bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the diversity of zoonotic bacterial agents in rodents and small mammals in Iran
Authors: Rezaie Niloofar , Latifian Mina , Ghasemi Ahmad , Mahmoudi Ahmad , Baseri Neda , Omidi Amir Hossein , Esmaeili Parisa , Esmaeili Saber , Mostafavi Ehsan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The purpose of this study was to assess the prevalence of zoonotic bacteria, including Coxiella burnetii, Bartonella spp., Rickettsia spp., Brucella spp., Borrelia spp., and Ehrlichia spp., among small mammalian in Iran. We examined 618 small mammals collected between 2016 and 2020 from different parts of Iran. We extracted DNA from spleen samples and used quantitative real-time PCR to identify specific genes. We found 559 (90.45%) samples infected with at least one of the analyzed pathogens. Among the studied specimens, 86.08% tested positive for Bartonella spp., 2.42% for Ehrlichia spp., 0.80% for Borrelia spp., 0.64% for C. burnetii, 0.48% for Brucella spp., and 0% for Rickettsia spp. Bartonella krasnovii (25.81%) and Bartonella taylorii (25.81%) were the most prevalent among the Bartonella species. This study identified a rodent infected with Brucella abortus. Among the Borrelia-positive samples, four out of five were identified as Borrelia duttonii. Among the positive cases in the Ehrlichia genus, Ehrlichia canis, Candidatus Ehrlichia shimanensis, and Neoehrlichia mikurensis were identified. Meriones persicus was the most prevalent captured rodent with 315 specimens (51.22%). Our study revealed that a large proportion of the small mammals analyzed were infected with one or more of the targeted pathogens. M. persicus exhibited significant infection rates with C. burnetii, Bartonella spp., Ehrlichia spp., Brucella spp., and Borrelia spp. This suggests that this rodent species could serve as a crucial reservoir for zoonotic pathogens in Iran.
Epidemiological analysis and potential factors affecting the 2022–23 Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever outbreak in Iraq
Authors: Kodama Chiori , Alhilfi Riyadh Abdulameer , Aakef Ihab , Khamasi Adnan , Mahdi Sinan , Hasan Hameeda Mohammed , Khaleel Raghad Ibrahim , Naji Mazin Mahdi , Esmaeel Noor Khalid , Haji-Jama Sundus , Legand Anais , Keiser Olivia , Eckerle Isabella , Formenty Pierre B H 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever (CCHF) is an acute tick-borne disease with a case fatality rate of up to 40% in humans, posing a significant health threat. This study investigates the 2022–23 CCHF outbreaks in Iraq, the highest recorded to date, and analyzes potential factors at the human–animal–environmental interface. Data from the Iraqi government, the World Health Organization, and the World Bank were used to analyze CCHF trends and affecting factors. This included epidemiological reports, clinical data, tick infestation and seroprevalence studies, and climate data. Descriptive and statistical analyses examined case trends, geographic and demographic characteristics, clinical manifestations, risk factors, seasonal patterns, and influencing factors. A sudden rise in CCHF cases began in southern Iraq in April 2022 and expanded across all governorates, with a shift toward urban areas. Higher incidence was observed among males, aged 25–44, and those involved in slaughtering. The most common clinical manifestation was fever (97%), followed by hemorrhagic symptoms (54%). Bleeding from the gums or mouth and subcutaneous bleeding were more frequent in patients with fatal outcomes. Seasonal patterns showed peaks during spring and fall, correlating with tick activity and potentially exacerbated by climate change. Tick infestation and seroprevalence studies indicated a high prevalence of Hyalomma ticks and CCHF seropositivity among domestic animals in southern Iraq (60%), consistent with the distribution of CCHF human cases. Iraq’s ongoing CCHF outbreak demands multidisciplinary One Health strategies. The Iraqi government has adopted such a control strategy, contributing to regional and global efforts to enhance pandemic preparedness.
Achievement of one health multi-sectoral collaboration in containment of Rift Valley Fever outbreak, Sudan, Red Sea State 2019
Authors: Hussein Hanadi E , Hassanain Sara , Okwarah Patrick , Mohamedahmed Hanan , Elbadri Omer , Alzaki Zaafran , Hashim Mohamed , Magboul Babiker 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Rift Valley Fever is endemic in Sudan, with a notable outbreak declared in 2019, affecting multiple states. In this study, we examine the Red Sea State, Sudan’s experience in applying the One Health approach, to contain Red-Sea RVF outbreak. A retrospective analysis of national and sub-national data and a review of literature were conducted to assess the application of One Health response and to derive lessons learned. The analysis revealed a total of 576 human cases and two deaths, with a case fatality rate of 0.35%, from 25 September 2019 to 25 January 2020. Most cases (99%) were from the Red Sea and River Nile States, and only six sporadic cases were from other five states. The Red Sea State reported 322 human and 74 animal cases, including 74 abortions and 12 animal deaths. Triggers and risk factors include floods, uncontrolled movement of animal, close contact with animals, poor disposal, and unsafe burial practices for animals. One Health approach was utilized all through the defeat of outbreak. A multi-sectoral response plan was implemented, leading to the declaration of the end of the outbreak in 2020 which was reviewed and lessons were derived. One Health approach provided a coordinated action between health, veterinary, and environmental authorities at national and subnational levels. Synergistic efforts have minimized risk of RVF spreading among human and animal. The experience was leveraged to strengthen response approaches for zoonotic diseases. Structural and capacity gaps and financial constraints were identified as implementation challenges.
The Association of Regular Dog Walking with Mobility, Falls and Fear of Falling in Later Life
Authors: Gallagher Eleanor , Lavan Amanda , Kenny Rose Anne , Briggs Robert 
Published: January 2025

Abstract

Background
It has been suggested that dog walking may protect against falls and mobility problems in later life, but little work to date has examined this.
The aim of this study was to assess if regular dog walking was associated with reduced likelihood of falls, fear of falling and mobility problems in a large cohort of community-dwelling older people.

Methods
Participants ≥60 years at Wave 5 of The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing were included. Regular dog walking was ≥4 days/week by self-report.
The control group consisted of participants who did not own a dog or who did not regularly walk their dog.
Falls and fear of falling were by self-report. Mobility was measured with Timed-Up-and-Go (TUG).
Logistic Regression models assessed associations between regular dog walking and outcomes of interest.

Results
Regular dog walkers (629/4,161, 15%) had a significantly faster TUG (10.3 (10.1-10.5) vs 11.7 (11.1-12.2) seconds, t=2.11, p=0.0343) and lower likelihood of unexplained falls (OR 0.60 (0.38–0.96; p=0.034), fear of falling (OR 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.98); p=0.032) and mobility problems (0.64 (0.45–0.91); p=0.015) in fully-adjusted models.
Regular dog walking was also associated with a significantly lower likelihood of fear of falling (OR 0.79 (95% CI 0.64–0.98); p = 0.032).

Discussion
This study demonstrates a significantly lower prevalence of mobility impairment, falls and fear of falling amongst community-dwelling older people who regularly walk their dog.
While longitudinal and dedicated studies are required, older people should be encouraged to continue regular dog walking where feasible, as it may help in maintaining mobility and reducing falls.
The refined slip rates of the Haiyuan fault system from GNSS and levelling data
Authors: Peng Shengxiang , Ding Kaihua , Li Tianao , He Ping , Xu Wei , Zhang Yongying 
Published: January 2025

SUMMARY
Constrained by the horizontal velocity field of ∼248 GNSS stations and vertical velocity field of ∼432 levelling sites in the northeastern margin of the Qinghai–Tibet, we utilized an improved screw dislocation model with dip angle considered to invert the slip rate, locking depth and dip angle of each segment of the Haiyuan fault system. Comparative analysis of the inverted results shows that the improved screw dislocation model with dip angle considered has superior data fitting to the classical screw dislocation model, especially for faults with low dip angles. From west to east, strike-slip rates increase from 4.4 mm a−1 on the Lenglongling fault to 6.3 mm a−1 on the Maomaoshan–Laohushan fault and then decrease to 3.0 mm a−1 on the eastern segment of the Haiyuan fault, with dip angles varying between 50$^\circ $ and 65$^\circ $. The Maomaoshan–Laohushan segment exhibits the maximum locking depth of 22.5 km and the highest seismic moment, corresponding to an equivalent moment magnitude of up to 7.1 in the next 100 yr. The locking degree and slip rate deficit are generally decreasing from west to east on the Haiyuan fault system. The Lenglongling and Jinqianghe segments exhibit the highest locking degrees with depths of ∼15 km and slip rate deficits of ∼6 mm a−1. In contrast, the Haiyuan segment in the east has a low locking degree with a shallow depth of less than 8 km and a slip rate deficit of 2–4 mm a−1. The high locking degree and strain accumulation suggest a high seismic hazard on the Maomaoshan–Laohushan, Lenglongling and Jinjianghe faults, where should be paid more attention.
Characterization of colour, phenolics, and volatile compounds of 6 pomegranate varieties grown in Yunnan
Authors: Peng Yijin , Yun Yurou , Zou Wenhui , Zhou Linyan 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Our study analysed the quality differences between 6 pomegranate varieties grown in Yunnan. The results showed that the composition and contents of anthocyanins, the amount of polymeric pigments produced by the reaction between anthocyanins and tannins, and pH were the primary factors affecting the colour of pomegranate arils. Fructose and citric acid were the main sugar and organic acid contributing to the taste of pomegranate arils. In total, 42 phenolic compounds were identified, with BS being classified as a distinct group due to higher concentrations of ACNs and flavonols. Additionally, 32 volatile compounds were identified, with TLZ, SP, and TGY grouped, BS, TNS, and HRY grouped into another. The key phenolic metabolic pathways included flavone and flavonol biosynthesis, anthocyanin biosynthesis, and phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, while fatty acid biosynthesis, pyruvate metabolism, and sulfur metabolism were the main volatile metabolic pathways. These results provide valuable guidance for agricultural practices and promoting industrial development.
Shining light on seaweed—the utilization of vibrational spectroscopy and machine learning in the seaweed industry
Authors: Power A , Chapman J , Hoffman L , Cozzolino D 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Seaweed and macroalgae have been utilized for centuries in human and animal nutrition due to their rich composition and functional properties. As global demand for sustainable food sources grows, the seaweed industry requires effective quality control systems to ensure product safety and consistency. Vibrational spectroscopy, including near-infrared (NIR), mid-infrared (MIR), and Raman spectroscopy, offers powerful techniques for analysing the molecular composition of seaweed. These methods enable the identification and characterization of key molecular structures, essential for ensuring the quality of seaweed-based products. The integration of machine learning (ML) and chemometric techniques enhances the analytical capabilities of vibrational spectroscopy, providing robust tools for data interpretation and decision-making in seaweed safety and sustainability. This review highlights recent advancements in the application of vibrational spectroscopy, machine learning, and sustainable practices within the seaweed industry, emphasizing their role in improving product quality, traceability, safety, and resource efficiency. Furthermore, the ability of IR spectroscopy to predict seaweed chemical composition and biomass production under different abiotic conditions is discussed. Developing and implementing vibrational spectroscopy tools will enable agile methods that will support management and risk evaluation systems, providing with objective measurements to identify hazards during seaweed post-harvest and processing.
Affine Root Systems, Stable Tubes, and a Conjecture by Geiss–Leclerc–Schröer
Authors: Lin Zengqiang , Su Xiuping 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Associated to a symmetrizable Cartan matrix $C$, Geiss–Leclerc–Schröer constructed and studied a class of Iwanaga–Gorenstein algebras $H$. They proved a generalized version of Gabriel’s Theorem, that is, the rank vectors of $\tau $-locally free $H$-modules are the positive roots of type $C$ when $C$ is of finite type, and conjectured that this is true for any $C$. In this paper, we investigate this conjecture specifically for the case when $C$ is of affine type. We explicitly construct stable tubes, some of which are inhomogeneous tubes with non-rigid mouth modules. This characteristic is not presented in the representation theory of quivers (with no relations). We deduce that any positive root of type $C$ is the rank vector of some $\tau $-locally free $H$-module. However, the converse is not generally true. Our construction shows that there are $\tau $-locally free $H$-modules whose rank vectors are not roots, when $C$ is of type $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{B}}}_{n}$, $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{C}\mathbb{D}}}_{n}$, $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{F}}}_{41}$ and $\operatorname{\widetilde{\mathbb{G}}}_{21}$, and so the conjecture fails for these four types.
Postsecular Philosophy as Metaphoric Theology: On Dussel’s Reading of Marx
Authors: Vizcaíno Rafael 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This article articulates the ways in which the Argentine-Mexican philosopher and theologian Enrique Dussel advances a distinctly postsecularist and decolonial reinterpretation of the Marxist critique of religion. Specifically, this article explores Dussel’s Las metáforas teológicas de Marx [The Theological Metaphors of Marx], a text that exposes how Marx often deploys the Bible against the Christian in a way that presumes the original criticality of an “un-inverted” or “unfetishized” Christianity. Such an interpretative maneuver promises to add a new layer of complexity to the well-known Marxist critique of theology as a critique of politics. At stake in such an interpretation is the rejection of facile readings of Marx’s presumed secularism and the reconceptualization of the relation between theology and philosophy in the context of epistemic decolonization.
Unveiling geographical patterns of hierarchy in the Greek labor market network: toward a multilayer “status-polus” model
Authors: Tsiotas Dimitrios , Kallioras Dimitris 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This article develops a comprehensive framework for understanding labor markets’ spatial configuration and development dynamics, across multiple spatial scales. It applies to the Greek Labor Market Network and delineates five geographical zones of topological similarity, proposing a “status-polus” model capturing the coexistence between spatial development patterns, structural units, administrative scale, intermodality, and their underlying economic geography theories, by distance. The analysis reveals hierarchical structural variations, a transformation from continuous to point spatial patterns; a reduction and escalation of structural units; a U-shaped rule describing the hubs participation; and the challenges faced by insular regions to integrate this labor market.
From enthusiasm to apathy: dwindling support for globalization among future generations
Authors: Nooruddin Irfan , Rudra Nita 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
This essay examines support for globalization in developing countries, challenging the prevailing intellectual and policy consensus that globalization predominantly benefits less developed countries (LDCs). While globalization has been linked to economic growth and poverty reduction, rising inequality and discontent in both developing and developed countries raise critical questions about its long-term sustainability. In developed nations, populist leaders channel discontent with job precarity and wage pressures to criticize globalization, often portraying developing countries as the beneficiaries of global markets at the expense of blue-collar workers in richer nations. Conversely, in LDCs, scepticism about globalization is growing, particularly as income disparities widen and employment insecurity rises. We report three key findings: citizens in developing countries become more disillusioned with globalization over time, especially low-skilled workers and younger generations. This disenchantment mirrors the backlash seen in wealthy nations, suggesting that without substantial reforms to global trade systems, support for openness may erode across both developing and developed countries. A collapse of the international economic order, with negative global consequences, including supply chain disruptions and slower economic growth, is a potential outcome. The essay highlights the need for a reassessment of globalization’s role in developing economies to prevent further political and economic instability.
Distinct and redundant roles of the Arabidopsis OCTOPUS gene family in plant growth beyond phloem development
Authors: Crivelli Simona , Bartusch Kai , Ruiz-Sola M Aguila , Coiro Mario , Schmidt Kjølner Hansen Signe , Truernit Elisabeth 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
The Arabidopsis root apical meristem is an excellent model for studying plant organ growth that involves a coordinated process of cell division, elongation, and differentiation, while each tissue type develops on its own schedule. Among these tissues, the protophloem is particularly important, differentiating early to supply nutrients and signalling molecules to the growing root tip. The OCTOPUS (OPS) protein and its homolog OPS-LIKE 2 (OPL2) are essential for proper root protophloem differentiation and, likely through this role, indirectly promote root growth. Here, we explored the roles of the other three OPS homologs in Arabidopsis, OPL1, OPL3, and OPL4. OPS/OPL genes exhibit overlapping expression patterns and functions, with a high degree of redundancy among them. Although higher-order mutants do not display more severe phloem defects, they exhibit significantly reduced root growth compared to the ops opl2 mutant. These results suggest a direct contribution of the investigated OPL genes to meristematic activity. While our focus was on root growth, the OPS/OPL gene family also plays a positive role in regulating shoot growth, emphasizing its broader impact on plant development. Furthermore, our analyses reiterate the central role of OPS and the phloem domain in controlling overall plant growth.
Deciphering repair pathways of clustered DNA damage in human TK6 cells: insights from atomic force microscopy direct visualization
Authors: Nakano Toshiaki , Akamatsu Ken , Kohzaki Masaoki , Tsuda Masataka , Hirayama Ryoichi , Sassa Akira , Yasui Manabu , Shoulkamy Mahmoud I , Hiromoto Takeshi , Tamada Taro , Ide Hiroshi , Shikazono Naoya 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Ionizing radiation induces various types of DNA damage, and the reparability and lethal effects of DNA damage differ depending on its spatial density. Elucidating the structure of radiation-induced clustered DNA damage and its repair processes will enhance our understanding of the lethal impact of ionizing radiation and advance progress toward precise therapeutics. Previously, we developed a method to directly visualize DNA damage using atomic force microscopy (AFM) and classified clustered DNA damage into simple base damage clusters (BDCs), complex BDCs and complex double-strand breaks (DSBs). This study investigated the repair of each type of damage in DNA-repair-deficient human TK6 cells and elucidated the association between each type of clustered DNA damage and the pathway responsible for its repair postirradiation with low linear energy transfer (LET) radiation (X-rays) and high-LET radiation (Fe-ion beams) in cells. We found that base excision repair and, surprisingly, nucleotide excision repair restored simple and complex BDCs. In addition, the number of complex DSBs in wild-type cells increases 1 h postirradiation, which was most likely caused by BDC cleavage initiated with DNA glycosylases. Furthermore, complex DSBs, which are likely associated with lethality, are repaired by homologous recombination with little contribution from nonhomologous-end joining.
Negative DNA supercoiling enhances DARS2 binding of DNA-bending protein IHF in the activation of Fis-dependent ATP-DnaA production
Authors: Kasho Kazutoshi , Miyoshi Kenya , Yoshida Mizuki , Sakai Ryuji , Nakagawa Sho , Katayama Tsutomu 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Oscillation of the active form of the initiator protein DnaA (ATP-DnaA) allows for the timely regulation for chromosome replication. After initiation, DnaA-bound ATP is hydrolyzed, producing inactive ADP-DnaA. For the next round of initiation, ADP-DnaA interacts with the chromosomal locus DARS2 bearing binding sites for DnaA, a DNA-bending protein IHF, and a transcription activator Fis. The IHF binding site is about equidistant between the DnaA and Fis binding sites within DARS2. The DARS2-IHF-Fis complex promotes ADP dissociation from DnaA and furnishes ATP-DnaA at the pre-initiation stage, which dissociates Fis in a negative-feedback manner. However, regulation for IHF binding as well as mechanistic roles of Fis and specific DNA structure at DARS2 remain largely unknown. We have discovered that negative DNA supercoiling of DARS2 is required for stimulating IHF binding and ADP dissociation from DnaA in vitro. Consistent with these, novobiocin, a DNA gyrase inhibitor, inhibits DARS2 function in vivo. Fis Gln68, an RNA polymerase-interaction site, is suggested to be required for interaction with DnaA and full DARS2 activation. Based on these and other results, we propose that DNA supercoiling activates DARS2 function by stimulating stable IHF binding and DNA loop formation, thereby directing specific Fis–DnaA interaction.
Synthetic rational design of live-attenuated Zika viruses based on a computational model
Authors: Roopin Modi , Zafrir Zohar , Siridechadilok Bunpote , Suphatrakul Amporn , Julander Justin , Tuller Tamir 
Published: January 2025

Abstract
Many viruses of the Flaviviridae family, including the Zika virus (ZIKV), are human pathogens of significant public health concerns. Despite extensive research, there are currently no approved vaccines available for ZIKV and specifically no live-attenuated Zika vaccine. In this current study, we suggest a novel computational algorithm for generating live-attenuated vaccines via the introduction of silent mutation into regions that undergo selection for strong or weak local RNA folding or into regions that exhibit medium levels of sequence conservation. By implementing our approach to the ZIKV genome, we demonstrated strong correlation between the degree of conserved RNA local energy disruption and replicative ability of the viruses in Vero cells. In vivo analysis in the AG129 mouse model demonstrated the ability of the attenuated ZIKV strains to stimulate protective immune response against the wild-type virus. In some cases, up to 80% of the AG129 mice survived both the vaccination and the challenge with the wild-type strains, while 0% of the nonvaccinated mice survived the challenge. Our study provides a blueprint for a computational design of live-attenuated vaccine strains that still preserve immunogenic epitopes of the original RNA viruses. We believe that the approach is generic and can be used successfully for additional viruses.