bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Randomised Controlled Trial of Intermittent Energy Restriction (IER) Versus Continuous Energy Restriction (CER) on Body Fat Stores and Measures of Insulin Resistance in Women with Obesity at Increased Risk of Breast Cancer
Authors: Harvie Michelle Nerissa , Coe Pete , Higham Claire , Peach Nina , Howell Anthony , Evans Gareth , Wiliams Steve , Sellers Kath , Malcomson Lee , Pegington Mary , Renehan Andrew
Published: February 2025

Background
Weight loss and energy restriction are potential strategies for reducing cancer risk, particularly if they reduce ectopic body fat and improve insulin resistance. This randomised study compared the effects of intermittent energy restriction (IER) to continuous energy restriction (CER) on hepatic, pancreatic and intramuscular fat, and insulin resistance.
Method Premenopausal women with obesity (n=28) were randomised to two months of 25% energy restriction: IER (2 days/week 600 kcal and 5 days/week Mediterranean diet) versus CER (7 days/week Mediterranean diet). Changes in body weight, hepatic, pancreatic and intramuscular fat (magnetic resonance spectroscopy) and insulin resistance (HOMA and oral glucose tolerance test), body fat and muscle mass (bioelectrical impedance), resting metabolic rate (RMR, indirect calorimetry) were assessed during the energy restricted and normal eating days of IER compared to CER.
Results
9 IER and 11 CER participants completed the trial. IER and CER had comparable reductions in body weight mean (SD): IER -6.7(1.4) kg CER -6.2(2.9) kg, and reductions in hepatic, pancreatic and intramuscular fat stores. Fasting measures of insulin resistance (HOMA IR, HOMA-β and fasting insulin) reduced in the CER group and with IER when assessed immediately after the two low energy days but were not maintained during normal eating days. There were no changes in 2-hour glucose in either group.
Conclusions
IER and CER have comparable reductions in weight and ectopic fat stores. The clinical significance of the failure to maintain beneficial insulin sensitivity across the week with IER is not known and requires further study.
A Systematic Literature Review of Eye Tracking and Machine Learning Methods for Improving Productivity and Reading Abilities
Authors: Arnold Lewis , Aryal Soniya , Hong Brandon , Nitharsan Mahiethan , Shah Anaya , Ahmed Waasiq , Lilani Zakariya , Su Wanzi , Piaggio Davide
Published: February 2025

Deteriorating eyesight is increasingly prevalent in the digital age due to prolonged screen exposure and insufficient eye care, leading to reduced productivity and difficulties in maintaining focus during extended reading sessions. This systematic literature review, following PRISMA guidelines, evaluates 1782 articles, with 42 studies ultimately included, assessing their quality using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). The selected studies are categorised into eye metric classification, measuring comprehension, measuring attention and typography & typesetting. Recent advances have demonstrated the potential of machine learning to enhance eye movement predictions, such as classification of fixations and saccades, while other research utilises eye metrics to assess mental fatigue and attention levels. Additionally, modifications to typography have been explored as a means of improving focus and memory retention. The findings highlight the transformative role of eye-tracking technologies and machine learning in understanding reading behaviour, attention, and cognitive workload. However, challenges such as data scarcity, limited generalisability, and biases in existing methodologies persist. Addressing these gaps through standardised frameworks, diverse datasets, and advancements in synthetic data generation could enhance the accessibility, accuracy, and real-world applicability of eye-tracking solutions for improving reading comprehension and focus.
Understanding Nasty Rhetoric: Hate, Threats and Violence in Swedish Climate Politics
Authors: von Malmborg Fredrik
Published: February 2025

Growing power of far-right parties in Sweden and other European countries has led to a more divisive politics on climate change. A far-right populist nativist party is currently holding tangible powers, dictating the ambitions, content and process of Swedish climate politics. In less than two years, Swedish climate politics have turned into an antidemocratic politics with increasing greenhouse gas emissions. This paper analyses the increasingly divisive nature of Swedish climate politics, with focus on the use of hateful and threatening rhetoric – nasty rhetoric. Based on empirical data from 114 newspapers, magazines, radio, television and social media, as well as insights from research in neurobiology, psychology, sociology and political science, this paper explores and explains the use and nature of nasty rhetoric, using contemporary Swedish climate politics as a case study. It is found that leading (far) right-wing politicians portray climate science as “a point of view”, green politicians as “strawmen” that should be “killed”, female climate journalists as “left pack” and “moron hags” that “will be raped”, and the climate justice movement as “totalitarian terrorists” and “a threat to Swedish democracy” that should be “sent to prison” and “executed”. Nasty rhetoric is used not only by anonymous trolls in social media, but openly by the prime minister, cabinet ministers and leading parliamentarians educated in libertarianism or affiliated with the far-right populist party. Their use of nasty rhetoric can be described as a double-edged sword, aiming to silence the opponents to the current paradigm shift in Swedish climate policy, but also for mobilising followers through conspiracy theories of symbolic threats and expand the weird sport of nasty rhetoric. People persuaded to follow and continue using nasty rhetoric are influenced by social processes but also determined by dark personality traits. The opposition is also using hateful rhetoric, but of a less aggressive nature, to reveal far-right populist climate policy and politicians as a naked emperor.
Tax Compliance Determinants: Insights from Gender, Entity Size and Legal Status in a Greek Experiment
Authors: Angeliki Skoura V. , Thomas Dasaklis K.
Published: February 2025

The problem of tax non-compliance remains a significant challenge for governments worldwide, with persistent economic and financial implications. However, the synergistic potential of gender differences, legal status, and entity size disparities in tax compliance behavior highlight areas not fully covered in the existing literature. This study presents data from a field tax compliance experiment involving business executives responsible for their companies’ tax decisions. Our findings suggest that changes in tax levels or information about controllability may not significantly impact compliance behavior. However, higher fines and increased audit probabilities appear to improve compliance among participants. Notably, there are statistically significant gender differences in compliance, with female entrepreneurs generally showing higher levels of compliance than male 10 entrepreneurs, particularly under increased audit conditions. Additionally, legal status and entity size seem to significantly affect tax compliance. Smaller companies with fewer assets tend to demonstrate lower compliance rates, likely due to limited resources and expertise. Different legal statuses, which come with varying tax duties and compliance requirements, also influence compliance behavior. The findings suggest that policy decision-makers could enhance overall tax compliance by considering strategies such as raising audit frequency and penalties, implementing supportive policies for small businesses, and rewarding accurate reporting.
Potential Novel Tissue Biomarkers in Salivary Glands of Patients with Sjogren’s Syndrome
Authors: Sadullahoglu Canan , Yaprak Neslihan , Yazısız Veli , Ozbudak Irem Hicran
Published: February 2025

Primary Sjogren's Syndrome (PSS) is an autoimmune disease caused by chronic inflammation of the exocrine glands. We aimed to determine the immunohistochemical parameters that may help the diagnosis of PSS and to determine the histopathological markers for the early diagnosis of the patients. Hematoxylin-Eosin-stained preparations of salivary gland tissue samples of the control group consisting of 9 healthy patients without autoimmune disease and 12 patients diagnosed with non-specific chronic sialadenitis (NCS) and the diseased group consisting of 39 patients diagnosed with PSS were evaluated. SSA/Ro (TRIM21), SSB/la, BAFF, enolase (ENO1), and MMP-9 antibodies were applied to the samples to assess the presence of staining in the ductal, acini, and inflammation regions. Mild staining was detected in the ductal areas with the SSA/Ro (TRIM21) antibody in all cases with PSS, and no staining was found in patients with healthy salivary gland biopsy and NCS (p<0.01). ENO1 and MMP-9 antibodies also had (statistically significant) higher and more intense staining in the ductal areas in NCS and PSS compared to the patients with normal salivary glands (p<0.01). Our study suggests that SSA/Ro (TRIM21), ENO1, MMP9, and BAFF can be used to confirm the diagnosis in cases of suspicion.
Performance Evaluation of Cotton-Nylon Blends Across Different Yarn Structures
Authors: Islam Rofi MD Rofiul
Published: February 2025

Combining several fibers enhances the strength, elongation, and homogeneity of yarn. This study investigates how yarn performance is affected by the blending of cotton (CO) with nylon (PA). In yarn constructions that were stiff, core-spun, and dual-core-spun, different blend ratios were evaluated. According to the findings, adding more nylon increases the yarn's strength, elongation, and durability while decreasing its unevenness and flaws. Greater elongation and flexibility were demonstrated by core and dual-core-spun yarns, which made them perfect for high-performance uses including industrial textiles and sportswear.
The Regenerative Marriage Between High-Density Platelet-Rich Plasma and Adipose Tissue
Authors: Everts Peter A. , Podesta Luga , Lana José Fabio , Shapiro George , Domingues Rafael Barnabé , Zundert Andre van , Alexander Robert W.
Published: February 2025

The use of autologous biological preparations (ABPs) and their combinations fills a void in health care treatment options that exists between surgical procedures, like plastic reconstructive, cosmetic, orthopedic, non-surgical musculoskeletal biological procedures, and current pharmaceutical treatments. ABPs, including high-density platelet-rich plasma (HD-PRP), bone marrow aspirate concentrates (BMACs), and adipose tissue preparations, with its unique stromal vascular fractions (SVFs), can play important roles in tissue regeneration and repair processes. They can be easily and safely prepared at point of care. Health care professionals can employ ABPs to mimic the classical wound healing cascade, initiate the angiogenesis cascade, and to induce tissue regenerative pathways aiming to restore the integrity and function of damaged tissues. In this chapter we will address combining autologous HD-PRP with adipose tissue, in particular tissue stromal vascular fraction (t-SVF) as we believe that this biocellular combination demonstrates synergistic effect, where the HD- PRP constituents enhance the regenerative potential of t-SVF and its adipose-derived mesenchymal stem cells (AD-MSCs), and pericytes, leading to improved functional tissue repair, tissue regeneration, and wound healing in variety of clinical applications. We will address some relevant platelet bio-physiological aspects, since these properties contribute to the synergistic effects of combining HD-PRP with t-SVF, promoting overall better outcomes in chronic inflammatory conditions, soft tissue repair, tissue rejuvenation.
Different Proteostasis Mechanisms Facilitate the Assembly of Individual Components on the Chitin Synthase 3 Complex at the Endoplasmic Reticulum
Authors: Sánchez Noelia , Valle Rosario , Roncero César
Published: February 2025

Chitin synthase 3 complex assembly begins at the endoplasmic reticulum where the formation of a Chs3/Chs7 complex facilitates its exit from the ER and its transport along the secretory route. In the present study, our work shows that orphan molecules of Chs7 can exit the ER and are later recycled from the early Golgi by coat protein I (COPI) machinery via the adaptor complex Erv41/Erv46. Moreover, an eventual excess of the protein in the Golgi is recognized by the GGA complex and targeted to the vacuole for degradation through the ESCRT machinery. Non-oligomerizable versions of Chs3, can also exit the ER individually and follow a similar route to that of Chs7. We therefore demonstrate the traffic of unassembled CS3 subunits and describe the cellular mechanisms that guarantee the correct assembly of this protein complex at the ER while providing a default traffic route to the vacuole in case of its failure.
This traffic route is shared with canonical ER adaptors, such as Erv29 and Erv14, and other components of protein complexes. The comparative analysis of their traffic allows us to discern a cellular program that combines COPI recycling, proteasomal degradation, and vacuolar disposal for maintaining protein homeostasis at the ER.
Contributions to the Description of the Instars of the Planthopper Hyalesthes obsoletus (Fulgoromorpha, Hemiptera)
Authors: Tiefenbrunner Astrid , Tiefenbrunner Wolfgang
Published: February 2025

Hyalesthes obsoletus, a planthopper of the family Cixiidae, is a very efficient vector of the phytopathogenic bacterium ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma solani’, which causes diseases in a variety of crops, including grapevines. The larvae are oligophagous and infect their host plants, in Central Europe mainly Convolvulus arvensis and Urtica dioica, the polyphagous adults transmit the pathogen both to the hosts of the larvae and to the crop plants, which are dead-end hosts in the infection process. In this study, characteristics of the larval stages are analysed comparatively. Body length, length of the antenna, the labium and the metathoracic limb were determined for the five instars and conclusions drawn about changes in proportions. Furthermore, the morphology of the antennae was described, the development of the eye primordium, the distribution of the sensory pits on the pro-, meso- and metanotum, the alteration of the tarsi and other features of the hind legs (‘gear-teeth’ as in Issus are present) and the structure of the wax plates of the abdomen during individual development. The characteristics of these features were summarised in a table and allow a reliable instar classification. The easiest way to do this is with the aid of the wax plate, which is divided mediolaterally into several sections by sensory pits. This results in a simple relation: Instar = number of wax plate sections – 1. The results are compared in particular with the description of the larval stages by Sforza et al. 1999. Larval development is relevant for the beginning of the flight period and thus also for the start of pathogen spread in the course of the year.
Structure and diversity of the fish assemblage in a port area of the coastal zone of the Eastern Amazon in Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Athina da Silva , Castro Antonio Carlos Leal de , Azevedo James Werllen de Jesus , Soares Leonardo Silva , Lourenço Caio Brito , Teixeira Alef Fontinele , Silva Scarlleth Patrícia Salomão da , Silva Marcelo Henrique Lopes
Published: February 2025

The aim of the present study was to characterize the ichthyofauna of the Coqueiros Strait in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. Sampling was conducted at three-month intervals from February to December 2022 at four sampling points using barrier nets with a 35-mm mesh between opposing knots, measuring 40 meters in length and approximately 6 meters in height. Both abiotic (salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, and redox potential) and biotic data (weight, sex, and total length) were collected. A total of 41 species belonging to 25 families were recorded, with the families Ariidae and Sciaenidae being the most represented in terms of abundance distribution. Equitability was assessed, and the abundance-biomass comparison curve indicated an environment without significant degradation. The results indicate that the Coqueiros Strait region is crucial for the development of ichthyofauna in the Golfão Maranhense, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and sustainable management practices to protect these vital ecosystems.
ANALISIS PERKEMBANGAN TINGKAT UTANG, UKURAN PERUSAHAAN, DAN ARUS KAS OPERASI PADA SEKTOR PROPERTI DAN REAL ESTAT SELAMA 5 TAHUN TERAKHIR
Authors: Pujiastuti Pangestu Rizma , Pahala Indra , Handarini Dwi
Published: February 2025

This study aims to analyze the development of debt levels, company size, and operating cash flow in the property and real estate sector over the last 5 years. The method used in this research is descriptive statistical analysis using secondary data from the financial statements of 55 property and real estate companies listed on the IDX during the period 2019-2023. The analysis technique used is the DER as a proxy for debt levels, total assets as a proxy for company size, and the operating cash flow ratio. The results of the study indicate that the debt levels of the sample are still below the industry average, but there is an increase in total assets as a proxy for company size. Meanwhile, the average operating cash flow ratio for companies in this sector is below 1.
Keyword: Debt Levels, Company Size, Operating Cash Flow
Fibrous ginseng root biomass induces soil microbiome degradation by enriching ginseng pathogens
Authors: Xiao Shengyuan , Zhu Si-Heng , Li Yu-Ting , Baoyin Bate , Zhang Ming-Xiao , Zhang Lianxue , Li Yu
Published: February 2025

Root-mediated soil microbiome degeneration leads to diseases in plants, a process not fully understood, impeding effective management strategies. Ginseng, particularly vulnerable to replant disease, is an ideal subject for studying this phenomenon. Rhizodeposits are central to shaping the rhizospheric microbiome, among which root biomass is the most abundant yet often overlooked component. Our research focused on the impact of ginseng fibrous root biomass (GFR) on soil fungi filtration. We explored how GFR affects fungal populations in soils and in vitro, identifying a significant shift towards biomass-decomposing fungi, including ginseng pathogens. GFR-adding decreased 82.8% of ginseng seedling emergence. The pathogen Fusarium oxysporum increased up to 18.8-fold in abundance. The ethanol-insoluble residue of GFR was responsible for this fungal community alteration, mirroring GFR’s effects in pathogen enrichment and fungal community shaping. Certain GFR-enriched fungi prevented GFR-mediated changes in 53.9–68.4% of fungi. This research highlights a novel mechanism influencing rhizospheric microbiome evolution.
From the Dingo Fence to the Mechanical River
Authors: de Lima Edilson
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a hydraulic system to address water scarcity in arid regions by mimicking natural processes through advanced engineering. It collects water from diverse sources, channels it to reservoirs via pumps, and stores it in tanks on the high relief of Australian MacDonnell ranges, utilizing gravitational potential for distribution. Industrial piping creates artificial rivers to supply lakes and irrigate drought-affected areas. Considered analytical studies, fluid mechanics, energy optimization, and sustainability principles model water collection, storage, and distribution. Differential equations simulate water flow through complex terrains, accounting for pressure losses, friction, and gravity. The project employs Building Information Modeling (BIM) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to design, simulate, validate efficiency, and identify gaps. A cost-benefit analysis evaluates economic viability and socio-environmental impacts, highlighting benefits for communities, ecosystems, and agriculture. This scalable system aligns with UN sustainable water management goals, offering a replicable solution to global water scarcity in challenging environments.
Conformational Dynamics and Membrane Insertion Mechanism of B4GALNT1 in Ganglioside Synthesis
Authors: Deane Janet , Welland Jack , Barrow Henry , Stansfeld Phillip
Published: February 2025

Glycosphingolipids (GSLs) are crucial membrane components involved in essential cellular pathways. Complex GSLs, known as gangliosides, are synthesised in the ER/Golgi by a series of glycosyltransferase enzymes. Imbalances in GSL metabolism can lead to severe diseases, often affecting the nervous system. B4GALNT1 is a key enzyme in the ganglioside synthetic pathway, synthesising complex gangliosides including GM2 and GD2 from GM3 and GD3. These products are precursors to the major brain gangliosides. Loss of B4GALNT1 function causes hereditary spastic paraplegia 26 (HSP26), while its overexpression is linked to cancers including childhood neuroblastoma. Here, we present crystal structures of the homodimeric B4GALNT1 enzyme demonstrating conformational changes upon binding of donor substrate ligands and product. These structures support a catalytic mechanism that involves dynamic remodelling of the substrate binding site during catalysis. We also demonstrate that processing of lipid substrates by B4GALNT1 is severely compromised when surface loops flanking the active site are mutated from hydrophobic residues to polar. Molecular dynamics simulations support that these loops can insert into the lipid bilayer explaining how B4GALNT1 accesses and processes lipid substrates. By combining structure prediction and molecular simulations we propose that this mechanism of dynamic membrane insertion is exploited by other, structurally distinct GSL synthesising enzymes.
Gametophytic degradation of CENH3 - a synthetic biology approach for haploid induction in plants
Authors: Houben Andreas , Somasundaram Saravanakumar , Fuchs Jörg , Cuacos Maria , Weiß Oda , Kochevenko Andriy , Lamb Jonathan
Published: February 2025

Double haploid technology is a critical tool for accelerating plant breeding. The manipulation of centromere-specific histone H3 (CENH3) has previously been shown to induce haploid progeny in both the model plant Arabidopsis and certain crop species. However, a universally applicable strategy for CENH3-based haploid induction across diverse crop species is still lacking. Here, we demonstrate that extreme asymmetry in centromeric CENH3 levels between parental chromosomes is a causal factor for eliminating chromosomes with ‘weaker’ centromeres during early embryogenesis. Consequently, engineered E3-ligases were utilized to selectively degrade CENH3 in the egg cell to induce wild-type paternal haploids. Also, we attempted to optimize the CENH3 degradation using E3-ligases of plant-origin. Our findings provide valuable insights to enhance the haploid induction efficiency further. The gametophytic CENH3 degradation approach leverages engineering principles and represents a potentially universal strategy for engineering CENH3-based haploid inducers in crop plants.
Impact of Public Interest on Agricultural CommodityPrices
Authors: Park Sangmin , Ha Mijin , Yi Seungheon , Kim Donghyun , Yoon Ji-Hun , Lee Hyojung , Jung Il-Hyo
Published: February 2025

As financial markets grow more complex and sophisticated, the use of diverse data sources has become essential for accurate market analysis and prediction. This study leverages Google Trends data, representing public search interest, and combines it with a long short-term memory (LSTM) model to explore its impact on futures prices for major agricultural commodities. By applying the model to commodities such as corn, wheat, cocoa, and coffee, we analyze how fluctuations in public interest influence price volatility. The results confirm that periods of heightened search frequency for specific words often correspond to changes in futures price behavior, indicating that public sentiment plays a role in market dynamics. This study demonstrates that integrating social data, like Google Trends, into financial forecasting frameworks can enhance predictive accuracy and market insights, analyzing that the relationship between investors’ sentiment and commodity prices in the financial market quantitatively.
Improved Birth Rates via Rehydration of Mouse Freeze-Dried Spermatozoa using High-Temperature Ultrapure Water
Authors: Yamaji Kango , Wakayama Sayaka , Ushigome Natsuki , Ito Daiyu , Wakayama Teruhiko
Published: February 2025

Freeze-drying (FD) is a promising method for achieving the long-term, low-cost, and safe preservation of mammalian sperm at room temperature (RT). However, the birth rate of embryos fertilized with FD sperm is reduced to less than half compared to those fertilized with fresh sperm. Moreover, the underlying causes and potential solutions remain unclear. In this study, we investigated a previously unexamined rehydration process using FD sperm to determine its effects on sperm DNA damage. We also attempted to optimize this rehydration method to improve birth rates. Initially, we examined the effects of slowing water infiltration into FD sperm using a high osmolarity or viscosity solution, but this increased DNA damage and decreased birth rates. Next, to accelerate infiltration speed, we performed rehydration of FD sperm using ultrapure water heated up to as hot as 90℃. However, we found that the DNA damage of the FD sperm decreased as the temperature increased. The level of DNA damage in the male pronucleus at the zygote stage and of abnormal chromosome segregation (ACS) at the two-cell stage were also decreased at 37℃ or 50℃. Finally, the birth rates of embryos derived from FD sperm also significantly improved when rehydration was performed using 50℃ ultrapure water (37%) compared with the RT control (21%). Taken together, the results of this study demonstrate that the DNA of FD sperm can be damaged during the rehydration process and that rapid rehydration significantly improves the birth rate.
Does height matter? The Embodied impacts of tallness, slab thickness, building code and design tranches.
Authors: Hoffer Avery , Bentz Evan , Saxe Shoshanna
Published: February 2025

Societies across the globe are simultaneously trying to build significantly more housing to meet the needs of a growing population and emit significantly less greenhouse gas emissions to meet the pressures of the climate crisis. This is precipitating debates about the nature of sustainable housing. ‘Conventional wisdom’ holds that tall buildings are bad for the environment coinciding with longstanding skepticism of such buildings, yet the research and data on this question is often anecdotal or incomplete and contradictory. In this paper we wade into the debate on how to build sustainable housing, particularly with regards to building design and height. This paper examines the effects of building height on embodied greenhouse gas emissions for 5-to-20 storey reinforced concrete buildings. We find that while height does minimally increase embodied emissions per rentable area, the impact is within the noise of other design choices, particularly slab thickness and design tranches – number of storeys with identical design. These results show that the debate around tall buildings and sustainability is too often focused on the wrong question and opportunities to design much better buildings are being overlooked.
Environmental Discourse: Media, Communication & Sustainable Future
Authors: Dwivedi Dr. Kuldip , Mishra Dr. Pranav
Published: February 2025

"Environmental Discourse: Media, Communication & Sustainable Future" investigates the critical role of media and communication in shaping environmental awareness and driving sustainable practices. This edited volume brings together diverse perspectives to analyze how media narratives influence public opinion, policymaking, and collective action on pressing environmental issues. It addresses themes such as climate change communication, eco-activism, greenwashing, and the impact of digital platforms on environmental advocacy. By bridging theoretical insights with case studies, the book offers a comprehensive understanding of how effective communication strategies can contribute to a sustainable future. This work serves as an essential resource for researchers, practitioners, and policymakers in environmental studies, media, and communication fields.
Integrating wavelet transform and support vector machine for improved drought forecasting based on standardized precipitation index
Authors: Rezaiy Reza , Shabri Ani
Published: February 2025

This study proposes a hybrid discrete wavelet transform (DWT) and support vector machine (SVM) model (W-SVM) to enhance drought prediction accuracy compared to traditional SVM and autoregressive integrated moving average (ARIMA) models using the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI). Fifty years of historical average monthly precipitation data from the Kabul province, Afghanistan, are analysed. The data are split into training and testing sets at an 80/20 ratio. Daubechies order 2 (db2) is selected as the mother wavelet function with three decomposition levels for SPI-3, -6, -9, and -12. Each decomposed element, including detail components (D1, D2, D3) and approximation (A3), is forecasted with an SVM model, and the final forecast is obtained by summing all levels. Statistical metrics such as root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and correlation coefficient (R2) are used for evaluation. Results demonstrate that W-SVM outperforms benchmark models, achieving lower RMSE and MAE values and higher R2 across all SPI values. These findings highlight DWT's effectiveness in enhancing SVM's capability for SPI pattern recognition. The proposed model provides accurate and timely drought predictions, making it a valuable tool for real-time drought monitoring and management, enabling informed decision-making to reduce drought impacts.
Enhancing accuracy in streamflow prediction under climate change scenarios based on an integrated machine learning–metaheuristic optimization approach
Authors: Heshamati Sara , Nazari Bijan , Nikoo Mohamad Reza
Published: February 2025

In this study, the impact of climate change on streamflow is investigated using the adaptive neuro-fuzzy inference system (ANFIS) model and integrating it with metaheuristic optimization algorithms, including particle swarm optimization (PSO) and genetic algorithm (GA) under four models: MPI-ESML-2HR, MIROC6, IPSL-CM6A-IL, GFDL-ESM4, and scenarios: SSP1-26, SSP3-70, SSP5-85, for time periods (2026–2100) for which the Qazvin Plain salt marsh was investigated. LARSWG8 was used for downscaling and then bias-corrected with the quantile mapping (QM) method. Mann–Kendall and Sen's slope tests were utilized to identify the trends of climatic observational parameters. The results generally showed that among the models used, ANFIS–PSO and ANFIS–GA, respectively, showed better performance compared with ANFIS, with correlation coefficient, root mean square error (m3/s), Nash–Sutcliffe, and Kling–Gupta coefficients of 0.98, 0.19, 0.91 and 0.97 in the training period and 0.97, 0.20, 0.83 and 0.95 in the testing period. The results also indicated that streamflow will decrease under all climate change scenarios, especially during the first four months of the year in future periods. This reduction in streamflow could have widespread consequences, including negative impacts on ecosystems, economic conditions, and social structures. Therefore, optimal water-resource management, adaptation to new conditions, and precise planning for the future are essential.
From the history of the organization of agricultural production management in the USSR during the agrarian reforms of the 1960–1970's
Authors:   Saratov State University of Genetics, Biotechnology and Engineering named after N.I. Vavilov, B. Dudnikova Elena , A. Nozhkina Irina ,   Saratov State University of Genetics, Biotechnology and Engineering named after N.I. Vavilov, N. Shmygina Oksana ,   Saratov State University of Genetics, Biotechnology and Engineering named after N.I. Vavilov
Published: February 2025

Background. Solving modern problems of the development of the agricultural and industrial complex of Russia, among others, sets the task of improving the quality of its management. The success of certain agricultural transformations largely depends on how professionally and timely management decisions are developed and made. The effectiveness of management is determined by many components: natural biological, technical, political, qualitative composition of management personnel, etc. An equally important factor in the further modernization of the management system is the creative use of the historical experience of the management organization in the periods of history, which include both positive and negative aspects of activities in this area. This study attempts to highlight some of the most significant stories characterizing the experience, features and contradictions of the process of improving the organization of agricultural production management in the USSR during one of the most successful periods of agra. Materials and methods. The research is based on documents and materials reflecting the history of the organization of agricultural production management in the USSR during the agrarian reforms of the 1965-1970s and contributing to the disclosure of the essence of the process. The basis of the research methods are the basic historical methods: historicism, objectivity, consistency, which made it possible to highlight the material used and present the results of the study with maximum reliability. Results. The study examined the experience of organizing management and production in the agricultural sector of the economy during its modernization in the 1960s–1970s. Conclusions. During the period under review, the management sought to improve the efficiency of agricultural production management, and advanced forms of production organization appropriate to the time were introduced. But for various reasons, the process of modernizing management was slowed down: departmental disunity persisted, along with modern forms of work, outdated ones were used, and legal norms lagged behind the advanced industrial relations in rural areas.
Using combined computational grids in the problem of reconstructing body inhomogeneities based on near-field measurement results
Authors:   Penza State University, A. Zaytsev Boris , Yu. Medvedik Mikhail ,   Penza State University
Published: February 2025

Background. The purpose of this study is to develop an effective non-invasive method for determining the properties of the object under consideration. Material and methods. For these purposes, the inverse diffraction problem is solved using combined or generalized computational grids. The paper presents a description of the direct and inverse problems. Results and conclusions. The result of solving the direct problem is obtained as a solution to the corresponding volume integral equation. To solve the inverse problem, a two-step method is used. A detailed description of the numerical method is presented. Numerical results are obtained and solutions to the problem with noisy and non-noisy input data are compared.
Autodeterminação na aprendizagem musical mediada por tecnologias digitais no ensino médio: uma pesquisa-ação em uma escola estadual de Mossoró/RN
Authors:   , Silva Gibson Alves Marinho da
Published: February 2025

Este estudo teve o objetivo de investigar a percepção de alunos do ensino médio sobre a satisfação de suas necessidades psicológicas básicas na aprendizagem musical mediada por tecnologias digitais. (REEVE, 2006; RYAN; DECI, 2017; DECI; RYAN, 2000; DECI, 1998). Segundo a Teoria da Autodeterminação, a motivação é influenciada por fatores intrapessoais e interpessoais, ou seja, os fatores internos e externos que influenciam a motivação. Segundo Ryan e Deci (2017, 2000a), ambientes nos quais os sujeitos tenham liberdade nas suas escolhas (apoio à autonomia) e as atividades estejam de acordo com as suas habilidades (percepção de competência), proporcionam um vínculo social (sentimento de pertencimento). Para alcançarmos os nossos objetivos, utilizamos o método da pesquisa-ação integral, na perspectiva de André Morin (2004). Os dados foram coletados por meio de questionário online, observação participante, entrevista – através do grupo focal – interações online e observações das filmagens. Os resultados indicaram que a motivação dos alunos nas aulas de artes/música não estava intrinsecamente motivada, mas sim, extrinsecamente, nos seus níveis mais autodeterminados. Dessa forma, a motivação foi considerada enigmática e multifacetada. A motivação apresentada pelos alunos dependeu bastante do estilo motivacional do professor, do ambiente social e das relações interpessoais. Os aplicativos, sites e jogos propostos neste estudo, puderam promover as necessidades psicológicas básicas dos alunos, como também possibilitou uma opção viável para o ensino de música no ensino médio
Higher Selective Targeting of Telomeric Multimeric G-quadruplex by Natural Product Berberine
Authors: Chen Jixin , He Yi , Xu Yang , Umer Muhammad , Anwar Naureen , Wei Shiya , Liu Wenbin , Wang Zhangqian , Gao Chao
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

G-quadruplexes (G4s) are non-classical high-level structures
that are formed by DNA/RNA sequences and have been a promising target for developing
antitumor drugs. However, it is still a challenge to find a ligand that binds to a particular
G4 with selectivity. Telomeric multimeric G4s are more accessible for screening for
specific ligands due to their higher-order structure compared with telomeric monomeric
G4s.

Method:

In this study, the natural product berberine was found to exhibit a higher selectivity
for telomeric multimeric G4 in comparison with other G4s. The mechanism of
interaction between telomeric G4s and berberine was further investigated by fluorescence
spectra measurements, job plot analysis, and UV titrations. We found that there
are three binding sites for berberine on telomeric dimeric G-quadruplex Tel45, which
are located at the 5' and 3' terminal G-quartet surfaces and the pocket between the two
quadruplex units of Tel45. It was worth noting that the berberine preferred to interact
within the interfacial cavity between two G4 units.

Results:

Moreover, via dynamic light scattering (DLS) and native polyacrylamide gel
electrophoresis (Native-PAGE) assays, it was found that the particle size of the telomeric
multimeric G4s conformation was significantly increased by the addition of berberine.
In contrast, the particle sizes of Tel21 did not change significantly after the addition
of berberine. An immunofluorescence assay indicated that berberine induced the formation
of endogenous telomeric G4 structures along with the related telomeric DNA damage
response.

Conclusion:

This study provides a hypothetical basis for the development of natural
products targeting telomeric G4 as antitumor drugs.
Therapeutic Effects and Mechanisms of Icaritin in Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Zheng Chongbo , Wu Lizhen , Luo Liang , Cai Jiating , Huang Zhihua , Tian Keqiang
Published: February 2025

Parkinson's Disease (PD) is a neurodegenerative disorder of the central nervous system (CNS). Given
the increasing age of the general population, PD has emerged as a significant public health and societal concern,
impacting both individual well-being and socioeconomic progress. The present interventions have
proven insufficient in impeding the progressive nature of PD. Consequently, it is imperative to promptly identify
efficacious strategies for the prevention and treatment of PD. Icaritin (ICT) is a flavonoid extracted from
Epimedium Brevicornu Maxim that is a phytoestrogen with antitumour, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiaging,
and neuroprotective properties. This paper reviews the protective effect of ICT on dopaminergic neurons
through anti-oxidative stress, improving mitochondrial function, inhibiting neuroinflammatory responses, reducing
Lewy body formation, and decreasing apoptosis. The primary objective of this article is to provide valuable
insights and serve as a reference for the potential use of ICT in the prevention and treatment of PD.
An Emerging Prospective of Antipsychotics for Treating Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Kumar Bhavna , Sahoo Arpita , Singhal Manmohan , varshney Garima , Haldar Tripti , Bali Vikas
Published: February 2025

CNS illnesses specified by slow deprivation of especially preganglionic neurons, as opposed to the
selective static neuronal loss caused by a toxic or metabolic condition, are known as Neurodegenerative disorders.
Neurodegenerative disorders are differentiated clinically by behavioral or cognitive problems. The management
and treatment of neurodegenerative disorders pose significant challenges, necessitating a multidimensional
approach. While primarily designed for psychiatric conditions, antipsychotics have shown potential
in ameliorating behavioral and psychological symptoms in neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's
and Parkinson's diseases. This review explores the existing literature, highlighting the potential benefits, risks,
and considerations associated with incorporating antipsychotics into the treatment paradigm for neurodegenerative
disorders. Additionally, it discusses the evolving landscape of personalized treatment strategies, emphasizing
the need for a multidisciplinary approach to optimize patient outcomes in the complex realm of neurodegenerative
disorder management.
Potential New Treatments for Chronic Kidney Diseases: A Concise Review
Authors: Al-Horani Rami A.
Published: February 2025

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) affects about 37 million Americans. Approximately 20% of patients
with high blood pressure and 33% of patients with diabetes have kidney disease. CKD is most common
among people aged 65 or older and is slightly more common in women. It substantially impacts certain ethnic
groups more than others and is associated with a huge financial burden. End-Stage Kidney Disease (ESKD) is
treated with dialysis or a kidney transplantation. CKD and ESKD are very detrimental and expensive illnesses,
demanding creative therapeutic interventions to enable better management and enhanced clinical outcomes. Toward
this goal, agents from various novel drug classes showed promising safety and efficacy in patients with
varying severity of CKD in several phase 2 studies. This concise review will shed light on the clinical trials of
runcaciguat, cotadutide, osocimab, and Endothelin Receptor Antagonists (ERAs) in patients with CKD and/or
ESKD. These drugs were retrieved following surveying the Clinical Trial database as well as the Pubmed
database, both maintained by the US National Library of Medicine.
Biological Evaluation and Computational Modelling Studies on N-acyl Hydrazone and 2,5-Substituted 1,3,4-Oxadiazole Derivatives as Non-toxic Antimicrobial Agents
Authors: Giray Betül , Kaya Nil , Fiabane Martina , Buyuk Ayse Seyma , Küçük Hatice Başpinar , Sardas Semra , Mori Mattia
Published: February 2025

Introduction:

The increasing use of antibiotics coupled with the lack of innovative and effective
antimicrobial agents has increased the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) worldwide. To overcome
the AMR-associated prolonged disease duration and increased mortality rates, new antimicrobial agents
are in high demand. In this context, hydrazone and oxadiazole derivatives are endowed with remarkable biocidal
activity, becoming profitable scaffolds in the design of antimicrobial candidates.

Method:

In this study, the antimicrobial effects of N-acyl hydrazones 1-15 and 2,5-substituted 1,3,4-
oxadiazoles 16-27 against Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213, Bacillus subtilis
ATCC 6633, and clinically isolated Shigella sonnei, Klebsiella pneumoniae, and Candida albicans were
evaluated. For this purpose, Kirby-Bauer disc diffusion and MIC tests were carried out, indicating that most of
these compounds were active against tested microorganisms. Particularly, several compounds proved active
against E. coli, whereas S. aureus showed higher resistance. The genotoxic potential of most active compounds
was determined by in vitro alkaline comet assay, and they were found to be non-toxic at studied concentrations.

Results:

Finally, molecular docking and dynamics (MD) studies identified four compounds as potential inhibitors
of bacterial DNA gyrase B (GyrB).

Conclusion:

Further exploration of molecular determinants revealed favourable drug-like properties, highlighting
the potential of these molecules for subsequent hit-to-lead optimization studies.
Causal Mediation Analysis of the Effect of Dietary Habits on Sleep Apnea Risk
Authors: Yingying-Li  , Wu Liang , Wenbo-Chen
Published: February 2025

Objective:

Diet is a modifiable factor that influences several chronic diseases, making
lifelong dietary interventions critically important for reducing disease risk. Hence, this study
aims to assess the potential causal relationship between diet and sleep apnea (SA).

Methods:

We analyzed genome-wide association study (GWAS) data from approximately
450,000 individuals, focusing on 8 dietary intakes and GWAS statistics for 249 metabolites from
the UK Biobank. Sleep apnea-related phenotypic data from 16,761 participants were sourced
from the FinnGen Biobank. Furthermore, we conducted a series of two-sample Mendelian Randomization
(two-sample MR) to explore the causality between diet and SA. Sensitivity analyses
were conducted to assess the robustness of the two-sample MR results, and reverse MR analysis
was performed to examine potential reverse causality. Multivariate MR (MVMR) analysis and
mediation effect estimation were employed to evaluate the mediating roles of metabolites.

Results:

Two-sample MR analyses revealed significant causal associations between bread intake
(OR=0.56, 95% CI 0.35–0.89, P =0.014), cheese intake (OR=0.67, 95% CI 0.50–0.89, P
=0.006), and dried fruit intake (OR=0.61, 95% CI 0.39–0.95, P =0.029) with SA. Reverse MR
analysis indicated a causal effect of SA on dried fruit intake (P < 0.05). Univariate MR analyses
further identified significant causal effects of bread and cheese intakes on 2 and 32 metabolites,
respectively (P < 0.05). Subsequent MVMR analysis demonstrated direct causal effects of bread
and cheese intake on SA, independent of metabolite mediation (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the mediating
effect of cheese intake on SA through glucose was estimated at 0.023 (90% CI 0.01–
0.046), whereas other modeled mediation effects were not statistically significant.

Conclusion:

The MR analysis in this study offers genetic evidence indicating that heightened
genetic susceptibility to cheese and bread intake potentially reduces SA risk. These findings underscore
and validate the significance of diet in preventing SA.