dongqing , Zheng Zhixuan , Cao Yan , Xue Chenyang 
Published: February 2025

Demodulation of fiber optic Fabry–Pérot (F-P) acoustic sensors with high sensitivity and a large dynamic range continues to pose significant challenges. In this paper, we propose an advanced phase-generated carrier (PGC) demodulation algorithm, applied innovatively to membrane-free F-P acoustic sensors operating under high sound pressure. The algorithm optimizes acoustic demodulation results by adjusting the mixing phase delay, achieving the best signal to noise and distortion ratio (SINAD) and total harmonic distortion (THD) (<1%). Additionally, by introducing the cosine component of the acoustic signal obtained directly after filtering the interference signal, into the demodulation algorithm process, the sensitivity of the sensor at high sound pressure is significantly improved. The experimental results show that the ameliorated algorithm obtains a demodulation sensitivity of 34.95 μrad/Pa and a THD of 0.87%, both of which are superior to traditional PGC demodulation algorithms under the same experimental conditions. At the same time, the minimum detectable sound pressure of 129.73 mPa/Hz1/2 was obtained, and the sound pressure tested in the experiment at a frequency of 1 kHz was as high as 3169.78 Pa (164 dB). With the proposed algorithm, the flatness of the frequency response is ±0.82 dB from 100 Hz to 33 kHz, and a dynamic range of up to 102.6 dB was obtained, making it relevant in the field of aerospace acoustic measurements.
Advancing Renewable Energy Systems: A Numerical Approach to Investigate Nanofluidics’ Role in Engineering Involving Physical Quantities
Authors: Basit Muhammad Abdul , Imran Muhammad , Anwar-Ul-Haq Tayyiba , Yan Chang-Feng , Breaz Daniel , Cotîrlă Luminita-Ioana , Danciu Alin 
Published: February 2025

Nanofluids, with their enhanced thermal properties, provide innovative solutions for improving heat transfer efficiency in renewable energy systems. This study investigates a numerical simulation of bioconvective flow and heat transfer in a Williamson nanofluid over a stretching wedge, incorporating the effects of chemical reactions and hydrogen diffusion. The system also includes motile microorganisms, which induce bioconvection, a phenomenon where microorganisms’ collective motion creates a convective flow that enhances mass and heat transport processes. This mechanism is crucial for improving the distribution of nanoparticles and maintaining the stability of the nanofluid. The unique rheological behavior of Williamson fluid, extensively utilized in hydrometallurgical and chemical processing industries, significantly influences thermal and mass transport characteristics. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations (PDEs), derived from conservation laws and boundary conditions, are converted into dimensionless ordinary differential equations (ODEs) using similarity transformations. MATLAB’s bvp4c solver is employed to numerically analyze these equations. The outcomes highlight the complex interplay between fluid parameters and flow characteristics. An increase in the Williamson nanofluid parameters leads to a reduction in fluid velocity, with solutions observed for the skin friction coefficient. Higher thermophoresis and Williamson nanofluid parameters elevate the fluid temperature, enhancing heat transfer efficiency. Conversely, a larger Schmidt number boosts fluid concentration, while stronger chemical reaction effects reduce it. These results are generated by fixing parametric values as 0.1<ϖ<1.5, 0.1<Nr<3.0, 0.2<Pr<0.5, 0.1<Sc<0.4, and 0.1<Pe<1.5. This work provides valuable insights into the dynamics of Williamson nanofluids and their potential for thermal management in renewable energy systems. The combined impact of bioconvection, chemical reactions, and advanced rheological properties underscores the suitability of these nanofluids for applications in solar thermal, geothermal, and other energy technologies requiring precise heat and mass transfer control. This paper is also focused on their applications in solar thermal collectors, geothermal systems, and thermal energy storage, highlighting advanced experimental and computational approaches to address key challenges in renewable energy technologies.
Assessment of Resistance of Varroa destructor to Formic and Lactic Acid Treatment—A Systematic Review
Authors: Kosch Yvonne , Mülling Christoph , Emmerich Ilka U. 
Published: February 2025

Varroa destructor represents one of the most significant pathogens affecting Apis mellifera. A multitude of treatment modalities exist, including those based on pharmaceutical and biotechnological principles. A few years after the first use of synthetic acaricides, Varroa destructor developed resistance to these substances, becoming a significant concern. The present review assesses the potential risk of resistance development to formic and lactic acid. This is performed by evaluating sources in the literature over the past 30 to 40 years following the PRISMA 2020 guidelines. Median annual efficacies are determined and evaluated over time. Independent of pharmaceutical form, mite populations are considered non-resistant for efficacies higher than 70%. After the assessment of outliers for lactic acid, the remaining limited data are insufficient to draw conclusions on resistance. The reported unusually low efficacy values for formic acid can be explained by inadequate evaporation rates and study settings. Notably, for both acids, the findings are limited by a low number of efficacy values, and further, more detailed and standardized studies are needed.