bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Epidemiology of Periprosthetic Fractures After Cementless Revision Total Hip Arthroplasty with Tapered, Fluted Stems at a Mid- to Long-Term Follow-Up
Authors: Bischel Oliver E. , Jung Matthias K. , Suda Arnold J. , Seeger Jörn B. , Böhm Paul M.
Published: February 2025

Background: Although tapered and fluted stems are frequently used in revision total hip arthroplasty (RTHA), major complications following the implantation of these implants, like periprosthetic fractures, are less investigated. As epidemiological data do not exist yet, the incidence of PPF in a mid- to long-term follow-up is unknown and potential risk factors have not been detected. Methods: Propensity score matching (PSA) of two retrospectively investigated cohorts after femoral RTHA with either modular (n = 130) or monobloc prosthesis (n = 129) was executed. A total of 186 cases, including 93 of each device, were finally analyzed during a mean follow-up period of 9.1 (0.5–23.1) years. The time-dependent risk of PPF was calculated using a Kaplan–Meier analysis. Results: The cumulative risk for PPF of the whole cohort was 5.7% (95% CI: 1.7–9.8%) at 23.1 years, for the modular device, 13.0% (95% CI: 0–26.0%) after 13.7 years and the monobloc stem, 3.4% (95% CI: 0–7.1%) after 23.1 years, without a significant difference between the two designs (log-rank p = 0.1922). All eight fractures occurred in women and there was one collapse of the fracture after open reduction and internal fixation. The cumulative risk was 10.1% (95% CI: 3.1–17.1%) at 23.1 years compared to 0% after 21.4 years in men (log-rank p = 0.0117). Diabetes was significantly associated with the presence of PPF during follow-up (non-diabetic, 4.4% (95% CI: 0–8.2%) after 21.3 years vs. diabetic, 16.6% (96% CI: 0–34.5%) after 13.3 years; log-rank p = 0.0066). Longer reconstructions showed also a significantly higher fracture risk (equal or longer than median implant length vs. shorter; 10.5% (95% CI: 3.1–17.1%) after 21.4 years vs. 1.0% (95% CI: 0–3.1%) after 23.1 years; log-rank p = 0.0276) but did not correlate with a preoperative defect situation. Conclusions: The cumulative risk for PPF after femoral revision with tapered and fluted devices is a relevant failure reason in this mid- to long-term investigation. There was no difference between the monobloc stem or modular implant. Women and diabetics are at risk, and the choice of a longer implant than necessary is neither prophylactical for PPF nor useful in the case of the operative treatment of a PPF after femoral RTHA with these revision devices.
Evaluation of Changes in Clinicopathological Features and Prognosis in Patients with Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Doğan Özlem , Ahmed Melin Aydan , Ekinci Ömer Burak , Yıldız Anıl , Dogan Izzet
Published: February 2025

Background: In this study, we evaluated the changes in clinicopathological features and prognosis in patients with thyroid cancer in the last two decades using the Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results Database (SEER) data. Methods: Data from the SEER-12 registry (1992–2021) were analyzed, focusing on patients diagnosed with malignant thyroid cancer between 2001 and 2020. The study population was divided into Cohort 1 (2001–2010) and Cohort 2 (2011–2020). Cohorts 1 and 2 were compared regarding clinicopathological features and prognosis. Results: The study included 94,892 patients diagnosed with thyroid cancer between 2001 and 2020, with 39,265 patients in Cohort 1 and 55,627 in Cohort 2. Compared to Cohort 1, in Cohort 2 showed a statistically significant increase in the proportion of patients aged 60+ (+4.2%), male patients (+2.1%), and cases of papillary cancer (+5.3%) and regional disease (+3.7%) (all p < 0.001). Although Cohort 2 demonstrated an 8% improvement in survival compared to Cohort 1, this result was not statistically significant (p = 0.057). Prognostic factors were identified, such as disease stage at diagnosis, age, gender, and origin. Among pathological subtypes, the patients with papillary + FV had the best prognosis (HR: 0.78), compared to patients in the other group, mainly comprising anaplastic tumors and sarcomas, which had the worst prognosis (HR: 9.61). Conclusions: In this large-scale study of thyroid cancer patients, we found significant differences between the two cohorts. In Cohort 2, the proportion of patients aged ≥60 years, male, and with papillary thyroid cancer was increased. We found that age, sex, origin, histopathological subtype, and stage at diagnosis were prognostic factors in patients with thyroid cancer. Also, we observed a trend toward improved survival in Cohort 2.
Atherosclerosis and Chronic Apical Periodontitis: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: León-López María , Cabanillas-Balsera Daniel , Martín-González Jenifer , Sánchez-Domínguez Benito , Saúco-Márquez Juan J. , Segura-Egea Juan J.
Published: February 2025

Background: Atherosclerosis is a chronic and progressive condition of the arteries, characterized by the thickening and hardening of their walls due to the formation of atherosclerotic plaques. Low-grade inflammation is implicated in the pathogeny of atherosclerosis. Chronic apical periodontitis (CAP), the chronic inflammation around the root apex of infected teeth, is associated with a low-grade inflammatory state, and thus a connection between atherosclerosis and CAP has been suggested. The aim of this study was to conduct a systematic review with meta-analysis to answer the following PICO question: In adult patients, does the presence or absence of atherosclerosis affect the prevalence of CAP? Methods: The PRISMA guidelines were followed to carry out this systematic review, which was registered in PROSPERO (651359). A bibliographic search was performed in PubMed-MEDLINE, Embase, and Scielo. The inclusion criteria selected studies presenting data on the prevalence of CAP in patients diagnosed with atherosclerosis and control patients. The statistical analysis was carried out using RevMan software v.5.4. The study characteristics and risk ratios with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed. Risk of bias was assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa scale, which was adapted for cross-sectional studies. To estimate variance and heterogeneity between trials, the Higgins I2 test was used. The quality of the evidence was evaluated using GRADE. Results: The search strategy recovered 102 articles, and only five met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis showed an overall OR = 2.94 (95% CI = 1.83–4.74; p < 0.01) for the prevalence of CAP among patients with atherosclerosis. The overall risk of bias was moderate. The quality of the evidence showed a low level of certainty. Conclusions: Patients with atherosclerosis are almost three times more likely to have CAP. This finding supports the hypothesis that chronic inflammatory processes in the oral cavity could significantly impact cardiovascular health, emphasizing the importance of an integrated approach to oral and systemic health care. This result should be translated to daily clinical practice, and the healthcare community should be aware of this association and suspect atherosclerotic pathology in patients who show a high prevalence of CAP. Likewise, patients with atherosclerosis should be monitored in the dental clinic for CAP.
Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Hand Surgery Volume in Japan
Authors: Yoneda Hidemasa , Curley James , Iwatsuki Katsuyuki , Saeki Masaomi , Takahashi Nobunori , Yamamoto Michiro
Published: February 2025

Objectives: The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on hand surgery in Japan has not been fully elucidated. This study investigated changes in the volume of hand surgery practiced during the pandemic. Methods: We used the National Database Open Data Japan (NDB-ODJ), a comprehensive repository of healthcare data administered by the government, to investigate changes in the volume of hand surgery services delivered during the COVID-19 pandemic. The type and number of upper extremity surgical procedures was examined during each month of the pandemic to identify associations. Results: During the first wave in the spring of 2020, scheduled surgeries decreased by 44% compared to pre-pandemic levels, with arthroplasties, osteotomies, and polydactyly surgeries experiencing the largest reductions. Trauma surgeries remained relatively stable, and some procedures like tendon repair and replantation even increased. While overall surgical volumes recovered in the second half of the pandemic, certain procedures, including finger pinning and tendon repair, remained below pre-pandemic levels. Interestingly, surgeries for Dupuytren contracture and amputation increased compared with the pre-pandemic period. Many scheduled and emergency procedures shifted to outpatient surgeries during the pandemic, and the proportion of inpatient surgeries decreased. In particular, the proportion of outpatient surgeries increased significantly in open reduction and internal fixation for wrist and forearm fractures, as well as in amputation surgeries. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic had a minimal impact on the volume of hand surgery conducted in Japan, with a decrease in elective surgeries only during the first wave in the spring of 2020. Notably, the pandemic triggered a shift from inpatient to outpatient surgery for many procedures.
Machine Learning Models for the Prediction of Wind Loads on Containerships
Authors: Degiuli Nastia , Grlj Carlo Giorgio , Martić Ivana , Šegota Sandi Baressi , Anđelić Nikola , Majnarić Darin
Published: February 2025

As the windage area of containerships increases, wind loads are becoming a more significant factor in navigating ships at open sea. This can lead to increased resistance and affect ship stability, maneuverability, and fuel efficiency. In this study, machine learning models based on the multilayer perceptron and gradient-boosted tree methods were employed to predict wind load coefficients for containerships with various container configurations. Six models were developed to estimate longitudinal and transverse wind loads and moment coefficients using a comprehensive dataset generated by numerical simulations. Numerical simulations were conducted for two containerships with various container configurations at angles of attack ranging from 0° to 180°. The models showed satisfactory performance on an evaluation set, with high coefficients of determination. The models based on the gradient-boosted tree method slightly outperformed those based on the multilayer perceptron method, particularly in terms of mean absolute error. The study demonstrates that accurate prediction of wind load coefficients is feasible, making these models a reliable tool for practical engineering applications.
A Hierarchical and Self-Evolving Digital Twin (HSE-DT) Method for Multi-Faceted Battery Situation Awareness Realisation
Authors: Zhao Kai , Liu Ying , Zhou Yue , Ming Wenlong , Wu Jianzhong
Published: February 2025

Accurate battery state estimation is important for the operation of energy storage systems, yet existing methods struggle with the complexity and dynamic nature of battery conditions. Conventional techniques often fail to extract relevant spatial and temporal features from basic battery data effectively, leading to insufficient situational awareness in battery management systems. To address this gap, we propose a Hierarchical and Self-Evolving Digital Twin (HSE-DT) method that enhances battery state estimation by coordinating multiple estimation techniques in a hierarchical framework and enabling adaptive updating through transfer learning. The model integrates a Transformer–Convolutional Neural Network (Transformer-CNN) architecture to process historical and real-time data, capturing dynamic state variations with high precision. Simulations indicate that the values of root mean square error (RMSE) for state of charge (SOC) and state of health (SOH) are lower compared to other algorithms, being less than 0.9% and 0.8%, respectively. Its hierarchical structure allows the integration of different estimation models, and the self-evolving method allows the method to adapt to changes in different operating conditions. The experimental results show that the method can estimate the battery state with high accuracy and stability, thus enhancing multi-faceted situational awareness.
Evaluated Utilization of Middle–Heavy REE Resources in Bayan Obo Deposit: Insight from Geochemical Composition and Process Mineralogy
Authors: Jin Hailong , Sun Qing , Chen Biao , Wei Wei , Liu Yanjiang , Li Qiang
Published: February 2025

The Bayan Obo is the largest carbonatite-type rare earth deposit in the world. It not only has a large amount of light rare earth element (LREE) resources but also hosts approximately 9 million tons of medium and heavy rare earth element (M+HREE) resources. However, the M+HREE resources have not received enough attention, which hinders their further utilization. In this study, we conduct a systematic investigation of the distribution and process mineralogy properties of M+HREE in different types of ores in the Bayan Obo deposit. The high-value area (>0.1%) of M+HREE elements is found concentrated in the central and deeper parts of the Main and East orebodies. The content of M+HREE varies among different types of ores, with the Aegirine type (1005 ppm) and Fluorite type (1204 ppm) showing a higher average M+HREE concentration. The minerals rich in M+HREE include bastnäsite, monazite, Ca-fluorocarbonate, Ba-fluorocarbonate, allanite, aeschynite, and fergusonite, each with concentrations exceeding 4000 ppm. Aeschynite and fergusonite, in particular, exhibit high M+HREE concentrations and are enriched in fluorite-type and aegirine-type ores. Analysis of the mixed raw ores from the production line at the concentrating plant reveals an M+HREE concentration of approximately 0.2% and a concentration of the seven target minerals at around 12%. However, the particle size distribution and monomer dissociation degree are limited to below 22.3 µm and 40%, respectively. Based on these integrated analyses, we propose that the fluorite-type and aegirine-type ores within the Main and East open-pits are potential M+HREE targets. Furthermore, the recycling and utilization of M+HREE resources in the Bayan Obo deposit require a well-structured process flow and the selection of advanced processing equipment in the future.
X-Ray Diffraction Assessment of Expanding Minerals in a Semi-Arid Environment
Authors: Dafalla Muawia , Al-Mahbashi Ahmed M. , Al-Shamrani Mosleh
Published: February 2025

In semi-arid areas, light buildings, highways, and pavements are frequently damaged by the subsurface swelling or shrinkage of expansive soils during both wetting and drying cycles. The goal of this research is to explore the X-ray diffraction of natural clay with bentonite additives in order to determine the amount of expanding minerals in the clay based on changes in the diffractometer profile and diffraction intensity. Mineralogical studies are crucial for determining the geotechnical behavior of these soils. Five semi-arid areas were chosen to explore the key minerals that influence geotechnical behavior. The various geological backgrounds were reflected in differing expansivities, and X-ray diffraction revealed considerable mineralogy differences between the five zones under consideration. Non-sharp peaks rose above background intensities in zones containing smectite clay minerals. Significant expanding minerals produced distinct peaks in the clays. Adding 10, 20, 30, and 40% commercial bentonite changed the peak size and area beneath the peak. Overlapping intensities in clay minerals can affect the intensity of peaks in lower 2θ ranges. This was discovered to influence the method of quantification and can be improved by the usage of heating or glycolation processes. The diffraction profile for each examined area is supplied, along with an identification of expansion minerals. The methodology is provided for estimating clay minerals in areas with similar geological origins. Qatif clays were discovered to be the most expansive with estimated expanded mineral concentrations ranging from 23.9 to 34.7%. The remaining four clays had mineral concentrations ranging from 4.4 to 20%. Two proposed semi-quantitative methods are investigated. The peak intensity method produced better results than the area under the peak method.
The Biflavonoid Agathisflavone Regulates Microglial and Astrocytic Inflammatory Profiles via Glucocorticoid Receptor
Authors: Almeida Áurea Maria Alves Nunes , Santos Cleonice Creusa dos , Takahashi Daniele , da Silva Larissa Pereira , de Sousa Verônica Moreira , de Santana Monique Reis , Del Arco Ana Elisa , dos Santos Balbino Lino , David Jorge Mauricio , da Silva Victor Diogenes Amaral , Braga-de-Souza Suzana , Costa Silvia Lima
Published: February 2025

Nuclear receptors such as glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) are transcription factors with prominent regulatory effects on neuroinflammation. Agathisflavone is a biflavonoid that demonstrates neurogenic, neuroprotective, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and pro-myelinogenic effects in vitro. This study investigated whether the control of glial reactivity by agathisflavone is mediated by GRs. Primary cultures of astrocytes and microglia were induced to neuroinflammation by lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and exposed to agathisflavone or not in the presence or absence of mifepristone, a GR antagonist. The microglia morphology and reactivity were evaluated by immunofluorescence against calcium-binding ionized adapter (Iba-1) and CD68. The astrocyte morphology and reactivity were evaluated by immunofluorescence against glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP). The inflammatory profile was evaluated by RT-qPCR. Molecular docking was performed to characterize agathisflavone and GR interactions. Microglial branching was increased in response to agathisflavone, an effect that was inhibited by mifepristone. CD68 and GFAP expression was decreased by agathisflavone but not in the presence of mifepristone. Agathisflavone decreased the expression of the pro-inflammatory cytokine IL-1β and increased the expression of the regulatory cytokine IL-10. The increase in IL-10 mRNA was inhibited by the GR antagonist. The in silico analysis showed that agathisflavone binds to a pocket at the glucocorticoid receptor. These interactions were stronger than mifepristone, dexamethasone, and the agathisflavone monomer apigenin. These results indicate that the GR is involved in the regulatory effects of agathisflavone on microglia and astrocyte inflammation, contributing to the elucidation of the molecular mechanisms of agathisflavone’s effects in the nervous system.
The Effectiveness of Liquid-Phase Microextraction of Beta-Blockers from Aqueous Matrices for Their Analysis by Chromatographic Techniques
Authors: Beldean-Galea Mihail Simion , Herghelegiu Mihaela-Cătălina , Pănescu Vlad-Alexandru , Vial Jérôme , Bruzzoniti Maria Concetta , Coman Maria-Virginia
Published: February 2025

Beta-blockers are pharmaceuticals used to treat cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension, angina pectoris, and arrhythmia. Due to high consumption, they are continuously released into the environment, being detected in many aqueous matrices. The aim of this research is to test the effectiveness of two green liquid-phase microextraction procedures, such as dispersive liquid–liquid microextraction (DLLME) and solidification of floating organic droplet microextraction (SFOME) for the selective extraction of eight beta-blockers (atenolol, nadolol, pindolol, acebutolol, metoprolol, bisoprolol, propranolol, and betaxolol) from aqueous matrices for their analysis by gas chromatography (GC) or liquid chromatography (LC). The influence of extraction parameters, such as the type and volume of extraction and disperser solvents, and ionic strength were studied. The developed extraction procedures provide a good enrichment factor for six compounds (61.22–243.97), good extraction recovery (53.04–92.1%), and good sample cleaning for both extraction procedures. Good limits of detection (0.13 to 0.69 µg/mL for GC and 0.07 to 0.15 µg/mL for HPLC) and limits of quantification (0.39 to 2.10 µg/mL for GC and 0.20 to 0.45 µg/mL for LC) were obtained. The developed procedures were successfully applied to the analysis of selected beta-blockers in wastewater samples, proving their applicability to the real samples.
From Molecules to Mind: The Critical Role of Chitosan, Collagen, Alginate, and Other Biopolymers in Neuroprotection and Neurodegeneration
Authors: Kruczkowska Weronika , Gałęziewska Julia , Grabowska Katarzyna Helena , Gromek Piotr , Czajkowska Karolina , Rybicki Maciej , Kciuk Mateusz , Kłosiński Karol Kamil
Published: February 2025

Neurodegenerative disorders present significant therapeutic challenges, particularly due to the complex nature of drug delivery to the central nervous system. This review investigates the applications of various biopolymers in neuroprotection and their potential role in treating neurodegeneration. We present a critical analysis of natural and synthetic biopolymers, focusing primarily on chitosan, fish collagen/gelatin, and alginate as key therapeutic agents. The review examines the fundamental mechanisms of brain development and neurodegeneration, establishing a framework for understanding how these biopolymers interact with neural tissues. By analyzing recent experimental studies, we evaluate the effectiveness of different biopolymer-based delivery systems in crossing the blood–brain barrier and their subsequent neuroprotective effects. Additionally, promising materials, including lignin, poly lactic-co-glycolic acid, and glucose-modified bovine serum albumin/procyanidin complexes, are briefly explored to provide a comprehensive overview of current developments in the field. Our analysis reveals that biopolymer-based approaches offer unique advantages in both neuroprotection and drug delivery, potentially opening new avenues for treating neurodegenerative conditions. This review synthesizes current knowledge and identifies promising directions for future research in biopolymer-based therapeutic strategies.
Systemic Administration of the Phytochemical, Myricetin, Attenuates the Excitability of Rat Nociceptive Secondary Trigeminal Neurons
Authors: Yamaguchi Sana , Chida Risako , Utugi Syogo , Sashide Yukito , Takeda Mamoru
Published: February 2025

While the modulation of the excitatory and inhibitory neuronal transmission by the phytochemical flavonoid, myricetin (MYR), has been noted in the nervous system, the way in which MYR affects the excitability of nociceptive sensory neurons in vivo remains to be established. This study aimed to explore whether administering MYR intravenously, in acute doses, to rats, diminishes the excitability of SpVc wide-dynamic range (WDR) spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (SpVc) neurons in response to nociceptive and non-nociceptive mechanical stimulation in vivo. Recordings of extracellular single units were obtained from SpVc neurons when orofacial mechanical stimulation was applied to anesthetized rats. The average firing rate of SpVc WDR neurons, to both non-noxious and noxious mechanical stimuli, was significantly and dose-dependently inhibited by MYR (1–5 mM, intravenously), and the maximum reversible inhibition of the discharge frequency, for both non-noxious and noxious mechanical stimuli, occurred within 5–10 min. The suppressive effects of MYR continued for about 20 min. These findings indicate that an acute, intravenous administration of MYR reduces the SpVc nociceptive transmission, likely through the inhibition of the CaV channels and by activating the Kv channels. Therefore, MYR might be utilized as a treatment for trigeminal nociceptive pain, without causing side effects.
The Effect of Deep Cryogenic Treatment on the Electrocatalytic Performance of a Pd@CFs Catalyst for Methanol Oxidation
Authors: Wang Chenxing , Mo Jiahui , Wang Haoting , Liu Jia , He Gege , He Xinhai , Song Yanyan
Published: February 2025

To enhance the electrocatalytic performance of a flexible Pd@CFs catalyst for methanol oxidation, deep cryogenic treatment in liquid nitrogen was introduced. The effects of the frequency and time of the deep cryogenic treatment on the surface crystal orientation, microstructure morphology, mechanical performance, and electrocatalytic performance for methanol oxidation were studied. The results showed that when the frequency of the deep cryogenic treatment was 2 times and the deep cryogenic time was 24 h, the electrocatalytic performance of the catalyst was the best. Compared with the catalyst without deep cryogenic treatment, the activity and stability of the catalyst increased by about 33% and 41%, respectively. The activity and stability of the catalyst were about 43.4 times and 6.3 times that of the commercial Pd/C catalyst, respectively. After 500 cycles of CV testing, the performance of the catalyst decay rate was only 3.9%. Compared to the CFs, the tensile strength and the elongation rates of the catalyst increased by 24.6% and 57%, respectively. This is due to deep cryogenic treatment causing Pd grains to rotate from a disordered arrangement to an ordered arrangement, making the metal particles more dispersed and exposing more active sites, ultimately improving the electrocatalytic oxidation ability of methanol. The excellent electrocatalytic efficiency of Pd@CFs-24-2 coupled with its simple and easy preparation method has great potential for promoting the development of DMFCs.
An In Situ Characterisation Method for 3-D Electrospun Foams
Authors: Almpanidis Kyriakos , Howard Chloe J. , Stolojan Vlad
Published: February 2025

Three-dimensional electrospun foams are emerging in a diversity of applications. However, their characterisation involves procedures to calculate fibre diameter and porosity, which take considerable time. Hence, in this paper, an in situ characterisation method is presented based on signal features of the grounding voltage. These features are combined into the in situ evaluation parameter Sr for each run r. The L9 Taguchi method was utilised to minimise the total number of experiments. Moreover, to prove the accuracy of this method, the traditional post-fabrication analysis was conducted, and the post-fabrication evaluation parameter was retrieved Qr for each run r. The analysis shows that both parameters detected the same experiment run as the optimal one (with an adjusted R2 = 0.84) for polystyrene electrospun foams for two solution concentrations: 15%wv (run 3 with mean S3 = 54.49 and mean Q3 = 0.248) and 20%wv (mean S5 = 2.49 and Q5 = 0.248), respectively. Also, the statistical analysis shows low standard deviations for the optimal and near-optimal runs, proving the method’s repeatability. Furthermore, a theoretical explanation is provided for selecting signal features based on the Maxwellian equivalent circuit approach for the electrospun jet. Finally, this fast in situ evaluation method can replace the post-fabrication time-consuming one. It can be used as a fundamental step for an intelligent artificial intelligence tool that predicts optimal foam formation.
Maternal MitoQ Treatment Is Protective Against Programmed Alterations in CYP Activity Due to Antenatal Dexamethasone
Authors: Bennett Millicent G. A. , Meakin Ashley S. , Botting-Lawford Kimberley J. , Niu Youguo , Ford Sage G. , Murphy Michael P. , Wiese Michael D. , Giussani Dino A. , Morrison Janna L.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: In pregnancy threatened by preterm birth, antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) are administered to accelerate fetal lung maturation. However, they have side effects, including the production of reactive oxygen species that can impact cytochrome P450 (CYP) activity. We hypothesised that antioxidants could protect a fetus treated with ACS during gestation and prevent the programming of altered hepatic CYP activity in the offspring. The primary outcome of our study was the impact of different maternal treatments on the activity of hepatic drug-metabolising enzymes in offspring. Methods: At 100 ± 1 days gestational age (dGA, term = 147 dGA), 73 ewes were randomly allocated to the following: saline (5 mL IV daily 105–137 ± 2 dGA, n = 17), ACS (Dexamethasone (Dex); 12 mg IM at 115 and 116 dGA; n = 25), MitoQ (6 mg/kg MS010 IV, daily bolus 105–137 ± 2 dGA; n = 17) or Dex and MitoQ (Dex+MitoQ; n = 14). CYP activity and protein abundance were assessed using functional assays and Western blot. Results: Dex decreased the hepatic activity of fetal CYP3A (−56%, PDex = 0.0322), and 9 mo lamb CYP1A2 (−22%, PDex = 0.0003), CYP2B6 (−36%, PDex = 0.0234), CYP2C8 (−34%, PDex = 0.0493) and CYP2E1 (−57%, PDex = 0.0009). For all, except CYP1A2, activity returned to control levels with Dex+MitoQ in 9 mo lambs. In 9 mo lambs, MitoQ alone increased activity of CYP2B6 (+16%, PMitoQ = 0.0011) and CYP3A (midazolam, +25%, PMitoQ = 0.0162) and increased CAT expression (PMitoQ = 0.0171). Dex+MitoQ increased CYP3A4/5 activity (testosterone, +65%, PIntx < 0.0003), decreased CYP1A2 activity (−14%, PIntx = 0.0036) and decreased mitochondrial abundance (PIntx = 0.0051). All treatments decreased fetal hepatic DRP1, a regulator of mitochondrial fission (PDex = 0.0055, PMitoQ = 0.0006 and PIntx = 0.0034). Conclusions: Antenatal Dex reduced activity of only one CYP in the fetus but programmed the reduced activity of several hepatic CYPs in young adult offspring, and this effect was ameliorated by combination with MitoQ.
Design, Optimization, Manufacture and Characterization of Milbemycin Oxime Nanoemulsions
Authors: Li Ze-En , Jin Yang-Guang , Hu Shao-Zu , Liu Yue , Duan Ming-Hui , Li Shi-Hao , Sun Long-Ji , Yang Fan , Yang Fang
Published: February 2025

Background: Despite the rapid development of nanoemulsions in recent years, no method has been established for the preparation of milbemycin oxime nanoemulsions. Milbemycin oxime is a widely used macrolide antibiotic in veterinary medicine, particularly for treating parasitic infections in animals such as dogs. However, its poor solubility in water limits its bioavailability and therapeutic efficacy. Developing a nanoemulsion formulation can enhance its solubility, stability, and bioavailability, offering a more effective treatment option. Methods: In this experiment, oil-in-water (O/W) milbemycin oxime nanoemulsions were successfully prepared by the phase inversion composition (PIC) method using ethyl butyrate as the oil phase, Tween-80 as the surfactant, and anhydrous ethanol as the co-surfactant. The region of O/W nanoemulsions was identified by constructing a pseudo-ternary phase diagram and, based on this, was screened by determining the droplet size, polydispersity coefficient, and zeta potential of each preparation. Results and Conclusions: The finalized formulation had a 2:1 ratio of surfactant to co-surfactant and a 7:3 ratio of mixed surfactant to oil, and its droplet size, polydispersity index (PDI), and zeta potential were 12.140 ± 0.128 nm, 0.155 ± 0.015, and −4.947 ± 0.768 mV, respectively. Transmission electron microscopy confirmed the spherical uniform distribution of droplets, and the nanoemulsions passed thermodynamic stability tests. The in vitro release of milbemycin oxime nanoemulsions followed first-order kinetic equations. In conclusion, nanoemulsions are an interesting option for the delivery of poorly water-soluble molecules such as milbemycin oxime.
Zinc Acetate as a Cross-Linking Agent in the Development of Enteric Microcapsules for Posaconazole
Authors: Szekalska Marta , Kasparavičienė Giedrė , Bernatonienė Jurga , Wolska Eliza , Misiak Paweł , Markiewicz Karolina Halina , Wilczewska Agnieszka Zofia , Czajkowska-Kośnik Anna , Winnicka Katarzyna
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Posaconazole is an antifungal agent from triazoles with variable bioavailability. To avoid its irregular absorption caused by gastric conditions and ensure more repeatable pharmacokinetic enabling the maximization of its absorption regardless of food intake without the need to administer multiple doses, can be provided by the technology of enteric drug preparations. The cross-linking of polysaccharide polymers with divalent and trivalent cations enables multi-unit formulations to be obtained that prevent drug absorption in the stomach. Microcapsules, as an example of multi-unit drug dosage forms, provide more predictable gastric emptying, depending on nutritional status, and spread extensively throughout the gastrointestinal tract. Methods: Therefore, the utilization of zinc acetate for the cross-linking of the alginate and pectin mixture was evaluated. The obtained formulations were evaluated for the impact of cross-linking process and pectin’s presence on their pharmaceutical, mucoadhesive, physicochemical and antifungal properties. Results: It was shown that cross-linked microcapsules by zinc acetate provided delayed posaconazole release. Additionally, the cross-linking process with Zn2+ ions significantly enhanced antifungal activity against the analyzed Candida strains. It was observed that pectin content in the formulation enhanced the swelling ability in an intestinal condition and increased the mucoadhesive properties of drug-loaded formulations to the intestinal mucosa.
Advances in Materials Science for Precision Melanoma Therapy: Nanotechnology-Enhanced Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Moni Sivakumar S. , Moshi Jobran M. , Matou-Nasri Sabine , Alotaibi Shmoukh , Hawsawi Yousef M. , Elmobark Mohamed Eltaib , Hakami Ahlam Mohammed S. , Jeraiby Mohammed A. , Sulayli Ahmed A. , Moafa Hassan N.
Published: February 2025

Melanoma, a highly aggressive form of skin cancer, poses a major therapeutic challenge due to its metastatic potential, resistance to conventional therapies, and the complexity of the tumor microenvironment (TME). Materials science and nanotechnology advances have led to using nanocarriers such as liposomes, dendrimers, polymeric nanoparticles, and metallic nanoparticles as transformative solutions for precision melanoma therapy. This review summarizes findings from Web of Science, PubMed, EMBASE, Scopus, and Google Scholar and highlights the role of nanotechnology in overcoming melanoma treatment barriers. Nanoparticles facilitate passive and active targeting through mechanisms such as the enhanced permeability and retention (EPR) effect and functionalization with tumor-specific ligands, thereby improving the accuracy of drug delivery and reducing systemic toxicity. Stimuli-responsive systems and multi-stage targeting further improve therapeutic precision and overcome challenges such as poor tumor penetration and drug resistance. Emerging therapeutic platforms combine diagnostic imaging with therapeutic delivery, paving the way for personalized medicine. However, there are still issues with scalability, biocompatibility, and regulatory compliance. This comprehensive review highlights the potential of integrating nanotechnology with advances in genetics and proteomics, scalable, and patient-specific therapies. These interdisciplinary innovations promise to redefine the treatment of melanoma and provide safer, more effective, and more accessible treatments. Continued research is essential to bridge the gap between evidence-based scientific advances and clinical applications.
Application of Electrical Resistivity Measurements for Continuous Monitoring of the Municipal Solid Waste Biodrying Process
Authors: Chungam Bongkoch , Ishimori Hiroyuki , Vinitnantharat Soydoa , Towprayoon Sirintornthep , Chiemchaisri Chart , Wangyao Komsilp
Published: February 2025

Waste-to-energy technology has proven effective in reducing the mass and volume of waste, thereby minimizing contamination sources and residual fractions. However, high moisture content in waste significantly reduces the efficiency of energy recovery. Biodrying has shown great potential for moisture reduction through microbial activity, enhancing the efficiency of waste-to-energy processes. While the lack of proper real-time monitoring methods hinders the optimization of the biodrying processes. This study proposes an efficient method for monitoring the biodrying of municipal solid waste based on real-time electrical resistivity monitoring. During biodrying, resistivity was measured alongside key parameters like temperature, weight, gas emissions from the biodrying process, relative air humidity, moisture, and waste density. The results indicate a good correlation between bulk electrical resistivity (441–614 Ω·m) and temperature increases above ambient within the first 36 h (r2 = 0.97–0.99). Statistical analyses also revealed the correlations of electrical resistivity with waste density (negative correlation, r2 = 0.68–0.97) and gas emissions (moderate to strong, r2 = 0.45–0.72) during different biodrying phases. These findings demonstrate the relationship between electrical resistivity and key biodrying parameters, which can be used for the development of biodrying and to enhance process control efficiency, thus enhancing sustainable waste management efficiency.
Food Production and Global Environmental Change: Stewardship as a Guiding Principle for Christian Development Organizations
Authors: van der Stoep Jan , van Nieuw Amerongen Maarten , Treuren Antonie
Published: February 2025

Providing food security has traditionally been an important motive for development cooperation. At the same time, agriculture also has a major impact on the environment, which in turn threatens food production itself. This article argues that the tension between food production and global environmental change is largely caused by a modern dualism that pits man and nature, donor and recipient, and modernity and tradition against each other. It explores whether stewardship can help Christian NGOs find a way forward. Stewardship is closely linked to a Christian view of the relationship between man and earth and the relationship of people to each other. However, it is not uncontroversial. Therefore, a reinterpretation of the concept is needed. Finally, three principles are discussed that derive from a renewed vision of stewardship and can provide strategic direction: working together with nature, empowering local communities and adaptive transformation. Stewardship does not offer ready-made solutions, but that is precisely its strength. It appeals to practical wisdom. Every context is different and requires its own balance of values and interests.
Agentic Workflows for Improving Large Language Model Reasoning in Robotic Object-Centered Planning
Authors: Moncada-Ramirez Jesus , Matez-Bandera Jose-Luis , Gonzalez-Jimenez Javier , Ruiz-Sarmiento Jose-Raul
Published: February 2025

Large Language Models (LLMs) provide cognitive capabilities that enable robots to interpret and reason about their workspace, especially when paired with semantically rich representations like semantic maps. However, these models are prone to generating inaccurate or invented responses, known as hallucinations, that can produce an erratic robotic operation. This can be addressed by employing agentic workflows, structured processes that guide and refine the model’s output to improve response quality. This work formally defines and qualitatively analyzes the impact of three agentic workflows (LLM Ensemble, Self-Reflection, and Multi-Agent Reflection) on enhancing the reasoning capabilities of an LLM guiding a robotic system to perform object-centered planning. In this context, the LLM is provided with a pre-built semantic map of the environment and a query, to which it must respond by determining the most relevant objects for the query. This response can be used in a multitude of downstream tasks. Extensive experiments were carried out employing state-of-the-art LLMs and semantic maps generated from the widely-used datasets ScanNet and SceneNN. The results show that agentic workflows significantly enhance object retrieval performance, especially in scenarios requiring complex reasoning, with improvements averaging up to 10% over the baseline.
L-GABS: Parametric Modeling of a Generic Active Lumbar Exoskeleton for Ergonomic Impact Assessment
Authors: Pérez-Soto Manuel , Marín Javier , Marín José J.
Published: February 2025

Companies increasingly implement exoskeletons in their production lines to reduce musculoskeletal disorders. Studies have been conducted on the general ergonomic effects of exoskeletons in production environments; however, it remains challenging to predict the biomechanical effects these devices may have in specific jobs. This article proposes the parametric modeling of an active lumbar exoskeleton using the Forces ergonomic method, which calculates the ergonomic risk using motion capture in the workplace, considering the internal joint forces. The exoskeleton was studied to model it in the Forces method using a four-phase approach based on experimental observations (Phase 1) and objective data collection via motion capture with inertial sensors and load cells for lifting load movements. From the experimentation the angles of each body segment, the effort perceived by the user, and the activation conditions were obtained (Phase 2). After modeling development (Phase 3), the experimental results regarding the force and risk were evaluated obtaining differences between model and experimental data of 0.971 ± 0.171 kg in chest force and 1.983 ± 0.678% in lumbar risk (Phase 4). This approach provides a tool to evaluate the biomechanical effects of this device in a work task, offering a parametric and direct approximation of the effects prior to implementation.
The Experimental Study of the Validity of the Lagrange–Helmholtz Relationship in Geomagnetic Fields
Authors: Zhang Jing-jin , Xu Yu-wei , Yi Zeng-zhou , Yang Qin-lao , Huang Jun-kun , Zong Fang-ke
Published: February 2025

Streak cameras, known for their ultra-high spatiotemporal resolution, rely heavily on the spatial resolution capabilities of their core component, the streak tube, to ensure engineering stability. However, factors such as assembly inaccuracies and external magnetic fields, including geomagnetic interference, often cause deformation and shifts in the imaging plane. To enhance equipment stability and accelerate engineering advancements, a dual approach involving hardware improvements and computational imaging-based software corrections is essential. Future image reconstruction efforts in software require robust benchmarks; however, existing benchmarks are predominantly validated under idealized conditions, neglecting real-world interference factors. This study, grounded in electron optical imaging principles, experimentally confirms that the Lagrange–Helmholtz relationship remains valid within streak tube systems under geomagnetic field influences. These findings affirm that the imaging plane retains spatial resolution consistency despite such environmental disturbances. Consequently, the need for specific image orientations during reconstruction can be eliminated, enabling the development of more robust and efficient image reconstruction algorithms.
Task-Offloading Optimization Using a Genetic Algorithm in Hybrid Fog Computing for the Internet of Drones
Authors: Attalah Mohamed Amine , Zaidi Sofiane , Mellal Naçima , Calafate Carlos T.
Published: February 2025

Research and development on task offloading over the Internet of Drones (IoD) has expanded rapidly in the last few years. Task offloading in a fog IoD environment is very challenging due to the high dynamics of the IoD topology, which cause intermittent connections, as well as the stringent requirements of task offloading, such as reduced delay. To overcome these challenges, in this paper, we propose a task-offloading optimization strategy using a heuristic genetic algorithm (GA) with hybrid fog computing technology for the Internet of Drones, named GA Hybrid-Fog. The proposed solution employs a GA for task offloading from edge Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) to both fog base stations (FBSs) and fog UAVs (FUAVs) in order to optimize offloading delays (transmission and fog computing delays) and guarantee higher storage and processing capacity. Experimental results show that GA Hybrid-Fog achieves greater improvements in task-offloading delays compared to other IoD technologies (GA BS-Fog, GA UAV-Fog, and GA UAV-Edge).
Occupational Risk Management Through the Lens of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): An Integrated Approach to Promoting Sustainability in the Workplace
Authors: Milea (Pârvu) Adriana , Moraru Roland-Iosif , Cioca Lucian-Ionel
Published: February 2025

This study explores the link between the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the process of identifying and assessing occupational risks in industrial and organizational environments, highlighting the importance of these goals in promoting a safe, healthy, and sustainable work environment. In the center of this analysis are SDG 3 (“Good Health and Well-Being”) and SDG 8 (“Decent Work and Economic Growth”), which highlight the need to create working conditions that prioritize the safety of workers. The study analyzes the correlation between the implementation of these global objectives and occupational risk management processes. Research results indicate that linking the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to these processes reduces the incidence of accidents and occupational diseases and also contributes to the achievement of global sustainability goals. An integrated approach improves the resilience of organizations, promotes equity in the professional environment, and supports sustainable economic development. The findings of the study offer important insights for policymakers, managers, and researchers, indicating that adopting a common framework for sustainability and occupational safety can bring significant benefits at local and global levels. Thus, the research encourages the widespread application of this integrative model in organizational policies and practices.
Is Oil Really a Stumbling Block to Environmental Sustainability? From the Price Perspective
Authors: Qin Meng , Jiang Hongfang , Pang Lidong , Su Chiwei
Published: February 2025

The United States is exposed to the threats of massive carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions generated by non-renewable energy in reaching environmental sustainability. With the wavelet-based quantile-on-quantile approach, this paper delves into the impact of the most typical fossil fuel, oil, on CO2 emissions from a price perspective. The results highlight that oil is a mixed blessing for fostering environmental sustainability in the short–medium run. Mainly, CO2 emissions are more susceptible to positively responding to the bullish oil market in the medium term. Nevertheless, it also reveals the underlying negative relationship rooted in the long run. The results are endorsed by the theoretical mechanisms between energy prices and emissions, which indicate the role of high oil prices in driving long-term CO2 emissions mitigation and environmental sustainability. Therefore, industries should resist the temptation to indulge heavily in short- to medium-term price hikes instead of prudently reacting to the bullish signal. Moreover, under the environmental sustainability ambitions, the strategy of expanding investment in green technologies innovation to reduce the dependence on oil cannot be shelved.