bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Multicenter Investigation on the Incidence and Risk Factors of Wound Dehiscence Following Surgical Treatment of Metastatic Spinal Tumors: The Korean Society of Spinal Tumors Multicenter Study (KSST 2023-01)
Authors: Park Jin-Sung , Kang Dong-Ho , Cho Jae Hwan , Kim Young-Hoon , Lee Han-Dong , Chang Sam Yeol , Park Sang-Min , Park Se-Jun
Published: February 2025

Background: Wound dehiscence is a common complication in metastatic spinal tumor surgery, but its risk factors remain unclear. Methods: This retrospective, multicenter study included patients who underwent surgical treatment for metastatic spinal tumors between 2020 and 2022. Data on patient demographics, primary tumor type, comorbidities, laboratory values, surgical details, and the use of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and steroids were collected. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed to identify the risk factors associated with wound dehiscence, and survival analysis was conducted based on wound dehiscence. Results: Among the 277 patients included, 32 (11.6%) experienced wound dehiscence, with an average time to onset of 37.1 ± 24.3 days. Of these patients, 11 patients with wound infections required revision surgery under general anesthesia, whereas 21 patients underwent localized revision surgery. Univariate analysis identified diabetes (p = 0.002), hyperlipidemia (p = 0.026), surgical length (p = 0.008), and preoperative chemotherapy within 30 days before surgery (p = 0.007) as significant risk factors. On multivariate analysis, independent predictors included diabetes (OR: 4.02, 95% CI: 1.66–9.72, p = 0.002), surgical length (OR: 1.25, 95% CI: 1.02–1.52, p = 0.029), and preoperative chemotherapy within 30 days (OR: 3.75, 95% CI: 1.55–9.10, p = 0.003). Preoperative and postoperative radiation therapy did not significantly influence wound dehiscence. Additionally, there was no significant association between wound dehiscence and 90-day mortality or overall survival. Conclusions: This study highlights diabetes, surgical length, and preoperative chemotherapy within 30 days as significant predictors of wound dehiscence following metastatic spinal tumor surgery.
Comparison of Brucellosis and Rickettsiosis in Children: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lendner Idan , Shmueli Moshe , Elamour Siham , Ling Galina , Ben-Shimol Shalom
Published: February 2025

Background: Fever of Unknown Origin (FUO) is a diagnostic challenge in pediatrics, often stemming from zoonotic infections. In southern Israel, brucellosis and rickettsiosis are endemic and share overlapping clinical features, making diagnosis difficult. We compared the demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics of pediatric brucellosis and rickettsiosis to aid in distinguishing between these diseases and guide early empirical treatment. Methods: We performed a retrospective cohort study, conducted between 2005 and 2020, on children who tested positive for either rickettsia or brucella. Data on demographic, clinical, laboratory, treatment, and outcome parameters were analyzed using descriptive, univariate, and multivariate statistical methods. Results: Overall, 775 patients were included, 440 with brucellosis and 335 with rickettsiosis. The majority of patients were of Bedouin ethnicity (99.5% and 90.7%, respectively). In univariate analysis, brucellosis was associated with male gender, young age, limping, anemia, and prolonged hospitalization duration. Rickettsiosis was characterized by high-grade fever, rash, headache, thrombocytopenia, elevated C-reactive protein (CRP), and gastrointestinal, respiratory, and neurological symptoms. Mortality rates were low in both groups (≤0.5%). In multivariate analysis, brucellosis was associated with limping (odds ratio = 7.27; with 95% confidence interval of 5.15–10.38), hemoglobin <10 mg/dL (2.01; 1.14–3.64), age <5 years (1.95; 1.25–3.07), warm season (1.84; 1.31–2.59), and male gender (1.57; 1.10–2.25). Rickettsiosis was associated with a rash (9.06; 3.91–24.9), CRP ≥5 mg/dL (4.03; 1.86–9.81), headache (3.01; 1.75–5.30), thrombocytopenia (2.61; 1.23–6.06), leukopenia (1.88; 1.19–2.98), and temperature ≥39.0 °C (1.66; 1.03–2.68). Conclusions: Brucellosis and rickettsiosis differ demographically and clinically in FUO cases. These findings highlight the importance of distinguishing between the two diseases for early diagnosis and targeted management, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Changes in the Intracellular Composition of Macro and Microminerals After Cryopreservation of the Rabbit Stem/Progenitor Cells
Authors: Vašíček Jaromír , Baláži Andrej , Tirpáková Mária , Tomka Marián , Chrenek Peter
Published: February 2025

Cryopreservation is a widely used method for the long-term preservation of reproductive or somatic cells. It is known that this storage method may negatively affect cell viability, proliferation, differentiation, etc. However, there is a lack of information about whether cryostorage can alter the content of intracellular minerals. Therefore, we focused this study on the analysis of the mineral composition of living cells before and after long-term cold storage. Briefly, three different primary cell lines were established from rabbits as follows: endothelial progenitor cells from peripheral blood (EPCs), endothelial progenitor cells from bone marrow (BEPCs), and mesenchymal stem cells from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), which were cultured until passage 3 prior to cryopreservation in liquid nitrogen. Samples from freshly cultured and frozen–thawed cells were mineralized and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectroscopy (ICP-OES) for the content of minerals (macro: Ca, Na, K, and Mg, and micro: Zn, Fe, Cu, Al, Co, Mn, Sr, and Ni). After cryopreservation, we found significantly decreased content of K in frozen–thawed EPCs (p < 0.01) and BEPCs (p < 0.0001) and Ca in AT-MSCs (p < 0.05), while Na was increased in frozen–thawed BEPCs (p < 0.05). Concentrations of Fe and Al were reduced significantly in frozen–thawed EPCs (both p < 0.0001) and AT-MSCs (p < 0.001 and p < 0.0001, respectively). On the contrary, Fe and Al were elevated in frozen–thawed BEPCs (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.01, respectively) together with Ni (p < 0.0001). In addition, decreased Zn (p < 0.05) was observed in cryopreserved AT-MSCs. In conclusion, the ICP-OES technique might be used to analyze the basic elemental composition of animal cells in fresh or frozen–thawed conditions. Nevertheless, additional studies are needed to reveal the possible impact of cryopreservation on cell fate by changing the content of intracellular minerals.
A Deep Semantic Segmentation Approach to Accurately Detect Seam Gap in Fixtured Workpiece Laser Welding
Authors: Basamakis Fotios Panagiotis , Dimosthenopoulos Dimosthenis , Bavelos Angelos Christos , Michalos George , Makris Sotiris
Published: February 2025

The recent technological advancements in today’s manufacturing industry have extended the quality control operations for welding processes. However, the realm of pre-welding inspection, which significantly influences the quality of the final products, remains relatively uncharted. To this end, this study proposes an innovative vision system designed to extract the seam gap width and centre between two components before welding and make informed decisions regarding the initiation of the welding process. The system incorporates a deep learning semantic segmentation network for identifying and isolating the desired gap area within an acquired image from the vision sensor. Then, additional processing is performed, with conventional computer vision techniques and fundamental Euclidean geometry operations for acquiring the desired width and the centre of that area with a precision of 0.1 mm. Additionally, a control graphical interface has been implemented that allows the operator to initiate and monitor the entire inspection procedure. The overall framework is applied and tested on a manufacturing case study involving the laser welding operations of sheet metal parts, and although it is designed to handle gaps of different shapes and sizes, it is mainly focused on obtaining the characteristics of butt weld gaps.
Optimizing Berth Allocation for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASSs) in the Context of Mixed Operation Scenarios
Authors: Shen Lixin , Shu Xueting , Li Chengcheng , Kramberger Tomaž , Li Xiaoguang , Jiang Lixin
Published: February 2025

This study deals with berth allocation for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASSs) in the context of the mixed operation of MASSs and manned vessels from the perspective of port-shipping companies’ collaboration. Two berth allocation strategies, namely the separated-type and the mixed-type, are proposed in this article. Two mixed integer nonlinear programming models aimed at minimizing the total docking cost of the vessels in the port and the waiting time for berths are developed and solved using Gurobi, respectively. A large-scale simulation of the mixed-type berth allocation model is carried out using an improved simulated annealing algorithm. Several experiments are conducted to test the effectiveness of the model and to draw insights for commercializing autonomous vessels. The presented results show that multi-objective modeling and optimization should be conducted from the collaboration of port-shipping companies, which is more efficient from the perspective of shipping companies or ports, respectively. When berth resources are limited or there is a high requirement for operational safety, the separated-type berth allocation strategy is more efficient. When the number of MASS-dedicated berths reaches a certain proportion, the total docking cost of the vessel no longer changes, indicating that more dedicated berths are not better.
Adapting the Extended Solow Model: The Impact of Output Determinants on Economic Growth in Peru from 2000 to 2022
Authors: Paredes-Soria Alejandro , Paredes-Egúsquiza Alejandro , Villagómez-Chinchay Juan , De Velazco Borda Jorge , Chávez-Díaz Jorge
Published: February 2025

The present study seeks to analyze the impact of the externalities of investments in infrastructure on economic growth in Peru during the period 2000–2022. The methodology used is quantitative, with a non-experimental and longitudinal design, based on the Solow model, using VAR and VEC to analyze the relationship between investment in infrastructure and economic growth in Peru (2000–2022). The results indicate that the coefficient of variation in private income and the labor force is significantly and positively explained by GDP with an adjusted R2 of 0.94 that explains the variability of the model. It was found that investments in infrastructure and labor have a positive and significant impact on GDP. It is concluded that investments in infrastructure, especially private ones, have had a positive and significant impact on the economic growth of Peru during the period 2000–2022. These investments have acted as a key driver for the recovery and increase in GDP and thus the reduction in unemployment, while externalities, such as improvements in connectivity and productivity, have been fundamental for strengthening long-term economic development.
Navigating Flooding Challenges in Historical Urban Contexts: Integrating Nature-Based Solutions with Spatial Multi-Criteria Assessments in Quanzhou
Authors: Wang Mo , Zhao Jiayu , Su Jin , Ikram Rana Muhammad Adnan , Yang Manling
Published: February 2025

Urban flooding presents acute challenges in heritage cities, where dense populations and valuable cultural assets coexist. While Nature-Based Solutions (NbSs) have been widely studied, their implementation in heritage cities remains underexplored due to spatial constraints and cultural sensitivities. This study develops a quantitative evaluative framework integrating the Spatial Multi-Criteria Evaluation (SMCE) and NbSs to address urban flooding in Quanzhou, a UNESCO World Heritage site. In GIS-based spatial analysis, the framework prioritizes high-risk zones by synthesizing hydrological and socio-economic factors. The analysis reveals that the Surface Runoff Coefficient (SRC) contributes 30% to urban flooding exposure, with high building congestion and elevated PM2.5 levels exacerbating risks by 17% and 16.8%, respectively. Vulnerability mapping underscores the critical role of cultural heritage, accounting for 71.1% of the vulnerability index, and highlights priority townships such as Linjiang, Kaiyuan, and Lizhong, with integrated exposure and vulnerability rates of 11.8%, 10.3%, and 9.5%, respectively. This study proposes four NbS models tailored to heritage urban landscapes, with Solution I—direct surface infiltration—identified as the most applicable, covering 170.9 ha, followed by Solution II—subterranean stormwater infiltration—at 52.3 ha. Despite limited spatial feasibility (1.3–33.5% of township areas), the framework demonstrates significant potential for integrating NbSs with existing grey infrastructure, contributing to flood risk mitigation and broader sustainability goals. The findings provide actionable insights for urban planners and policymakers, offering a replicable methodology for the deployment of NbSs in heritage-rich urban contexts worldwide. By bridging flood risk management with cultural preservation, this work advances the discourse on resilient and sustainable urban planning.
Muscle, Fat, Bone, and Lungs: Unlocking the Fitness and Health Equation of Firefighters in Porto, Portugal
Authors: Boppre Giorjines , Nunes João Pedro Rocha , Fernandes David Gomes , Carlos Bruno João de Castro Sousa e Ribeiro , Barros João Miguel Neves , de Freitas Aline Teixeira Maia , dos Santos José Augusto Rodrigues , Zacca Rodrigo
Published: February 2025

Background: Firefighters face significant physical demands, necessitating optimal fitness and health monitoring. This study examined the relationships between body composition, bone mineral density, handgrip strength, and pulmonary function in professional firefighters in Porto, Portugal. Methods: Sixty-eight firefighters underwent assessments, including anthropometry, dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DEXA) for body composition and bone density, handgrip dynamometry, and spirometry for lung function. Results: 36.5% of participants were overweight, and 33.3% had obesity (Grade 1). Men exhibited greater muscle mass, bone density, and handgrip strength (48.7 ± 7.8 kg vs. 31.6 ± 3.6 kg) compared to women. Spirometry revealed normal lung function in 95.2% of participants, though 20.6% demonstrated handgrip strength values below the risk threshold, indicating vulnerability to reduced physical fitness and an increased risk of injury. Significant correlations were observed between lean mass and both handgrip strength (ρ = 0.551, p < 0.001) and pulmonary function, including forced vital capacity (ρ = 0.465, p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study underscores the role of body composition, muscle strength, and pulmonary function in firefighters’ health and safety. These findings suggest that these factors are linked to physical fitness and may influence overall health outcomes. Interventions focusing on improving strength and managing body weight could help to reduce health risks and enhance firefighter well-being.
Prediction and Experimental Study of Low-Frequency Acoustic and Vibration Responses for an Aircraft Instrument Compartment Based on the Virtual Material Method
Authors: Song Shaowei , Wang Jun , Liu Chang , Huang Rongze
Published: February 2025

Bolted connections are extensively utilized in aircraft structures, and accurately simulating these connections is a critical factor affecting the precision of vibration and noise response predictions for aircraft. This study focuses on an instrument compartment of a specific aircraft model, employing the virtual material method to simulate the bolted joints within the structure. Parameters for the virtual material layer were obtained through theoretical calculations combined with parameter identification methods, achieving precise modeling of the instrument compartment. By comparing the calculated modes with the experimental modes of the instrument compartment, it was found that the first four modal shapes from both calculation and experiment were completely consistent, with the error in natural frequencies within three percent. Subsequently, acoustic and vibration computations were performed using both the virtual material model and the tied constraint model, with comparisons made against experimental results. The findings indicate that the root mean square (RMS) acceleration response of the virtual material model was 11.23 g, closely matching the experimental value of 10.35 g. Additionally, the total sound pressure level inside the acoustic cavity was 136.98 dB, closely aligning with the experimental value of 135.76 dB. These results demonstrate that the virtual material method offers higher accuracy in structural acoustic and vibration calculations.
The Effects of Lime and Cement Addition on the Compaction and Shear Strength Parameters of Silty Soils
Authors: Gruchot Andrzej , Kamińska Katarzyna , Woś Agnieszka
Published: February 2025

This article presents the results of laboratory tests of compaction parameters and shear strength of silty soils with and without the addition of hydraulic binder in the form of lime and/or cement. The tests were carried out on samples formed with an optimum moisture content and with 0, 3, 5, and 8% hydraulic binder added to the dry mass of the soil. The soil samples were examined after 7 and 14 days of air–water treatment without and with freeze–thaw cycles. It was found that the addition of lime and cement caused changes in the compaction parameters. This effect depended to a large extent on the type of binder, and also on the grain size composition of the tested soil. The tests showed that the shear strength and the parameters describing it, i.e., the angle of internal friction and cohesion, were high and largely depended on the type of binder and the sample treatment method, as well as its duration. The obtained results indicate that the use of hydraulic binders was an effective method of surface stabilization. Improving soil properties based on the addition of a hydraulic binder is a beneficial method for the environment from the viewpoint of sustainable development and reducing CO2 emissions because it does not require the use of, e.g., soil replacement. Using the SHAP algorithm, it was found that normal stress, initial moisture content, and curing time of the samples were the main input features that influenced the shear strength.
Analysis and Prediction of Wear Resistance on Grind-Hardening Layer Considering Different Friction Conditions
Authors: Guo Yu , Liu Minghe , Zhang Yiming
Published: February 2025

The grind-hardening process is capable of generating a martensitic-based hardened layer on the workpiece surface. The production of a hardened layer can significantly improve the application properties of the workpiece. In fact, theoretical research on the wear process of hardened layers is a powerful key to promoting the grind-hardening process, which is the main focus of the current experimental study. For this purpose, the paper carries out the grind-hardening experiment on AISI 1045 steel first by discovering the formation mechanism of the hardened layer. Then, friction and wear experiments are conducted on hardened workpieces to analyze the influence laws of different conditions on the friction coefficient and wear morphology, as well as its profile. On this basis, combined with the Archard wear model, finite element simulations are carried out on the wear process with different friction conditions. The wear depth is effectively predicted. The results show that the wear depth gradually rises with the increase in friction load and frequency. Additionally, considering different friction conditions, the errors between the predictive and experimental values of the wear depth with both average friction coefficient and variable friction coefficient are 4.36–15.22% and 1.57–10.4%, respectively, which validates theoretical research on the wear resistance of the hardened workpiece.
Uniqueness Results of Semilinear Parabolic Equations in Infinite-Dimensional Hilbert Spaces
Authors: Bianca Carlo , Dogbe Christian
Published: February 2025

This paper is devoted to the uniqueness of solutions for a class of nonhomogeneous stationary partial differential equations related to Hamilton–Jacobi-type equations in infinite-dimensional Hilbert spaces. Specifically, the uniqueness of the viscosity solution is established by employing the inf/sup-convolution approach in a separable infinite-dimensional Hilbert space. The proof is based on the Faedo–Galerkin approximate method by assuming the existence of a Hilbert–Schmidt operator and by employing modulus continuity and Lipschitz arguments. The results are of interest regarding the stochastic optimal control problem.
A Novel High-Efficiency Variable Parameter Double Integration ZNN Model for Time-Varying Sylvester Equations
Authors: Peng Zhe , Huang Yun , Xu Hongzhi
Published: February 2025

In this paper, a High-Efficiency Variable Parameter Double Integration Zeroing Neural Network (HEVPDIZNN) model combining variable parameter function and double integration is proposed to solve the time-varying Sylvester matrix equations, using the decreasing function with a large initial value as the variable parameter. This design achieves faster convergence and higher accuracy after stabilization.The use of double integral terms ensures that the model has higher solution accuracy and effectively suppresses constant noise, linear noise, and quadratic noise. The article proves the convergence and robustness of the model through theoretical analysis. In the comparison experiments with the existing models (MNTZNN, NTPVZNN, NSVPZNN, NSRNN, and ADIZNN), it is confirmed that HEVPDIZNN has faster convergence speed, the average error at the time of stabilization is about 10−5 times that of the existing models, and it has a better suppression of the linear noise, quadratic noise, and constant noise.
Uncovering Key Parameters in Perfluorosulfonic Acid (PFSA) Membrane Fuel Cells to Enhance Performance
Authors: Paganin Valdecir A. , Sakita Alan M. P. , Lopes Thiago , Ticianelli Edson A. , Perez Joelma
Published: February 2025

The conversion of chemical energy to electricity in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs) is essential for replacing fossil fuel engines and achieving net-zero CO2 emissions. In the pursuit of more efficient PEMFCs, certain often-overlooked parameters significantly influence cell performance by either weakening the interaction between the catalytic layer (CL) and the membrane or restricting gas access to the CL. This study examines the effects of cell tightening and hot-pressing conditions on three similar-thickness perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) membranes: Aquivion®, Fumapem, and Nafion®. The results reveal that the hot-pressing method employing higher pressure and a lower temperature (125C method) yields lower fuel cell performance compared to the method utilizing a higher temperature and lower pressure (145C method). Furthermore, incorporating cellulose paper as a pressure homogenizer in the MEA preparation setup significantly improved current density by approximately 2.5 times compared to the traditional assembly method. Cyclic voltammetry with Ar-feed in the cathode showed that all prepared MEAs exhibited a similar platinum surface area; however, MEAs pressed at higher temperatures displayed slightly lower hydrogen desorption charge values. The torque applied to the bolts does not show a consistent trend in fuel cell performance, but optimal torque values can enhance PEMFC performance under certain conditions.
Influence of Selective Laser Melting Process and Heat Treatment Parameters on the Corrosion Resistance of 17-4 Precipitation Hardening Stainless Steel
Authors: Kerbout Anas , Tanji Ayoub , Hermawan Hendra , Barka Noureddine
Published: February 2025

Selective laser melting (SLM) is an advanced additive manufacturing technique that enables the fabrication of complex metal components with high precision. However, inadequate parameter optimization can lead to defects that compromise the corrosion resistance of fabricated parts. Therefore, optimizing both SLM and heat treatment parameters is essential for enhancing electrochemical properties. The present work aims to determine the effect of the SLM process and heat treatment parameters on the corrosion resistance of SLM-made 17-4 PH stainless steel. A set of SLM and heat treatment parameters (laser power, scanning speed, aging time, and aging temperature) was determined by employed Taguchi method and a set of cyclic potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance experiments was performed in 3.5 wt% NaCl solution to generate corrosion data. The Taguchi method and statistical analysis of variance reveal the effect of laser power, scanning speed, aging time, and aging temperature on corrosion current density and passive film resistance of the SLM-made 17-4 PH samples. Laser power and aging temperature had the most significant effects, with lower laser power and higher aging temperature leading to decreased corrosion resistance, as indicated by higher corrosion current density and lower passive film resistance. Additionally, this study proposes empirical predictive models to estimate the electrochemical properties of SLM-made 17-4 PH stainless steel.
Metabolism of Tryptophan, Glutamine, and Asparagine in Cancer Immunotherapy—Synergism or Mechanism of Resistance?
Authors: Kiełbowski Kajetan , Bakinowska Estera , Becht Rafał , Pawlik Andrzej
Published: February 2025

Amino acids are crucial components of proteins, key molecules in cellular physiology and homeostasis. However, they are also involved in a variety of other mechanisms, such as energy homeostasis, nitrogen exchange, further synthesis of bioactive compounds, production of nucleotides, or activation of signaling pathways. Moreover, amino acids and their metabolites have immunoregulatory properties, significantly affecting the behavior of immune cells. Immunotherapy is one of the oncological treatment methods that improves cytotoxic properties of one’s own immune system. Thus, enzymes catalyzing amino acid metabolism, together with metabolites themselves, can affect immune antitumor properties and responses to immunotherapy. In this review, we will discuss the involvement of tryptophan, glutamine, and asparagine metabolism in the behavior of immune cells targeted by immunotherapy and summarize results of the most recent investigations on the impact of amino acid metabolites on immunotherapy.
Age-Dependent Pleomorphism in Mycobacterium monacense Cultures
Authors: Ramesh Malavika , Behra Phani Rama Krishna , Pettersson B. M. Fredrik , Dasgupta Santanu , Kirsebom Leif A.
Published: February 2025

Changes in cell shape have been shown to be an integral part of the mycobacterial life cycle; however, systematic investigations into its patterns of pleomorphic behaviour in connection with stages or conditions of growth are scarce. We have studied the complete growth cycle of Mycobacterium monacense cultures, a Non-Tuberculous Mycobacterium (NTM), in solid as well as in liquid media. We provide data showing changes in cell shape from rod to coccoid and occurrence of refractive cells ranging from Phase Grey to phase Bright (PGB) in appearance upon ageing. Changes in cell shape could be correlated to the bi-phasic nature of the growth curves for M. monacense (and the NTM Mycobacterium boenickei) as measured by the absorbance of liquid cultures while growth measured by colony-forming units (CFU) on solid media showed a uniform exponential growth. Based on the complete M. monacense genome we identified genes involved in cell morphology, and analyses of their mRNA levels revealed changes at different stages of growth. One gene, dnaK_3 (encoding a chaperone), showed significantly increased transcript levels in stationary phase cells relative to exponentially growing cells. Based on protein domain architecture, we identified that the DnaK_3 N-terminus domain is an MreB-like homolog. Endogenous overexpression of M. monacense dnaK_3 in M. monacense was unsuccessful (appears to be lethal) while exogenous overexpression in Mycobacterium marinum resulted in morphological changes with an impact on the frequency of appearance of PGB cells. However, the introduction of an anti-sense “gene” targeting the M. marinum dnaK_3 did not show significant effects. Using dnaK_3-lacZ reporter constructs we also provide data suggesting that the morphological differences could be due to differences in the regulation of dnaK_3 in the two species. Together these data suggest that, although its regulation may vary between mycobacterial species, the dnaK_3 might have a direct or indirect role in the processes influencing mycobacterial cell shape.
Study on the Adsorption Characteristics of Methylene Blue by Magnesium-Modified Fly Ash
Authors: Zhou Junxia , Li Mengjie , Tao Yu , Zha Lanchang
Published: February 2025

Aiming at the pollution problem of methylene blue dye wastewater, a new type of methylene blue adsorbent magnesium-modified fly ash (Mg@FA) was prepared by using solid waste fly ash as raw material. The effects of Mg@FA dosage, adsorption time, and methylene blue concentration on the adsorption of methylene blue by Mg@FA and pH values were analyzed. The adsorption characteristics of Mg@FA on methylene blue were investigated by adsorption kinetics, adsorption isotherms, and adsorption thermodynamics, as well as SEM, EDS, XRD, BET, and FTIR. The results showed that when the dosage of Mg@FA was 1.0 g, the adsorption time was 120 min, and the initial concentration of methylene blue was 150 mg/L; the adsorption efficiency of methylene blue by Mg@FA was the highest, which was 95.61%. When the pH of the methylene blue solution was in the range of 7–11, the adsorption efficiency of Mg@FA for methylene blue remained stable at 95.61–98.10%. The adsorption process of methylene blue by Mg@FA follows the second-order kinetic fitting model and Langmuir model. The adsorption of methylene blue by Mg@FA is a spontaneous and endothermic reaction. Mg@FA adsorbs methylene blue through electrostatic interaction and hydrogen bonding. Mg@FA can effectively adsorb methylene blue and promote the waste utilization of fly ash, which provides a promising method for wastewater treatment and fly ash utilization.
Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) in Consumer Products: An Overview of the Occurrence, Migration, and Exposure Assessment
Authors: Yang Yang , Wang Jin , Tang Shali , Qiu Jia , Luo Yan , Yang Chun , Lai Xiaojing , Wang Qian , Cao Hui
Published: February 2025

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been widely used in the production of consumer products globally due to the excellent water and oil resistance and anti-fouling properties. The multiple toxic effects of some PFASs also pose a threat to human health and ecosystem, and the frequent use of certain consumer products increased the risk of human exposure to PFASs. More data on the occurrence, concentration, and migration of PFASs in consumer products is urgently needed to address the possible risks posed by exposure to consumer products. This paper reviews the PFAS concentrations found, the migration characteristics known, and the exposure risks of PFASs arising from several types of consumer products over the last five years. The types of consumer products considered here include food contact materials, textiles, and disposable personal hygiene products. The influence of different factors on the migration process of PFASs from these products are summarized and discussed. Additionally, the main approaches and models of exposure assessment are evaluated and summarized. Current challenges and future research prospects in this field are discussed with a view to providing guidance for the future assessment and regulation of PFASs in consumer products.
The Incorporation of Nanoconfined Poly(ionic liquid)s with Two-Dimensional Covalent Organic Frameworks to Enhance Proton Conduction
Authors: Wang Yonghong , Liang Xiaoxiao , Wang Ming , Wang Jiahui , Gao Yanan , Lu Fei
Published: February 2025

Covalent organic frameworks (COFs) hold promising potential as high-temperature proton conductors due to their highly ordered nanostructures and high specific surface areas. However, due to their limited functional groups and poor membrane-engineering properties, finding practical applications for COF-based proton-conducting materials still remains challenging. Herein, we proposed a universal strategy to fabricate proton-conducting composite membranes by the incorporation of sulfonic acid-bearing COFs and zwitterionic poly(ionic liquid)s (PILs) via in situ polymerization. Zwitterionic PILs with methanesulfonate counter ions can work as the intrinsic proton sources, and the sulfonic acid groups on the COF nanochannels can act as the extrinsic proton suppliers. Benefiting from the spatial nanoconfinement of long-range ordered nanochannels and the enhanced electrostatic interactions with PILs, the COFs with high densities of sulfonic acid groups can endow the as-prepared composite membrane (PIL@TpBD(SO3H)2) with a comparable anhydrous proton conductivity of 3.20 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 90 °C, which is much higher than that of conventional Nafion (~10−5 S cm−1 at 90 °C under anhydrous condition). 1H NMR DOSY spectra reveal that both the diffusion and dissociation of protons can be drastically facilitated upon nanoconfinement, demonstrating the promising efficiency of nanochannels in proton conduction. Moreover, the obtained composite membranes possess outstanding mechanical and thermal stability, which is crucial for their practical application. This study demonstrates proton conduction elevation in nanoconfined PILs and provides a promising insight into the engineering of stable COF-based proton-conducting materials.
Dipolar Copper(I) Complexes: A Novel Appealing Class of Highly Active Second-Order NLO-Phores
Authors: Colombo Alessia , Dragonetti Claudia , Fagnani Francesco , Roberto Dominique , Fantacci Simona
Published: February 2025

The second-order nonlinear optical (NLO) properties of the known heteroleptic complex [Cu(1,10-phenanthroline)xantphos][PF6] (complex 1) and the related new complexes [Cu(5-NO2-1,10-phenanthroline)xantphos][PF6] and [Cu(5-NO2-1,10-phenanthroline)(dppe)][PF6] (dppe = 1,2-bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane) (complexes 2 and 3) were investigated in solution by the EFISH (Electric Field-Induced Second Harmonic generation) technique, working at a non-resonant wavelength of 1907 nm. It turned out that they are characterized by large μβ values (957–1100 × 10−48 esu), much higher than that of the Disperse Red One benchmark. Unexpectedly, the homoleptic complex [Cu(2-mesityl-1,10-phenanthroline)2][PF6] (complex 4) shows a similar high second-order NLO response. Quantum chemical calculations based on Density Functional Theory (DFT) methods have been carried out to give insight into the electronic structure of the investigated complexes in relation to NLO properties. This investigation, which represents the first EFISH study on copper(I) complexes, opens a convenient route for the development of low-cost dipolar NLO-active heteroleptic [Cu(P^P)(N^N)][PF6] and homoleptic [Cu(N^N)2][PF6] complexes.
Carboxymethyl Cellulose Surface Modification Alleviates the Toxicity of Fe-MOFs to Rice and Improves Iron Absorption
Authors: Li Yuanbo , Tang Yuying , Ding Yanru , Lyu Yaping , Su Wenhao , Nadeem Muhammad , Zhang Peng , Rui Yukui
Published: February 2025

Iron-based metal–organic frameworks (Fe-MOFs) are widely used for agricultural chemical delivery due to their high loading capacity, and they also have the potential to provide essential iron for plant growth. Therefore, they hold significant promise for agricultural applications. Evaluating the plant biotoxicity of Fe-MOFs is crucial for optimizing their use in agriculture. In this study, we used the natural biomacromolecule carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) to encapsulate the Fe-MOF NH2-MIL-101 (Fe) (MIL). Through hydroponic experiments, we investigated the biotoxic effects of Fe-MOFs on rice before and after CMC modification. The results show that the accumulation of iron in rice is dependent on the dose and the exposure concentration of Fe-MOFs. CMC modification (MIL@CMC) can reduce the release rate of Fe ions from Fe-MOFs in aqueous solutions with different pH values (5 and 7). Furthermore, MIL@CMC treatment significantly increases the absorption of iron by both the aboveground and root parts of rice. MIL@CMC significantly alleviated the growth inhibition of rice seedlings and increased the aboveground biomass of rice under medium- to high-exposure conditions. Specifically, in rice roots, MIL induced a more intense oxidative stress response, with significant increases in the activities of related antioxidant enzymes (CAT, POD, and SOD) and MDA content. Our results demonstrated that the encapsulation of NH2-MIL-101(Fe) using CMC effectively alleviated oxidative damage and promoted the uptake and growth of iron in rice. These findings suggest that rational modification can have a positive effect on reducing the potential phytotoxicity of MOFs and improving their biosafety in agricultural applications.
The Impact of a Lacto-Ovo Vegetarian Diet on Post-Operative Recovery and Wound Healing Following Mandibular Third Molar Extraction—A Prospective Study
Authors: Baranowska Alicja , Pitułaj Artur , Makar Michał , Kowalewski Konrad , Dominiak Sebastian , Kubasiewicz-Ross Paweł
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Despite the increasing popularity of lacto-ovo vegetarian (LOV) diets, their impact on oral wound healing remains underexplored. The aim of this study was to evaluate the potential influence of the LOV diet on soft tissue healing following lower wisdom tooth operation. Methods: This prospective study involved 40 participants equally divided into two groups: the LOV group (lacto-ovo vegetarians for at least seven years) and the control group (general diet). The main inclusion criterion was the need for third molar extraction, while smoking, pregnancy, and systemic diseases that may compromise wound healing were disqualifying factors. Parameters such as wound length, swelling, pain, analgesic use, and bacterial plaque index were assessed on the 3rd and 7th days post-surgery. Results: LOV participants exhibited significantly faster wound healing, with reduced wound length and swelling by the 7th day compared to the control group. Pain levels and analgesic consumption were also lower in the LOV group at the end of the observation period. Although the LOV group had higher trismus on the 3rd day, it normalized by the 7th day. These outcomes may be, apart of the diet type followed, partially attributed to the younger age and shorter surgical time observed in the LOV group. Conclusions: The findings highlight the potential role of dietary interventions in optimizing recovery, warranting further research to confirm these benefits in broader populations.
Much More than Nutrients: The Protective Effects of Nutraceuticals on the Blood–Brain Barrier in Diseases
Authors: Kocsis Anna E. , Kucsápszky Nóra , Santa-Maria Ana Raquel , Hunyadi Attila , Deli Mária A. , Walter Fruzsina R.
Published: February 2025

The dysfunction of the blood–brain barrier (BBB) is well described in several diseases, and is considered a pathological factor in many neurological disorders. This review summarizes the most important groups of natural compounds, including alkaloids, flavonoids, anthocyanidines, carotenoids, lipids, and vitamins that were investigated for their potential protective effects on brain endothelium. The brain penetration of these compounds and their interaction with BBB efflux transporters and solute carriers are discussed. The cerebrovascular endothelium is considered a therapeutic target for natural compounds in diseases. In preclinical studies modeling systemic and central nervous system diseases, nutraceuticals exerted beneficial effects on the BBB. In vivo, they decreased BBB permeability, brain edema, astrocyte swelling, and morphological changes in the vessel structure and basal lamina. At the level of brain endothelial cells, nutraceuticals increased cell survival and decreased apoptosis. From the general endothelial functions, decreased angiogenesis and increased levels of vasodilating agents were demonstrated. From the BBB functions, elevated barrier integrity by tightened intercellular junctions, and increased expression and activity of BBB transporters, such as efflux pumps, solute carriers, and metabolic enzymes, were shown. Nutraceuticals enhanced the antioxidative defense and exerted anti-inflammatory effects at the BBB. The most important signaling changes mediating the increased cell survival and BBB stability were the activation of the WNT, PI3K-AKT, and NRF2 pathways, and inhibition of the MAPK, JNK, ERK, and NF-κB pathways. Nutraceuticals represent a valuable source of new potentially therapeutic molecules to treat brain diseases by protecting the BBB.
Factors Influencing Energy Drink Usage Amongst Pupils in the Mahikeng Sub-District, Northwest
Authors: Thini Karabo Dina , Mokwena Kebogile Elizabeth , Malebatja Mohora Feida
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The high consumption rate of energy drinks among pupils is a serious public health concern in various countries, including South Africa. Excessive consumption of energy drinks that contain elevated caffeine and sugar levels has the potential to lead to the development of addictions, strokes, dehydration, sleeping disorders, mental health and central nervous disorders, hypertension, digestive problems, and anxiety. Most pupils regard energy drinks as regular soft drinks and lack knowledge of the active ingredients contained in energy drinks and their side effects. The objective of this study was to investigate factors influencing energy drink usage amongst pupils in the Mahikeng sub-district, Northwest Province. Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional survey was conducted amongst 505 pupils in the Mahikeng sub-district, Northwest, using self-administered questionnaires. Data were analysed using STATA software version 18 to examine associations between variables. Results: The energy drinks consumed most by pupils were Dragon (38.21%), Switch (28.97%), and Red Bull (14.62%). Factors and reasons influencing energy drink usage among pupils include all-night parties (3.1%), concentration (20.3%), being awake (43.1%), curiosity (2.2%), energy levels (23.1%), exams (13.8%), sports (8.7%), fatigue (6.9%), and health (2.3%). There was a strong association (p ≤ 0.05) between energy drink usage and sports activities amongst pupils. Conclusions: It is concluded that health education and promotion intervention programmes are required to educate pupils about the dangers of energy drink usage to prevent public health risks. Further studies, including research on primary school pupils, are necessary, considering that a substantial number of pupils were exposed to energy drinks at an early age.
Risk of Environmental Contamination by Gastrointestinal Parasites in Public Areas of the Central Plateau Microregion of Brazil: A Public Health Concern
Authors: Martins Ana Julia de Almeida , Rocha Alice Caroline da Silva , Assis-Silva Zara Mariana de , Maia Guilherme Oliveira , Alves-Ribeiro Bruna Samara , Duarte Raiany Borges , Moraes Iago de Sá , Urzedo Nicoly Ferreira de , Fernandes-Silva Lizandra , Gomes Ana Paula Carvalho , Felizarda Samara Moreira , Oliveira Mayra Parreira , Saturnino Klaus Casaro , Rezende Hanstter Hallison Alves , Rodrigues Rosângela Maria , Ramos Dirceu Guilherme de Souza , Braga Ísis Assis
Published: February 2025

The risk of zoonotic parasitic infections is closely linked to direct and indirect interactions between animals and humans. The mutual coexistence of species in public spaces predisposes individuals to gastrointestinal parasitosis owing to various social and hygienic-sanitary factors. This study aimed to assess the risk of environmental contamination by gastrointestinal parasites in fecal samples collected from parks and public squares in 18 municipalities located in a microregion of the central plateau of Brazil, correlating the collection with the population size of each municipality. We collected 536 soil fecal samples from 117 randomly selected public areas across a 56,111.874 km2 region. Eggs, cysts, and oocysts were detected using the Willis flotation technique and the Hoffman’s spontaneous sedimentation method. The Hoffman’s analysis revealed that 70.3% of the fecal samples were infected across 91.5% of the sampled areas. Identified parasites included the members of the family Ancylostomatidae (56.5%), Toxocara spp. (6.2%), Trichuris spp. (1.7%), Strongyloides spp. (0.2%), Dipylidium caninum (25.8%), Spirometra spp. (0.4%), Taeniidae (0.2%), Platynosomum fastosum (0.6%), Trematoda (0.2%), Giardia spp. (3.2%), Cystoisospora spp. (5.6%), Sarcocystis spp. (0.2%), and Entamoeba spp. (2.4%). The presence of positive fecal samples in public areas and municipalities correlated with populations of up to 10,000 inhabitants (p = 0.023). Areas contaminated with feces were 63.4% more likely to contain parasites than other areas (odds ratio 1.6336). Favorable environmental factors combined with inadequate sanitary management contribute to a high risk of environmental contamination, representing a significant zoonotic potential and highlighting the need for improved public health policies and preventive measures.
Molecular Detection of Anaplasma marginale in Amblyomma mixtum Infesting Cattle in the Major Livestock-Producing States of Mexico
Authors: Cárdenas-Amaya Carolina , Romero-Salas Dora , Rafael Marta , Chaparro-Gutiérrez Jenny J. , López-Osorio Sara , Aguilar-Domínguez Mariel , Alonso-Díaz Miguel Á. , Pérez de León Adalberto Á. , de la Fuente José
Published: February 2025

Bovine anaplasmosis is a tick-borne disease caused by Anaplasma marginale, although mechanical transmission by biting flies also occurs. Infection with A. marginale can reach 26% mortality and morbidity is associated with reduced beef and milk production, causing economic losses for livestock producers. Between March 2022 and July 2023, 1920 ticks were collected from 52 cattle production units in major cattle-producing states in Mexico, including Chiapas, Jalisco, Michoacán, Tabasco, and Veracruz. Of all the ticks collected, 35.57% were morphologically identified as Amblyomma mixtum. Samples of A. mixtum from each state, totaling 271, were tested for A. marginale via polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A. marginale was detected molecularly in 15.3% of A. mixtum samples. A. mixtum from Chiapas had the highest prevalence of A. marginale (24.0%), followed by Tabasco and Veracruz (20.0% each), Jalisco (15.2%), and Michoacán (6.6%). Phylogenetic analysis supported the morphological identification of A. mixtum and confirmed the genetic identity of A. marginale. This research is the first report on the molecular detection of A. marginale in A. mixtum ticks in Mexico. Results suggest that this 3-host tick species might be a potential vector. A. mixtum is Mexico’s second most economically significant tick feeding on cattle after Rhipicephalus microplus. This information about A. marginale prevalence in A. mixtum expands our understanding of bovine anaplasmosis epidemiology in Mexico. Further research is needed to assess the role of A. mixtum as a vector of A. marginale.