bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Comparative Study of Deep Learning Frameworks Applied to Coffee Plant Detection from Close-Range UAS-RGB Imagery in Costa Rica
Authors: Arriola-Valverde Sergio , Rimolo-Donadio Renato , Villagra-Mendoza Karolina , Chacón-Rodriguez Alfonso , García-Ramirez Ronny , Somarriba-Chavez Eduardo
Published: December 2024

Introducing artificial intelligence techniques in agriculture offers new opportunities for improving crop management, such as in coffee plantations, which constitute a complex agroforestry environment. This paper presents a comparative study of three deep learning frameworks: Deep Forest, RT-DETR, and Yolov9, customized for coffee plant detection and trained from images with a high spatial resolution (cm/pix). Each frame had dimensions of 640 × 640 pixels acquired from passive RGB sensors onboard a UAS (Unmanned Aerial Systems) system. The image set was structured and consolidated from UAS-RGB imagery acquisition in six locations along the Central Valley, Costa Rica, through automated photogrammetric missions. It was evidenced that the RT-DETR and Yolov9 frameworks allowed adequate generalization and detection with mAP50 values higher than 90% and mAP5095 higher than 54%, in scenarios of application with data augmentation techniques. Deep Forest also achieved good metrics, but noticeably lower when compared to the other frameworks. RT-DETR and Yolov9 were able to generalize and detect coffee plants in unseen scenarios that include complex forest structures within tropical agroforestry Systems (AFS).
Res-LK-SLR: A Residual Network Based on Large Kernels and Shapelet-Level Representations for Spatial Infrared Spot Target Discrimination
Authors: Liu Huiying , Wang Jiarong , Zhong Weijun , Nie Haitao , Deng Xiaotong , Sun Jiaqi , Zhu Ming , Wei Ming
Published: December 2024

Spatial infrared spot target (SIST) discrimination based on infrared radiation sequences (IRSs) can be considered a univariate trending time series classification task. However, due to the complexity of actual scenarios and the limited opportunities for acquiring IRSs, resulting in noise interference, extremely small-scale datasets with imbalanced distribution of classes and widely varying sequence lengths range from a few hundred to several thousand time steps. Current research is primarily based on idealized simulation datasets, resulting in a performance gap when applied to actual applications. To address these issues, firstly, we construct a simulation dataset tailored to the challenges of actual scenarios. Secondly, we design a practical data preprocessing method to achieve uniform sequence length, coarse alignment of shapelets and filtering while preserving key points. Thirdly, we propose a residual network Res-LK-SLR for IRS classification based on large kernels (LKs, providing long-term dependence) and shapelet-level representations (SLRs, where the hidden layer features are aligned with the learned high-level representations to obtain the optimal segmentation and generate shapelet-level representations). Additionally, we conduct extensive evaluations and validations on both the simulation dataset and 18 UCR time series classification datasets. The results demonstrate the effectiveness and generalization ability of our proposed Res-LK-SLR.
Improving Tornado Intensity Prediction by Assimilating Radar-Retrieved Vortex Winds After Vortex Relocation
Authors: Xu Qin , Nai Kang , Wei Li , Snook Nathan , Wang Yunheng , Xue Ming
Published: December 2024

A time–space shift method was recently developed for relocating the best ensemble member predicted tornado vortex to the radar-observed location, aiming to improve the model’s initial condition and subsequent prediction of tornadoes. To further improve tornado prediction, a variational method for analyzing vortex flows, referred to as VF-Var, is used in this paper to retrieve high-resolution vortex winds from the earliest radar volume scan of tornado and the retrieved vortex winds are then assimilated as “observations” after the vortex relocation. The previous three-step method is also adaptively modified to estimate the tornado vortex center location, denoted by xc ≡ (xc, yc) as a continuous function of height z and time t, from the earliest two consecutive radar volume scans of the tornado, so the estimated xc(z, t) can have the VF-Var required accuracy for retrieving high-resolution vortex winds and the retrieved vortex winds can be assimilated as “observations” with a minimized observation latency. This approach, combined with vortex relocation, is applied to the 20 May 2013 Oklahoma Newcastle–Moore tornado, and is shown to be very effective in further improving the tornado intensity prediction and the continuity of predicted tornado track. Although assimilating the retrieved high-resolution vortex winds after the vortex relocation does not greatly affect the overall trajectory of the predicted tornado track, it proves highly beneficial.
A Review of Research on Cloud Detection Methods for Hyperspectral Infrared Radiances
Authors: Ni Zhuoya , Wu Mengdie , Lu Qifeng , Huo Hongyuan , Wu Chunqiang , Liu Ruixia , Wang Fu , Xu Xiaoying
Published: December 2024

Cloud contamination is a critical source of errors in the data assimilation of hyperspectral infrared radiance (IR). Therefore, it is necessary to filter out cloudy observations. In this study, we review and summarize the principles and research progress of cloud detection methods for the hyperspectral IR in the past two decades. Based on the impact of IR data utilization on cloud detection results, cloud detection methods are categorized into five types, namely clear field-of-view (FOV) detection, clear channel detection, three-dimensional cloud detection, cloud-clearing and deep learning methods. Clear FOV methods and clear channel methods aim to identify the purely clear FOVs and spectral channels that are not affected by clouds, respectively. Cloud-clearing methods are used to reconstruct clear-column radiance for cloudy observations. Deep learning cloud detection methods can quickly learn the mapping relationship between infrared hyperspectral radiation characteristics and FOV cloud distribution from a large amount of infrared radiative information with known FOV cloud labels. In this paper, we discuss and provide an outlook on the key issues in current hyperspectral IR cloud detection. Specifically, we analyze and summarize the factors affecting cloud detection, such as surface background information, vertical cloud distribution, hyperspectral IR channel selection, improvements in cloud detection algorithms and model applicability. The results indicate the use of deep learning methods offer advantages in detection accuracy and algorithm efficiency of hyperspectral IR cloud detection.
Acoustic Wave Sensor Detection of an Ovarian Cancer Biomarker with Antifouling Surface Chemistry
Authors: Davoudian Katharina , Spagnolo Sandro , Chan Edmund , Hianik Tibor , Thompson Michael
Published: December 2024

Ovarian cancer (OC) must be detected in its early stages when the mortality rate is the lowest to provide patients with the best chance of survival. Lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) is a critical OC biomarker since its levels are elevated across all stages and increase with disease progression. This paper presents an LPA assay based on a thickness shear mode acoustic sensor with dissipation monitoring that involves a new thiol molecule 3-(2-mercaptoethanoxy)propanoic acid (HS-MEG-COOH). HS-MEG-COOH is an antifouling linker that provides (a) antifouling properties for gold substrates and (b) linking ability via its terminal carboxylic acid functional group. The antifouling ability of HS-MEG-COOH was tested in whole human serum. The new molecule was applied to the LPA assay in conjunction with a spacer molecule, 2-(2-mercaptoethoxy)ethan-1-ol (HS-MEG-OH), in a 1:1 v/v ratio. HS-MEG-COOH was covalently linked to gelsolin–actin, a protein complex probe that dissociates due to LPA-binding. LPA was detected in phosphate-buffered saline and undiluted human serum and achieved a low limit of detection (1.0 and 0.7 μM, respectively) which was below the concentration of LPA in healthy individuals. The antifouling properties of HS-MEG-COOH and the detection of LPA demonstrate the ability of the sensor to successfully identify the early-stage OC biomarker in undiluted human serum.
Mechanical Performance and Tribological Behavior of WC-ZrO2 Composites with Different Content of Graphene Oxide Fabricated by Spark Plasma Sintering
Authors: Smirnov Anton , Pristinskiy Yuri , Pinargote Nestor Washington Solis , Meleshkin Yaroslav , Podrabinnik Pavel , Volosova Marina , Grigoriev Sergey
Published: December 2024

This paper presents research on the effects of the addition of various contents of graphene oxide and sintering temperature on the mechanical, tribological, and electrical characteristics of WC-ZrO2 composites. Wet processing and spark plasma sintering provided dense samples with simultaneous reduction of graphene oxide (rGO) during sintering. The obtained results showed that the best mechanical properties were observed at a sintering temperature of 1700 °C in samples with 0.5 vol.% rGO content; namely, indentation fracture toughness (5.8 ± 0.4 MPa·m1/2) and flexural strength (872 ± 43 MPa) increased by 9% and 24.3% compared with the sample without rGO. In addition to improved mechanical performance, rGO-reinforced composites exhibited lower wear rates and friction coefficients than non-rGO composites, due to the formation of a graphitic lubricating tribolayer on worn surfaces and counterbodies in a friction pair, which provided sufficient lubrication to reduce the coefficient of friction and wear rate. The resulting composites also showed low electrical resistivity, suggesting the possibility of using electrical discharge machining to manufacture ceramic products of complex shapes from them.
Solutions for Retrofitting Catenary-Powered Transportation Systems Toward Greater Electrification in Smart Cities
Authors: Paternost Rudolf Francesco , Mandrioli Riccardo , Cirimele Vincenzo , Ricco Mattia , Grandi Gabriele
Published: December 2024

Catenary-powered networks are expected to play a pivotal role in urban energy transition, due to the larger deployment of electric public transport, in-motion-charging (IMC) vehicles, and catenary-backed electric vehicle chargers. However, there are technical challenges that must be overcome to ensure the successful utilization of existing networks without compromising vehicle performance or compliance with network standards. This paper aims to validate the use of battery energy storage systems (BESS) built from second-life batteries as a means of retrofitting catenary-powered traction networks. The objective is to increase the network robustness without creating a negative impact on its overall operational efficiency. Consequently, more electrification projects can be implemented using the same network infrastructure without substantial modifications. Furthermore, a power management scheme is presented which allows the voltage and current range allowed in the catenary network and the BESS maximum charging rate to be controlled from user-defined values. The proposed control scheme is adept at customizing the BESS size for the specific application under consideration. Validation is performed on a case study of the trolleybus system in Bologna, Italy.
Scoping Review of Digitally Delivered Physical Activity and Exercise Programs for Older Adults
Authors: Teo Junsheng Leslie , Bird Stephen Richard , Butler-Henderson Kerryn , Zheng Zhen
Published: December 2024

Physical inactivity among older adults is a major public health concern linked to various chronic conditions. Digitally delivered physical activity (PA) programs offer a promising solution to overcome traditional barriers. This scoping review aimed to explore the feasibility, acceptability, and engagement factors of these programs for older adults. A comprehensive search was conducted on PubMed, Embase (OVID), and Scopus on 22 May 2024, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Inclusion criteria targeted older adults (≥60 years) engaged in healthy digital PA interventions. Data analysis was guided by the FAME Framework, TSQ, and the COM-B model. A total of 16 studies met the inclusion criteria, involving 901 older adults. Most studies reported moderate to high adherence rates with programs being well-received. However, several implementation challenges were found, such as inadequate digital literacy, concerns regarding program quality, participant safety, and lack of perceived relevance. Despite these implementation challenges, they may be overcome using the TAM and UTAUT frameworks for technology acceptance and usage to address digital literacy, ensuring high-quality interactions and participant safety, and incorporating social support. Future interventions should leverage similar theoretical frameworks to enhance design and implementation.
Evaluation of the Hydrological Response of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) in Socio-Economically Vulnerable Tropical Urban Settlements: A Case Study in La Guapil, Costa Rica, Under Climate Change Scenarios
Authors: Serrano-Núñez Valeria , Villagra-Mendoza Karolina , Gamboa-Alpízar Natalia , Miranda-Quirós Miriam , Watson-Hernández Fernando
Published: December 2024

Urbanization increases the number of impervious surfaces in watersheds, reducing infiltration and evapotranspiration, which increases runoff volumes and the risks of flooding and the pollution of water resources. Nature-based solutions (NBS) mitigate these effects by managing water volume and quality, restoring the hydrological cycle, and creating sustainable livelihoods that can promote socioeconomic equity by providing green space. In light of the aforementioned information, this study analyzes the hydrological response of NBS in La Guapil, a densely populated and socioeconomically vulnerable area of Costa Rica with approximately 80% impervious surfaces, focusing on their effectiveness in stormwater management and improving hydrological conditions. Field data from the study area’s storm drainage system, as well as hydrological analyses, were collected and processed to evaluate RCP8.5 climate change scenarios using the Clausius–Clapeyron (CC) relationship. Three scenarios were proposed: (1) the “status quo”, reflecting current conditions, (2) green roofs and green improvements, and (3) detention ponds and green improvements, evaluated using the SWMM, with the latter scenario also using the Iber model. Simulations showed that Scenario 2 achieved the greatest reduction in peak flow (53.74%) and runoff volume (57.60%) compared to Scenario 3 (peak: 28.37%; volume: 56.42%). Both scenarios demonstrate resilience to climate change projections. The results of this study provide a foundation for further research into NBS in Costa Rica and other comparable regions.
Unlocking the Potential: How Flying Taxis Will Shape the Future of Transportation
Authors: Naveen Palanichamy , Antony Mary Posonia , Ramasamy Balaji Venkatesalu , Sah Dipak Kumar , Maheswar Rajagopal
Published: December 2024

The advent of flying taxis, also known as vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft, presents a revolutionary approach to urban transportation by offering faster, more flexible, and less congested travel options. This research aims to explore the potential impact of flying taxis on urban transportation systems, focusing on their implementation, regulation, and benefits across various industries. This study investigates the role of government in monitoring and regulating flying taxis to ensure safety and compliance with regulations, addressing key considerations such as licensing, air traffic control, safety standards, insurance requirements, and privacy concerns. Through a comprehensive review of the existing literature and case studies, this paper presents the advantages of flying taxis, including time savings, accessibility to remote areas, reduced traffic congestion, and enhanced travel experiences. Additionally, the economic benefits of manufacturing flying taxis, such as job creation and technological advancements, are discussed. The findings suggest that flying taxis have significant potential to transform urban transportation, but their adoption requires collaboration among stakeholders, robust regulatory frameworks, and substantial infrastructure investments. The conclusions highlight the practical application value of flying taxis in promoting sustainable urban mobility and driving innovation in transportation.
Sustainable Management of Landslides in Ecuador: Leveraging Geophysical Surveys for Effective Risk Reduction
Authors: Alonso-Pandavenes Olegario , Torrijo Echarri Francisco Javier , Garzón-Roca Julio
Published: December 2024

The present work explores the use of geophysical surveys as valuable tools for the study and sustainable management of landslides, with a particular focus on Ecuador. As an Andean country, Ecuador’s geomorphology and geology are dominated by volcano-sedimentary materials and processes, which confers a high susceptibility to landslides. In the last few years, a number of landslide events (such as those at La Josefina, Alausí, and Chunchi) have given rise to disasters with significant material damage and loss of life. Climatic events, affected by climate change, earthquakes, and human activity, are the main landslide triggers. Geophysical surveys, like seismic refraction, electrical resistivity tomography (ERT), and ground-penetrating radar (GPR), are easy and low-cost techniques that provide valuable and critical subsurface data. They can help define the failure surface, delimit the mobilized materials, describe the internal structure, and identify the hydrological and geotechnical parameters that complement any direct survey (like boreholes and laboratory tests). As a result, they can be used in assessing landslide susceptibility and integrated into early warning systems, mapping, and zoning. Some case examples of large landslide events in Ecuador (historical and recent) are analyzed, showing how geophysical surveys can be a valuable tool to monitor landslides, mitigate their effects, and/or develop solutions. Combined or isolated geophysical techniques foster sustainable management, improve hazard characterization, help protect the most vulnerable regions, promote community awareness for greater safety and resilience against landslides, and support governmental actions and policies.
From the City to the Suburb: City Dynamics in the Time of a Polycrisis
Authors: Asadieh Behnam , Neisch Paulina Maria
Published: December 2024

External events and crises significantly influence urban development. This study primarily aimed to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on city development dynamics through structural change and spatiotemporal analysis, focusing on the Hong Kong SAR as a case study. The analysis revealed disruptions across the office, residential, and retail property sectors during late 2019 and early 2020. The findings emphasize the “Polycrisis” concept, where overlapping social, economic, and health crises amplify impacts. The office sector demonstrated greater vulnerability, particularly in higher grade offices in and near central business districts. In contrast, the residential sector showed greater resilience overall, with smaller, centrally located units being more vulnerable, while larger, peripheral units exhibited a stronger resilience. The retail market responded distinctively, with peripheral areas experiencing a greater impact than the city core, reflecting pandemic-related restrictions. In general, the findings show that the recovery from the crises is slow and might affect future land use and urban planning norms. Additionally, population trends highlighted a shift toward suburban living, with recent rising densities in peripheral districts and population declines in central areas. This study’s insights contribute to policymaking, urban planning, and discussions on understanding the evolving city dynamics.
The Evapotranspiration Characteristics and Evaporative Cooling Effects of Different Vegetation Types on an Intensive Green Roof: Dynamic Performance Under Different Weather Conditions
Authors: Xu Haishun , Chen Huiying , Qian Chen , Li Jining
Published: December 2024

Previous research has demonstrated that the multiple environmental benefits of green roofs are primarily associated with their evaporative cooling effect. However, current studies on green roof evapotranspiration (ET) mainly focus on extensive green roofs, and the evaporative cooling effect of intensive green roofs is still unclear. Using the intensive green roof of AQUA City in Nanjing as a case study, this research employs the three-temperature (3T) model combined with high-resolution thermal infrared imagery obtained via an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) to estimate the ET of different vegetation types. The study aims to explore the spatiotemporal variations in surface temperature, evapotranspiration (ET) rate, and evaporative cooling rate for various vegetation types under typical seasonal (summer and winter) and weather conditions (sunny, cloudy, and rainy before and after rainy days). The results showed that: (1) the ET rates and evaporative cooling effects of different types of vegetation differed significantly, with shrubs having the fastest ET rates, followed by arbors, and grasslands having relatively low ET rates. (2) Solar radiation and air temperature are the most crucial meteorological parameters for inducing ET on green roofs. In this study, the evaporative cooling performance showed the patterns of summer > winter and sunny > cloudy > rainy days. (3) In the spatial distribution of tree and irrigation plant groups, some low-temperature diffusion phenomena to the adjacent small microenvironments were evident, while the diffusion effect in winter is smaller and mainly shows the opposite warming characteristics. This study offers a valuable reference for quantifying the ET and evaporative cooling effects of various vegetation types on intensive green roofs, facilitating the optimization of vegetation configuration and supporting sustainable urban development.
Research on Interprovincial Embodied Carbon Transfer Network in China and Its Endogenous Dynamic Evolutionary Mechanism
Authors: Luo Ming , Zheng Ruihao , Fan Ruguo , Zhang Yingqing , Yang Min
Published: December 2024

This paper uses the multi-regional input–output model to measure China’s interprovincial embodied carbon transfer and constructs an interprovincial network; then, the temporal exponential random graph model is applied to analyze the spatial correlation characteristics and endogenous evolutionary mechanism of the network. The results show that interprovincial embodied carbon transfer relationships are increasingly close in China, but the weak symmetric accessibility between the eastern and central regions leads to less reciprocity in the embodied carbon network, and carbon emission inequality still exists. Based on the identification of networks, it is shown that the global network structures are stable, with obvious small-world characteristics and a core–periphery structure. And a structure-dependent effect and time-dependent effect also exist in the formation and evolution of the interprovincial embodied carbon transfer network in China. The popularity, multi-connectivity, and path-dependent effects among the provinces are significant, but the imperfection of interprovincial communication and the cooperation mechanism leads to the failure to form stable structures of ternary closed loops. Interprovincial embodied carbon transfer relationships tend to occur between provinces, with large differences in energy consumption structures, while geographical distance can hinder the formation of embodied carbon transfer relationships. Consequently, considering the spatial network correlation and its endogenous dynamic evolutionary mechanism, it is important to implement policies to guide coordinated carbon reduction among the provinces and to improve the fairness in embodied carbon transferring, in order to promote the fine governance of all links in the transferring process of embodied carbon.
What Are the Sustainable Features of Soybean Leaves as a By-Product?
Authors: Chu Han-Na , Jung Eun-Suk , Seo Mi-Kyung , Lee Jae-Sin , Kim Haeng-Ran
Published: December 2024

Soybean leaves, by-products of soybeans, are functional food supplements for overall health, displaying nutritional superiority and various functionalities; they are widely used for both consumption and as functional materials. This study analyzed the physiological activity (efficacy) of 47 soybean leaves harvested in 2019 and 2020. Differences based on cultivation year (2 years), seed coat color (three varieties), and the interaction of soybean cultivation year × seed coat color were determined using analysis of variance (ANOVA). DPPH radical scavenging activity varied with seed coat color, while uncoupling protein-1 (UCP-1) and nitric oxide (NO) exhibited significant differences by cultivation year. Items that displayed greater increases in 2020 than in 2019 among the six measures of physiological activity (efficacy) were estrogen receptor alpha, UCP-1, and NO production inhibitory activity, whereas ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities as well as estrogen activity declined. ANOVA confirmed significant differences in DPPH radical scavenging activity according to seed coat color as well as in UCP-1 and NO production inhibitory activity by cultivation year. Annual comparisons in the correlations of efficacy with ABTS and DPPH radical scavenging activities exhibited strong correlations at 2 years, despite climatic variation, thus potentially being classifiable as analysis items with high cultivation stability. However, other efficacies displayed vast differences in correlation between years. Climate change may affect the added value of agricultural products by reducing the production of by-product soybean leaves and changing their bioactive properties, so various countermeasures are needed. This annual variation may largely be attributed to climatic variations owing to open field cultivation. Geomjeong Kong-5 (black color), B16 Neoljeokseoritae (black color), Sorok Kong (yellow color), and Gangwonyanggu-1994-3709 (green–black color) were selected as superior soybean leaf sources with minimal annual variation and high stability against cultivation environments. Further research is needed to ensure that the leaves of the soybean can be used as a sustainable resource for the agricultural industry. The data from this study can be used as a basis for breeding and cultivating soybean leaves while maintaining high efficacy, regardless of the instability of the growing environment due to climatic variations.
Ecological Crisis from Children’s Perspective: Lessons Learned and Their Importance in Shaking Up Social Awareness
Authors: Jiménez-Navarro Inmaculada C. , Prandi Catia , Pérez de Lucía José Giner , Cecilia José M. , Senent-Aparicio Javier
Published: December 2024

The Mar Menor (Murcia, Spain) has faced a eutrophication crisis in recent decades, significantly affecting local residents, including children. Considering the importance of involving children in scientific activities and the potential societal benefits of working with them, we conducted two environmental citizen science activities with students from the Los Nietos school. The study aimed to evaluate their knowledge about the Mar Menor crisis, understand their opinions and experiences, and assess the broader social impact of these activities. The children first created drawings related to the Mar Menor during a visit to Los Nietos beach, followed by a survey completed weeks later. Analysis of the drawings and survey responses revealed that while children may not fully grasp the causes of the ecological catastrophe, they are aware of its existence and maintain a hopeful perspective on the lagoon’s future. Additionally, a social network analysis of texts referencing children highlighted the societal reach of their actions and voices regarding the Mar Menor crisis. Our findings demonstrate that citizen science activities not only engage and educate children but also position them as influential communicators within their communities. This underscores the potential of such initiatives to amplify environmental awareness and drive social change by empowering younger generations as advocates for ecological sustainability.
DNA Barcoding of Tabanids (Diptera: Tabanidae) from Veracruz, Mexico, with Notes on Morphology and Taxonomy
Authors: Alavez-Chávez Julia J. , Oca-Aguilar Ana C. Montes de , Sánchez-Montes Sokani , Ibáñez-Bernal Sergio , Huerta-Jiménez Herón , Romero-Salas Dora , Cruz-Romero Anabel , Aguilar-Domínguez Mariel
Published: December 2024

(1) Background: Tabanids are one of the most neglected and difficult-to-identify groups within the order Diptera despite their medical–veterinary importance. Since 2010, DNA barcoding has proved to be a promising method for the identification of horseflies in the Old World, but until now it had explored little with regards to Neotropical species. In Mexico, faunal studies continue to be focused on certain regions of the country, which has limited the generation of taxonomic keys. Here, we employed the DNA barcoding approach to contribute to the knowledge of horsefly species in one of the least explored biogeographic provinces in Mexico, the state of Veracruz. (2) Methods: Tabanids were collected at two localities using Malaise traps during two seasons. With a sampling effort of 300 h per trap per site, a total of 22 specimens were collected and identified using taxonomic keys and partial amplification and sequencing of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI). (3) Results: Five species of the Tabanus genus were identified through taxonomic keys, and three of these species were confirmed through molecular analyses: T. oculus, T. commixtus, and T. pungens. (4) Conclusions: This is the first contribution of the sequence data of the Tabanidae family for Mexico and demonstrates that DNA barcoding is a vital tool for the recognition of Neotropical species.
Are Tourist Interactions Good or Bad? Tourist–Tourist Interactions at 5-Star Hotels in Istanbul
Authors: Zentveld Elisa , Düşmezkalender Ebru , Özhasar Yunus , Oğuz Yasin Emre
Published: December 2024

The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of ambience and aesthetics on tourist–tourist interaction and the effects of tourist–tourist interaction on a sense of belonging, intention to recommend, and satisfaction in accommodation establishments. The study was carried out based on the Stimulus–Organism–Response (SOR) model. The study was conducted in 5-star hotels in Istanbul/Turkey. Data were collected from 392 tourists staying in these hotels through a survey. Structural equation modelling was used to analyse the data obtained. The results of the study reveal that ambience and aesthetics have a significant effect on tourist–tourist interaction in accommodation establishments. It was also found that tourist–tourist interactions have a significant effect on the sense of belonging, intention to recommend, and satisfaction. This study provides contributions to the important field of tourist–tourist interaction, and accordingly fills a gap in the literature.
X-Ray Views of Galactic Accreting Pulsars in High-Mass X-Ray Binaries
Authors: Weng Shan-Shan , Ji Long
Published: December 2024

Accreting X-ray pulsars, located in X-ray binaries, are neutron stars with magnetic fields as strong as B∼1012–13 G. This review offers a concise overview of the accretion and radiation processes of X-ray pulsars and summarizes their rich observational features, particularly focusing on complex and variable temporal phenomena, spectral properties, and evolution, the new window for X-ray polarimetry and multi-wavelength advances. We also briefly discuss other related systems, i.e., gamma-ray binaries and pulsating ultraluminous X-ray sources.
Current Status of Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Vaccines
Authors: Wang Honglei , Feng Wenhai
Published: December 2024

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS), characterized by reproductive failures in breeding pigs and respiratory diseases in growing pigs, is a widespread and challenging disease. The agent, PRRSV, is a single-strand RNA virus that is undergoing continuous mutation and evolution, resulting in the global spread of multiple strains with different genetic characteristics and variable antigens. There are currently no effective measures to eradicate PRRS, and vaccination is crucial for controlling the disease. At present, various types of vaccine are available or being studied, including inactivated vaccines, modified live virus (MLV) vaccines, vector vaccines, subunit vaccines, DNA vaccines, RNA vaccines, etc. MLV vaccines have been widely used to control PRRSV infection for more than 30 years since they were first introduced in North America in 1994, and have shown a certain efficacy. However, there are safety and efficacy issues such as virulence reversion, recombination with field strains, and a lack of protection against heterologous strains, while other types of vaccine have their own advantages and disadvantages, making the eradication of PRRS a challenge. This article reviews the latest progress of these vaccines in the prevention and control of PRRS and provides scientific inspiration for developing new strategies for the next generation of PRRS vaccines.
Correction: Nakkala et al. Differential Regulation of DC Function, Adaptive Immunity, and MyD88 Dependence by Two Squalene Emulsion-Based Vaccine Adjuvants. Vaccines 2024, 12, 531
Authors: Nakkala Jayachandra Reddy , Li Yibo , Akter Labone , Kang Xinliang , Chen Xinyuan
Published: December 2024

The authors would like to make the corrections described below to the published paper [...]
Mycoplasma synoviae Induces Apoptosis in Chicken Oviduct Cells
Authors: Zhang Xudong , Wu Xiaochun , Zhang Yuting , Chen Yulu , Li Tingwen , Shi Yuan , Bao Shijun
Published: December 2024

Mycoplasma synoviae (MS) is an important pathogen that can cause respiratory diseases in poultry and birds, leading to serious economic losses in the world and impacting the development of the poultry industry. However, the pathogenic mechanisms of MS infection are still unclear, resulting in a lack of effective diagnosis and treatment strategies. This study aimed to uncover the infection effect caused by MS in chicken oviduct cells. MS-infected chicken oviduct cells with different infection times and doses were collected, and DAPI staining was performed to monitor the morphological changes of cell nuclei. Cell viability was detect by CCK-8 assay. The expression of marker genes of cell apoptosis was determined by RT-qPCR and Western blotting assay, respectively. The results showed that MS infection significantly inhibited the growth of chicken oviduct cells, caused the nuclear shrinkage and rupture, activated the expression of apoptosis marker genes Caspase 3 and Beclin-1, and increased the apoptosis rate. These results indicated that MS infection inhibits cell proliferation and promotes apoptosis in chicken oviduct cells, which provided a basis for further revealing the MS pathogenic mechanism and provided a foundation for the future development of anti-infection strategies.
Spatial and Temporal Distribution Patterns of Fish in Large Deep-Water Lakes and Their Association with Environmental Factors Assessed Through Hydroacoustic Methods: A Case Study of Qiandao Lake, China
Authors: Hao Lei , Lin Haibin , Cui Shuaikang , Lu Xiaoli , Shao Jianqiang , Pan Jiayong , He Guangxi , Liu Qigen , Hu Zhongjun
Published: December 2024

A comprehensive understanding of the spatial and temporal distribution of fish and their relationship with aquatic environments is essential for assessing ecological impacts, advancing lake conservation, and optimizing fisheries management strategies. In this study, we investigated the distribution patterns of fish resources in Qiandao Lake, a large, deep-water lake in eastern China, using hydroacoustic methods. The results revealed pronounced spatial and temporal heterogeneity in the horizontal distribution of fish within the lake. Fish density peaked in autumn at 74.77 (±5.59) ind./1000 m2 and reached its lowest level in winter at 14.65 (±1.18) ind./1000 m2. Regionally, fish densities in the upstream (northwestern), midstream (central), and downstream (southeastern) areas were 84.80 (±4.32), 64.16 (±5.15), and 53.88 (±8.78) ind./1000 m2, respectively, showing an increasing trend with distance from the dam. The vertical distribution of fish also exhibited seasonal and regional variation. In spring, summer, and autumn, peak target strengths were recorded in the −50 to −45 dB range, with most fish measuring 10–20 cm in length. In contrast, during winter, peak target strengths shifted to the −45 to −40 dB range, with the smallest proportion of fish falling in the 1–10 cm size category, while size distributions across other ranges were relatively uniform. Generalized additive model (GAM) analysis revealed that fish density was significantly influenced by environmental factors such as dissolved oxygen (DO), pH, nitrite (NO2−), phosphate (PO43−), and chemical oxygen demand (CODMn). These findings suggest that fish distribution in lakes is shaped by regional variations in water quality, with additional impacts from human activities, including the opening of shipping lanes and fisheries management policies. This research provides valuable insights for optimizing fisheries management in large deep-water lakes.
Understanding Stakeholder Relationships in the Trialogue Model of Governance: A Case Study of the Biobío River Basin, Chile
Authors: Julio Natalia , Casas-Ledón Yannay , Lagos Octavio , Figueroa Ricardo
Published: December 2024

Integrated water resource management (IWRM) has been globally recognized as a key strategy for advancing toward water security; however, Chile has not yet implemented it. While water governance in the country has been predominantly analyzed through documents and laws, integrating empirical insights from local actors’ perspectives is essential. This study applied the trialogue model of governance to understand stakeholders’ perspectives and relationships, to identify barriers to achieving water security, and to explore the roles of different actors in enhancing governance systems. The research design focused on the Biobío River Basin (BRB) as a case study, employing a qualitative strategy for data collection through semi-structured interviews. Qualitative data analysis consisted on a thematic analysis, where interview transcripts were coded to identify relevant topics. The results reveal that Chile’s highly centralized governance structure, along with inadequate information management and socioeconomic conflicts related to the construction of hydroelectric power plants, pose significant barriers to achieving water security in the BRB. Key opportunities to address barriers include legal reforms, improved information management, and strengthened enforcement and supervision. Achieving effective governance relies heavily on legal reforms, mobilizing resources and creating spaces for raising social awareness. Transparent and accessible data-sharing mechanisms are also crucial for better information management. Although the trialogue model is a valuable framework for analyzing river basin governance, it is necessary to emphasize the need to account for the intricate nature of the society cluster in future studies.
Tackling Water and Waste Management Challenges Within the Tourism and Hospitality Industry: A Sustainable Development Goals Perspective
Authors: Mdoda Sisamkele S. , Dube Kaitano , Montsiemang Tshenolo
Published: December 2024

Like other economic sectors, such as agriculture, the tourism and hospitality industry faces numerous sustainability challenges, including substantial environmental water and waste footprints. These challenges emerge out of various factors; amongst them is general environmental degradation due to growing global populations and the increasing impact of and pressure from climate change that forces shareholders and tourists to demand that the tourism industry adopt sustainable practices. However, water and waste management studies related to the tourism industry remain limited worldwide. This study examined water and waste management issues from Environmental, Social, Governance (ESG) and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) perspectives, focusing on Cape Town hotels. The primary research question investigates how the tourism and hospitality industry has sought to address various targets under SDG 6 (water and sanitation) and SDG 12 (responsible consumption and production). Utilising mixed-method data collected through key informant interviews and field observations from 30 hotels in Cape Town’s central business district, this study found that after Day Zero in Cape Town, the hotel industry has intensified efforts to address water efficiency and security through the implementation of various technologies and techniques to ensure water sustainability. In addition to addressing water issues, the hotel industry is making increasing efforts to minimise and avoid hotel waste in response to consumer demand for accountability and sustainable tourism products. The study notes that while waste management is often challenging, it can provide businesses an opportunity to leverage progress in waste management and water to cut on expenditure and sustainability green marketing, which, in a manner, is financially rewarding. The study recommends financial and non-financial means to address waste and water management to foster better resource management in light of environmental and climate change challenges faced globally.
Standardization of confectionery products
Authors:   V.M. Gorbatov Federal Research Center for Food Systems of the RAS, Zamula V.S.
Published: December 2024

The article presents priority areas of standardization in the fi eld of confectionery. Current developments of standards have been identifi ed within the framework of the activities of the technical committee for standardization of TC 149 “Confectionery products”.
AVANCES EN GEOPOLÍMEROS REFORZADOS CON QUITINA: HACIA ALTERNATIVAS SOSTENIBLES AL CEMENTO PORTLAND
Authors: Asanza Hortencia , Baykara Haci , Anzules David
Published: December 2024

Este estudio evalúa los avances en geopolímeros reforzados con quitina como alternativas sostenibles al Cemento Portland Ordinario (CPO), con el objetivo de abordar los desafíos medioambientales asociados con la producción de CPO. Mediante la integración de metodologías de síntesis y caracterización de materiales compuestos, se investigó la incorporación de quitina derivada de fuentes biológicas en la matriz de geopolímeros. Los principales resultados muestran que la adición de quitina mejora las propiedades mecánicas, como la tenacidad y la durabilidad de los geopolímeros, además de reducir significativamente el impacto ambiental en comparación con el CPO tradicional. Las conclusiones destacan que los geopolímeros reforzados con quitina no solo ofrecen un rendimiento superior en términos de resistencia y sostenibilidad, sino que también representan una opción viable para la construcción verde, alineándose con las prácticas globales de reducción de emisiones y uso eficiente de recursos.
Perfil epidemiológico de toxoplasmose gestacional no Município de Guanambi, Bahia: 2020 a 2023
Authors: Aguiar Thayne , Viana Ellen Carneiro , Santos Pamera da Silva
Published: December 2024

A toxoplasmose gestacional é uma infecção causada pelo parasita Toxoplasma gondii, que pode acarretar sérias complicações para a mãe e o feto. Este artigo revisa a epidemiologia, os fatores de risco, as consequências e as estratégias de prevenção da doença no contexto brasileiro, bem como, na Bahia e no município de Guanambi,  entre 2020 a 2023, utilizando os dados do Data SUS.  A infecção é frequentemente assintomática em adultos saudáveis, mas durante a gestação, a transmissão vertical pode resultar em malformações congênitas, abortos e complicações neonatais. O estudo destaca os principais fatores de risco associados à toxoplasmose, como o consumo de carne mal cozida, a exposição a fezes de gatos e a falta de rastreamento pré-natal. A análise das políticas de saúde pública revela a necessidade de intervenções que visem a conscientização das gestantes e a implementação de programas de rastreamento eficazes. O papel da educação em saúde é fundamental para reduzir a incidência da infecção, orientando as gestantes sobre as medidas preventivas, como a manipulação segura de alimentos e a higiene adequada. Além disso, o artigo enfatiza a importância da pesquisa contínua sobre a prevalência da infecção e suas repercussões, sugerindo que um enfoque multidisciplinar pode otimizar a assistência às gestantes e melhorar os resultados perinatais. A toxoplasmose gestacional, embora muitas vezes negligenciada, requer atenção e ação efetiva para proteger a saúde materno-infantil no Brasil.
Early intervention on at-risk infants: effect of parent’s guidance and home stimuli
Authors: Neto Manoel de Souza Costa , Santos Andressa Taiane de Souza , Santana Francisco Mariano Ramos , Carvalho Marilha Gabriella Menezes de , Souza Rosana Machado de
Published: December 2024

Objective: To verify the effectiveness of early intervention in at-risk infants, to analyse the parents' knowledge regarding the quality and quantity of environmental stimuli and the effect of guidance to parents within the home. Method: This is a pilot study with single-blind random distribution. Seven infants of both sexes, aged between 3 and 18 months, participated in this study, divided into a control group (CG) - who received only guidance at the outpatient clinic - and an experimental group (EG) - who received home visits to guide their parents. To investigate the quantity and quality of stimuli in the family environment, the Affordance in the Home Environment for Motor Development - Infant Scale (AHEMD-IS) was used. To assess the infants' motor performance, the Alberta Infant Motor Scale (AIMS) was applied. Results: Regarding motor development, there was an improvement of 4 points in the CG and 4.7 points in the EG between the first and second evaluations. When observing opportunities for environmental stimuli, an increase of 3.7 points was found in the CG and 12 points in the EG between the first and second assessments, indicating a greater gain in the EG compared to the CG. Conclusion: The home guidelines had a positive impact on the lives of infants, offering information that provided a stimulating environment with better resources, ensuring better motor development, in addition to minimizing the risks of delay in child development.
SOSIALISASI 3 DOSA BESAR DALAM PENDIDIKAN UNTUK MENANAMKAN NILAI KARAKTER BAGI SISWA/I SMK KARYA NASIONAL, KAB. KUNINGAN JAWA BARAT
Authors: Niantoro Sutrisno  , Ahmad Saepudin  , Jalaludin  , Euis Winarti  , Susanto
Published: December 2024

This study discusses the 3 big sins of education that many students in indonesia do not yet know what the 3 big sins are in the world of  education. The aim of this activicy is to analyze and find ways to prevent the 3 major sins in the education of student participants at SMK  Karya Nasional. This activity method  uses a lecture (presentation) method to provide material counseling to the participants. This socialization activity aims to help students understand their understanding of the 3 major sins and their negative impacts, as well as offering practical solutions to support students perfect personality development. From the result obtained, students can learn from the consequences of bullying, sexual violence and intolerance by preventing it and even eliminating it. Apart from that, efforts must be made by schools, namely by providing a special place to provide students with learning material about friendship etiquette, learning etiquette, as well as material about the negative impacts of bullying and sexual violence