bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electron Density and Compressibility in the Kitaev Model with a Spatially Modulated Phase in the Superconducting Pairing
Authors: Medina Cuy Fabián G. , Dolcini Fabrizio
Published: February 2025

A current flowing through a one-dimensional Kitaev chain induces a spatial modulation in its superconducting pairing, characterized by a wavevector Q, which is known to induce two types of topological phase transitions: one is the customary band topology transition between gapped phases, while the other is a Lifshitz transition related to the Fermi surface topology and leading to a gapless superconducting phase. We investigate the behavior of the electron density ρ and the compressibility κ across the two types of transitions, as a function of the model parameters. We find that the behavior of ρ as a function of Q and chemical potential μ enables one to infer the ground state phase diagram. Moreover, the analysis of the compressibility κ as a function of μ enables one to distinguish the two transitions: While κ exhibits a symmetric divergence across the band topology transition, it displays an asymmetric jump across the Lifshitz transition.
Identification of α-Glucosidase Inhibitors and Assessment of Human Safety from 491 Native Plant Species of Jeju Island
Authors: Kang Ho-Min , Kang Jin-Kyu , Lee Pomjoo , Hyun Chang-Gu
Published: February 2025

In contemporary society, obesity has become a critical public health issue driven by lifestyle modifications such as unhealthy dietary patterns, physical inactivity, and aging. Beyond its aesthetic implications, obesity is a significant etiological factor for metabolic disorders, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. With increasing emphasis on weight management and holistic health, the demand for slimming cosmetics has risen substantially. In particular, the formulation of natural-origin slimming cosmetic ingredients that facilitate lipolysis and improve dermal elasticity is being actively investigated, presenting a compelling balance of safety and efficacy. This study examined the bioactivities of 570 plant extracts sourced from Jeju Island to evaluate their potential as cosmetic raw materials. The α-glucosidase inhibitory activity was analyzed to determine their antidiabetic potential. Among the tested extracts, 18 species, including Rumex japonicus (IC50, 0.93 ± 0.21 μg/mL), Rhynchosia volubilis (IC50, 1.2 ± 0.16 μg/mL), and Arachniodes standishii (IC50, 4.88 ± 0.89 μg/mL), exhibited substantially lower IC50 values compared to the positive control, acarbose (IC50, 251.17 ± 22.67 μg/mL). These findings highlight the potential of these extracts as innovative α-glucosidase inhibitors, potentially serving as alternatives to conventional pharmacological agents. Additionally, the safety of the 18 extracts for topical application was assessed via cytotoxicity assays using human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells and primary skin irritation tests. The results indicated no cytotoxicity in HaCaT cells and no evidence of dermal irritation at concentrations deemed non-toxic to the cells. In summary, these 18 plant extracts from Jeju Island exhibit significant promise as multifunctional cosmetic ingredients, combining slimming properties through adipogenesis inhibition with skin-enhancing benefits.
COVID-19 Stigma and Resource Loss: Predicting Post-Traumatic Stress and Vaccine Support in Vietnam
Authors: Sattler David N. , Ngo Thai D. , Ngo Jennifer , Nguyen Cuong , Sattler Mehnaaz , Kulshum Ammaarah , Fernandez Marisa , Hackler Ruth , Tran Karlena
Published: February 2025

Public health officials reported increases in stigma, discrimination, and verbal and physical abuse during the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. This study, conducted in Vietnam, examined how stigma, fear of the virus, self-protective behaviors, and threats to and loss of resources during the pandemic were associated with post-traumatic stress and belief in vaccine effectiveness. Participants were 380 persons (237 women, 129 men, 14 unreported) who completed measures assessing demographics, stigma experienced during the pandemic, resource loss, fear about becoming infected with the virus, self-protective actions to avoid illness, post-traumatic stress, and belief in COVID-19 vaccination effectiveness. Hierarchical multiple regression showed post-traumatic stress was positively associated with COVID-19 stigma personal experience, minimizing the COVID-19 threat, personal characteristic and support resource loss, perceived susceptibility to illness, and fear of COVID-19. Vaccine support was positively associated with age, COVID-19 stigma personal experience, and self-protective behaviors to avoid illness, and negatively associated with number of people known who died due to the virus. The findings support the hypotheses and extend conservation of resources stress theory. The findings underscore the importance of promptly addressing stigma, enhancing public education, and addressing barriers to receiving the vaccine.
Color Mechanism Analysis and Origin Comparison of Pink-Purple Sapphires from Vietnam and Madagascar
Authors: Guo Qiurong , Li Pengyu , Wang Mingying , Zhao Siyi , Yang Sichun , Shi Guanghai
Published: February 2025

Extensive research has already been conducted on sapphires, yet there remains a notable absence of methods available to identify the provenance of pink-purple sapphires, particularly those originating from Vietnam and Madagascar. This study examined pink-purple sapphires from Vietnam and Madagascar by conducting basic gemological tests, microscopic observations, infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, UV–Vis–NIR spectroscopy, and LA ICP MS, while also drawing comparisons with pink-red corundum from other locations. In appearance, the Vietnamese samples have a foggy appearance and orange iridescence, while the Madagascan samples show a relatively strong purple hue. The color origin analysis reveals that the absorption peaks of the ultraviolet spectrum caused by Cr3+ in the yellow-green and blue-purple regions account for the pink color of the Vietnamese and Madagascan samples. The lower UV wavelength position of the two main peaks in the Madagascan samples, as compared to the Vietnamese ones, indicates that Fe3+ d–d transitions, as well as transitions between Fe2+—Ti4+ and Fe3+—Ti3+ ions, enhance blue light transmission and cause the samples to tend towards a purple hue. Regarding inclusions, the Vietnamese samples are characterized by white and blue bands, cloudy inclusions, and extensive yellow-orange staining, whereby the cloudy inclusions give them their special appearance, and their calcite and apatite inclusions indicate that they come from marble-type deposits. The presence of many small-grained zircon formations, especially clusters, in the Madagascan samples indicates that they come from alkaline basalt. Chemical analysis confirmed the origin of the samples from the two locations. Compared with the pink-red corundum of the same marble type (Myanmar and Yunnan, China), the Vietnamese samples have lower V, Mg, and Ga contents and a higher Fe content. Compared with the pink-red corundum of the high-iron type (Thailand, Cambodia, and Tanzania), the Madagascan samples have lower Fe and higher Ga contents overall. This study possesses considerable significance in tracing and identifying the origin of pink-purple sapphires.
A Dual Photoelectrode System for Solar-Driven Saltwater Electrolysis: Simultaneous Production of Chlorine and Hydrogen
Authors: Gao Yue , Li Na , Qi Xuan , Zhou Fujiang , Yan Hao , He Danfeng , Xia Wei , Zhang Yu
Published: February 2025

Chlorine plays an essential role in various industries, such as wastewater treatment, disinfection, plastics, and pharmaceuticals, contributing to a significant global demand. Traditional methods of chlorine production, including chemical reactions involving manganese dioxide, potassium chlorate, and potassium permanganate, as well as the electrolysis of saturated salt solutions, are associated with safety and efficiency concerns. This study introduces a novel approach for the photoelectrocatalytic production of chlorine gas through the oxidation of chloride ions in potassium chloride solutions using a dual semiconductor photoelectrode system composed of TiO2 and Cu2O. By harnessing solar energy, this system enables the concurrent, safe, and efficient production of both chlorine and hydrogen gases. The TiO2 photoelectrode is employed for chlorine production, while Cu2O is used for hydrogen generation. The dual photoelectrode system mimics the process of electrolytic seawater electrolysis, offering a promising alternative to conventional methods. Through linear sweep voltammetry, current–time tests, and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, we demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach, supported by a detailed analysis of the energy band structure. Additionally, the material’s characteristics were verified using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). This work not only provides a safer and more efficient method for chlorine production but also highlights the potential of solar-powered photoelectrocatalysis in large-scale applications. These findings point toward a sustainable and environmentally friendly direction for chlorine production under simulated seawater conditions, with significant implications for renewable energy-driven industrial processes.
The Genetic Diversity of the Invasive Species Lissachatina fulica in the Urban Area of Cali, Colombia
Authors: Castillo Andres , Rodríguez María C. , Franco Claudia M. , Giraldo Alan
Published: February 2025

The African giant snail, Lissachatina fulica (the Achatinidae family), is an invasive mollusk found in many countries across the Pacific, the Caribbean, Asia, and Latin America. Lissachatica fulica is known for its rapid dispersal and poses several ecosystem problems. It displaces native mollusk species and causes economic losses by damaging cultivated plants. This snail is also a public health concern as it can transmit the nematode Angiostrongylus cantonensis, leading to meningoencephalitis in humans. This study utilizes the 16S rRNA gene to examine the genetic variation in L. fulica in the city of Cali, located in southwestern Colombia. We identified two haplotypes, designated as C and D. Among the 578 samples analyzed, haplotype C was found in 11% of the samples, while haplotype D was present in 89%. Concerning demographic events in L. fulica, such as population expansions, contractions, and bottlenecks, the negative value of Tajima’s D index suggests that positive selection has favored certain alleles or haplotypes, reducing genetic variation. In conclusion, the clear dominance of haplotype D in most areas might indicate that haplotype D is either more prevalent or advantageous in these environments. However, further analysis would be needed to understand the reasons for this pattern (e.g., environmental, genetic, or social factors).
Distribution of Eukaryotic Environmental DNA in Water and Sediment from Offshore Petroleum Platforms in the Gulf of Thailand
Authors: Punnaruk Porntep , Tang Sureerat , Janpoom Sirithorn , Prasertlux Sirikan , Khamnamtong Bavornlak , Wimolsakcharoen Wuthiwong , Thitiphuree Tongchai , Getwech Chiratthakan , Dhanasin Phanachit , Klinbunga Sirawut , Jarayabhand Padermsak
Published: February 2025

Biomonitoring and environmental impact assessment of marine ecosystems are important for the effective management of petroleum platform activity. Eukaryote biodiversity in water and sediment near petroleum platforms in the Gulf of Thailand was surveyed using environmental DNA (eDNA) based on 18S ribosomal DNA variable region 4 (18S rDNA-V4), the full-length 18S rDNA gene (18S rDNA-FL), and cytochrome c oxidase subunit 1 (COI). Water and sediment samples were collected from three platforms. The water sample was also collected from a reference site located farther south, away from the platforms. Both 18S rDNA markers outperformed COI. A total of 1144 and 889 species were found in water and sediment when analyzed by 18S rDNA-V4, and 519 species were found in sediment when analyzed by 18S rDNA-FL. Only 99 species were found in water samples when analyzed by COI. Alpha-diversity (Shannon and Simpson Evenness) indices were significantly different in water (p < 0.05), but not in sediment (p > 0.05). Beta-diversity (PCoA and NDMS) revealed significant species components between different petroleum platforms (p < 0.01). Species distribution revealed biological connectivity between eukaryotes from different platforms suggesting the importance of platforms on ecological impacts. This study also illustrates the possible application of eDNA for monitoring ecological toxicity around petroleum platforms.
Unveiling Guyon’s Canal: Insights into Clinical Anatomy, Pathology, and Imaging
Authors: Saran Sonal , Reddy Pellauru Saavi , Shirodkar Kapil , Shah Ankit B. , Agarwal Aakanksha , Shah Ankur , Iyengar Karthikeyan P. , Botchu Rajesh
Published: February 2025

Guyon’s canal, or the ulnar tunnel, is a critical anatomical structure at the wrist that houses the ulnar nerve and artery, making it susceptible to various pathological conditions. Pathologies affecting this canal include traumatic injuries, compressive neuropathies like ulnar tunnel syndrome, and space-occupying lesions such as ganglion cysts. Ulnar tunnel syndrome, characterised by numbness, tingling, and weakness in the ulnar nerve distribution, is a prevalent condition that can severely impair hand function. The canal’s intricate anatomy is defined by surrounding ligaments and bones, divided into three zones, each containing distinct neural structures. Variations, including aberrant muscles and vascular anomalies, can complicate diagnosis and treatment. Imaging techniques are essential for evaluating these conditions; ultrasound provides real-time, dynamic assessments, while magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) offers detailed visualisation of soft tissues and bony structures, aiding in pre-surgical documentation and pathology evaluation. This review article explores the anatomy, pathologies, and imaging modalities associated with Guyon’s canal and underscores the necessity of understanding Guyon’s canal’s anatomy and associated pathologies to improve diagnostic accuracy and management strategies. By integrating anatomical insights with advanced imaging techniques, clinicians can enhance patient outcomes and preserve hand function, emphasising the need for increased awareness and research in this often-neglected area of hand anatomy.
Mean Squared Error Representative Points of Pareto Distributions and Their Estimation
Authors: Li Xinyang , Peng Xiaoling
Published: February 2025

Pareto distributions are widely applied in various fields, such as economics, finance, and environmental studies. The modeling of real-world data has created a demand for the discretization of Pareto distributions. In this paper, we propose using mean squared error representative points (MSE-RPs) as the discrete representation of Pareto distributions. We demonstrate the uniqueness and existence of these representative points under certain parameter settings and provide a theoretical k-means algorithm for the computation of MSE-RPs for Pareto I and Pareto II distributions. Furthermore, to enhance the applicability of MSE-RPs, we employ three methodological approaches to estimate the MSE-RPs of Pareto distributions. By analyzing the estimation bias under different parameters and methods, we recommend estimating the distribution parameters first before estimating the MSE-RPS for Pareto I and Pareto II distributions. For Pareto III and Pareto IV distributions, we suggest using the Bq quantiles for MSE-RP estimation. Building on this, we analyze the sources of estimation bias and propose an effective method for determining the number of MSE-RPs based on information gain truncation. Through simulations and real data studies, we demonstrate that the proposed methods for MSE-RP estimation are effective and can be used to fit the empirical distribution function of data accurately.
Mean Field Approaches to Lattice Gauge Theories: A Review
Authors: Fontana Pierpaolo , Trombettoni Andrea
Published: February 2025

Due to their broad applicability, gauge theories (GTs) play a crucial role in various areas of physics, from high-energy physics to condensed matter. Their formulations on lattices, lattice gauge theories (LGTs), can be studied, among many other methods, with tools coming from statistical mechanics lattice models, such as mean field methods, which are often used to provide approximate results. Applying these methods to LGTs requires particular attention due to the intrinsic local nature of gauge symmetry, how it is reflected in the variables used to formulate the theory, and the breaking of gauge invariance when approximations are introduced. This issue has been addressed over the decades in the literature, yielding different conclusions depending on the formulation of the theory under consideration. In this article, we focus on the mean field theoretical approach to the analysis of GTs and LGTs, connecting both older and more recent results that, to the best of our knowledge, have not been compared in a pedagogical manner. After a brief overview of mean field theory in statistical mechanics and many-body systems, we examine its application to pure LGTs with a generic compact gauge group. Finally, we review the existing literature on the subject, discussing the results obtained so far and their dependence on the formulation of the theory.
Real-Time Decoder Architecture for LDPC–CPM
Authors: Perrins Erik
Published: February 2025

This paper examines the iterative decoding of low-density parity check (LDPC) codes concatenated with continuous phase modulation (CPM). As relevant case studies, we focus on the family of three CPM waveforms that are embodied in the IRIG-106 aeronautical telemetry standard. Two of these CPMs have recently had LDPC codes designed for them for the first time, and thus the decoding complexity of these new schemes is of interest when considering adoption into the standard. We provide comprehensive numerical results that characterize the performance and iteration statistics of the joint LDPC–CPM decoder. These results identify the most advantageous decoder configurations and also expose a key design challenge, which is that LDPC-CPM decoders must deal with a large “peak to average” ratio in terms of global iterations. We show how a properly designed reference simulation can be used as a design tool to explore the performance of a large range of candidate systems without need for further simulation. We develop a real-time decoder architecture with fixed complexity and show how such a decoder can still achieve a relatively large maximum number of global iterations by introducing a trade-off between decoding latency and maximum global iterations. Our discussion shows that this scheme is generally applicable to LDPC-based schemes. We conclude with a comprehensive design study that demonstrates the accuracy of our methodology and its attractive performance–complexity trade-off.
FFusion: Feature Fusion Transformer for Zero-Shot Learning
Authors: Tao Wenjin , Xie Jiahao , An Zhinan , Meng Xianjia
Published: February 2025

Zero-shot learning (ZSL) typically leverages semantic knowledge and textual descriptions of classes to forge connections between seen and unseen classes. ZSL can classify new categories of data unseen in the training set. Prior research has focused on aligning image features with their corresponding auxiliary information, overlooking the limitation whereby individual features may not capture the full spectrum of information inherent in the original image. Additionally, there are concerns regarding the bias in the predicted results towards seen classes during the testing phase. In this work, we introduce a novel approach termed Feature Fusion Transformer Network (FFusion), which decomposes visual and semantic features into a multitude of functionally distinct features, fusing them to form new representations that better encapsulate the information content of the original images during training. Furthermore, we implement novel loss functions to balance the model’s focus on unseen and seen classes within the ZSL framework. Experiments show that our model achieves accuracy of 76.8% in the CUB dataset, while reducing the bias between seen and unseen classes to a mere 0.2%.
A Novel User Behavior Modeling Scheme for Edge Devices with Dynamic Privacy Budget Allocation
Authors: Zhang Hua , Huang Hao , Peng Cheng
Published: February 2025

Federated learning (FL) enables privacy-preserving collaborative model training across edge devices without exposing raw user data, but it is vulnerable to privacy leakage through shared model updates, making differential privacy (DP) essential. Existing DP-based FL methods, such as fixed-noise DP, suffer from excessive noise injection and inefficient privacy budget allocation, which degrade model accuracy. To address these limitations, we propose an adaptive differential privacy mechanism that dynamically adjusts the noise based on gradient sensitivity, optimizing the privacy–accuracy trade-off, along with a hierarchical privacy budget management strategy to minimize cumulative privacy loss. We also incorporate communication-efficient techniques like gradient sparsification and quantization to reduce bandwidth usage without sacrificing privacy guarantees. Experimental results on three real-world datasets showed that our adaptive DP-FL method improved accuracy by up to 8.1%, reduced privacy loss by 38%, and lowered communication overhead by 15–18%. While promising, our method’s robustness against advanced privacy attacks and its scalability in real-world edge environments are areas for future exploration, highlighting the need for further validation in practical FL applications such as personalized recommendation and privacy-sensitive user behavior modeling.
Prediction of Blast Furnace Gas Generation Based on Bayesian Network
Authors: Wu Zitao , Wu Dinghui
Published: February 2025

Due to the large fluctuation of blast furnace gas (BFG) generation and its complex production characteristics, it is difficult to accurately obtain its gas change rules. Therefore, this paper proposes a prediction method of BFG generation based on Bayesian network. First, the BFG generation data are divided according to the production rhythm of the hot blast stove, and the training event set is constructed for the two dimensions of interval generation and interval time. Then, the Bayesian network of generation and the Bayesian network of time corresponding to the two dimensions are built. Finally, the state of each prediction interval is inferred, and the results of the reasoning are mapped and combined to obtain the prediction results of the BFG generation interval combination. In the experiment part, the actual data of a large domestic iron and steel plant are used to carry out multi-group comparison experiments, and the results show that the proposed method can effectively improve the prediction accuracy.
Overview of Hybrid Marine Energy System Configurations and System Component Modeling Approaches
Authors: Radica Gojmir , Vidović Tino , Šimunović Jakov , Jurić Zdeslav
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to highlight the importance of hybrid propulsion technologies in the maritime industry as a key step toward reducing harmful emissions and improving the energy efficiency of the shipping sector. Hybrid systems, through optimized energy management and the combination of diesel engines, batteries, and fuel cells, can reduce fossil fuel consumption and emissions, contributing to decarbonization goals and lowering operating costs for shipowners. Different propulsion and energy architectures are examined, each offering specific advantages and being applied depending on the type of vessel and regulatory requirements. The main components of hybrid marine energy systems are specifically analyzed with their advantages and disadvantages. Special emphasis is placed on modeling hybrid system components, using both physical and data-driven models. Physical models provide accuracy but are more complex, while data-driven models enable fast processing and adaptability but may deviate from real results without high-quality data.
Radial Growth Responses of Sabina chinensis (L.) Ant. cv. Kaizuca to Climate Shifts in the Northern Transition Zones of the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) Coastal Region
Authors: Ma Tiantian , Luo Taoran , Feng Zhongke , Yu Zhuang , An Jiayi , Wang Shan , Hu Lili , Shao Yakui , Zhang Biao
Published: February 2025

Climate change may induce regional climate shifts, profoundly affecting plant growth, distribution, and ecosystems. This study collected 37 Sabina chinensis (Sabina chinensis (L.) Ant. cv. Kaizuca) tree cores (74 samples) from a site in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD) coastal region. Utilizing traditional dendrochronological principles and methods, a standardized tree-ring width chronology was developed to detect climate shift points and explore the differences in Sabina chinensis radial growth responses to climate factors, before and after these shifts. The findings are as follows: (1) Between 1967 and 2020, temperature emerged as the main climate factor influencing the radial growth of Sabina chinensis in the study area. (2) There are differences in the correlations between the tree radial growth of Sabina chinensis and climate factors in different months and seasons, before and after climate change. (3) Moving correlation analysis indicated that the relationships between radial growth and precipitation and temperature gradually altered. The study reveals the intricate influencing mechanisms of different climate factors on Sabina chinensis radial growth, before and after climate shifts, offering valuable references for other similar dendrochronological studies.
Continuous Adaptive Stabilization of the Unstable Period-1 Orbit of the Fractional Difference Logistic Map
Authors: Uzdila Ernestas , Telksniene Inga , Telksnys Tadas , Ragulskis Minvydas
Published: February 2025

A continuous adaptive stabilization technique for the unstable period-1 orbit of the fractional difference logistic map is presented in this paper. An impulse-based control technique without short oscillatory transients right after the control impulse is designed for the fractional map with a long memory horizon. However, it appears that the coordinate of the unstable period-1 orbit may drift due to the continuous application of the impulse-based control scheme. An adaptive scheme capable of tracking the drifting coordinate of the unstable period-1 orbit is designed and validated by a number of computational experiments. The proposed control scheme is minimally invasive compared to the continuous feedback control as it preserves the model of the system while requiring only a series of sparse, small, instantaneous control impulses to achieve continuous adaptive stabilization of the unstable period-1 orbit of the fractional difference logistic map.
In Vitro Gene Expression Profiling of Quantum Molecular Resonance Effects on Human Endometrium Models: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Grassi Angela , Rocca Maria Santa , Noventa Marco , Pozzato Gianantonio , Pozzato Alessandro , Scioscia Marco , Andrisani Alessandra , Pontrelli Giovanni , Foresta Carlo , De Toni Luca
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The identification of methods to improve the endometrial receptivity (ER) is increasingly of interest. The effect of the electromagnetic field associated with Quantum Molecular Resonance (QMR) on ER was investigated here. Methods: Ishikawa cells were used to evaluate the effects of QMR both on the expression of a group of genes involved in ER, i.e., HOXA10, HOXA11, LIF, ITGB3, and ITGAV, and on cell toxicity. Endometrial samples were obtained from six patients during routine diagnostic procedures, four of which were subsequently used to assess the transcriptional response to QMR through microarray. Results: Compared to unexposed controls, a single exposure of Ishikawa cells to QMR for 20 min was associated with a significant and power-dependent up-regulation of all the selected ER-related genes up to 8 power units (PU). Repeated exposure to QMR, up to three consecutive days, showed a significant up-regulation of all the selected genes at power values of 4 PU, from day two onwards. Negligible cytotoxicity was observed. Gene set enrichment analysis, on microarray data of endometrial biopsies stimulated for three consecutive days at 4 PU, showed a significant enrichment of specific gene sets, related to the proteasome system, the cell adhesion, the glucocorticoid receptor, and cell cycle pathways. Conclusions: Our results suggest a possible favorable impact of QMR on ER.
Using Vegetation Indices Developed for Sentinel-2 Multispectral Data to Track Spatiotemporal Changes in the Leaf Area Index of Temperate Deciduous Forests
Authors: Wang Xuanwen , Gan Yi , Iio Atsuhiro , Wang Quan
Published: February 2025

The leaf area index (LAI) in temperate forests is highly dynamic throughout the season, and lacking such dynamic information has limited our understanding of carbon and water flux patterns in these ecosystems. This study aims to explore the potential of using vegetation indices based on Sentinel-2 data, which includes three additional spectral bands in the red-edge region of its multispectral imager (MSI) sensor compared to previous satellite-borne imagery, to effectively track seasonal variations in LAI within typical cold–temperate deciduous forests originating in rugged terrain in Japan. We evaluated reported vegetation indices and developed an index specific to Sentinel-2 data to effectively monitor the spatiotemporal changes of LAI in mountainous deciduous forests, providing more accurate data for ecological monitoring. Results showed that the developed index (SRB12,B7) was able to track LAI at both seasonal and spatial scales (R2 = 0.576). Further analyses revealed that the index nevertheless performed relatively poorly during the leaf-maturing season when LAI peaks, suggesting that it still suffers from a “saturation” problem. For high-resolution tracking of LAI in temperate deciduous forests at both temporal and spatial scales, future research is needed to incorporate additional information.
Quality of Life of Caregivers of Patients with Cancer: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Alghamdi Wardah A. , Almatrafi Montaha A. , Asiri Rimas A. , Almuraee Lama A. , Alsharif Sarah M. , Makhdoum Faizah M. , Alghamdi Malak A. , Althubaiti Alaa , Alghamdi Majed A.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Cancer is a chronic and serious disease that has a wide range of effects on patients, some of which extend to family members and primary caregivers (PCs), thereby affecting their quality of life (QOL). The aim of this study was to evaluate the QOL of PCs of patients with cancer and to investigate the sociodemographic and other factors that impact PCs’ QOL. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted at the Princess Noura Oncology Center, King Abdulaziz Medical City, Jeddah, and included 235 PCs. A short-form health survey—the SF-36, which includes eight domains—was used to measure the QOL of patients’ PCs. Results: The relationship between the QOL of PCs and the characteristics of patients and PCs was examined. The QOL of PCs was associated with several variables. Multiple regression analysis showed that older age, female sex, and caring for patients with hematological malignancies were independent, significant variables associated with lower PCs’ QOL, whereas PCs caring for female patients experienced a better QOL. Conclusions: These findings highlight the essential aspects of caregivers’ QOL and their influencing factors. To better understand the implications of these factors, future studies are required to demonstrate the effects of patient- and disease-related factors on PCs’ QOL.
The Impact of Digitalization and Information and Communication Technology on the Nature and Organization of Work and the Emerging Challenges for Occupational Safety and Health
Authors: Obasi Izuchukwu Chukwuma , Benson Chizubem
Published: February 2025

Digitalization, driven by the widespread adoption of information and communication technology (ICT), reshapes occupational safety (OSH). This study examines emerging OSH risks linked to digitalization, assessing its benefits and challenges. Through a comprehensive literature review, key technologies influencing OSH are identified, their effects are categorized, and mitigation strategies are proposed. While ICT enhances workplace safety through improved monitoring and decision-making, it also introduces risks such as stress and information overload. The findings emphasize the need for further research on long-term impacts and effective risk management. This paper contributes to the field by highlighting ICT’s positive and negative implications on OSH and underscoring the importance of responsible technology adoption. The insights presented are valuable for policymakers, researchers, and industry practitioners committed to fostering a safe and healthy work environment.
Unravelling the Regulatory Roles of lncRNAs in Melanoma: From Mechanistic Insights to Target Selection
Authors: Moras Beatrice , Sissi Claudia
Published: February 2025

Melanoma is the deadliest form of skin cancer, and its treatment poses significant challenges due to its aggressive nature and resistance to conventional therapies. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) represent a new frontier in the search for suitable targets to control melanoma progression and invasiveness. Indeed, lncRNAs exploit a wide range of regulatory functions along chromatin remodeling, gene transcription, post-transcription, transduction, and post-transduction to ultimately tune multiple cellular processes. The understanding of this intricate and flexible regulatory network orchestrated by lncRNAs in pathological conditions can strategically support the rational identification of promising targets, ultimately speeding up the setup of new therapeutics to integrate the currently available approaches. Here, the most recent findings on lncRNAs involved in melanoma will be analyzed. In particular, the functional links between their mechanisms of action and some frequently underestimated features, like their different subcellular localizations, will be highlighted.
Functional Characterization of CsBAS1, CsSND1, and CsIRX6 in Cucumber Defense Against Meloidogyne incognita
Authors: Li Shihui , Wang Xueyun , Gao Lihong , Tian Yongqiang , Ma Si
Published: February 2025

Vascular tissue development plays a pivotal role in plant growth and defense against biotic stress. Root-knot nematodes, particularly Meloidogyne incognita (M. incognita), are globally distributed phytopathogens that cause severe economic losses in a variety of vascular plants. In this study, three vascular bundle development-related genes, including CsBAS1, CsSND1, and CsIRX6, were identified in cucumber. Tissue-specific expression analysis revealed that CsSND1 and CsIRX6 were highly expressed in roots. Infection with M. incognita showed dynamic expression changes for CsBAS1, CsSND1, and CsIRX6. Specially, CsIRX6 and CsSND1 were upregulated at 14 days post-inoculation (dpi), while CsBAS1 was downregulated at both 7 dpi and 14 dpi. Tissue localization studies using promoter–GUS constructs demonstrated pCsBAS1-GUS and pCsSND1-GUS activity in galls and specific vascular tissues, while CsIRX6 mRNA was detected in giant cells (GCs) at 14 dpi using in situ methods. Virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) of CsBAS1, CsSND1, and CsIRX6 revealed their distinct roles in nematode-induced gall formation. Silencing CsBAS1 and CsSND1 resulted in increased root growth and gall size, whereas silencing CsIRX6 led to reduced gall size. These findings highlight the functional significance of CsBAS1, CsSND1, and CsIRX6 in cucumber defense against M. incognita, offering insights into the interplay between vascular development and plant defense mechanisms.
Characterization of the Temporal Dynamics of the Endothelial–Mesenchymal-like Transition Induced by Soluble Factors from Dengue Virus Infection in Microvascular Endothelial Cells
Authors: Alfaro-García Jenny Paola , Orozco-Castaño Carlos Alberto , Sánchez-Rendón Julián Andrés , Casanova-Yépes Herley Fernando , Vicente-Manzanares Miguel , Gallego-Gómez Juan Carlos
Published: February 2025

Dengue virus (DV) infection poses a severe life-threatening risk in certain cases. This is mainly due to endothelial dysregulation, which causes plasma leakage and hemorrhage. However, the etiology of DV-induced endothelial dysregulation remains incompletely understood. To identify the potential mechanisms of endothelial dysregulation caused by DV, the effects of conditioned media from Dengue virus (CMDV) on the mechanics and transcriptional profile of the endothelial cells were examined using permeability assays, atomic force microscopy, In-Cell Western blot and in silico transcriptomics. Exposure of HMEC-1 cells to the CMDV increased endothelial permeability and cellular stiffness. It also induced the expression of the key proteins associated with endothelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EndMT). These data support the notion that the DV promotes endothelial dysfunction by triggering transcriptional programs that compromise the endothelial barrier function. Understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying DV-induced endothelial dysregulation is crucial for developing targeted therapeutic strategies to mitigate the severe outcomes associated with dengue infection.
Microbiome and Metabolome Illustrate the Correlations Between Endophytes and Flavor Metabolites in Passiflora ligularis Fruit Juice
Authors: Qi Meijun , Shi Xuedong , Huang Wenlong , Wei Qilong , Zhang Zhenwei , Zhang Rongqi , Dong Shilang , Anwar Sumera , Bakhat Hafiz Faiq , Wang Butian , Ge Yu
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the interplay between volatile and non-volatile flavor metabolites and endophytic microbial communities during three developmental stages of Passiflora ligularis fruit juice. Using bioinformatics and metabolomics, we characterize microbial diversity and metabolic variations to understand flavor development. A total of 1490 bacterial and 1158 fungal operational taxonomic units (OTUs) were identified. Young fruits had higher microbial diversity, dominated by Proteobacteria and Firmicutes (bacteria) and Ascomycota and Basidiomycota (fungi). As the fruit matured, Proteobacteria increased while Firmicutes decreased, indicating that microbial succession is tied to development. Metabolomic profiling identified 87 volatile and 1002 non-volatile metabolites, with distinct chemical classes varying across stages. Saturated hydrocarbons and fatty alcohols were the main volatile metabolites, while organic acids and lipids among non-volatile metabolites showed stage-dependent changes, influencing flavor complexity. Correlation analysis showed microbial-flavor interactions: Proteobacteria negatively correlated with metabolites, while Firmicutes positively correlated with metabolites. Ascomycota positively correlated with volatile metabolites, whereas Basidiomycota showed an inverse relationship, highlighting their differential contributions to flavor biosynthesis. This study enhances understanding of microbial and metabolic factors shaping P. ligularis fruit flavor, highlighting the importance of microbial influence on fruit metabolomics. The findings suggest the potential for microbiome engineering to improve flavor quality, aiding postharvest management and industrial processing in the food and beverage industry.
Discovery of Herbal Remedies and Key Components for Major Depressive Disorder Through Biased Random Walk Analysis on a Multiscale Network
Authors: Lee Jun-Ho , Choi Sungyoul , Lee Do-Eun , Kang Hyung Won , Lee Jin-Seok , Kim Ji-Hwan
Published: February 2025

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a widespread psychiatric condition with substantial socioeconomic impacts, yet single-target pharmacotherapies often yield responses. To address its multifactorial nature, this study employed a multiscale network analysis of herbs, their active components, and MDD-associated protein targets. Using a biased random walk with restart, we calculated interactions between disease-related and herb-derived targets, identifying herbs highly correlated with MDD. Enrichment analysis further revealed key signaling pathways, including oxidative stress, neuroinflammation, and hormone metabolism, underlying these herbs’ therapeutic effects. We identified Ephedrae herba, Glehniae radix, Euryales semen, and Campsitis flos as promising candidates, each containing multiple bioactive compounds (such as ephedrine, psoralen, xanthine, and ursolic acid) that modulate critical processes like oxidation–reduction, inflammatory cytokine regulation, and transcriptional control. Network visualization showed how these herbs collectively target both shared and distinct pathways, supporting a synergistic, multi-target therapeutic strategy. This approach underscores the significance of network-based methodologies in addressing complex disorders such as MDD, where focusing on a single target may overlook synergistic interactions. By integrating diverse molecular data, this study provides a systematic framework for identifying novel interventions. Future experimental validation will be crucial to confirm these predictions and facilitate the translation of findings into effective MDD therapies.
The Prognostic Role of miR-375 in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Systematic Review, Meta-Analysis, and Trial Sequential Analysis
Authors: Dioguardi Mario , Musella Gennaro , Bizzoca Maria Eleonora , Sovereto Diego , Guerra Ciro , Laterza Pietro , Martella Angelo , Lo Muzio Lorenzo , Di Domenico Marina , Cantore Stefania , Ballini Andrea
Published: February 2025

Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma (HNSCC) is a heterogeneous group of malignancies with poor survival outcomes, particularly in advanced stages. Identifying prognostic biomarkers could help improve patient management. miR-375, a small non-coding RNA, has been shown to influence tumor growth and immune responses, making it a candidate biomarker. This study aims to evaluate the role of miR-375 expression in predicting survival outcomes in HNSCC patients. A systematic review and meta-analysis were conducted according to PRISMA guidelines, incorporating data from six studies and the TGCA cohort, encompassing 452 patients. Fixed-effects models were applied to calculate aggregated hazard ratios (HRs) for overall survival (OS). Kaplan–Meier curves were analyzed using the Tierney method, and Trial Sequential Analysis (TSA) was performed to assess statistical power. Low miR-375 expression was associated with poorer OS, with an aggregated HR of 1.23 (95% CI: 1.10–1.37). Subgroup analysis showed consistent trends across oral and laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma. Sensitivity analysis confirmed these findings. TSA revealed that although the number of patients was sufficient, statistical power was insufficient to confirm a predefined risk reduction ratio (RRR) of 49%. Data from the TGCA cohort supported the meta-analysis findings, with an HR for OS of 1.32 (95% CI: 0.96–1.8). Low miR-375 expression is associated with worse survival outcomes in HNSCC patients, indicating its potential as a prognostic biomarker and therapeutic target. However, the retrospective nature of the included studies underscores the need for prospective research to validate these findings.
Enhancing the Therapeutic Efficacy of Berberine and Quercetin Through Salt Formulation for Liver Fibrosis Treatment
Authors: Cheng Yangyang , Yu Haoyang , Yang Sitong , Tian Xiaolian , Zhao Mengyu , Ren Ling , Guo Xiuping , Hu Chujuan , Jiang Jiandong , Wang Lulu
Published: February 2025

Liver fibrosis, caused by chronic hepatic injury, is a major threat to human health worldwide, as there are no specific drugs available for its treatment. Natural compounds, such as berberine (BBR) and quercetin (QR), have shown the ability to regulate energy metabolism and protect the liver without significant adverse effects. Additionally, combination therapy (the cocktail therapy approach), using multiple drugs, has shown promise in treating complicated conditions, including liver injury. In this study, we prepared a salt formulation of BBR and QR (BQS) to enhance their combined effect on liver fibrosis. The formation of BQS was confirmed using various analytical techniques, including nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (NMR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), powder X-ray diffractometry (PXRD), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results demonstrated that the dissolution efficiency and bioavailability of QR significantly increased in the BQS form, aligning with that of BBR, compared to the physically mixed (BQP) form. Moreover, BQS exhibited a superior inhibitory effect on fibrosis compared to BQP in the human hepatic stellate cell line LX-2 by modulating lipid accumulation, inflammation, apoptosis, and the cell cycle. Furthermore, in a mouse model of hepatic fibrosis induced by methionine and choline-deficient (MCD) diets, BQS demonstrated enhanced anti-fibrotic activities compared to BQP. These findings suggest that BQS holds promise as a potential alternative treatment for liver fibrosis. Importantly, this study provides novel insights into achieving a cocktail effect through the salt formation of two or more drugs. The results highlight the potential of salt formulations in enhancing the therapeutic efficacy and consistent biological processes of drug combinations.
Stress-Related LncRNAs and Their Roles in Diabetes and Diabetic Complications
Authors: Li Lian , Wu Yu-Qi , Yang Jin-E
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder and one of the most significant global health burdens worldwide. Key pathophysiological mechanisms underlying its onset and associated complications include hyperglycemia-related stresses, such as oxidative stress and endoplasmic reticulum stress (ER stress). Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs), defined as RNA transcripts longer than 200 nucleotides and lacking protein-coding capacity, play crucial roles in various biological processes and have emerged as crucial regulators in the pathogenesis of diabetes. This review provides a comprehensive overview of lncRNA biogenesis and its functional roles, emphasizing recent findings that link stress-related lncRNAs to diabetic pathology and complications. Also, we discuss how lncRNAs influence diabetes and its complications by modulating pathways involved in cell death, proliferation, inflammation, and fibrosis, which contribute to pancreatic β cell dysfunction, insulin resistance, diabetic nephropathy, and retinopathy. By analyzing current research, we aim to enhance understanding of lncRNA involvement in diabetes while identifying potential therapeutic targets and guiding future research directions to elucidate the complex mechanisms underlying this pervasive condition.