bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Complex Movement on the Excitability of the Ipsilateral Primary Motor Cortex and Spinal Motoneurons Contralateral to the Movement: A Comparison of Ball Rotation and Grasping Tasks with Equivalent Muscle Activity
Authors: Kosuge Rin , Sukegawa Takehiro , Akaiwa Mayu , Shibata Eriko , Kurokawa Ryo , Sugawara Yasushi , Kudoh Satoshi , Matsuda Yuya , Saito Hidekazu , Sasaki Takeshi , Sugawara Kazuhiro
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Unilateral hand movements alter the excitability of the ipsilateral primary motor cortex (ipsi-M1) and contralateral spinal motoneurons. Although this excitability increases during complex, high muscle-activity movements, few studies have examined the excitability of ipsi-M1 and contralateral spinal motoneurons during complex movements while accounting for muscle activity. This study investigated the excitability of ipsi-M1 and contralateral spinal motoneurons during complex and simple movement tasks with comparable muscle activity between the two tasks. Methods: Nineteen healthy adult volunteers participated in this study. The ball rotation task was set as the complex movement task (BR condition), and the grasping task was set as the simple movement task (grasp condition), with peak muscle activity values comparable between the tasks. Motor-evoked potentials (MEPs) and F-waves were recorded from the abductor pollicis brevis muscle contralateral to the movement during task execution. The excitability parameters of ipsi-M1 and contralateral spinal motoneurons were calculated by dividing the MEP, F-wave persistence, and F/M amplitude values recorded in each condition by the corresponding values recorded at rest. These parameters were compared across the rest, BR, and grasp conditions. Results: All the excitability parameters of ipsi-M1 and contralateral spinal motoneurons increased during both the BR and grasp conditions compared with the rest condition but did not differ significantly between the BR and grasp conditions. Conclusions: The excitability of ipsi-M1 and contralateral spinal motoneurons was strongly influenced by the amount of muscle activity but not by the complexity of the movement.
The Longitudinal Relationship Between Self-Esteem, Life Satisfaction, and Depressive and Anxiety Symptoms Among Chinese Adolescents: Within- and Between-Person Effects
Authors: Han Zongqiao , Chen Shuai , Zhou Yan , Liu Yanling , Guo Cheng
Published: February 2025

Adolescents are especially vulnerable to experiencing depression and anxiety. This longitudinal study, from within- and between-person perspectives, explores how self-esteem relates to depressive and anxiety symptoms in Chinese adolescents and identifies the mediating factors impacting this relationship. Data were collected from 1025 junior and high school students in Southwestern China at three points over an 18-month period. This study utilized both traditional and random-intercept cross-lagged panel models to understand the dynamic developmental relationships. The general occurrence of depressive and anxiety symptoms increased longitudinally, with a more pronounced upward trend among female students. Between-person level analyses indicated bidirectional associations among self-esteem, life satisfaction, and depressive and anxiety symptoms. Moreover, life satisfaction emerged as a significant mediator. At the within-person level, self-esteem uniquely predicted both life satisfaction and subsequent depressive and anxiety symptoms. This study clarifies the longitudinal interplay between these constructs. Self-esteem, which denotes internal self-assessments, and life satisfaction, which denotes external evaluations of life, both significantly buffer the emergence of depressive and anxiety symptoms.
Role of Epigenetics in Chronic Lung Disease
Authors: Ritzmann Felix , Brand Michelle , Bals Robert , Wegmann Michael , Beisswenger Christoph
Published: February 2025

Epigenetics regulates gene expression and thus cellular processes that underlie the pathogenesis of chronic lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). Environmental factors (e.g., air pollution, smoking, infections, poverty), but also conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux, induce epigenetic changes long before lung disease is diagnosed. Therefore, epigenetic signatures have the potential to serve as biomarkers that can be used to identify younger patients who are at risk for premature loss of lung function or diseases such as IPF. Epigenetic analyses also contribute to a better understanding of chronic lung disease. This can be used directly to improve therapies, as well as for the development of innovative drugs. Here, we highlight the role of epigenetics in the development and progression of chronic lung disease, with a focus on DNA methylation.
Exploring Self-Reported Physical Activity Levels and Physical Fitness in Italian Children: A Mediation and Moderation Analysis
Authors: Monacis Domenico , Sannicandro Italo , Colella Dario
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Skill-related physical fitness is a crucial factor influencing health status during childhood. Starting from the lack of knowledge in the field of skill-related physical fitness and levels of physical activity in Southern Italy, this cross-sectional study aims to explore the mediating and moderating influence of PAL on the association between BMI and skill-related physical fitness. Methods: The sample (N = 387 students; male = 196, age = 12.2 ± 0.87 yrs; female = 191, age = 12.3 ± 0.93) was recruited from schools in the Apulia Region. The assessment included standing long jump (SLJ), 2 kg medicine ball throw (MBT) and 10 × 5 shuttle run (10 × 5) as indicators of physical fitness, and a self-report for measuring daily physical activity (PAL). A 2 (gender) × 3 (BMI cutoff)-factorial ANOVA was performed to highlight differences between groups for physical fitness components and PAL. Then, mediation and moderation models were created, establishing BMI as the independent variable, physical fitness tests as dependent variables, and PAL as the mediator and moderator variable. Results: The findings showed higher physical fitness and PAL in male and female normal-weight groups than in those who were overweight and obese. Mediation analysis revealed that higher PAL improved performance in SLJ (b = 0.091, p < 0.01, R2 = 17.16%), led to a modest understanding of the variation in MBT (ΔR2 = 0.026), and significantly reduced the time spent to perform 10 × 5 (p < 0.0, R2 = 10.72%). Conclusions: Despite the obtained results, future research is needed to further understand the association between physical fitness and the sociocultural determinants of physical activity to guide institutional policies and interventions to prevent poor health habits.
Numerical Homogenization Method Applied to Evaluate Effective Converse Flexoelectric Coefficients
Authors: Hamdia Khader M.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a numerical homogenization method for estimating the effective converse flexoelectric coefficients. A 2D model made of two-phase composite is developed at the microscale in consideration of a representative volume element that includes a continuous flexoelectric fiber embedded in a pure elastic matrix. In the implementation, the constitutive equations are derived from the electromechanical enthalpy accounting for higher-order coupling terms. Electric boundary conditions associated with an inhomogeneous electric field are imposed, allowing the approximation of the generated mechanical strains and stresses. Accordingly, the numerical simulations yield the overall equivalent converse flexoelectricity tensor for the longitudinal, transversal, and shear couplings. The results showed that the composite undergoes an obvious straining, which creates actuation due to the converse effect. The components of the homogenized longitudinal and transverse coefficients were found to be dependent on the volume fraction and elastic properties of the constituents.
The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Influenza Vaccination Coverage Among Young U.S. Children: A Socioeconomic Analysis
Authors: Saleh Tawny , Shirazi Mina , Cambou Mary C. , Nielsen-Saines Karin
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted healthcare delivery across the United States (U.S.), including childhood vaccine administration. This study analyzed data from the National Health Interview Survey (NHIS), a nationally representative survey of the U.S. population, assessing trends and predictors of influenza vaccination uptake among children ≤ 5 years before and amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Influenza vaccination coverage declined significantly, from 56% in 2019 to 46% in 2022 (p < 0.001). Age-specific declines were notable, with rates dropping among one-year-olds from 68% to 53%, two-year-olds from 63% to 49%, and infants from 31% to 24% (p < 0.001). Logistic regression revealed African American children had lower odds of vaccination compared to non-Hispanic White children (OR = 0.70, p < 0.001), while Asian children had higher odds (OR = 1.32, p = 0.018). Uninsured children were less likely to be vaccinated than insured children (OR = 0.71, p = 0.022). Regional analysis showed the Northeast had the highest vaccination rates (60% in 2019, 56% in 2022), while the South had the lowest (52% in 2019, 41% in 2022). These findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to address socioeconomic disparities and improve influenza vaccine uptake in young children in the U.S.
Design and Basic Aerodynamic Analysis of a Drone-Suspended Transport Container for Safe Biological Sample Transport
Authors: Vachálek Ján , Habara Marek , Nyeky Daniel
Published: February 2025

The article addresses the issue of selecting the initial shape for a drone’s suspended transport container and its impact on the final aerodynamic properties during the flight, specifically aerodynamic drag, based on the simulated pressure differences generated by the suspended container. The motivation arose from the project ITMS2014+:313011 ATR9 titled ‘Research and Development of the Applicability of Autonomous Flying Vehicles in the Fight Against the COVID-19 Pandemic’. The project deals with the transport of biological samples from hospitals to specialized laboratories. These samples, which could be contaminated, necessitated the development of a specialized container meeting all safety criteria. Besides predefined parameters such as the maximum weight of the container, transport speed, dimensions of the internal standardized module for transporting hospital samples, and compliance with required IP (Ingress Protection) and IK (Impact Protection) standards, many other challenges related to the final design solution of the transport container had to be addressed. One such challenge was the fundamental question of what shape the transport container should have, which significantly influences the overall design and construction of the transport module. We attempted to solve this question responsibly and professionally and thoroughly substantiate our results with appropriate simulations in selected simulation software. The outcome was as expected, but it was necessary to adequately justify and support the choice of the shape of the transport container in the context of the project’s resolution. The results are universal and can be applied to other designs for shapes of transport containers in the future or by other researchers working on similar projects.
Cardiopulmonary Functional Profiles in Cancer Therapy-Related Cardiac Dysfunction Among Patients with Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma
Authors: Bursacovschi Daniela , Revenco Valeriu , Robu Maria , Arnaut Oleg
Published: February 2025

Background: Non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) is associated with significant cardiovascular risks due to treatment-related toxicities, including cancer therapy-related cardiac dysfunction (CTRCD). While multimodality imaging, particularly echocardiography, is pivotal in monitoring cardiac function, the prognostic role of cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) in predicting CTRCD remains underexplored. Methods: The prospective study enrolled 127 NHL patients, 72 men (56.7%) and 55 women (43.3%), with a median age of 62 years (range 34–83 years). The patients were assessed before initiating antitumor treatment and at six months follow-up using echocardiography and cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Results: Asymptomatic CTRCD occurred in 14.2% of NHL patients at six months of treatment. Patients with CTRCD exhibited significantly lower median work rates, volume of oxygen (VO2) at the anaerobic threshold, and O2 consumption efficiency, reflecting compromised metabolic and functional performance. Baseline peak oxygen consumption (VO2 peak) positively correlated with left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) at six months, while VO₂ peak < 14 mL/kg/min was negatively associated with LVEF. Conclusions: Asymptomatic CTRCD was identified in 14.2% of NHL patients at six months, with lower work rates, VO2 at the anaerobic threshold, and O2 consumption efficiency, indicating impaired performance. Baseline peak oxygen consumption correlated positively with LVEF, highlighting CPET’s potential for early CTRCD risk assessment.
Targeting Ventricular Arrhythmias in Non-Ischemic Patients: Advances in Diagnosis and Treatment
Authors: Stanciulescu Laura Adina , Dorobantu Maria , Vatasescu Radu
Published: February 2025

Ventricular arrhythmias (VAs) in non-ischemic cardiomyopathy (NICM) present significant clinical challenges due to their diverse etiologies and complex arrhythmogenic substrates, which differ from those in ischemic heart disease. Recent advancements in imaging, electrophysiological mapping, and ablative therapy have improved the management of these arrhythmias. This review examines the spectrum of NICM subtypes, discussing their pathophysiology, prevalence, genetic determinants, and associated arrhythmias. It also explores contemporary ablative techniques, including epicardial, bipolar, and irrigated approaches, as well as emerging modalities such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT). The role of novel technologies, including high-resolution mapping and artificial intelligence, is considered in refining diagnosis and treatment. This article provides a comprehensive overview of current management strategies and discusses future directions in the treatment of VAs in NICM patients.
Designing Performance-Based Professional Development: Stakeholder Views on Essential Competencies and Approaches
Authors: Howell Heather , Bhatia Aakanksha , O’Dwyer Eowyn P. , Kevelson Marisol , Mikeska Jamie N. , Cisterna Dante
Published: February 2025

Research has consistently shown that the instructional skills, or competencies, that teachers bring to the table influence the opportunities students have to learn. Teachers build those competencies over time, often through professional development (PD); however, they often cite PD as insufficient, in part because it can focus on the wrong competencies. In a series of focus groups, we systematically examined which teaching competencies teachers, teacher leaders, school administrators, and professional learning leaders identified as most critical for future PD efforts supporting K-8 mathematics and science teachers. In addition, we explored their stated rationales and their vision for how digital performance-based PD might support development of those competencies. Participants identified four competencies as most critical: (1) collaborative problem-based learning; (2) differentiation; (3) promoting engagement; and (4) eliciting student ideas. Rationales included ways in which they are essential for students, difficult to implement, and have insufficient support at present. Participants preferred the idea of digital and interactive role-playing PD over more traditional approaches, also citing the need for some agency in controlling the PD parameters and for the availability of rich feedback. Implications include the need for future research to incorporate stakeholder voice to close the gap between what is needed and what is provided and for follow-up studies to target a larger and more representative sample.
Patterns of Soil Microbial Residue Carbon Accumulation in Different Plantation Forest Types: A Case Study from Beijing
Authors: Kang Xixian , Li Suyan , Sun Xiangyang , Wang Chenchen , Li Jie , Xu Jinhang
Published: February 2025

Microbial residual carbon (MRC) is a key component of soil organic carbon (SOC) and crucial for SOC stabilization, contributing to the formation of a stable soil carbon pool. However, the accumulation patterns of MRC in different plantation forest types remain unclear. In this study, based on the principle of site condition similarity and supported by field investigations, soils from Populus alba, Salix matsudana Koidz, and Pinus tabuliformis in Beijing were selected as the research objects. The physical and chemical properties of the soils, as well as the microbial residual carbon content, were measured. Correlation analysis and redundancy analysis (RDA) were then conducted to explore the accumulation patterns of microbial residual carbon across different plantation forest types and to identify the factors influencing these patterns. Results showed that fungal residue carbon, bacterial residue carbon, and total MRC were highest in Populus alba, followed by Salix matsudana Koidz and Pinus tabuliformis. The contributions of fungal, bacterial, and total MRC to SOC were greatest in Populus alba, followed by Pinus tabuliformis and Salix matsudana Koidz. In this study, Populus alba were found to be more effective in sequestering microbial residue carbon. Fungal residue carbon content and its contribution to SOC were greater than bacterial residue carbon in all plantation types. Soil organic carbon, nitrate nitrogen, and available potassium were significantly correlated with both MRC content and its contribution to SOC. These findings deepen our understanding of microbial-driven soil carbon accumulation and provide a foundation for enhancing the carbon sequestration potential of plantation forests.
Carbon and Nitrogen Content and CO2 Efflux from Coarse Woody Debris of Norway Spruce, Black Alder, and Silver Birch
Authors: Čiuldienė Dovilė , Vigricas Egidijus , Galdikaitė Greta , Stakėnas Vidas , Armolaitis Kęstutis , Varnagirytė-Kabašinskienė Iveta
Published: February 2025

Coarse woody debris (CWD) is an essential component in forest ecosystems, playing a significant role in enhancing biodiversity, soil formation, and nutrient cycling through decomposition processes. CWD also contributes to greenhouse gas fluxes, particularly through CO2 emissions. This study investigated the physical and chemical properties of CWD and the CO2 effluxes from CWD of different decay classes. For this study, a range of CWD—from recently dead to highly decomposed wood—of native tree species such as silver birch (Betula pendula Roth), black alder (Alnus glutinosa (L.) Gaertn.), and Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) H. Karst.) in hemiboreal forests were investigated. The findings showed that CWD properties significantly differed among tree species and CWD decay classes. Significant variations in wood density and total nitrogen (N) were observed in the early stages of CWD decay, with the highest values found for the deciduous tree species. The concentration of organic carbon (C) increased throughout the decomposition. The lowest CO2 efflux from CWD was found for spruce CWD from all decay classes and it was the highest for black alder and silver birch, especially for the 3rd and 4th decay classes. CO2 efflux was mainly influenced by the degree of decomposition, which was represented by the CWD decay class, followed by wood density and C content.
Seasonal Variations in the Growth and Physiology of Acer miaotaiense subsp. yangjuechi Fang et P. L. Chiu Seedlings Under Shading Treatments
Authors: Chen Taomei , Wang Zhiping , Guan Jingwen , Zhao Mingshui , Yu Lin , Zhou Xinyang , Xia Guohua
Published: February 2025

This study investigated the seasonal variations in photosynthetic characteristics and adaptation mechanisms of the endangered Acer miaotaiense subsp. yangjuechi Fang et P. L. Chiu under different shading treatments, offering theoretical insights and technical support for its relocation and conservation strategies. Five shading intensity treatments were established: full light (CK), 30% (T1), 50% (T2), 70% (T3), and 90% (T4). The growth and physiological conditions of 5-year-old A. miaotaiense subsp. yangjuechi seedlings were monitored across seasons. The findings revealed that plants grown under 70% shade had the best growth performance and leaf morphological indices. In summer, the levels of osmotic adjustment substances and peroxidase activity were the highest, whereas malondialdehyde (MDA) levels increased progressively throughout the season. Notably, superoxide dismutase activity exhibited an opposite trend to MDA. Proline and MDA contents were the highest under full light conditions and lowest under 70% shade, whereas soluble sugars and starch showed the reverse pattern. Chlorophyll content and photosystem II efficiency peaked under 70% shade, with the highest net photosynthetic rate and light saturation point observed in the 70% and 90% shade treatments. A comprehensive evaluation suggests that 70% shade is more conducive to the normal growth and development of A. miaotaiense subsp. yangjuechi seedlings.
Integration of Soil Moisture Factor into Light-Use Efficiency Models Improves Modeling Impact of Water Stresses on Gross Primary Production
Authors: Lv Yiming , He Wei , Liu Jinxiu , Chen Hui
Published: February 2025

Soil moisture (SM) is evidenced to dominate the interannual variability and trend of regional gross primary production (GPP) in the context of increasing drought and heat extremes, yet only a few light-use efficiency (LUE)-based GPP models consider SM stresses in modeling practice. This study utilized high-resolution GPP observational data collected from 16 flux tower sites in the US and Europe, integrating soil moisture and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) data to optimize the parameters of two typical LUE models (TL-LUE and VPM) and perform sensitivity analyses to assess the impact of SM and other moisture indicators on model performance. Our findings reveal that incorporating soil moisture (SM) significantly enhances GPP simulations, particularly in grassland ecosystems, where SM greatly improves model performance. However, in water-stressed forests, alternative indicators like VPD proved more effective, highlighting the challenges of modeling GPP in these ecosystems and the need for refined approaches. The results underscore the importance of adopting ecosystem-specific strategies when enhancing LUE models to better capture the impacts of water stress. This study provides valuable insights into improving GPP simulations under increasing droughts and climate change, emphasizing the necessity of tailored approaches for different ecosystem types.
FDD-YOLO: A Novel Detection Model for Detecting Surface Defects in Wood
Authors: Wang Bo , Wang Rijun , Chen Yesheng , Yang Chunhui , Teng Xianglong , Sun Peng
Published: February 2025

Wood surface defect detection is a critical step in wood processing and manufacturing. To address the performance degradation caused by small targets and multi-scale features in wood surface defect detection, a novel deep learning model is proposed in this study, FDD-YOLO, specifically designed for this task. In the feature extraction stage, the C2f module and the funnel attention (FA) mechanisms are integrated into the design of the C2f-FA module to enhance the model’s ability to extract features of wood surface defects of various sizes. Additionally, the Dual Spatial Pyramid Pooling-Fast (DSPPF) module is developed, and the Context Self-attention Module (CSAM) is introduced to address the limitations of traditional max pooling methods, which often overlook global contextual information when extracting local features, thereby improving the detection of small-scale wood defects. In the feature fusion stage, a Dual Cross-scale Weighted Feature-fusion (DCWF) module is proposed to fuse shallow, deep, and cross-scale features through a weighted summation approach, effectively addressing the challenge of scale variation in wood surface defects. Experimental results demonstrate that the proposed FDD-YOLO model significantly improves detection performance, increasing the mAP of the baseline model YOLOv8 from 78% to 82.3%, a substantial enhancement of 4.3 percentage points. Furthermore, FDD-YOLO outperforms other mainstream defect detection models in terms of detection accuracy. The proposed model demonstrates significant potential for industrial applications by improving detection accuracy, enhancing production efficiency, and reducing material waste, thereby advancing quality control in wood processing and manufacturing.
Native Microbial Consortia: A Sustainable Strategy for Improving the Quality of Forest Seedlings in the Peruvian Amazon
Authors: Amaringo-Cordova Luiz Paulo , Mori-Montero Cesar , Padilla-Castro Cesar , Ocaña-Reyes Jimmy A. , Riveros-Lizana Christian , Camacho-Villalobos Alina Alexandra , Solórzano-Acosta Richard
Published: February 2025

Forest plantations represent an alternative to reduce timber extraction pressure in the Amazonian forests. In order to tolerate the hostile field conditions of deforested areas, high-quality seedlings are required. This study aimed to find the optimal dose of a native microbial consortium (NMC), which enhances seedling quality indicators, in three forest species at nursery phase. A completely randomized design (3 × 5) was used. Factor 1: Bolaina blanca (Guazuma crinita Mart.), Capirona (Calycophyllum spruceanum Benth. Hook. f.), and Marupa (Simarouba amara Aubl.). Factor 2: Incremental doses of 0, 160, 320, 480, and 640 mL NMC per plant. The nursery survival (%), robustness index, root height/length ratio, shoot–root index, Dickson Quality Index (DQI), Nitrogen (%), Phosphorus (%), and Potassium (%) content in tissues were analyzed. Statistical analyses consisted of two-way ANOVA per variable and correlation analysis. The results indicated that increasing doses of NMC did not improve nursery survival for any species; did not decrease the robustness index, plant height/root length ratio, or the shoot–root index for any species; and did not increase the DQI, P%, or K% for any species; however, they did increase the N% for all species. In conclusion, the incremental dose of 160 mL was chosen for increasing the N% without affecting nursery survival.
Putative Biomarkers for Prognosis, Epithelial-to-Mesenchymal Transition, and Drug Response in Cell Lines Representing Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Progression
Authors: Hamoui Mohamad Z. , Rizvi Shuaa , Arnouk Hilal , Roberts Cai M.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is the most common form of head and neck cancer and accounts for over 50,000 new cancer cases annually in the United States. The survival rates are markedly different for localized OSCC versus metastatic disease, for which the five-year survival rate is only 39%. Depending on its pathology and stage at diagnosis, the treatment may involve surgery, radiation, targeted therapy, or conventional chemotherapy. However, there is an unmet need for reliable biomarkers to predict the treatment response or link therapeutic efficacy to tumor progression. We sought to assemble a panel of OSCC tumor progression biomarkers that correlated with the epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and the response to cytotoxic drugs. Methods: We used four cell lines that represented the stepwise progression from normal oral mucosa to dysplastic, invasive, and metastatic OSCC lesions and performed a quantitative analysis via Western blot for putative markers. EMT phenotypes were assessed using wound healing migration assays. Live cell imaging was used to assess drug effectiveness over time. Results: The expression of stratifin, a tumor suppressor gene, is inversely correlated with both tumor progression steps and the expression of the EMT marker N-cadherin. Conversely, the E-cadherin and fibronectin expression was markedly decreased in the advanced-stage OSCC lines. In addition, metastatic Detroit 562 cells exhibited resistance to cell death following docetaxel treatment and showed clear migratory behavior. Conclusions: We describe a molecular signature of advanced and drug-resistant OSCC tumors which encompasses multiple markers, warranting further investigation to establish their utility in predicting clinical outcomes and guiding the treatment options for patients afflicted with oral cancer.
Advances in Monitoring Crop and Soil Nutrient Status: Proximal and Remote Sensing Techniques
Authors: Bulacio Fischer Pedro Tomas , Carella Alessandro , Massenti Roberto , Fadhilah Raudhatul , Lo Bianco Riccardo
Published: February 2025

Soil and water pollution caused by excessive use of fertilizers and resource scarcity are critical issues in modern horticulture. Although laboratory tests are reliable, they take time and use chemical reagents that must be disposed of and complex protocols. Monitoring plant nutrient status through technologies that allow continuous and rapid assessment is crucial for precise resource management. Several proximal and remote sensors that use different physico-chemical principles to monitor plant nutrient status are available nowadays. However, these technologies still have important operative and structural limitations that must be overcome. The aim of this review is to summarize the current status and latest developments in proximal and remote sensors capable of monitoring plant and soil nutrients, focusing on sensor types, principles, applications, and their strengths and weaknesses. Electrochemical proximal sensors allow continuous monitoring of nutrients in the plant sap or in the soil solution but work on a single spot basis. Instruments based on optical sensors allow immediate measurements and quick analysis, but do not work on a continuous basis. On the other hand, remote sensors, such as drone-mounted cameras and satellite systems, are based on large-area imaging and can be used to estimate crop nutrient status by processing images at different wavelengths. Finally, combining proximal and remote techniques may be needed to achieve very accurate monitoring of plant and nutrient status.
Comparative Assessment of Phytochemical Content and Antioxidant Activities in Different Parts of Pyrus ussuriensis Cultivars
Authors: Uy Neil Patrick , Ku Jajung , Lee Doo-Hee , Nam Sang June , Lee Sanghyun
Published: February 2025

Pyrus ussuriensis, also known as Ussurian pear, is a deciduous tree from the Rosaceae family. This study examined the phytochemical profiles and antioxidant activities of different parts (1-year-old stem, 2-year-old stem, and leaves) of Pyrus ussuriensis Maxim. and P. ussuriensis var. ovoidea. The analysis included measurements of total polyphenol content (TPC), total flavonoid content (TFC), and evaluations of 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+) radical scavenging activities. Quantitative analyses were conducted using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC/UV). The analysis with one-way ANOVA indicated significant differences in TPC and TFC across tissues, with the stems exhibiting the highest TPC and the leaves showing the highest TFC in both P. ussuriensis and P. ussuriensis var. ovoidea. Among the examined structures, the stems exhibited the highest TPC, whereas the leaves exhibited the highest TFC in both P. ussuriensis and P. ussuriensis var. ovoidea. P. ussuriensis var. ovoidea displayed stronger antioxidant activity than P. ussuriensis. LC-MS/MS detected 18 phytochemicals, with chlorogenic acid being the most abundant, especially in leaf extracts, as confirmed using HPLC/UV analyses. This cultivar-based comparison highlights a tissue-specific distribution of bioactive compounds, with leaves primarily contributing to high flavonoid content and stems to polyphenolic content. Collectively, these findings provide valuable insights into the rich phytochemical diversity and antioxidant potential of P. ussuriensis cultivars, highlighting their versatility in various fields.
Impact of Elevated Temperature and Solar Radiation on Broccoli (Brassica oleraceae var. italica Plenck) Cultivation
Authors: Koularmanis Konstantinos , Tsouvaltzis Pavlos , Siomos Anastasios
Published: February 2025

In order to study the effects of emerging climate change on the cultivation of broccoli (Brassica oleraceae var. italica Plenck), transplants of three F1 hybrids (‘Cigno’, ‘Principe’, and ‘Domino’ F1) were transplanted on three successive dates (7 June, 30 June, and 4 August) at the Experimental Farm of the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Greece. The last planting date (4 August) corresponds to the most common establishment time for the crop in the area, while the other two dates correspond to periods with higher temperatures. The number of leaves per plant was recorded on a weekly basis during the growing period, while the plant height, the number of head leaves, the number of lateral shoots, the head diameter, and the weight and quality of the head were recorded at harvest. The results showed that the average temperature and solar radiation during the first two growing periods (GP1 and GP2) were higher by 4.4–5.4 °C and 32–75%, respectively, compared to the third one (GP3). The consequences of the higher temperature were the shortening of the growing period between transplanting and harvest by 5–6 days in ‘Cigno’ F1 and its extension by 3–18 days in the ‘Principe’ and ‘Domino’ F1 ones, as well as the increase in the quantity of water required through irrigation by 14–61%. Higher temperatures induced a significant deterioration of the head quality and a reduction in marketable production by 42–92%.
Policy Measures to Lead Sustainable Development of Agriculture Catchment: Socio-Hydrology Modeling Insights
Authors: Roobavannan Mahendran , Kandasamy Jaya , Vigneswaran Saravanamuthu
Published: February 2025

Achieving sustainable development in agricultural catchments requires well-designed policy measures. This study examines the intricate interactions between social dynamics and hydrological processes within agricultural systems to propose targeted policy interventions. By employing socio-hydrology models that integrate socio-economic and hydrological data, the research provides valuable insights into the feedback loops and interdependencies that influence catchment sustainability. In this study, we find that policies on population management should aim to balance natural growth rates with the carrying capacity of the basin. Strategies such as education, healthcare access, and family planning can help manage demographic pressures. Migration policies should consider the economic and environmental impacts of population influx and support balanced regional development to distribute the demographic pressures more evenly. Wage growth should be aligned with economic productivity to prevent unemployment and inequality. Policies that promote equitable wage structures and enhance labor mobility between sectors can mitigate disparities. The findings emphasize the necessity of adaptive policies that address both environmental and societal factors, advocating for interdisciplinary approaches in water resource management and agricultural policy development. This study also highlights the pivotal role of technological innovations and the societal values and norms that shape sustainability and resilience in agricultural catchments.
Experiences of ‘Indirect’ Illness in Family Caregivers of Chronically Ill and Older Adults: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Bonacaro Antonio , Cosentino Chiara , Collaro Concetta , Gandini Maria Chiara , La Sala Rachele , Artioli Giovanna , Cervantes Camacho Victoria
Published: February 2025

The care of chronically ill and older adults affects families in terms of physical, emotional, relational, and social impact; the functioning of the family; and an alteration in family dynamics. This study aimed to evaluate the experiences of family caregivers of older patients in depth. A qualitative study was conducted, consisting of twenty-four narrative interviews with caregivers of chronically ill and older adults, consisting of twenty-three women and one man. The caregivers were all close relatives of the patients. The main results were as follows: (i) caregiving is predominantly performed by females; (ii) the caregiver experiences an ‘indirect’ illness; (iii) the family undergoes changes in roles, responsibilities, and relationships; (iv) support needs emerge, especially those of a social, family, work, and economic nature; and (v) resources are also activated, linked to the presence or absence of self-care. Illnesses directly impact the primary caregiver, but they also have repercussions on the entire family unit, which may activate coping strategies or lead to breakdown. It is crucial to accurately monitor the new family dynamics in order to find suitable solutions to support the family of chronically ill and older patients, underscoring the importance of work in this area.
HPV Infection and Oral Microbiota: Interactions and Future Implications
Authors: Xia Qingqing , Pierson Sarah
Published: February 2025

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a leading cause of mucosal cancers, including the increasing incidence of HPV-related head and neck cancers. The oral microbiota—a diverse community of bacteria, fungi, and viruses—play a critical role in oral and systemic health. Oral microbiota dysbiosis is increasingly linked to inflammation, immune suppression, and cancer progression. Recent studies have highlighted a complex interaction between HPV and oral microbiota, suggesting this interplay influences viral persistence, immune response and the tumor microenvironment. These interactions hold significant implications for disease progression, clinical outcomes, and therapeutic approaches. Furthermore, the oral microbiota has emerged as a promising biomarker for HPV detection and disease progress assessment. In addition, probiotic-based treatments are gaining attention as an innovative approach for preventing or treating HPV-related cancers by modulating the microbial environment. In this review, current research on the interaction between HPV and oral microbiota is provided, their clinical implications are explored, and the future potential for utilizing microbiota for diagnostic and therapeutic innovations in HPV-associated cancers is discussed.
Targeting TRPC-5 Channel Inhibition to Improve Penile Vascular Function in Erectile Dysfunction
Authors: El Assar Mariam , García-Gómez Borja , La Fuente José M. , Alonso-Isa Manuel , Martínez-Salamanca Juan I. , Fernández Argentina , Sosa Patricia , Romero-Otero Javier , Rodríguez-Mañas Leocadio , Angulo Javier
Published: February 2025

Canonical transient receptor potential (TRPC) channels contribute to calcium homeostasis, which is involved in penile vascular contractility and erectile dysfunction (ED) pathophysiology. We evaluated the impact of TRPC5 inhibition on endothelial function in penile vascular tissue from aging rats and ED patients and its effect on the relaxant efficacy of PDE5 inhibitors. TRPC inhibitor-induced endothelial and neurogenic relaxations were evaluated in corpus cavernosum (RCC) from a rat model of aging-related ED and in human penile resistance arteries (HPRAs) and corpus cavernosum (HCC) from ED patients and organ donors (NoED). The TRPC5 inhibitor, AC1903, was more effective than TRPC3 and TRPC4 inhibitors in relaxing aged RCC and HCC and HPRA from ED patients. In addition to enhancing endothelial and neurogenic relaxations in RCC from aged animals, AC1903 improved endothelium-dependent relaxation in both HCC and HPRA from ED patients but not in tissues from NoED. Cavernosal expression of TRPC5 was not different between ED and NoED subjects. AC1903 potentiated relaxations to the PDE5 inhibitor, tadalafil, in HCC/HPRA from ED patients. TRPC5 inhibition improved penile vascular function in aged rats and patients with ED. TRPC5 inhibition could be a potential therapeutic target for ED, particularly when combined with PDE5 inhibitors to enhance treatment outcomes.
Semen Microbiome, Male Infertility, and Reproductive Health
Authors: Chatzokou Dimitra , Tsarna Ermioni , Davouti Efstathia , Siristatidis Charalampos S , Christopoulou Smaragdi , Spanakis Nikolaos , Tsakris Athanasios , Christopoulos Panagiotis
Published: February 2025

The semen microbiome, once believed to be sterile, is now recognized as a dynamic ecosystem containing a diverse range of microorganisms with potential implications for male fertility and reproductive health. We aimed to examine the relationship between the semen microbiome, male infertility, and reproductive outcomes, highlighting the transformative role of next generation sequencing techniques and bioinformatics in exploring this intricate interaction, and we present a critical review of the published literature on this issue. Current evidence suggests a complex association between the composition of the semen microbiome and male fertility, with certain bacterial genera, such as Lactobacillus and Prevotella that exert opposing effects on sperm quality and DNA integrity. In addition, the influence of the semen microbiome extends beyond natural fertility, affecting assisted reproductive technologies and pregnancy outcomes. Despite considerable progress, challenges remain in standardizing methodologies and interpreting findings. In conclusion, we identify the lack of a definitive management proposal for couples presenting with this phenomenon, and we underline the need for an algorithm and indicate the questions raised that point toward our goal for a strategy. Continued research is essential to clarify the role of the semen microbiome in male reproductive health and to advance the development of personalized fertility management approaches.
Sensitization to Horse Allergens—Molecular Analysis Based on the Results of Multiparameter Tests
Authors: Rosada Tomasz , Lis Kinga , Bartuzi Zbigniew , Ukleja-Sokołowska Natalia
Published: February 2025

The domestic horse is the third most common source of animal allergens. Currently, five equine allergens have been classified (Equ c 1, 2, 3, 4, 6). Despite the apparently low exposure to allergens, equine allergy is still of great clinical importance. The aim of the study was to analyze equine allergy based on the results of ImmunoCAP ISAC and Allergy Xplorer ALEX tests. The study was retrospective. A total of 1553 patients were analyzed. Immunological tests were performed using the ImmunoCAP ISAC and Allergy Xplorer ALEX systems. From all the results, those with a positive result for at least one horse allergen were selected for further analysis. Horse allergy was found in 9% of subjects by the ImmunoCAP ISAC and in 10% by the Allergy Xplorer ALEX system. In both tests, sIgE for Equ c 1 was most frequently found. Horse allergy was very often accompanied by allergy to other animals. Monosensitization to horse was found only in the ImmunoCAP ISAC tests (0.2% of the population). In the ImmunoCAP ISAC tests, a correlation was found between Equ c 1 and Can f 1, Can f 2, Can f 5, Fel d 1, Fel d 4, Mus m1 and Can f 3; with increasing sIgE concentrations for the allergen Equ c 1, the results for the remaining correlated allergens increased. Horse allergy is a common clinical problem. Equ c 1 is the major horse allergen. Monosensitization to horse is rare. The present study is the first to present analyses of sIgE concentrations for horse allergens.
The Crosstalk Between Endothelial Cells, Smooth Muscle Cells, and Macrophages in Atherosclerosis
Authors: Gong Sihe , Li Yanni , Yan Kaijie , Shi Zhonghong , Leng Jing , Bao Yimin , Ning Ke
Published: February 2025

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a chronic inflammatory vascular disease closely tied to cellular metabolism. Recent genome-wide association study data have suggested the significant roles of endothelial cells, smooth muscle cells, and macrophages in the regression and exacerbation of AS. However, the impact of cellular crosstalk and cellular metabolic derangements on disease progression in AS is vaguely understood. In this review, we analyze the roles of the three cell types in AS. We also summarize the crosstalk between the two of them, and the associated molecules and consequences involved. In addition, we emphasize potential therapeutic targets and highlight the importance of the three-cell co-culture model and extracellular vesicles in AS-related research, providing ideas for future studies.
Gene Therapy: An Historical Overview for Familial Hearing Loss
Authors: Guthrie O’neil W.
Published: February 2025

Gene therapy is a promising molecular approach for the management of familial hearing loss. This type of molecular therapy is the physical manifestation of genetic determinism—the notion that individual genes cause individual phenotypes. The current composition weaves through various branches of the biomedical sciences to uncover the molecular biologic premise for genetic determinism and the impetus behind gene therapy. Consequently, it is revealed that the underlying molecular biologic premise was scaffolded on successful observations from simple biologic assays that were devoid of the complexities of human disease biology. Furthermore, modern successful gene therapies are largely driven by commercial and academic incentives at the cost of scientific rigor. This poses several perverse challenges for patients, clinicians and the public at large. Issues concerning safety, efficacy, and ethics are far from resolved despite regulatory agency approvals, the media’s bias for gene therapy and the many lucrative investor positions. Lastly, the therapeutic claims regarding gene therapy are the most ambitious claims made within the hearing sciences. Therefore, scientists, clinicians, and patients must be equipped with the tools needed to appropriately consume and appraise such claims. These and other issues are also directly addressed, with the aim of providing a realistic sense of whether current human gene therapies are ready to be positioned within our routine clinical armamentarium against hearing loss.
Comparative Analysis of Fractals-Homogeneity-Entropy Algorithms Applied on a FEM Bridge Model to Identify Damage
Authors: Machorro-Lopez Jose M. , Valtierra-Rodriguez Martin , Perez-Quiroz Jose T. , Amezquita-Sanchez Juan P.
Published: February 2025

Vehicular bridges accumulate damage over time due to overloads and material degradation. Non-visible structural damage in such large structures poses a serious risk, as small defects in critical elements can rapidly grow, potentially leading to catastrophic failure. Therefore, implementing simple yet effective methods for damage identification within a structural health monitoring (SHM) system is crucial for ensuring bridge reliability. This study presents a systematic comparative analysis of multiple damage detection algorithms, including six different fractal dimensions (FDs), the homogeneity index (HI), and the Shannon entropy index (SEI). These methods are applied to a high-fidelity finite element method (FEM) model of the Rio Papaloapan Bridge (RPB), a cable-stayed structure, to detect and localize two different types of damage (deck and cable failures) with varying severities and positions. To enhance practical applicability, realistic conditions are simulated by introducing noise to the vibration signals collected from both the undamaged and damaged bridge scenarios while a moving load, simulating a vehicle, is crossing. The results indicate that the HI and SEI not only detected and localized all damage scenarios but also effectively distinguished between different levels of severity, making them highly promising for SHM applications. Additionally, two of the six FD algorithms successfully identified all damage cases with minimal variation from the healthy condition, demonstrating their potential utility. The findings presented in this study are consistent with previous experimental and real-world bridge assessments, reinforcing their validity for real-life applications.