bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Scientific Collaboration and Sustainable Development: A Bibliometric Analysis of the Andean Region, Panama, and Spain
Authors: Gutiérrez-Sánchez Gresky , Álvarez-Muñoz Patricio , Galindo-Villardón Purificación , Vicente-Galindo Purificación
Published: February 2025

Background: Scientific collaboration has become a cornerstone of sustainable development, particularly in regions where research capacity and funding face significant challenges. The Andean region, Panama, and Spain offer a unique perspective due to their cultural and linguistic ties, alongside varying levels of scientific production and innovation. These disparities present opportunities for collaboration and targeted interventions to foster regional growth and contribute to global priorities. According to UNESCO, Latin America invests merely 0.56% of its GDP in research and development, underscoring the pressing need for innovative strategies to enhance scientific capacity and align efforts with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Methods: This study employed HJ-Biplot and MANOVA-Biplot methodologies to analyze bibliometric data across various thematic areas. These multivariate techniques offer a comprehensive exploration of the interrelationships between scientific production, research talent, and international collaboration, revealing significant patterns and associations. The data were sourced from the Scimago Iberoamerican platform, which aggregates information from Elsevier’s Scopus database on scientific journals and countries. The platform provides data in five-year increments, capturing trends in scientific output, international collaboration, and thematic focus across the Andean region, Panama, and Spain, spanning the period from 2012 to 2022. Results: The analysis identified significant correlations between scientific productivity, research talent, and international partnerships. Clustering disciplines such as engineering, computer science, and energy highlights the strong intersections between technology and economic development. The proximity of psychology and environmental sciences emphasizes the importance of social and environmental factors in scientific research. Conclusion: This study provides a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the Andean region, Panama, and Spain, identifying critical drivers of scientific productivity and collaboration. The integration of advanced statistical methodologies reveals key associations between research talent, international partnerships, and thematic focus areas. While areas such as environmental sciences and biochemistry demonstrate alignment with innovation and sustainability goals, disciplines like engineering and mathematics require targeted investment to enhance their contributions. These findings underscore the importance of a balanced approach to research funding and policymaking to ensure equitable and impactful scientific development across regions. The results serve as a roadmap for fostering collaboration, strengthening leadership, and aligning research efforts with sustainable development objectives globally.
Islamic Discourse and Armed Resistance: Fatah’s Strategic Use of Islam in the Palestinian Struggle 1970–1982
Authors: Zelkovitz Ido
Published: February 2025

This article examines Fatah’s strategic and ideological evolution during the 1970s and early 1980s, focusing on its adoption of Islamic discourse to strengthen internal cohesion and broaden its influence. It explores how this shift shaped Fatah’s political and military strategies, contributing to its identity formation and support within the Palestinian and Arab public. The findings underscore the role of ideological flexibility in navigating geopolitical dynamics and forging alliances with Islamist factions, including Hezbollah, highlighting the nuanced interplay between pragmatism and ideology in national liberation movements. The study focuses on understanding how Fatah’s adoption of Islamic discourse influenced its political and military strategies during this period. By incorporating Islamic myths and symbols, Fatah not only strengthened internal cohesion but also expanded its influence among young Islamists eager to engage in the Palestinian struggle. This research addresses the central question: How did the adoption of Islamic discourse shape Fatah’s political and military strategies during its transition from Jordan to Lebanon, and how did it contribute to the movement’s identity formation and its success in garnering support among the Palestinian and broader Arab public?
The Idea of Europe in the Work of Popes John Paul II, Benedict XVI, and Francis
Authors: DeBattista André P.
Published: February 2025

The papacies of Pope John Paul II, Pope Benedict XVI, and Pope Francis coincided with a period of conflict and change in Europe. In the post-war period, Europe was still divided along ideological lines, with much of it having experienced invasion, occupation, and totalitarianism. Both John Paul II (1920–2005) and Benedict XVI (1927–2022) experienced the excesses of totalitarianism, profoundly affecting their outlook. Their papacies also coincided with a formative period in the post-war era: the end of the Cold War, the emergence of a new European order, and the disenchantment with that same order. Though not hailing from Europe, Pope Francis (1936–) has been an equally vital contributor to the conversation of the “idea of Europe”. This paper proposes to identify how the idea of Europe features in the work of these three popes and whether there are elements of continuity and dissonance.
Enhancing Underwater Images of a Bionic Horseshoe Crab Robot Using an Artificial Lateral Inhibition Network
Authors: Ma Yuke , Zheng Liang , Piao Yan , Wang Yu , Yu Hui
Published: February 2025

This paper proposes an underwater image enhancement technology based on an artificial lateral inhibition network (ALIN) generated in the compound eye of a bionic horseshoe crab robot (BHCR). The concept of a horizontal suppression network is applied to underwater image processing with the aim of achieving low energy consumption, high efficiency processing, and adaptability to limited computing resources. The lateral inhibition network has the effect of “enhancing the center and suppressing the surroundings”. In this paper, a pattern recognition algorithm is used to compare and analyze the images obtained by an artificial lateral inhibition network and eight main underwater enhancement algorithms (white balance, histogram equalization, multi-scale Retinex, and dark channel). Therefore, we can evaluate the application of the artificial lateral inhibition network in underwater image enhancement and the deficiency of the algorithm. The experimental results show that the ALIN plays an obvious role in enhancing the important information in underwater image processing technology. Compared with other algorithms, this algorithm can effectively improve the contrast between the highlight area and the shadow area in underwater image processing, solve the problem that the information of the characteristic points of the collected image is not prominent, and achieve the unique effect of suppressing the intensity of other pixel points without information. Finally, we conduct target recognition verification experiments to assess the ALIN’s performance in identifying targets underwater with the BHCR in static water environments. The experiments confirm that the BHCR can maneuver underwater using multiple degrees of freedom (MDOF) and successfully acquire underwater targets.
Development and Field Deployment of a Compact Dual-Range Infrared Carbon Dioxide Sensor System
Authors: Liu Xiaoteng , Xiao Xuehua , Zhang Zhening , Song Fang , Wang Yiding , Zheng Chuantao
Published: February 2025

A dual-range mid-infrared carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor is developed with temperature and humidity compensation functionalities. Using the same optical path, the sensor employs dual-channel signal processing circuits to achieve measurements across two detection ranges of 200–3000 parts-per-million (ppm) (low concentration range) and 8–25% (high concentration range), respectively. The developed sensor, with a compact size of 8.5 × 5.5 × 3.5 cm3, shows a good linear response, with fitting goodness R2 = 0.99942 for the low range and R2 = 0.9993 for the high range. Under environmental conditions of 20 °C temperature and 30% relative humidity and with an averaging time of 1 s, the limits of detection are 0.15 ppm for the low range and 32.4 ppm for the high range, respectively. A temperature and humidity compensation scheme based on multiple linear regression is proposed to mitigate the impact of environmental temperature and humidity changes. The experimental results demonstrate that the relative error after compensation is reduced from 21% to 0.87%. Indoor and outdoor CO2 measurements are performed to validate the good characteristics of the sensor system.
Applications of Optical Fiber Sensors in Geotechnical Engineering: Laboratory Studies and Field Implementation at the Acropolis of Athens
Authors: Kapogianni Elena , Sakellariou Michael
Published: February 2025

The current study investigates the feasibility and performance of Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) optical sensors in geotechnical engineering applications, aiming to demonstrate their broader applicability across different scales, from controlled laboratory experiments to real-world field implementations. More specifically, the research evaluates the sensors’ ability to monitor key parameters—strain, temperature, and acceleration—under diverse loading conditions, including static, dynamic, seismic, and centrifuge loads. Within this framework, laboratory experiments were conducted using the one-degree-of-freedom shaking table at the National Technical University of Athens to assess sensor performance during seismic loading. These tests provided insights into the behavior of geotechnical physical models under earthquake conditions and the reliability of FBG sensors in capturing dynamic responses. Additional testing was performed using the drum centrifuge at ETH Zurich, where physical models experienced gravitational accelerations up to 100 g, including impact loads. The sensors successfully captured the loading conditions, reflecting the anticipated model behavior. In the field, optical fibers were installed on the Perimeter Wall (Circuit Wall) of the Acropolis of Athens to monitor strain, temperature, and acceleration in real-time. Despite the challenges posed by the archaeological site’s constraints, the system gathered data over two years, offering insights into the structural behavior of this historic monument under environmental and loading variations. The Acropolis application serves as a key field example, illustrating the use of these sensors in a complex and historically significant site. Finally, the study details the test setups, sensor types, and data acquisition techniques, while addressing technical challenges and solutions. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of FBG sensors in geotechnical applications and highlight their potential for future projects, emphasizing their value as tools for monitoring structural integrity and advancing geotechnical engineering.
Transdisciplinary Innovations in Athlete Health: 3D-Printable Wearable Sensors for Health Monitoring and Sports Psychology
Authors: Sekeroglu Mustafa Onder , Pekgor Metin , Algin Aydolu , Toros Turhan , Serin Emre , Uzun Meliha , Cerit Gunay , Onat Tugba , Ermis Sermin Agrali
Published: February 2025

The integration of 3D printing technology into wearable sensor systems has catalyzed a paradigm shift in sports psychology and athlete health monitoring by enabling real-time, personalized data collection on physiological and psychological states. In this study, not only is the technical potential of these advancements examined but their real-world applications in sports psychology are also critically assessed. While the existing research primarily focuses on sensor fabrication and data acquisition, a significant gap remains in the evaluation of their direct impact on decision-making processes in coaching, mental resilience, and long-term psychological adaptation in athletes. A critical analysis of the current state of 3D-printed wearable sensors is conducted, highlighting both their advantages and limitations. By combining theoretical insights with practical considerations, a comprehensive framework is established for understanding how sensor-based interventions can be effectively incorporated into sports training and psychological evaluation. Future research should prioritize longitudinal studies, athlete-centered validation, and interdisciplinary collaborations to bridge the gap between technological developments and real-world applications. Additionally, the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced biomaterials has significant potential to enhance the reliability and interpretability of sensor-driven interventions. However, without rigorous scientific validation, their effectiveness remains uncertain. This study highlights the importance of a systematic approach in implementing and evaluating 3D-printed wearable sensors in sports psychology.
Topological Photonic Crystal Sensors: Fundamental Principles, Recent Advances, and Emerging Applications
Authors: Abood Israa , El. Soliman Sayed , He Wenlong , Ouyang Zhengbiao
Published: February 2025

Topological photonic sensors have emerged as a breakthrough in modern optical sensing by integrating topological protection and light confinement mechanisms such as topological states, quasi-bound states in the continuum (quasi-BICs), and Tamm plasmon polaritons (TPPs). These devices exhibit exceptional sensitivity and high-Q resonances, making them ideal for high-precision environmental monitoring, biomedical diagnostics, and industrial sensing applications. This review explores the foundational physics and diverse sensor architectures, from refractive index sensors and biosensors to gas and thermal sensors, emphasizing their working principles and performance metrics. We further examine the challenges of achieving ultrahigh-Q operation in practical devices, limitations in multiparameter sensing, and design complexity. We propose physics-driven solutions to overcome these barriers, such as integrating Weyl semimetals, graphene-based heterostructures, and non-Hermitian photonic systems. This comparative study highlights the transformative impact of topological photonic sensors in achieving ultra-sensitive detection across multiple fields.
Barriers to E-Tendering Implementation in the Construction Industry: A Comprehensive Review and Analysis of a Decade and Beyond
Authors: Inusah Yusif , Kazaz Aynur , Ulubeyli Serdar
Published: February 2025

This study addresses the scientific issue of the insufficient systematization of knowledge about the barriers to electronic tendering (E-Tendering) in the construction industry. This study is critical because it can potentially promote more effective, transparent, and environmentally friendly procurement practices, which can help with sustainable development. The key scientific goals of this study are to identify and categorize the barriers to E-Tendering adoption across six (6) geographical regions and to make recommendations to overcome the identified barriers. This research used a systematic literature review technique to identify these barriers from relevant scientific databases. This study identified and categorized the main obstacles to E-Tendering and grouped the barriers according to six geographical regions. Eight (8) significant barriers were common across six geographical locations. They are (1) Inadequate technical/ICT skilled personnel, (2) Inadequate data security, (3) Inadequate policy or uniform standard and Inadequate legal framework, (4) resistance to change, (5) Inadequate ICT and internet infrastructure, (6) High investment cost of implementation, (7) Lack of support, and (8) Technical challenges. Furthermore, this study identified 10 significant barriers to E-Tendering implementation in the construction industry. This study contributes to improving knowledge of these barriers. It contributes to creating policies that promote the long-term reform of procurement processes in the construction sector. This study also supports sustainable development goals by promoting more efficient, transparent, and environmentally friendly procurement processes.
Impact of Regional Wind Changes on Trawl Fishing Effort Under the Pressure of Overfishing in the Iskenderun Bay
Authors: Demirci Sevil
Published: February 2025

This study was conducted to examine the effects of regional wind changes on trawl fishing effort in Iskenderun Bay from 2017 to 2023 by analyzing meteorological data, daily fishing durations, and catch quantities. It was found that an increase in wind intensity reduced fishing durations by an average of 0.367 h. Northerly and easterly winds were observed to have higher speeds throughout the year, with the highest speeds reaching 14 m/s in March. Fishing activities were affected more by southerly and westerly winds due to the geographical structure of Iskenderun Bay. Seasonal variations were also detected, with fishing durations being longer at the beginning of the fishing season in autumn and decreasing in spring. Species such as red mullet, brushtooth lizardfish, and shrimp were identified as having a significant impact on fishing activities. The relationships between wind intensity, direction, and fishing durations were revealed through statistical analyses. It was shown that environmental and seasonal factors influenced trawl fishing effort in Iskenderun Bay. These results provided insights into the interactions between wind dynamics and fishing operations.
Application of Remote Sensing for the Evaluation of the Forest Ecosystem Functions and Tourism Services
Authors: Kozłowska-Adamczak Monika , Jezierska-Thöle Aleksandra , Essing-Jelonkiewicz Patrycja
Published: February 2025

Assessing the functions of forest ecosystems is important for a proper understanding of their role in the natural environment and society. Ecotourism emphasizes minimizing negative impacts on the environment and supports environmental education. Modern information and communication technologies, including forest apps, are helping in this regard. Precision forestry uses GIS technologies and remote sensing to obtain spatial data, identify the components of the natural environment, and evaluate the changes that they are subject to. A tool enabling the evaluation of synergy between ecosystem functions and tourism, in addition to traditional field research and surveys, is remote sensing. This paper aims to show the feasibility of evaluating the synergy of ecosystem and tourism services in forests using remote sensing as an alternative to traditional terrestrial measurements. This study’s temporal scope is from 2019 (i.e., the introduction of the pilot program on making forests available for bushcraft and survival activities in Poland) until the beginning of 2024. Thus, it covers the time when the State Forests program called “Stay Overnight in the Forest” related to dispersed camping in forests was in force. Additionally, online surveys were conducted using the Microsoft Forms platform among representatives of all forest districts participating in implementing the “Stay Overnight in the Forest” program from 1 May 2021. This program is a crucial element of the contemporary tourist and recreational offer of the State Forests in Poland and influences the course of the ecosystem and tourist services in the forests. From the recorded digital images, it is possible to obtain information about threats in forest ecosystems caused by natural disasters, such as windstorms and fires. The precise provision of information about degraded forest areas can contribute to the more efficient management of forest reclamation works and the restoration of damaged stands. On the other hand, the rehabilitated forest can be a destination point for educational trails in forests.
Corporate Social Responsibility-Oriented Boards and Employee Welfare: Does Culture Matter?
Authors: Vuong Ngoc Bao
Published: February 2025

This paper explores the relationship between a board’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) orientation and its company’s labor policies. Using data from 1950 non-financial firms in 21 emerging economies from 2010 to 2023, we found evidence that a more CSR-oriented board (as indicated by high percentages of women and independent directors and the existence of the audit committee’s financial expertise and CSR committee) can result in better employee treatment. In addition, our empirical results suggest that this board attribute–employee welfare relationship is influenced by the national culture. Specifically, the positive impact of the board’s CSR orientation on corporate labor practices is more prevalent in consensus-oriented and indulgent societies. These findings provide useful information that policymakers and regulators can exploit to reform corporate governance regulations to improve the working environment, especially for employees in developing countries.
The Impact of Digital Teaching Technologies (DTTs) in Saudi and Egyptian Universities on Institutional Sustainability: The Mediating Role of Change Management and the Moderating Role of Culture, Technology, and Economics
Authors: Aldogiher Abdulrahman , Halim Yasser Tawfik , El-Deeb Mohamed Samy , Maree Ahmed Mostafa , Kamel Esmat Mostafa
Published: February 2025

Purpose: This research aims to assess the extent to which universities in Saudi Arabia and Egypt have institutionalized digital teaching technologies (DTTs) to enhance institutional sustainability. It focuses on the mediating role of change management strategies and the moderating effects of cultural norms, technological infrastructure, and economic factors on this relationship, specifically examining their impact on institutional sustainability. Design/methodology/approach: This study uses a mixed-methods approach with a comparative case study strategy. Data were collected via questionnaires and interviews with university staff, with partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) being used to analyze the relationships among the variables, including DTT characteristics and other mediating/moderating factors. Findings: The findings support H1, H2, H6, and H8, confirming that the perceived characteristics of DTTs—relative advantage, complexity, observability, trialability, and compatibility—significantly impact institutional sustainability, with change management strategies mediating this relationship. Cultural norms and economic factors also have a direct influence on sustainability. However, H3 and H5, suggesting moderating effects of cultural norms and economic factors, were not supported, and H4 and H7 were excluded due to multicollinearity issues with technological infrastructure, which has already been adopted within DTT components. Originality/value: This study adds to the literature by highlighting the role of cultural and economic factors in the adoption of DTTs and introduces the novel concept of how change management strategies mediate the relationship between DTT characteristics and institutional sustainability. It provides practical insights for decision-makers in Saudi and Egyptian institutions, emphasizing culturally and economically aligned strategies for integrating DTT, fostering educational innovation, and enhancing sustainability.
The Fallacies in Chain-of-Custody in Sustainable Supply Chain Management: A Case Study from the Apparel Manufacturing Industry
Authors: Colombage Anuradha , Sedera Darshana
Published: February 2025

The apparel industry significantly contributes to climate change through its carbon emissions, excessive water usage, and waste accumulation, leading to environmental degradation and social issues such as modern slavery and poor working conditions. Amid increasing customer awareness and demands from international organizations for transparency, traceability has emerged as a critical concept, especially with advancements in technology. This study employs an interpretive case study approach, drawing early observations from a pilot project focused on traceability implementation within an apparel manufacturer and its chain-of-custody. This exploration is timely, as numerous similar initiatives are underway globally. Our research reveals that, even with the best technologies and intentions, achieving true transparency through traceability remains a challenge, often distancing stakeholders from meeting sustainability goals. Developing six (6) propositions along the way, we identify the fallacies of sustainable supply chain arising in relation to the notion of chain-of-custody. This study underscores the necessity of a collaborative approach among stakeholders to enhance traceability efforts and contribute meaningfully to sustainable practices in the apparel sector.
Review of the Generation, Regulation, and Applications of High-Order Harmonic Generation in Gases Studied Using Time-Dependent Density Functional Theory
Authors: Zhou Shushan , Wang Hao , Hu Muhong , Sun Yanbin , Zhao Xi
Published: February 2025

Since its discovery by scientists, high-order harmonic generation has emerged as a focal research topic in the field of strong-field physics. Following decades of advancement, significant progress has been achieved in both experimental and theoretical investigations of high-order harmonic generation. Among various theoretical approaches, including the time-dependent Schrödinger equation, strong-field approximation, and quantitative rescattering, etc., time-dependent density functional theory stands out for its high computational accuracy and reduced resource demands. Consequently, it plays a crucial role in research on both gaseous and solid-state high-order harmonic generation. Time-dependent density functional theory enables real-time and real-space simulation of high-order harmonic generation in intense laser fields, incorporating all nonperturbative many-body effects. It is extensively employed in research within the domain of strong-field physics. This paper primarily presents selected key findings from the application of time-dependent density functional theory in studying the generation, regulation, and application of gas high-order harmonic generation.
Bounds for Hermitian Toeplitz and Hankel Determinants for a Certain Subclass of Analytic Functions Related to the Sine Function
Authors: Thulasiram Thatamsetty , Kalaiselvan Sekar , Breaz Daniel , Suchithra Kuppuswamy , Sudharsan Thirumalai Vinjimur
Published: February 2025

This study of Hankel and Hermitian Toeplitz determinants is one of the major areas of interest in Geometric function theory and has wide applications in the areas of signal processing and Applied Mathematics. In our present investigations, we define a new subclass of normalized analytic functions H(λ)(λ≥0), defined using a subordination relation with the sine function K(z)=1+sinz. For the class H(λ), coefficient estimates, upper and lower bounds for the Hermitian Toeplitz determinants of second and third order are found. In addition, estimates are provided for the second and third-order Hankel determinants for the class H(λ).
Cross-Listing and Corporate Green Innovation: Evidence from Chinese AH Cross-Listed Firms
Authors: Li Can , Wang Fusheng
Published: February 2025

The capital market is important to promoting the comprehensive green transformation of social development and facilitating the flow of social resources toward green innovation and low-carbon technologies. Mainland Chinese enterprises cross-listed in the Hong Kong stock market (AH cross-listed enterprises) provide a good experimental object for investigating the role of capital-market integration in promoting corporate green innovation behavior. This paper investigates the impact of Chinese AH cross-listing on corporate green innovation. Using the entropy balancing matching and difference-in-differences model (EB-DID model), we empirically analyze a sample of 13,538 valid firm-year observations (including 1206 AH-share ones) from Chinese listed firms between 2005 and 2023. Our research findings show that AH cross-listing promotes Chinese firms’ green innovation. Moreover, this effect is heterogeneous among firms with different financial constraint levels, external finance dependence, internal control quality, and audit quality. Finally, AH cross-listing spurs corporate green innovation by reducing equity capital costs and optimizing information disclosure quality. Our results are robust to alternative measurements of green innovation, alternative matching methods, alternative regression models, and various controls for endogeneity issues. The study reveals a new determinant of corporate green innovation and expands the boundaries of cross-listing’s microeconomic consequences.
Tolerance to a Diet of Toxic Microcystis aeruginosa in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Balson Jordan , Boudreau Jeffrey R. , Chin-Sang Ian D. , Wang Yuxiang , Lefebvre Daniel D.
Published: February 2025

Reported incidences of cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (CHABs) are increasing across the world due to climate change and nutrient loading, dominating freshwater ecosystems and producing dangerous cyanotoxins that cause ecological damage. Microcystis aeruginosa is one of the most common species of cyanobacteria; it produces hepatotoxic and neurotoxic microcystin-LR. The ecological and human impact of algal blooms is immense, and traditional CHAB remediation methods are not always adequate in eutrophic regions such as Lake Erie in North America. As a result, a proactive, targeted approach is needed to bioremediate cyanobacteria in their pre-colonial stages. Nematodes, such as the model organism Caenorhabditis elegans, are potential candidates for bioremediating cyanobacteria such as M. aeruginosa. C. elegans have metabolic pathways that could detoxify microcystin-LR and enable tolerance to cyanobacteria in nature. We analyzed C. elegans health and fat accumulation on a diet of toxic M. aeruginosa and found that C. elegans can ingest, digest, metabolize, and survive off of this diet. The mean lifespans of the worm populations were only slightly different at 20.68 ± 0.35 (mean ± S.E.M) and 17.89 ± 0.40 when fed E. coli and toxic M. aeruginosa, respectively. In addition, a diet of toxic M. aeruginosa compared to E. coli did not have any significant impact on C. elegans pharyngeal pumping (304.2 ± 9.3 versus 330.0 ± 10.4 pumps/min), dauer response (86.3 ± 1.0 versus 83.65 ± 1.0% in dauer), mobility (209.25 ± 7.0 versus 210.15 ± 4.4 thrashes/min), or SKN-1 expression based on SKN1::GFP fluorescence measurements. Overall, a diet of toxic M. aeruginosa was able to sustain C. elegans development, and C. elegans was tolerant of it. These results suggest that C. elegans and similar nematodes could be viable candidates for cyanobacterial bioremediation.
Structural and Energetic Evidence Supports the Non-Covalent Phosphate Cyclization by the Class II Phospholipase D from Loxosceles intermedia
Authors: Gismene Carolina , Ruggiero Bachega José Fernando , Doherty Daniel Z. , Veiga Silvio Sanches , Arni Raghuvir K. , Hernández González Jorge Enrique
Published: February 2025

Phospholipase D (PLD) enzymes from Loxosceles spider venom mediate envenomation pathology by cleaving phospholipid headgroups. We revisited the crystal structure of Loxosceles intermedia PLD (PDB: 3RLH) to evaluate two alternative mechanisms—covalent and non-covalent—for headgroup cleavage. The covalent mechanism involves a nucleophilic attack on the substrate’s P atom by catalytic histidine, forming a phosphohistidine intermediate. It was originally suggested that this intermediate hydrolyzes, leading to linear phosphates. The non-covalent mechanism relies on the substrate’s hydroxyl group performing an intramolecular attack on the P atom, thereby generating a cyclic phosphate. Structural refinement of the crystal structure revealed a cyclic phosphate bound at the active site, replacing previously assigned PEG molecules. This cyclic product, stabilized by His12, His47, and Mg2+, provides structural evidence that supports phosphate cyclization. The results of computational analyses, including molecular dynamics and quantum mechanics/molecular mechanics simulations, further support the non-covalent mechanism as the energetically preferred pathway, with a significantly lower activation barrier. Our findings highlight the role of substrate orientation and of the catalytic His residues in transphosphatidylation, advancing our understanding of PLD enzymology and providing insights for the design of inhibitors against Loxosceles envenomation.
Vaccination, Public Health and Health Communication: A Network of Connections to Tackle Global Challenges
Authors: Arghittu Antonella , Deiana Giovanna , Dettori Marco , Castiglia Paolo
Published: February 2025

Vaccination constitutes one of the most significant milestones in the history of Public Health [...]
Type I Interferon Modulates the Function of Ly6C High-Expressing Naïve CD8+ T Cells to Promote an Antitumor Response
Authors: Tu Hsin-Fang , Tao Julia , Hu Ming-Hung , Fan Darrell , Tsai Ya-Chea , Wu Tzyy-Choou , Hung Chien-Fu
Published: February 2025

Background: Ly6C expression in naïve CD8+ T cells plays a crucial role in enhancing their effector activity, suggesting potential implications for cancer immunotherapy. This study investigates the functional impact of Ly6C expression on CD8+ T cells and explores albumin-conjugated IFNβ (Alb-IFNβ) as a strategy to modulate Ly6C expression and improve cancer vaccine efficacy. Methods: We analyzed the functional differences between Ly6C high-expressing (Ly6Chi) and Ly6C low-expressing (Ly6Clo) naïve CD8+ T cells in tumor suppression. To assess the role of type I interferon signaling, we administered Alb-IFNβ in C57BL/6J and IFNAR−/− mice and measured Ly6C expression in CD8+ T cells. The therapeutic potential of Alb-IFNβ was further evaluated in combination with a vaccinia virus encoding the HPV-16 E7 antigen (CRT-E7 vaccine) in a syngeneic TC-1 tumor model, assessing tumor growth, survival, and antigen-specific CD8+ T cell responses. Results: Naïve CD8+ T cells with elevated Ly6C expression exhibited enhanced tumor-suppressive capacity and required lower activation thresholds for effector function. Alb-IFNβ treatment selectively increased Ly6Chi naïve CD8+ T cells in C57BL/6J mice but not in IFNAR−/− mice, confirming type I interferon’s role in Ly6C regulation. Combining Alb-IFNβ pretreatment with the CRT-E7 vaccine significantly enhanced antigen-specific CD8+ T cell immunity, reducing tumor growth and prolonging survival in TC-1 tumor-bearing mice. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that Alb-IFNβ may enhance the antitumor activity of naïve CD8+ T cells by modulating Ly6C expression. Alb-IFNβ could potentially improve the efficacy of HPV vaccinia-based cancer vaccines, warranting further investigation as an adjuvant strategy in cancer immunotherapy.
Characterization of Glycoprotein 5-Specific Response in Pigs Vaccinated with Modified Live Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Vaccine Derived from Two Different Lineages
Authors: Huang Jing , Krishna Venkatramana D. , Paploski Igor A. D. , VanderWaal Kimberly , Schroeder Declan C. , Cheeran Maxim C.-J.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus (PRRSV) is classified into various lineages based on the phylogenetic variation of orf5, which encodes a major surface glycoprotein GP5 containing both neutralizing and non-neutralizing linear epitopes. Several positively selected sites have been identified on the GP5 ectodomain, indicating host immune pressure on these sites. This present study aimed to investigate the kinetics of antibody responses to GP5 and to map the epitope-specific response to the GP5 ectodomain from different PRRSV lineages after vaccination with commercially available modified live virus (MLV) vaccines. Methods: Post-weaning pigs were vaccinated with MLV vaccines derived from either lineage 1D (Prevacent PRRS®) or lineage 5 (Ingelvac PRRS®). Animals were challenged with a heterologous (lineage 1A) strain at 64 days post-vaccination (dpv). Blood samples were collected at various times post-vaccination and challenge. Kinetics of antibody response to different PRRSV antigens were monitored and virus neutralization against archetypal and contemporary strains belonging to lineage 5 and 1A were evaluated. In addition, antibody responses to peptides derived from the GP5 ectodomain of different viral lineages were assessed. Results: Our results showed that the GP5-specific antibody response observed between 18 and 35 dpv was delayed compared to responses to the viral nucleocapsid protein. The polyclonal antibody response in both vaccinated groups showed similar levels of binding to variant GP5 peptides from different sub-lineages. Notably, in both vaccinated groups, the antibody directed to a peptide representing the GP5 ectodomain of a lineage 1C strain (variant 1C.5) displayed a rise in titer at 64 dpv, which was further increased by the challenge with the lineage 1A strain. Less than 50% of animals developed heterologous neutralizing antibodies post-vaccination with both MLV vaccines. However, higher neutralization titers were observed in all vaccinated animal post-challenge. Conclusions: Together, these data provide insights into the antibody responses to the GP5 ectodomain in MLV-vaccinated swine herds.
Research on the Spatiotemporal Evolution Patterns of Landslide-Induced Surge Waves Based on Physical Model Experiments
Authors: Mao Pengchao , Lei Jie , Tian Lei
Published: February 2025

The impact generated by landslide-induced surge waves in large reservoirs poses significant threats to the safety of coastal residents and their property. It is essential to further elucidate the characteristics of these surge waves and enhance the capabilities of surge wave prediction and emergency warning systems. This research takes the Wangjiashan landslide in the Baihetan Hydropower Station reservoir area as a prototype, constructing a three-dimensional landslide model at a 1:150 scale. Through experiments designed under varying water levels and slope friction coefficients, the spatiotemporal evolution patterns of the landslide-induced surge waves along the riverbank were analyzed. The research results indicate that through the use of the zero-crossing method, fundamental characteristics of landslide-induced surge waves such as the maximum wave height, maximum period, significant wave height, and significant wave period could be obtained. Based on the statistical analysis of significant wave heights, the surge waves were categorized into three levels—small waves, moderate waves, and large waves—accounting for 15.79%, 78.95%, and 5.26% of the total waves, respectively. The height of surge waves decreases with an increase in the slope friction coefficient and river channel water depth. Additionally, the interaction between the landslide’s entry velocity into the water and the water level determines the effectiveness of wave propagation. This research provides crucial data support and theoretical foundations for the prediction and emergency warning of landslide-induced surge waves, offering significant implications for the prevention and mitigation of reservoir and landslide disasters.
A Comparative Assessment of Reynolds Averaged Navier–Stokes and Large-Eddy Simulation Models: Choosing the Best for Pool-Type Fishway Flow Simulations
Authors: Quaresma Ana L. , Romão Filipe , Pinheiro António N.
Published: February 2025

Fishways are an important solution for mitigating the ecological impacts of river barriers, with their hydrodynamics playing a key role in their effectiveness. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is now one of the main tools to predict and characterize flow hydrodynamics, but choosing the most suitable turbulence model is considered one of its main challenges. Although substantial research has been carried out on vertical slot fishways, where the flow is predominantly two-dimensional, studies on pool-type fishways with bottom orifices remain scarce. In this study, three Reynolds averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) turbulence models (the standard k-ε model, the renormalized group k-ε (RNG) model, and the standard k-ω model) and the large-eddy simulation (LES) model performances were compared to simulating the flow in a pool-type fishway with bottom orifices. ADV and PIV experimental data were used to assess model performance. While all the turbulence models accurately predicted the discharges and flow depths, the LES model outperformed the others in reproducing flow patterns, velocities, and turbulent kinetic energy. The RNG model also showed reasonable agreement with the experimental data. By contrast, the k-ε model delivered the poorest performance, failing to accurately predict the sizes of the recirculation zones and the locations of the recirculation axis and presenting the weakest agreement with the experimental observations. The value of the LES model in studying and characterizing fishway hydrodynamics, particularly concerning turbulence parameters, is highlighted.
Performance of Emitters in Drip Irrigation Systems Using Computational Fluid Dynamic Analysis
Authors: De Marchis Mauro , Bruno Federica , Saccone Domenico , Napoli Enrico
Published: February 2025

Flat drippers are widely used in agricultural irrigation systems to ensure precise water distribution. This study investigates the optimization of flat drippers through Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFDs) simulations, focusing on the channel geometry. These emitters have a particular configuration of the labyrinth channel appropriately shaped to ensure high turbulence and dissipation of the hydraulic load. CFDs techniques are particularly suitable to investigate the labyrinth design and optimization. Here, by analyzing seven different dripper models with varying dissipation channel sizes, the relationship between flow rate (liters per hour) and pipe pressure (kPa) was studied. Simulations were performed for six inlet pressures in the range between 50 and 175 kPa, with steps of 25 kPa, allowing for the derivation of the pressure–flow curve and the optimization of the emitter exponent. The value of the exponent is closely linked to the conformation of the channel and is standardized by the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 9261:2004. Additionally, the influence of the labyrinth channel’s cross-sectional area on flow rate was examined, providing insights into design improvements for enhanced hydraulic performance. The proposed optimization could lead to significant water savings and enhanced agricultural productivity by improving the efficiency of irrigation systems.
Human–Wildlife Conflicts, Household Livelihood Security, and Conservation Support Among Residents Adjacent to the Maasai Mara National Reserve in Kenya
Authors: Chepkwony Mercy Chepkemoi , Lyakurwa Gasto Jerome , Sabuhoro Edwin
Published: February 2025

In sub-Saharan Africa, protected areas are located in close proximity to communities, leading to frequent negative encounters between humans and wildlife. This is coupled with increased pressure from communities seeking park resources to support their livelihoods. To address this, land use plans have been designed around protected areas. For example, in Kenya, wildlife conservancies have been created out of private and community lands. The aim of these conservancies is to contribute to improved livelihoods, reduce human–wildlife conflicts, and increase support for conservation. However, limited research exists on how the conservancies have achieved their aims among local communities. This study focuses on the Maasai Mara region in Kenya and examines how livelihoods and human–wildlife conflicts influence support for conservation among conservancy members. Data were gathered from 411 households adjacent to the reserve through a survey conducted in June and July 2024. The findings indicate a high incidence of human–wildlife conflict and improved security in health and education only. Despite this, there is high satisfaction with the conservancy model and strong support for conservation. Although these findings highlight the significance of conservancies in mitigating human–wildlife conflict, enhancing livelihoods, and garnering conservation support, more attention is needed for food and financial security.
Issue of the quality of imported goods during parallel imports
Authors:   FSBEI HE Plekhanov Russian University of Economics, Moscow, Shustrov M.A.
Published: February 2025

An analysis of the impact of the legalization of parallel imports on the quality of imported products
is carried out, and the key risks when importing goods without the consent of the copyright holder
are described. Based on the case of the Russian Federation, the use of parallel imports in relation to
individual goods under conditions of external sanctions pressure is considered.
Laboratory diagnostics of a new generation of synthetic spice cannabinoids during forensic toxicological examination
Authors:   ALFRAGANUS University, Pulatova L.T. , Zhalilov F.S. ,   ALFRAGANUS University
Published: February 2025

The emergence of new types of designer drugs, spice, is one of the most important problems in the fight against illicit trafficking in narcotic drugs, psychotropic substances, and their precursors, and the non-medical use of new psychoactive substances, the legal status of which has not yet been determined. A particular danger is the spread of new synthetic psychoactive substances with high specificity of action and effectiveness even in small quantities, i.e. «analog drugs». In
this regard, the paper presents methods for the identification of narcotic substances
and describes the chromatographic and spectral characteristics of synthetic spice cannabinoids. The interrelationships between biochemical parameters in positive studies on synthetic spice cannabinoids have been studied.
Improving business processes in a company in the context of implementing a digital economy
Authors:   Julity.team Russia, Perm, Sabirova Y.V.
Published: February 2025

The article focuses on the importance of optimizing business processes in the
context of digitalization and economic transformation. During the work, an analysis
of current theoretical approaches and practical results related to the implementation
of business process management systems was carried out. The main areas of improving
processes using information technologies are highlighted, including international
examples and approaches to digitalization. Possible problems that companies may face
when implementing digital technologies are also discussed, and solutions to overcome
them are proposed.
Robotic process automation (rpa) in retail: obvious and non-obvious benefits
Authors:   Integrator of Effective IT Solutions First Bit, Russia, Moscow., Sakhno G.O.
Published: February 2025

The article discusses the implementation of robotic process automation (RPA)
technology in retail, its impact on work effi ciency and customer service quality. Both obvious
and non-obvious advantages of using RPA are described, including automation of routine
tasks, optimization of logistics and improvement of customer service. The author emphasizes
that the implementation of RPA allows you to focus human resources on more important
tasks, which in turn can lead to increased sales and improved reputation of the company.