bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employment and Its Determinants for Spinal Cord Injury Population in Romania
Authors: Lascu Camelia Florentina , Popa Daiana , Buhaș Camelia Liana , Voiţă-Mekereş Florica , Popa Florina Ligia , Teodorescu Matei , Căiță Georgiana Albina , Szilagyi Gheorghe , Schwarz-Madar Andrada Florina , Bodea Mirela Elena , Hozan Călin Tudor
Published: February 2025

This study investigates employment rates and their determinants among individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI) in Romania using data from the Romanian National Spinal Cord Injury Survey (RO-InSCI), part of the International Spinal Cord Injury (InSCI) Community Survey. The cross-sectional study included 215 adults with traumatic or non-traumatic SCI living in the community. Participants were recruited through rehabilitation hospitals and patient organizations. Employment status, demographic characteristics, and injury-related factors were assessed. The observed employment rate was 25.35%, with a 39.45% employment gap compared to the general population. Barriers to employment included health status, disability, inadequate transport, and insufficient access to infrastructure, particularly for those with traumatic SCI. Vocational rehabilitation participation was low (18.7%), despite a strong desire to return to work (82% for traumatic SCI, 61.1% for non-traumatic SCI). Before injury, participants were primarily employed in elementary occupations, with higher rates among those with paraplegia. The findings highlight the need for targeted interventions, inclusive labor market policies, and improved accessibility to vocational rehabilitation to support workforce reintegration and address the specific needs of individuals with SCI in Romania.
Long-Term Insomnia Treatment with Benzodiazepines and Alzheimer’s Disease: A Systematic Review
Authors: Trigo Filipa Sofia , Pinto Nuno Cardoso , Pato Maria Vaz
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia. Benzodiazepines are the most widely used pharmacological class in the treatment of insomnia and other sleep disorders. Some literature suggests that the chronic use of benzodiazepines is associated with the development of cognitive decline. This review aims to evaluate the use of benzodiazepines and its association with the development of Alzheimer’s disease. A systematic review of the literature was carried out using the MEDLINE and Embase databases. Protocols followed the PRISMA-P 2020 methodology, and, after the analysis of the included studies, a narrative synthesis of the results was carried out. Only two cohort studies were identified that met defined eligibility criteria. In the retrospective study, a significant risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease after treatment with benzodiazepines was found. In the prospective study, the prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease was not associated with treatment with benzodiazepines. Results suggest that only the largest study presented a significant risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease. Given the scarce scientific evidence found, it is concluded that further research on this topic is necessary.
Obesity and Discrimination in the Workplace: A Narrative Review and New Perspectives for Breaking out of the Negative Spiral
Authors: Kokubun Keisuke
Published: February 2025

It is widely known that obesity leads to various social or health problems. For example, obesity is known to not only lead to various diseases but also to reduce the performance of workers. However, there is no consensus on how to deal with obesity. Therefore, in this review paper, we narratively reviewed previous research on obesity and discrimination in the workplace and presented a perspective that supports the rationality of supporting obese people to break out of the vicious cycle, not only for the obese people themselves but also for society. Specifically, we discussed how the decline in performance due to obesity leads to worsening working conditions which further reduce performance, and how once people fall into this vicious cycle, it is difficult to break out of it because it is reinforced by stigma and there is a certain rationality in employment discrimination at the organizational level, and therefore it is possible that these people can be saved by local governments and countries taking the lead in forming a consensus on the social acceptance of obese people.
Surficial Sediment Distribution in a Complex Marine Setting—The Example of Coastal and Open Sea Areas of Evia Island, Central Aegean, Greece
Authors: Zananiri Irene , Vakalas Ioannis
Published: February 2025

This study examines sediment distribution patterns in the Aegean Sea, focusing on the western coast of Evia Island and the southern Evoikos and Petalioi Gulfs. A total of 200 granulometric data points were analyzed to evaluate textural characteristics, including mean grain size, sorting, and skewness. The findings reveal significant variation in mean grain size: finer sediments (ϕ = 5–8) dominate the northern Aegean near Skyros, while coarser sands (ϕ = 2–4) are prevalent in the South Evoikos and Petalioi gulfs. The coarsest materials (ϕ = 0–2) are found around Chalkis, with sorting generally poor except in those two areas. Negative skewness values in the northern part of the study area indicate a predominance of finer particles, while southern regions exhibit slightly positive skewness, suggesting a greater proportion of coarser grains. Complex net transport patterns between Evia and Skyros are influenced by north-northeast trending water currents from the northern Aegean, with fluvial influx observed in the southern Evia coastal area. Around Skyros, the interplay of water currents and prevailing north-northwest winds dictates the orientation of net transport vectors. In the Evoikos gulfs, sediment movement aligns with a general northward flow, featuring coarse sediments in the Petalioi Gulf and muddy deposits in the narrower northern segment, where minimal transport indicates stagnant conditions. Coarse-grained materials in North Evoikos are primarily influenced by strong tidal activity.
Novel Strategies for Preventing Fungal Infections—Outline
Authors: Agbadamashi Damilola J. , Price Claire L.
Published: February 2025

Fungal infections are a significant global health challenge, causing approximately 3.8 million deaths annually, with immunocompromised populations particularly at risk. Traditional antifungal therapies, including azoles, echinocandins, and polyenes, face limitations due to rising antifungal resistance, toxicity, and inadequate treatment options. This review explores innovative strategies for preventing and managing fungal infections, such as vaccines, antifungal peptides, nanotechnology, probiotics, and immunotherapy. Vaccines offer promising avenues for long-term protection, despite difficulties in their development due to fungal complexity and immune evasion mechanisms. Antifungal peptides provide a novel class of agents with broad-spectrum activity and reduced resistance risk, whilst nanotechnology enables targeted, effective drug delivery systems. Probiotics show potential in preventing fungal infections, particularly vulvovaginal candidiasis, by maintaining microbial balance. Immunotherapy leverages immune system modulation to enhance antifungal defenses, and omics technologies deliver comprehensive insights into fungal biology, paving the way for novel therapeutic and vaccine targets. While these approaches hold immense promise, challenges such as cost, accessibility, and translational barriers remain. A coordinated effort among researchers, clinicians, and policymakers is critical to advancing these strategies and addressing the global burden of fungal infections effectively.
Repurposing COVID-19 Compounds (via MMV COVID Box): Almitrine and Bortezomib Induce Programmed Cell Death in Trypanosoma cruzi
Authors: Bethencourt-Estrella Carlos J. , López-Arencibia Atteneri , Lorenzo-Morales Jacob , Piñero José E.
Published: February 2025

Chagas disease, caused by the protozoan Trypanosoma cruzi, affects millions globally, with limited treatment options available. Current therapies, such as benznidazole and nifurtimox, present challenges, including their toxicity, side effects, and inefficacy in the chronic phase. This study explores the potential of drug repurposing as a strategy to identify new treatments for T. cruzi, focusing on compounds from the Medicines for Malaria Venture (MMV) COVID Box. An initial screening of 160 compounds identified eight with trypanocidal activity, with almitrine and bortezomib showing the highest efficacy. Both compounds demonstrated significant activity against the epimastigote and amastigote stages of the parasite and showed no cytotoxicity in murine macrophage cells. Key features of programmed cell death (PCD), such as chromatin condensation, mitochondrial membrane potential disruption, and reactive oxygen species accumulation, were observed in T. cruzi treated with these compounds. The potential to induce controlled cell death of these two compounds in T. cruzi suggests they are promising candidates for further research. This study reinforces drug repurposing as a viable approach to discovering novel treatments for neglected tropical diseases like Chagas disease.
Antimicrobial Treatment Options for Multidrug Resistant Gram-Negative Pathogens in Bone and Joint Infections
Authors: Tsilika Maria , Ntziora Fotinie , Giannitsioti Efthymia
Published: February 2025

Multidrug (MDR) and extensive drug (XDR) resistance in Gram-negative bacteria (GNB) emerges worldwide. Although bone and joint infections are mostly caused by Gram-positive bacteria, mainly Staphylococci, MDR GNB substantially increase also as a complication of hospitalization and previous antibiotic administration. This narrative review analyzes the epidemiological trend, current experimental data, and clinical experience with available therapeutic options for the difficult to treat (DTR) GNB implicated in bone and joint infections with or without orthopedic implants. The radical debridement and removal of the implant is adequate therapy for most cases, along with prompt and prolonged combined antimicrobial treatment by older and novel antibiotics. Current research and clinical data suggest that fluoroquinolones well penetrate bone tissue and are associated with improved outcomes in DTR GNB; if not available, carbapenems can be used in cases of MDR GNB. For XDR GNB, colistin, fosfomycin, tigecycline, and novel β-lactam/β-lactamase inhibitors can be initiated as combination schemas in intravenous administration, along with local elution from impregnated spacers. However, current data are scarce and large multicenter studies are mandatory in the field.
Low Serum Methylglyoxal Levels Correlate with Psoriasis Severity and Inflammatory Response Indices
Authors: Damasiewicz-Bodzek Aleksandra , Nowak Agnieszka , Maciejczyk Maciej , Waligóra Sławomir , Przywara-Chowaniec Brygida
Published: February 2025

Psoriasis is a multifactorial inflammatory disease. Methylglyoxal (MG) is a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound responsible for dicarbonyl stress in some inflammatory conditions, and it may play a role in the etiopathogenesis of psoriasis. Methods: A total of 50 patients with psoriasis and 35 healthy individuals participated in this study. The following indices were assessed in patients: Body Surface Area (BSA), Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), and Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). MG concentration was evaluated in blood samples. The following inflammatory response indices were calculated: Systemic Inflammation Response Index (SIRI), Systemic Immuno-inflammation Index (SII), and Aggregate Index of Systemic Inflammation (AISI). Results: An analysis of the obtained data showed a statistically significant decrease in the mean serum MG concentration in patients with psoriasis when compared to the healthy individuals (1.19 ± 0.4 μg/mL vs. 1.75 ± 0.6 μg/mL; p = 0.000002). In the patients, MG concentration correlated negatively with psoriasis disease severity indicators (BSA and PASI), C-reactive protein (CRP) concentration, and inflammatory response indicators (SII and AISI). Conclusions: The decreased concentration of MG may be attributed to an increased accumulation of its derivatives (advanced glycation end-products) in the inflamed skin and/or scavenging by polyamines.
Evaluating Swellable Cross-Linked Biopolymer Impact on Ink Rheology and Mechanical Properties of Drug-Contained 3D-Printed Thin Film
Authors: Rony Farzana Khan , Appiah Jonathan , Alawbali Asmaa , Clay Distinee , Ilias Shamsuddin , Azad Mohammad A.
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Interest in 3D printing oral thin films (OTFs) has increased substantially. The challenge of 3D printing is film printability, which is strongly affected by the rheological properties of the ink and having suitable mechanical properties. This research assesses the suitability of sodium starch glycolate (SSG), a swellable cross-linked biopolymer, on ink rheology and the film’s mechanical properties. Methods: A water-based ink comprising sodium alginate (SA), the drug fenofibrate (FNB), SSG, glycerin, and polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was formulated, and its rheology was assessed through flow, amplitude sweeps, and thixotropy tests. Films (10 mm × 15 mm × 0.35 mm) were 3D-printed using a 410 µm nozzle, 50% infill density, 60 kPa pressure, and 10 mm/s speed, with mechanical properties (Young’s modulus, tensile strength, and elongation at break) analyzed using a TA-XT Plus C texture analyzer. Results: The rheology showed SSG-based ink has suitable properties (shear-thinning behavior, high viscosity, higher modulus, and quick recovery) for 3D printing. SSG enhanced the rheology (viscosity and modulus) of ink but not the mechanical properties of film. XRD and DSC confirmed preserved FNB crystallinity without polymorphic changes. SEM images showed surface morphology and particle distribution across the film. The film demonstrated a drug loading of 44.28% (RSD 5.62%) and a dissolution rate of ~77% within 30 min. Conclusions: SSG improves ink rheology, makes it compatible with 3D printing, and enhances drug dissolution (formulation F-5). Plasticizer glycerin is essential with SSG to achieve the film’s required mechanical properties. The study confirms SSG’s suitability for 3D printing of OTFs.
Characterization of a Topramezone-Resistant Rice Mutant TZR1: Insights into GST-Mediated Detoxification and Antioxidant Responses
Authors: Hu Shiyuan , Luo Kai , Tang Tao , Ma Guolan , Peng Yajun , Zhang Yuzhu , Liu Yang , Pan Lang , Li Sifu
Published: February 2025

Mutagenesis breeding, combined with the application of corresponding herbicides to develop herbicide-resistant rice germplasm, provides great promise for the management of weeds and weedy rice. In this study, a topramezone-resistant rice mutant, TZR1, was developed from the indica rice line Chuangyu 9H (CY9H) through radiation mutagenesis and topramezone selection. Dose–response curves revealed that the resistance index of TZR1 to topramezone was 1.94-fold compared to that of CY9H. The resistance mechanism of TZR1 was not due to target-site resistance. This resistance could be reversed by a specific inhibitor of glutathione S-transferase (GST). The activity of antioxidant enzymes was analyzed. SNPs and Indels were detected using whole-genome resequencing; differentially expressed genes were identified through RNA sequencing. Then, they underwent Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes enrichment analyses. Key candidate genes associated with topramezone resistance were validated via a real-time quantitative PCR assay. Five GST genes, two UDP-glycosyltransferase genes, and three ATP-binding cassette transporter genes were identified as potential contributors to topramezone detoxification in TZR1. Overall, these findings suggest that GST enzymes possibly play an important role in TZR1 resistance to topramezone. This study will provide valuable information for the scientific application of 4-hydroxyphenylpyruvate dioxygenase inhibitors in paddy fields in future.
Silver Nanoparticles Help Plants Grow, Alleviate Stresses, and Fight Against Pathogens
Authors: Alfosea-Simón Francisco Javier , Burgos Lorenzo , Alburquerque Nuria
Published: February 2025

The use of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) has gained importance in agriculture in recent years thanks to their unique characteristics, including their antimicrobial capacity and their ability to promote plant growth. Due to these attributes, AgNPs are considered a promising solution for the future of agriculture, offering significant potential to address the challenges the sector confronts currently. However, it is important to adjust the application conditions, depending on the target and the crop used, to improve AgNP treatment efficiency. This review compiles recent advances in the use of AgNPs for crop production, both in and ex vitro. AgNPs promote growth and alleviate biotic and abiotic stresses through different ex vitro application methods. They are also efficiently used in vitro to improve plant culture and pathogen elimination. In addition, the safety and toxicity associated with their use are discussed. AgNPs are a novel tool with great potential for the agricultural sector, but it is still necessary to continue researching the mechanisms of AgNP action in order to optimize their application in each specific case.
A Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici Effector with DPBB Domain Suppresses Wheat Defense
Authors: Asghar Raheel , Cheng Yu , Wu Nan , Akkaya Mahinur S.
Published: February 2025

Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) is a primary crop globally. Among the numerous pathogens affecting wheat production, Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici (Pst) is a significant biotic stress agent and poses a major threat to world food security by causing stripe rust or yellow rust disease. Understanding the molecular basis of plant–pathogen interactions is crucial for developing new means of disease management. It is well established that the effector proteins play a pivotal role in pathogenesis. Therefore, studying effector proteins has become an important area of research in plant biology. Our previous work identified differentially expressed candidate secretory effector proteins of stripe rust based on transcriptome sequencing data from susceptible wheat (Avocet S) and resistant wheat (Avocet YR10) infected with Pst. Among the secreted effector proteins, PSTG_14090 contained an ancient double-psi beta-barrel (DPBB) fold, which is conserved in the rare lipoprotein A (RlpA) superfamily. This study investigated the role of PSTG_14090 in plant immune responses, which encodes a protein, here referred to as Pst-DPBB, having 131 amino acids with a predicted signal peptide (SP) of 19 amino acids at the N-terminal end, and the DNA sequence of this effector is highly conserved among different stripe rust races. qRT-PCR analysis indicated that expression levels are upregulated during the early stages of infection. Subcellular localization studies in Nicotiana benthamiana leaves and wheat protoplasts revealed that it is distributed in the cytoplasm, nucleus, and apoplast. We demonstrated that Pst-DPBB negatively regulates the immune response by functioning in various compartments of the plant cells. Based on Co-IP and structural predictions and putative interaction analyses by AlphaFold 3, we propose the probable biological function(s). Pst-DPBB behaves as a papain inhibitor of wheat cysteine protease; Pst-DPBB has high structural homology to kiwellin, which is known to interact with chorismate mutase, suggesting that Pst-DPBB inhibits the native function of the host chorismate mutase involved in salicylic acid synthesis. The DPBB fold is also known to interact with DNA and RNA, which may suggest its possible role in regulating the host gene expression.
Genome Scan Analysis for Advancing Knowledge and Conservation Strategies of Primitivo Clones (Vitis vinifera L.)
Authors: Procino Silvia , Miazzi Monica Marilena , Savino Vito Nicola , La Notte Pierfederico , Venerito Pasquale , D’Agostino Nunzio , Taranto Francesca , Montemurro Cinzia
Published: February 2025

The success of the Primitivo variety underscores the critical need for the managing of clone genetic conservation, utilization, and improvement. By combining genomic and environmental data, breeders can better predict the performance of varieties, thereby improving breeding efficiency and enabling more targeted development of high-quality grapevine cultivars. In this study, 35 Primitivo clones were analysed, including selected and certified clones that have been propagated over several years in Apulia. Genetic variability among the Primitivo clones was assessed through genotyping by sequencing. Using 38,387 filtered SNPs, pairwise identity-by-state (IBS) analysis demonstrated the uniqueness of the 35 clones (IBS < 0.75), indicating a high degree of variability among the samples. Genetic diversity analysis revealed three primary groups, which were differentiated based on geographic origin. The clones from Gioia del Colle were grouped into two distinct clusters, which aligns with the observed variation in grape-related traits. The fixation index (FST > 0.50) identified numerous loci putatively associated with stress responses and developmental traits, including genes involved in key plant biological processes, stress response regulation, and adaptation to environmental conditions such as glutamate receptors, auxin, and ethylene signalling.
Genome-Wide Identification and Expression Pattern Analysis of Nuclear Factor Y B/C Genes in Pinus koraiensis, and Functional Identification of LEAFY COTYLEDON 1
Authors: Xu Xiuyue , He Xin , Zhang Qun , Yang Ling
Published: February 2025

The nuclear factor Y (NF-Y) transcription factor is widely involved in various plant biological processes, such as embryogenesis, abscisic acid signaling, and abiotic stress responses. This study presents a comprehensive genome-wide identification and expression profile of transcription factors NF-YB and NF-YC in Pinus koraiensis. Eight NF-YB and seven NF-YC transcription factors were identified through bioinformatics analysis, including sequence alignment, phylogenetic tree construction, and conserved motif analysis. We evaluate the expression patterns of NF-YB/C genes in various tissues and somatic embryo maturation processes through the transcriptomics of ABA-treated tissues from multiple nutritional tissues, reproductive tissues, and somatic embryo maturation processes. The Leafy cotyledon1 (LEC1) gene belongs to the LEC1-type gene in the NF-YB family, numbered PkNF-YB7. In this study, we characterized the function of PkLEC1 during somatic embryonic development using genetic transformation techniques. The results indicate that PkNF-YB/C transcription factors are involved in the growth and development of nutritional tissues and reproductive organs, with specific high expression in PkNF-YB7 embryogenic callus, somatic embryos, zygotic embryos, and macropores. Most PkNF YB/C genes do not respond to ABA treatment during the maturation culture process. Compared with the absence of ABA, PkNF-YB8 was up-regulated in ABA treatment for one week (4.1 times) and two weeks (11.6 times). However, PkNF-YC5 was down-regulated in both one week (0.6 times) and two weeks (0.36 times) of culture, but the down-regulation trend was weakened in tissues treated with ABA (0.72–0.83 times). In addition, the promoter of PkNF YB/Cs was rich in elements that respond to various plant hormones, indicating their critical role in hormone pathways. The overexpression of PkLEC1 stimulated the generation of early somatic embryos from callus tissue with no potential for embryogenesis, enhancing the somatic embryogenesis ability of P. koraiensis callus tissue.
Co-Occurrence of Stromatinia cepivora and Fusarium proliferatum Fungi on Garlic: In Vitro Investigation of Pathogen–Pathogen Interactions and In Planta Screening for Resistance of Garlic Cultivars
Authors: Ounis Samara , Turóczi György , Kiss József
Published: February 2025

Garlic (Allium sativum L.), a vital global crop, suffers significant losses from soil-borne fungal pathogens such as Fusarium proliferatum, responsible for Fusarium bulb rot, and Stromatinia cepivora, the causal agent of white rot. In May 2023, garlic fields near Makó City, Hungary, showed simultaneous yellowing and wilting symptoms of unknown fungal infestations, which appeared sporadically. The causal pathogens were later confirmed as F. proliferatum and S. cepivora through sampling of symptomatic garlic plants, incubation in humid chambers to stimulate fungal growth, and culturing on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) under sterile conditions. This was followed by hyphal tip isolation and purification. Molecular identification was performed using ITS1-2 sequencing, supported with morphological identification based on colony and microscopic features. This research aimed to elucidate pathogen interaction dynamics and assess the resistance of eleven garlic cultivars to both single and simultaneous inoculations by these pathogens, under in vitro and in planta tests. Dual culture assays of F. proliferatum and S. cepivora were studied at two time points: Day 8, marking the cessation of growth along the interacting fronts due to competitive coexistence, and Day 14, when single cultures reached full radial growth. On Day 8, inhibition percentages were 8.47% for F. proliferatum and 6.40% for S. cepivora, reflecting the initial effects of competitive interactions at the point of contact. By Day 14, inhibition rates increased to 25.39% and 28.61%, respectively, highlighting the cumulative effects of sustained competition and the growing difference between single and dual culture growth. Inoculation trials, involving placing fungal disks onto the basal areas of wounded garlic cloves, revealed considerable variability in disease incidence and severity. Cultivars such as ‘Aulxito’, ‘Sabadrome’, ‘Arno’, ‘Garcua’, and ‘Makói Tavaszi’ were highly susceptible to both pathogens, while ‘Flavor’ and ‘Sabagold’ exhibited only mild symptoms when inoculated with F. proliferatum and S. cepivora, respectively. Simultaneous inoculation resulted in more rapid and severe infections, exhibiting disease incidences above 96.00% across all cultivars. Remarkably, the cultivar ‘Elephant’ exhibited complete resistance to both pathogens, even under simultaneous inoculation, highlighting its potential for future garlic resistance breeding programs.
Health Status and Disinfection Prior to Grafting Affect the Phenolic Profile of Grapevine Hetero-Grafts and Grafting Yield
Authors: Krošelj Saša , Mikulic-Petkovsek Maja , Kjuder Domen , Pavlin Anja , Likar Matevž , Škvarč Andreja , Biniari Katerina , Rusjan Denis
Published: February 2025

Grapevine trunk disease (GTD) is a major threat to grapevine propagation, severely affecting the growth and development of young vines. As one of the most destructive plant diseases in the world, GTD spreads easily through propagation material and threatens the sustainability of vineyards. While effective, biologically friendly treatments remain unavailable. This study investigated the graft yield, the growth potential of grapevine hetero-grafts, and phenolic responses focusing on (i) GTD scion health status (healthy—HLT; asymptomatic—ASYM; symptomatic—SYM) and (ii) disinfection methods. Grafting with HLT scions achieved the highest yield rates, particularly with Serenade® ASO (75%) and BioAction ES (79%), while infected scions showed lower yields. The growth potential of the scions was not affected by the disinfection method or the health status of the scions. Phenolic composition varied between scions, graft callus, rootstock canes, and roots, with scion health status strongly influencing most metabolites. Higher levels of flavanols were observed in HLT scions treated with BioAction ES and Serenade® ASO, with these treatments resulting in 1.6 and 1.5 times higher procyanidin dimer levels, respectively, compared to Beltanol. Flavanols and stilbenes were lower in the callus tissue of grafts with healthy scions compared to infected scions. Rootstock also showed higher levels of catechin and procyanidin dimers in grafts with HLT scions. These results indicate that the health status of scion GTD and the disinfection methods significantly influence the graft yield and phenolic composition, providing valuable insights for GTD management.
Urban Flora Biodiversity of Some Continental Cities of the Po Plain (Emilia-Romagna, Northern Italy)
Authors: Alessandrini Alessandro , Adorni Michele , Buldrini Fabrizio , Montanari Sergio , Morelli Villiam , Pellizzari Mauro , Sirotti Maurizio , Bosi Giovanna
Published: February 2025

Urban flora is a more and more interesting research subject, in light of the ongoing environmental change and biological homogenisation, since urban contexts are much more diversified that natural ones and, therefore, they offer much more colonisation possibilities to allochthonous species or unexpected refuges for endangered species. We have, therefore, added our own contribution by analysing the spontaneous vascular flora of 7 cities of the Emilia-Romagna Po Plain (northern Italy), one of the more culturally and economically developed areas in Europe. The global floristic list was 1305 species, spanning from 432 to 756 species in each individual city; 219 of them were constantly present in all cities examined. A notable richness in phytosociological classes (43 out of 75 known for the entire national territory) was observed. Therophytes were 35.4% of the spectrum, followed by hemicryptophytes, phanerophytes and geophytes. Eurasian and Mediterranean species dominated (average values 30 and 27%, respectively); exotic species were 26.8%, in line with the strong floristic pollution of Emilia-Romagna, with neophytes always prevailing over archaeophytes. Among neophytes, 44.8% came from the Americas and 26.2% from Asia. Some hydro-hygrophilous and halophilous species were found, owing to the presence of watercourses crossing the urban areas and coastal wetlands bordering one of the towns. The species new for the flora of Italy or Emilia-Romagna were 32, of which 24 were allochthonous. The species protected at a regional or national level were hardly present, which is normal in artificial environments. Despite the inevitable differences in exploration intensity and effort, this synthesis offers a picture of the contribution given by anthropogenic habitats to the global biological richness of the territory.
Poly(vinyl alcohol) Nanocomposites Reinforced with CuO Nanoparticles Extracted by Ocimum sanctum: Evaluation of Wound-Healing Applications
Authors: Pattadakal Shrishail , Ghatti Vanita , Chapi Sharanappa , G. Vidya , Kumarswamy Yogesh Kumar , Raghu M. S. , T. Vidyavathi G. , Nandihalli Nagaraj , Kasai Deepak R.
Published: February 2025

This study focused on the synthesis of plant-mediated copper-oxide nanoparticles (OsCuONPs) via the sol–gel technique and the fabrication of OsCuONP-infused PVA composite films (POsCuONPs) utilizing the solvent casting method for wound-healing applications. The prepared OsCuONPs and nanocomposite films were characterized using UV–visible spectra, FTIR, SEM, XRD, TGA, water contact-angle (WCA) measurements, and a Universal testing machine (UTM) for mechanical property measurements. The UV and FTIR tests showed that OsCuONPs were formed and were present in the PVA composite film. Moreover, the mechanical study confirmed that there is an increase in the tensile strength (TS) and Young’s modulus (Ym) with 21.75 MPa to 32.50 MPa for TS and 24.80 MPa to 1128.36 MPa for Ym, and a decrease in the % elongation at break (Eb) (394.32 to 75.6). The TGA and WCA study results demonstrated that PVA films containing OsCuONPs are more stable when subjected to high temperatures and demonstrate a decreased hydrophilicity (60.89° to 89.62°). The cytotoxicity and hemolysis tests showed that the CuONPs-3 containing composite films (PVA/OsCuONPs with a wt. ratio of 1.94/0.06) are safe to use, have a good level of cell viability, and do not break down blood. This is true even at high concentrations. The study also discovered that cells moved considerably in 12 and 24 h (13.12 to 19.26 for OsCuONPs and 312.53 to 20.60 for POsCuONPs), suggesting that 60% of the gaps were filled. Therefore, the fabricated POsCuONP nanocomposites may serve as a promising option for applications in wound healing.
Sustainable Reinforcement of Silicone Rubber: Comparative Analysis of Biosilica from Rice Husk and Conventional Silica
Authors: Jeong Hyeon Woo , Park Kyoung Tae , Oh Su Min , Shim Sang Eun , Qian Yingjie
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study is to compare rice husk-derived silica (biosilica) synthesized via an environmentally friendly method with conventional silica (Zeosil 175) for reinforcing the mechanical properties of silicone rubber. The silanol group content of Zeosil 175 (9.45 OH/nm2) is higher than that of biosilica (7.07 OH/nm2), whereas the specific surface area of biosilica (159.52 m2/g) exceeds that of Zeosil 175 (144.90 m2/g). Silicone rubber specimens containing two types of silica nanoparticles were prepared at loading levels of 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 parts per hundred rubber to evaluate their mechanical properties and characteristics. Results indicate that silicone rubber filled with biosilica shows comparable tensile strength to Zeosil 175 at low filler contents, which can be attributed to its higher specific surface area. However, at higher loading levels, the mechanical properties are somewhat diminished due to the Payne effect and filler agglomeration resulting from the larger particle size of biosilica. These experimental findings offer insights into the potential utilization of rice husk-derived biosilica as an alternative to conventional silica in enhancing the properties of silicone rubber alongside the findings of the mechanical analysis.
Integrating Process Safety and Process Security Risk Management: Practitioner Insights for a Resilience-Oriented Framework
Authors: Ab Rahim Muhammad Shah , Reniers Genserik , Yang Ming , Siwayanan Parthiban
Published: February 2025

Integrating process safety and process security risk management is increasingly essential for enhancing resilience in the chemical process industry. This study addresses how practitioners perceive the integration of these two domains, identifying key benefits, barriers, and strategies for effective implementation. A mixed-methods approach was applied, combining quantitative survey data from 47 industry professionals with qualitative insights from open-ended responses. The findings highlight significant advantages of integration, such as optimized resource use, reduced operational redundancies, and improved risk management. However, barriers such as knowledge gaps, resource constraints, and communication silos were identified. Respondents emphasized the importance of adopting a resilience-oriented approach involving proactive risk management, continuous improvement, and adaptability in both safety and security practices. Critical enablers for integration include strong leadership, alignment of societal values, cross-disciplinary training, and integrated risk assessment methodologies. Emerging technologies and regulatory alignment were also identified as critical factors in facilitating integration. The study contributes to the theoretical understanding of integrated risk management by supporting resilience engineering and systems theory. It offers actionable strategies for overcoming barriers and leveraging enablers, laying the groundwork for developing a resilience-oriented framework for process safety and process security risk management.
Management and Disposal of Waste Tires to Develop a Company for the Manufacture of Products Based on Recycled Rubber in Tamaulipas, México
Authors: López-García Ricardo Daniel , Maldonado-Reyes Araceli , Reyes-Gallegos María Magdalena , Rodríguez-García José Amparo , Calles-Arriaga Carlos Adrián , Rocha-Rangel Enrique
Published: February 2025

Currently, the disposal of waste tires is considered one of the priority environmental and public health problems worldwide. Every year, more than 1.4 billion unused tires are placed in landfills. Population growth, economic development, and a strong demand for vehicle production in the automotive industry increase this problem. In Mexico, nearly 36 million unused tires are deposited in landfills or clandestine deposits, the vast majority being burned or accumulated in the open air. The lack of regulations in the handling, disposal, and recycling of tires creates a worrying panorama for environmental care and the problems that this entails. The objective of this work is to propose a viable alternative for the final disposal and recycling of waste tires through the implementation of a company for the manufacture of products based on recycled rubber in the state of Tamaulipas, Mexico, reducing environmental pollution by these wastes and generating sources of employment through a sustainable company. For this purpose, a study was carried out in Tamaulipas, Mexico, through surveys to determine the number of tires that can be obtained and determine the feasibility of the business; subsequently, a prediction was made using simulation software to design and estimate the expected production in the manufacture of parking bumpers using two scenarios with two and four workers. Likewise, specialized software was used to optimize waste tire collection routes from the different tire stores to the company’s location. The results show that with an optimal design of the tire collection routes, up to 483 tons of waste tires can be recovered per year, representing 10% of the total unused tires in Tamaulipas. Because it is an environmental and social problem, installing a company manufacturing products based on recycled rubber is feasible and has a high probability of success for the region studied. According to the simulation, employing four workers increases productivity and decreases manufacturing costs. Through the simulation, three tire collection routes were determined considering the total number of tire stores in the city where the company is located.
Flue Gas Recirculation in Steam Boilers: A Comprehensive Assessment Strategy for Energy Optimization and Efficiency Enhancement
Authors: Alhashem Abdulwahab , Almutairi Abdulrahman S. , Almokmesh Saad F.
Published: February 2025

In modern steam boilers, flue gas recirculation (FGR) is generally adopted as a temperature control method for reheated steam. Some research suggests that FGR does not affect the thermal performance of steam boilers, while other studies report enhanced thermal performance. This investigation aims to enhance energy efficiency by using an iterative calculation approach to provide a thorough energy evaluation of a steam boiler with an integrated FGR system. The research applies thermodynamic and heat transfer principles to model combustion characteristics, radiative heat transfer in the furnace waterwall, and convective and inter-tube radiative heat transfer in the economizer, superheaters, and reheater. The model is validated using specifications from an existing power plant boiler and a parametric analysis to examine the effects of varying FGR rates on heat distribution and thermal performance at full and partial loads. The results show that radiative heat accounts for an average of 45% of the total heat supplied, with up to 10% in the heat recovery section. As the FGR rate increases, radiative heat in the heat recovery section decreases by 50%, while the convective heat transfer increases then drops. The model shows that the ideal FGR is bounded between 0.3 at 50% boiler load and 0.4 at full load. An analysis of the impact of FGR on the various parts of the boiler reveals that the economizer experiences the most significant net change in heat gain, followed by the reheater. The effect of gas recirculation on the economizer can be nearly twice as great as on the reheater, indicating that FGR has substantial influence on components beyond the reheater. The findings indicate that reducing excessive heat in the economizer and reheater can be accomplished under different load conditions by regulating the fuel consumption rate according to the analysis of the effects of FGR on radiative and convective heat transfer across various components.
Optimization of Extraction Conditions for Phenolic Compounds from Potato Tubers: LC-MS Phenolic Profile as a Powerful Tool to Assess the Genotypes, Vegetation Period, and Production Systems of Potato
Authors: Dramićanin Aleksandra , Horvacki Nikola , Gašić Uroš , Milojković-Opsenica Dušanka
Published: February 2025

Five different extraction methods were assessed to select an optimal procedure for extracting the phenolic antioxidants from potato tubers. Total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were determined for each type of extraction. In total, 144 samples of four potato varieties from three production systems, over a period of three years, were analyzed. The results show that TPC and RSA tests can be used as parameters for differentiating potato parts and variety and to distinguish the samples depending on ripening time and the production system. Higher values of TPC and RSA were observed in samples from the organic cultivation system compared to integral and conventional cultivation in the same cultivar. Finally, by the employment of UHPLC-LTQ Orbitrap XL, fifty-nine phenolic compounds were identified. It was concluded that the phenolic profile is a powerful tool for confirming botanical origin, distinguishing between genotypes, and distinguishing various production systems of potato.
Differential Signaling Pathways Identified in Aqueous Humor, Anterior Capsule, and Crystalline Lens of Age-Related, Diabetic, and Post-Vitrectomy Cataract
Authors: Karakosta Christina , Samiotaki Martina , Bisoukis Anastasios , Bougioukas Konstantinos I. , Panayotou George , Papaconstantinou Dimitrios , Moschos Marilita M.
Published: February 2025

Background: The purpose of this study was to detect proteomic alterations and corresponding signaling pathways involved in the formation of age-related cataract (ARC), diabetic cataract (DC), and post-vitrectomy cataract (PVC). Methods: Three sample types, the aqueous humor (AH), the anterior capsule (AC), and the content of the phaco cassette, were collected during phacoemulsification surgery. The samples were obtained from 12 participants without diabetes mellitus (DM), 11 participants with DM, and 7 participants without DM, with a history of vitrectomy surgery in the past 12 months. The Sp3 protocol (Single-Pot, Solid-Phase, Sample-Preparation) was used for the sample preparation. The recognition and quantification of proteins were carried out with liquid chromatography online with tandem mass spectrometry. The DIA-NN software was applied for the identification and quantification of peptides/proteins. Statistical analysis and data visualization were conducted on Perseus software. Data are available via ProteomeXchange. Results: A very rich atlas of the lens and AH proteome has been generated. Glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis and the non-canonical Wnt receptor signaling pathway were differentially expressed in ARC compared to both the DC and PVC groups. In the PVC group, complement activation was differentially expressed in AH samples, while glutathione metabolism and oxidoreductase activity were differentially expressed in AC samples. Microfilament motor activity, microtubule cytoskeleton organization, and microtubule binding were differentially expressed in the DC and PVC groups in both AH and AC samples. Conclusions: The results of this study expand the existing knowledge on pathways involved in the pathophysiology of cataract, and suggest possible important druggable targets for slower progression or even prevention of cataract.
Electrolysis of Liquefied Biomass for Sustainable Hydrogen and Organic Compound Production: A Biorefinery Approach
Authors: Ferreira Ana P. R. A. , Mateus M. Margarida , Santos Diogo M. F.
Published: February 2025

Liquefaction is an effective thermochemical process for converting lignocellulosic biomass into bio-oil, a hydrocarbon-rich resource. This study explores liquefied biomass electrolysis as a novel method to promote the electrocracking of organic molecules into value-added compounds while simultaneously producing hydrogen (H2). Key innovations include utilizing water from the liquefaction process as an electrolyte component to minimize industrial waste and incorporating carbon dioxide (CO2) into the process to enhance decarbonization efforts and generate valuable byproducts. The electrolysis process was optimized by adding 2 M KOH, and voltammetric methods were employed to analyze the resulting emulsion. The experimental conditions, such as the temperature, anode material, current type, applied cell voltage, and CO2 bubbling, were systematically evaluated. Direct current electrolysis at 70 °C using nickel electrodes produced 55 mL of H2 gas with the highest Faradaic (43%) and energetic (39%) efficiency. On the other hand, pulsed electrolysis at room temperature generated a higher H2 gas volume (102 mL) but was less efficient, showing 30% Faradaic and 11% energetic efficiency. FTIR analysis revealed no significant functional group changes in the electrolyte post-electrolysis. Additionally, the solid deposits formed at the anode had an ash content of 36%. This work demonstrates that electrocracking bio-oil is a clean, sustainable approach to H2 production and the synthesis of valuable organic compounds, offering significant potential for biorefinery applications.
An Evaluation of the Rural Tourism Industry’s Competitiveness in the Yangtze River Economic Belt Based on the “Diamond Model”—Exampled by Wenjiang District, Huangpi District, and Jiangning District
Authors: Zhang Chunfeng , Xu Ke , Zhang Xiang , Han Dongxiao , He Yating
Published: February 2025

Rural tourism has emerged as a significant option to meet the people’s growing needs for a better life in the new era. Evaluating the competitiveness of the rural tourism industry plays a crucial role in promoting rural revitalization. This article is based on a modified Porter’s diamond model. This study focuses on representative rural tourism demonstration areas in the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Yangtze River Economic Belt, specifically Wenjiang District in Chengdu, Huangpi District in Wuhan, and Jiangning District in Nanjing. The Delphi method and the Analytic Hierarchy Process were employed to construct a competitiveness evaluation index system for rural tourism and to assign weights. This article evaluates and compares the competitiveness of the rural tourism industry in the case study regions. This research reveals that the competitiveness of the rural tourism industry in the Yangtze River Economic Belt exhibits a pattern of strong competitiveness in the middle reaches, weaker competitiveness in the upper reaches, and moderate competitiveness in the lower reaches. These differences are significantly influenced by the region’s tourism resource endowments, tourism infrastructure, and market scale. Huangpi District demonstrates strong competitiveness in its rural tourism industry. This strength is attributed to its well-developed rural tourism supply system. Jiangning District has moderate competitiveness in its rural tourism industry. This is supported by a strong market demand and a relatively complete tourism support system. Wenjiang District shows weaker competitiveness in its rural tourism industry. This weakness results from a fragile rural tourism supply system and a sluggish market demand. This article concludes with recommendations for enhancing the competitiveness of rural tourism in the Yangtze River Economic Belt.