bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine Estimation of Water Quality in the Yangtze River Basin Based on a Geographically Weighted Random Forest Regression Model
Authors: Deng Fuliang , Liu Wenhui , Sun Mei , Xu Yanxue , Wang Bo , Liu Wei , Yuan Ying , Cui Lei
Published: February 2025

Water quality evaluation usually relies on limited state-controlled monitoring data, making it challenging to fully capture variations across an entire basin over time and space. The fine estimation of water quality in a spatial context presents a promising solution to this issue; however, traditional analyses often ignore spatial non-stationarity between variables. To solve the above-mentioned problems in water quality mapping research, we took the Yangtze River as our study subject and attempted to use a geographically weighted random forest regression (GWRFR) model to couple massive station observation data and auxiliary data to carry out a fine estimation of water quality. Specifically, we first utilized state-controlled sections’ water quality monitoring data as input for the GWRFR model to train and map six water quality indicators at a 30 m spatial resolution. We then assessed various geographical and environmental factors contributing to water quality and identified spatial differences. Our results show accurate predictions for all indicators: ammonia nitrogen (NH3-N) had the lowest accuracy (R2 = 0.61, RMSE = 0.13), and total nitrogen (TN) had the highest (R2 = 0.74, RMSE = 0.48). The mapping results reveal total nitrogen as the primary pollutant in the Yangtze River basin. Chemical oxygen demand and the permanganate index were mainly influenced by natural factors, while total nitrogen and total phosphorus were impacted by human activities. The spatial distribution of critical influencing factors shows significant clustering. Overall, this study demonstrates the fine spatial distribution of water quality and provides insights into the influencing factors that are crucial for the comprehensive management of water environments.
Identification and Analysis of Wind Shear Within the Transiting Frontal System at Xining International Airport Using Lidar
Authors: Zhao Shijun , Yang Chao , Shan Yulong , Zhu Fei
Published: February 2025

The principal factor contributing to the restricted accuracy of wind shear detection resides in the rapid oscillations of the wind field and the intricate characteristics of wind shear. The abrupt alterations in wind speed and direction over a short span pose a formidable challenge for conventional detection techniques to precisely capture and expeditiously analyze this phenomenon. In this study, three algorithms were employed to analyze wind shear within the frontal system at Xining International Airport on 5 April 2023, and the same analytical approach was applied to three additional paradigmatic cases. Initially, the slope characteristics of the Lidar signal were utilized to ascertain the existence and intensity of wind shear by assessing the rate of variation of the wind field parameters along a specific trajectory. Secondly, the S-factor algorithm was applied to detect wind shear. This algorithm revolves around particular mathematical relationships and statistical measures within the wind field data. By taking into account multiple variables and their mutual interactions, an S-factor value was computed to signify the strength of wind shear. Furthermore, an enhanced F-factor algorithm was found upon scrutinizing the identical wind field data, as they all detected a substantial intensification in wind shear intensity prior to and after the issuance of the voice report. This evinces that despite the differences in sensitivity, all three algorithms are able to capture the general trend of wind shear fluctuations during the passage of the frontal system.
Parameter Design for Inter-Satellite Laser Link Acquisition Under Weak Light Conditions
Authors: Zhao Mengyang , Shen Jia , Wang Juan , Li Pan , Gao Ruihong , Luo Ziren
Published: February 2025

For the Taiji program or other LISA-like space-based gravitational wave (GW) detection missions, establishing laser links is a prerequisite for entering the normal science mode. There has been a lack of in-depth research on inter-satellite link acquisition under weak light and low-speed conditions. In this paper, we comprehensively analyze the impact of key parameters, including scan speed, track width, acquisition camera integration time, and jitter, on the acquisition process. By introducing laser spot location error under weak light conditions, we derive an analytical expression for the acquisition failure probability. Focusing on variations in scan speed and track width and carefully selecting the appropriate acquisition camera integration time, we then simulate the actual acquisition process to closely replicate real conditions. Analytical results of the acquisition failure probability align closely with the simulation results. Under the Taiji program’s parameter settings, the scan speed is set to 3.31 μrad/s, the track width to 0.87 μrad, and the integration time to 800ms. These parameters are optimized to minimize the mean acquisition time over multiple scans, resulting in a single link acquisition time of 223.77s. The analytical model can be used for the parameter design of inter-satellite laser link acquisition under weak light conditions.
A New Algorithm Based on the Phytoplankton Absorption Coefficient for Red Tide Monitoring in the East China Sea via a Geostationary Ocean Color Imager (GOCI)
Authors: Xu Xiaohui , Huang Yaqin , Chen Jian , Zeng Zhi
Published: February 2025

Rapid and accurate dynamic monitoring and quantitative analysis of red tide disasters are of significant practical importance to national economic development. Remote sensing technology is an effective means for monitoring red tides. This paper utilizes GOCI satellite data and employs a quasi-analytical algorithm (QAA) to retrieve the spectral curves of phytoplankton absorption coefficients. On the basis of a detailed analysis of the differences in the spectral curves of the phytoplankton absorption coefficients between red tide and non-red tide waters, we establish a red tide identification algorithm for the East China Sea on the basis of phytoplankton absorption coefficients. The algorithm is applied to multiple red tide events in the East China Sea. The results indicate that this algorithm can effectively determine the occurrence locations of red tides and extract relevant information about them.
Deep Learning-Based Algorithm for Road Defect Detection
Authors: Li Shaoxiang , Zhang Dexiang
Published: February 2025

With the increasing demand for road defect detection, existing deep learning methods have made significant progress in terms of accuracy and speed. However, challenges remain, such as insufficient detection precision for detection precision for road defect recognition and issues of missed or false detections in complex backgrounds. These issues reduce detection reliability and hinder real-world deployment. To address these challenges, this paper proposes an improved YOLOv8-based model, RepGD-YOLOV8W. First, it replaces the C2f module in the GD mechanism with the improved C2f module based on RepViTBlock to construct the Rep-GD module. This improvement not only maintains high detection accuracy but also significantly enhances computational efficiency. Subsequently, the Rep-GD module was used to replace the traditional neck part of the model, thereby improving multi-scale feature fusion, particularly for detecting small targets (e.g., cracks) and large targets (e.g., potholes) in complex backgrounds. Additionally, the introduction of the Wise-IoU loss function further optimized the bounding box regression task, enhancing the model’s stability and generalization. Experimental results demonstrate that the improved REPGD-YOLOV8W model achieved a 2.4% increase in mAP50 on the RDD2022 dataset. Compared with other mainstream methods, this model exhibits greater robustness and flexibility in handling road defects of various scales.
BiFFN: Bi-Frequency Guided Feature Fusion Network for Visible–Infrared Person Re-Identification
Authors: Cao Xingyu , Ding Pengxin , Li Jie , Chen Mei
Published: February 2025

Visible–infrared person re-identification (VI-ReID) aims to minimize the modality gaps of pedestrian images across different modalities. Existing methods primarily focus on extracting cross-modality features from the spatial domain, which often limits the comprehensive extraction of useful information. Compared with conventional approaches that either focus on single-frequency components or employ simple multi-branch fusion strategies, our method fundamentally addresses the modality discrepancy through systematic frequency-space co-learning. To address this limitation, we propose a novel bi-frequency feature fusion network (BiFFN) that effectively extracts and fuses features from both high- and low-frequency domains and spatial domain features to reduce modality gaps. The network introduces a frequency-spatial enhancement (FSE) module to enhance feature representation across both domains. Additionally, the deep frequency mining (DFM) module optimizes cross-modality information utilization by leveraging distinct features of high- and low-frequency features. The cross-frequency fusion (CFF) module further aligns low-frequency features and fuses them with high-frequency features to generate middle features that incorporate critical information from each modality. To refine the distribution of identity features in the common space, we develop a unified modality center (UMC) loss, which promotes a more balanced inter-modality distribution while preserving discriminative identity information. Extensive experiments demonstrate that the proposed BiFFN achieves state-of-the-art performance in VI-ReID. Specifically, our method achieved a Rank-1 accuracy of 77.5% and an mAP of 75.9% on the SYSU-MM01 dataset under the all-search mode. Additionally, it achieved a Rank-1 accuracy of 58.5% and an mAP of 63.7% on the LLCM dataset under the IR-VIS mode. These improvements verify that our model, with the integration of feature fusion and the incorporation of frequency domains, significantly reduces modality gaps and outperforms previous methods.
Conformity to Female Gender Norms and Its Influence on Psychological Risk in Spanish Climacteric Women: A Descriptive Study
Authors: Pérez Inmaculada , Cárdaba-García Rosa M. , Velasco-Gonzalez Veronica , Cárdaba-García Inés , Durantez-Fernández Carlos , Muñoz-del Caz Alba , Soto-Cámara Raúl , Aparicio-García Marta Evelia , Madrigal Miguel , Pérez-Pérez Lucía
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: The climacteric phase is a crucial period in a woman’s life, due to the changes that affect both her physical and psychological well-being. This study aims to explore the psychological risks associated with the climacteric period in Spanish women, evaluating the influence of conformity to female gender norms. (2) Methods: A descriptive correlational study was conducted with 429 women, using surveys to assess psychological risk (GHQ-12) and conformity to gender norms (CFNI-45). The sample was recruited from central Spain, covering women aged 45–64 years. (3) Results: 20% of the women showed signs or suspicion of psychological pathology, with a higher prevalence in younger women. Participants displayed greater conformity to gender norms related to domestic chores, but less conformity to norms of sexual fidelity and thinness. Health perception was identified as significantly influencing psychological risk and conformity to the norm of thinness, acting as a moderator in this relationship. (4) Conclusions: The study indicates that age and conformity to female gender norms influence psychological risk during the climacteric phase. Younger women and those with greater conformity to the norm of thinness exhibited higher psychological vulnerability. This highlights the need for interventions that address these factors in order to promote emotional well-being and a positive perception of health during this stage of life.
Psychological Needs in Spanish Pregnant Women During the Transition to Motherhood: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Catalá Patricia , Peñacoba Cecilia , Écija Carmen , Gutiérrez Lorena , Meireles Livia Gomes Viana
Published: February 2025

Background: Motherhood involves significant identity transformation, encompassing physical, emotional, and social changes that can create tensions between a woman’s previous identity and her new maternal identity. In Spain, cultural expectations of motherhood can intensify this conflict, affecting the transition to the role of mother. This study explores the experiences and needs of Spanish women during the perinatal period, identifying common concerns and cultural particularities. Methods: A qualitative design using focus groups was employed. Thirty-three women from the Community of Madrid participated, with an average age of 28.42 years. Four focus groups were conducted: one with women in the third trimester of pregnancy, one with women in the early postpartum period (0–5 months), one with women in the late postpartum period (6–12 months), and one mixed group. Semi-structured questions guided the discussions, and thematic analysis was used to analyze the data. Findings: Nine main themes were identified: birth process, emotional management, acceptance of physical and mental changes, breastfeeding, sleep management, attachment and bonding, maternal identity, specialized resources, and setting limits. Key findings include the importance of mental and physical preparation for birth, managing emotions, and accepting bodily changes. Participants highlighted the need for emotional support, accurate information, and community resources. Conclusions: This study emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive perinatal support programs that provide tools for prenatal education, pain management, emotional support, and identity transition, integrating women’s prior identity to facilitate a harmonious transition to motherhood.
Coupling Coordination Analysis and Spatiotemporal Heterogeneity Between Green Space Quality and Economic Development: A Case Study of the Yangtze River Delta in China
Authors: Pan Xueting , Zhao Jialing
Published: February 2025

The role of green spaces in ecological civilization construction has been increasingly recognized, particularly due to their multifaceted attributes and significant impact on economic development. Based on data from 2015 to 2020, this study constructs an evaluation index system to analyze the spatiotemporal evolution of green space quality and its coupling coordination with economic development in the Yangtze River Delta (YRD), focusing on three core dimensions: green space quantity, supply potential, and accessibility. The results indicate that green space quality in the YRD exhibits a fluctuating growth trend, with notable north–south disparities. While the coupling coordination degree between green space quality and economic development has gradually improved, it remains in a state of mild imbalance or primary coupling. Grey relational analysis reveals that green space quantity has the greatest impact on economic development, though its expansion potential is limited, whereas the influence of supply potential and accessibility has significantly increased, fostering a growing equilibrium within the green space system. Based on these findings, this study recommends stabilizing green space quantity while prioritizing the enhancement of supply potential and accessibility, strengthening cross-regional ecological cooperation, maximizing the economic benefits of green spaces, and promoting high-quality green development in the region.
The Variations in Soil Microbial Communities and Their Mechanisms Along an Elevation Gradient in the Qilian Mountains, China
Authors: Bai Lili , Wang Wenying , Chen Zhe , Chen Xiaoyue , Xiong Youcai
Published: February 2025

Untangling the multiple drivers that affect biodiversity along elevation gradients is crucial for predicting the consequences of climate change on mountain ecosystems. However, the distribution patterns of microorganisms along elevation gradients have not yet been clarified, in particular when associated with strong changes in dominant species. Five typical vegetation types (i.e., coniferous forests, meadow grasslands, alpine shrubs, alpine meadows, and sparse vegetation of limestone flats) from contrasting vegetation belts were selected to explore the influence of elevation gradients on soil microbial communities. The results showed that Actinobacteriota and Proteobacteria were the dominant bacterial phyla. Ascomycota and Basidiomycota were the prevalent fungal phyla. Soil bacterial alpha diversity increased with increasing elevation, while soil fungal alpha diversity showed an obvious mid-elevation pattern. The beta diversity of the bacterial and fungal communities reflected a clear spatial niche-differentiation, and indicated that herbaceous plants affected soil bacterial communities while shrubs preferred soil fungal communities. A correlation analysis showed that environmental factors had different contributions to the composition and diversity of soil microbial communities. Soil bacteria were primarily affected by soil properties, whereas fungi were affected by vegetation. The research results can improve the prediction of soil microbial ecological processes and patterns related to elevation, and provide a theoretical basis for maintaining the sustainable development of soil microbial biodiversity under the background of global change.
The Seasonal Characteristics of the Wind Conditions and Turbidity for Lake-Type Raw Water and the Development of a Turbidity Prediction Model
Authors: Yao Xinyu , Zhang Yiping
Published: February 2025

Shallow lakes are important drinking water sources, but are easily affected by wind. Turbidity is an indicator that fluctuates dramatically with changes in wind and is affected not only by the instantaneous wind speed but also by the wind direction, duration, etc. The Weibull distribution was introduced to describe the distributions of the wind conditions and turbidity during a seasonal period. The relationship between the mean wind-power density and the corresponding turbidity reached 0.8, which showed a relatively strong correlation. A turbidity prediction model was built by the random forest algorithm and was fed with the mean wind-power density and temperature. The results indicated that nearly half of the test samples had REs less than 20%, which was enough for waterworks to adjust the dosage in advance. The findings can be used to develop turbidity prediction models using meteorological forecast data and provide a reference for waterworks with shallow lakes as sources.
Curvature-Induced Electrical Properties of Two-Dimensional Electrons on Carbon Nanotube Springs
Authors: Charoenpakdee Jakkapong , Hutem Artit , Boonchui Sutee
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the mechanisms driving current generation, power output, and charge storage in carbon nanotube springs under mechanical strain, addressing the gap between experimental observations and theoretical modeling, particularly in asymmetric electrical responses. Leveraging the Dirac equation in curved spacetime, we analyze how curvature-induced scalar and pseudo-gauge potentials shape two-dimensional electron gases confined to carbon nanotube springs. We incorporate applied mechanical strain by introducing time-dependent variations in the Lamé coefficient and curvature parameters, enabling the analysis of mechanical deformation’s influence on electrical properties. Our model clarifies asymmetric electrical responses during stretching and compression cycles and explains how strain-dependent power outputs arise from the interplay between mechanical deformation and curvature effects. Additionally, we demonstrate mechanisms by which strain influences charge redistribution within the helically coiled structure. We develop a new equivalent circuit model linking mechanical deformation directly to electronic behavior, bridging theoretical physics with practical electromechanical applications. The analysis reveals asymmetric time-dependent currents, enhanced power output during stretching, and strain-dependent charge redistribution. Fourier analysis uncovers dominant frequency components (primary at Ω, harmonic at 2Ω) explaining these asymmetries. Theoretical investigations explain the mechanisms behind the curvature-driven time-dependent current source, the frequency-dependent peak power, the characteristics of open-circuit voltage with strain, and the asymmetric electrical property response under applied strain as the generated current and the charge distribution within the carbon nanotube springs. These findings highlight carbon nanotube springs applied to energy harvesting, wearable electronics, and sensing technologies.
The Generalized Characteristic Polynomial of the Km,n-Complement of a Bipartite Graph
Authors: Zhao Weiliang , Gong Helin
Published: February 2025

The generalized matrix of a graph G is defined as M(G)=A(G)−tD(G) (t∈R, and A(G) and D(G), respectively, denote the adjacency matrix and the degree matrix of G), and the generalized characteristic polynomial of G is merely the characteristic polynomial of M(G). Let Km,n be the complete bipartite graph. Then, the Km,n-complement of a subgraph G in Km,n is defined as the graph obtained by removing all edges of an isomorphic copy of G from Km,n. In this paper, by using a determinant expansion on the sum of two matrices (one of which is a diagonal matrix), a general method for computing the generalized characteristic polynomial of the Km,n-complement of a bipartite subgraph G is provided. Furthermore, when G is a graph with rank no more than 4, the explicit formula for the generalized characteristic polynomial of the Km,n-complements of G is given.
A New Species in the Canthon indigaceus Species Group (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae: Scarabaeinae) from the Mexican Pacific Coast
Authors: Rivera-Gasperín Sara Lariza , Escobar-Hernández Fernando , Arellano Lucrecia
Published: February 2025

The Canthon indigaceus species group represents a Typical Neotropical distributional pattern with wide penetration into the Mexican Transition Zone. This group consists of three species: C. (C.) indigaceus LeConte; C. (C.) chiapas Robinson; and C. (C.) chevrolati Harold. In this study, a new species for the group is described, C. (C.) cuixmala, collected along the tropical region of the Pacific coast and the Balsas River basin. The taxonomic status of members of the group were evaluated by comparing morphological characteristics and their biogeographic distributions. An updated dichotomous key is provided to separate members of this species group.
It’s a Small World After All: The Remarkable but Overlooked Diversity of Venomous Organisms, with Candidates Among Plants, Fungi, Protists, Bacteria, and Viruses
Authors: Hayes William K. , Gren Eric C. K. , Nelsen David R. , Corbit Aaron G. , Cooper Allen M. , Fox Gerad A. , Streit M. Benjamin
Published: February 2025

Numerous organisms, including animals, plants, fungi, protists, and bacteria, rely on toxins to meet their needs. Biological toxins have been classified into three groups: poisons transferred passively without a delivery mechanism; toxungens delivered to the body surface without an accompanying wound; and venoms conveyed to internal tissues via the creation of a wound. The distinctions highlight the evolutionary pathways by which toxins acquire specialized functions. Heretofore, the term venom has been largely restricted to animals. However, careful consideration reveals a surprising diversity of organisms that deploy toxic secretions via strategies remarkably analogous to those of venomous animals. Numerous plants inject toxins and pathogenic microorganisms into animals through stinging trichomes, thorns, spines, prickles, raphides, and silica needles. Some plants protect themselves via ants as venomous symbionts. Certain fungi deliver toxins via hyphae into infected hosts for nutritional and/or defensive purposes. Fungi can possess penetration structures, sometimes independent of the hyphae, that create a wound to facilitate toxin delivery. Some protists discharge harpoon-like extrusomes (toxicysts and nematocysts) that penetrate their prey and deliver toxins. Many bacteria possess secretion systems or contractile injection systems that can introduce toxins into targets via wounds. Viruses, though not “true” organisms according to many, include a group (the bacteriophages) which can inject nucleic acids and virion proteins into host cells that inflict damage rivaling that of conventional venoms. Collectively, these examples suggest that venom delivery systems—and even toxungen delivery systems, which we briefly address—are much more widespread than previously recognized. Thus, our understanding of venom as an evolutionary novelty has focused on only a small proportion of venomous organisms. With regard to this widespread form of toxin deployment, the words of the Sherman Brothers in Disney’s iconic tune, It’s a Small World, could hardly be more apt: “There’s so much that we share, that it’s time we’re aware, it’s a small world after all”.
Citizen Science to Collect Tobacco Waste: Exploring the Usability of Two Protocols
Authors: Temourian Allison A. , Durazo Arturo , Jordan Meggan M. , Díaz-Garayúa José R. , Beutel Marc W. , Song Anna V.
Published: February 2025

An emerging area of research is the impact of tobacco product waste (TPW) on the environment. Waste product assessment is of great interest to public health professionals and communities, and methods to collect waste products can easily lend themselves to community participation. Indeed, waste product collection can mobilize communities, but a standard methodology for collecting and assessing waste does not exist. This study utilizes two existing protocols for TPW collections across residential environments to determine the operational usability of these methods for citizen scientists (i.e., ease, time, and process of data collection). Citizen scientists surveyed two residential areas in Central California using two debris survey protocols (A and B). After waste products were recorded, citizen scientists were interviewed on their views about and experience with both protocols. Both protocols had strengths and suggested areas of improvement. This area of investigation is well suited to the citizen scientist approach of data collection, particularly in areas with fewer available resources. Moreover, this work can be utilized to motivate tobacco control efforts by highlighting how community-based TPW collection methods can support tobacco prevention and promote effective policy enforcement, with the ultimate goal of protecting community and environmental health.
Towards a Universal Translator: Decoding the PTMs That Regulate Orthoflavivirus Infection
Authors: Schmidt Hannah M. , Horner Stacy M.
Published: February 2025

Post-translational modifications (PTMs) serve as critical regulators of protein function across biological systems, including during viral infection. For orthoflaviviruses, including human pathogens like dengue, Zika, and West Nile viruses, PTMs on viral proteins regulate multiple aspects of the viral lifecycle and pathogenesis. Here, we review the mechanisms by which PTMs regulate orthoflavivirus infection in both vertebrate and arthropod hosts. We examine how ubiquitination and glycosylation on the viral envelope proteins facilitate viral entry and how phosphorylation, SUMOylation, and acetylation on non-structural proteins modulate viral RNA replication. Additionally, we describe how PTMs on viral structural proteins dynamically regulate viral assembly and egress. We also describe how PTMs can influence tissue tropism and host-specific pathogenesis, with some modifications showing divergent functions between arthropod vectors and vertebrate hosts, and how the host antiviral response can trigger specific PTMs on viral proteins to restrict infection, highlighting PTMs as key mediators of host-pathogen interactions. While significant progress has been made in identifying PTMs on viral proteins, many questions remain about their temporal dynamics, mechanisms of action, and conservation across the orthoflavivirus genus. Understanding how PTMs regulate orthoflavivirus infection may reveal new therapeutic strategies, particularly given recent advances in targeting specific protein modifications for disease treatment.
Correction: Gajurel et al. Arbovirus in Solid Organ Transplants: A Narrative Review of the Literature. Viruses 2024, 16, 1778
Authors: Gajurel Kiran , Dhakal Reshika , Deresinski Stan
Published: February 2025

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Table 1 as published [...]
Molecular Dissection of Symptom Determinants in Tomato Leaf Curl New Delhi Virus in Zucchini Through Mechanical Transmission
Authors: Vo Thuy T. B. , Kil Eui-Joon , Tabassum Marjia , Nattanong Bupi , Qureshi Muhammad Amir , Im Hyo-Jin , Parrella Giuseppe , Lee Taek-Kyun , Lee Sukchan
Published: February 2025

Among begomovirus species, tomato leaf curl New Delhi virus (ToLCNDV) is significant and stands out as a mechanically transmissible bipartite begomovirus originating from the Old World. However, the mechanisms underlying the mechanical transmission of different ToLCNDV strains remain understudied, as their natural transmission occurs via insect vectors. In this study, we investigated the mechanical transmissibility of two ToLCNDVs, one from Italy and another from Pakistan, in host plants. Several cucurbit species were screened, and symptom differences between the two ToLCNDV clones were observed only in zucchini when subjected to rubbing inoculation. The Italian isolate (ToLCNDV-ES) induced typical disease symptoms such as leaf curling, yellow mosaic, and internode stunting, whereas a normal phenotype was observed in zucchini mechanically infected with ToLCNDV-In (Pakistani isolate). Subsequently, a gene-swapping experiment between the two ToLCNDVs was conducted, and ToLCNDV-ES DNA-B was identified as a crucial factor in mechanical transmission. We then constructed chimeric mutant clones based on the DNA-B sequence and assessed their ability to induce symptoms in zucchini. These results indicated that the nuclear shuttle protein is a determinant of symptom development during ToLCNDV mechanical transmission. Moreover, several defense-related host genes showed significant changes in relative expression in different ToLCNDV clones, indicating their potential role in disease symptom development through the mechanical transmission of ToLCNDV. This is the first report comparing the mechanical transmissibility of two isolates of different ToLCNDV strains from the Mediterranean region and the Indian subcontinent in the same host plant, providing new insights into the virus’s pathogenicity across different geographic regions.
Viral Appropriation of Specificity Protein 1 (Sp1): The Role of Sp1 in Human Retro- and DNA Viruses in Promoter Activation and Beyond
Authors: Sviderskaia Kira , Meier-Stephenson Vanessa
Published: February 2025

Specificity protein 1 (Sp1) is a highly ubiquitous transcription factor and one employed by numerous viruses to complete their life cycles. In this review, we start by summarizing the relationships between Sp1 function, DNA binding, and structural motifs. We then describe the role Sp1 plays in transcriptional activation of seven viral families, composed of human retro- and DNA viruses, with a focus on key promoter regions. Additionally, we discuss pathways in common across multiple viruses, highlighting the importance of the cell regulatory role of Sp1. We also describe Sp1-related epigenetic and protein post-translational modifications during viral infection and how they relate to Sp1 binding. Finally, with these insights in mind, we comment on the potential for Sp1-targeting therapies, such as repurposing drugs currently in use in the anti-cancer realm, and what limitations such agents would have as antivirals.
A Candidate Ac3-S-LPS Vaccine Against S. flexneri 1b, 2a, 3a, 6, and Y Activates Long-Lived Systemic and Mucosal Immune Responses in Healthy Volunteers: Results of an Open-Label, Randomized 2 Clinical Trial
Authors: Ledov Vladimir A. , Romanenko Victor V. , Golovina Marina E. , Alkhazova Biana I. , Kovalchuk Alexander L. , Aparin Petr G.
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Determination of reactogenicity and immunogenicity of a pentavalent candidate vaccine against S. flexneri 1b, 2a, 3a, 6, and Y (PLVF). Methods: The study involved 80 healthy adult volunteers aged 18–55 years. Groups were subcutaneously immunized twice at a 30-day interval with 62.5 μg/0.5 mL or 125 μg/0.5 mL of the vaccine. Results: During the entire 8-month period of post-vaccination observation, the vaccine was well tolerated, with no local or systemic reactions detected objectively. The results of laboratory studies demonstrated no effect on the main indicators of hemogram, biochemical blood test, or urinalysis. IgA, IgG, and IgM levels against LPS S. flexneri 1b, 2a, 3a, 6, and Y were examined before vaccination, a month after each vaccination, and 6 months after booster vaccination. One month after vaccination, IgA and IgG seroconversions were observed in 67.5–82.5% (depending on serotype) and 60–77.5% of volunteers, respectively. Booster immunization did not have a significant effect on vaccine immunogenicity. In two separate groups of 15 and 9 volunteers for mucosal sIgA, IgA, and IgG titer determination after immunization with a 125 μg vaccine dose, paired stool, and saliva samples were taken before and one month after vaccination. In 26.7–40% of volunteers, there was a 2-fold and higher increase in sIgA titer for the studied serotypes in the feces and in 66.7–88.9% in saliva. IgA and IgG 2-fold conversion rates were 26.7–53.3% and 33.3–46.7% in the feces, 33.3–77.9%, and 66.7–77.8% in saliva, respectively. Conclusions: the tolerability of PLVF and the pronounced humoral immune response allow us to proceed to the phase 3 clinical trial stage.
Effects of Visual Input on Postural Stability and Compensatory Strategies in Adults with Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Sung Paul S. , Lee Dongchul
Published: February 2025

Chronic low back pain (LBP) impairs balance control due to deficits in sensory integration, yet limited research examines postural sway under varying visual conditions. This study assessed the effects of visual input on postural stability using the normalized stability index, sway excursions, and contralateral toe-touch durations during repeated one-leg standing tasks. Thirty-two adults with LBP and 40 control subjects performed dominant limb standing on a force plate. Outcome measures included the Oswestry disability index, visual analog scale, normalized stability index, sway excursions (anteroposterior [AP], mediolateral [ML]), and contralateral toe-touch duration. The LBP group showed a significant interaction for the normalized stability index under visual conditions (F = 4.95, p = 0.03) with reduced stability in the second trial of the eyes-open condition (t = 1.71, p = 0.04). Sway excursions increased in the AP direction during the first trial (t = −2.43, p = 0.01) and in the ML (t = −2.09, p = 0.02) and AP (t = −1.84, p = 0.03) directions during the third trial. Contralateral toe-touch duration increased in the second trial (t = −2.06, p = 0.02). Individuals with LBP exhibited balance deficits, particularly under eyes-open conditions, relying on compensatory strategies. Optimizing neuromuscular control and sensory integration may improve postural stability.
Source Identification and Release Potential of Soil Phosphorus in the Water-Level Fluctuation Zone of Large Reservoirs: A Case Study of the Three Gorges Reservoir, China
Authors: Han Chaonan , Dai Tianhao , Tian Zebin , Tang Yu , Wu Hao , Wang Yimei , Wang Zhulai
Published: February 2025

Reservoir water level regulation induces intricate processes of phosphorus (P) migration and release within the water-level fluctuation zone (WLFZ). These dynamic interactions pose significant challenges for effective pollution management strategies. This study focused on two typical tributary WLFZs (narrow gorges type and wide river type) in Three Gorges Reservoir (TGR), aiming to quantify P sources and assess their release potentials across two operational periods. Results showed that the deposition of suspended particulate P (SS-P) transported from the upstream was the dominant P source in the two WLFZs during the low water level period (August 2022). During the drainage period, the main P source of the ‘narrow gorges type’ WLFZ was P loss from slope soil above the WLFZ, but the ‘wide river type’ WLFZ had a mix of P sources, including P loss from slope soil, SS-P depositions from the TGR backwater and the tributary upstream. Among the three P sources, the slope soil source exhibited a relatively higher degree of P saturation (DPS) values (0.5–18.8%), indicating a greater potential for P release. Given that P loss from slope soil is the primary P source in the WLFZs during the drainage period, which coincides with the spring plowing season, it is crucial to implement measures to prevent P loss from slope soils to safeguard water quality in the TGR.
Methodological Framework for Sediment Management in Developing Countries: Shifting the Paradigm from Waste to Resource
Authors: Pilipović Dragana Tomašević , Bečelić-Tomin Milena , Krčmar Dejan , Tenodi Slaven , Kerkez Djurdja , Slijepčević Nataša , Šešlija Miloš
Published: February 2025

This study delves into the quality and quantity of sediment in the Great Bačka Canal near Vrbas, examining its physicochemical composition over a span of twenty years. The primary aim is to enhance sediment monitoring and risk assessment methodologies while advocating for a paradigm shift in sediment management—from treating sediments as waste to recognizing them as valuable resources. Analyzing sediment samples for heavy metals, including mercury, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, lead, zinc, nickel, and copper, alongside polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), provides insights into contamination levels and trends. The results revealed that the concentrations of mercury, arsenic, cadmium, chromium, and lead were within the second risk class, indicating that there was no immediate environmental hazard, but ongoing monitoring is necessary. Zinc levels, after initial exceedance, have decreased and are now within acceptable limits, whereas nickel concentrations, though reduced, remain a potential ecological risk. Copper levels persistently exceed remediation thresholds, indicating severe contamination that requires intervention. PAH concentrations were generally below regulatory limits, suggesting moderate pollution with no significant threat to benthic communities. This study highlights the effectiveness of recent pollution control measures, but underscores ongoing challenges in sediment management. This study highlights the need for more integrated and sustainable sediment management approaches that align with international standards and circular economy principles. Recommendations include adopting comprehensive regulatory frameworks, exploring beneficial uses of sediment, and fostering innovation in sediment reuse to enhance environmental outcomes and sustainability.
The willingness of Turkish consumers in different sociodemographic groups to try and consume in-vitro meat
Authors: Eser Ayşe Gülin , Keçici Pembe Dilara , Yılmaz Eker Funda , Ekiz Bülent
Published: February 2025

This study was conducted to determine the willingness of Turkish consumers in various socio-demographic groups to try, consume, and pay for in-vitro meat. The study was applied to potential participants through social media via Google Forms in the form of a questionnaire, and 989 responses were collected. Males were more willing than females to try in-vitro meat, consume it regularly, and try it when recommended. People who have master's and doctoral degrees are more willing to try in-vitro meat compared to those with other education levels. Related professionals, students, and health workers are more willing to try in-vitro meat directly and even more willing to try it, if recommended, than other occupational groups. The willingness to try, to consume regularly, and to try on recommendations were higher in the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Central Anatolia regions compared to others. Compared to individuals with one or two children, those without children and those with three or more children were found to be more willing to try in-vitro meat and to try if recommended. In-vitro meat is not yet commercially marketed in TürkiyeTurkey, and this study addresses the perceptions and opinions of consumer groups in different socio-economic statuses about in-vitro meat.
De-labelling erroneous penicillin allergy records in general practice: healthcare professionals’ experiences
Authors: Roleston Caity , Santillo Marta , Armitage Kelsey F , Porter Catherine E , Ahmed Shadia , Fielding Joanne , Wanat Marta , Butler Christopher C , Pavitt Sue , Sandoe Jonathan AT , Tonkin-Crine Sarah
Published: February 2025

Background

Penicillin allergy (PenA) prevalence is approximately 6%, but fewer than 10% of these people are expected to be truly allergic. Consequently, a significant proportion of the population are prescribed alternative antibiotics with potential increased risk of acquiring multi-drug resistant bacteria and worse health outcomes. The ALABAMA trial aimed to determine if a penicillin allergy assessment pathway (PAAP) initiated in primary care, is effective in de-labelling erroneous records, improving antibiotic prescribing and patient outcomes.

Aim

To investigate healthcare professionals’ experiences of the ALABAMA trial.

Design & setting

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews in general practice in England.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with healthcare professionals (including general practitioners, research nurses, pharmacists) who delivered the trial. Interviews explored their views about de-labelling incorrect PenA records, their role(s) in the trial, and, where relevant, their experience of prescribing following de-labelling.

Results

Healthcare professionals (n=18) believed many patients were incorrectly labelled PenA and were aware of the individual and public health risks this posed. However, GPs explained labels were rarely challenged in general practice because the perceived risks to patients and their professionalism were too great. The PAAP intervention, alongside the ‘protocolisation’ within the ALABAMA trial, was successful at mitigating these risks. Consequently, the trial was well-accepted and commended by healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

GPs welcomed and accepted the PAAP as a means of correcting erroneous PenA records. There is great potential for PAAP to be supported in primary care if testing becomes more accessible.
Depressão-pós parto, sintomas e influência no leite materno
Authors: Oliveira Ana Luísa de , Nascimento Carlos Gustavo Santos , Vitoi Catherine Rezende , Silva Gabriela Alves da , Albuquerque Larissa Dayrell , Caires Laryssa Thompson Vieira , Matos Laura Borges , Lima Leonardo da Costa , Oliveira Malu Mariana de , Mendonça Marcelle Peixoto de , Menezes Maria Carolina Santos , Toste Maria Eduarda Macedo Magalhães , Lima Natália de Oliveira , Gomes Pedro Gabriel Rodrigues , Camargo Theo Rezende , Stehling Thiago Valle , Rocha Vitória Luísa Silveira
Published: February 2025

A depressão pós-parto é um transtorno psiquiátrico comum que afeta significativamente a saúde da mãe e o desenvolvimento do bebê. Caracteriza-se por diversas alterações no sono e apetite, podendo levar a complicações como ideação suicida. No Brasil, a prevalência varia entre 20% e 26,3%, sendo influenciada por fatores como baixa renda, suporte insuficiente e gravidez indesejada. A fisiologia da amamentação, guiada por hormônios como prolactina e ocitocina, desempenha um papel crucial, não só no vínculo mãe-bebê, mas também na redução de sinais de DPP devido às propriedades relaxantes e antidepressivas desses hormônios. A queda dos hormônios, como estrógeno e progesterona, também influencia em uma tristeza pós-parto. Intervenções psicológicas durante o pré-natal, como o pré-natal psicológico, são eficazes para prevenir a DPP, oferecendo suporte emocional e informacional. O apoio familiar também é essencial, influenciando positivamente o prognóstico da DPP e fortalecendo a dinâmica familiar. Além disso, tratamentos combinados, que incluem terapia psicológica e uso controlado de antidepressivos, são fundamentais para abordar a DPP, sempre considerando a segurança da mãe e do bebê. A integração dessas práticas, junto com políticas públicas de saúde como a Rede Cegonha, evidencia a importância de um acompanhamento holístico durante a gestação e o pós-parto. É importante destacar que a DPP pode afetar a qualidade da interação mãe-bebê, prejudicando o desenvolvimento cognitivo, emocional e comportamental da criança. Crianças de mães com DPP têm maior risco de apresentar inibição comportamental e desajuste emocional. Portanto, a identificação precoce e o tratamento adequado da DPP são essenciais para promover o bem-estar materno e o desenvolvimento saudável do bebê.
التعزير بالتشهير لمخالف الاجراءات في زمن جائحة كورونا المستجد ( Covid – 19) في الفقه الإسلامي مقارنة بالقانون الكويتي
Authors: محمد يوسف المحمود
Published: February 2025

يهدف البحث إلى تناوُل مسألة حكم عقوبة التعزير بالتشهير في الفقه الإسلامي والقانون الوضعي، وانصبَّ التطبيق على حكم عقوبة التشهير في حق المخالف للإجراءات السلطانية في زمن الأوبئة، وخاصة في وباء كورونا (كوفيد-19). حيث انقسمت الآراء حول عقوبة التشهير بالمخالف بذكر اسمه في وسائل الإعلام بين معارض لمخالفته للدستور، ومؤيد لما قد يسببه من إضرار بالآخرين بسبب استهتاره وعدم مبالاته.
وقد استخدم الباحث المنهج الوصفي التحليلي- بما يشتمل عليه من مناهج الاستقراء والاستنباط- فوصف الباحث موضوع البحث وأحواله بما هو واقع عند الفقهاء قديمًا، ثم استقرأ المسائل المتعلقة بالموضوع، مع المقارنة بالقانون الكويتي، وتحليل ذلك.
وخلص البحث إلى عدد من النتائج الإجمالية منها: أن عقوبة التشهير عقوبة تعزيرية وردت الأدلة بمشروعيتها في الشريعة الإسلامية، بينما لا يرى القانون الكويتي مشروعية عقوبة التشهير. كما أن عقوبة التشهير قد تكون تبعية لغيرها من العقوبات، وقد تكون أصلية يكتفي بها القاضي، وهي عقوبة نفسية لها أثرها في بعض الأحوال وعلى بعض الأشخاص. ويرى الباحث أنه يمكن الاستعانة بعقوبة التشهير في زمن الأوبئة في حالة الأشخاص المستهترين الذي يضرّون بالمصلحة العامة، وعند استنفاد العقوبات الأخرى
الكلمات المفتاحية: التعزير، التشهير، الأوبئة، كورونا (كوفيد-19).
La discapacidad en la Cartera Europea de Identidad Digital (EUDI Wallet)
Authors: Tomás Martínez Gema
Published: February 2025

Este artículo aborda la reflexión jurídica que plantea el reciente Reglamento europeo (UE) 2024/1183, de 11 de abril de 2024 sobre el establecimiento del marco europeo de identidad digital, conocido como “eIDAS 2”, con relación a la atención que esta norma concede a las personas con discapacidad. Se analizan las disposiciones relevantes a este respecto y se ponen en contexto con la regulación española contenida en el Código civil modificado por la Ley 8/2021, de 2 de junio, por la que se reforma la legislación civil y procesal para el apoyo a las personas con discapacidad en el ejercicio de su capacidad jurídica. En concreto, se explora la posibilidad de incluir entre los atributos de la wallet europea aquellos relacionados con medidas de apoyo para la realización de actos jurídicos y contratos, por su posible impacto facilitador en el proceso de contratación con personas con discapacidad.