bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Localization and Flatness in Quantale Theory
Authors: Georgescu George
Published: January 2025

The study of flat ring morphisms is an important theme in commutative algebra. The purpose of this article is to develop an abstract theory of flatness in the framework of coherent quantales. The first question we must address is the definition of a notion of “flat quantale morphism” as an abstraction of flat ring morphisms. For this, we start from a characterization of the flat ring morphism in terms of the ideal residuation theory. The flat coherent quantale morphism is studied in relation to the localization of coherent quantales. The quantale generalizations of some classical theorems from the flat ring morphisms theory are proved. The Going-down and Going-up properties are then studied in connection with localization theory and flat quantale morphisms. As an application, characterizations of zero-dimensional coherent quantales are obtained, formulated in terms of Going-down, Going-up, and localization. We also prove two characterization theorems for the coherent quantales of dimension at most one. The results of the paper can be applied both in the theory of commutative rings and to other algebraic structures: F-rings, semirings, bounded distributive lattices, commutative monoids, etc.
New Approach for Quality Function Deployment Based on Linguistic Distribution Assessments and CRITIC Method
Authors: Mao Ling-Xiang , Lan Jing , Chen Anqi , Shi Hua , Liu Hu-Chen
Published: January 2025

Quality function deployment (QFD) is a customer-oriented quality management tool used to maximize customer satisfaction by considering the correlations between customer requirements and engineering characteristics. However, the conventional QFD method exhibits some shortcomings when used in real situations, especially in terms of correlation evaluation and engineering characteristic ranking. Therefore, the objective of this study is to propose a new QFD approach based on linguistic distribution assessments and the CRiteria Importance Through Inter-Criteria Correlation (CRITIC) method to improve the effectiveness of the traditional QFD. Specifically, linguistic distribution assessments are utilized to describe the relationships between customer requirements and engineering characteristics. The CRITIC method is extended and used to determine the ranking orders of the engineering characteristics identified in QFD. To demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed QFD, a case example regarding the performance management system’s development is presented. It is shown that the QFD approach proposed in this paper can not only represent experts’ uncertain linguistic relationship evaluations flexibly but also determine more reliable importance rankings of engineering characteristics in production planning.
A Novel Prescribed-Time Convergence Acceleration Algorithm with Time Rescaling
Authors: Mei Xuehui , Zhang Pengrui , Jiang Haijun , Yu Zhiyong
Published: January 2025

In machine learning, the processing of datasets is an unavoidable topic. One important approach to solving this problem is to design some corresponding algorithms so that they can eventually converge to the optimal solution of the optimization problem. Most existing acceleration algorithms exhibit asymptotic convergence. In order to ensure that the optimization problem converges to the optimal solution within the prescribed time, a novel prescribed-time convergence acceleration algorithm with time rescaling is presented in this paper. Two prescribed-time acceleration algorithms are constructed by introducing time rescaling, and the acceleration algorithms are used to solve unconstrained optimization problems and optimization problems containing equation constraints. Some important theorems are given, and the convergence of the acceleration algorithms is proven using the Lyapunov function method. Finally, we provide numerical simulations to verify the effectiveness and rationality of our theoretical results.
Myocardial Infarction-Associated Shock: A Comprehensive Analysis of Phenotypes, SCAI Classification, and Outcome Assessment
Authors: Dil Stanislav , Kercheva Maria , Panteleev Oleg , Demianov Sergey , Kanev Aleksandr , Belich Nina , Kornienko Boris , Ryabov Vyacheslav
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: In-hospital mortality associated with myocardial infarction complicated by cardiogenic shock (MI-CS) remains critically high. A particularly challenging form, mixed shock (MS), combines features of cardiogenic shock (CS) with distributive elements such as vasodilation and reduced vascular resistance. MS is associated with elevated mortality rates and presents unique diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study aimed to analyze the clinical, historical, instrumental, and laboratory characteristics of the primary phenotypes of MI-CS, stratified according to the Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI) shock severity scale. Materials and Methods: In this single-center, retrospective observational study, we reviewed the medical records of 1289 patients admitted to the emergency cardiology department from 1 January to 12 December 2020. Among them, 117 patients were identified as having MI-CS and were divided into two groups: MS (n = 48) and isolated CS (n = 69). The data were analyzed using the SCAI shock classification. Logistic regression analysis was employed to identify predictors of mortality and improved survival outcomes. Results: Patients with MS were older (80 years [71.0; 83.0] vs. 73 years [64.0; 81.0], p = 0.035). The overall mortality rate was significantly higher in the MS group (68% vs. 53%, RR = 1.438, 95% CI: 1.041–1.986, p = 0.03). Logistic regression identified mechanical ventilation (OR = 8.33, 95% CI: 2.54–22.80, p = 0.012), elevated lactate levels (OR = 1.20, 95% CI: 1.02–1.41, p = 0.026), and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) (OR = 7.97, 95% CI: 2.51–24.40, p < 0.0001) as independent predictors of mortality. Conversely, the use of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) (OR = 0.22, 95% CI: 0.06–0.80, p = 0.021) and a higher body mass index (BMI) (OR = 0.91, 95% CI: 0.84–0.99, p = 0.038) were associated with reduced mortality risk. Conclusions: MS in the context of MI-CS represents a distinct clinical phenotype with specific hemodynamic features and significantly worsened outcomes. The identification of mortality predictors, such as mechanical ventilation, elevated lactate levels, and CPR, alongside protective factors like IABP use and a higher BMI, underscores the importance of early and tailored therapeutic interventions. These findings highlight the need for further studies to refine treatment protocols and improve outcomes in this high-risk population.
Long-Term Effects of Sinus Floor Elevation with and Without Bone Graft: A Systematic Analysis of Randomized Clinical Trials
Authors: Tent Andrei Paul , Țig Ioan Andrei , Bran Simion , Zlotu Andra , Mester Alexandru , Onisor Florin
Published: January 2025

Background and Objective: The aim of this systematic review was to assess clinical trials on the efficiency of sinus lift techniques with and without bone grafting in the atrophic posterior maxilla. Materials and Methods: This article was written under the PRISMA and the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions guidelines. PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were electronically searched until December 2023. The risk of bias was assessed according to Cochrane Risk of Bias tool guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed for implant survival rate (ISR), marginal bone loss (MBL), and endo-sinus bone gain (ESBG). Results: At the end of the electronic search, 5 clinical trials were considered eligible. Statistical analysis was achieved for osteotome sinus floor elevation. The ISR at 3 years had a risk ratio (RR) of 0.98 [0.90, 1.07] (CI 95%), p = 0.7, and at 5 years, RR 1.02 [0.93, 1.11] (CI 95%), p = 0.68. The MBL, at 3 years, indicated a weighted mean difference (WMD) of 0.01 [−0.15, 0.16] (CI 95%), p = 0.93, and at 5 years, WMD of −0.08 [−0.53, 0.37] (CI 95%), p = 0.73. ESBG at 3 years had a WMD of −0.44 [−1.05, 0.17] (CI 95%), p = 0.16, and at 5 years, WMD of −0.61 [−1.63, 0.41] (CI 95%), p = 0.24. Conclusions: The available evidence underlines that the osteotome sinus floor elevation technique without bone graft may be used.
Clinical Characteristics of Early-Onset and Late-Onset Multiple Sclerosis in Patients from Lithuania
Authors: Šlajūtė Emilija , Vičkačka Naglis , Klėgėris Tautvydas , Ulozienė Ingrida , Balnytė Renata
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Early-onset MS (EOMS) and late-onset MS (LOMS) differ in terms of symptom presentation, disease progression, and disability outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the clinical characteristics of patients with EOMS and LOMS in Lithuania. Materials and Methods: A retrospective analysis of patients’ medical records was conducted at the Lithuanian University of Health Sciences, Kaunas Clinics Department of Neurology. This study included 97 patients with multiple sclerosis, of which 34 were diagnosed with EOMS and 63 with LOMS. Results: The female/male ratio did not differ significantly in the EOMS group (1.26:1), while in the LOMS group, the female-to-male ratio was 2:1. All EOMS patients were diagnosed with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), while in the LOMS group, RRMS was observed in 55.6%, secondary progressive multiple sclerosis (SPMS) was observed in 27%, and primary progressive multiple sclerosis (PPMS) was observed in 17.4% of patients (p < 0.001). The most common initial symptoms in the EOMS group were brainstem dysfunction (50%), and sensory (38.2%) and visual (26.5%) disorders, whereas LOMS patients predominantly experienced brainstem dysfunction (50.8%) and motor impairments (47.6%). The EOMS group experienced more clinical relapses in the first year after diagnosis, along with more frequent radiological signs of disease activity compared to LOMS (p < 0.001). Both groups demonstrated a significant increase in Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score at the last follow-up visit compared to the baseline, while the LOMS group had higher EDSS scores both at the baseline and at the last follow-up compared to the EOMS group (p < 0.001). Only LOMS patients had an increase in Multiple Sclerosis Severity Score (MSSS) at the last follow-up compared to the baseline (p = 0.028), and MSSS was higher than in EOMS patients both at the baseline (p = 0.004) and the last follow-up (p < 0.001). Conclusions: There was no significant gender difference in the EOMS group, whereas in the LOMS group, females were predominant. Both groups had RRMS as the most common disease course. At the onset of MS, brainstem dysfunction was the most common symptom in both patient groups. EOMS patients had a more active disease course, in contrast to LOMS patients, who exhibited higher levels of disability, suggesting a progressive disease.
A Study of the Corrosion Behavior of AHSS Complex-Phase CP 780 Employing an Electrochemical Noise Technique Analyzed by Different Methods
Authors: Lara-Banda Maria , Almeraya-Calderón Facundo , Jáquez-Muñoz Jesús Manuel , Nieves-Mendoza Demetrio , Baltazar-Zamora Miguel Angel , Olguín-Coca Javier , Estupiñan-Lopez Francisco , Cabral Miramontes Jose , Santiago-Hurtado Griselda , Gaona-Tiburcio Citlalli
Published: January 2025

The automotive industry employs structural steels with E-coats to reduce weight and increase the corrosion resistance of chassis, reducing CO2 emissions. Due to their mechanical properties, part of the chassis is a composite of advanced high-strength steels (AHSS). AHSSs are coated by conversion methods such as phosphate to increase epoxy coating adherence and corrosion resistance. The main point of this research is to characterize an AHSS complex-phase (CP) 780 in blank, with a phosphate coating and an E-coat organic coating using electrochemical noise, employing time-domain, frequency-domain, time–frequency-domain, and chaotic system methods to determine the type and corrosion kinetics of each system. The electrochemical noise technique was made with a conventional three-electrode cell, using a saturated calomel as a reference electrode. Data were recorded at 1024 s, at 1 data per second in a 3.5 wt. % NaCl electrolyte, according to ASTM G199-09. The results show how AHSS CP 780 presented uniform corrosion, similarly to the phosphate sample; however, the E-coat presented a trend of a localized process when analyzed by Wavelets transform. On the other hand, corrosion resistance increased for the E-coat sample, with values of 2.58 × 106 Ω·cm2. According to the results of the research, all the samples are susceptible to present localized corrosion.
Microstructural Evolution and Oxidation Resistance of Fe-30Ni-15Cr Alloy for Internal Combustion Engine Valves Under Long-Term High-Temperature Exposure and Heat Treatment
Authors: Tu Yuguo , Xiao Xueshan , Zhu Zhiyuan , Zhou Linzhen
Published: January 2025

Iron–nickel-based superalloy is an ideal substitute for the expensive Inconel 625 and Inconel 751 alloys. To elucidate the evolution of the microstructure and properties of Ni30 alloy under different thermal treatment conditions, a systematic study was conducted on the microstructural transformation of the alloy’s strengthening γ′ phase following solution treatment and aging, as well prolonged exposure at 750 °C, and the oxidation behavior of the Ni30 alloy was examined. During prolonged thermal exposure, grain growth occurs mainly in the initial stage, and after 200 h, the prolonged exposure time leads to a significant coarsening of γ′ precipitates, whose area fraction increases by more than 10 times compared to their unaged state. After 100 h of aging, the alloy reaches a peak tensile strength of 1270 MPa and a yield strength of 820 MPa; after 2000 h, the alloy maintains a relatively high strength with a slight decrease in ductility. The oxidation kinetic curve of Ni30 alloy follows the quasi-parabolic oxidation law at 750 °C, and its oxidation rate is consistently lower than 0.1 g·m−2·h−1 throughout the whole oxidation process, which indicates that it has excellent oxidation resistance. The external oxide layer of Ni30 alloy shows a bilayered structure, and no obvious surface porosity or flaking of oxidation products were observed throughout the high-temperature oxidation test. This study not only contributes to the improvement of material properties, but also promotes innovation and development in the field of high-temperature engineering applications that will help to meet the increasingly stringent requirements of high-temperature working environments.
Performance of Gears Manufactured Through Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Basak Animesh Kumar , Ghasseb Jack , Pramanik Alokesh
Published: January 2025

Bound metal deposition (BMD) additive manufacturing technique was used to fabricate gears of PH 17-4 stainless steel material. The gears were fabricated with different layer heights (namely 150 μm and 50 μm) and also subjected to post-fabrication machining. Each gear was tested against commercially available gear in a high-precision control test rig. The operational temperature and noise level were measured during the test, while the material loss due to wear was evaluated at the end of the test. The 50 μm layer height gear performed the best with the least wear loss, minimum noise generation, and temperature rise. The 150 μm layer height gear, which was mechanically polished, performed very similarly to it (50 μm layer height gear) and cost 33% less to print; thus, it was considered the best performing when cost was incorporated. The conclusions found that post machining of printed parts greatly impacts their performance, and thus, the post-print conditions should be considered just as much as the printing conditions.
A Study of Volatile Organic Compounds in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea
Authors: Gui Chuan Hao , Jia Zhunan , Xing Zihao , Zhang Fuchang , Du Fang , Tham Alex Chengyao , Lim Ming Yann , Chong Yaw Khian , Chew Agnes Si Qi , Chong Khai Beng
Published: January 2025

Background: Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) is a prevalent sleep disorder characterized by intermittent upper airway obstruction, leading to significant health consequences. Traditional diagnostic methods, such as polysomnography, are time-consuming and resource-intensive. Objectives: This study explores the potential of proton-transfer-reaction mass spectrometry (PTR-MS) in identifying volatile organic compound (VOC) biomarkers for the non-invasive detection of OSA. Methods: Breath samples from 89 participants, including 49 OSA patients and 40 controls, were analyzed using PTR-MS. Significance analysis was performed between OSA patients and controls to identify potential biomarkers for OSA. To as-sess the differences in VOC concentrations between OSA patients and control subjects, the Wilcoxon rank-sum test was employed. partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA) analysis and heatmap plot was conducted to visualize the differentiation between OSA patients and control subjects based on their VOC profiles.In order to further investigate the correlation between identified biomarkers and the severity of OSA measured by Apnea–Hypopnea Index (AHI), regression analysis was conducted between biomarkers and AHI Index. Results: The results identified specific VOCs, including m045 (acetaldehyde), m095.950, and m097.071, which showed significant differences between OSA patients and controls. Advanced statistical analyses, including PLS-DA and correlation mapping, highlighted the robustness of these biomarkers, with m045 (acetaldehyde) specifically emerging as a potential biomarker associated with the AHI Index. Conclusions: This study underscores the potential of VOCs as biomarkers for identifying patients with severe AHI levels. The analysis of VOCs using PTR-MS presents a rapid, non-invasive, and cost-effective method that could be seamlessly integrated into clinical practice, allowing clinicians to better stratify patients based on their need for polysomnography and prioritize those requiring earlier testing. Future studies are necessary to validate these findings in larger cohorts and to explore the integration of PTR-MS with other diagnostic modalities for improved accuracy and clinical utility.
Thermodynamic Analysis of the Steam Reforming of Acetone by Gibbs Free Energy (GFE) Minimization
Authors: Ighalo Joshua O. , Onyema Faith Uchechukwu , Ojukwu Victor E. , Egbueri Johnbosco C.
Published: January 2025

Steam reforming is an important industrial process for hydrogen production. Acetone, the by-product of phenol production from cumene peroxidation, is a useful source of hydrogen due to its availability and low value compared to hydrogen fuel. This study aimed to utilize the Gibbs free energy minimization method using the Soave–Redlich–Kwong (SRK) equation of state (EOS) to conduct a thermodynamic analysis of the steam reforming process for pure component acetone. The steam reforming process is temperature dependent, with increasing temperatures leading to higher hydrogen production. Competing reactions, particularly the exothermic reverse water–gas shift, impact hydrogen yields beyond 650 °C. The study identified 600 °C as the optimum temperature to strike a balance between maximizing hydrogen production and minimizing the reverse water–gas shift’s impact. The optimal hydrogen yield (70 mol%) was achieved at a steam-to-oil ratio (STOR) of 12. High STOR values shift the equilibrium of the water–gas shift reaction towards hydrogen production due to increased steam, effectively consuming acetone and favoring the desired product. Atmospheric pressure is optimum for hydrogen production because the equilibrium of gas phase reactions shifts in favor of the lighter components at lower pressures.
Research on the Performance of a Liquid–Solid Triboelectric Nanogenerator Prototype Based on Multiphase Liquid
Authors: Wang Wei , Yan Jin , Wang Xianzhang , Pang Hongchen , Sun Chengqi , Sun Yin , Wang Lijun , Zhang Dapeng
Published: January 2025

In recent years, liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerators (L-S TENGs) have been rapidly developed in the field of liquid energy harvesting and self-powered sensing. This is due to a number of advantages inherent in the technology, including the low cost of fabricated materials, structural diversity, high charge-energy conversion efficiency, environmental friendliness, and a wide range of applications. As liquid phase dielectric materials typically used in L-S TENG, a variety of organic and inorganic single-phase liquids, including distilled water, acidic solutions, sodium chloride solutions, acetone, dimethyl sulfoxide, and acetonitrile, as well as paraffinic oils, have been used in experiments. However, it is noteworthy that the function of multiphase liquids as dielectric materials is still understudied. The “Multiphase Liquid Triboelectric Nanogenerator Prototype (ML-TENG Pro)” presented in this paper takes a single-electrode solid–liquid triboelectric nanogenerator as the basic model and uses lubricating oil and deionized water as dielectric materials. After verifying the stability of single-phase liquid materials (e.g., DI water, seawater, ethanol, etc.) for power generation, the power generation performances of oil–water two-phase, gas–oil–water three-phase (with a small number of bubbles), and gas–oil–water three-phase (with many bubbles) in open space are further investigated. COMSOL Multiphysics 6.0 software was used to investigate the material transport mechanism and formation of oil–water two-phase and gas–oil–water three-phase. Finally, this study presents the power generation performance of ML-TENG Pro in the extreme state of gas–oil–water three-phase “emulsification”. This paper outlines the limitations of the ML-TENG, named PRO, and suggests avenues for future improvement. The research presented in this paper provides a theoretical basis for evaluating the quality of lubricants for mechanical power equipment.
Effects of Machining Parameters on Abrasive Flow Machining of Single Crystal γ-TiAl Alloy Based on Molecular Dynamics
Authors: Li Junye , Song Chao , Du Xin , Xie Hongcai , Zhao Jinghe , Chen Ying
Published: January 2025

Observing the intricate microstructure changes in abrasive flow machining with traditional experimental methods is difficult. Molecular dynamics simulations are used to look at the process of abrasive flow processing from a microscopic scale in this work. A molecular dynamics model for micro-cutting a single crystal γ-TiAl alloy with a rough surface in a fluid medium environment is constructed, which is more realistic. The evolution of material removal, cutting force, temperature, energy, and dislocation during micro-cutting are analyzed. The impact of cutting depth, abrasive particle sizes, and abrasive material on the micro-cutting process are analyzed. The analysis shows that the smaller cutting depth and abrasive particle sizes are beneficial to obtain a better machining surface, and the cubic boron nitride (CBN) abrasive is an effective substitute material for diamonds. The purpose of this study is to provide unique insights for improving the material removal rate and subsurface quality by adjusting machining parameters in actual abrasive flow precision machining.
An X-Band Class-J GaN MMIC Power Amplifier with Well-Designed In-Band Output Power Flatness
Authors: Zheng Bangjie , Cheng Zhiqun , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhang Ruizhe , Gong Tingwei , Le Chao
Published: January 2025

This paper presents an X-band high-power GaN MMIC power amplifier (PA). To balance efficiency, output power, and saturated power flatness, the load-line theory is employed to analyze and validate the power variation trends within an extended continuous Class B/J (CCBJ) impedance space. Theoretical constant power contours are plotted within this space. An L-C impedance matching network is used to match the amplifier’s output impedance to the overlapping region of the 0.5 dB constant power contour and the CCBJ impedance space, significantly improving the in-band power flatness of the PA based on the CCBJ design approach. Additionally, an RC parallel structure is integrated into the interstage matching network to maximize gain while ensuring stability. The proposed PA, implemented using a 0.25 µm commercial GaN process, achieves a saturated output power of 47–47.6 dBm with in-band fluctuations within ± 0.3 dB, a power gain of 27.0–27.8 dB, and an efficiency of 40–45.5% across the X-band.
Revisiting the Synergistic In Vitro Antimicrobial and Antibiofilm Potential of Chlorhexidine Gluconate and Cetrimide in Combination as an Antiseptic and Disinfectant Agent
Authors: Jain Diamond , Gupta Rimjhim , Mehta Rashmi , Prabhakaran Pratheesh N. , Kumari Deva , Bhui Kulpreet , Murali Deepa
Published: January 2025

Chlorhexidine and cetrimide are often used as antiseptics and disinfectants. While their individual activities are well-documented, their synergism has rarely been evaluated. Here, we attempted to evaluate the antimicrobial and antibiofilm effects of the combination of these two antimicrobial agents against two environment isolates, viz., P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The synergism was assayed by determining the fractional inhibitory concentrations, while the antibiofilm effects were determined using crystal violet staining and the resazurin assay. Further, the effects on the biofilms were visualized using brightfield and confocal laser scanning microscopy. Our results show that the combination of these antimicrobials resulted in synergistic inhibition of P. aeruginosa growth. When tested at concentrations below the individual MICs (one-quarter of the MICs), the combination was able to significantly reduce the adherence of S. aureus biofilms to a polystyrene surface, while no effect was observed for P. aeruginosa. The combination was also able to significantly reduce the viability of pre-formed biofilms of both bacteria, thereby showing its antibiofilm potential. Next, we evaluated the performance of this combination against a wide array of micro-organisms. This fixed-dose combination formulation exhibited a significant reduction in the viability of an array of clinically relevant micro-organisms, including ESKAPE pathogens, Mycobacterium sp., MRSA, Leptospira, Candida sp., norovirus and adenovirus. Overall, it can be inferred that the combination of chlorhexidine and cetrimide is a potential biocide that continues to be relevant for use in antisepsis and disinfection against infection-causing pathogens.
Circulation of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Poland Between Seasons of 2009/2010 and 2022/2023 Based on SENTINEL System
Authors: Szymański Karol , Poznańska Anna , Kondratiuk Katarzyna , Hallmann Ewelina , Łuniewska Katarzyna , Masny Aleksander , Brydak Lidia B.
Published: January 2025

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a prevalent pathogen of the respiratory tract, posing a significant threat to individuals with compromised immune systems, particularly the elderly and neonates in hospital settings. The primary objective of this study was to identify a specific period within the epidemic season during which healthcare providers can anticipate an increased incidence of RSV infections and characterize the epidemic season in Poland. Molecular biology techniques were employed to diagnose samples at Sanitary Stations and the National Institute of Public Health (NIC) in Warsaw. Epidemiological data were collected using the SENTINEL surveillance system. In the 2020/2021 season, there were no reported cases of RSV due to the prioritization of SARS-CoV-2 diagnostics. Before the pandemic, the period of heightened RSV infection risk typically commenced in the 51st week or later, with a statistically significant correlation indicating that a later start was associated with a shorter season duration (p = 0.034). In post-pandemic seasons, the temporal distribution of RSV cases exhibited a notable shift, with earlier season onset, peak, and conclusion. Data indicate that RSV is predominantly diagnosed in pediatric populations; however, since the 2017/2018 season, there has been an increase in RSV diagnoses among other age groups. Given the observed shifts in the seasonal peak following the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic, ongoing surveillance is required to ascertain whether these changes are permanent or transient.
NcSWP8, a New Spore Wall Protein, Interacts with Polar Tube Proteins in the Parasitic Microsporidia Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae
Authors: Wang Pengfei , Li Dufu , Hai Qianmin , Liu Siming , Zhang Yueyue , Zhang Jun , Xu Jinshan , Ma Zhengang , Zhou Zeyang
Published: January 2025

Vairimorpha (Nosema) ceranae is a pathogen that affects Apis mellifera and Apis ceranae Fabricius, capable of spreading within and between honeybee colonies. The spore wall of microsporidia is the initial structure to contact the host cell directly, which may play a crucial role in the infection process. Currently, several spore wall proteins have been identified in microsporidia, but only two spore wall proteins from V. ceranae have been characterized. Here, we report the expression and identification of a novel spore wall protein, NcSWP8, with a molecular mass of 21.37 kDa in V. ceranae. Subcellular localization analysis revealed that NcSWP8 was localized on the spore wall of V. ceranae. Co-immunoprecipitation and Far-Western blotting experiments demonstrated that NcSWP8 could stably interact with polar tube proteins, NcPTP2 and NcPTP3. The antibody blocking assay significantly decreased their infection rate, indicating that NcSWP8 played a significant role in the process of V. ceranae infection. These results together suggested that NcSWP8 was a new spore wall protein localized to the spore wall and interacted with the polar tube proteins, playing a crucial role in supporting the formation of the spore wall and potentially affecting the process of infection of V. ceranae.
In Silico Exploration of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec (SCCmec) Evolution Based on Phylogenetic Relationship of ccrAB/C
Authors: Wang Huawei , He Jinxing
Published: January 2025

As the mobile cassette carrier of the methicillin resistance gene mecA that is transported across staphylococci species, the evolution and origin of Staphylococcal Cassette Chromosome mec (SCCmec)—and in particular, the composition of mecA and SCCmec—have been extensively discussed in the scientific literature; however, information regarding its dissemination across geographical limits and evolution over decades remains limited. In addition, whole-genome sequencing-based macro-analysis was unable to provide sufficiently detailed evolutionary information on SCCmec. Herein, the cassette chromosome recombinase genes ccrAB/C, as essential components of SCCmec, were employed to explore the evolution of SCCmec. This work established the basic taxonomy of 33 staphylococci species. The CUB of mecA, ccrAB/C of 12 SCCmec types and core genome of 33 staphylococci species were subsequently compared; the phylogenetic relationship of ccrAB/C was observed via SCCmec typing on a temporal and geographical scale; and the duplicate appearance of ccrAB/C was illustrated by comparing SCCmec compositions. The results highlighted a deviation in the CUB of mecA and ccrAB/C, which evidenced their exogenous characteristics to staphylococci, and provided theological support for the phylogenetic analysis of ccrAB/C as representative of SCCmec. Importantly, the phylogenetic relationship of ccrAB/C did not exhibit centralization over time; instead, similarly to mecA, ccrAB/C with similar identities had close clades across decades and geographical limits and different SCCmec types, which enabled us to discriminate SCCmec based on the sequence identity of ccrAB/C. In addition, the duplicate appearance of ccrAB/C and fixed composition of the ccrAB/C complex among different strains were indicative of more complicated transmission mechanisms than targeting direct repeats of SCCmec.
Changes in the Content of Dietary Fiber, Flavonoids, and Phenolic Acids in the Morphological Parts of Fagopyrum tataricum (L.) Gaertn Under Drought Stress
Authors: Dziedzic Krzysztof , Ariyarathna Pathumi , Szwengiel Artur , Hęś Marzanna , Ratajczak Karolina , Górecka Danuta , Sulewska Hanna , Walkowiak Jarosław
Published: January 2025

Background: Tartary buckwheat is a plant recognized for its resistance to various environmental stresses. Due to its valuable source of phenolic compounds, Fagopyrum tataricum is also characterized as a medicinal plant; therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the drought stress for the levels of phenolic compounds in the morphological parts of the plant. Methods: This experiment was conducted in 7 L pots under laboratory conditions. Phenolic compounds were identified using a UHPLC–MS chromatography system. Antioxidant activity was assessed using well-known methods, including the DPPH scavenging activity and ferrous ion chelating activity. Results: In Tartary buckwheat leaves, stems, seeds, and husks, 57 phenolic compounds were identified, with a predominance of quercetin 3-rutinoside, quercetin, kaempferol-3-rutinoside, kaempferol, and derivatives of coumaric acid. It was observed that the Tartary buckwheat samples subjected to drought stress exhibited a slight decrease in the majority of individual phenolic compounds. Conclusions: The measurement of biological parameters indicated that plant regeneration after drought stress demonstrated a rapid recovery, which can be a positive response to the progression of climate changes.
Computational Chemistry Study of pH-Responsive Fluorescent Probes and Development of Supporting Software
Authors: Zhu Ximeng , Wei Yongchun , Liu Xiaogang
Published: January 2025

This study employs quantum chemical computational methods to predict the spectroscopic properties of fluorescent probes 2,6-bis(2-benzimidazolyl)pyridine (BBP) and (E)-3-(2-(1H-benzo[d]imidazol-2-yl)vinyl)-9-(2-(2-methoxyethoxy)ethyl)-9H-carbazole (BIMC). Using time-dependent density functional theory (TDDFT), we successfully predicted the fluorescence emission wavelengths of BBP under various protonation states, achieving an average deviation of 6.0% from experimental excitation energies. Molecular dynamics simulations elucidated the microscopic mechanism underlying BBP’s fluorescence quenching under acidic conditions. The spectroscopic predictions for BIMC were performed using the STEOM-DLPNO-CCSD method, yielding an average deviation of merely 0.57% from experimental values. Based on Einstein’s spontaneous emission formula and empirical internal conversion rate formulas, we calculated fluorescence quantum yields for spectral intensity calibration, enabling the accurate prediction of experimental spectra. To streamline the computational workflow, we developed and open-sourced the EasySpecCalc software v0.0.1 on GitHub, aiming to facilitate the design and development of fluorescent probes.
Pesticides in Honeybee Products—Determination of Pesticides in Bee Pollen, Propolis, and Royal Jelly from Polish Apiary
Authors: Swiatly-Blaszkiewicz Agata , Klupczynska-Gabryszak Agnieszka , Matuszewska-Mach Eliza , Matysiak Joanna , Attard Everaldo , Kowalczyk Dariusz , Adamkiewicz Aleksandra , Kupcewicz Bogumiła , Matysiak Jan
Published: January 2025

The bioaccumulation of pesticides in honeybee products (HBPs) should be studied for a number of reasons. The presence of pesticides in HBPs can provide new data on the risk related to the use of pesticides and their role in bee colony losses. Moreover, the degree of contamination of HBPs can lower their quality, weaken their beneficial properties, and, in consequence, may endanger human health. The aim of this study was to quantify a broad range of pesticide residues in three different HBPs—bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly. Samples were collected in the years 2017–2019 from the apiary in west-central Poland. Bee products were analyzed for the presence of over 550 pesticides using the QuEChERS (Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe) method. Twenty-nine of the contaminants were quantified at least in one of the samples. Nine of them exceeded the maximum residue levels for honey. It should be noted that any dose of pesticides can cause a health hazard due to toxicity, since these substances may act synergistically. This current study revealed the high need for the pesticide monitoring of HBPs and proved that there is a need to expand the European Union Pesticides Database to include more HBPs.
Histology Assessment of Chitosan–Polyvinyl Alcohol Scaffolds Incorporated with CaO Nanoparticles
Authors: Grande-Tovar Carlos David , Castro Castro Jorge Ivan , Barba-Rosado Lemy Vanessa , Zapata Paula A. , Insuasty Daniel , Valencia-Llano Carlos-Humberto
Published: January 2025

Scaffolds for regenerative therapy can be made from natural or synthetic polymers, each offering distinct benefits. Natural biopolymers like chitosan (CS) are biocompatible and biodegradable, supporting cell interactions, but lack mechanical strength. Synthetic polymers like polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) provide superior mechanical strength and cost efficiency but are not biodegradable or supportive of cell adhesion. Combining these polymers optimizes their advantages while adding metal oxide nanoparticles like calcium oxide (CaO NPs) enhances antimicrobial properties by damaging bacterial membranes. In this study, we obtained the formation of CaO NPs by calcinating eggshells, which were mixed in a polymeric network of CS and PVA to obtain four different membrane formulations for subdermal tissue regeneration. The spherical nanoparticles measured 13.43 ± 0.46 nm in size. Their incorporation into the membranes broadened the hydroxyl bands in the Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) analysis at 3331 cm⁻1. X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis showed changes in the crystalline structure, with new diffraction peaks at 2θ values of 7.2° for formulations F2, F3, and F4, likely due to the increased amorphous nature and concentration of CaO NPs. Additionally, higher CaO NPs concentrations led to a reduction in thermal properties and crystallinity. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed a heterogeneous morphology with needle-like structures on the surface, resulting from the uniform dispersion of CaO NPs among the polymer chains and the solvent evaporation process. A histological examination of the implanted membranes after 60 days indicated their biocompatibility and biodegradability, facilitated by incorporating CaO NPs. During the degradation process, the material fragmented and was absorbed by inflammatory cells, which promoted the proliferation of collagen fibers and blood vessels. These findings highlight the potential of incorporating CaO NPs in soft tissue regeneration scaffolds.
Cross-Regional Elemental Comparison of Mussels Using Total Reflection X-Ray Fluorescence (TXRF)
Authors: Lazăr Nina-Nicoleta , Simionov Ira-Adeline , Călmuc Mădălina , Călmuc Valentina-Andreea , Iticescu Cătălina , Georgescu Puiu-Lucian , Timofti Mihaela , Drăgan Silvia
Published: January 2025

This study evaluates the effectiveness of Total Reflection X-ray Fluorescence for multi-element analysis in mussels, focusing on sensitivity, precision, and detection limits. Additionally, it offers a cross-regional comparison of elemental composition in mussels from aquaculture farms in Italy, Spain, and Chile. TXRF, using suspensions of mussel samples, proved effective in detecting minor and trace elements, with recovery rates over 80% for Fe, Cu, Zn, As, and Sr. The research offers a chemical element comparison of Mytilus galloprovincialis and Mytilus chilensis mussels, revealing significant variation based on geographic origin. Correlation matrices demonstrated variable associations between elements, indicating that regional environmental conditions influence bioaccumulation. These findings deepen our understanding of how mussels accumulate elements in different environments. However, further research is needed to develop comprehensive elemental databases and to account for seasonal and temporal variations in mussels’ elemental composition. This study may bring insight for food safety and public health monitoring.
Interrelation Between BMI, Dietary Habits, Self-Rated Health, and Body Image Perception Among Korean Adolescents: The Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-Based Survey (2022)
Authors: Oh Jeongha , Mun Woo-Lim , Lee Ye-Eun , Roh Su-Yeon , Kim Geunkook
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Adolescent obesity is highly likely to lead to adult obesity and is associated with dietary habits, subjective health, and body image perception. This study aimed to analyze the relationships between BMI, dietary habits, subjective health perception, and body image perception among Korean adolescents using data from the 18th Korea Youth Risk Behavior Survey conducted in 2022 to explore strategies for reducing adolescent obesity rates. Methods: Data from 50,427 participants were analyzed, including BMI, seven lifestyle factors (intake frequencies of water, milk, fruit, soft drinks, vegetables, breakfast, and late-night snacks), and responses to one item each for subjective health perception and body image perception. Results: Higher intake frequencies of breakfast, fruits, soft drinks, and late-night snacks were associated with lower BMI (p < 0.001). However, among high school students, those with lower water and breakfast intake but higher soft drink and late-night snack intake exhibited an increasing trend in BMI. Subjective health perception and body image perception were interrelated, with subjective health perception influencing body image perception (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Addressing nutritional issues within schools, including improving school meals, regulating accessible products, and providing nutritional intake guidelines, is essential. Additionally, developing tailored health education programs to promote healthy body image perceptions is necessary. This study can serve as a foundational resource for analyzing adolescent health and developing strategies to improve health behaviors in changing environments.
Impact of Early Childhood Malnutrition on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors in Young Adults from Marginalized Areas of Chiapas, Mexico
Authors: Higuera-Domínguez Fátima , Ochoa-Díaz-López Héctor , Irecta-Nájera César Antonio , Núñez-Ortega Pilar E. , Castro-Quezada Itandehui , García-Miranda Rosario , Solís-Hernández Roberto , García-Parra Esmeralda , Ruiz-López María Dolores
Published: January 2025

The presence of malnutrition in early life is a determining factor in the onset of metabolic alterations and chronic diseases in adults. Therefore, the objective of this study was to determine the impact of malnutrition in early childhood with the presence of cardiometabolic risk factors in adulthood in marginalized populations from Chiapas, Mexico. The present investigation was based on a prospective cohort study that began in 2002, with young adults aged 18 to 25 years belonging to De Los Bosques region in Chiapas, Mexico. Sociodemographic, anthropometric, clinical and biochemical data were obtained in adulthood. Binary logistic regression models with 95% confidence intervals were fitted to assess the association between nutritional status in childhood (≤5 years of age) and cardiometabolic risk in adulthood. Individuals with overweight/obesity in childhood were more likely to have overweight/obesity (OR = 2.65, 95% CI: 1.09–6.45), high waist circumference (3.78, 95% CI: 1.55–9.24), high waist to height ratio (OR = 5.38, CI 95%: 1.60–18.10), elevated total cholesterol (OR = 3.95, 95% CI: 1.36–11.43) and metabolic syndrome (OR = 4.71, 95% CI: 1.49–14.90) in adulthood. In conclusion, malnutrition presented in early childhood increased the probability of developing cardiometabolic alterations in young adults from southern Mexico.
Neonatal Circulating Amino Acids and Lipid Metabolites Mediate the Association of Maternal Gestational Diabetes Mellitus with Offspring Neurodevelopment at 1 Year
Authors: Zhou Yueqin , Chen Xiaoyan , Li Tianze , Gao Pingming , Huang Saijun , Wang Xiaotong , Lin Zongyu , Huang Fenglian , Zhu Lewei , Lu Yeling , Zhu Yanna
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: We aimed to identify neonatal circulating metabolic alterations associated with maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to explore whether these altered metabolites could mediate the association of GDM with offspring neurodevelopment. Additionally, we investigated whether neonatal circulating metabolites could improve the prediction of offspring neurodevelopmental disorders over traditional risk factors. Methods: The retrospective cohort study enrolled 1228 mother–child dyads in South China. GDM was diagnosed at 24–28 weeks of gestation. Neonatal circulating amino acids and lipid metabolites (carnitines) were measured from newborn heel blood 3–7 days postpartum. Offspring neurodevelopment was assessed at age 1 year using the Children Neuropsychological and Behavioral Examination Scale. Neurodevelopmental disorders were defined as developmental delay in any domain of the scale. Results: Twenty-one metabolites associated with GDM were identified, consisting of seven amino acids and fourteen carnitines. Among these metabolites, five (glycine, myristicylcarnitine, palmitoylcarnitine, octadecadienoylcarnitine, and 3-hydroxypalmitylcarnitine) mediated the negative association of GDM with offspring neurodevelopment at 1 year (mediation proportions: 3.91–10.66%). Furthermore, six metabolites (glycine, methionine, malonylcarnitine, isovalerylcarnitine, palmitoylcarnitine, and octadecadienoylcarnitine) significantly increased the predictive performance for offspring neurodevelopmental disorders at 1 year over five traditional risk factors including GDM, parity, infant sex, birth weight, and feeding patterns (area under curve: 0.762 vs. 0.718, p = 0.012). Conclusions: GDM was associated with a variety of amino acid and lipid metabolic alterations in neonatal circulation, among which certain metabolites mediated the association of GDM with adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring. Moreover, some neonatal circulating metabolites may serve as potential biomarkers that improved the prediction of offspring neurodevelopmental disorders over GDM and other traditional risk factors.
Beyond BMI: Exploring Adolescent Lifestyle and Health Behaviours in Transylvania, Romania
Authors: Roșioară Alexandra-Ioana , Năsui Bogdana Adriana , Ciuciuc Nina , Sîrbu Dana Manuela , Curșeu Daniela , Vesa Ștefan Cristian , Popescu Codruța Alina , Bleza Andreea , Popa Monica
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to investigate the lifestyle and the behavioral factors that influence the nutritional status of adolescents from Transylvania, Romania. Methods: The Global School-Based Student Health Survey (GSHS) was used to collect data from 900 adolescents between 11 and 18 years old from the Transylvania region, Romania. This study assessed nutritional status by calculating BMI indicators adjusted to Z-Score, cut-off points according to the World Health Organization (WHO), using self-reported weight and height; perceived health status; food vulnerability; physical activity; addictive behaviors (cigarette, alcohol and drug consumption); number of hours spent in front of the computer/phone; hand and oral hygiene; sitting time/day; and sleep. Multivariate logistic regression was used to establish the lifestyle factors that influenced nutritional status. Results: The results showed that 8.7% (n = 78) of girls and 15.2% (n = 137) boys were overweight and obese. In total, 75% of the respondents were engaged in sedentary behaviors, and 65.8% (n = 592) had more than 2 h/day of screen exposure, considering that 98.7% of the study population had a mobile phone. The Romanian adolescents had poor dietary behaviors: over 80% of them did not meet the recommended amount of vegetable and fruit intake per day. Increased BMI was associated with higher-strength physical exercise and with being a boy. Conclusions: While some positive trends are evident, such as good oral and hand hygiene and low prevalence of smoking and drug use, significant challenges remain in areas like nutrition, physical activity, alcohol consumption and screen time.