bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How Close Are We to the Production of Milk in Alternative Systems? The Fat Perspective
Authors: Tadmor-Levi Roni , Argov-Argaman Nurit
Published: February 2025

The growing demand for sustainable food systems has led to significant advancements in developing alternatives to animal-derived products. Dairy products are an important dietary source of proteins and fats; however, their production raises environmental concerns, including greenhouse gas emissions, extensive land and water usage, and biodiversity loss. Therefore, there is a need to develop sustainable, scalable solutions that will enable the production of quality replacements for animal-based foods with reduced environmental impacts. Recognizing that replacing animal-based products from a single source is currently not feasible; there is a need for high-quality sources of ingredients that can be combined to mimic the holistic product. In recent years, plant-based dairy alternatives have gained traction; however, their inability to replicate the sensorial experience of real milk—attributed largely to the unique composition and structure of milk fat—remains a key limitation. Cow’s milk fat has distinctive characteristics, including a complex fatty acid profile, which is rich in short- and medium-chain saturated fatty acids with specific positional distribution. These characteristics of cow’s milk play a role in delivering the aroma, texture, and mouthfeel of dairy products. Recent efforts have focused on leveraging precision fermentation and cellular agriculture to mimic these properties. This review explores the unique lipid composition of ruminant milk, the biosynthesis of milk fats, and the challenges of replicating these features in non-mammalian systems. Emphasis is placed on short-chain fatty acids and chain-termination mechanisms in fatty acid synthesis. By integrating insights from diverse biological systems, we aim to contribute to a deeper understanding of the complex processes related to milk fat synthesis.
The Optimization of the Dehydration Temperature of Peels from Prickly Pears
Authors: Panza Olimpia , Del Nobile Matteo Alessandro , Conte Amalia
Published: February 2025

The optimization of the prickly pear peel (PPP) dehydration temperature was addressed. Two indicators of efficiency were used to select the optimal dehydration temperature: one related to the process productivity, another to the energy consumption. To calculate them the PPP dehydration kinetics were measured at three different temperatures (i.e., 50, 60, and 70 °C) along with the energy consumption of the process. A mathematical model was used to fit the dehydration kinetics. The influence of the temperature on the kinetics was assessed by analyzing the dependence of the fitting parameters on the dehydration temperature. It was found that both the kinetic parameters and the equilibrium parameter depend on the temperature through an exponential-type equation. The model was also used to calculate both the process productivity and the average energy consumed by the dehydration cabinet per grams of evaporated water when 99% dehydration is reached. The two efficiency indicators suggested that the optimal drying temperature is 70 °C, both being the indicators decreasing function of the temperature.
Gastrointestinal Pathologies Associated with Thalassemia: A Systematic Review
Authors: Fakeh Sara , Masoud Ahmad , Abuqtaish Raneem , Salman Bayan , Al-Ramahi Layth , AlWahkyan Omar , Abuquteish Dua
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Thalassemia, a hereditary blood disorder, leads to reduced hemoglobin levels, impairing oxygen transport and negatively impacting patient health. Recent research suggests a possible association between thalassemia and gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea, and GI bleeding, potentially due to immune compromise and iron overload. This systematic review aims to explore the prevalence and underlying factors of GI pathologies in thalassemia patients, excluding treatment-related effects and iron overload. Methods: A comprehensive search following the PRISMA guidelines was conducted to identify the prevalence and causes of GI disorders in thalassemia patients. Studies assessing non-treatment-related GI symptoms and their links to thalassemia were analyzed. After screening 1902 studies, 13 were included to investigate gastrointestinal manifestations in thalassemia patients. Results: Evidence indicates potential associations between thalassemia and GI disorders, including malabsorption, inflammatory bowel disease, Heliobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection, and celiac disease. Findings highlight immune compromise and iron dysregulation as possible contributing factors. Conclusions: This review highlights the importance of further research into the GI manifestations of thalassemia to enable early detection and improve patient health outcomes and quality of life. Addressing this gap may provide insights into better clinical management strategies for thalassemia patients.
Contribution of Structure Learning Algorithms in Social Epidemiology: Application to Real-World Data
Authors: Colineaux Helene , Lepage Benoit , Chauvin Pierre , Dimeglio Chloe , Delpierre Cyrille , Lefèvre Thomas
Published: February 2025

Epidemiologists often handle large datasets with numerous variables and are currently seeing a growing wealth of techniques for data analysis, such as machine learning. Critical aspects involve addressing causality, often based on observational data, and dealing with the complex relationships between variables to uncover the overall structure of variable interactions, causal or not. Structure learning (SL) methods aim to automatically or semi-automatically reveal the structure of variables’ relationships. The objective of this study is to delineate some of the potential contributions and limitations of structure learning methods when applied to social epidemiology topics and the search for determinants of healthcare system access. We applied SL techniques to a real-world dataset, namely the 2010 wave of the SIRS cohort, which included a sample of 3006 adults from the Paris region, France. Healthcare utilization, encompassing both direct and indirect access to care, was the primary outcome. Candidate determinants included health status, demographic characteristics, and socio-cultural and economic positions. We present two approaches: a non-automated epidemiological method (an initial expert knowledge network and stepwise logistic regression models) and three SL techniques using various algorithms, with and without knowledge constraints. We compared the results based on the presence, direction, and strength of specific links within the produced network. Although the interdependencies and relative strengths identified by both approaches were similar, the SL algorithms detect fewer associations with the outcome than the non-automated method. Relationships between variables were sometimes incorrectly oriented when using a purely data-driven approach. SL algorithms can be valuable in exploratory stages, helping to generate new hypotheses or mining novel databases. However, results should be validated against prior knowledge and supplemented with additional confirmatory analyses.
DNA Salivary Methylation Levels of the ACE2 Promoter Are Not Related to ACE2 (rs2285666 and rs2074192), TMPRSS2 (rs12329760 and rs2070788) and ACE1 rs1799752 Polymorphisms in COVID-19 Survivors with Post-COVID-19 Condition
Authors: Fernández-de-las-Peñas César , Díaz-Gil Gema , Gil-Crujera Antonio , Gómez-Sánchez Stella M. , Ambite-Quesada Silvia , Torres-Macho Juan , Ryan-Murua Pablo , Franco-Moreno Ana I. , Pellicer-Valero Oscar J. , Arendt-Nielsen Lars , Giordano Rocco
Published: February 2025

Genetics and epigenetics are mechanisms proposed for explaining post-COVID-19 condition. This secondary analysis aimed to investigate if DNA methylation levels of the ACE2 promoter are different depending on the genotype of five COVID-19-related polymorphisms in individuals who had been previously hospitalized due to SARS-CoV-2 infection. We collected non-stimulated saliva samples from 279 (48.7% female, age: 56.0 ± 12.5 years) previously hospitalized COVID-19 survivors. The participants self-reported for the presence of post-COVID symptomatology that started after the infection and persisted at the time of the appointment. Three potential genotypes of ACE2 rs2285666 and rs2074192, TMPRSS2 rs12329760 and rs2070788, and ACE1 rs1799752 polymorphisms were identified from saliva samples. Further, methylation levels at five different locations (CpG) of dinucleotides in the ACE2 promoter were quantified using bisulfited pyrosequencing. Differences in the methylation percentage (%) of each CpG according to the genotype of the five polymorphisms were analyzed. Participants were evaluated up to 17.8 (SD: 5.2) months after hospital discharge. Eighty-eight percent (88.1%) of patients reported at least one post-COVID symptom (mean number of post-COVID symptoms: 3.0; SD: 1.9). Overall, we did not observe significant differences in the methylation levels of the ACE2 promoter according to the genotype of ACE2 rs2285666 and rs2074192, TMPRSS2 rs12329760 and rs2070788, or ACE1 rs1799752 single nucleoid polymorphisms. This study did not find an association between genetics (genotypes of five COVID-19-associated polymorphisms) and epigenetics (methylation levels of the ACE2 promoter) in a cohort of COVID-19 survivors with post-COVID-19 condition who were hospitalized during the first wave of the pandemic.
Aging Favors Calcium Activation of Ryanodine Receptor Channels from Brain Cortices and Hippocampi and Hinders Learning and Memory in Male Rats
Authors: More Jamileth , Finkelstein José Pablo , Valdés José Luis , Hidalgo Cecilia , Bull Ricardo
Published: February 2025

The response of ryanodine receptor (RyR) channels to increases in free cytoplasmic calcium concentration ([Ca2+]) is tuned by several mechanisms, including redox signaling. Three different responses to [Ca2+] have been described in RyR channels, low, moderate and high activity responses, which depend on the RyR channel protein oxidation state. Thus, reduced RyR channels display the low activity response, whereas partially oxidized channels display the moderate response and more oxidized channels, the high activity response. As described here, RyR channels from rat brain cortices or hippocampi displayed aged-related marked changes in the distribution of these channel responses; RyR channels from aged rats displayed reduced fraction of low activity channels and increased fraction of high activity channels, which would favor Ca2+-induced Ca2+ release. In addition, compared with young rats, aged rats displayed learning and memory defects, with lower hit rates when tested in the Oasis maze, a dry version of the Morris water maze. Previous oral administration of N-acetylcysteine for 3 weeks prevented both the age-dependent effects on RyR channel activation by [Ca2+], and the learning and memory defects. Based on these results, it is proposed that redox-sensitive neuronal RyR channels partake in the mechanism underlying the learning and memory disruptions displayed by aged rats.
Sodium-Glucose Transporter-2 Inhibitors (SGLT2i) and Myocardial Ischemia: Another Compelling Reason to Consider These Agents Regardless of Diabetes
Authors: Piccirillo Francesco , Lanciotti Matteo , Nusca Annunziata , Frau Lorenzo , Spanò Agostino , Liporace Paola , Ussia Gian Paolo , Grigioni Francesco
Published: February 2025

In recent years, the introduction of sodium-glucose transporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) marked a significant advancement in the treatment of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Beyond their known effects on glycemic control and lipid profile, SGLT2is demonstrate notable benefits for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality, regardless of diabetic status. These agents are currently recommended as first-line therapies in patients with heart failure, both with reduced and preserved ejection fraction, as they improve symptoms and reduce the risk of hospitalization. While several studies have demonstrated that SGLT2is can reduce the incidence of major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs), the true impact of these agents on atherosclerosis progression and myocardial ischemia remains to be fully understood. A global beneficial effect related to improved glycemic and lipid control could be hypothesized, even though substantial evidence shows a direct impact on molecular pathways that enhance endothelial function, exhibit anti-inflammatory properties, and provide myocardial protection. In this context, this narrative review summarizes the current knowledge regarding these novel anti-diabetic drugs in preventing and treating myocardial ischemia, aiming to define an additional area of application beyond glycemic control and heart failure.
Genome-Wide Association Study and Genomic Prediction of Soybean Mosaic Virus Resistance
Authors: He Di , Wu Xintong , Liu Zhi , Yang Qing , Shi Xiaolei , Song Qijian , Shi Ainong , Li Dexiao , Yan Long
Published: February 2025

Soybean mosaic virus (SMV), a pathogen responsible for inducing leaf mosaic or necrosis symptoms, significantly compromises soybean seed yield and quality. According to the classification system in the United States, SMV is categorized into seven distinct strains (G1 to G7). In this study, we performed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) in GAPIT3 using four analytical models (MLM, MLMM, FarmCPU, and BLINK) on 218 soybean accessions. We identified 22 SNPs significantly associated with G1 resistance across chromosomes 1, 2, 3, 12, 13, 17, and 18. Notably, a major quantitative trait locus (QTL) spanning 873 kb (29.85–30.73 Mb) on chromosome 13 exhibited strong association with SMV G1 resistance, including the four key SNP markers: Gm13_29459954_ss715614803, Gm13_29751552_ss715614847, Gm13_30293949_ss715614951, and Gm13_30724301_ss715615024. Within this QTL, four candidate genes were identified: Glyma.13G194100, Glyma.13G184800, Glyma.13G184900, and Glyma.13G190800 (3Gg2). The genomic prediction (GP) accuracies ranged from 0.60 to 0.83 across three GWAS-derived SNP sets using five models, demonstrating the feasibility of GP for SMV-G1 resistance. These findings could provide a useful reference in soybean breeding targeting SMV-G1 resistance.
Microenvironmental Drivers of Glioma Progression
Authors: Jang Hyun Ji , Park Jong-Whi
Published: February 2025

Gliomas, particularly glioblastoma (GBM), are among the most challenging brain tumors due to their complex and dynamic tumor microenvironment (TME). The TME plays a pivotal role in tumor progression, immune evasion, and resistance to therapy through intricate interactions among glioma cells, immune components, neurons, astrocytes, the extracellular matrix, and the blood-brain barrier. Targeting the TME has demonstrated potential, with immunotherapies such as checkpoint inhibitors and neoadjuvant therapies enhancing immune responses. Nonetheless, overcoming the immunosuppressive landscape and metabolic adaptations continues to pose significant challenges. This review explores the diverse cellular and molecular mechanisms that shape the glioma TME. A deeper understanding of these mechanisms holds promise for providing novel therapeutic opportunities to improve glioma treatment outcomes.
Antithrombotic Effect of Chenopodium album L. Extract and Its Fractions via Regulating TLRs and the Downstream MAPKs and PI3K/AKT Signaling Pathways in Zebrafish
Authors: Wang Xiyue , Wang Miaoyunhuan , Dong Yuqing , Yu Shuqing , Zhang Shanshan , Sun Pinghua , Wang Lu , Liu Jibin , Lin Houwen , Pan Xinhui , Li Xiaobin
Published: February 2025

Chenopodium album L., as a folkloric herb, is traditionally used to treat poisonous insect bites, vitiligo, and other ailments. However, its impact on thrombosis remains unknown. In this study, we discovered that the ethanol extract of C. album exhibited a remarkable antithrombotic effect using a zebrafish thrombosis model for the first time. Activity evaluation showed that fraction CA-C could improve thrombus aggregation in the caudal vein, increase blood return in the heart, and alleviate the slowing of blood flow compared with those in the model group. Then, analysis by ultra-high performance liquid chromatography-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass (UPLC-Q-TOF-MS) identified 58 constituents of CA-C, with most of them belonging to flavonoids, alkaloids, and steroidal saponin components. Moreover, using a comprehensive strategy of network pharmacological analysis, transcriptomic assay, and RT-qPCR validation, we found that CA-C could mediate the TLR’s signaling pathway and its downstream MAPKs and PI3K/AKT signaling pathways to exert an antithrombotic effect. This study broadens the clinical application of plant C. album and provides new insight into the chemical profile, pharmacodynamics, and potential mechanisms of CA-C as candidate agents for treating thrombosis.
Family-Level Diversity of Hymenopteran Parasitoid Communities in Agricultural Drainage Ditches and Implications for Biological Control
Authors: Windsor Shane Daniel , Shokoohi Alireza , Salerno Robert , Lamp William
Published: February 2025

Agricultural drainage ditches contain a variety of non-crop vegetation, including potential sources of alternate hosts and food for hymenopteran parasitoids that provide conservation biological control on adjacent farm fields. To assess the patterns of family-level diversity of hymenopteran parasitoids, we surveyed ditch and adjacent crop habitats during June, July, and August 2021–2023, using yellow sticky traps over one week. We sampled two agricultural drainage ditches on each of five farms on the Delmarva Peninsula, eastern USA. We collected 36,725 specimens and identified 29 families across 738 sticky traps. Parasitoid diversity was greater in agricultural ditches than in adjacent fields. While parasitoid family diversity and abundance varied across the farms, ditches within a farm were similar. Within crop fields, diversity was greater at 1.5 m from agricultural ditches than at 9.1 m from the ditches. For several well-sampled families, greater abundance on one farm relative to others extended to both ditches and adjacent crops. Our findings indicate that agricultural drainage ditches serve as an existing beneficial semi-natural habitat for parasitoids on farms. Further research into ditch management practices may reveal methods of enhancing parasitoid abundance and conservation biological control while requiring relatively little investment from farm managers.
Novel Surgical Approach for Aphakia and Iridodialysis: Artificial Iris and Scleral-Fixated Lens as a Single Complex
Authors: Parisi Guglielmo , Vaiano Agostino Salvatore , Foti Claudio , Gelormini Francesco , Ricardi Federico , Conte Fabio , Marenco Maria , Marolo Paola , Borrelli Enrico , Reibaldi Michele
Published: February 2025

Background: Artificial iris (AI) implantation is an innovative and increasingly utilized surgical procedure for injured eyes with iris trauma. Methods: A 76-year-old female and a 34-year-old male presented at the emergency department with a traumatic corneo-scleral laceration and perforated corneal ulcer, respectively. Emergency surgeries were performed to restore ocular integrity. In both cases, a modified surgical technique involving the implantation of an AI was performed; however, two different models of AI were used. Results: The AIs were sutured with four stitches directly to the scleral-fixated (SF) intra ocular lens (IOL), and the AI-IOL complexes were implanted, as a single unit, and fixated to the sclera using the lens haptics. Before and after the surgery, patients underwent a comprehensive eye examination, including a visual acuity test. The AI-SF IOL complexes remained well positioned, with no intraocular or extraocular complications observed during the follow-up evaluations of both patients. Conclusions: We reported a straightforward and repeatable modified surgical technique for two patients with two models of AI, both sutured to the SF IOL and fixated to the sclera, as a single unit. This approach may serve as an excellent alternative for managing aphakic eyes with extensive iridodialysis or partial aniridia.
Use of Artificial Intelligence in Difficult Airway Assessment: The Current State of Knowledge
Authors: Wilk Mateusz , Pikiewicz Wojciech , Florczak Krzysztof , Jakóbczak Dawid
Published: February 2025

Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become one of the most transformative technologies of the 21st century. It is poised to reshape medicine, as almost every field of hospital treatment has seen an increase in AI’s presence. In this article, we focus on its impact in the field of anesthesia. We discuss its possible influence on difficult airway management, as it remains one of the most critical and potentially hazardous aspects of anesthesia, often leading to life-threatening complications. The accurate prediction of difficult airways can significantly improve patient safety. We covered the available literature on AI-based models for difficult airway prediction in comparison to traditional forms of airway assessment, as well as the predictive value of ultrasonography. We also address the narrative that AI-based algorithms show high sensitivity and specificity, with which they significantly outperform classical tests based on complex scales and indices.
Discriminative Ability and Associations of Sarcopenia Using Point-of-Care Ultrasound with Functional, Mobility and Frailty Status in Older Inpatients
Authors: Zehnder Rahel , Schimmel Martin , Meyer Lisa , Kömeda Miriam , Limacher Andreas , Eggimann Anna K.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: We aimed to assess the discriminative ability of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) of the rectus femoris (RF) to detect sarcopenia and to examine associations of these sarcopenia measures with functional, mobility, and frailty status among older inpatients. Methods: Data were analysed from 161 patients aged 70 years and older consecutively admitted to a tertiary geriatric rehabilitation hospital between October and December 2023. The RF thickness and cross-sectional area (CSA) were measured using POCUS applying validated cut-offs. Ability of muscle ultrasound to detect sarcopenia based on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) as the reference standard was calculated using receiver operating characteristics analyses (ROC). Second, associations of sarcopenia measures based on either the ultrasonographic RF thickness, or the RF cross-sectional area with functional, frailty, and mobility status were analysed using multivariable logistic regression analyses. Results: Mean age was 84.0 years (standard deviation (SD) 6.1 years) and 64.4% were women. Overall, 31 (19.3%) patients had sarcopenia based on low grip strength and low muscle mass using the BIA. The mean ultrasonographic RF thickness and CSA were 13 mm (SD 4.1) and 4.3 cm2 (SD 1.7), respectively. Correlation coefficients of the RF thickness with BIA-muscle mass were r = 0.52 in males, versus r = 0.40 in females. Both sarcopenia measures using the RF thickness and CSA were positively associated with functional (adjusted odds ratio (OR) 9.3 (95% CI 3.7–23.4) and 9.2 (3.6–23.7)) and frailty status (OR 4.0 (95% CI 2.1–12.1) and 4.3 (1.8–10.4)). None of the sarcopenia measures were significantly associated with mobility status. Conclusions: Rectus femoris thickness and CSA measured by POCUS showed a fair discriminative ability to detect sarcopenia based on BIA, suggesting that BIA and POCUS measure different aspects of muscle health. A strong association between sarcopenia based on POCUS and functional and frailty status suggest the potential utility of POCUS in the diagnostic evaluation of sarcopenia among older hospitalised patients; however, further study is required. Research should focus on establishing valid sex-specific cut-offs for grip strength and muscle mass, with the ultimate goal of developing a low-cost, bedside, and sensitive diagnostic toolkit for detecting sarcopenia in older patients.
Assessing the Recognition of Social Interactions Through Body Motion in the Routine Care of Patients with Post-Lingual Sensorineural Hearing Loss
Authors: Fauvet Cordélia , Cantini Léa , Chaudoreille Aude-Eva , Cancian Elisa , Bonnel Barbara , Sérignac Chloé , Derreumaux Alexandre , Robert Philippe , Guevara Nicolas , Gros Auriane , Manera Valeria
Published: February 2025

Background: Body motion significantly contributes to understanding communicative and social interactions, especially when auditory information is impaired. The visual skills of people with hearing loss are often enhanced and compensate for some of the missing auditory information. In the present study, we investigated the recognition of social interactions by observing body motion in people with post-lingual sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Methods: In total, 38 participants with post-lingual SNHL and 38 matched normally hearing individuals (NHIs) were presented with point-light stimuli of two agents who were either engaged in a communicative interaction or acting independently. They were asked to classify the actions as communicative vs. independent and to select the correct action description. Results: No significant differences were found between the participants with SNHL and the NHIs when classifying the actions. However, the participants with SNHL showed significantly lower performance compared with the NHIs in the description task due to a higher tendency to misinterpret communicative stimuli. In addition, acquired SNHL was associated with a significantly higher number of errors, with a tendency to over-interpret independent stimuli as communicative and to misinterpret communicative actions. Conclusions: The findings of this study suggest a misinterpretation of visual understanding of social interactions in individuals with SNHL and over-interpretation of communicative intentions in SNHL acquired later in life.
The FEV1/DLCO Ratio as an Effective Predictor of Severity and Survival in COPD-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Patel Ria , Pescatore Jay , Gayen Shameek
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is associated with increased morbidity and mortality in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The ratio of the functional vital capacity (FVC) to diffusing capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide (DLCO) has demonstrated predictive and prognostic efficacy in PH due to lung disease, including COPD. However, forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) is used to grade COPD severity. We aimed to determine whether FEV1/DLCO predicts PH severity in COPD-PH. Methods: This is a retrospective analysis of patients with COPD-PH diagnosed via right heart catheterization and pulmonary function testing. Linear regression assessed the correlation of FEV1/DLCO with RHC parameters. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis was performed to assess the predictive effectiveness of FEV1/DLCO for severe PH. Results: Among 212 patients with COPD-PH, the FEV1/DLCO ratio positively correlated with mean pulmonary artery pressure (mPAP; r = 0.6, p < 0.001) and pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR; r = 0.56, p < 0.001). In ROC analysis, FEV1/DLCO was effective at predicting severe PH (AUC 0.60, p = 0.02). Those with a FEV1/DLCO ratio > 1.66 had a decreased rate of transplant-free survival as compared to those with a lower ratio (40.8% vs. 59.2%, p = 0.01). Conclusions: Among patients with COPD-PH, FEV1/DLCO correlates well with mPAP and PVR. The FEV1/DLCO ratio may effectively predict severe PH and may predict transplant-free survival in COPD-PH.
Cardiac Sarcoidosis and Inherited Cardiomyopathies: Clinical Masquerade or Overlap?
Authors: Fouda Sami , Godfrey Rebecca , Pavitt Christopher , Alway Thomas , Coombs Steven , Ellery Susan M. , Parish Victoria , Silberbauer John , Liu Alexander
Published: February 2025

Cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) and inherited cardiomyopathies (inherited CM) are associated with advanced heart failure, cardiac conduction defects, ventricular arrhythmias and sudden cardiac death. Both conditions can have similar clinical presentations. Differentiating between the two disease cohorts is important in delivering specific management to patients, such as immunosuppressive therapy for CS patients and genetic screening for inherited CM. In this review, we examined the existing evidence on the overlap between CS and common inherited CM, such as hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy, restrictive cardiomyopathy and dilated cardiomyopathy. In patients where both CS and inherited CM were implicated, CS tended to be diagnosed much later, often when patients presented with complications warranting a workup or cardiac histological confirmation. CS can masquerade as an inherited CM, leading to delays in the instigation of CS therapy. Confirmed dual pathology overlap between inherited CM and CS is rarer. Advanced cardiac imaging, such as cardiovascular magnetic resonance, plays an important role in the clinical workup of both CS and inherited CM. However, findings on cardiac imaging alone often cannot differentiate between the two conditions. Definitive differentiation between CS and inherited CM requires both clinical experience and, at times, a myocardial biopsy.
A Novel Bilinear Traction-Separation Law for Fatigue Damage Accumulation of Adhesive Joints in Fiber-Reinforced Composite Material Under Step/Variable-Amplitude Loading
Authors: Patro Abinash , Tabiei Ala
Published: February 2025

Adhesive joints in real-world conditions often experience variable or step loading rather than constant-amplitude fatigue. This study addresses this gap by examining the influence of load sequence and block loading on fatigue damage in adhesive joints of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) composites. A novel bilinear traction-separation law based on the Fatigue Crack Growth Rate (FCGR) rule is introduced to predict fatigue failure under step/variable loads, accounting for load history, sequence, and interaction effects. This model was validated using a double-lap joint model under step/variable loading across four experimental scenarios. The proposed model outperformed existing fatigue damage-accumulation models, significantly reducing the Relative Error of Prediction (REP). Notably, the proposed model significantly reduced the Relative Error of Prediction (REP), achieving reductions from 81.10% to as low as 0.013% in certain cases. The proposed bilinear law exhibited an accelerated damage accumulation rate per cycle for low-to-high loading situations and a decelerated rate for high-to-low loading scenarios, aligning more closely with experimental observations. The proposed model offers practical benefits by improving fatigue life predictions, enabling optimized FRP composite designs, and minimizing overengineering. These advancements are particularly relevant in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and wind energy, where structural durability and safety are paramount. This research represents a significant step forward in the fatigue analysis of composite adhesive joints, paving the way for more reliable engineering solutions.
Numerical Simulation of Typhoon Waves in an Offshore Wind Farm Area of the South China Sea
Authors: Zhang Baofeng , Li Xu , Wang Lizhong , Gao Yangyang
Published: February 2025

Environmental load data are an essential input for the analysis of offshore wind structures in typhoon-prone marine environments. However, numerical simulations of typhoon waves lack a systematic examination of the specific influence of typhoon trajectories on the spatial evolution of wave fields. In particular, the intricate mechanisms governing wave propagation within wind farm areas remain poorly understood. This present study, drawing upon a real-world case in an offshore wind farm area in the South China Sea, employs the Finite Volume Coastal Ocean Model–Surface Wave Module (FVCOM–SWAVE) wave–current coupling model to assess the joint wind–wave distribution characteristics during 35 typhoon events. The findings reveal that typhoon wave fields exhibit a notable rightward bias. As waves approach the coast, the significant wave height decreases progressively due to wave breaking, friction, refraction, and nonlinear interactions. During the passage of typhoons Prapiroon, Hato, and Mangkhut, the significant wave height distribution in the wind farm area closely correlated with the wind speed distribution. By constructing a joint distribution function of sea wind and wave elements, the joint distribution characteristics of wind speed and significant wave height for different return periods can be obtained, providing important oceanic environmental inputs for the design analysis of offshore wind structures.
Horizontal Distribution of Natural Radionuclides and Cs-137 in Sediment Along Dixcove Beach
Authors: Akuo-ko Esther Osei , Shahrokhi Amin , Adelikhah Mohammademad , Amponsem Eunice , Samolej Krzysztof , Csordás Anita , Kovács Tibor
Published: February 2025

The presence of radionuclides in environmental media, including sediment, is critical in assessing potential health risks due to external gamma radiation. This study investigates the spatial distribution of natural (Ra-226, Th-232, K-40) and artificial (Cs-137) radionuclides in sediment along the Dixcove coastline, Ghana, using High-Purity Germanium (HPGe) gamma-ray spectroscopy. The activity concentrations of Ra-226 ranged from ~14 to ~23 Bq/kg, Th-232 from ~3 to ~10 Bq/kg, and K-40 from ~44 to ~93 Bq/kg, with Cs-137 levels between 0.2 and 1.3 Bq/kg. The highest concentrations of Ra-226 and K-40 were found On-shore, suggesting terrestrial influence, while Th-232 displayed a more uniform distribution. Radiological risk assessments, including radium equivalent activity (Raeq), annual effective dose (AED), and gamma index (Iγ), confirmed that all measured values were below international safety thresholds, indicating no significant health risk. However, the variability in Cs-137 distribution suggests the need for continued monitoring to assess potential long-term contamination trends. A significant discrepancy was observed when comparing Cs-137 values from this study (maximum 1.3 Bq/kg) with previously reported data (~110 Bq/kg), raising concerns about methodological differences or environmental changes, which require further investigation. To address the observed discrepancies between this study and previous investigations, future research should incorporate in situ measurement techniques for a more comprehensive assessment of Cs-137 distribution.
Numerical Study of Slamming Loads on Bow Flare of FPSO Model by Irregular Waves
Authors: Kim Young Jun , Kim Kyong-Hwan , Nam Bo Woo , Hong Sa Young , Ha Yoon-Jin
Published: February 2025

Numerical studies were performed to investigate bow flare slamming loads under irregular waves. To estimate the slamming forces in the simulations, two time windows were selected based on existing experimental data. This study examined horizontal and vertical slamming phenomena by analyzing the relationship between the motions and the resulting slamming forces. The horizontal and vertical slamming forces from the simulations were directly compared with the experimental data. Furthermore, the experiment and simulation results were compared against a representative classification code for additional validation. The findings provide insights into the physical phenomena of horizontal and vertical slamming and confirm that the formulation suggested by classification societies provides a reasonable estimation of slamming loads. Finally, the results emphasize that both horizontal and vertical slamming forces are significant design parameters.
An LES Investigation of Flow Field Around the Cuboid Artificial Reef at Different Angles of Attack
Authors: Dai Jie , Xu Qianshun , Gong Yiqing , Lu Yang , Liu Xinbo , Mao Jingqiao
Published: February 2025

The placement of artificial reefs (ARs) significantly influences local hydrodynamics and nutrient transport, both of which are crucial for enhancing marine ecosystems and improving marine habitats. Large eddy simulations (LESs) are performed to study the flow field around a cuboid artificial reef (CAR) with three inflow angles (α = 0°, 45°, and 90°). The numerical method is successfully validated with experimental data, and a reasonable grid resolution is chosen. The results demonstrate that the case with an inflow angle of 45° exhibits superior flow field performance, including the largest recirculation bubble length and the maximum volumes for both the upwelling and wake regions. Stronger turbulence is also observed around the CAR at this inflow angle, attributed to the intensified shear layer. The instantaneous flow features torn horseshoe vortices and rollers shed from the shear layer, which further develop into hairpin vortices.
Interplay Between Diabetes, Obesity and Glioblastoma Multiforme, and the Role of Nanotechnology in Its Treatment
Authors: De Sourav , Banerjee Sabyasachi , Dey Gourab , Banerjee Subhasis , Kumar S.K. Ashok
Published: February 2025

A very aggressive and deadly brain cancer, glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) poses formidable obstacles to effective therapy. Despite advancements in conventional therapies like surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, the prognosis for GBM patients remains poor, with limited survival outcomes. Nanotechnology is gaining popularity as a promising platform for managing GBM, offering targeted drug delivery, improved therapeutic efficacy, and reduced systemic toxicity. This review offers a comprehensive analysis of the current therapeutic approach for GBM using nanotechnology-based interventions. This study explored various nanocarrier (NC) systems like polymeric nanoparticles, liposomes, dendrimers, polymeric micelles, and mesoporous silica nanoparticles for improved precision as well as efficacy in encapsulating and delivering therapeutic agents to GBM tumors. Methods for improving drug delivery into GBM cells are described in this study, including novel delivery modalities such as convection-enhanced delivery, intranasal administration, magnetic hyperthermia, peptide-guided nanoparticles, and immune liposomes. It also explores the influence of diabetes and obesity on GBM prognosis and survival rates, suggesting that managing glucose levels and using metformin may improve patient outcomes. The discussion focuses on the advancements in nanotechnology-enabled GBM therapy, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in implementing these promising technologies in clinical practice. The study highlights the potential of nanotechnology and metabolic modulation in transforming GBM treatment strategies. To further understand how these factors impact GBM patients and develop innovative nanotechnology-based treatments for GBM and diabetes mellitus, more study is necessary.
Bibliometric Analysis of Desertification in the Period from 1974 to 2024 Based on the Scopus Database
Authors: Berdyyev Arslan , Al-Masnay Yousef A. , Juliev Mukhiddin , Abuduwaili Jilili
Published: February 2025

Desertification remains a critical global issue driven by climate change, unsustainable land use, and socio-economic pressures. This bibliometric review provides an in-depth analysis of desertification research from 1974 to 2024 using the Scopus database to identify trends, key players, and methodological advances. Publications grew exponentially during this period, from 21 in 1974 to a peak of 186 in 2023, demonstrating growing academic and policy attention. The analysis found that 4178 authors contributed to 2004 peer-reviewed articles, with China emerging as a leading research hub, contributing 386 publications and leading efforts in environmental restoration projects such as the Great Green Wall. Advanced methodologies, including remote sensing and geographic information systems (GIS), have facilitated large-scale monitoring, despite challenges such as data inconsistencies and limited resolution. Institutions such as Guizhou Normal University and Lanzhou University have led the global research effort, publishing 316 and 124 publications, respectively. Influential journals, including Land Degradation and Development and the Journal of Arid Environments, have played a key role in shaping the discourse. Historical analysis has highlighted the persistent threat of desertification to human societies, exemplified by the decline of civilizations such as the Sumerian and Khorezmian. Despite significant progress, regional differences in research attention persist, with Central Asia receiving limited attention despite its vulnerability. This review highlights the need for standardized methodologies, interdisciplinary approaches, and enhanced international collaboration. By leveraging advanced technologies and sustainable land management practices, the global community can mitigate the environmental and socio-economic impacts of desertification, promoting the resilience of ecosystems and communities while moving toward land degradation neutrality.
The Welsh Verbal Noun
Authors: Asmus Sabine
Published: February 2025

The verbal noun in the modern, currently spoken p-Celtic language Welsh is of a different nature than any other word class known in Standard Average European Languages (SAEs), to which the Insular Celtic tongues do not belong. This subject has occasionally attracted attention. Welsh language grammars clearly identify a berfenw ‘verb noun’, which Thomas (1996, p. 28) calls a citation form with no specific person or time allocation. However, non-Welsh descriptions of the verbal noun tend to trigger confusion by allocating varied SAE terms to it, like ‘verb noun infinitives’ (Myhill, 1985), ‘verbal noun infinitives’ (Carnie & Guilfoyle, 2000, p. 10), ‘infinitives’ (Borsley et al., 2007, p. 70), and ‘non-finite verb(al) forms’ (Sackmann, 2022, p. 2), most of them belittling the prominent nominal functions of this word class. Coming from a historical perspective, Scherschel et al. (2018) call the Welsh verbal noun an ‘event noun’, which seems more appropriate, as is shown in this paper, in which a detailed analysis of the major features of this Welsh word class is carried out.
Reflexivization and Mình-Exceptional Local Binding by a Monomorphemic Anaphor?
Authors: Simpson Andrew , Pham Linh
Published: February 2025

This paper considers the distribution of the anaphor mình in Vietnamese and whether mình can be locally bound in the absence of the reflexivizing element tự. The patterning of Vietnamese mình poses a potential challenge to theories of binding based on claims that anaphors that are monomorphemic reject local binding and are unable to reflexivize a predicate. This paper reports on an experiment designed to probe judgements of mình in local reflexive interpretations and concludes that, for many speakers from different regions of Vietnam, mình in object position may be interpreted reflexively with the subject of the same clause, without the need for tự. On the basis of patterns involving ellipsis and quantificational subjects, it is further shown that this is a genuine binding relation and not simple co-reference. Such conclusions are noted to have significant consequences for certain approaches to binding.
Cardio-Respiratory, Functional and Antalgic Effects of the Integrated Thermal Care Protocol After Breast Cancer Surgery
Authors: Barassi Giovanni , Spina Stefania , D’Alessandro Francesco , Prosperi Loris , Marinucci Celeste , Lombardi Massimo , Panunzio Maurizio , Santamato Andrea
Published: February 2025

Background: In the cardio-respiratory rehabilitation field, thermal medicine represents an interesting complementary therapy approach. It can aid in complex medical contexts characterized by cardio-respiratory deficiency, functional limitation, and pain determined by the invasiveness of pharmacological and surgical treatments in combination with limited post-surgical physical activity. Methods: We investigated the evolution of cardio-respiratory and functional performances following the application of the Integrated Thermal Care (ITC) protocol in 11 mastectomized/quadrantectomized women (mean age of 54 years). The ITC protocol consisted of hydroponic treatments, steam inhalations treatment, hydrokinesitherapy, and manual treatments. Patients were assessed before and after a cycle of 1 h long treatment sessions, which were performed 5 days a week for 4 weeks. The outcomes were measured through the following scales and tests: Piper Fatigue Scale (PIPER), 6-Minute Walking Test (6MWT), Five Times Sit-to-Stand (5STS), Range of Arm Motion (ROM), Disability of the Arm–Shoulder–Hand Scale (DASH), and Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Results: We found appreciable improvements in cardio-respiratory efficiency and in pain perception exemplified by a reduction of PIPER, 5STS, DASH, and NPRS values together with an increase in 6MWT and ROM values. Conclusions: We conclude that ITC is a promising rehabilitative tool to enhance cardio-respiratory and functional performance and reduce pain after mastectomy/quadrantectomy.
The Golden Year? Early Intervention Yields Superior Outcomes in Chronic Pelvic Pain with Pudendal Neuralgia: A Comparative Analysis of Early vs. Delayed Treatment
Authors: Ciudin Alexandru , Carrion Albert , Regue Rosa , Rodriguez Alfredo , Garcia-Cruz Eduardo , Finkelstein Diana , Mercader Claudia , Toma Cristian , Popescu Razvan , Persu Cristian , Colom Sergi , Camps Narcis , Serrate Ramon , Ribal María José
Published: February 2025

Background: Chronic pelvic pain (CPP) associated with pudendal neuralgia (PN) significantly impacts quality of life (QoL). Pudendal nerve infiltration is a recognized treatment, but the optimal timing of intervention remains unclear. Methods: This prospective study included 81 patients diagnosed with PN and treated with pudendal nerve infiltrations. Outcomes were assessed using the Visual Analog Scale (VAS), Spanish Pain Questionnaire (CDE–McGill), and the SF-12 health survey. Significant improvement was defined as a VAS reduction > 4 points and a QoL increase > 15 points. An ROC curve analysis identified a 13-month time-to-treatment threshold (sensitivity 78%, specificity 72%), categorizing patients into early (n = 27) and delayed treatment groups (n = 54). Results: The early treatment group showed significantly greater reductions in VAS scores (5.4 vs. 3.4 points, p < 0.01) and QoL improvements (18 vs. 8 points, p < 0.01) compared to the delayed group. Early intervention reduced reinfiltration rates (10% vs. 35%, p < 0.05) and decreased medication use, with 81% discontinuing gabapentin compared to 41% in the delayed group. Similar trends were observed for tryptizol (44% vs. 35%) and tramadol (74% vs. 30%). Multivariate analysis confirmed time to treatment as the strongest predictor of outcomes, with each additional month delaying treatment associated with a 0.18-point increase in final VAS scores (p < 0.001). Delayed treatment was linked to higher final doses of gabapentin (p = 0.01), dexketoprofen (p < 0.001), and tramadol (p = 0.012). Minimal complications were reported (15%, Clavien I). Conclusions: Early intervention in PN significantly improves pain, QoL, and reduces reinfiltration and medication reliance, supporting timely treatment for optimal outcomes.