Supplementary material:
Supplementary File 1 (ZIP, 1281 KiB)

The Huang–Huai–Hai Plain is a primary wheat production base in China, where lodging remains a critical constraint limiting yield improvement and quality enhancement. Both nitrogen application and wheat varieties are key factors influencing crop lodging resistance. This study aimed to comparatively analyze the [...] Read more.

The Huang–Huai–Hai Plain is a primary wheat production base in China, where lodging remains a critical constraint limiting yield improvement and quality enhancement. Both nitrogen application and wheat varieties are key factors influencing crop lodging resistance. This study aimed to comparatively analyze the differential responses of wheat varieties with distinct gluten properties to nitrogen fertilization gradients and elucidated the physiological mechanisms underlying the nitrogen-mediated regulation of lodging resistance in gluten-type wheat. A two-year field experiment was conducted in Xuchang City, Henan Province, from 2019 to 2021. The experimental design incorporated four varieties of wheat (two medium-gluten wheat varieties, YM49-198 and JM325, and two strong-gluten wheat varieties, XN979 and JM44) and five nitrogen (N) fertilizer levels: 0 kg·ha⁻¹ (N₀), 120 kg·ha⁻¹ (N₁₂₀), 180 kg·ha⁻¹ (N₁₈₀), 240 kg·ha⁻¹ (N₂₄₀), and 360 kg·ha⁻¹ (N₃₆₀). Each treatment was repeated three times, and each plot was completely randomly arranged in the field. An appropriate amount of nitrogen fertilizer significantly increased the wheat yield, with the 240 kg ha⁻¹ treatment achieving maximum yields for YM49-198, JM325, and JM44 from 2020 to 2021, but not for XN979. Quality parameters were significantly affected by varieties and nitrogen fertilizer levels. The results showed that the crude protein contents of XN979 and JM44 were 15.13% and 18.06%, respectively, under the N₂₄₀ treatment; the lodging resistance index of the medium-gluten wheat was higher than that of the strong-gluten wheat. Under the N₂₄₀ treatment in 2020–2021, the lodging resistance indexes of YM49-198, JM325, XN979, and JM44 were 12.2, 13.9, 7.9, and 11.7, respectively. Nitrogen fertilizer can increase wheat yield and ensure quality, but excessive application can decrease these factors and intensify lodging risk. The lodging index of the medium-gluten wheat was more sensitive to the amount of nitrogen fertilizer. When the nitrogen application is 240 kg·ha⁻¹, the quality indicators of medium- and strong-gluten wheat should meet standards, and the yield will be stable in the Huang–Huai–Hai Plain. These findings highlight the importance of adopting precision nitrogen management strategies and gluten-type-specific cultivation practices in wheat production systems. This could effectively balance yield stability, quality optimization, and lodging risk mitigation to ensure the sustainable intensification of wheat cultivation in the Huang–Huai–Hai Plain and similar agro-ecological regions.Full article

Previous studies have focused on the fact that government policies are the key factors in promoting the development of intelligent construction in construction enterprises. However, how to select different forms of policy support and quantify the intensity of policy support, as well as [...] Read more.

Previous studies have focused on the fact that government policies are the key factors in promoting the development of intelligent construction in construction enterprises. However, how to select different forms of policy support and quantify the intensity of policy support, as well as the impact on the behavioral strategies of construction enterprises and the government, still needs in-depth exploration. This paper constructs an evolutionary game model between construction companies and the government, using the system dynamics simulation software Vensim to analyze the model under three different government policy support scenarios. The study explores how varying levels of policy support and key factors influence the strategic choices of the game participants, providing valuable insights for promoting the development of intelligent construction. The key findings are as follows: (1) The willingness to adopt intelligent construction is heavily dependent on policy incentives. The incentive effect of the three single policies is much lower than that of the combined policies, and only high-intensity special fund support (more than 8 CNY/m²) significantly promotes widespread adoption. Among combinations of policies, tax incentives coupled with special funds prove most effective. (2) The government’s decision to actively promote intelligent construction hinges on a cost–benefit analysis. Under medium to high levels of special fund support, medium to low levels of service support are more beneficial for reaching a stable state of intelligent construction implementation. (3) Reducing the incremental costs of intelligent construction transformation is the primary key factor in promoting construction. The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of how both the government and construction companies can adjust their strategies in response to policy changes, ultimately leading to more effective policy implementation and strategic decision-making.Full article

Computer games have emerged as valuable tools for education and training. In particular, serious games, which combine learning with entertainment, offer unique potential for engaging users and enhancing knowledge acquisition. This paper presents a case study on the design, development, and evaluation of [...] Read more.

Computer games have emerged as valuable tools for education and training. In particular, serious games, which combine learning with entertainment, offer unique potential for engaging users and enhancing knowledge acquisition. This paper presents a case study on the design, development, and evaluation of two serious games, “Silent Kingdom” and “Job Interview Simulator”, created using Unreal Engine 5 and incorporating speech emotion recognition (SER) technology. Through a systematic analysis of the existing research in SER and game development, these games were designed to elicit a wide range of emotion responses from player and collect voice data for the enhancement of SER models. By evaluating player engagement, emotional expression, and overall user experience, this study investigates the effectiveness of serious games in collecting speech data and creating more immersive player experiences. The research also explores the technical limitations of SER integration within game environments in real-time, as well as its impact on player enjoyment. Although there are some technology limitations due to the latency provided for real-time SER analysis, the results reveal that a properly developed game with integrated SER technology could become a more engaging and efficient tool for crowdsourcing speech data.Full article

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Background/Objectives: Anemia is common in critically ill patients, yet red blood cell (RBC) transfusion without active bleeding does not consistently improve outcomes and carries risks such as pulmonary injury, fluid overload, and increased costs. Optimal transfusion thresholds remain debated, with some guidelines [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Anemia is common in critically ill patients, yet red blood cell (RBC) transfusion without active bleeding does not consistently improve outcomes and carries risks such as pulmonary injury, fluid overload, and increased costs. Optimal transfusion thresholds remain debated, with some guidelines recommending a restrictive target of 7 g/dL instead of a more liberal target of 9 g/dL.Methods: We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis following PRISMA guidelines, searching PubMed, EMBASE, and LILACS from January 1995 to October 2024. Thirteen randomized controlled trials involving 13,705 critically ill adults were included, with 6855 assigned to liberal and 6850 to restrictive transfusion strategies. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool 2, and the pooled effect sizes were estimated with a random-effects model. We registered the protocol in PROSPERO International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (CDR42024589225).Results: No statistically significant difference was observed in 30-day mortality between restrictive and liberal strategies (odds ratio [OR] 1.02; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.83–1.25; I² = 49%). Similarly, no significant differences emerged for the 90-day or 180-day mortality, hospital or intensive care unit (ICU) length of stay, dialysis requirement, or incidence of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). However, patients in the restrictive group received significantly fewer RBC units. The trial sequential analysis (TSA) indicated that the evidence accrued was insufficient to definitively confirm or exclude an effect on the 30-day mortality, as the required sample size was not reached.Conclusions: In conclusion, while our meta-analysis found no statistically significant difference in the short-term mortality between restrictive and liberal transfusion strategies, larger trials are needed to fully determine whether any clinically meaningful difference exists in critically ill populations.Full article

This paper seeks to present the fundamental features of the category of conditional exponential convex functions (CECFs). Additionally, the study of continuous CECFs contributes to the characterization of convolution semigroups. In this context, we expand our focus to include a much broader class [...] Read more.

This paper seeks to present the fundamental features of the category of conditional exponential convex functions (CECFs). Additionally, the study of continuous CECFs contributes to the characterization of convolution semigroups. In this context, we expand our focus to include a much broader class of Gaussian processes, where we define the generalized Fourier transform in a more straightforward manner. This approach is closely connected to the method by which we derived the Gaussian process, utilizing the framework of a Gelfand triple and the theorem of Bochner–Minlos. A part of this work involves constructing the reproducing kernel Hilbert spaces (RKHS) directly from CECFs.Full article

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Background and Objectives: Endothelial cells are essential to various therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Developing efficient methods to generate large quantities of well-defined endothelial cells could improve cardiovascular treatment. This study explored the impact of lab-on-a-chip technology on the endothelial differentiation potential [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Endothelial cells are essential to various therapeutic strategies for cardiovascular diseases. Developing efficient methods to generate large quantities of well-defined endothelial cells could improve cardiovascular treatment. This study explored the impact of lab-on-a-chip technology on the endothelial differentiation potential of mesenchymal stem cells derived from the human inferior nasal turbinate (hNTSCs).Materials and Methods: hNTSCs were isolated from five patients and divided into two groups: an experimental group subjected to lab-on-a-chip technology and a control group following two-dimensional differentiation protocols. The endothelial differentiation capacity of hNTSCs was assessed through histological examination and gene expression analysis.Results: Comparative evaluation of traditional differentiation methods and lab-on-a-chip technology indicated that hNTSCs expressed endothelial cell-specific markers, including CD34, KDR, CDH5, and CD31. Notably, CD31, CD34, and CDH5 exhibited significantly elevated expression levels in the lab-on-a-chip system. Additionally, cytokine analysis showed marked increases in IL-1a and IL-8 expression under lab-on-a-chip conditions compared to standard differentiation techniques.Conclusions: Lab-on-a-chip technology may enhance the differentiation of hNTSCs into endothelial cells with angiogenic potential, highlighting its promise for future cardiovascular regenerative applications.Full article

Background: The overhead squat movement involves various bodily structures, but the interaction with three-dimensional elastic resistance along the kinetic chain approach requires further understanding.Objectives: We aim to describe and compare scapular and trunk kinematics during an overhead squat under different external [...] Read more.

Background: The overhead squat movement involves various bodily structures, but the interaction with three-dimensional elastic resistance along the kinetic chain approach requires further understanding.Objectives: We aim to describe and compare scapular and trunk kinematics during an overhead squat under different external resistance conditions.Methods: The three-dimensional shoulder and trunk kinematics of 19 male participants were captured at 15-degree intervals, from 30 to 120 degrees, during the overhead squat movement and analyzed by phase.Results: Scapular posterior tilt was significantly affected by resistance during the UNLOAD phase (p = 0.005, η²ₚ = 0.26). Significant resistance-by-arm elevation interactions were found for scapular upward rotation during the LOAD phase (p = 0.003, η²ₚ = 0.19) and UNLOAD phase(p < 0.001, η²ₚ = 0.24); for scapular internal rotation during both the LOAD (p < 0.001, η²ₚ = 0.37) and UNLOAD phases (p = 0.006, η² = 0.19); and for scapular posterior tilt during both the LOAD (p = 0.003, η²ₚ = 0.26) and the UNLOAD phases (p = 0.006, η²ₚ = 0.21). Trunk flexion/extension showed a significant effect on resistance during the LOAD phase (p = 0.008, η²ₚ = 0.24).Conclusions: Increasing resistance through elastic resistance significantly improves scapular kinematics via the trunk during arm elevation. This underscores the potential of the overhead squat movement as a valuable tool for assessing and treating scapular and trunk dysfunction.Full article

In contemporary times, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) were recognized as substantial sources of odorous emissions, potentially impacting nearby communities’ sensory experience. This study investigates the half-lives (T½) of odorous compounds emitted from WWTPs and their degradation due to atmospheric hydroxyl radicals (•OH) in [...] Read more.

In contemporary times, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) were recognized as substantial sources of odorous emissions, potentially impacting nearby communities’ sensory experience. This study investigates the half-lives (T½) of odorous compounds emitted from WWTPs and their degradation due to atmospheric hydroxyl radicals (•OH) in different environmental settings. The calculated half-lives of specific odorants in rural areas ranged from 31.36 min to 517.33 days, in urban areas from 42.50 min to 1550 days, and in the marine boundary layer from 42.50 min to 129,861 days. These results show that compounds with high reactivity and short T½, such as methanethiol and ethanethiol, degrade rapidly and are less likely to contribute to long-term odor nuisances. In contrast, compounds with longer half-lives, such as carbonyl sulfide and ammonia, persist longer in the atmosphere, with higher potential for sustained odor issues. The findings suggest that •OH plays a significant role in degrading odorous compounds. These insights into odorant–oxidant kinetics may aid in predicting atmospheric half-lives and their contribution to secondary aerosol formation, thus informing regulatory and mitigation strategies to improve air quality.Full article

The Ya’nan sag has experienced more than 40 years of exploration, but only the Ya 13-1 large gas field has been found. In recent years, no oil or gas field has been found, and exploration work is difficult. To clarify the main controlling [...] Read more.

The Ya’nan sag has experienced more than 40 years of exploration, but only the Ya 13-1 large gas field has been found. In recent years, no oil or gas field has been found, and exploration work is difficult. To clarify the main controlling factors of the oil and gas reservoirs in Ya’nan Sag, the direction of oil and gas exploration is highlighted. Based on 3D seismic data combined with drilling information, this paper determines the basic geological conditions, clarifies the main controlling factors of reservoir formation, and predicts strong exploration directions. The research revealed the following: ① The source rocks of the Yacheng Formation in the Ya’nan sag are developed, and the types are II2-III, with excellent resource potential. ② In-depth analysis of the drilled wells revealed that high-quality reservoirs, oil-source faults, and caprock conditions are the main controlling factors of hydrocarbon accumulation in Ya’nan sag.Full article

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In this study, the chemically supported ionic liquids (CSILs) were synthesized by ultrasound irradiation (UI) to improve the preparation process and further strengthen the adsorption performance of CSILs towards vanadium (V). The impacts of UI and conventional mechanic stirring (CMS) on the synthesis [...] Read more.

In this study, the chemically supported ionic liquids (CSILs) were synthesized by ultrasound irradiation (UI) to improve the preparation process and further strengthen the adsorption performance of CSILs towards vanadium (V). The impacts of UI and conventional mechanic stirring (CMS) on the synthesis and adsorption characteristics of polystyrene [1-butyl-3-methylimidazolium][nitrate] (PS[C₄mim][NO₃]) were comparatively investigated. The experimental results demonstrate that ultrasound can dramatically shorten the preparation time from 1920 min to 15 min, and HNO₃ dosage is reduced by 15.79%. Under the same adsorption conditions, the CSILs synthesized by UI achieve the maximal adsorption capacity towards vanadium (V) as 248.95 mg/g at 150 min, while the CSILs processed by CMS reach 223.90 mg/g at 105 min. Particularly, the adsorption capacity of CSILs synthesized by UI can be maintained as 96.42% of the initial value after 10 cycles of adsorption–desorption, while that of CSILs processed by CMS maintain as 94.87%. The adsorption isotherm and kinetics fitting demonstrate that vanadium (V) adsorption by two CSILs is dominated by chemisorption as a single molecular layer. Additionally, the adsorption reaction of vanadium (V) by these two CSILs are both endothermic, and entropy increases. Fourier transform infrared, scanning electron microscopy, and energy spectrometry analyses prove that PS[C₄mim][NO₃] is successfully prepared by UI and CMS methods, and ultrasound waves will not destroy the intact spherical structure of the support resins. The current work provides a novel insight for the efficient synthesis of CSILs, which is also a potential technique for improving the adsorption performance of the adsorbents towards valuable metals.Full article

Microorganisms associated with soil and plants, also known as the phytomicrobiome, include beneficial members that provide critical ecosystem services and pathogens that threaten food safety and security [...]Full article

This review aims to summarize the evolution of surgical techniques for periacetabular metastatic cancer, assess their strengths and limitations, and clarify the corresponding indications. We conducted a comprehensive literature review on periacetabular metastatic cancer, summarizing surgical techniques involving both open and minimally invasive [...] Read more.

This review aims to summarize the evolution of surgical techniques for periacetabular metastatic cancer, assess their strengths and limitations, and clarify the corresponding indications. We conducted a comprehensive literature review on periacetabular metastatic cancer, summarizing surgical techniques involving both open and minimally invasive approaches. Additionally, we evaluated the indications for different minimally invasive techniques and proposed potential combinations of these techniques. Our review underscores the benefits of minimally invasive surgery, including reduced surgical trauma, improved patient mobility, lower complication rates, and expedited recovery times, facilitating earlier initiation of systemic cancer therapies. These techniques show substantial potential for broader application in the future. Despite the historical reliance on open surgery as the standard treatment, minimally invasive approaches are emerging as a promising alternative, particularly for managing osteolytic metastases around the acetabulum. This review provides insights into the optimal integration of these techniques, aiming to support evidence-based clinical decision-making and improve patient outcomes.Full article

With the rise of virtual avatars in professional, educational, and recreational settings, this study investigates how different avatar types—varying in realism, gender, and identity—affect user perceptions of embodiment, acceptability, technostress, privacy, and preferences. Two studies were conducted with 42 participants in Study 1 [...] Read more.

With the rise of virtual avatars in professional, educational, and recreational settings, this study investigates how different avatar types—varying in realism, gender, and identity—affect user perceptions of embodiment, acceptability, technostress, privacy, and preferences. Two studies were conducted with 42 participants in Study 1 and 40 in Study 2, including professionals and students with varying VR experiences. In Study 1, participants used pre-assigned avatars they could control during interactions. In Study 2, an interviewer used different avatars to interact with participants and assess their impact. Questionnaires and correlation analyses measured embodiment, technostress, privacy, and preference variations across contexts. Results showed that hyper-realistic avatars resembling the user enhanced perceived embodiment and credibility in professional and educational settings, while non-realistic avatars were preferred in recreational contexts, particularly when interacting with strangers. Technostress was generally low, though younger users were more sensitive to avatar appearance, and privacy concerns increased when avatars were controlled by others. Gender differences emerged, with women expressing more concern about appearance and men preferring same-gender avatars in professional environments. These findings highlight the need for VR platform designers to balance realism with user comfort and address privacy concerns to encourage broader adoption in professional and educational applications.Full article

Rubber buffers are one of the most important components for structural vibration damping in light aircraft. This study presents a finite element model developed using ABAQUS, which has been experimentally validated. The stiffness of rubber buffers with varying geometric parameters under different loading [...] Read more.

Rubber buffers are one of the most important components for structural vibration damping in light aircraft. This study presents a finite element model developed using ABAQUS, which has been experimentally validated. The stiffness of rubber buffers with varying geometric parameters under different loading conditions was analyzed using ABAQUS. The stiffness of rubber buffers is predicted via a BP neural network model. A novel approach integrating the finite element method with neural network analysis is proposed. This method initially derives buffer stiffness data through the finite element model, which is subsequently utilized to train the neural network model for predicting rubber buffer stiffness. The results indicate that both geometric parameters and loading conditions significantly affect the stiffness of rubber buffers. The proposed integration of the finite element method and neural network analysis not only reduces time and economic costs but also enhances calculation accuracy, rendering it more suitable for engineering applications. Comparative analyses reveal that the prediction accuracy of the BP neural network ranges from 67.59% to 88.5%, which is higher than that of traditional formulas. Furthermore, the model demonstrates superior capability in addressing multivariate linear coupling relationships.Full article

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Based on comprehensive proteomic analysis conducted across various stages of secondary hair follicles (SHFs), the growth and development regulatory mechanisms of SHFs in Jiangnan cashmere goats were studied. Proteomic analysis of skin tissue from the SHF anagen (An), catagen (Cn), and telogen (Tn) [...] Read more.

Based on comprehensive proteomic analysis conducted across various stages of secondary hair follicles (SHFs), the growth and development regulatory mechanisms of SHFs in Jiangnan cashmere goats were studied. Proteomic analysis of skin tissue from the SHF anagen (An), catagen (Cn), and telogen (Tn) revealed 145 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) between the An and Tn, 53 DEPs between the Cn and An, and 168 DEPs between the Cn and Tn. Gene Ontology (GO) annotations indicated that the DEPs were predominantly involved in keratin filament formation (KRTAP3-1, KRT1, KRT8), intermediate filament formation (KRT26, KRT35, KRT19, etc.), and lipid metabolism (FA2H, CERS6, ECH1, TECR, etc.). Furthermore, Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis identified significant enrichment of DEPs in pathways related to hair follicle growth and development. Notably, these included the PPAR signaling pathway (PLIN2, PLIN4, ACSL5, etc.), the IL-17 signaling pathway (S100A7A, LOC108633164), and the estrogen signaling pathway (KRT26, KRT35, LOC102176457.). Western blotting (WB) experiments were then performed on five DEPs (KRT28, FA2H, PLIN2, FABP7, and VNN1) to validate the consistency of the WB results with the proteomic data. Overexpression and siRNA interference ofPLIN2 in dermal papilla cells (DPCs) were followed by CCK8 and flow cytometry assays, revealing thatPLIN2 knockdown significantly decreased DPC proliferation while inducing apoptosis, compared to controls. These findings suggest that thePLIN2 gene plays a crucial role in modulating SHF growth cycles in cashmere goats by influencing DPC proliferation. These results provide novel insights that could inform the development of breeding strategies aimed at enhancing the cashmere yield in such goats.Full article

Photovoltaic power generation as a green energy source is often used in power systems, but the volatility of PV output and randomness of the problem affect the stability of the power-grid power supply; so, for the problem of low prediction accuracy of photovoltaic [...] Read more.

Photovoltaic power generation as a green energy source is often used in power systems, but the volatility of PV output and randomness of the problem affect the stability of the power-grid power supply; so, for the problem of low prediction accuracy of photovoltaic power generation under different weather conditions, this paper proposes a Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD), combined with a Complementary Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition with Adaptive Noise (CEEMDAN) secondary decomposition method for the original signal decomposition, to reduce the signal volatility and reduce the complexity of feature mapping the PV data, followed by the use of a BiLSTM model to model the timing information of the decomposed IMF. Simultaneously, the Informer model predicts the components obtained from the secondary decomposition, and finally, the subsequence is reconstructed and superimposed to obtain the PV power prediction value. The results show that the RMSE and MAE of the proposed model are improved by up to 10.91% and 17.33% on the annual PV dataset, with high prediction accuracy and stability, which can effectively predict the ultra-short-term power of PV power plants.Full article

This study identifies critical success factors contributing to the digital transformation of SMEs. Despite their crucial role in the economy, limited research explores how they navigate digitalization challenges. This study addresses this gap by proposing the DASAT framework with four cyclically interrelated elements: [...] Read more.

This study identifies critical success factors contributing to the digital transformation of SMEs. Despite their crucial role in the economy, limited research explores how they navigate digitalization challenges. This study addresses this gap by proposing the DASAT framework with four cyclically interrelated elements: Digital Awareness, Digital Strategy and Roadmap, Digital Adoption and Implementation, and Digital Transformation Continuous Improvement. Using a Total Interpretive Structural Modeling (TISM) approach, we construct a hierarchical model analyzing the interconnections among key factors. The findings align with the dynamic capability framework and digital transformation theory, emphasizing digital literacy, digital inclusion, and organizational flexibility for SMEs’ successful digital transformation. This study contributes theoretically by extending the digital transformation literature with a structured capability-building framework. It provides a practical roadmap for SMEs to strengthen their competitive advantage in an increasingly digital business environment.Full article

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Gender differences in understanding the meanings of affect cues, often labeled emotion recognition, have been studied for over a century. Past reviews of the literature have concluded that girls and women score higher than boys and men on tests of accuracy in decoding [...] Read more.

Gender differences in understanding the meanings of affect cues, often labeled emotion recognition, have been studied for over a century. Past reviews of the literature have concluded that girls and women score higher than boys and men on tests of accuracy in decoding affect cues, which are most often tested in the cue modalities of face, body, and content-free voice. The present meta-analysis updates knowledge on this topic by including many more studies (1188 effect sizes in 1011 studies; totalN = 837,637) and examining a wide range of moderators such as health status of sample, international location, cue channels of the test, and other sample and test characteristics. Indeed, the gender difference favoring girls and women still exists, and evidence for publication bias was weak. The difference is not large (r = 0.12,d = 0.24), but it is extremely consistent across many moderators, which, even when significant, show minor differences. Health status was the only moderator to produce groups without a significant gender difference.Full article

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The Mediterranean Diet is a highly sustainable diet, and legumes are among the products that best characterize this concept. This study evaluates the environmental sustainability of the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) legumePhaseolus vulgaris L. cultivated in the Asturias region, Spain. Employing a [...] Read more.

The Mediterranean Diet is a highly sustainable diet, and legumes are among the products that best characterize this concept. This study evaluates the environmental sustainability of the Protected Geographical Indication (PGI) legumePhaseolus vulgaris L. cultivated in the Asturias region, Spain. Employing a multi-indicator approach, the study aims to define and measure certain biodiversity indicators useful for assessing the ecological quality and sustainability of the agroecosystems under consideration. Spatial analyses were conducted with GIS-based methodologies, integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) to generate a Sustainability Index (SI). The study found that a significant positive spatial autocorrelation was observed using Moran’s I test (Moran’s I = 0.74555,p < 0.01), indicating that the SI values were not equally distributed but clustered around particular regions. Furthermore, the Getis-Ord Gi* analysis determined statistically significant hotspots, mainly distributed in the western and southwestern areas, including regions near Cangas del Narcea and Tineo. This paper highlights the importance of integrating spatial analysis for environmental assessments to develop sustainability approaches. Soil quality, water use, biodiversity, and land management are some of the factors that affect sustainability outcomes in the region. The results underscore the role of PGI in promoting sustainable agricultural practices by meeting geographical and quality requirements for local production.Full article

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The rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), particularly among older adults, has driven increased research into its underlying mechanisms and risk factors. Aging, genetic susceptibility, and cardiovascular health are recognized contributors to AD, but how the age of onset affects disease progression remains [...] Read more.

The rising prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD), particularly among older adults, has driven increased research into its underlying mechanisms and risk factors. Aging, genetic susceptibility, and cardiovascular health are recognized contributors to AD, but how the age of onset affects disease progression remains underexplored. This study investigates the role of early- versus late-onset Alzheimer’s disease (EOAD and LOAD, respectively) in shaping the trajectory of cognitive decline. Leveraging data from the Religious Orders Study and Memory and Aging Project (ROSMAP), two cohorts were established: individuals with early-onset AD and those with late-onset AD. Comprehensive analyses, including differential gene expression profiling, pathway enrichment, and gene co-expression network construction, were conducted to identify distinct molecular signatures associated with each cohort. Network modularity learning algorithms were used to discern the inner structure of co-expression networks and their related functional features. Computed network descriptors provided deeper insights into the influence of age at onset on the biological progression of AD.Full article

The centrality of disruption as a graced moment of awakening social imagination to a new dawn where human flourishing becomes a possibility ought to be the focus of the church’s praxes of sacramental rituals. In fact, Christianity is itself a religion of disruption. [...] Read more.

The centrality of disruption as a graced moment of awakening social imagination to a new dawn where human flourishing becomes a possibility ought to be the focus of the church’s praxes of sacramental rituals. In fact, Christianity is itself a religion of disruption. The God–human reality that manifests itself in Jesus Christ is itself a graced disruption. God chooses to disrupt the familiar world of fallenness and thus offers God-self as a mediating gift that reorients creation to a new way of being that transcends the familiar orientation towards sin. Disruption, as an existential phenomenon, is not alien to the human condition. In fact, all aspects of human life are saturated with disruption. In fact, grace is itself God’s disruptive intervention in human history. Since creation embodies the goodness of God, creation can be said to be a sacramental symbol of disruption. In a social world where racism and other structures of marginality operate, victims of such marginalities embody in their existence the disruptive grace that can transform such a society. Black bodies are loci for encountering the disruptive grace intended to end the vice of racism. They also serve as the loci for the church to imagine a new way of being a sacrament of disruption in the world because of their existential proximity to the historical realities defining the life of Jesus Christ as a victim of the hegemony of empire. This work shows how black bodies can help foster a new imagination of the human in our contemporary world where systems of marginalization continue to shape human life in general. It attempts to address the following question: how can one conceive of black bodies in a world defined by systems of erasure that directly affect black persons and their embodied agencies? To do this effectively, this work appropriates a constructive theological approach that grounds itself in an interdisciplinary discourse with the intent to argue that to speak of the human person is to instantiate a polyphony of insights: insights that appeal to an ethical consciousness that is defined by altruism.Full article

Diabetes, a chronic medical condition, affects millions of people worldwide and requires consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels (BGLs). Traditional invasive methods for BGL monitoring can be challenging and painful for patients. This study introduces a non-invasive, deep learning (DL)-based approach to estimate [...] Read more.

Diabetes, a chronic medical condition, affects millions of people worldwide and requires consistent monitoring of blood glucose levels (BGLs). Traditional invasive methods for BGL monitoring can be challenging and painful for patients. This study introduces a non-invasive, deep learning (DL)-based approach to estimate BGL using photoplethysmography (PPG) signals. Specifically, a Deep Sparse Capsule Network (DSCNet) model is proposed to provide accurate and robust BGL monitoring. The proposed model’s workflow includes data collection, preprocessing, feature extraction, and predictions. A hardware module was designed using a PPG sensor and Raspberry Pi to collect patient data. In preprocessing, a Savitzky–Golay filter and moving average filter were applied to remove noise and preserve pulse form and high-frequency components. The DSCNet model was then applied to predict the sugar level. Two models were developed for prediction: a baseline model, DSCNet, and an enhanced model, DSCNet with self-attention. DSCNet’s performance was evaluated using Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE), Mean Absolute Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE), Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE), Mean Absolute Relative Difference (MARD), and coefficient of determination (R²), yielding values of 3.022, 0.05, 0.058, 0.062, 10.81, and 0.98, respectively.Full article

High-intensity end-of-life (EoL) care for patients with cancer often includes multiple transitions to the hospital and intensive care unit (ICU) and is associated with adverse outcomes, such as declines in patient functional abilities [...]Full article

Frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) technologies play significant roles in millimeter-wave radar and communication. Their combinations, however, are understudied in the literature. This paper introduces a novel OFDM-FMCW dual-functional radar-communications (DFRC) system that takes advantage of the merits of [...] Read more.

Frequency-modulated continuous wave (FMCW) and orthogonal frequency-division multiplexing (OFDM) technologies play significant roles in millimeter-wave radar and communication. Their combinations, however, are understudied in the literature. This paper introduces a novel OFDM-FMCW dual-functional radar-communications (DFRC) system that takes advantage of the merits of both technologies. Specifically, we introduce a baseband modulation to the traditional FMCW radar system architecture. This integration combines the advantages of both waveforms, enhancing the diversity of radar transmission waveforms without compromising high-resolution distance detection and enjoying the communication capabilities of OFDM in the meantime. We establish the system and signal models for the proposed DFRC and develop holistic methods for both sensing and communications to accommodate the integration. For radar, we develop an efficient radar sensing scheme, with the impacts of adding OFDM also being analyzed. A communication scheme is also proposed, utilizing the undersampling theory to recover the OFDM baseband signals modulated by FMCW. The theoretical model of the communication receive signal is analyzed, and a coarse estimation combined with a fine estimation method for Carrier Frequency Offset (CFO) estimation is proposed. System simulations validate the feasibility of radar detection and communication demodulation.Full article

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) based on activated persulfate (PS) are gradually being employed in the treatment of novel pollutants. In this study, an efficient and reliable CoNiFe-layered double hydroxide (LDH) was prepared by a hydrothermal method, which could effectively activate peroxomonosulfate (PMS) and [...] Read more.

Advanced oxidation processes (AOPs) based on activated persulfate (PS) are gradually being employed in the treatment of novel pollutants. In this study, an efficient and reliable CoNiFe-layered double hydroxide (LDH) was prepared by a hydrothermal method, which could effectively activate peroxomonosulfate (PMS) and cause free sulfate radical (SO₄^•−) oxidation to decompose atrazine (ATZ). The degradation rate of ATZ was greater than 99% within 60 min at pH 7 when the initial concentration of ATZ was 10 mg·L⁻¹, and the dosages of PMS and activator were 0.6 mM and 80 mg·L⁻¹. The analysis of ATZ degradation confirmed the reusability of the activator and its strong structural stability. The generation of four free radicals was analyzed and confirmed, and the influence on the degradation reaction was SO₄^•− > O₂^•− >¹O₂ > •OH. The analytical results showed that the metal ions reacted with HSO₅⁻ in PMS to cause an oxidation–reduction cycle change in the valence state of the metal ions and generated the primary factor affecting the degradation reaction—SO₄^•−. Nine degradation intermediates with reduced toxicity were detected and possible ATZ degradation pathways were deduced, thus confirming the activation mechanism of CoNiFe-LDH.Full article

The concept of nature-based solutions (NBS) is widely promoted as an approach to effectively counteract climate change and land degradation (LD) as well as simultaneously add environmental and socio-economic benefits. To have a worldwide impact from NBS, it is important to consider potential [...] Read more.

The concept of nature-based solutions (NBS) is widely promoted as an approach to effectively counteract climate change and land degradation (LD) as well as simultaneously add environmental and socio-economic benefits. To have a worldwide impact from NBS, it is important to consider potential land and soil resources at various scales, including administrative units (e.g., country, state, county, etc.). Nature-based solutions are considered by many United Nations (UN) initiatives, including the Paris Agreement and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). Currently, there is no consensus on how to define NBS and their indicators. The innovation of this study is that it defines and evaluates soil- and land-based NBS potential while suggesting indicators for land- and soil-based NBS using the contiguous United States of America (USA) as an example. This study defines potential land for NBS as the sum of the individual satellite-identified areas of barren, shrub/scrub, and herbaceous land covers, which are linked to climate and inherent soil quality (SQ), so that NBS could be implemented without changing other land uses. The potential soil for NBS, based on SQ, is a subset of land available for potential NBS. As of 2021, anthropogenic LD affected 2,092,539.0 km² in the contiguous USA, with 928,618.0 km² (15.1% of the contiguous US area) of actual potential land for NBS. The contiguous USA had a negative balance between anthropogenic LD and actual potential land for NBS to compensate for anthropogenic LD of −1,163,921.0 km². Thirty-seven states also exhibited a negative balance for LD compensation with Iowa having the worst balance of −124,497.0 km². Many states with positive anthropogenic LD and NBS balances showed that most of the potential NBS land was of low SQ and, therefore, may not be suitable for NBS. Planning for NBS should involve a feasibility analysis of “nationally determined NBS” (NDNBS) through site and context-specific NBS.Full article