bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of Community-Based Exercise Interventions for Adults with Intellectual Disabilities
Authors: Greene Teresa , Taggart Laurence , Breslin Gavin
Published: February 2025

Background: Adults with intellectual disabilities are a particularly inactive sub-population who experience disproportionally poorer health and social exclusion when compared with the wider general population. This systematic review aimed to identify whether community-based exercise interventions were theoretically underpinned, whether they had an active single- or multi-exercise component, and how the interventions were objectively and/or subjectively measured, as well as deducing if they improved the health of this population. Method: A systematic search of five databases was conducted up to May 2024. The study was registered in PROSPERO and followed PRISMA reporting guidelines. Study methodological quality was appraised using the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme. Risk of bias was determined using the Cochrane collaboration tools ROB 2 and ROB 2 CRT. Articles were eligible for inclusion if they recruited adults with intellectual disability, were community-based, had an active exercise component and measured physical activity (PA) levels as an outcome measure. Results: In total, 9034 records were identified, with five studies meeting the eligibility criteria. All studies used a feasibility RCT or RCT methodology and all focused on weight loss or PA levels as the primary outcome measure. Two studies focused on walking as a single exercise, two combined walking with nutrition/weight loss, and one combined walking with aerobics. One multi-component walking and aerobics intervention led to statistically significant improvements in PA. Multi-component community-based exercise interventions led to statistically significant improvements in body composition measures. No studies showed statistically significant improvements in quality of life. Risk of bias was rated moderate to high across all included studies. Conclusions: Caution should be taken in drawing firm conclusions due to the small number of included studies, small sample sizes and high risk of bias. Multi-component community-based interventions are more effective at improving PA levels in adults with intellectual disabilities than walking-only studies. Future studies should be theoretically underpinned and explore the use of peer and student models of social support. The use of fitness facilities such as leisure centres and gyms requires further exploration in this population.
The Relationship of the Psychological Resilience and Stress Coping Level of Health Personnel Working in Hospitals After Kahramanmaraş-Based Earthquakes with Traumatic Stress
Authors: Koca Mehmet , Deniz Serdar , İnceoğlu Feyza
Published: February 2025

Objectives: In this study, we aimed to examine the indirect and direct effects of the stress experienced by health workers after an earthquake on their psychological resilience. Methods: This study was conducted using the Structural Equation Model on 315 employees serving in hospitals in Kahramanmaraş, Gaziantep, Şanlıurfa, Diyarbakır, Adana, Adıyaman, Osmaniye, Hatay, Kilis, Malatya, and Elazığ (11 provinces) that were most affected by the earthquake. Results: The study group consisted of 58.4% (n = 184) women and 41.6% (n = 131) men. The mean score on the Psychological Resilience Scale was 71.74, the mean score on the Coping with Stress Scale was 87.17, the mean score on the Traumatic Stress Symptom Scale was 44.04, and the mean score on the Disability Scale was 3.75. Psychological resilience had a statistically significant negative effect on traumatic stress symptoms (β1 = −0.26; p = 0.001 < 0.05). There was a statistically significant positive relationship between coping with stress and psychological resilience (β1 = 0.52; p = 0.001 < 0.05). Conclusions: It was concluded that an increase in an individual’s psychological resilience will increase the level of coping with stress, and the traumatic stress symptoms of individuals with an increased level of coping with stress will decrease.
Work-Related Low Back Pain Among Physical Therapists in the Makkah Region, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Takrouni Hebah Ameen , Mousa Gihan , Yaseen Khalid Mohammed , Alshehri Mansour Abdullah
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Low back pain (LBP) is a major work-related musculoskeletal disorder experienced globally, significantly limiting individuals’ daily activities and work performance. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of work-related LBP among physical therapists in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted using an online self-reported questionnaire, which covered three domains: demographic information, history of LBP prior to joining the physical therapy field, and work-related LBP experienced during their current job. The questionnaire was distributed to 300 physical therapists in the Makkah region, yielding 151 responses. Data were analyzed to explore associations between LBP and various categorical and continuous factors. Results: Among the respondents, 78.1% reported experiencing LBP during their work as physical therapists, while 21.9% did not. Of those with LBP, 53.4% reported mild pain, 39.8% reported moderate pain, and smaller proportions reported severe pain (4.2%) or no pain (2.5%). Additionally, 52.5% of respondents with LBP indicated that it negatively affected their daily activities. Conclusions: Work-related LBP is highly prevalent among physical therapists in the Makkah region of Saudi Arabia, significantly impacting both patient care and the therapists’ daily functioning.
Assessing Population Well-Being in Saudi Arabia: A Comprehensive National Survey Using the WHO-05 Index and Self-Rated Health Metrics
Authors: Alahmadi Abdulaziz , Almuzaini Yasir , Alosaimi Majed , Alahmari Ahmed , Alamri Fahad , Sheerah Haytham , Alburayh Mariyyah , Khan Anas
Published: February 2025

Introduction: The well-being of populations is crucial for understanding nations’ public health and progress. With its ongoing transformation and development objectives, Saudi Arabia emphasizes its residents’ quality of life and well-being. Recent surveys and health indicators have underlined the nation’s focus on enhancing population well-being. Aim: This study aimed to assess the overall level of well-being of the population living in Saudi Arabia using the WHO-5 index and self-rated health (SRH) metrics. Subject and methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among thirty-nine thousand five hundred and sixty-two people from the general population in Saudi Arabia, citizens and residents, including all adult age groups (>18 years) and both genders. A self-administered questionnaire was sent to the Saudi adult population using an online survey. The questionnaire includes socio-demographic characteristics, the five-item Well-Being Index (WHO-5), and the self-rated health status. Results: Based on SRH, 77.4% were considered a healthy group. Male gender participants who had a better education were more likely to report a favorable SRH. According to WHO-5, poor well-being was seen in 26% of the population, and the rest had good well-being (74%). Independent predictors for good well-being include increasing age and educational level and being unemployed. Interestingly, we found a positive significant correlation between SRH and WHO-5 scores (r = 0.371; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Poor well-being was common among the general population. Independent risk factors for poor well-being include female gender and Saudi nationality, while increasing age, male gender, and higher education were significant predictors of healthy SRH. More longitudinal studies are needed to extract more data on this nation’s growing prevalence of poor self-rated health status.
Unveiling the Genetic Diversity of Tunisian Monumental Olive Trees to Enhance the Olive Sector
Authors: Mnasri Sameh Rahmani , Montemurro Cinzia , Miazzi Monica Marilena , Debbabi Olfa Saddoud
Published: February 2025

The centennial olive trees of Tunisia serve as enduring symbols of resilience, having withstood the test of time while witnessing the effects of climate change, rising temperatures, water scarcity, and the emergence of new diseases. Presently, there is a notable lack of research on the genomic analysis of ancient trees. This study investigates the genetic diversity of twenty-eight ancient olive specimens collected from archeological sites in nine governorates from the north to the south of Tunisia. Using nine highly polymorphic microsatellite markers, these ancient olive trees were compared with twenty-five local Tunisian cultivars and sixty olive varieties from other Mediterranean countries (Greece, Italy, and Spain). The ancient olive trees were revealed to have a high genetic diversity, with 67 alleles and a Shannon index of 1.68. The key findings identify the ancient trees M25, M1, M28, and M24 as synonyms for local olive cultivars, while “M10” is noted as a first-generation migrant from Tunisian olives. Cluster analysis methods, including structure, neighbor-joining (NJ), and principal coordinates (PCoA), show that these ancient trees share a common genetic background and ancestry with varieties from Tunisia, Italy, Spain, and Greece. The conservation and evaluation of these genotypes will increase the genetic diversity available for breeding programs and strengthen the resilience of agriculture, which is currently facing unprecedented pressure worldwide.
Enhanced Salt Tolerance of Pea (Pisum sativum L.) Seedlings Illuminated by LED Red Light
Authors: Xu Kexin , Sun Xiaoan , Sun Chitao , Wang Yuqing , Zhu Haiyan , Xu Wanli , Feng Di
Published: February 2025

Light quality is an important variable affecting plant growth, so we aimed to explore the impact of light quality on plants under salt stress. The salt tolerance of pea (Pisum sativum L.) seedlings illuminated by LED red light and 4:1 of red/blue light in a hydroponic system was evaluated at three salinity levels (0, 50, and 100 mmol/L of NaCl) for their morphological and physiological parameters and their root growth characteristics in response to salt stress. Results demonstrated that, as salt stress intensified, the plant height, aboveground fresh/dry mass, root growth indices, and chlorophyll content of pea seedlings exhibited a decreasing trend, while the malondialdehyde (MDA) content and the activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), and catalase (CAT) in leaves increased. Also, more sodium (Na⁺) but less potassium (K⁺) ions were detected due to the change in electrolyte balance. Compared with pea seedlings under no salt stress, the growth rate, plant height, and K⁺ ion content significantly increased with the red light treatments, but both lights did not affect the aboveground fresh/dry mass, chlorophyll content, or root growth index. Under medium salt stress (50 mmol/L), red light helped generate more chlorophylls by 17.06%, accelerate leaf electrolyte exudation by 23.84%, accumulate more K⁺ ions by 46.32%, and increase the K⁺/Na⁺ ratio by 45.45%. When pea seedlings were stressed by 100 mmol/L salinity stress, red light was able to maintain the leaf chlorophyll level by 114.66%, POD enzyme activity by 157.78%, MDA amount by 14.16%, leaf and stem electrolyte leakage rate by 38.76% and 21.80%, respectively, K⁺ ion content by 45.47%, and K⁺/Na⁺ ratio by 69.70%. In conclusion, the use of red light has proven to enhance the salt tolerance of pea seedlings in a hydroponic system, which can and should be a promising approach to prime pea seedlings for more salt tolerance.
Perceived Barriers and Enablers for Taking Iron–Folic Acid Supplementation Regularly Among Adolescent Girls in Indonesia: A Pilot Study
Authors: Hidayanty Healthy , Nurzakiah Nurzakiah , Irmayanti Irmayanti , Yuliana Yuliana , Helmizar Helmizar , Yahya Yahya
Published: February 2025

Non-compliance with iron and folic acid (IFA) supplementation is a significant contribution to the high prevalence of anemia among adolescent girls in Indonesia. This pilot study aims to explore the perceived barriers and enablers to regular IFA supplement consumption among adolescent girls. Using a qualitative approach, data were collected through focus group discussions (FGDs) conducted in Makassar and Padang City. The FGD involved 32 grade eight and nine students from four junior high schools. In-depth interviews were also conducted with health workers, teachers, and parents to triangulate the findings. A thematic analysis was performed using a social cognitive theory framework. The average age of the informants was 13.6 ± 0.6 years. Despite receiving IFA supplements at school, only 47% of informants reported consuming them regularly. Key barriers to regular supplementation included dislike of the taste and smell, parental prohibition, negative experience consuming IFA supplements, the belief that IFA supplements increase menstrual blood flow and volume, and forgetfulness factors. Enablers include self-awareness of the supplement’s benefits, trust in school-provided supplements, and positive support from parents and peers. The findings highlight that both barriers and enablers play a crucial role in influencing IFA supplementation adherence. Addressing these factors is essential for improving compliance and reducing anemia rates among adolescent girls. Given the small sample size and convenience sampling method, this study serves as a pilot, and further research is needed to validate these findings on a larger scale.
The Machine Learning-Based Mapping of Urban Pluvial Flood Susceptibility in Seoul Integrating Flood Conditioning Factors and Drainage-Related Data
Authors: Bersabe Julieber T. , Jun Byong-Woon
Published: February 2025

In the last two decades, South Korea has seen an increase in extreme rainfall coinciding with the proliferation of impermeable surfaces due to urban development. When underground drainage systems are overwhelmed, pluvial flooding can occur. Therefore, recognizing drainage systems as key flood-conditioning factors is vital for identifying flood-prone areas and developing predictive models in highly urbanized regions. This study evaluates and maps urban pluvial flood susceptibility in Seoul, South Korea using the machine learning techniques such as logistic regression (LR), random forest (RF), and support vector machines (SVM), and integrating traditional flood conditioning factors and drainage-related data. Together with known flooding points from 2010 to 2022, sixteen flood conditioning factors were selected, including the drainage-related parameters sewer pipe density (SPD) and distance to a storm drain (DSD). The RF model performed best (accuracy: 0.837, an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC): 0.902), and indicated that 32.65% of the study area has a high susceptibility to flooding. The accuracy and AUC were improved by 7.58% and 3.80%, respectively, after including the two drainage-related variables in the model. This research provides valuable insights for urban flood management, highlighting the primary causes of flooding in Seoul and identifying areas with heightened flood susceptibility, particularly relating to drainage infrastructure.
A Novel Context-Aware Douglas–Peucker (CADP) Trajectory Compression Method
Authors: Mehri Saeed , Hooshangi Navid , Mahdizadeh Gharakhanlou Navid
Published: February 2025

Most traditional trajectory compression methods, such as the Douglas–Peucker (DP) method, consider only spatial characteristics and disregard contextual factors, including environmental context. This paper proposes a new way of trajectory formulation by considering all spatial, internal, environmental, and semantic contexts to capture all contextual aspects of moving objects. Then, we propose the Context-Aware Douglas–Peucker (CADP) method for trajectory compression. These facts are confirmed by experiments with real AIS data showing that, while CADP preserves the same computational efficiency of DP (i.e., at O(n2)), it outperforms DP and two-stage Context-Aware Piecewise Linear Segmentation (two-stage CPLS) methods in preserving agent movement behavior, obtaining compressed trajectories that are closer to the original ones and that are much more useful in base analyses such as trajectory prediction. Specifically, the LSTM-based models trained on CADP-compressed trajectories have relatively lower RMSEs than others compressed by either DP or two-stage CPLS. Therefore, CADP is more scalable and efficient, thus making it more practical for large-scale engineering applications; with the improvement in trajectory analysis accuracy achieved by the suggested method, a wide range of critical engineering applications can be potentially improved, such as collision avoidance and route planning. Future work will focus on spatial auto-correlation and uncertainty to extend the robustness and applicability of the approach.
The Flavonoid Agathisflavone Attenuates Glia Activation After Mechanical Injury of Cortical Tissue and Negatively Regulates Both NRLP3 and IL-1β Expression
Authors: de Sousa Verônica Moreira , Almeida Áurea Maria Alves Nunes , Ferreira Rafael Short , dos Santos Balbino Lino , da Silva Victor Diogenes Amara , David Jorge Mauricio , Santos Cleonice Creusa dos , Costa Silvia Lima
Published: February 2025

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) has a complex and multifactorial pathology and is a major cause of death and disability for humans. Immediately after TBI, astrocytes and microglia react with complex morphological and functional changes known as reactive gliosis to form a glial scar in the area immediately adjacent to the lesion, which is the major barrier to neuronal regeneration. The flavonoid agathisflavone (bis-apigenin), present in Poincianella pyramidalis leaves, has been shown to have neuroprotective, neurogenic, and anti-inflammatory effects, demonstrated in vitro models of glutamate-induced toxicity, neuroinflammation, and demyelination. In this study, we evaluated the effect and mechanisms of agathisflavone in neuronal integrity and in the modulation of gliosis in an ex vivo model of TBI. For this, microdissections from the encephalon of Wistar rats (P6-8) were prepared and subjected to mechanical injury (MI) and treated or not with daily agathisflavone (5 μM) for 3 days. Astrocyte reactivity was investigated by measuring mRNA and expression of GFAP protein in the lesioned area by immunofluorescence and Western blot. The proportion of microglia was determined by immunofluorescence for Iba-1; mRNA expression for inflammasome NRPL3 and interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) was determined by RT-qPCR. It was observed that lesions in the cortical tissue induced astrocytes overexpressing GFAP in the typical glial scar formed and that agathisflavone modulated GFAP expression at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels, which was associated with a reduction of the glial scar. MI induced an increase in the proportion of microglia (Iba-1+), which was not observed in agathisflavone-treated cultures. Moreover, the flavonoid modulated negatively both the NRLP3 and IL-1β mRNA expression that was increased in the lesioned area of the tissue. These findings support the regulatory properties of agathisflavone in the control of the inflammatory response in glial cells, which can impact neuroprotection and should be considered for future studies for TB and other pathological conditions of the central nervous system.
Exploring the Impact of Microgravity on Gene Expression: Dysregulated Pathways and Candidate Repurposed Drugs
Authors: Galčenko Karina , Bourdakou Marilena M. , Spyrou George M.
Published: February 2025

Space exploration has progressed from contemporary discoveries to current endeavors, such as space tourism and Mars missions. As human activity in space accelerates, understanding the physiological effects of microgravity on the human body is becoming increasingly critical. This study analyzes transcriptomic data from human cell lines exposed to microgravity, investigates its effects on gene expression, and identifies potential therapeutic interventions for health challenges posed by spaceflight. Our analysis identified five under-expressed genes (DNPH1, EXOSC5, L3MBTL2, LGALS3BP, SPRYD4) and six over-expressed genes (CSGALNACT2, CSNK2A2, HIPK1, MBNL2, PHF21A, RAP1A), all of which exhibited distinct expression patterns in response to microgravity. Enrichment analysis highlighted significant biological functions influenced by these conditions, while in silico drug repurposing identified potential modulators that could counteract these changes. This study introduces a novel approach to addressing health challenges during space missions by repurposing existing drugs and identifies specific genes and pathways as potential biomarkers for microgravity effects on human health. Our findings represent the first systematic effort to repurpose drugs for spaceflight, establishing a foundation for the development of targeted therapies for astronauts. Future research should aim to validate these findings in authentic space environments and explore broader biological impacts.
Biological Significance and Therapeutic Promise of Programmed Ribosomal Frameshifting
Authors: Ramamonjiharisoa Miora Bruna Marielle , Liu Sen
Published: February 2025

Programmed Ribosomal Frameshifting (PRF) is a mechanism that alters the mRNA reading frame during translation, resulting in the production of out-of-frame proteins. PRF plays crucial roles in maintaining cellular homeostasis and contributes significantly to disease pathogenesis, particularly in viral infections. Notably, PRF can induce immune responses in the SARS-CoV-2 mRNA vaccine, further extending its biological significance. These multiple aspects of PRF highlight its potential as a therapeutic target. Since PRF efficiency can be modulated by cellular factors, its expression or silencing is context-dependent. Therefore, a deeper understanding of PRF is essential for harnessing its therapeutic potential. This review explores PRF biological significance in disease and homeostasis. Such knowledge would serve as a foundation to advance therapeutic strategies targeting PRF modulation, especially in viral infections and vaccine development.
The Impact of Human Liver Transplantation on the Concentration of Fibroblast Growth Factors: FGF19 and FGF21
Authors: Budkowska Marta , Ostrycharz-Jasek Ewa , Cecerska-Heryć Elżbieta , Dołęgowska Katarzyna , Siennicka Aldona , Nazarewski Łukasz , Rykowski Paweł , Dołęgowska Barbara
Published: February 2025

The multitude of processes in which the liver participates makes it vulnerable to many serious diseases, which can lead to chronic organ failure. Modern medicine bases the treatment of end-stage liver failure on liver transplantation. To ensure the proper functioning of the transplanted liver, a balance of cellular and immunological processes and appropriate concentrations of many different factors are necessary, including, among others, fibroblast growth factors (FGFs). Over the last several years, studies have focused on some FGF growth factors, i.e., FGF19 and FGF21. These two growth factors belong to the FGF19 subfamily, and we concentrate on these two factors in our work. These factors diffuse away from the site of secretion into the blood, acting as hormones. FGF19 is a growth factor with a high therapeutic potential, involved in the homeostasis of bile acids necessary to maintain the proper function of the transplanted liver. FGF21, in turn, plays an important role in regulating lipid and glucose homeostasis. This study aimed to evaluate changes in the concentration of growth factors FGF19 and FGF21 in the plasma of 84 patients before, 24 h, and 2 weeks after liver transplantation (ELISA test was used). Additionally, the correlations of the basic laboratory parameters—alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate aminotransferase (AST), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (GGTP), alkaline phosphatase (ALP), total bilirubin, C-reactive protein (CRP), albumin and hemoglobin (Hb)—with FGF19 and FGF21 were determined. Our studies noted statistically significant changes in FGF19 and FGF21 concentrations before, 24 h, and 2 weeks after liver transplantation. The highest values for FGF19 before liver transplantation and the lowest values 24 h after this surgery were observed for FGF21; the highest concentrations were observed the day after liver transplantation, and the lowest were observed immediately before surgery. Observations of increases and decreases in the concentration of the examined factors at individual time points (before and after transplantation) allow us to suspect that FGF19 has an adaptive and protective function toward the transplanted liver. At the same time, FGF21 may affect the regenerative mechanisms of the damaged organ.
The Endocannabinoid System: Implications in Gastrointestinal Physiology and Pathology
Authors: Aloisio Caruso Emanuela , De Nunzio Valentina , Tutino Valeria , Notarnicola Maria
Published: February 2025

The endocannabinoid system (ECS), composed of receptors, endocannabinoids, and enzymes that regulate biosynthesis and degradation, plays a fundamental role in the physiology and pathology of the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in the small and large intestine and liver. Specifically, cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1R) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), located principally in the nervous system and immune cells, orchestrate processes such as intestinal motility, intestinal and hepatic inflammation, and energy metabolism, respectively. The main endocannabinoids, anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG), influence appetite, body weight regulation, and inflammatory states and thus have implications in obesity, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). Recent studies have highlighted the therapeutic potential of targeting the ECS to modulate gastrointestinal and metabolic diseases. In particular, peripheral CB1R antagonists and CB2R agonists have shown efficacy in treating intestinal inflammation, reducing hepatic steatosis, and controlling IBS symptoms. Moreover, the ECS is emerging as a potential target for the treatment of colorectal cancer, acting on cell proliferation and apoptosis. This review highlights the opportunity to exploit the endocannabinoid system in the search for innovative therapeutic strategies, emphasizing the importance of a targeted approach to optimize treatment efficacy and minimize side effects.
AI and Related Technologies in the Fields of Smart Agriculture: A Review
Authors: Assimakopoulos Fotis , Vassilakis Costas , Margaris Dionisis , Kotis Konstantinos , Spiliotopoulos Dimitris
Published: February 2025

The integration of cutting-edge technologies—such as the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), and various emerging technologies—is revolutionizing agricultural practices, enhancing productivity, sustainability, and efficiency. The objective of this study is to review the literature regarding the development and evolution of AI as well as other emerging technologies in the various fields of Agriculture as they are developed and transformed by integrating the above technologies. The areas examined in this study are open field smart farming, vertical and indoor farming, zero waste agriculture, precision livestock farming, smart greenhouses, and regenerative agriculture. This paper links current research, technological innovations, and case studies to present a comprehensive review of these emerging technologies being developed in the context of smart agriculture, for the benefit of farmers and consumers in general. By exploring practical applications and future perspectives, this work aims to provide valuable insights to address global food security challenges, minimize environmental impacts, and support sustainable development goals through the application of new technologies.
Pyridine vs. Thiazole in Cyclometalated N^C^N Ni(II) Complexes
Authors: Kletsch Lukas , Jordan Rose , Strippel Julian , Vicic David A. , Klein Axel
Published: February 2025

Six N^C^N cyclometalated Ni(II) complexes [Ni(N^C^N)Cl] or [Ni(N^C^N’)Br] with symmetric N^C^N or non-symmetric N^C^N’ ligands in which the peripheral N-groups were varied with pyridine (Py), 4-thiazole (4Tz), 2-thiazole (2Tz), and 2-benzothiazole (2Btz) complementing the previously reported complexes with di(2-pyridyl)phenide ligands [Ni(Py(Ph)Py)X] X = Cl or Br. The non-symmetric [Ni(N^C^N’)Br] complexes were synthesized from NiBr2 and N^CH^N’ protoligands through base-assisted nickelation, while the symmetric [Ni(N^C^N)Cl] complexes were received from the N^C(Cl)^N protoligands and [Ni(COD)2] (COD = 1,5-cyclooctadiene). Introduction of 4Tz on both sides shifted the electrochemical gap ΔEexp = Eox–Ered and the long wavelength UV-vis absorption maxima of the complexes to higher energies, while 2Tz leads to a shift to lower energies. When introducing only one 4Tz or 2Tz as peripheral groups, the remaining PhPy moiety dominates the electronic properties and electrochemistry and photophysics are very similar to the Py(Ph)Py derivatives. In contrast to this, introduction of 2Btz shifts both values to lower energies, regardless of one or two 2Btz groups and the 2Btz moiety dominates the character of the frontier molecular orbitals of the complexes, as DFT calculations show. Long-wavelength UV-vis absorptions vary from 416 to 443 nm, and their energies correlate well with the first reduction potentials. Negishi-type C–C cross-coupling reactions gave total yields ranging from 1 to 60% and cross-coupling yields from 1 to 44%. The reactivities correlate roughly with the first reduction potentials. Facilitated reduction (E around –2 or higher) goes generally along with improved performance, making the thiazole-containing complexes interesting candidates for such catalysis.
Exploring Bacterial Communities and Functions in Phytophagous Halyomorpha halys and Predatory Arma chinensis
Authors: Cheng Hongmei , Yan Xiaoyu , Lin Changjin , Chen Yu , Ma Le , Fu Luyao , Dong Xiaolin , Liu Chenxi
Published: February 2025

The phytophagous Halyomorpha halys (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) is a global agricultural pest that damages many crops. Conversely, the predatory Arma chinensis (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) shows promise as a biological control agent against lepidopteran and coleopteran pests. Halyomorpha halys and A. chinensis are closely related species with different feeding habits, as confirmed via genomic and morphological analyses. However, no study investigating the implications of these differences has been reported. Herein, 16S rRNA sequencing technology was employed to analyze the microbiota diversity and function in different tissues (salivary glands, gut, sperm, and ovaries) of H. halys and A. chinensis to elucidate these differences from a microbial perspective. Additionally, the adult male-to-female ratio in A. chinensis organs was statistically similar, while that in H. halys was not. Based on the dominance of the symbionts in the two bug species, we inferred that Sodalis is involved in reproduction and digestion in A. chinensis, while Spiroplasma and Pantoea play essential roles in H. halys reproduction and digestion. We analyzed the data on the microbial diversity of two bug species, laying a foundation for further understanding microbial symbiosis in A. chinensis and H. halys, which may inform the development of biological control strategies.
A Pre-Exposure to Male-Specific Compound γ-Hexalactone Reduces Oviposition in Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) Under Laboratory Conditions
Authors: López Sergio , Corbella-Martorell Clàudia , Tarantino Elisa , Quero Carmen
Published: February 2025

The olive fruit fly Bactrocera oleae (Rossi) (Diptera: Tephritidae) is regarded as the most harmful pest insect for olive trees worldwide. In order to control olive fruit fly populations and mitigate the damage and economic losses they produce, the development of novel strategies to control the olive fruit fly within an integrated pest management scope has become a major concern. Here we show that a 24-h pre-exposure to the male-specific γ-hexalactone significantly reduces the oviposition on an artificial substrate. The number of eggs per female laid by those females pre-exposed to 1 mg of γ-hexalactone was significantly reduced (6.8 ± 6.1 eggs/female) in comparison to naïve (i.e., non-exposed) females (22.4 ± 10.9 eggs/female), yielding a mean oviposition activity index (OAI) of −0.56 ± 0.22. Contrarily, no significant effect was observed when females were pre-exposed to 0.5 mg of compound, even though the number of eggs per female (14.2 ± 6.3) was lower than that of naïve females, resulting in a mean OIA of −0.24 ± 0.17. Overall, this research represents a preliminary basis for delving into the potential of γ-hexalactone for being used as an oviposition disruptant, albeit further research is still required to address this issue.
Identification of Bed Bugs from Comoros, Using Morphological, Matrix-Assisted Laser Desorption Ionisation Time-of-Flight Mass Spectrometry, and Molecular Biology Tools, and the Detection of Associated Bacteria
Authors: M’madi Saidou Ahamada , Zan Diarra Adama , Bérenger Jean-Michel , Hasnaoui Bouthaina , Parola Philippe
Published: February 2025

After virtually disappearing from domestic dwellings in the Western world at the end of the Second World War, bed bugs have re-emerged in recent years. Few studies, however, have been carried out on these insects in tropical islands. In this study, we focussed on describing bed bug specimens collected from dwellings in a high-altitude village in Grande Comore, an island in the Comoros, in the Indian Ocean. We also aimed to detect the bacteria associated with them. Using MALDI-TOF MS coupled with molecular biology, we were able to confirm that the C. hemipterus species (the tropical bug) was the bug infesting these homes. Interestingly, the results also show that MALDI-TOF MS can differentiate between the developmental stages of bed bugs (immature and adult). Screening for bacteria was carried out using qPCR, regular PCR, and sequencing, with only Wolbachia DNA being found. Widespread surveys throughout the country are needed to ascertain the level of bed bug infestation, with a view to implementing appropriate control measures.
Identification of Candidate Olfactory Genes in the Antennal Transcriptome of Loxostege sticticalis Trapped by Three Different Sex Pheromone Blends
Authors: Zhang Mengke , Zhao Sumei , Xue Zhiping , Sun Jiaying , Hao Jiangning , Deng Fengzhi , Huang Junxia , Du Caroline , Du Yongjun
Published: February 2025

Insects sense intraspecific or interspecific information about the chemical substances in the habitat through the sensitive olfactory system to carry out foraging, mating, oviposition, and other activities. The antennae serve as the primary olfactory organs in insects. The olfactory process involves the participation of many proteins, such as odorant-binding proteins (OBPs) and odorant receptors (ORs), but ORs play a central role in olfactory specificity and sensitivity. The beet webworm, Loxostege sticticalis, is an omnivorous agricultural pest that endangers crops and poses a significant risk to the agricultural and animal husbandry production in northern China. In this study, Illumina sequencing was conducted on the antennal transcriptome of male L. sticticalis trapped by three different sex pheromone blends. A total of 10,320 DEGs were identified, from which 46 candidate olfactory genes were selected for further analysis. These candidate olfactory genes comprise 13 odorant receptors, 6 ionotropic receptors (IRs), 3 gustatory receptors (GRs), 12 odorant-binding proteins, and 13 chemosensory proteins (CSPs). In summary, we analyzed the antennal transcriptome of male L. sticticalis trapped by three different sex pheromone blends and identified several candidate olfactory genes. This discovery offers a foundation for further molecular-level investigations into the olfactory system of L. sticticalis.
Methyl Jasmonate Enhances the Resistance of Populus alba var. pyramidalis Against Anoplophora glabripennis (Coleoptera: Cerambycidae)
Authors: Shao Pengpeng , Luo Jiayu , Zhang Rui , Liu Jianfeng , Cao Dandan , Su Zhi , Wei Jianrong
Published: February 2025

Populus alba var. pyramidalis (PaP) is a very important and main planted tree species in northwestern China. However, it has been threatened by Asian longhorned beetle Anoplophora glabripennis (ALB) infestation. A feasible way to protect PaP is by improving its own insect resistance ability. In order to achieve this goal, we first checked whether ALB could induce the defense system of PaP by comparing the ALB-attracted volatiles of PaP before and after ALB infestation through the collection and identification of volatiles by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). We found that attractant volatiles (Z)-3-hexenol (Z3H) and (Z)-3-hexen-1-yl acetate (Z3HA) decreased by 72.99% and 74.53% after ALB infestation, respectively. Then, the contents of the plant hormones salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA), methyl salicylate (MeSA), and methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and the defense substances hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), peroxidase (POD), and total superoxide dismutase (T-SOD) in the phloem of PaP were determined before and after ALB infestation by high-performance liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS) and a manufacturer’s kit, respectively. The results showed that the quantities of SA decreased, but JA and MeJA increased by 2.1 times and 3.02 times, respectively, and the increase in H2O2 and POD was also significant. Therefore, we hypothesized that MeJA might be closely related to the induced ALB resistance of PaP. Further exogenous spraying of MeJA on PaP showed that the feeding and oviposition of ALB adults were significantly decreased on PaP, confirming that MeJA could improve PaP’s resistance against ALB. The concentration effect showed that 10−4 mol/L of MeJA treatment induced the strongest results. Our results clearly demonstrated the response of a poplar species to a wood borer infestation and provide an alternative method to protect PaP in the future.
Impact of Temperature Variation on the Biological Traits and Lifecycle of Spodoptera exigua (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae): A Meta-Analysis Approach
Authors: Zhang Honghua , Xu Danping , Deng Xingqi , Liu Zhiqian , He Zhipeng , Wu Junhao , Zhuo Zhihang
Published: February 2025

Spodoptera exigua is a pest of considerable economic importance; however, detailed research into its ecological adaptability in newly invaded habitats is limited. This research performed a comprehensive analysis of the life history characteristics of S. exigua under varying temperature, photoperiod, and humidity conditions. A total of 264 studies that met the inclusion criteria were included in the analysis, and the data were examined using random-effects model, fixed-effects model, and meta-regression analysis techniques. The findings reveal that when temperatures exceed 20 °C, several biological parameters of S. exigua significantly increase, with the highest biological activity observed at 33 °C. As temperature rises, the duration of each developmental phase significantly decreases, accompanied by a reduction in the average number of eggs produced by females and a shorter pre-oviposition period. In addition, the pupal development period is shortened, resulting in a longer adult lifespan. By considering environmental variables such as temperature, photoperiod, and relative humidity, we identified the optimal conditions for the survival of each developmental stage of S. exigua. These results provide a foundation for predicting the population dynamics of this pest and contribute to the development of more effective pest control strategies.
Ultrastructure of the Eggs, Larvae, and Pupae of Hyphantria cunea (Lepidoptera: Erebidae)
Authors: Xue Han , Liang Xinqian , Xie Qi , Yang Liu’er , Wan Mengcheng , Gao Cuiqing
Published: February 2025

Hyphantria cunea is a widespread pest that causes significant issues in forestry and agriculture, with a far-reaching global impact. However, ultramorphological studies of H. cunea, especially in terms of ultramorphological changes, are far from in-depth. Therefore, we investigated the ultrastructure of its eggs, larvae, and pupae using scanning electron microscopy, focusing on ultrastructural changes in larvae across different instars. The eggs have rough surfaces, and the micropylar region consists of rosette cells. The larval head chaetotaxy is symmetrically arranged, and there are three types of sensilla on the antennae and mouthparts. The abdominal and anal prolegs feature a uniordinal heteroideus midband of crochets. The pupal abdomen has ten segments; in females, the genital slit (Fgs) is located at the anterior edge of abdominal segment VIII, while in males, the genital slit (Mgs) is situated in the middle of abdominal segment IX. First-instar larvae exhibit only primary setae, and secondary setae emerge in the second instar. As the larvae mature, the head, thoracic legs, and abdominal and anal prolegs all become larger overall. The surface of the verrucae is initially smooth, with microtrichia appearing from the fourth instar onwards, and the setae on the verrucae gradually increase in size. These findings provide additional features for larval species identification and contribute to the morphological study of H. cunea.
Compatibility Analysis Between RedCap Non-Public Networks and 5G NR in TDD FR1 and FR2 Bands
Authors: Tikhvinskiy Valery , Pastukh Alexander , Dymkova Svetlana , Varlamov Oleg
Published: February 2025

RedCap technology is set to become a critical component in the growth of the Internet of Things (IoT), enabling sensors and wearable devices for medical, industrial, and commercial applications. However, because RedCap primarily operates in non-public networks and does not synchronize its time-division duplexing (TDD) mode with 5G NR networks, interference risks arise. This is particularly concerning as traditional 5G NR networks prioritize downlink communication, whereas RedCap is designed for uplink. This study investigates the potential interference between RedCap non-public networks and 5G NR in TDD FR1 and FR2 frequency bands using Monte Carlo simulation techniques. The results illustrate how RedCap deployments may impact 5G NR performance in urban and suburban environments. Key insights are provided to inform strategies for minimizing interference and ensuring coexistence between these technologies.
Outcomes of K-Clip Implantation for Functional Tricuspid Regurgitation Accompanied with Persistent Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Lin Da-Wei , Zou Ling-Wei , Miao Jia-Xin , Fan Jia-Ning , Meng Min-Fang , Qi Yi-Ming , Zhan Zhi , Pan Wen-Zhi , Zhou Da-Xin , Zhang Xiao-Chun , Ge Jun-Bo
Published: February 2025

Background: Atrial fibrillation (AF) has been identified as a risk factor for functional tricuspid regurgitation (FTR) in the absence of other known etiologies, although limited interventional options are available. K-Clip™, a novel transcatheter tricuspid annuloplasty device, is a clip-based annular plication approach for FTR. To date, no studies have investigated the short-term outcomes of K-Clip™ for patients with severe FTR associated with AF. Therefore, the aim of this study was to explore the feasibility and effectiveness of transcatheter annular repair with K-Clip™ for FTR in patients with persistent AF. Methods: Patients with FTR and persistent AF who underwent transcatheter annular repair with K-Clip™ at nine centers in China during the inclusion period were included (This study derived from Confirmatory Clinical Study of Treating Tricuspid Regurgitation With K-Clip™ Transcatheter Annuloplasty System [TriStar study}). Baseline data, imaging results, and follow-up data were collected. Results: All 52 patients (23 men, 74.02 ± 7.03 years) received successful intervention, and the mean operation time and radian exposure were 2.64 ± 1.09 h and 133.33 ± 743.06 mGy, respectively. No death cases and a low major adverse event occurrence rate were reported in 30 days. A significant decrease in FTR was documented, and TR remained severe in only two patients (3.8%). The regurgitation volume decreased significantly, accompanied by a notable reduction in the effective regurgitation orifice area and tricuspid annulus diameter, which subsequently led to the reversal of right heart remodeling. Furthermore, a decrease in pulmonary artery systolic pressure and an increase in cardiac output were documented. Conclusions: Transcatheter annular repair with K-Clip™ showed favorable short-term prognosis and significant improvement in FTR in patients with severe FTR associated with persistent AF. K-Clip™ could be a novel option for that group of patients.
Mitigating Malicious Insider Threats to Common Data Environments in the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction Industry: An Incomplete Information Game Approach
Authors: Lalropuia KC , Goyal Sanjeev , García de Soto Borja , Yao Dongchi , Sonkor Muammer Semih
Published: February 2025

Common data environments (CDEs) are centralized repositories in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry designed to improve collaboration and project efficiency. However, CDEs hosted on cloud platforms face significant risks from insider threats, as stakeholders with legitimate access may act maliciously. To address these vulnerabilities, we developed a game-theoretic framework using Bayesian games that account for incomplete information, modeling both simultaneous and sequential interactions between insiders and data defenders. In the simultaneous move game, insiders and defenders act without prior knowledge of each other’s decisions, while the sequential game allows the defender to respond after observing insider actions. Our analysis used Bayesian Nash Equilibrium to predict malicious insider behavior and identify optimal defense strategies for safeguarding CDE data. Through simulation experiments and validation with real project data, we illustrate how various parameters affect insider–defender dynamics. Our results provide insights into effective cybersecurity strategies tailored to the AEC sector, bridging theoretical models with practical applications and supporting data security within the increasingly digitalized construction industry.
Microwave Synthesis of Luminescent Recycled Glass Containing Dy2O3 and Sm2O3
Authors: Buasri Achanai , Boonpanya Apichaya , Yangderm Arraya , Kensopha Thanaporn , Loryuenyong Vorrada
Published: February 2025

This research studied the recycling of borosilicate glass wastes from damaged laboratory glassware. The luminescent glasses were prepared by doping glass waste powder with rare earth ions, namely, dysprosium ions (Dy3+) and samarium ions (Sm3+), as well as co-doping with Dy3+ and Sm3+ at a concentration of 2% by weight. The sintering process was conducted in a microwave oven for a duration of 15 min. The photoluminescence spectra of the doped glasses were obtained under excitation at 401 nm and 388 nm. The results showed that the emission characteristics depended on the doping concentrations of Dy3+ and Sm3+ and the excitation wavelengths. Upon excitation at 401 nm, the co-doped glasses exhibited the maximum emission peak of Sm3+ at 601 nm (yellowish and orange region in the CIE chromaticity diagram) due to the energy transition from 4G5/2 to 6H7/2. When excited at 388 nm, however, the emission spectra of the co-doped glasses were similar to the characteristic emission peaks of Dy3+ (white region in the CIE chromaticity diagram), but the peak position exhibits a red shift. This could be attributed to an increase in the amount of non-bridging oxygens (NBOs) by co-doping.