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22 pages, 727 KiB  
Article
How Does Social Capital Promote Willingness to Pay for Green Energy? A Social Cognitive Perspective
by Lingchao Huang and Wei Li
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 6849; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17156849 - 28 Jul 2025
Abstract
Individual willingness to pay (WTP) for green energy plays a vital role in mitigating climate change. Based on social cognitive theory (SCT), which emphasizes the dynamic interaction among individual cognition, behavior and the environment, this study develops a theoretical model to identify factors [...] Read more.
Individual willingness to pay (WTP) for green energy plays a vital role in mitigating climate change. Based on social cognitive theory (SCT), which emphasizes the dynamic interaction among individual cognition, behavior and the environment, this study develops a theoretical model to identify factors influencing green energy WTP. The study is based on 585 valid questionnaire responses from urban areas in China and uses Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) to reveal the linear causal path. Meanwhile, fuzzy-set Qualitative Comparative Analysis (fsQCA) is utilized to identify the combined paths of multiple conditions leading to a high WTP, making up for the limitations of SEM in explaining complex mechanisms. The SEM analysis shows that social trust, social networks, and social norms have a significant positive impact on individual green energy WTP. And this influence is further transmitted through the mediating role of environmental self-efficacy and expectations of environmental outcomes. The FsQCA results identified three combined paths of social capital and environmental cognitive conditions, including the Netong–Norm path, the Netong–efficacy path and the Netong–Outcome path, all of which can achieve a high level of green energy WTP. Among them, the social networks are a core condition in every path and a key element for enhancing the high green energy WTP. This study promotes the expansion of SCT, from emphasizing the linear role of individual cognition to focusing on the configuration interaction between social structure and psychological cognition, provides empirical evidence for formulating differentiated social intervention strategies and environmental education policies, and contributes to sustainable development and the green energy transition. Full article
18 pages, 820 KiB  
Article
Integrated Evaluation of Undernutrition, Anaemia, and Intestinal Parasitic Infections in School-Aged Children: A Cross-Sectional Study in Three Regions of Southern Madagascar
by Gabriela Tapia-Veloz, Mónica Gozalbo, Venny Guirao, Hafsa Dinari, Màrius Vicent Fuentes and María Trelis
Children 2025, 12(8), 990; https://doi.org/10.3390/children12080990 - 28 Jul 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Undernutrition and intestinal parasitic infections are critical public health problems in low-income countries, with adverse effects on child growth and increasing anaemia. Madagascar, with a high prevalence of these factors, lacks comprehensive studies analysing their interaction. This study aimed to assess the [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Undernutrition and intestinal parasitic infections are critical public health problems in low-income countries, with adverse effects on child growth and increasing anaemia. Madagascar, with a high prevalence of these factors, lacks comprehensive studies analysing their interaction. This study aimed to assess the nutritional status, the prevalence of anaemia, and the occurrence of intestinal parasitic infections among children and adolescents in three southern regions of Madagascar. Methods: A cross-sectional, prospective study of 289 children and adolescents (10–18 years) from three schools located in Antsoamadiro, Fianarantsoa, and Toliara was conducted. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, and haemoglobin concentration data, as well as faecal samples, were collected. Nutritional status was assessed by Nutrimetry, combining Height-for-Age and BMI-for-Age indicators. Stool samples were analysed by optical microscopy and molecular methods. Results: Nutricode 1 (short stature/stunting + thinness/wasting) was significantly more frequent in Toliara. Nutricode 1 was also significantly more prevalent in males than females. Anaemia affected 57.8% of participants and was significantly associated with Nutricode 1. The overall parasitism rate was also associated with Nutricode 1. Trichuris trichiura and Ascaris lumbricoides significantly increased the risk of stunting, wasting, and Nutricode 1. Co-infection with Trichuris trichiura + Giardia duodenalis was significantly associated with wasting and Nutricode 1. This co-infection was also related to the presence of anaemia, as was moderate-intensity infection with T. trichiura. Conclusions: There is a high co-burden of undernutrition, anaemia, and parasitic infections in southern Madagascar. These findings highlight the urgency of implementing comprehensive health programmes combining parasite control, nutritional support, and iron supplementation adapted to regional realities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Global Pediatric Health)
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21 pages, 3942 KiB  
Article
Experimental Demonstration of Terahertz-Wave Signal Generation for 6G Communication Systems
by Yazan Alkhlefat, Amr M. Ragheb, Maged A. Esmail, Sevia M. Idrus, Farabi M. Iqbal and Saleh A. Alshebeili
Optics 2025, 6(3), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/opt6030034 - 28 Jul 2025
Abstract
Terahertz (THz) frequencies, spanning from 0.1 to 1 THz, are poised to play a pivotal role in the development of future 6G wireless communication systems. These systems aim to utilize photonic technologies to enable ultra-high data rates—on the order of terabits per second—while [...] Read more.
Terahertz (THz) frequencies, spanning from 0.1 to 1 THz, are poised to play a pivotal role in the development of future 6G wireless communication systems. These systems aim to utilize photonic technologies to enable ultra-high data rates—on the order of terabits per second—while maintaining low latency and high efficiency. In this work, we present a novel photonic method for generating sub-THz vector signals within the THz band, employing a semiconductor optical amplifier (SOA) and phase modulator (PM) to create an optical frequency comb, combined with in-phase and quadrature (IQ) modulation techniques. We demonstrate, both through simulation and experimental setup, the generation and successful transmission of a 0.1 THz vector. The process involves driving the PM with a 12.5 GHz radio frequency signal to produce the optical comb; then, heterodyne beating in a uni-traveling carrier photodiode (UTC-PD) generates the 0.1 THz radio frequency signal. This signal is transmitted over distances of up to 30 km using single-mode fiber. The resulting 0.1 THz electrical vector signal, modulated with quadrature phase shift keying (QPSK), achieves a bit error ratio (BER) below the hard-decision forward error correction (HD-FEC) threshold of 3.8 × 103. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first experimental demonstration of a 0.1 THz photonic vector THz wave based on an SOA and a simple PM-driven optical frequency comb. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Photonics and Optical Communications)
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22 pages, 3852 KiB  
Article
The Study on Culicoides: The Environment They Live in and Trypanosomatids They Coexist
by Margarita Kazak, Kristina Valavičiūtė-Pocienė and Rasa Bernotienė
Insects 2025, 16(8), 770; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080770 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
Information on Culicoides transmitted parasites, especially trypanosomatids, infecting animals and insects, is scarce. Our goal was to clarify the seasonal patterns of both Culicoides and trypanosomatids detected in these insects and the relationships between Culicoides abundance and meteorological parameters. UV light traps were [...] Read more.
Information on Culicoides transmitted parasites, especially trypanosomatids, infecting animals and insects, is scarce. Our goal was to clarify the seasonal patterns of both Culicoides and trypanosomatids detected in these insects and the relationships between Culicoides abundance and meteorological parameters. UV light traps were used to collect biting midges in four study sites in 2022–2023; collected Culicoides females were dissected and analyzed using microscopy and PCR-based methods. Out of 1631 parous Culicoides females belonging to 14 different species, 6.5% were found to be infected with trypanosomatids (5.0% with at least three Trypanosoma species and 1.5% with monoxenous parasites). The highest Culicoides abundance was detected in June. The prevalence of trypanosomatids in biting midges increased during the summer (5.3% in June, 8.8% in July, and 11.2% in August). Temperature was recorded to be a presiding environmental gradient structuring Culicoides species composition, while wind speed and precipitation explained little of the variation. Our results indicate that both avian and mammalian trypanosomes can be found in these insects, although further research is needed to better understand the development of these parasites in biting midges and Culicoides vectorial capacity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Advances in Diptera Biology)
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16 pages, 6356 KiB  
Article
Simulation-Based Verification and Application Research of Spatial Spectrum Modulation Technology for Optical Imaging Systems
by Yucheng Li, Yang Zhang, Houyun Liu, Daokuan Wang and Jiahui Yuan
Photonics 2025, 12(8), 755; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12080755 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
Leveraging Fourier optics theory and Abbe’s imaging principle, this study establishes that optical imaging fundamentally involves selective spatial spectrum recombination at the Fourier plane. Three classical experiments quantitatively validate universal spectrum manipulation mechanisms: (1) The Abbe-Porter experiment confirmed spectral filtering, directly demonstrating image [...] Read more.
Leveraging Fourier optics theory and Abbe’s imaging principle, this study establishes that optical imaging fundamentally involves selective spatial spectrum recombination at the Fourier plane. Three classical experiments quantitatively validate universal spectrum manipulation mechanisms: (1) The Abbe-Porter experiment confirmed spectral filtering, directly demonstrating image synthesis from transmitted spectral components. (2) Zernike phase-contrast microscopy quantified spectral phase modulation, overcoming the weak-phase-object detection limit by significantly enhancing contrast. (3) Optical joint transform correlation (JTC) demonstrated efficient spectral amplitude modulation for high-speed, high-accuracy image recognition. Collectively, these results form a comprehensive framework for active light field manipulation at the spectral plane, extending modulation capabilities to phase and amplitude dimensions. This work provides a foundational theoretical and technical framework for designing advanced optical systems, extending modulation capabilities to phase and amplitude dimensions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Research in Computational Optical Imaging)
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33 pages, 10161 KiB  
Review
Tracking the Spatial and Functional Dispersion of Vaccine-Related Canine Distemper Virus Genotypes: Insights from a Global Scoping Review
by Mónica G. Candela, Adrian Wipf, Nieves Ortega, Ana Huertas-López, Carlos Martínez-Carrasco and Pedro Perez-Cutillas
Viruses 2025, 17(8), 1045; https://doi.org/10.3390/v17081045 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
Canine morbillivirus (CDV), the cause of canine distemper, is a pathogen affecting many hosts. While modified live virus (MLV) vaccines are crucial for controlling the disease in dogs, cases of vaccine-related infections have been found in both domestic and wild animals. Specifically, the [...] Read more.
Canine morbillivirus (CDV), the cause of canine distemper, is a pathogen affecting many hosts. While modified live virus (MLV) vaccines are crucial for controlling the disease in dogs, cases of vaccine-related infections have been found in both domestic and wild animals. Specifically, the America-1 and Rockborn-like vaccine genotypes are concerning due to their spread and ability to transmit between different species. This study conducted a review and analysis of molecular detections of these strains in various carnivores (domestic, captive, synanthropic, and wild species). This study used a conceptual model considering host ecology and the domestic–wild interface to evaluate plausible transmission connections over time using Linear Directional Mean (LDM) and Weighted Mean Centre (WMC) methods. Statistical analyses examined the relationship between how likely a strain is to spread and factors like host type and vaccination status. The findings showed that the America-1 genotype spread in a more organised way, with domestic dogs being the main source and recipient, bridging different environments. Synanthropic mesocarnivores also played this same role, with less intensity. America-1 was most concentrated in the North Atlantic and Western Europe. In contrast, the Rockborn-like strain showed a more unpredictable and restricted spread, residual circulation from past use rather than ongoing spread. Species involved in vaccine-related infections often share characteristics like generalist behaviour, social living, and a preference for areas where domestic animals and wildlife interact. We did not find a general link between a host vaccination status and the likelihood of the strain spreading. The study emphasised the ongoing risk of vaccine-derived strains moving from domestic and synanthropic animals to vulnerable wild species, supporting the need for improved vaccination approaches. Mapping these plausible transmission routes can serve as a basis for targeted surveillance, not only of vaccine-derived strains, but of any other circulating genotype. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Canine Distemper Virus)
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18 pages, 1040 KiB  
Article
A TDDPG-Based Joint Optimization Method for Hybrid RIS-Assisted Vehicular Integrated Sensing and Communication
by Xinren Wang, Zhuoran Xu, Qin Wang, Yiyang Ni and Haitao Zhao
Electronics 2025, 14(15), 2992; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14152992 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
This paper proposes a novel Twin Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TDDPG)-based joint optimization algorithm for hybrid reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)-assisted integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) systems in Internet of Vehicles (IoV) scenarios. The proposed system model achieves deep integration of sensing and [...] Read more.
This paper proposes a novel Twin Delayed Deep Deterministic Policy Gradient (TDDPG)-based joint optimization algorithm for hybrid reconfigurable intelligent surface (RIS)-assisted integrated sensing and communication (ISAC) systems in Internet of Vehicles (IoV) scenarios. The proposed system model achieves deep integration of sensing and communication by superimposing the communication and sensing signals within the same waveform. To decouple the complex joint design problem, a dual-DDPG architecture is introduced, in which one agent optimizes the transmit beamforming vector and the other adjusts the RIS phase shift matrix. Both agents share a unified reward function that comprehensively considers multi-user interference (MUI), total transmit power, RIS noise power, and sensing accuracy via the CRLB constraint. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed TDDPG algorithm significantly outperforms conventional DDPG in terms of sum rate and interference suppression. Moreover, the adoption of a hybrid RIS enables an effective trade-off between communication performance and system energy efficiency, highlighting its practical deployment potential in dynamic IoV environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microwave and Wireless Communications)
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14 pages, 635 KiB  
Review
Methods of Control of Parasitic Weeds of the Genus Cuscuta—Current Status and Future Perspectives
by Lyuben Zagorchev, Tzvetelina Zagorcheva, Denitsa Teofanova and Mariela Odjakova
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2321; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152321 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
Dodders (Cuscuta spp.; Convolvulaceae) are parasitic weeds that pose major challenges to agriculture due to their ability to infect a wide range of host plants, extract nutrients, and transmit pathogens. Their control is especially challenging because of the seed longevity, resistance to [...] Read more.
Dodders (Cuscuta spp.; Convolvulaceae) are parasitic weeds that pose major challenges to agriculture due to their ability to infect a wide range of host plants, extract nutrients, and transmit pathogens. Their control is especially challenging because of the seed longevity, resistance to herbicides, and the capacity for vegetative regeneration. Mechanical methods such as hand-pulling or mowing are labour-intensive and often ineffective for large infestations. Chemical control is limited, as systemic herbicides often affect the host species equally, or even worse than the parasite. Current research is exploring biological control methods, including allelopathic compounds, host-specific fungal pathogens, and epiparasitic insects, though these methods remain largely experimental. An integrated approach that combines prevention, targeted mechanical removal, and biological methods offers the most promising path for long-term management. Continued research is essential to develop effective, sustainable control strategies while exploring possible beneficial uses of these complex parasitic plants. The present review aims to thoroughly summarise the existing literature, emphasising the most recent advances and discussing future perspectives. Full article
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17 pages, 3368 KiB  
Article
A Heave Motion Prediction Approach Based on Sparse Bayesian Learning Incorporated with Empirical Mode Decomposition for an Underwater Towed System
by Zhu-Fei Lu, Heng-Chang Yan and Jin-Bang Xu
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1427; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081427 - 27 Jul 2025
Abstract
Underwater towed systems (UTSs) are widely used in underwater exploration and oceanographic data acquisition. However, the heave motion information of the towing ship is usually affected by the measurement transmitting delay, sensor noise and surface waves, which will result in uncontrolled depth variation [...] Read more.
Underwater towed systems (UTSs) are widely used in underwater exploration and oceanographic data acquisition. However, the heave motion information of the towing ship is usually affected by the measurement transmitting delay, sensor noise and surface waves, which will result in uncontrolled depth variation of the towed vehicle, so as to adversely affect the monitoring performance and mechanical robustness of the UTS. To resolve this problem, a heave motion prediction approach based on sparse Bayesian learning (SBL) incorporated with empirical mode decomposition (EMD) for the UTS is proposed in this paper. With the proposed approach, a heave motion model of the towing ship with random waves is firstly developed based on strip theory. Meanwhile, the EMD is employed to eliminate the high-frequency noise of the measurement data to restore low-frequency towing ship motion. And then, the SBL is utilized to train the weight parameters in the built model to predict the heave motion, which not only reconstruct the heave motion from non-stationary sensor signals with noise but also prevent overfitting. Furthermore, the depth compensation of the towed vehicle is then performed using the predicted heave motion. Finally, experimental results demonstrate that the proposed EMD-SBL method significantly improves both the prediction accuracy and model adaptability under various sea conditions, and it also guarantees that the maximum prediction depth error of the heave motion does not exceed 1 cm. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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20 pages, 5343 KiB  
Article
System-Level Assessment of Ka-Band Digital Beamforming Receivers and Transmitters Implementing Large Thinned Antenna Array for Low Earth Orbit Satellite Communications
by Giovanni Lasagni, Alessandro Calcaterra, Monica Righini, Giovanni Gasparro, Stefano Maddio, Vincenzo Pascale, Alessandro Cidronali and Stefano Selleri
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4645; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154645 - 26 Jul 2025
Viewed by 52
Abstract
In this paper, we present a system-level model of a digital multibeam antenna designed for Low Earth Orbit satellite communications operating in the Ka-band. We initially develop a suitable array topology, which is based on a thinned lattice, then adopt it as the [...] Read more.
In this paper, we present a system-level model of a digital multibeam antenna designed for Low Earth Orbit satellite communications operating in the Ka-band. We initially develop a suitable array topology, which is based on a thinned lattice, then adopt it as the foundation for evaluating its performance within a digital beamforming architecture. This architecture is implemented in a system-level simulator to evaluate the performance of the transmitter and receiver chains. This study advances the analysis of the digital antennas by incorporating both the RF front-end and digital sections non-idealities into a digital-twin framework. This approach enhances the designer’s ability to optimize the system with a holistic approach and provides insights into how various impairments affect the transmitter and receiver performance, identifying the subsystems’ parameter limits. To achieve this, we analyze several subsystems’ parameters and impairments, assessing their effects on both the antenna radiation and quality of the transmitted and received signals in a real applicative context. The results of this study reveal the sensitivity of the system to the impairments and suggest strategies to trade them off, emphasizing the importance of selecting appropriate subsystem features to optimize overall system performance. Full article
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15 pages, 5889 KiB  
Article
A Strong Misalignment Tolerance Wireless Power Transfer System for AUVs with Hybrid Magnetic Coupler
by Haibing Wen, Xiaolong Zhou, Yu Wang, Zhengchao Yan, Kehan Zhang, Jie Wen, Lei Yang, Yaopeng Zhao, Yang Liu and Xiangqian Tong
J. Mar. Sci. Eng. 2025, 13(8), 1423; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmse13081423 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 85
Abstract
Wireless power transfer systems require not only strong coupling capabilities but also stable output under various misalignment conditions. This paper proposes a hybrid magnetic coupler for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), featuring two identical arc-shaped rectangular transmitting coils and a combination of an arc-shaped [...] Read more.
Wireless power transfer systems require not only strong coupling capabilities but also stable output under various misalignment conditions. This paper proposes a hybrid magnetic coupler for autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs), featuring two identical arc-shaped rectangular transmitting coils and a combination of an arc-shaped rectangular receiving coil and two anti-series connected solenoid coils. The arc-shaped rectangular receiving coil captures the magnetic flux generated by the transmitting coil, which is directed toward the center, while the solenoid coils capture the axial magnetic flux generated by the transmitting coil. The parameters of the proposed magnetic coupler have been optimized to enhance the coupling coefficient and improve the system’s tolerance to misalignments. To verify the feasibility of the proposed magnetic coupler, a 300 W prototype with LCC-S compensation topology is built. Within a 360° rotational misalignment range, the system’s output power maintains around 300 W, with a stable power transmission efficiency of over 92.14%. When axial misalignment of 40 mm occurs, the minimum output power is 282.8 W, and the minimum power transmission efficiency is 91.6%. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Ocean Engineering)
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13 pages, 5844 KiB  
Article
Through Silicon MEMS Inspection with a Near-Infrared Laser Scanning Setup
by Manuel J. L. F. Rodrigues, Inês S. Garcia, Joana D. Santos, Filipa C. Mota, Filipe S. Alves and Diogo E. Aguiam
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4627; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154627 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 123
Abstract
The inspection of encapsulated MEMS devices typically relies on destructive methods which compromise the structural integrity of samples. In this work, we present the concept and preliminary experimental validation of a laser scanning setup to non-destructively inspect silicon-encapsulated microstructures by measuring small variations [...] Read more.
The inspection of encapsulated MEMS devices typically relies on destructive methods which compromise the structural integrity of samples. In this work, we present the concept and preliminary experimental validation of a laser scanning setup to non-destructively inspect silicon-encapsulated microstructures by measuring small variations of transmitted light intensity in the near-infrared spectrum. This method does not require any particular sample preparation or damage, and it is based on the higher degree of transparency of silicon in the near-infrared and the transmission contrast resulting from the Fresnel reflections observed at the interfaces between the different materials of the MEMS device layers. We characterise the small feature resolving performance of the laser scanning setup using standard targets, and experimentally demonstrate the inspection of a MEMS latching device enclosed within silicon covers, comparing the contrast measurements with theoretical predictions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Sensors for Industry Applications)
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16 pages, 3033 KiB  
Article
Severe Scrub Typhus with Acute Kidney Injury: Urine PCR Evidence from an East Coast Malaysian Cluster
by Siti Roszilawati Ramli, Nuridayu Arifin, Mohd Fahmi Ismail, Shirley Yi Fen Hii, Nur Suffia Sulaiman, Ernieenor Faraliana Che Lah and Nik Abdul Hadi Nik Abdul Aziz
Trop. Med. Infect. Dis. 2025, 10(8), 208; https://doi.org/10.3390/tropicalmed10080208 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 181
Abstract
Background: Scrub typhus (ST) is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi (OT) infection, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected chiggers. The clinical presentations range from mild to life-threatening multi-organ dysfunction. This report describes a cluster of ST cases involving five oil [...] Read more.
Background: Scrub typhus (ST) is caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi (OT) infection, which is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected chiggers. The clinical presentations range from mild to life-threatening multi-organ dysfunction. This report describes a cluster of ST cases involving five oil palm estate workers in Pekan district, Pahang, Malaysia. Methods: The clinical history, laboratory, and entomological investigation were conducted on the patients, including the index case and four suspected cases in the cluster. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) tests for OT and genotyping were performed on the patients’ blood and urine samples. Serological testing by indirect immunoperoxidase (IIP) test against Rickettsial diseases was also conducted. Principal Findings: Patients presented with fever, myalgia, headache, rash, cough, and eschar. The index case developed severe ST complicated by acute kidney injury (AKI) and respiratory distress, requiring intubation and ventilation at the intensive care unit of a tertiary hospital. ST was confirmed through PCR analysis of a urine sample, showcasing a novel diagnostic approach. The other four cases were confirmed by a four-fold rise in immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody titers. Conclusions: oil palm estate workers are at high risk for chigger exposure in Malaysia. Awareness among clinicians and the public of ST is crucial for effective prevention, accurate diagnosis, and optimal management. Full article
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35 pages, 18111 KiB  
Article
Across-Beam Signal Integration Approach with Ubiquitous Digital Array Radar for High-Speed Target Detection
by Le Wang, Haihong Tao, Aodi Yang, Fusen Yang, Xiaoyu Xu, Huihui Ma and Jia Su
Remote Sens. 2025, 17(15), 2597; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17152597 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 111
Abstract
Ubiquitous digital array radar (UDAR) extends the integration time of moving targets by deploying a wide transmitting beam and multiple narrow receiving beams to cover the entire observed airspace. By exchanging time for energy, it effectively improves the detection ability for weak targets. [...] Read more.
Ubiquitous digital array radar (UDAR) extends the integration time of moving targets by deploying a wide transmitting beam and multiple narrow receiving beams to cover the entire observed airspace. By exchanging time for energy, it effectively improves the detection ability for weak targets. Nevertheless, target motion introduces severe across-range unit (ARU), across-Doppler unit (ADU), and across-beam unit (ABU) effects, dispersing target energy across the range–Doppler-beam space. This paper proposes a beam domain angle rotation compensation and keystone-matched filtering (BARC-KTMF) algorithm to address the “three-crossing” challenge. This algorithm first corrects ABU by rotating beam–domain coordinates to align scattered energy into the final beam unit, reshaping the signal distribution pattern. Then, the KTMF method is utilized to focus target energy in the time-frequency domain. Furthermore, a special spatial windowing technique is developed to improve computational efficiency through parallel block processing. Simulation results show that the proposed approach achieves an excellent signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) gain over the typical single-beam and multi-beam long-time coherent integration (LTCI) methods under low SNR conditions. Additionally, the presented algorithm also has the capability of coarse estimation for the target incident angle. This work extends the LTCI technique to the beam domain, offering a robust framework for high-speed weak target detection. Full article
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29 pages, 2926 KiB  
Review
Microbial Symbiosis in Lepidoptera: Analyzing the Gut Microbiota for Sustainable Pest Management
by Abdul Basit, Inzamam Ul Haq, Moazam Hyder, Muhammad Humza, Muhammad Younas, Muhammad Rehan Akhtar, Muhammad Adeel Ghafar, Tong-Xian Liu and Youming Hou
Biology 2025, 14(8), 937; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080937 - 25 Jul 2025
Viewed by 213
Abstract
Recent advances in microbiome studies have deepened our understanding of endosymbionts and gut-associated microbiota in host biology. Of those, lepidopteran systems in particular harbor a complex and diverse microbiome with various microbial taxa that are stable and transmitted between larval and adult stages, [...] Read more.
Recent advances in microbiome studies have deepened our understanding of endosymbionts and gut-associated microbiota in host biology. Of those, lepidopteran systems in particular harbor a complex and diverse microbiome with various microbial taxa that are stable and transmitted between larval and adult stages, and others that are transient and context-dependent. We highlight key microorganisms—including Bacillus, Lactobacillus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium, Fusarium, Aspergillus, Saccharomyces, Bifidobacterium, and Wolbachia—that play critical roles in microbial ecology, biotechnology, and microbiome studies. The fitness implications of these microbial communities can be variable; some microbes improve host performance, while others neither positively nor negatively impact host fitness, or their impact is undetectable. This review examines the central position played by the gut microbiota in interactions of insects with plants, highlighting the functions of the microbiota in the manipulation of the behavior of herbivorous pests, modulating plant physiology, and regulating higher trophic levels in natural food webs. It also bridges microbiome ecology and applied pest management, emphasizing S. frugiperda as a model for symbiont-based intervention. As gut microbiota are central to the life history of herbivorous pests, we consider how these interactions can be exploited to drive the development of new, environmentally sound biocontrol strategies. Novel biotechnological strategies, including symbiont-based RNA interference (RNAi) and paratransgenesis, represent promising but still immature technologies with major obstacles to overcome in their practical application. However, microbiota-mediated pest control is an attractive strategy to move towards sustainable agriculture. Significantly, the gut microbiota of S. frugiperda is essential for S. frugiperda to adapt to a wide spectrum of host plants and different ecological niches. Studies have revealed that the microbiome of S. frugiperda has a close positive relationship with the fitness and susceptibility to entomopathogenic fungi; therefore, targeting the S. frugiperda microbiome may have good potential for innovative biocontrol strategies in the future. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Recent Advances in Wolbachia and Spiroplasma Symbiosis)
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