bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Ecology of Climate Change: Using Virtual Reality to Share, Experience, and Cultivate Local and Global Perspectives
Authors: Carmona-Galindo Victor Daniel , Velado-Cano Maryory Andrea , Groat-Carmona Anna Maria
Published: February 2025

The global challenge of climate change demands innovative, inclusive, and experiential education that fosters ecological literacy, behavioral change, and climate advocacy. This study explores a cross-cultural collaboration between two undergraduate ecology courses—one at the University of La Verne (ULV) in California and the other at the Universidad Centroamericana José Simeón Cañas (UCA) in El Salvador—that employed 360° virtual reality (VR) photosphere photographs to investigate climate change impacts. Students documented local ecological phenomena, such as drought and habitat loss, and shared insights with international peers, facilitating a rich exchange of perspectives across biomes. Generative AI tools like ChatGPT were utilized to overcome language barriers, enabling equitable participation and enhancing cross-cultural communication. The findings highlight VR’s transformative role in helping students visualize and communicate complex ecological concepts while fostering empathy, emotional engagement, and agency as climate advocates. Institutional and curricular factors shaping the integration of VR-based approaches are discussed, along with their potential to drive behavioral shifts and promote global engagement. This study demonstrates that immersive technologies, combined with collaborative learning, provide a powerful framework for bridging geographic and cultural divides, equipping students with the tools and perspectives needed to address the critical global challenges posed by climate change.
“It Is Not a Question of if Anymore, It Is a Question of When”: Teacher Emotions and Visions of Identity-Conscious Teaching
Authors: Kessler Meghan A.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the findings from a qualitative analysis of teacher writing samples collected during a graduate-level, online course exploring issues of equity and identity in education. These writing samples discussed teachers’ perceptions and emotions relating to teaching experiences and imaginations. The concepts of critical emotional praxis and teacher visioning are engaged in analysis to explore teachers’ emotions. Findings elucidate the complexity of encouraging and challenging emotions experienced by teachers regarding identity-conscious teaching in today’s sociopolitical environment.
Another Brick in the Wall to Understand the Complex Process of Self-Regulated Learning: General and Domain-Specific Features of SRL
Authors: Aydan Seda
Published: February 2025

Self-regulated learning (SRL) is often defined as goal-directed behavior of learners that they display on a regular basis. Models of SRL present general stages of SRL through which learners go without making a difference between different fields of learning. However, there is also research showing that there is not one set of self-regulated actions which assist learners in regulating their behavior in every context. Instead, there are types of self-regulated actions which fit into different contexts for different learners and for different tasks as well as different domains. To shed light on this matter, this study investigated whether self-regulation is a general concept or a domain-specific characteristic. The data of the study were collected from high achieving students studying at the top-ranking science high schools of Türkiye which accept students through a competitive centralized exam. The data were collected via interviews (n = 15) whose participants were selected among the ones receiving the highest score from Self-regulatory Strategies Scale (SRSS). The results of the study showed that self-regulated learning can be depicted as a general characteristic as well as a domain-specific one, as it is a complex process that subsumes both general and domain attributes. The results of this study can be utilized to design impactful SRL interventions, as it provides a comprehensive report of the general and domain-specific phases of SRL.
Integrated Rover Path Planning and Validation on Real Outdoor Terrain Scenarios Using Satellite Information to Conduct a Real Achievable Trajectory
Authors: Brad Stelian , Balog Bogdan
Published: February 2025

The reliable and efficient navigation for mobile robots across challenging outdoor terrains is critical for autonomous robotics. Traditional methods for planning the path of such robots often emphasize minimizing the travel distance but do not accommodate terrain stability, variability, or energy efficiency. The study proposes an integrated approach between satellite-driven geolocation data and terrain-specific features that enhance the path planning strategies in complex outdoor environments. Our method proposes a controller that uses search-based algorithms to generate energy-efficient and dynamically stable trajectories incorporating surface characteristics and environmental data from satellite imagery. By integrating our method, the proposed framework identifies safer and more reliable routes, achieving a significant 32% improvement in traction characteristics compared to the conventional models of path-finding approaches. Our method’s benefits over traditional approaches include improved safety, extended operational efficiency, and the ability to navigate unpredictable and dynamic environments. This makes it ideal for planetary exploration, disaster response in landslide-prone areas, agricultural automation for precision farming in rough terrains, search and rescue operations in earthquake-affected areas, and autonomous delivery systems navigation into rural and unstructured landscapes. It redefines autonomous navigation through terrain-aware planning and delivers a robust performance approach in unpredictable and dynamic environments.
Vacuum-Insulated Glazing Assessment by CFD Modeling and Laboratory Measurements
Authors: Schnotale Jacek , Baldinelli Giorgio , Bianchi Francesco , Lechowska Agnieszka
Published: February 2025

This paper concerns measurements and CFD simulations of vacuum-insulated glazing (VIG), which consists of two glass panes separated by a narrow gap from which air has been removed. Distancers, e.g., in the form of small balls, are inserted into this gap every few centimeters to prevent the glass from deflecting. In the first part, simulations of two-pane VIG thermal transmittance with the Ansys Fluent program are described, resulting in thermal transmittance of VIG without the network of distancers equal to 2.18 W/(m2K) and with the distancers equal to 2.29 W/(m2K). The influence of the supports on the thermal transmittance of VIG is also determined. The CFD results show that the supporting balls increase the two-pane VIG thermal transmittance by about 0.15% with respect to the glazing without the distancers. Then, VIG is analyzed both numerically and tested in two measurement stands. Firstly, the tests are performed in a guarded hot-plate apparatus, according to the EN ISO 8302 standard. The two-pane glazing with one low-emissivity coating has a measured thermal transmittance equal to 1.75 W/(m2K). Other measurements were undertaken in the calorimetric chamber equipped with the hot-box apparatus. The results of the numerical assessment are then compared to the measurements of the existing three-pane vacuum-insulated glazing with two low-emissivity coatings, the same as simulated. The procedure follows the EN ISO 8990 standard. Measurement results of 1.10 W/(m2K) are compared to the simulation results of VIG thermal transmittance equal to 1.09 W/(m2K). A satisfactory agreement is reached. Additionally, this paper considers a new correction coefficient to thermal transmittance according to standard EN 673 in order to achieve a proper calculation of vacuum-insulated glazing in the center-of-glass region. The authors propose to use an adjustment coefficient of 1.05 when calculating the thermal transmittance of vacuum-insulated glazing without taking into account convection in the vacuum space and the thermal influence of distancers.
Combining UAV and Sentinel Satellite Data to Delineate Ecotones at Multiscale
Authors: Ma Yuxin , Xie Zhangjian , She Xiaolin , De Boeck Hans J. , Liu Weihong , Yang Chaoying , Li Ninglv , Wang Bin , Liu Wenjun , Zhang Zhiming
Published: February 2025

Ecotones, i.e., transition zones between habitats, are important landscape features, yet they are often ignored in landscape monitoring. This study addresses the challenge of delineating ecotones at multiple scales by integrating multisource remote sensing data, including ultra-high-resolution RGB images, LiDAR data from UAVs, and satellite data. We first developed a fine-resolution landcover map of three plots in Yunnan, China, with accurate delineation of ecotones using orthoimages and canopy height data derived from UAV-LiDAR. These maps were subsequently used as the training set for four machine learning models, from which the most effective model was selected as an upscaling model. The satellite data, encompassing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR; Sentinel-1), multispectral imagery (Sentinel-2), and topographic data, functioned as explanatory variables. The Random Forest model performed the best among the four models (kappa coefficient = 0.78), with the red band, shortwave infrared band, and vegetation red edge band as the most significant spectral variables. Using this RF model, we compared landscape patterns between 2017 and 2023 to test the model’s ability to quantify ecotone dynamics. We found an increase in ecotone over this period that can be attributed to an expansion of 0.287 km2 (1.1%). In sum, this study demonstrates the effectiveness of combining UAV and satellite data for precise, large-scale ecotone detection. This can enhance our understanding of the dynamic relationship between ecological processes and landscape pattern evolution.
Federated Learning System for Dynamic Radio/MEC Resource Allocation and Slicing Control in Open Radio Access Network
Authors: Martínez-Morfa Mario , Ruiz de Mendoza Carlos , Cervelló-Pastor Cristina , Sallent-Ribes Sebastia
Published: February 2025

The evolution of cellular networks from fifth-generation (5G) architectures to beyond 5G (B5G) and sixth-generation (6G) systems necessitates innovative solutions to overcome the limitations of traditional Radio Access Network (RAN) infrastructures. Existing monolithic and proprietary RAN components restrict adaptability, interoperability, and optimal resource utilization, posing challenges in meeting the stringent requirements of next-generation applications. The Open Radio Access Network (O-RAN) and Multi-Access Edge Computing (MEC) have emerged as transformative paradigms, enabling disaggregation, virtualization, and real-time adaptability—which are key to achieving ultra-low latency, enhanced bandwidth efficiency, and intelligent resource management in future cellular systems. This paper presents a Federated Deep Reinforcement Learning (FDRL) framework for dynamic radio and edge computing resource allocation and slicing management in O-RAN environments. An Integer Linear Programming (ILP) model has also been developed, resulting in the proposed FDRL solution drastically reducing the system response time. On the other hand, unlike centralized Reinforcement Learning (RL) approaches, the proposed FDRL solution leverages Federated Learning (FL) to optimize performance while preserving data privacy and reducing communication overhead. Comparative evaluations against centralized models demonstrate that the federated approach improves learning efficiency and reduces bandwidth consumption. The system has been rigorously tested across multiple scenarios, including multi-client O-RAN environments and loss-of-synchronization conditions, confirming its resilience in distributed deployments. Additionally, a case study simulating realistic traffic profiles validates the proposed framework’s ability to dynamically manage radio and computational resources, ensuring efficient and adaptive O-RAN slicing for diverse and high-mobility scenarios.
Evaluate the Effects of Different Processing Methods on Red Dragon Fruit (Hylocereus species) Juice from the Perspective of Physicochemical Properties and Metabolic Profiles
Authors: Chen Shuai , Li Yansong , Kang Jiamu , Su Congyan , Liu Yuyi , Cheng Yanfei , Wang Zexin , Li Shuxian , Li Congfa
Published: February 2025

Red dragon fruit juice (RDFJ) is a common fruit processing product on the market, and different processing methods can affect its quality. This study selected traditional thermal processing methods such as pasteurization and novel non-thermal processing methods like ultrasonication and cold plasma to treat red dragon fruit juice. The effects of different processing methods on the quality of red dragon fruit juice were comprehensively evaluated through physicochemical properties, in vitro activity, metabolomics and flavoromics. The results indicate that the cloud stability of cold plasma (CP) treatment increased by 16.64%, the total polyphenol content increased by 13.76%, and its antioxidant capacity was higher than that of other treatments. Cold plasma significantly increased the content of L-tyrosine and affected the amino acid metabolic pathways of RDFJ, which can contribute to the total phenolic content of RDFJ and antioxidant activity. CP treatment effectively preserved the aroma components of RDFJ and decreased the content of harmful furan volatile compounds. The results suggest that cold plasma is a promising innovative non-thermal processing technique in RDFJ.
Autonomic Balance Differences Through Heart Rate Variability Between Adults with and Without Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Fernández-Morales Carlos , Espejo-Antúnez Luis , Albornoz-Cabello Manuel , Yáñez-Álvarez Ángel Rufino , Cardero-Durán María de los Ángeles
Published: February 2025

Background: Chronic pain has been reported as one of the leading causes of disability in the world, being associated with a potential impact on autonomic balance. Objective: The aim was to compare sympathetic and parasympathetic activity through heart rate variability (HRV) between adults with and without chronic low back pain (CLBP). Methods: An observational study was conducted in which HRV parameters were recorded using time-domain measures—root mean square of successive differences between consecutive RR intervals (rMSSD), minimum and maximum heart rate variability (Min HR and Max HR), and mean heart rate (Mean HR)—and nonlinear measures—Poincaré plot indices SD1 and SD2, Stress Score (SS), and sympathetic/parasympathetic ratio (S:PS). Results: The results showed statistically significant differences between groups (p < 0.05), with higher parasympathetic activity parameters in the group of healthy subjects (rMSSD: p < 0.001; SD1: p = 0.030) and higher sympathetic activity in the CLBP group (SD2, SS, and S:PS ratio: p < 0.001). All parameters showed large effect sizes. Conclusions: These findings show the association between autonomic balance mechanisms and pain regulation in adults with CLBP.
Bulwark Effect of Response in a Causal Model of Disruptive Clinician Behavior: A Quantitative Analysis of the Prevalence and Impact in Japanese General Hospitals
Authors: Fujimoto Manabu , Shimamura Mika , Miyazaki Hiroaki
Published: February 2025

Background: Disruptive clinician behavior (DCB) negatively affects patient safety by impairing healthcare team communication. In Japanese hospitals, hierarchical structures and traditional leadership styles contribute to its persistence. This study examines the prevalence and impact of DCB in two general hospitals and evaluates the role of response strategies in mitigating its effects. Methods: A quantitative web-based survey was conducted among 256 healthcare professionals from two general hospitals (751 and 661 beds). The survey included demographic data, a validated DCB scale, and a structured questionnaire assessing triggers, responses, and impacts. Statistical analyses included principal component analysis (PCA), structural equation modeling (SEM), and moderated mediation analysis. Results: Among participants, 79.3% reported experiencing or witnessing DCB. Psychological/social impact partially mediated the relationship between DCB and hospital management issues (β = 0.19, p = 0.001). Response strategies reduced the psychological/social impact of DCB (β = −0.20, p < 0.001) but did not mitigate its direct effect on hospital management. Conclusions: While prompt responses can alleviate the psychological burden on victims, they do not prevent broader institutional damage caused by DCB. Effective interventions should focus on both individual and organizational measures to reduce the occurrence of DCB.
A General Overview of Transthyretin Cardiac Amyloidosis and Summary of Expert Opinions on Pre-Symptomatic Testing and Management of Asymptomatic Patients with a Focus on Transthyretin V122I
Authors: Sawalha Khalid , Alkhatib Deya A.
Published: February 2025

Transthyretin cardiac amyloidosis (TTR-CA) is a pathological condition characterized by the accumulation of misfolded transthyretin (TTR) protein in the heart, leading to restrictive cardiomyopathy. TTR-CA has gained increasing recognition in recent years due to its significant impact on morbidity and mortality. It is typically diagnosed when symptoms of heart failure appear. However, with advancements in non-invasive imaging, early and precise diagnosis of TTR-CA is now possible, enabling clinicians to take advantage of current therapeutic interventions that are more effective when initiated at an earlier stage of the disease. Moreover, genetic testing can now assist clinicians in identifying asymptomatic individuals who are at risk of developing the disease before clinical features manifest. In this review, we provide a general overview of TTR-CA and summarize expert opinions on pre-symptomatic testing and the management of asymptomatic patients, with a particular focus on the V122I mutation. This article aims to provide clinicians with a better understanding of TTR-CA and the current best practices for managing asymptomatic patients with this genetic predisposition.
Induced Genetic Deletion of Cell Division Autoantigen 1 in Adulthood Attenuates Diabetes-Associated Renal Fibrosis
Authors: Huynh Pacific , Yang Yuxin , Tian Hua , Wu Tieqiao , Huang Minling , Tang Jiali , Dai Aozhi , Cooper Mark E. , Chai Zhonglin
Published: February 2025

Cell Division Autoantigen 1 (CDA1) has been shown to play a role in enhancing transforming growth factor beta (TGFβ) signaling, leading to fibrosis in diabetic kidney disease (DKD) using mouse strains with global CDA1 gene deletion. In these models, diabetes has been induced, leading to DKD in the absence of CDA1. It is still unknown whether inhibition of CDA1 activity after onset of diabetes in the presence of CDA1 can attenuate renal fibrosis in vivo. Thus, we examined the effect of inducing genetic deletion of CDA1 in adulthood in mice using a tamoxifen-activated estrogen receptor fused cyclization recombinase (ERCre)-Locus of cross-over in P1 (LoxP) system. Male mice at 6–8 weeks of age were rendered diabetic with streptozotocin (STZ) or injected with buffer alone to serve as non-diabetic controls. Five weeks later, genetic deletion of CDA1 was induced by tamoxifen administration in CDA1Flox/ERCre mice, with mice injected with vehicle to serve as CDA1 wildtype controls. Kidney tissues were analyzed 5 weeks after deletion of CDA1. Tamoxifen administration reduced CDA1 gene expression by ~80% in CDA1Flox/ERCre mice. Renal levels of phosphorylated Smad3 and expression of profibrotic genes as well as accumulation of extracellular matrix proteins (ECMs) such as collagens III and IV were increased in diabetic mice, and induced deletion of CDA1 led to attenuation of these parameters. Therefore, targeting CDA1 after onset of diabetes in mice where CDA1 was initially expressed is able to attenuate diabetes-associated renal injury, providing the impetus to target this pathway in order to reduce diabetic kidney disease.
Urinary Titin on the First Postoperative Day Predicts Long-Term Skeletal Muscle Loss in Patients with Gastroenterological Cancer
Authors: Kyomen Momoko , Tatsumi Ayako , Tsutsumi Rie , Izumi-Mishima Yuna , Hyodo Mizusa , Tanaka Eiji , Iguchi Kohta , Taura Kojiro , Terajima Hiroaki , Honjo Sachiko , Hamasaki Akihiro , Nomura Kazuhiro , Sakaue Hiroshi
Published: February 2025

Perioperative malnutrition is common in patients with gastroenterological cancer and contributes to postoperative skeletal muscle atrophy, which adversely affects their prognosis. Early assessment of skeletal muscle atrophy is crucial for improving postoperative outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of urinary titin as a biomarker for skeletal muscle atrophy. A prospective observational study was conducted, and a total of 34 gastroenterological cancer patients were included. Urinary titin levels were measured using ELISA at admission, postoperative days (POD) 1, 7, and 14, and at 6 months after surgery. Surgical procedure, operative time, cancer stage, postoperative complications, hospital stay, and preoperative and postoperative body composition were evaluated, along with nutritional status and grip strength from admission to 6 months after surgery. Changes in urinary titin levels were measured at the same time points as described above. Preoperatively, the mean urinary titin level was 5.03 pmol/mg Cr, slightly higher than in healthy subjects. Urinary titin peaked at 33.71 (24.30–66.58) pmol/mg/dL Cr on POD1 and was associated with serum free branched-chain amino acid concentrations. Urinary titin on POD1 was significantly correlated with a decrease in skeletal muscle mass (rs −0.361, p = 0.036) and body cell mass (rs −0.361, p = 0.038) at 6 months postoperatively. The grip strength at 6 months postoperatively tended to decrease (rs −0.342, p = 0.052). BMI and serum LDH at admission were associated with urinary titin on POD1 but were not correlated with skeletal muscle loss at 6 months, suggesting that urinary titin on POD1 is an independent biomarker of skeletal muscle atrophy. These data indicate that urinary titin on POD1 can predict long-term skeletal muscle atrophy.
The GPR30-Mediated BMP-6/HEP/FPN Signaling Pathway Inhibits Ferroptosis in Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells to Alleviate Osteoporosis
Authors: Chen Shuangliu , Xiao Jiřimutu , Zhou Shijie , Wumiti Taxi , Zhao Zitong , Zhao Ruihua , Pan Yalan , Wang Qing , Ma Yong , Wu Lan , Guo Yang
Published: February 2025

Dysregulated iron metabolism-induced ferroptosis is considered a key pathological mechanism in the development of osteoporosis (OP). G protein-coupled receptor 30 (GPR30, also known as Gper1) is an estrogen-binding receptor that has shown therapeutic benefits in patients with certain degenerative diseases. Moreover, several studies have demonstrated the anti-ferroptotic effects of estrogen receptor activation. However, its role in the prevention and treatment of OP remains unclear, and there are currently no reports on the anti-ferroptotic function of GPR30 in OP. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the ferroptosis-related effects and mechanisms of GPR30 in the context of OP. In vivo and in vitro experiments were conducted using wild-type (WT) C57BL/6 female mice and GPR30-knockout (GPR30-KO) C57BL/6J female mice. The microarchitecture of the distal femur was assessed using micro-computed tomography (micro-CT), and histomorphological changes were analyzed via hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining. Bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) were isolated and cultured to establish an iron overload model using ferric ammonium citrate (FAC). Interventions included GPR30 overexpression via transfection and BMP-6 inhibition using LDN-214117. Cell viability was evaluated with the CCK-8 assay, while osteogenic differentiation and mineralization levels were assessed using ALP and Alizarin Red S (ARS) staining. Iron accumulation was detected via Prussian blue staining, oxidative stress levels were evaluated using ROS staining, and mitochondrial membrane potential changes were analyzed using JC-1 staining. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was employed to observe mitochondrial ultrastructural changes. Additionally, key gene and protein expression levels were measured using immunofluorescence and Western blotting. The micro-CT analysis revealed significant bone microarchitecture deterioration and bone loss in the GPR30-KO mouse model. At the cellular level, GPR30 overexpression markedly reduced iron accumulation and oxidative stress in BMSCs, restored the mitochondrial membrane potential, and improved the mitochondrial ultrastructure. Furthermore, GPR30 enhanced osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs by promoting the activation of the BMP-6/HEP/FPN signaling pathway, leading to increased expression of osteogenic markers. The protective effects of GPR30 were reversed by the BMP-6 inhibitor LDN-214117, indicating that BMP-6 is a critical mediator in GPR30-regulated iron metabolism and ferroptosis inhibition. GPR30 inhibits ferroptosis in BMSCs and enhances osteogenic differentiation by activating the BMP-6/HEP/FPN signaling pathway. This provides new insights and potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of osteoporosis OP.
DIA/SWATH-Mass Spectrometry Revealing Melanoma Cell Proteome Transformations with Silver Nanoparticles: An Innovative Comparative Study
Authors: Martano Simona , Faktor Jakub , Kote Sachin , Cascione Mariafrancesca , Di Corato Riccardo , Faktorova Dagmar , Semeraro Paola , Rizzello Loris , Leporatti Stefano , Rinaldi Rosaria , De Matteis Valeria
Published: February 2025

Melanoma is an aggressive cancer with rising incidence and high mortality rates, largely due to chemotherapy resistance and molecular dysregulation. Nanotechnology, particularly silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), has emerged as a promising therapeutic avenue because of the nanoparticles’ ability to induce oxidative stress and apoptosis in cancer cells. However, conventional colloidal AgNPs lack selectivity, often causing significant damage to healthy cells. In this study, we introduce a green synthesis of AgNPs using plant extracts, providing an eco-friendly alternative with improved antitumor selectivity compared to traditional colloidal AgNPs. Leveraging label-free Data-Independent Acquisition/Sequential Window Acquisition of All Theoretical Mass Spectrometry (DIA/SWATH MS) quantitative proteomics, we investigated the antitumor effects of green-synthesized versus traditional AgNPs on A375 melanoma cells at 24 and 48 h. Our findings reveal that green AgNPs selectively reduced melanoma cell viability while sparing healthy keratinocytes (HaCaT), a benefit not observed with colloidal AgNPs. Proteomic analysis highlighted that green AgNPs significantly downregulated oncogenes, enhanced carbohydrate metabolism, and disrupted copper homeostasis in melanoma cells. This marks the first study to explore the differential effects of green and traditional AgNPs on melanoma using an integrated proteomic approach, underscoring the molecular potential of green AgNPs as a targeted and sustainable option for cancer therapy.
Genome Sequence, Comparative Genome Analysis, and Expression Profiling of the Chitinase GH18 Gene Family in Cordyceps javanica Bd01
Authors: Zhu Tao , Hussain Mehboob , Ning Jingyi , Chen Xiao , Shi Chunlan , Yang Dewei , Gao Xi , Wu Guoxing
Published: February 2025

The fungus Cordyceps javanica is known for entomopathogenicity and effective in the control of various arthropods. Here, we aimed to reveal the chitinase GH18 gene family expansion through the high throughput sequencing of the genome of C. javanica strain Bd01 isolated from Xylotrechus quadripes larvae. The genome was 34 Mb in size with 9590 protein-coding genes. By comparative genome analysis, it was found that the family GH18 of chitinase genes was expanded in C. javanica Bd01. The phylogenetic analysis of 27 GH18 genes, compared with those from four other species, revealed that the genes could be categorized into three distinct groups based on their conserved domains. Genes within the same cluster exhibited shared protein motifs and orthologous relationships. The molecular mass of these GH18 genes ranged from 14.03 kDa to 81.41 kDa, while their theoretical isoelectric point (pI) values spanned from 4.40 to 7.92. Most chitinases were characterized as extracellular, hydrophilic, and thermostable proteins with a negative charge. Additionally, they demonstrated favorable in vivo half-life stability. A three-dimensional structural model of the GH18 protein was further generated using the SWISS-MODEL server. These findings establish a robust genomic framework elucidating the functional diversity, evolutionary conservation patterns, and mechanistic contributions of virulence-associated genetic determinants.
Bone Morphogenetic Protein 7 Improves Wound Healing in Diabetes by Decreasing Inflammation and Promoting M2 Macrophage Polarization
Authors: Da Silva Jessica , Figueiredo Ana , Tseng Yu-Hua , Carvalho Eugenia , Leal Ermelindo C.
Published: February 2025

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are a devastating complication of diabetes, presenting limited treatment success rates due to their complex pathophysiology. Bone morphogenetic protein 7 (BMP7) confers tissue protective and regenerative functions, but its potential role in diabetic wound healing is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of topical BMP7 treatment in wound healing using a streptozotocin-induced diabetic mouse model. The expression of markers of wound healing progression were detected using RT-PCR or immunohistochemistry. Overall, BMP7 improved wound closure, as well as maturation of granulation tissue and collagen deposition, as evidenced by hematoxylin and eosin and Masson’s trichrome histological analysis. The expression of inflammatory markers (IL-6, TNF-α) and matrix metalloproteinase-9 were decreased in BMP7-treated wounds, together with the number of pro-inflammatory M1 macrophages and T lymphocytes. The number of anti-inflammatory M2 macrophages was increased in BMP7-treated wounds. Moreover, BMP7 decreased oxidative stress and increased Ki67+ cells and CD31+ cells, indicating induced proliferation and angiogenesis in the wound bed compared to the control wounds. Finally, BMP7 activated the ERK pathway and suppressed the p38 pathway in diabetic wounds. Together, our data suggest that BMP7 enhanced skin wound healing in diabetes by decreasing local inflammation and oxidative stress, which promoted a regenerative environment for collagen deposition, wound maturation, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis. These findings underline BMP7 as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of skin wounds in diabetes.
Endolysins as Effective Agents for Decontaminating S. typhimurium, E. coli, and L. monocytogenes on Mung Bean Seeds
Authors: Yao Fangfang , He Jiajun , Nyaruaba Raphael , Wei Hongping , Li Yuhong
Published: February 2025

Seeds are a major source of contamination by foodborne pathogens such as Salmonella typhimurium, Escherichia coli, and Listeria monocytogenes, significantly increasing the risk of foodborne diseases associated with fresh produce like sprouts. In this study, we described novel endolysins and the engineered variants that exhibited potent bactericidal activity against these pathogens. These endolysins demonstrated strong bactericidal effects independently of outer membrane permeabilizers, effectively killing S. typhimurium, E. coli, and L. monocytogenes to undetectable levels (>4-log kill) at concentrations as low as 12.5 μg/mL. The enzymes retained their activity in complex environments, such as a wide range of temperatures (4–100 °C), pH values (4–10), serum concentrations (0–50%), and sodium chloride concentrations (0–500 mM). Furthermore, their rapid bactericidal kinetics, excellent storage stability (>18 months), and broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity enhanced their potential for application. These endolysins remained effective against stationary-phase bacteria and biofilm-forming bacteria, achieving more than 99% biofilm eradication at 200 μg/mL. Notably, at concentrations as low as 50 μg/mL, these enzymes completely decontaminated foodborne pathogens in a mung bean seed model contaminated with 4–5 log CFU of bacteria. This study is the first to report the successful use of lysins to control both Gram-negative and Gram-positive pathogens on mung bean seeds.
An Update of Salivary Biomarkers for the Diagnosis of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Guo Haiying , Yang Ruihuan , Cheng Weigao , Li Qiwen , Du Minquan
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by progressive cognition and behavior impairments. Diagnosing AD early is important for clinicians to slow down AD progression and preserve brain function. Biomarkers such as tau protein and amyloid-β peptide (Aβ) are used to aid diagnosis as clinical diagnosis often lags. Additionally, biomarkers can be used to monitor AD status and evaluate AD treatment. Clinicians detect these AD biomarkers in the brain using positron emission tomography/computed tomography or in the cerebrospinal fluid using a lumbar puncture. However, these methods are expensive and invasive. In contrast, saliva collection is simple, inexpensive, non-invasive, stress-free, and repeatable. Moreover, damage to the brain parenchyma can impact the oral cavity and some pathogenic molecules could travel back and forth from the brain to the mouth. This has prompted researchers to explore biomarkers in the saliva. Therefore, this study provides an overview of the main finding of salivary biomarkers for AD diagnosis. Based on these available studies, Aβ, tau, cholinesterase enzyme activity, lactoferrin, melatonin, cortisol, proteomics, metabolomics, exosomes, and the microbiome were changed in AD patients’ saliva when compared to controls. However, well-designed studies are essential to confirm the reliability and validity of these biomarkers in diagnosing and monitoring AD.
Beyond Trolling: Fine-Grained Detection of Antisocial Behavior in Social Media During the Pandemic
Authors: Asante Andrew , Hajek Petr
Published: February 2025

Antisocial behavior (ASB), including trolling and aggression, undermines constructive discourse and escalates during periods of societal stress, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to examine ASB on social media during the COVID-19 pandemic by leveraging a novel annotated dataset and state-of-the-art transformer models for detection and classification of ASB categories. Specifically, this study examined ASB within a gold-standard corpus of tweets collected from Ghana during a 21-day lockdown. Each tweet was meticulously annotated into ASB categories or non-ASB, enabling a comprehensive analysis of online behaviors. We employed three state-of-the-art transformer-based language models (BERT, RoBERTa, and ELECTRA) and compared their performance against traditional machine learning models. The results demonstrate that the transformer-based approaches substantially outperformed the baseline models, achieving a high detection accuracy across both binary and multiclass classification tasks. RoBERTa excelled in binary ASB detection, attaining a 95.59% accuracy and an F1-score of 94.99%, while BERT led in multiclass classification, with a 94.38% accuracy and an F1-score of 93.92%. Trolling emerged as the most prevalent ASB type, reflecting the polarizing nature of online interactions during the lockdown. This study highlights the potential of transformer-based models in detecting diverse online behaviors and emphasizes the societal implications of ASB during crises. The findings provide a foundation for enhancing moderation tools and fostering healthier online environments.
A Rubric for Peer Evaluation of Multi-User Virtual Environments for Education and Training
Authors: Lazou Chrysoula , Tsinakos Avgoustos , Kazanidis Ioannis
Published: February 2025

In a media-saturated online ecosystem, educational technology that fosters virtual interactions and learning opportunities, unlike those taking place face-to-face, has to bear special characteristics that facilitate the way we build our connection with others or access, consume, and produce new information. The present study focuses on the design and implementation of a rubric for the peer assessment of collaborative educational Virtual Reality (VR) environments that were built with the aim to provide immersive-triggered meaningful learning instances. It presents the methodology employed to create the tool, its use in peer evaluation processes, and the implementation findings. The stages of the methodology employed involve the review of existing tools, the rationale lying in the creation of the certain tool, and the recruitment of educators and/or trainers to pilot test it. To this end, there was a purposeful recruitment of participants of a postgraduate program in immersive technologies, with diverse demographics and from different disciplines, who were invited to work collaboratively, in pairs or groups of three, with the intent to design and develop an educational intervention of their choice in Spatial.io software. The stages of the methodology further involved microteaching sessions with other groups, peer evaluation based on the quality criteria provided, and self-reflection and evaluation of their educational interventions. The study outcomes revealed (i) the key evaluation criteria that proved to be critical for the design of quality immersive experiences, (ii) the usefulness of the rubric created to facilitate the pilot testing of the prototypes, and (iii) challenges and benefits that arise from peer evaluation practices. In the context of interdisciplinary, diverse age and professional experience demographics peer evaluation, digital, content, and pedagogical concerns arose providing fruitful feedback to their peers for the refinement of the design of their VR environments. Challenges and recommendations of the peer review processes are also discussed.
Conservation and Variability in Mitochondrial Genomes of Perlodidae: Insights from Comparative Mitogenomics
Authors: Yang Xiao , Huo Qing-Bo , Rehman Abdur , Zhu Ya-Fei , Du Yu-Zhou
Published: February 2025

The mitochondrial genomes of three stoneflies, e.g., Tibetisoperla wangluyui Huo and Du, 2021, Perlodinella kozlovi Klapálek, 1912 and Perlodinella epiproctalis (Zwick, 1997), were sequenced in this study, with lengths 16,043 bp, 16,024 bp, and 16,071 bp, respectively. Each mitogenome contained 37 genes including 22 tRNAs, two ribosomal RNAs, 13 protein-coding genes (PCGs), and a noncoding control region (CR). In general, standard ATN start and TAN termination codons were evident in the PCGs. Meanwhile, in this paper, three newly published mitochondrial genomes and 11 existing mitochondrial genomes of the Perlodidae from NCBI were analyzed. Among the 13 PCGs in the mitochondrial genome of Perlodidae, the lengths of atp6, atp8, cox2, cox3, cytb, nad1, nad2, nad3, and nad4 are exactly the same, and the length of cox1 is 1536–1569 bp. The length of nad4L is 297, but the length of Arcynopteryx dichroa is 300. The length of nad5 ranges from 1732 bp to 1752 bp, while that of nad6 ranges from 525 bp to 534 bp. The length of rrnL is between 1292 and 391 bp, and the length of rrnS is between 793 and 869 bp. In addition, we found that atp8 in Isoperlinae started with GTG as a start codon but in Perlodinae, it started with ATG. Despite these advances, mitochondrial genome data from the Perlodidae are still needed.
Oral Anticoagulation Choice and Dosage in Very Elderly Patients with Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: Zergioti Martha , Kyriakou Melina , Papazoglou Andreas S. , Kartas Anastasios , Moysidis Dimitrios V. , Samaras Athanasios , Karagiannidis Efstratios , Kamperidis Vasileios , Ziakas Antonios , Giannakoulas George
Published: February 2025

Background: Selecting the optimal oral anticoagulation (OAC) therapy for elderly patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) remains challenging. Our real-world study investigates clinical factors guiding OAC prescription patterns and compares outcomes between full- and reduced-dose direct-acting oral anticoagulants (DOACs) and vitamin K antagonists (VKAs) in this demographic. Methods: This post hoc analysis of the MISOAC-AF trial focused on hospitalized AF patients aged ≥ 75 years prescribed OAC at discharge. Predictors of VKA and reduced DOAC dosing were identified using adjusted odds ratios (aORs). Cox regression models calculated adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for primary (all-cause mortality) and secondary outcomes (stroke, bleeding, AF or heart failure hospitalization, cardiovascular death). Results: Among 450 elderly patients, 63.6% received DOACs and 36.4% received VKAs. Higher CHA2DS2-VASc and HAS-BLED scores and antiplatelet use predicted VKA prescription. Hypertension, prior stroke, and bleeding history favored DOAC use. Advanced age and chronic kidney disease correlated with reduced DOAC dosing. Over a 3.7-year follow-up period, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between the DOAC and VKA groups (aHR 0.79, 95% CI 0.58–1.06) or between the full-dose and reduced-dose DOAC groups (aHR 0.96, 95% CI 0.60–1.53). Secondary analyses also did not yield statistically significant results in either comparison. Conclusions: Clinical profile parameters in elderly AF patients predict VKA or DOAC use. Clinical outcomes were similar between different OAC therapies.
Comment on Krysik et al. Clinical Outcomes and Early Postoperative Complications in Boston Type I Keratoprosthesis Implantation: A Retrospective Study. J. Clin. Med. 2024, 13, 6710
Authors: Mikhail David , Milad Daniel , Harissi-Dagher Mona
Published: February 2025

We read with great interest the article “Clinical Outcomes and Early Postoperative Complications in Boston Type I Keratoprosthesis Implantation: A Retrospective Study” by Krysik et al [...]
Aortic Valve Replacement with Rapid-Deployment Bioprostheses: Long-Term Single-Center Results After 1000 Consecutive Implantations
Authors: Coti Iuliana , Werner Paul , Kaider Alexandra , El-Nashar Jasmine , Kocher Alfred , Laufer Guenther , Zimpfer Daniel , Andreas Martin
Published: February 2025

Introduction: This study aimed to analyze long-term survival and valve-related adverse events after 1000 consecutive rapid-deployment surgical aortic valve replacements (RD-SAVRs) in a single center. Methods: A total of 1000 patients following RD-SAVR at our institution were included in a prospective database. Median follow-up was 68 months (IQR: 37–91). Preoperative and operative parameters, survival and valve-related adverse events were assessed. Results: Mean age was 73 ± 7 years (45% female). Median EuroSCORE II was 2.7% (IQR: 1.4–5.5). Concomitant procedures were performed in 50% of patients. In the case of isolated SAVR, minimally invasive access was conducted in 415 patients (83%). New early pacemaker implantation was required in 9.1%. Perioperative stroke was observed in 1.6%, and the cumulative incidence of thromboembolic and major bleeding events at 10 years was 8.1% (95% CI: 6.2–10.4%). The 5- and 10-year incidences of severe structural valve degeneration were 0.8% (95% CI: 0.3–2.1%) and 9.2% (95% CI: 4.5–15.9%). Overall re-intervention or re-operation with valve explantation occurred in 38 cases, with a 10-year incidence of 7.7% (95% CI: 5.0–11.2%). Overall 30-day mortality was 0.3% (n = 3) and survival at 1, 5 and 10 years FU was 95% (95% CI: 93–96%), 81% (95% CI: 78–84%) and 58% (95% CI: 51–64%). Age, diabetes, COPD and creatinine, concomitant procedures and acute indication were independent predictive factors of mortality. Conclusions: Rapid-deployment valves appear to support minimally invasive access and can be potentially used with low operative mortality in a real-world collective. Favorable durability with acceptable valve-related event rates and mortality were observed at long-term follow-up.
Refractive Error and Ocular Pathology of Children Examined in an Ophthalmological Practice in Moldova
Authors: Ziziuchin Veronica , Horgen Gro , Sundling Vibeke
Published: February 2025

Background/Objective: Poor vision can lead to low academic performance and negatively affect the quality of life. In Moldova, there are few guidelines for vision and eye care in children. Further, the prevalence of refractive errors, visual impairment, or eye disease in Moldovan children is unknown. The study aimed to explore the prevalence of refractive errors and eye disease among children examined in ophthalmological practice in Moldova. Methods: The study had a cross-sectional design, including consecutive patients, aged <18 years, examined in an ophthalmological practice in Chișinău, Moldova, during two time periods, from July to September 2018 and from May to June 2023. Results: Data of 299 children (157 female) aged 0–18 years were collected. In all, 177 (59.2%) children had cycloplegic refraction and assessment of refractive error: 47 in the age group 0–2 years, 64 in the age group 3–6 years, and 66 in the age group 7–18 years. In children under 3 years, 8 (17%) were emmetropic (−0.50 D < SER < +0.50 D), 4 (9%) were myopic (SER ≤ −0.50 D), 34 (72%) had mild hyperopia (0.5 ≤ SE < 3.0), and 1 (2%) had high hyperopia (SER > 3.0). Among children aged 3–6 years, 11 (17%) were emmetropic (−0.50 D < SER < +0.50 D), 5 (8%) were myopic (SER ≤ −0.50 D), 46 (72%) had mild hyperopia (0.5 ≤ SER < 3.0), and 2 (3%) had high hyperopia (SER > 3.0). In children over 6 years, 33 (50%) were myopic (SER ≤ −0.50 D), 2 (3%) were emmetropic (−0.50 D < SER < +0.50 D), 27 (41%) had mild hyperopia (0.5 ≤ SER < 3.0), and 4 (6%) had high hyperopia (SER > 3.0). A total of 4 children (2.3%) had amblyopia and 19 children (6.4%) had ocular pathologies. Twelve children (6.8%) were visually impaired with their habitual correction. Conclusions: Half of the school children had myopia and a little less than half had hyperopia. Among toddlers and pre-school children, one in four had myopia or were at risk of developing myopia.
Joint Manifestations in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases, “Red Flags” for the Early Recognition and Management of Related Arthropathies: A Narrative Review
Authors: Di Cola Ilenia , Vallocchia Luca , Cipriani Paola , Ruscitti Piero
Published: February 2025

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, frequently present with extra-intestinal manifestations. Virtually all patients with IBD could be at risk for developing inflammatory arthropathies within the spectrum of spondyloarthritis (SpA). In this context, prompt recognition of musculoskeletal “red flags” (lower back pain, dactylitis, enthesitis, swelling of peripheral joints, musculoskeletal chest pain, family history of SpA, psoriasis, and anterior uveitis) is crucial for early referral and multidisciplinary management by gastroenterologists and rheumatologists. Recent advances have refined diagnostic tools including questionnaires, alongside imaging modalities and laboratory markers, enhancing the detection of SpA in IBD patients. Effective treatment strategies targeting both gastrointestinal and musculoskeletal symptoms may significantly reduce long-term morbidity in these patients. In this narrative review, we aimed to underscore the importance of integrating clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic approaches for optimal patient management and outcome over time.