bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Health of Deaf Pre-Teens and Teenagers with Cochlear Implants and Maternal Psychological Features: A Pilot Study
Authors: Caragli Valeria , Camia Michela , Scorza Maristella , Genovese Elisabetta , Persico Antonio Maria , Benincasa Paola , Benassi Erika
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The psychological health of deaf children and adolescents with cochlear implants (CIs) appears to be related to the degree of auditory and linguistic recovery achieved, as well as contextual factors. Few studies have investigated the influence that maternal psychological characteristics and resources may have in supporting the mental health of these children and adolescents. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the psychological well-being of pre-teens/teenagers with CIs and the mental health of their mothers. The secondary aim was to analyze which maternal characteristics (anxiety, depression, resilience, and time spent sharing emotions) were most related to the psychological health of the pre-teen/teenager. Methods: A group of 15 pre-teens/teenagers with CIs and 27 hearing peers and their mothers participated in the study. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, the Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale, the Beck Depression Inventory II, the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, and an additional ad hoc question quantifying the time that the mothers dedicate to conversing with their sons/daughters about the emotions were administered to the included subjects. Results: No significant differences between the two groups of pre-teens/teenagers emerged; however, a great percentage of pre-teens/teenagers with CIs appeared at higher risk for developing psychopathology. The resilience scores for both groups of mothers were lower than anticipated and related to the psychological health of pre-teens/teenagers. Conclusions: These results underscore the need for targeted psychological support alongside auditory rehabilitation and suggest avenues for enhancing family-centered care in this clinical population.
Lacquer in the Americas: Building Bridges
Authors: Burgio Lucia , Melchar Dana , Katz Monica
Published: February 2025

This Special Issue brings the Indigenous American lacquer community together, building bridges and overcoming the existing geographical and language obstacles. With dual-language (English and Spanish) articles focusing on barniz de Pasto and mopa mopa, Mexican lacquer (or maque) and cumatê, this collection includes contributions covering a number of disciplines. This volume is a ‘go-to’ research resource encompassing scientific and historical reviews, case studies, articles focusing on sociological and anthropological perspectives, and on cross-cultural contact and exchanges between Asia, Europe and the ‘New World’. The approach used to compile this Special Issue goes beyond European and North American perspectives, and includes voices that represent the genesis and context of Indigenous American lacquer objects more faithfully and objectively.
A Systems Thinking Approach to the Development of Historic Building Information Modelling: Part 2—Definition of Requirements
Authors: Lovell Lucy J. , Davies Richard J. , Hunt Dexter V. L.
Published: February 2025

Historic Building Information Modelling (HBIM) is the application of BIM, a digital information management and 3D modelling technique, to cultural heritage (CH) assets. It will assist with the ongoing sustainable management of CH in line with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (i.e., SDG 11 and SDG 13) by providing an enduring record of asset information and enabling the energy-efficient use and adaption of assets. However, the application of HBIM is currently limited by a lack of defined end-user requirements and standard methodology in its application. This paper is the second piece in a series of works where the authors adopted a systems thinking approach, utilising both the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) and hard systems engineering (SE), for the development of HBIM. This paper presents the results of an extensive survey undertaken with the UK Heritage Community. It validates forty-one previously proposed information requirements, identifies a further twenty new information requirements for HBIM, and utilises the SE process to define thirty-three system requirements for HBIM according to the end user.
Imported Typhoid Fever in Romania Between 2010 and 2024
Authors: Lazar Dragos Stefan , Gherlan George Sebastian , Florescu Simin Aysel , Popescu Corneliu Petru , Nica Maria
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Although a “forgotten” disease in developed countries, typhoid fever remains a significant global health problem, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and overcrowding. Despite medical advances, this systemic bacterial infection, caused by Salmonella Typhi, continues to affect millions worldwide. Accurate diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial to prevent severe complications and mortality. Even though antibiotic therapy is effective, the emergence of drug-resistant strains is a growing challenge. Methods: We present a series of cases encountered in a tertiary infectious disease hospital in Romania over 15 years. Results: The hospitalised patients were mainly from Sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian subcontinent; the median time between the onset of the first symptoms and hospital admission was 15 days. The symptoms encountered along with fever were headache, chills, cough, diarrhoea and tachycardia, an unusual feature in the clinical picture of this disease. Aneosinophilia (the absence of peripheral eosinophilic granulocytes) was the most frequently encountered laboratory finding, followed by increased serum transaminases and inflammatory syndrome. Conclusions: S. Typhi was generally identified from blood culture, demonstrating, except in one case, resistance to ciprofloxacin and, in several cases, multi-drug resistance (MDR). In this series of cases, all strains were sensitive to ceftriaxone.
Practical and Effective Mentorship Strategies for Caregivers of Children with Chronic Conditions: A Scoping Review
Authors: Duerksen LaDawn N. , Janse van Rensburg Chloé , Costello Carrie , Golding Michael A. , Lê Mê-Linh , Woods Maya , Kelso Sarah , Bannister Lizabeth , Protudjer Jennifer L. P.
Published: February 2025

Caregivers of children with chronic conditions face daily challenges and a lower quality of life, which may be improved through peer support. This scoping review explored the literature on formal caregiver-to-caregiver mentorship programs, identifying strategies to inform future programs. Using Arskey and O’Malley’s framework, we searched five databases for peer-reviewed literature on caregiver-to-caregiver mentorship programs for adult caregivers caring for children (≤18 years) with chronic conditions. Thematic analysis was performed on relevant articles. Of the 10 064 search hits, 109 were included after full-text screening. Theme 1, “Mentorship adds to medical support”, reflected how mentorship can complement medical care provided by healthcare teams. Theme 2, “Successful mentorship requires the right mentors”, highlighted the qualities of mentors crucial for effective mentorship, mentor-matching practices, and training areas for mentors. Theme 3, “Mentorship programs should balance structure and flexibility”, emphasized the importance of allowing for flexibility to accommodate diverse family needs. Theme 4, “Mentorship programs face common challenges”, summarized the challenges frequently faced when implementing mentorship programs. The study findings suggest that the success of mentorship programs hinge on factors including a flexible program structure, knowledgeable and dedicated mentors, and an infrastructure in place for supporting both the mentors and the financial needs of the program.
Point-of-Care Diagnostic Test for Rapid Detection of Infectious Laryngotracheitis Virus by Loop-Mediated Isothermal Amplification and Nanoprobes
Authors: Cea-Callejo Pablo , Trenado Claudia , El Mansouri Elías , Gomez-Lucia Esperanza , Doménech Ana , Biarnés Mar , Cuenca J. Marco , Sánchez-Llatas Christian J. , Madrid Ricardo , Benítez Laura
Published: February 2025

Infectious laryngotracheitis virus (ILTV), a DNA virus classified as Gallid alphaherpesvirus 1, causes a highly contagious respiratory disease in chickens, leading to significant economic losses and health risks for the poultry industry. The rapid detection of ILTV is essential to control its spread and prevent outbreaks. Traditional diagnostic methods like PCR are costly, require specialized personnel, and delay response efforts. To address this, we developed a point-of-care diagnostic test combining loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) with DNA nanoprobes on respiratory swabs. LAMP targets the ILTV-glycoprotein E (gE) gene, enabling rapid nucleic acid amplification at 65 °C without extraction, making it suitable for on-site detection. DNA nanoprobes provide a colorimetric readout visible to the naked eye. Gold nanoparticles drive this readout, as their red color, based on localized surface plasmon resonance, persists in the presence of ILTV DNA through DNA-DNA hybridization, ensuring reliable detection. The assay achieved 100% sensitivity and specificity for ILTV-gE, with a detection limit of 200 copies per reaction, allowing for the early identification of infections. The results are available within 45 min, enabling prompt measures to control ILTV spread. Cost-effective and user-friendly, this method enhances disease management and biosecurity in poultry farms.
Untangling the Role of MYC in Sarcomas and Its Potential as a Promising Therapeutic Target
Authors: Sias Fabio , Zoroddu Stefano , Migheli Rossana , Bagella Luigi
Published: February 2025

MYC plays a pivotal role in the biology of various sarcoma subtypes, acting as a key regulator of tumor growth, proliferation, and metabolic reprogramming. This oncogene is frequently dysregulated across different sarcomas, where its expression is closely intertwined with the molecular features unique to each subtype. MYC interacts with critical pathways such as cell cycle regulation, apoptosis, and angiogenesis, amplifying tumor aggressiveness and resistance to standard therapies. Furthermore, MYC influences the tumor microenvironment by modulating cell–extracellular matrix interactions and immune evasion mechanisms, further complicating therapeutic management. Despite its well-established centrality in sarcoma pathogenesis, targeting MYC directly remains challenging due to its “undruggable” protein structure. However, emerging therapeutic strategies, including indirect MYC inhibition via epigenetic modulators, transcriptional machinery disruptors, and metabolic pathway inhibitors, offer new hope for sarcoma treatment. This review underscores the importance of understanding the intricate roles of MYC across sarcoma subtypes to guide the development of effective targeted therapies. Given MYC’s central role in tumorigenesis and progression, innovative approaches aiming at MYC inhibition could transform the therapeutic landscape for sarcoma patients, providing a much-needed avenue to overcome therapeutic resistance and improve clinical outcomes.
Rare Earth Element Extraction from Ionic Rare Earth Ores by Two Typical Acidogenic Microorganisms, Aspergillus niger and Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans
Authors: Wang Mengyuan , Li Jingna , Liu Hongchang , Huang Shiyun , Liu Xiaoyan , Liu Yang , Awais Muhammad , Wang Jun
Published: February 2025

Ionic rare earth ore (IREO) has a high abundance of medium and heavy rare earth elements (REEs), making it a vital strategic resource for China. In this work, two typical microorganisms, Aspergillus niger and Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans, were used to study the interaction mechanism during the bioleaching of IREO under acidic conditions. The results revealed some differences in the interaction and leaching effects of A. niger and A. ferrooxidans on ionic rare earth minerals. A. niger mainly forms rare earth complexes with rare earth ions in IREO by secreting metabolites such as organic acids, thereby promoting the release of REEs, and it has a strong adsorption capacity for Yb. A. ferrooxidans promotes the release of REEs from rare earth minerals, primarily through iron–sulfur oxidation. The differential expression of metabolic genes (e.g., gpmL, FabF, FASN) associated with major metabolite secretion indicates their correlation with the leaching process. The above results reveal the role of the typical acid-producing microorganisms A. niger and A. ferrooxidans and their metabolites in the leaching of IREO, which is valuable for understanding the interaction mechanisms between microorganisms and IREO under acidic conditions.
Synthesis, Physicochemical Properties and Anti-Fungal Activities of New Meso-Arylporphyrins
Authors: Mkacher Hayfa , Chaâbane-Banaoues Raja , Hrichi Soukaina , Arnoux Philippe , Babba Hamouda , Frochot Céline , Nasri Habib , Acherar Samir
Published: February 2025

In this work, we describe the synthesis of three new meso-arylporphyrins, named meso-tetrakis [4-(nicotinoyloxy)phenyl] porphyrin (H2TNPP), meso-tetrakis [4-(picolinoyloxy)phenyl] porphyrin (H2TPPP), and meso-tetrakis [4-(isonicotinoyloxy) phenyl] porphyrin (H2TIPP). These new synthesized meso-arylporphyrins are characterized using spectroscopic analysis: Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) and One-dimensional Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (1D NMR), and mass spectrometry (MS). The photophysical studies (UV–visible absorption, singlet oxygen (1O2) luminescence, and fluorescence emissions) demonstrate their potential uses as photosensitizers (PSs) in photodynamic therapy (PDT) applications. An in vitro investigation of the anti-fungal activity of H2TNPP, H2TPPP, and H2TIPP against Candida (C.) species (C. albicans, C. glabrata, and C. tropicalis) reveals that their minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values ranged from 1.25 to 5 mg/mL. In addition, their in vitro anti-fungal susceptibilities against three dermatophyte clinical isolates (Trichophyton rubrum, Microsporum canis, and Trichophyton mentagrophytes) are also evaluated and they demonstrate good anti-fungal activities. A molecular docking study of these meso-arylporphyrins as anti-fungal agents against C. tropicalis extracellular aspartic proteinases, Protein data Bank in Europe (PDBe code: 1J71) and Trichophyton rubrum Sialidases (PDBe code: 7P1D) underlines the possible interactions of H2TNPP, H2TPPP, and H2TIPP with the key amino acid residues of these fungal target proteins.
Candida utilis Ameliorates Dextran Sulfate Sodium-Induced Colitis in Mice via NF-κB/MAPK Suppression and Gut Microbiota Modulation
Authors: Zang Rongxin , Liu Zhouliang , Wu Huihao , Chen Wenyan , Zhou Rui , Yu Fazheng , Li Yaodong , Xu Hongwei
Published: February 2025

Candida utilis (CUM) possesses various biological effects, including anti-inflammatory, intestinal microbiota regulatory, and immunomodulatory activities. However, there has been little exploration regarding the effects of CUM on ulcerative colitis (UC). Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the beneficial effects of CUM on alleviating dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)-induced UC in mice and to explore the potential underlying mechanisms. Here, the effect of CUM on UC was analyzed using a DSS-induced colitis mouse model (n = 9), the results of which indicated a decrease in disease activity index (DAI) in DSS-induced UC mice. Furthermore, CUM alleviated colon shortening, minimized intestinal tissue damage, and preserved intestinal tight junction proteins (Claudin-3, Occludin, and ZO-1). CUM reduced the level of pro-inflammatory cytokines (IL-1β, IL-6, and TNF-α), inhibited the activation of the NF-ĸB, MAPK and PPARγ signaling pathways, and decreased the level of oxidative mediators (MPO, SOD and MDA) in the colon of UC mice. Additionally, it mitigated the dysbiosis of intestinal microbiota in UC mice by increasing the abundance of Prevotellaceae and Lactobacillus while decreasing the abundance of Bacteroidaceae and Enterobacteriaceae. CUM alleviated the decrease in short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) content in the colon of UC mice. The above results provide a scientific basis for CUM, as a natural supplement, to restore the balance of the gut inflammatory microbiota and promote gut health.
Correction: Chua et al. Intraperitoneally Delivered Umbilical Cord Lining Mesenchymal Stromal Cells Improve Survival and Kidney Function in Murine Lupus via Myeloid Pathway Targeting. Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2023, 24, 365
Authors: Chua Alvin Wen Choong , Guo Dianyang , Tan Jia Chi , Lim Frances Ting Wei , Ong Chee Tian , Masilamani Jeyakumar , Lim Tony Kiat Hon , Hwang William Ying Khee , Lim Ivor Jiun , Chen Jinmiao , Phan Toan Thang , Fan Xiubo
Published: February 2025

In the original publication, there was a mistake in Figure 2C as published [...]
Management of Bleeding, Thrombotic and Pregnancy-Related Complications in Women with Myeloproliferative Neoplasms: A Case-Based Review Focusing on Sex-Specific Challenges
Authors: Chiasakul Thita , Baker Ross I.
Published: February 2025

Myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) are a heterogeneous group of clonal hematopoietic disorders that pose unique challenges in women, particularly regarding thrombosis, bleeding, fertility, and pregnancy. Women with MPN exhibit distinct thrombotic and sometimes contradictory bleeding profiles, including a higher prevalence of unusual thrombosis such as cerebral and splanchnic vein thrombosis and increased risk of hemorrhage from anti-thrombotic medication, acquired von Willebrand syndrome and platelet dysfunction. Estrogen-containing contraceptives should generally be avoided due to thrombotic risk. Around 10–20% of newly diagnosed MPN cases are women of childbearing age and the number is increasing annually. MPN patients when compared to controls have a lower rate of live birth rate of 71% vs. 80% with a hazard ratio of 0.78 (95% CI: 0.68–0.90), and increased preterm birth (14% vs. 4%), low birth weight (<2500 g, 10% vs. 4%), and increased cesarean section rate (32% vs. 17%). Management of MPN-related pregnancy requires specific considerations regarding the prevention of thrombosis, bleeding, and pregnancy-related complications. Management strategies during pregnancy include low-dose aspirin and consideration of low-molecular-weight heparin and interferon. Despite these challenges, most women with MPN can achieve successful pregnancies with optimized care. In this case-based review, we present two cases that illustrate key aspects of managing MPN in women, summarize the current literature, and propose a diagnostic and management framework tailored to these complexities.
Blood Plasma, Fibrinogen or Fibrin Biomaterial for the Manufacturing of Skin Tissue-Engineered Products and Other Dermatological Treatments: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sierra-Sánchez Álvaro , Sanabria-de la Torre Raquel , Ubago-Rodríguez Ana , Quiñones-Vico María I. , Montero-Vílchez Trinidad , Sánchez-Díaz Manuel , Arias-Santiago Salvador
Published: February 2025

The use of blood plasma, fibrinogen or fibrin, a natural biomaterial, has been widely studied for the development of different skin tissue-engineered products and other dermatological treatments. This systematic review reports the preclinical and clinical studies which use it alone or combined with other biomaterials and/or cells for the treatment of several dermatological conditions. Following the PRISMA 2020 Guidelines, 147 preclinical studies have revealed that the use of this biomaterial as a wound dressing or as a monolayer (one cell type) skin substitute are the preferred strategies, mainly for the treatment of excisional or surgical wounds. Moreover, blood plasma is mainly used alone although its combination with other biomaterials such as agarose, polyethylene glycol or collagen has also been reported to increase its wound healing potential. However, most of the 17 clinical reviewed evaluated its use for the treatment of severely burned patients as a wound dressing or bilayer (two cell types) skin substitute. Although the number of preclinical studies evaluating the use of blood plasma as a dermatological treatment has increased during the last fifteen years, this has not been correlated with a wide variety of clinical studies. Its safety and wound healing potential have been proved; however, the lack of a standard model and the presence of several approaches have meant that its translation to a clinical environment is still limited. A higher number of clinical studies should be carried out in the coming years to set a standard wound healing strategy for each dermatological disease.
Hydrodynamic Performance of High-Speed Craft: A CFD Study on Spray Rails
Authors: Sulman Muhammad , Mancini Simone , Niazmand Bilandi Rasul , Vitiello Luigi
Published: February 2025

In high-speed crafts, whisker spray increases viscous resistance by enlarging the wetted surface near the stagnation line. Spray rails (SRs) mitigate this issue by redirecting water flow, reducing the wetted surface, and lowering overall resistance. This study investigates the effect of SRs on the hydrodynamic performance of the C1 hull of Naples Systematic Series (NSS), focusing on the systematic variations in size, number, and placement. Numerical simulations, validated with towing tank results, were conducted using STAR CCM+ 2306. Mesh independence analysis was also performed to optimize computational efficiency. Key findings highlight the critical role of SR design in performance optimization. Wider SRs (e.g., three per side, 0.96% LWL) reduced resistance by up to 8.5% at high speeds (Fr∇= 3.26), but slightly increased the resistance at lower speeds (~2%) due to a larger wetted surface. Narrower SRs (e.g., three per side, 0.48% LWL) achieved resistance reductions of up to 4.6%, while configurations with multiple SRs (e.g., three per side, 0.72% LWL) outperformed single-rail designs by reducing resistance up to 4%. Placement near the chine proved more effective than near the keel, offering a 4% additional reduction in resistance. Additionally, SRs generated lift, raising the hull, and reducing immersion. The study underscores the importance of optimizing SR size, number, and placement to enhance hydrodynamic efficiency, particularly for high-speed operations.
Biology, Immunology, Epidemiology, and Therapy of Fungal Infections: A Themed Issue Dedicated to Professor David A. Stevens: Editorial
Authors: Sabino Raquel , Stevens David A.
Published: February 2025

The fungi command our attention, as there are >5 million species alive sharing our planet today, and they are plant pathogens resulting in up to 50% of crop losses in some countries [...]
Options for Forest Sector Participation in International Carbon Markets: Unlocking the Carbon Market Potential of Australia’s Forest Sector
Authors: Suitor Shaun , Hadley David , Ximenes Fabiano
Published: February 2025

Carbon markets have emerged as a central component of international climate change policies. Within these markets, forest carbon offset projects have become a key nature-based solution due to their low cost, large scale, and co-benefits. However, despite Australia’s vast forest estate, forest sector-specific offsets remain nascent in the Australian Carbon Market, the ACCU Scheme. Only 3.27% of Australian Carbon Credit Units have been issued to forest sector projects. This limited participation can be attributed to several constraints within the ACCU Scheme, principally the limited number of methods available for the forest sector to engage in. As a result, less than 1% of Australia’s current forest estate, both plantation and native forests, is considered eligible to participate in the ACCU Scheme. This limited eligibility is further compounded by the complexity and cost of participation, which act as significant barriers for forest projects within the ACCU Scheme. This paper explores the potential to expand forest sector involvement in the Australian carbon market through a comprehensive literature review of forest sector involvement in international carbon markets. The review found extensive participation by the forest sector in international carbon markets, with various methods available across 20 markets, including the largest voluntary and compliance markets. These methods cover plantation forests, native forests, the bioeconomy, and the built environment. Key results indicate that revising existing methods, developing new ones through the ACCU Scheme’s proponent-led method development process, and increasing participation in international voluntary methods could significantly expand the types of forest sector projects contributing to emissions reductions through carbon markets. Broader conclusions suggest that by embracing lessons from international practises and addressing current methodological constraints, Australia can realise this potential. Doing so would not only bolster the nation’s climate change mitigation efforts, but also unlock the co-benefits of biodiversity, water quality, soil productivity, and ecosystem resilience, ultimately contributing to a sustainable and resilient bioeconomy.
To Play or Not to Play: Mapping Unequal Provision of Children’s Playgrounds
Authors: Brindley Paul , Ma Yueshan , Wang Rui , Martin Michael , Woolley Helen
Published: February 2025

Children’s playgrounds are an important component providing opportunities for children’s play. Few studies, however, have explored the unequal geographic provision of these valuable spaces. This work addressed this research gap by identifying the key data and methods required to analyse children’s playground provision at both global and national geographic scales. The aims of the paper were twofold: It firstly explored the potential for mapping children’s playground provision at a global scale and validated such an approach using finer spatial scales. Secondly, the unequal provision of playgrounds was investigated at a national scale in England, UK using open data sources. Relationships with the size of the settlement and deprivation were also explored. The work used a range of secondary datasets through applying quantitative GIS and statistical approaches. The results demonstrated that, due to data quality issues, a world approach to map playground provision was not currently viable. At a national scale, results highlighted substantial inequality in provision, with some settlements in England experiencing five times the number of children per playground, despite being broadly comparable in terms of population. Deprived settlements in England tended to have fewer, smaller, and further-away playgrounds. The patterns were most stark in the largest settlements. London, however, was consistently an exception to these patterns, where deprived areas tended to have more and closer playgrounds. Acknowledging the numerous competing different metrics to measure provision of children’s playgrounds, the research generated a framework for bringing together a wide range of interrelated data into a condensed form for comparison. Thus, the approach facilitated the identification of interventions within different contexts in order to reduce inequalities in playground provision and bolster children’s democratic right to the city for play.
Preschool Teachers for Multilingual Families
Authors: Protassova Ekaterina , Silkin Sergei
Published: February 2025

Successful interaction between family and preschool is crucial in the early stages of bilingual development. Traditionally, a Finnish–Russian preschool brings together children from Finnish-speaking, Russian-speaking, and bilingual families. Educators communicate with children and parents in different languages, using specific translanguaging strategies to develop both languages. The study explores how educators interact with parents and how children interact with each other without a common language. Reflective interviews with teachers explore various aspects of their professional activities, emphasizing the expert use of different languages to expand children’s language skills and foster appreciation. Teachers’ attitudes can shift upon reflection, underscoring the need for partnerships with parents. Additionally, the study analyzes educators’ opinions about play without a common language among children with diverse languages. The longitudinal case study within a bilingual Finnish–Russian preschool thematically groups answers from 18 interviews, focusing on the dynamic relationship between teachers and parents, crucial for creating a supportive learning environment for children’s holistic development. The results show that educators, when reflecting on their role in bilingual education, emphasize a wide range of positive examples of interactions with parents, from constructive professional relationships to long-lasting friendships. They believe that while they cannot replace family interactions, they can develop the child’s abilities within their group of peers. Specifically, play without a common language allows children to communicate with peers in different languages.
Eliminating Plastic Anisotropy of TiB-Reinforced Titanium Matrix Composite via Cross Rolling
Authors: Xia Kuangzhe , Chen Kening , He Junyang , Zhang Xiaoyong , Zhou Kechao
Published: February 2025

Anisotropy is one of the concerns of titanium matrix composites (TMCs) due to its impact on subsequent processing and safe serving. In this work, we demonstrate that simply by using cross-rolling (CR) rather than unidirectional rolling (UDR), significant plastic anisotropy can be removed and an excellent strength–ductility combination can be achieved in a new TiB-reinforced TMC (TiB-TMC). We attribute the occurrence of plastic anisotropy after UDR to be the strong rolling-induced orientation distribution of TiB whiskers parallel to the rolling direction (RD), while the elimination of anisotropy is therefore confirmed to be caused by the loss of such an orientation relationship. The underlying mechanism is revealed as the lower stress concentration along the lateral surface of the randomly distributed whiskers and the longer paths when cracks propagate in between each whisker, in the CR-processed TiB-TMC.
A Porosity Closure Model Under Hot Isostatic Pressing of an IN718 Alloy Manufactured by Powder Bed Fusion
Authors: Wang Xuming , Niu Liqun , Cheng Kaixiong , Wang Bingzheng , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2025

The low productivity and high cost of additive manufacturing techniques, such as powder bed fusion (PBF), limits its wide application in industry. A combined approach of hot isostatic pressing (HIP) and PBF was an effective means to solve this limitation. Nevertheless, there is currently a lack of a porosity closure model to design and optimize the HIP process parameters of PBF-manufactured components. The porosity closure condition of the PBF-manufactured component is deduced based on the additivity of logarithmic strain and the plastic equation of volume compressible material, and then a porosity closure model considering temperature and pressure is established and verified by molecular dynamics simulation. Subsequently, a HIP diagram of the PBF-manufactured IN718 is constructed. Four different initial relative densities of 0.956, 0.970, 0.984, and 0.996 of IN718 components are introduced by increasing the scanning speed of PBF. HIP post-treatment experiments of different relative density components are performed. The accuracy of the HIP diagram is verified by the relative density test and microstructure observation.
Multipurpose X-Ray Stage and Its Application for In Situ Poling Studies
Authors: Iacomini Antonio , Sanna Davide , Mureddu Marzia , Caggiu Laura , Cau Costantino , Enzo Stefano , Villalobos-Portillo Edgar Eduardo , Pardo Lorena , Garroni Sebastiano
Published: February 2025

A 3D-printable, ARDUINO-based multipurpose X-ray stage of compact dimensions enabling in situ electric field and temperature-dependent measurements is put into practice and tested here. It can be routinely applied in combination with a technique of structural characterization of materials. Using high-performance X-ray laboratory equipment, two investigations were conducted to illustrate the device’s performance. The lattice characteristics and microstructure evolution of piezoelectric ceramics of barium titanate, BaTiO3 (BT), and barium calcium zirconate titanate, with compositions of (Ba0.92Ca0.08) (Ti0.95Zr0.05)O3 (BC8TZ5), were studied as a function of the applied electric field and temperature. The X-ray stage is amenable as an off-the-shelf device for a diffraction line in a synchrotron. It provides valuable information for poling piezoceramics and subsequent optimization of their performance.
Damage Evolution and Lifetime Prediction of Cement Asphalt Mortar Under High-Speed Train Frequency and Temperature Gradient Load
Authors: Zhou Mingjie , Zhong Shenghua , Liu Yiping , Liu Zejia , Yang Bao , Jiang Zhenyu , Zhou Licheng , Tang Liqun
Published: February 2025

Severe damage to cement asphalt mortar (CA mortar) can compromise the stability and safety of high-speed railway operations due to various complex factors during service. The loads from high-speed trains and temperature gradients within the ballastless track structure are significant contributors to this damage. However, most previous studies have focused on laboratory tests or numerical simulations under simple loading conditions, while few have investigated the damage evolution of CA mortar when both train loads and temperature gradients are considered simultaneously. In this paper, a finite element model of the CRTS II ballast track and a high-speed railway train dynamics model based on the damage constitutive model of CA mortar was established. The damage evolution of CA mortar through long-term cyclic numerical simulations under the combined effects of train load and temperature gradient load were investigated. By integrating the maintenance criteria for high-speed railways, the lifetime of CA mortar using the criteria of crack length and off-seam width was predicted. In addition, the material and structural properties of CA mortar were also optimized, considering the relationship between its elastic modulus and density, to enhance its lifetime. The conclusions reached are more realistic. The results indicate that the combined load causes deformation in the ballast track structure, leading to gradual damage progression from the edge to the interior of the CA mortar layer. The lifetime of CA mortar is determined by the number of days it takes for the crack length to reach the maintenance criteria. The lifetime of CA mortar under different temperature gradients ranges from 1 to 2 years. Increasing the elastic modulus and thickness of the CA mortar layer improves its lifespan. An elastic modulus of 9000 MPa and a thickness of 50 mm for the CA mortar were recommended.
Dissimilar Welding of Magnesium Alloys and Aluminum Alloys by Explosive Welding
Authors: Mihara-Narita Mami , Asai Konosuke , Sato Hisashi , Watanabe Yoshimi , Nakatsugawa Isao , Saito Naobumi , Chino Yasumasa
Published: February 2025

Welding of dissimilar magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys is challenging due to the formation of interlayers composed of brittle intermetallic compounds (IMCs) at the bonding interface, which reduces the bonding strength. In our studies, we applied explosive welding to facilitate dissimilar welding of magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys. This method utilized a high-speed impact from an explosive to bond magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys in a short time, effectively suppressing the formation of the interlayer. Our research confirmed the presence of a thin interlayer of the γ-Mg17Al12 phase at the interface of the cladding plates. The alloy compositions of both magnesium alloys and aluminum alloys influenced the thickness of this interlayer. Furthermore, annealing of the cladding plates increased the thickness of the interlayer, resulting in the formation of the aluminum-rich β-Al3Mg2 phase on the aluminum alloy side after annealing at 473 K. The formation of the brittle β-Al3Mg2 phase led to crack initiation, which reduced the shear strength. In terms of corrosion resistance, the corrosion weight loss of the explosively welded cladding plates was slightly less than that of mechanically fastened samples. Therefore, it can be concluded that explosive welding is highly effective for bonding magnesium alloys to aluminum alloys.
Study of Internal Spatial Temperature Distribution of Lubricating Oil Based on Transmission Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Liangyu , Zou Run , Liu Yanzhe , Yao Shiliang , Su Tiexiong
Published: February 2025

The temperature of lubricating oil plays a pivotal role in determining the performance of engines and other machinery, underscoring the importance of studying its temperature distribution for optimizing engine efficiency. In this study, a custom experimental setup was developed to measure the transmittance of lubricating oil across a wavelength range of 380 nm to 1040 nm at various temperatures. A novel method was proposed to compute the temperature distribution along the light path using transmission spectra. By formulating a mathematical model that correlates the temperature distribution with light intensity, the optical characteristics of lubricating oil undergoing a phase change at a single interface in low-temperature environments were thoroughly investigated. A comparative analysis between the experimentally measured temperatures and those obtained from temperature sensors revealed that the temperature distribution trends predicted by the proposed method closely aligned with the experimental data, exhibiting an average deviation of only 2.87 °C. These results demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of the method, validating its potential for reliable temperature distribution estimation in lubricating oil.
Dual-Order Inventory Planning: A Novel Approach to Managing Seasonal Fluctuations in Fashion Retail
Authors: Mallidis Ioannis , Giannoudis Vasileios , Ayfantopoulou Georgia
Published: February 2025

We develop and employ a novel dual-order inventory planning model tailored to the inventory planning policy of a fashion retailer in the city of Thessaloniki, Greece. In our approach, the first order is placed at the beginning of the season, while the second order is placed if the stock level of a stock-keeping unit (SKU) falls below a threshold inventory level during the optimal review period. With this dual-order model, the retailer can capture random changes in consumer preferences during the season. The insights derived from implementing the developed methodology in a real-world case of a fashion retailer reveal that the dual-order model significantly mitigates the risks of overstock and stockouts by allowing dynamic adjustments to stock levels in response to actual sales trends and market changes. Moreover, a late ordering policy in week 19 of the season will result, on average, in a 7.9% reduction in total inventory planning costs compared to the costs associated with the different review periods examined.
Total Synthesis of the Marine Cyclic Depsipeptide Lagunamide D
Authors: Nan Huiru , Long Xiong-En , He Jianfei , Xing Hailiang , Cheng Min-Jing , Peng Jin-Bao , Ye Tao , Yan Jia-Lei , Liu Junyang
Published: February 2025

Lagunamide D is a structurally distinct 26-membered cytotoxic cyclic depsipeptide, originally isolated from a marine cyanobacterium. It exhibits potent antiproliferative activity in the low nanomolar range against A549 human lung adenocarcinoma cells and HCT116 colon cancer cells. A significant challenge associated with lagunamide D is its propensity for intramolecular acyl migration, which leads to the formation of a contracted 24-membered analog, lagunamide D′. This structural rearrangement complicates its isolation, characterization, and synthesis. In this study, the total synthesis of lagunamide D was achieved in a 14-step longest linear sequence, starting from the known intermediate 17, with an overall yield of 4.6%. The synthetic strategy involved several key transformations, including Ghosh’s TiCl4-promoted anti-aldol reaction, Corey–Bakshi–Shibata reduction (CBS reduction), cross-metathesis, Pinnick oxidation, and Yamaguchi esterification. Furthermore, this synthetic effort unambiguously confirmed the stereochemistry of the natural product.
Influence of a Very High-Molecular Weight Fucoidan from Laminaria hyperborea on Age-Related Macular Degeneration-Relevant Pathomechanisms in Ocular Cell Models
Authors: Dörschmann Philipp , Kopplin Georg , Thalenhorst Tabea , Seeba Charlotte , Ullah Sadia Fida , Srivastava Vaibhav , Roider Johann , Klettner Alexa
Published: February 2025

Fucoidans from Laminaria hyperborea (LH) can be antioxidative, antiangiogenic, and anti-inflammatory. In this study, a very high-molecular weight (3700 kDa) fucoidan from LH, FucBB04, was tested regarding its bioactivity in age-related macular degeneration (AMD) models in vitro. Primary retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) from pig eyes, human uveal melanoma cell line OMM-1, and RPE cell line ARPE-19 were used. Substituents of the extract were determined with chemical analysis. Cell viability was tested with tetrazolium assay (MTT), oxidative stress was induced by H2O2 or erastin, respectively. Secreted vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) was assessed with ELISA. Retinal pigment epithelium 65 kDa protein (RPE65) and protectin (CD59) protein expression were tested in Western blot. Cell barrier was assessed by measuring trans-epithelial electrical resistance (TEER), phagocytic ability by a fluorescence assay. Gene expression and secretion of interleukin 6 (IL-6) and interleukin 8 (IL-8) were tested in real-time PCR and ELISA. FucBB04 displayed no oxidative stress protective effects. Its effect on VEGF was inconsistent, with VEGF secretion reduced in primary RPE, but not in ARPE-19. On the other hand, Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and polyinosinic/polycytidylic acid (PIC)-induced IL-6 or IL-8 secretion was reduced by FucBB04, while complement inhibiting protein CD59 was not affected. In addition, FucBB04 did not influence the gene expression of IL-6 or IL-8. Visual cycle protein RPE65 expression, phagocytic ability, and barrier function were reduced by FucBB04. Very high-molecular weight fucoidan from LH shows bioactivities against AMD-related pathological pathways, but adverse effects on RPE function may limit its suitability as a therapeutic compound. Smaller high-molecular weight fucoidans are recommended for further research.
The Real-World Burden of Moderate-to-Severe Psoriasis in Patients Under Systemic Treatment from Baltic Countries: Data from the CRYSTAL Observational Study
Authors: Eisen Maigi , Hartmane Ilona , Kingo Külli , Mikazans Ingmars , Toomson Tiina , Toomela Karin , Valiukeviciene Skaidra
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Data on disease control, treatment, and quality of life (QoL) in patients with psoriasis from Baltic countries are lacking. In this study, we aimed to assess the disease control, treatment, and QoL of patients with psoriasis in countries from Central and Eastern Europe, and we report data for the Baltic countries. Materials and Methods: In a cross-sectional, international study (CRYSTAL), we retrospectively assessed the real-world disease severity and QoL in adult patients (18–75 years) from Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania with moderate-to-severe psoriasis receiving continuous systemic treatment ≥ 24 weeks. Analyses included 50 patients from each country and were descriptive. Results: The median disease duration was 15.2–19.9 years across the countries. Most patients (78.0% in Estonia, 100% in Latvia, and 68.0% in Lithuania) were receiving monotherapy with biological agents, mainly TNF inhibitors. An absolute PASI score ≤ 3 was achieved by 82.0%, 70.0%, and 64.0% of patients in the overall study population and 89.7%, 70.0%, and 61.8% of patients receiving biologic monotherapy in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania, respectively. Across the countries, impairments in QoL as expressed by a Dermatology Life Quality Index score > 5 were reported by 14.0–34.0% of patients, while 88.0–96.0% of patients were satisfied with their treatment. Conclusions: Although most patients showed low absolute PASI scores and satisfaction with their evolution after ≥24 weeks of systemic treatment, they still reported an impact on QoL. This finding underlines that further optimization of systemic treatment strategies is needed to improve outcomes in moderate-to-severe psoriasis in Baltic countries.
Evolution of β-Lactam Antibiotic Resistance in Proteus Species: From Extended-Spectrum and Plasmid-Mediated AmpC β-Lactamases to Carbapenemases
Authors: Bedenić Branka , Pospišil Mladen , Nađ Marina , Bandić Pavlović Daniela
Published: February 2025

The management of infectious diseases has proven to be a daunting task for clinicians worldwide, and the rapid development of antibiotic resistance among Gram-negative bacteria is making it even more challenging. The first-line therapy is empirical, and it most often comprises β-lactam antibiotics. Among Gram-negative bacteria, Proteus mirabilis, an important community and hospital pathogen associated primarily with urinary tract and wound infection, holds a special place. This review’s aim was to collate and examine recent studies investigating β-lactam resistance phenotypes and mechanisms of Proteus species and the global significance of its β-lactam resistance evolution. Moreover, the genetic background of resistance traits and the role of mobile genetic elements in the dissemination of resistance genes were evaluated. P. mirabilis as the dominant pathogen develops resistance to expanded-spectrum cephalosporins (ESC) by producing extended-spectrum β-lactamases (ESBL) and plasmid-mediated AmpC β-lactamases (p-AmpC). β-lactamase-mediated resistance to carbapenems in Enterobacterales, including Proteus spp., is mostly due to expression of carbapenemases of class A (KPC); class B (metallo-β-lactamases or MBLs of IMP, VIM, or NDM series); or class D or carbapenem-hydrolyzing oxacillinases (CHDL). Previously, a dominant ESBL type in P. mirabilis was TEM-52; yet, lately, it has been replaced by CTX-M variants, particularly CTX-M-14. ESC resistance can also be mediated by p-AmpC, with CMY-16 as the dominant variant. Carbapenem resistance in Proteus spp. is a challenge due to its intrinsic resistance to colistin and tigecyclin. The first carbapenemases reported belonged to class B, most frequently VIM-1 and NDM-5. In Europe, predominantly France and Belgium, a clonal lineage positive for OXA-23 CHDL spreads rapidly undetected, due to its low-level resistance to carbapenems. The amazing capacity of Proteus spp. to accumulate a plethora of various resistance traits is leading to multidrug or extensively drug-resistant phenotypes.
Alien Chromosome Serves as a Novel Platform for Multiple Gene Expression in Kluyveromyces marxianus
Authors: Lyu Yilin , Zhou Jungang , Yu Yao , Lu Hong
Published: February 2025

Kluyveromyces marxianus is an emerging yeast cell host for diverse products, but multiple-gene expression in K. marxianus faces challenges due to limited current knowledge of cis-regulatory elements and insertion loci. Our previous study transferred an alien Saccharomyces cerevisiae chromosome I (R1) into K. marxianus, resulting in the creation of the monochromosomal hybrid yeast KS-R1. All R1 genes were actively transcribed, providing a series of loci with varying transcriptional activities. Here, we explore the use of R1 as a novel platform for stable, multi-gene integration and expression. By deleting three essential K. marxianus genes while complementing their functions with orthologs on R1, we achieved stable propagation of R1 in the absence of selective pressure. We characterized several loci on R1 that exhibit stable transcriptional activities under various conditions. GFP inserted in place of genes at six such loci demonstrated varying expression levels. Strains with GFP at two loci exhibited significantly higher expression than those with GFP at a single locus. Furthermore, we replaced five R1 genes with disulfide bond formation genes from Pichia pastoris at distinct loci, resulting in the active expression of all five genes and significantly enhanced production of heterologous glucoamylases BadGLA and TeGlaA. Our findings demonstrate that alien chromosomes offer a stable and versatile platform for the coordinated expression of multiple heterologous genes, serving as valuable tools for metabolic engineering and synthetic biology.