bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Parent–child attachment and adolescent problematic behavior: the mediating effect of legal emotions
Authors: Jianhua He , Su Xu , Shuhui Xu
Published: February 2025

Introduction

In criminology, the close relationship between legal emotions and adolescent deviant behavior is well-documented. In psychology, parental attachment is strongly associated with children’s problematic behavior; however, the role of legal emotions in this relationship remains underexamined.

Methods

This study investigates the role of legal emotions in the relationship between adolescent parent–child attachment and problematic behavior. Adolescents completed self-report questionnaires.

Results

Results revealed that both paternal and maternal attachment significantly negatively predicted adolescent problematic behavior, with paternal attachment explaining a larger proportion of the variance. Even after controlling for factors such as gender and grade level, parental attachment significantly negatively predicted adolescent problematic behavior. Legal emotions partially mediated the relationship between parental attachment and problematic behavior.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that fostering positive parent–child relationships and enhancing adolescents’ positive legal emotions may be effective strategies for reducing problematic behaviors among youth.
Comparison of personality and psychopathology in patients with Fabry disease and patients with end-stage renal disease: a preliminary study
Authors: De Pasquale Concetta , Pistorio Maria Luisa , Veroux Massimiliano , Moretta Tania , Rodolico Margherita Stefania , Monte Ines Paola , Barbagallo Noemi , Zanoli Luca , Faro Denise Cristiana , Giaquinta Alessia , Maria Giambra Martina , Veroux Pierfrancesco
Published: February 2025

Background

The present study aimed to investigate personality characteristics and psychopathological symptoms in patients with Fabry disease (FD) vs a group of individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Methods

A total of 36 patients, equally divided into patients with FD and patients with ESRD (control group), were administered the following tools: the Millon Clinical Multiaxial Inventory III (MCMI-III) to evaluate personality psychopathology and the Symptom Checklist-90-R (SCL-90-R) to assess symptoms of psychopathology.

Results

Significantly higher levels of Schizoid, Depressive, and Negativistic personality traits emerged in FD patients. Moreover, statistically significant differences in Anxiety, Interpersonal Sensitivity, Obsessive-Compulsive, Depression, Somatization, and Psychoticism dimensions of the SCL-90-R were found, with higher levels of each dimension in patients with FD than ESRD.

Conclusions

The literature, albeit limited, highlights how patients with FD are at higher risk of developing psychological distress and psychopathology than patients presenting other chronic diseases such as ESRD. Using psychological therapies together with standard treatments for FD can promote condition acceptance, reduce emotional burden, and relieve psychopathological symptoms in FD patients.
Non-suicidal self-injury in adolescence: a validation of the Chinese version of the Inventory of Statements About Self-Injury in student populations
Authors: Tian Xinhe , Huang Hebin , Lu Weicong , Zhang Ruoxi , Wang Runhua , Li Xiaoyue , Li Danping , Gao Yanling , Wu Shiyun , Xu Guiyun , Shao Robin , Lin Kangguang
Published: February 2025

Background

The Inventory of Statements About Self-Injury (ISAS) is a widely utilized scale for evaluating the 13 potential functions that motivate non-suicidal self-injury(NSSI) behaviors. However, its validation for assessing such motivation in a Chinese context is still lacking.

Aims

The main objective was to access the validation of ISAS as an instrument in Chinese young population.

Method

A total of 1,106 completed online self-report questionnaires were collected, with 167 reporting a history NSSI. The age range of these individuals was 12 to 24 years old, comprising 74 female and 93 male participants. The factor structure and construct validity were calculated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). The correlations of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9), the Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7), the Brief Self-Control Scale (BSCS), the Self-Rating Idea of Suicide Scale (SIOSS), and the Chinese version of the ISAS were tested using bivariate correlation analyses.

Results

The internal consistencies of the Chinese version of the ISAS were good to excellent, with 0.788- 0.950 and 0.80-0.949 in the sports group and the junior high school group, respectively. EFA and CFA exhibited a good two-factor structure model (NFI = 0.942, CFI = 0.974, IFI = 0.974, RMSEA = 0.068, SRMR = 0.043, CMIN/DF = 1.762). Moreover, the scores of the functions of the ISAS were correlated with depression (r=0.208, p<0.01), anxiety (r=0.223, p<0.01), suicidal ideation (r=0.322, p<0.01), and low self-control (r=-0.230, p<0.01).

Conclusion

This study validates the Chinese ISAS as a reliable NSSI measure, identifies a two-factor structure, and aims to inform targeted interventions and future research on self-injury behaviors among Chinese adolescents.
The battered who commit homicide; an overview of battered person’s syndrome and battered child syndrome in Canadian and American contexts
Authors: Mendonca Oreen , Patel Mitesh
Published: February 2025

Battered Person’s Syndrome (BPS) is a set of psychological symptoms experienced by victims who are victims of intimate partner violence. BPS may inform a defense in homicide cases wherein battered individuals killed their abusers. Similarly, Battered Child Syndrome (BCS) can be used as evidence to support a claim of self-defence wherein the child is the aggressor, and a care provider is the victim. Forensic psychiatrists provide expert opinion evidence regarding such claims of self-defence. A psycholegal opinion, often provided by forensic psychiatrists, can serve to identify factors that influence culpability and understanding of one’s actions at the material time of the offenses. Both BPS and BCS can be considered in the context of such assessments, however, further description and comparison of these syndromes is lacking in the current literature. The purpose of this article is to provide a succinct examination of the psycholegal parameters related to BPS and BCS in the Canadian and American contexts and to provide a perspective on how both can be compared. We also highlight several landmark cases in both Canada and the United States and provide a brief overview of the imperative role that forensic psychiatrists play in the development of such cases.
Malaria and missed school days: exploring school absenteeism patterns and local strategies in Odisha, India
Authors: Jabir Muhammed , Panigrahi Dilip K. , Baig Muhammad M. , Balakrishnan Vijayakumar , Panda Prasant K. , Kumar Ashwani , Rahi Manju , Shriram Ananganallur N.
Published: February 2025

Background

Malaria continues to pose a significant global health challenge, disproportionately affecting children. While its effects on physical health are well-documented, the impact on education, particularly school absenteeism, remains less understood. This study aimed to explore the influence of malaria on school absenteeism in Odisha, India.

Methods

A mixed-methods study was conducted in four southern districts of Odisha from September 2023 to February 2024. This involved a retrospective analysis of school attendance registers from five primary schools and qualitative interviews with 25 school teachers. Statistical analysis was performed using SATA 14.1. Mixed effects logistic regression analysis was used to determine the predictive factors of absenteeism with independent variables such as year, area of school and class. Qualitative data from interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed.

Results

The study evaluated absenteeism among 832 children from Class 1 to Class 5 across four academic years (2016–2020), with schools averaging 185 working days annually. While absenteeism rates varied by school, the proportion of students with yearly absenteeism rates of ≥30% remained relatively stable, ranging from 6 to 12.1%. Average absenteeism ranged from 11.5 days in the academic year 2016–2017 to a peak of 22.6 days in 2018–2019. Logistic regression analysis revealed no significant association between malaria endemicity and absenteeism patterns. Schools employed several malaria prevention and case management strategies, including health education, long-lasting insecticidal nets (LLINs), vector control, screening, testing, and on-site treatment. However, resource constraints and cultural barriers continue to pose challenges.

Conclusion

Despite a decline in malaria cases in the study area, school absenteeism persists due to factors beyond malaria. Future interventions should address these broader socio-cultural and logistical issues to effectively manage absenteeism and improve educational outcomes in malaria-endemic regions.
Disposal practice and determinants of unused medicines among the general public in Gondar City, Northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yohannes Lamrot , Tegegne Addisu Afrassa , Genet Gebremariam , Workie Limenh Liknaw , Mohammed Seid Abdulwase , Alemayehu Tekletsadik Tekleslassie , Ayenew Wondim , Simegn Wudneh
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The inappropriate disposal of unused medicines poses significant risks to public health and the environment. Gondar City, located in Northwest Ethiopia, is not exempt from this problem. However, little is known about the current disposal practices and the determinants influencing those practices in this specific context.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the disposal practices of unused medicines among the general public in Gondar City and to identify the factors that influence these practices.

Methods

A cross-sectional study design was employed to collect data from the general public in Gondar City from July 30 to August 30, 2023. Data were collected through interviews using a structured questionnaire to gather information on disposal practices and determinants that could influence disposal practices.

Results

A total of 845 respondents were involved in this study with a response rate of 93%. 56.9% of the respondents had poor disposal practices. Lower educational status [AOR = 2.76 (CI: 1.59, 4.79)]; p < 0.01, having a chronic disease [AOR = 1.79 (CI: 1.22, 2.64)]; p < 0.05, and poor knowledge toward disposal practices [AOR = 1.56 (CI: 1.12, 2.18)]; p < 0.05 were identified as significant determinants influencing poor disposal practices.

Conclusion

There is an improper disposal practice of unused medicines in the study area. Lower educational status, having a chronic disease, and poor knowledge toward disposal practices were found to be significant factors. The finding underscores the need for targeted interventions to improve the safe disposal of unused medicines in Gondar City. Comprehensive educational campaigns should be launched to increase public awareness about the risks of improper disposal and promote safe disposal practices. The establishment of accessible and convenient disposal facilities or return programs should be prioritized.
Regional COVID-19 measures and effects on subjective well-being in Germany: observing trends over time with data from a large population survey
Authors: Finne Emily , Nowak Anna Christina , Razum Oliver
Published: February 2025

Background

COVID-19 measures in Germany varied during the pandemic, and it seems natural that in addition to factors such as incidence, health system capacity, etc., these interventions and their social and economic consequences had an impact on the evolution of the population’s well-being. Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a suspicion that the health burden would fall mainly on population groups with a lower socio-economic status, and that COVID-19, including the policy measures, could therefore contribute to increasing social inequalities in health. We examine several indicators of well-being over the course of the pandemic, analyze the effect of the stringency of the measures on subjective well-being and the extent to which certain social groups were particularly affected.

Methods

Our analyses are based on 2020 and 2021 data from the German Socio-Economic Panel (SOEP), complemented by various regional indicators, including the COVID-19 measures. Data on subjective well-being during the pandemic phases were regressed on the phases, socio-demographic, economic and health-related indicators, stringency of measures and other regional indicators in multi-level models with the district as the top level. Up to N = 29,871 observations in 401 districts were included.

Results

Overall, there was little decline in well-being up to the end of the observation period, and even some increase. When the effect of the stringency of the measures was taken into account, the changes were partially attenuated. However, stringency had little direct effect on well-being. People with disabilities and chronic pre-existing conditions were particularly affected by a reduction in well-being. In some cases, COVID-19 measures had slightly different effects in these groups.

Conclusion

The effects of socio-economic indicators were not strong enough to suggest that lower social status is generally associated with a negative trend in well-being. According to our results, people with disabilities and chronic diseases, including severe obesity, should be given more attention in the future. A change in time-related outcomes when considering COVID-19 measures could indicate adjustment effects on well-being.
Roles for epigenetics in wood formation and stress response intrees–from basic biology to forest management
Authors: Groover Andrew
Published: February 2025

Annual model and crop species have been the subject of most epigenetic studies for plants. In contrast to annuals, forest trees persist on natural landscapes and experience environmental variation within and across seasons, years, and decades or even centuries. Most forest trees species are undomesticated and typically grown on variable landscapes with no irrigation or application of agricultural chemicals. Forest trees must thus rely on their inherent ability to alter growth and physiology to mitigate the effects of changing abiotic and biotic stressors. Like other plants, trees have mechanisms encoded in their genomic DNA sequence that can respond directly to stress events such as drought or heat. Hypothetically, it would be highly advantageous to join these mechanisms with a dynamic “memory” of past exposure to stress. It is now well established that annual model and crop plants can establish epigenetic-based memory of stress events that support more rapid and robust response to stress in the future. Here, evidence is discussed for epigenetic regulation and “memory” in two fundamental biological processes in trees, wood formation and abiotic stress response. Wood formation is an ideal trait for epigenetic research in trees, as wood formation is highly responsive to environmental conditions and includes multiple rapid developmental changes as cells adopt distinct fates within complex tissues. This is followed by a discussion of research needs that would provide the foundation for new epigenetic applications for forestry.
Enabling good transition processes from child to adult medical care: a study protocol
Authors: Ravnbøl Camilla Ida , Altweck Laura , Schmidt Silke , Bistrup Lene , Borgwardt Stefan , Arnfred Sidse Marie , Jeppesen Pia , von Bismarck Philipp , Nellegaard Julie Bork , Prehn-Kristensen Alexander , Colic Ada
Published: February 2025

Hundreds of patients each year transfer from child to adult medical care when they become adults. The transfer in health care comes with a risk of interrupted treatment or a failure to follow treatment properly, which can have serious consequences for the physical and mental health and well-being of the young person, and for their future ability to engage in education, work or social life. The Child to Adult Transition project (CAT) is a cross-country and inter-disciplinary innovation and research project that aims to address this pertinent topic. CAT focuses on young people in rheumatology and mental health care in Denmark and Germany and develops transition programmes to support young persons and their parents in the transfer from child to adult medical care, while exploring how young people experience and reflect on this transition and their experiences of the CAT programs. The CAT study has a longitudinal, mixed-methods study design, surveying young patients (age 15–25 years), their parents/guardians, and health-care professionals via interviews (individual or group), field observations, and/or online surveys. At baseline, interviews will be conducted with 24–68 adolescents and young adults, 24–68 parents/guardians, and 24–68 health-care professionals in both countries and across disciplines. 13–14 observations will be made in three settings and, at baseline, 400 adolescents and young adults will receive the survey. Interviews and surveys will be repeated after six and 12 months. The study will focus on topics such as everyday life as a young patient, transition experiences, somatic, and mental health, and quality of life. The CAT project period runs from January 2023 to December 2025. Recruitment to the CAT study is ongoing and all ethical approval have been obtained from the different departmental sites and ethical committees. The project combines different medical disciplines (child, adolescent and adult rheumatology and mental health), academic disciplines (medicine, anthropology and psychology) as well as countries (Germany, Denmark). It also combines person-groups (young persons, parents, professionals) and methods (interviews, observations, surveys). This approach provides new perspectives on the medical, psychological and anthropological aspects of the complex nature of the medical transfer. The findings will feed into the guidelines on transitional care, can also be used in other medical disciplines, and can be prepared as popular publications and other media enabling a broader audience to be reached.

The study protocol is registered on the Open Science Framework: https://osf.io/vdy9p
Assessing the impact of social housing on urban regeneration in South African cities
Authors: Ngema Noxolo N. , Bokhari Ahmed , Mbanga Sijekula L.
Published: February 2025

Urban regeneration in South Africa addresses historical spatial inequalities and the growing demand for affordable housing. This study examines the impact of social housing on urban regeneration, with a particular focus on the role of the Social Housing Regulatory Authority (SHRA). The SHRA’s mandate to create integrated urban environments with well-located, affordable, and quality rental homes is central to efforts aimed at promoting spatial justice, economic integration, and social development. A qualitative analysis was conducted, involving a review of policy documents, case studies of key social housing projects, and an evaluation of stakeholder reports from provinces such as Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, and the Eastern Cape. This multi-method approach facilitated an in-depth understanding of the SHRA’s strategies including regulation, investment, and market transformation and their effectiveness in advancing urban regeneration objectives. The findings indicate that the SHRA has significantly expanded the reach of social housing initiatives by increasing the number of regulated units and delivery agents. Strategic placement of projects in economically vibrant areas has contributed to urban densification and more equitable resource allocation. Moreover, social housing has alleviated financial burdens for low- to medium-income households, improved living conditions, and stimulated economic activity and job creation in the construction and real estate sectors. The study underscores that social housing is a vital instrument for urban regeneration in South Africa. The SHRA’s efforts have disrupted apartheid-era spatial patterns and promoted social mobility by fostering inclusive communities. However, challenges such as construction mafias and rental boycotts persist, highlighting the need for enhanced collaboration among stakeholders to ensure project sustainability. Overall, the integration of social housing initiatives with broader urban regeneration strategies is crucial for achieving spatial integration, economic inclusion, and long-term social development.
Evaluation of the role of green walls in enhancing outdoor thermal comfort in different morphologies of building blocks
Authors: Heydari Teymour , Yeganeh Mansour , Pourmahabadian Elham
Published: February 2025

Various research has been conducted to enhance thermal comfort as a disturbed indicator in the unbalanced development of built environments. Some researchers have focused on the form and geometry of urban blocks as influential factors. Also, some have studied the effect of greenery in urban walls on improving thermal comfort. By defining six categories and 22 subgroups of the geometry of urban blocks in Tehran, this research is focused on identifying the effect of green walls on urban blocks in Tehran and the effect on thermal comfort in summer. Different geometries were changed based on changes in the direction of wind corridors, the height of blocks, and shading. The simulation of scenarios to conduct studies has been done in ENVI-met software. The results showed that changing the building typology (even by applying green walls) was insufficient to provide outdoor thermal comfort in Tehran; however, the separate cubes scenario provided better outdoor thermal conditions. The results of this study highlighted the importance of solar shading for outdoor spaces, as well as considering adaptive opportunities in site design for landscape architects and site designers.
Impacts of 3D visualizations and virtual reality in display designs for remote monitoring of satellite operations
Authors: Buchner Savannah L. , Rindfuss Abigail , Wood Jennifer , Schaub Hanspeter , Hayman Allison P.
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Remote supervision and monitoring of autonomous systems is an important modality for future operations including spaceflight, manufacturing, and transportation. However, monitoring presents many challenges for the operator, which may be reduced through novel interfaces and display design. Virtual reality (VR) shows promise for direct control teleoperation paradigms, but it is unclear if VR is useful for future supervisory paradigms that will primarily involve monitoring systems rather than directly controlling them. This paper investigates the impacts of 3D visualizations and VR in displays for the remote monitoring of a satellite servicing mission.

Methods

Three different displays, with different degrees of 3D visualizations and immersion, are compared through human subject testing (n = 33) on factors of situation awareness, workload, usability, and subjective utility. These displays include an immersive, visualization based VR display, a non-immersive screen-based 3D visualization, and a nonimmersive, non-visualized baseline display.

Results

Visualizations improve level 2 (comprehension, p = 0.009) and level 3 (projection, p = 0.014) situation awareness, and VR reduces level 1 situation awareness (perception, p < 0.005). No differences are found among workload, usability, and utility; however, the results of subjective utility are trending towards significance (p = 0.069).

Discussion

This research indicates there are benefits to including visualizations for display design for remote monitoring of satellites, but these initial results find little evidence that VR provides additional benefits.
Factors affecting trust in Bangladesh police among urban male residents: a test on instrumental and expressive model
Authors: Hasan Md Khalid , Rumi Maruf Hasan , Ahsan Abu Hossain Muhammad
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The primary aim of this study was to examine the level of trust male residents in urban areas of Bangladesh have in the police. Additionally, the study sought to explore the various factors that influence this trust.

Method

This study employed a robust cross-sectional research design. Utilizing multi-stage sampling techniques, the survey was conducted among male respondents (aged 18 or over) through in-person interviews, and the data was collected using the Kobo Toolbox. A total of 1,108 data were collected from four city corporation areas in Dhaka, Sylhet, Khulna, and Rangpur districts, ensuring a comprehensive representation of urban areas in Bangladesh.

Results

The study revealed that male citizens in urban areas of Bangladesh have a moderate level of trust in the police. Trust in neighbors was found to be a significant and positive factor influencing trust in police. The study also found that neighborhood relative safety was positively associated with trust in police, while the perceived crime problem in the locality had a negative impact on trust in police. Furthermore, middle-aged (39–49 years old) and older men (over 50 years old) were found to have significantly lower trust in police than young adult (19–39 years old) respondents. Location was also a crucial factor, with respondents from Khulna City exhibiting substantially higher trust in the police than male residents of other cities.

Conclusion

The study underscores the need for the law enforcement agency to address the current situation. To improve public trust in the police, it is crucial that the agency increases its social media presence and launches campaigns to highlight its recent successes.
The impact of a school-based physical activity program on children's movement behaviors, aerobic fitness and motor competence: a follow up study
Authors: Bloch Moreno , Cordovil Rita , Rodrigues Luís P. , Martins Clarice , Braga Maria L. , Vale Susana , Proença Rui , Brito João , Guilherme José , Neto Carlos , Seabra André , Costa Júlio A.
Published: February 2025

Objective

This study evaluated the one-year impact of a 12-week school-based physical activity (PA) intervention, which added one extra hour of structured PA per week, on children's movement behaviors, aerobic fitness, and motor competence (MC).

Methods

A longitudinal comparison between an experimental group (EG) and a control group (CG) was conducted at baseline (PRE), mid-intervention (DUR), post-intervention (POST), and one-year follow-up (FUP). The study was conducted in a single school without randomization. Movement behaviors (accelerometry), aerobic fitness (YYIR1C), and MC (MCA battery) were assessed. Due to school changes and parental noncompliance, the sample decreased from 38 to 23 participants (EG; n = 13; CG; n = 10), a 39% dropout rate.

Results

One year post-intervention, the EG spent more time in moderate-to-vigorous PA (MVPA; + 41 min/day), less time in SED (−234 min/day), slept longer (+103 min/night), covered greater distances in the YYIR1C (+174 m), and achieved higher MC scores (+19% on the MCA battery test) compared to the CG. Although no significant differences in body weight were observed, the EG showed improved body mass index (BMI; −5 kg/m2) and a lower body fat percentage (−10%) when compared to the CG.

Conclusion

The findings indicate that the benefits of a 3-month school-based PA intervention, which included an additional hour of physical education per week, can have sustained benefits for movement behaviors, physical fitness, and MC in children one year post-intervention. However, the small sample size and lack of randomization limit the generalizability of the results. Future research should employ larger, randomized trials to better assess the long-term impact of PA interventions on children’s health and fitness outcomes.
Assessing the adoption and impact of climate-smart agricultural practices on smallholder maize farmers’ livelihoods in Sub-Saharan Africa: a systematic review
Authors: Mnukwa Minentle L. , Mdoda Lelethu , Mudhara Maxwell
Published: February 2025

Climate change threatens agricultural sustainability in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), where rain-fed farming supports millions of livelihoods. While climate-smart agriculture (CSA) offers potential solutions, comprehensive evidence synthesis regarding its adoption patterns and impacts among smallholder maize farmers remains limited. This systematic review analysed 50 peer-reviewed studies (2003–2023) using a three-stage screening process across EBSCOhost, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was employed for quality assessment of the selected studies. Regional variations in CSA adoption rates were observed (Eastern Africa 56.7%, Southern Africa 43.2%, Western Africa 38.9%), influenced by institutional and socioeconomic factors. Extension services increased adoption 2.8 times, while secure land tenure improved long-term investment by 60%. Gender disparities were evident, with female farmers showing 40–55% adoption rates compared to male farmers’ 55–70%. Economic constraints significantly impacted adoption, with high initial costs reducing uptake by 65% among resource-poor farmers, while credit access improved adoption by 45%. Critical research gaps include insufficient long-term impact studies beyond 2–3 years and inadequate analysis of gender-specific constraints. Future research should prioritize developing standardized methodologies for ecosystem service valuation, examining indigenous knowledge integration, and conducting comprehensive longitudinal studies on sustained adoption patterns. Policy recommendations emphasise integrated approaches combining institutional support, innovative financing mechanisms, and enhanced market linkages, with particular attention to gender-responsive interventions addressing multiple adoption barriers simultaneously.
Public Health Workforce Professional Development Analysis: A Human-Systems Integration for Healthy Communities
Authors: Osnat Bashkin , Orna Baron-Epel , Tomasz Bochenek , Kasia Czabanowska , Nadav Davidovitch , Jascha De Nooijer , Keren Dopelt , Mariusz Duplaga , Janas Harrington , Lore Leighton , Hagai Levine , Fiona MacLeod , Maureen Malowany , Zohar Mor , Yehuda Neumark , Leah Okenwa-Emegwa , Robert Otok , Stephanie Paillard-Borg , Maya Peled-Raz , Theodore Tulchinsky , Shira Zelber-Sagi , Paul Barach
Published: February 2025

Objectives

The healthcare landscape is challenged by emerging and severe public health threats, and fast shifting priorities. There is an urgent need to build public health workforce capacity to enable rapid adaptation and effective responses to these threats. We outline a whole system’s learning approach for analyzing public health systems in collaboration with public health leaders.

Methods

The project included: i) a system’s analysis involving a cross-sectional mixed methods approach including a quantitative investigation, interviews and focus groups of leading representatives and students from five higher education institutions providing public health training, 49 managers, and 31 stakeholders from lead public health organizations; ii) develop and implement training interventions, involving human factors tools for evaluating and developing actionable solutions.

Results

We developed and implemented three interventions: 1) An online user interface for public health professional development and collaboration; 2) A Public Health Leadership Academy; and 3) A video outreach to key stakeholders and communities using studies.

Conclusion

A holistic perspective incorporating human factors, and a systems approach provided a comprehensive understanding and approch towards the public health workforce while identifying leverage points for durable improvement.
Application of Fixed-Target Microcrystal Delivery Systems for Serial Femtosecond Crystallography at PAL-XFEL
Authors: Park Jaehyun , Nam Ki Hyun
Published: February 2025

Serial femtosecond crystallography (SFX) using X-ray free-electron lasers (XFELs) enables the determination of biological and chemical structures without radiation damage. In SFX experiments, a sample delivery system is essential for delivering numerous crystals to the X-ray interaction point in a serial and stable manner. Among the various sample delivery methods, the fixed-target (FT) sample delivery system is straightforward and widely used for collecting SFX data due to its advantages of low sample consumption and reduced physical damage to crystals during data collection. Here, we review the development of the FT sample delivery system for SFX with the Pohang Accelerator Laboratory X-ray free-electron laser (PAL-XFEL). The specifications and operational conditions of the FT-SFX sample chamber are described. The design, specifications, and applications of the one- and two-dimensional FT sample holders developed for SFX with the PAL-XFEL are also detailed. Furthermore, the applications of each FT sample delivery system are discussed. This review not only provides valuable information on the FT system used in SFX experiments with the PAL-XFEL but also offers insights into the development of FT sample delivery systems.
Genome Assembly of Arctica islandica, the Longest-Lived Non-Colonial Animal Species
Authors: Gerhard Glenn S. , Allard John B. , Kaniper Scott , Lynch Dorret , Lee Hayan , Kumar Sudhir
Published: February 2025

We report the first high-quality genome-wide assembly for Arctica islandica, the longest-lived non-colonial species, with a reported maximum life span of 507 years. The genome was assembled using short- and long-read DNA sequencing and RNA sequencing of four tissues. All assessment approaches indicated that the assembled genome is complete, contiguous, and accurate. The genome size is estimated at 1781.15 million base pairs (Mbps) with a coverage of 247.8×. The heterozygous rate was 1.15% and the repeat content 67.66%. Genome completeness evaluated by complete BUSCOs was 92.7%. The non-redundant gene set consisted of 39,509 genes with an average transcript length of 15,429 bp. More than 98% of the genes could be annotated across databases. Predicted non-coding RNAs included 801 miRNAs, 11,114 tRNAs, 909 rRNAs, and 349 snRNAs. The Arctica islandica genome, along with the assembly of genomes from other clam species, sets the stage for elucidating the molecular basis for the convergence of extreme longevity across these bivalve species.
The Significance of Probiotics in Aquaculture: A Review of Research Trend and Latest Scientific Findings
Authors: Mohammed Elshafia Ali Hamid , Ahmed Abdelhakam Esmaeil Mohamed , Kovács Béla , Pál Károly
Published: February 2025

Millions of people around the world rely on aquaculture as a major source of food. In the recent few years, probiotics have gained considerable attention as an alternative agent to antibiotics. They have been shown to play an important role in improving aquaculture species through different mechanisms, mainly disease management, improving their growth performance, and improving water quality. Consequently, this review aimed to identify the key areas of research in the global literature about the influence of probiotics on aquaculture based on the selected keywords “aquaculture” AND “probiotics” AND “growth performance” AND “disease resistance” (APGD). The meta-data of the published literature were extracted from the Web of Science (WoS) database on 23 December 2024, and then the co-authors, countries, and keywords were analyzed and visualized using VOSviewer (v. 1.6.20). The search found a remarkable number of documents, which included 175 APGD documents. The results of the bibliometric analysis of the global literature reveal a substantial increase in the publication of APGD documents from 2019 to 2024. Asia, particularly China (32.3% of documents), has emerged as a leader of APGD publications, followed by Iran (8.67%), India (8.01%), Malaysia (7.5%), and Spain (7.5%), respectively. Keyword analysis revealed the prevalence of disease resistance (length = 1793), probiotics (1348), aquaculture (1169), and growth performance (913) as the most impactful keywords based on the WoS database. This could indicate that most of the APGD documents were focused on disease resistance and probiotics relationships. In addition, an extensive review of the recent literature showed that probiotics have demonstrated a remarkable efficacy in improving the growth performance, feed utilization efficiency, disease prevention, and water quality management in various aquaculture species under different aquaculture systems when used as feed or water additives for 30–90 days. It can be concluded that Asia is the lead continent in aquaculture probiotics research, with a significant increase in APGD documents in the last 5 years. Probiotics played a major role in improving aquatic species. This research aims to provide valuable insight into the use of probiotics in aquaculture and highlights the need for further research to fully understand their benefits and mechanisms of action.
Phenolic Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Edible Flowers: Insights from Synergistic Effects and Multivariate Analysis
Authors: Breda Cristiana , Nascimento Amanda , Meghwar Parkash , Lisboa Hugo , Aires Alfredo , Rosa Eduardo , Ferreira Luís , Barros Ana Novo
Published: February 2025

The phenolic composition and antioxidant activity of four edible flowers—Orange marigold, yellow marigold, rose geranium, and Rosa de Santa Teresinha—were evaluated to explore their potential as natural antioxidants. Rosa de Santa Teresinha exhibited the highest total phenol content (83.34 ± 2.09 mg GA g−1 DW) and ortho-diphenol content (168.91 ± 0.15 mg GA g−1 DW), while the marigolds showed significantly lower levels (~17 mg GA g−1 DW for total phenols). Antioxidant activity, determined via ABTS, DPPH, and FRAP assays, ranged from 0.11 to 0.96 mmol Trolox g−1 DW, with rose geranium and Rosa de Santa Teresinha achieving the highest values. Theoretical antioxidant contributions, calculated based on the identified phenolic compounds, accounted for only a small fraction of the measured activity, with observed values exceeding predictions by factors of 56 to 1416, indicating the presence of synergistic interactions and additional bioactive compounds. Multivariate analyses (PCA and PLS regression) identified luteolin-7-O-glucoside and quercetin-3-O-galactoside as primary contributors to antioxidant capacity. These results underscore the importance of synergistic effects in edible flowers and highlight their potential as functional ingredients for nutraceutical applications.
Evaluation of Anti-Inflammatory Effects of Six Ginsenosides and Rg1 Regulation of Macrophage Polarization and Metabolites to Alleviate Colitis
Authors: Qu Qian , Zhang Wenbo , Xuan Zhaoying , Chen Rong , Ma Yimu , Huang Yiwen , Hu Yifan , Lin Yulin , Liu Mengjie , Lv Weijie , Guo Shining
Published: February 2025

In ginseng, several ginsenosides have been demonstrated to alleviate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced colitis, especially the six ginsenosides in this study. However, which ginsenoside has the most potent anti-inflammatory effect and may be selected as a promising candidate for the treatment of colitis remains unclear. A cell inflammation model was induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) for 12 h and mouse colitis was induced by sterile water containing DSS lasting seven days. Cytokines associated with inflammation, pyroptosis, and ferroptosis were assessed by quantitative real-time PCR (qPCR), the level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and changes in macrophage polarization were tested by flow cytometry, and analysis of intestinal metabolites by LC-MS/MS was performed. The results in this study displayed that among the six ginsenosides, Rf, Rg1, and Rg3 were the most effective in reducing LPS-induced inflammation in cells. Compared with Rg3 and Rf, Rg1 was superior in restoring body weight and the length of colon, decreasing the disease activity index (DAI), and reducing splenomegaly and colon inflammation. Meanwhile, Rg1 significantly decreased the expression of M1-related pro-inflammation cytokines and increased the expression of M2-related anti-inflammation cytokines. Rg1 also decreased CD86+M1 macrophages and polarized them towards CD206+M2 macrophages. The 700 targeted gut metabolite assays revealed that Rg1 treatment brought the metabolite composition closer to that of DSS-naive mice, while six key metabolites, including dodecanoylcarnitine, isobutyric acid, and decanoylcarnitine, and so on, all were significantly reversed. Our results demonstrated that among the six ginsenosides, Rg1 had the most extraordinary anti-inflammatory effect in LPS-induced cells and DSS-induced mice, and, more importantly, it blunted colitis through regulating macrophage polarization and intestinal metabolites.
The Impact of RObotic Assisted Rehabilitation on Trunk Control in Patients with Severe Acquired Brain Injury (ROAR-sABI)
Authors: Castelli Letizia , Loreti Claudia , Malizia Anna Maria , Iacovelli Chiara , Renzi Sabina , Fioravanti Luca , Amoruso Vincenza , Paolasso Ilaria , Di Caro Francesca , Padua Luca , Giovannini Silvia
Published: February 2025

Daily activities require balance and control posture. A severe Acquired Brain Injury (sABI) disrupts movement organization, control and execution, affecting trunk control and balance. Trunk control therapy for difficult patients requires known and novel methods. This study analyzes how hunova® robotic platform therapy affects sABI patients’ sitting balance and trunk control. Twenty-six sABI patients were randomized into the experimental group (HuG) that employed hunova® for trunk control in addition to traditional therapy and the control group (CoG) that received only conventional rehabilitation. Clinical assessments were performed for trunk, balance, cognitive and motor performance, disability, autonomy, quality of life, and fatigue. Both static and dynamic sitting balance and trunk control were assessed with hunova®. HuG and CoG were significant in intragroup analysis. Intergroup comparisons showed substantial differences in trunk control, affected side motor function, autonomy, quality of life, and fatigue. Only patients with HuG improved statistically in the instrumental assessment of trunk control and sitting balance. Between-group analysis showed that a statistically significant difference emerged in COP path and trunk movement. The study found effectiveness and adaptability of hunova® for trunk control rehabilitation, showing improvement in static and dynamic trunk control, motor function, autonomy, quality of life and fatigue in sABI patients. Registration: NCT05280587.
Planning the Airport Terminal Facilities Based on Traffic Demand Forecast and Dominant Share of Airline Business Model: Case Study of Pula Airport
Authors: Pivac Jelena , Štimac Igor , Bartulović Dajana , Lonjak Ivan
Published: February 2025

Today’s airport passenger terminals are required to be planned and designed to ensure flexibility for future adjustments at minimal cost, but also to respond to changes in demand and/or needs of passengers, airlines, and aircraft. To achieve these goals for airports and their operators, planning must be flexible and balanced. Recent data show that the airline business model of low-cost carriers continues to grow, especially after the pandemic. The analysis of the passenger traffic demand and shares of airline business models against the capacity of the existing airport terminal facilities can indicate whether certain adjustments are needed to meet the future conditions. In this research, forecasting of traffic demand and shares of airline business models was made. The forecasting tools of Python and MS Excel were used. Based on traffic demand forecasts and the dominant airline business model, guidelines for future airport terminal planning were proposed for the case-study airport. An example of the adjustment of airport terminal facilities at Pula Airport passenger terminal is provided using AutoCAD, according to forecasted traffic demand and the dominant share of low-cost carriers.
Vibration Suppression of Collaborative Robot Servo with Dual Encoders
Authors: Xiang Qinjian , Chen Chao , Jiang Yadong
Published: February 2025

In general, the joints of collaborative robots are equipped with reducers that exhibit inherent elasticity rather than pure rigidness. Consequently, for joint control in robotic systems, the speed fluctuation observed on the motor side does not fully represent the speed fluctuation on the reducer side. The speed fluctuations are strongly correlated with joint vibrations, particularly in a six-axis collaborative robot structure, where the second axis experiences the most significant load variation and poses the greatest control challenges. To address this issue while considering cost-effectiveness, one potential solution is to install an additional encoder solely on the second axis of the collaborative robot, which could enhance the overall performance of the system. Alternatively, adding an encoder to each axis of the reducer would yield superior results, albeit at a higher cost. This paper proposes a vibration suppression strategy based on dual encoders, where one encoder is installed on the motor side and the other on the reducer side. The ratio of the measured speeds from these two encoders corresponds to the reduction ratio of the reducer. By integrating the data from both encoders into the servo control, the vibration of collaborative robots can be effectively mitigated. This paper analyzes the transfer function of the entire system. Experimental results demonstrate that, compared to joints equipped with only a single encoder on the motor side, the dual-encoder configuration significantly reduces speed fluctuation on the reducer side under various operating conditions. These findings validate the correctness and feasibility of the proposed dual-encoder vibration suppression strategy.
The New Paradigm of Deepfake Detection at the Text Level
Authors: Rosca Cosmina-Mihaela , Stancu Adrian , Iovanovici Emilian Marian
Published: February 2025

The world is currently facing the issue of text authenticity in different areas. The implications of generated text can raise concerns about manipulation. When a photo of a celebrity is posted alongside an impactful message, it can generate outrage, hatred, or other manipulative beliefs. Numerous artificial intelligence tools use different techniques to determine whether a text is artificial intelligence-generated or authentic. However, these tools fail to accurately determine cases in which a text is written by a person who uses patterns specific to artificial intelligence tools. For these reasons, this article presents a new approach to the issue of deepfake texts. The authors propose methods to determine whether a text is associated with a specific person by using specific written patterns. Each person has their own written style, which can be identified in the average number of words, the average length of the words, the ratios of unique words, and the sentiments expressed in the sentences. These features are used to develop a custom-made written-style machine learning model named the custom deepfake text model. The model’s results show an accuracy of 99%, a precision of 97.83%, and a recall of 90%. A second model, the anomaly deepfake text model, determines whether the text is associated with a specific author. For this model, an attempt was made to determine anomalies at the level of textual characteristics that are assumed to be associated with particular patterns of a certain author. The results show an accuracy of 88.9%, a precision of 100%, and a recall of 89.9%. The findings outline the possibility of using the model to determine if a text is associated with a certain author. The paper positions itself as a starting point for identifying deepfakes at the text level.