bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prudent Electricity Procurement by a Load Serving Entity
Authors: Cao Kang Hua , Qi Han Steffan , Woo Chi-Keung , Zarnikau Jay William , Li Raymond
Published: February 2025

Motivated by the projected solar and wind capacity additions around the world, we model the energy procurement decision of a load serving entity (LSE) faced with alternatives of solar power purchase agreements (PPAs), wind PPAs, non-renewable energy forward contracts, and spot energy purchases in a wholesale electricity market with uncertain prices. Using a pseudo-data sample of over one million observations, we estimate a translog cost function to find that the LSE’s own-price elasticity estimates range from −1.87 for nighttime spot MWh demands to −13.1 for forward MWh demands. MWh demands are influenced by solar and wind capacity factors, daytime and nighttime retail sales, and spot energy price forecasts. The LSE’s optimal procurement of solar capacity is roughly twice the wind capacity, corroborating the ratios of projected solar and wind capacity additions in regions around the world. If the LSE’s existing energy mix is nearly all renewable, it becomes carbon-free when solar and wind power purchase agreements have declining energy prices or when forward energy price and spot energy price forecasts increase over time. These results imply that piecemeal policy measures can have conflicting outcomes, calling for integrated resource planning under wholesale market competition and price uncertainty.
Freezing Method Assists Peracetic Acid Oxidation for Promoting the Methane Production from Sludge Anaerobic Digestion
Authors: Liu Zhen-Wei , Chen Yan-Qiu , Liu Zhi-Shuai , Wang Sheng-Wu
Published: February 2025

Peracetic acid (PAA) oxidation, which is a kind of chemical method for sludge pretreatment, has been verified to be valid for promoting sludge anaerobic digestion performance. However, the methane production is still limited at certain levels by this method, because excess PAA has negative effects on methanogens. This work selected a freezing method combined with PAA to form a composite sludge pretreatment technology for synergistically improving the biomethane production. According to the experimental data, the methane yield was largely enhanced from 166.4 ± 5.6 mL/g volatile suspended solids (VSS) in the control to 261.5 ± 7.3 mL/g VSS by the combined freezing (−10 °C) and PAA (0.08 g/g TSS) pretreatment, with a 57.2% increase rate. Kinetic analysis showed that the methane production potential, methane production rate, and hydrolysis rate were promoted, respectively, from 159.4 mL/g VSS, 17.18 mL/g VSS/d, and 0.104 d−1 to 254.9 mL/g VSS, 25.69 mL/g VSS/d, and 0.125 d−1 by the freezing + PAA pretreatment. Mechanism analysis revealed that the freezing + PAA pretreatment destroyed both extracellular polymeric substances (EPS) and microbial cells in the sludge, resulting in the increase in hydrolysis efficiency. Gene analysis showed that the hydrolytic microbes (Hyphomicrobium and norank_f_Caldilineaceae), acidogens (e.g., Petrimonas, Tissierella, and Mycobacerium) and methanogens (Methanosaeta, Methanosarcina, and Methanobacterium) were all enriched by the freezing + PAA pretreatment, with the total abundances calculated to be 10.65% and 22.07% in the control and pretreated reactors, respectively. Considering both technical and economic factors, the freezing + PAA method is feasible for sludge pretreatment.
White Noise and Its Misapplications: Impacts on Time Series Model Adequacy and Forecasting
Authors: Hassani Hossein , Mashhad Leila Marvian , Royer-Carenzi Manuela , Yeganegi Mohammad Reza , Komendantova Nadejda
Published: February 2025

This paper contributes significantly to time series analysis by discussing the empirical properties of white noise and their implications for model selection. This paper illustrates the ways in which the standard assumptions about white noise typically fail in practice, with a special emphasis on striking differences in sample ACF and PACF. Such findings prove particularly important when assessing model adequacy and discerning between residuals of different models, especially ARMA processes. This study addresses issues involving testing procedures, for instance, the Ljung–Box test, to select the correct time series model determined in the review. With the improvement in understanding the features of white noise, this work enhances the accuracy of modeling diagnostics toward real forecasting practice, which gives it applied value in time series analysis and signal processing.
Ten Simple Rules for Making a Career Transition from Basic Science to Public Health Research
Authors: Berrigan David , Hartley David M.
Published: February 2025

It is not uncommon for basic scientists to switch into public health research. Such career transitions present a variety of challenges and opportunities and can reinvigorate a career, lead to new skills, and provide the chance to contribute to individual and community health and social justice. Based on our respective experiences switching from applied physics to infectious disease modelling and from evolutionary physiology to cancer prevention and control, we propose ten simple rules intended to help researchers from other disciplines think about a transition to public health research. Together, these rules are largely about navigating between pairs of extremes related to why you want to move in a new direction, how to balance old and new expertise, and balancing humility with the confidence that you are bringing something important to the table. A career transition can also fulfill some of the basic motivators for a research career, including curiosity and a passion to try to solve important problems. Our career transitions proved deeply satisfying. We hope yours will as well.
The Expanding Role of Aquaporin-1, Aquaporin-3 and Aquaporin-5 as Transceptors: Involvement in Cancer Development and Potential Druggability
Authors: Pimpão Catarina , da Silva Inês V. , Soveral Graça
Published: February 2025

Aquaporins (AQPs) are transmembrane proteins that facilitate the transport of water and small solutes, including glycerol, hydrogen peroxide and ions, across cell membranes. Beyond their established physiological roles in water regulation and metabolic processes, AQPs also exhibit receptor-like signaling activities in cancer-associated signaling pathways, integrating the dual roles of transporters and receptors, hence functioning as transceptors. This dual functionality underpins their critical involvement in cancer biology, where AQPs play key roles in promoting cell proliferation, migration, and invasion, contributing significantly to carcinogenesis. Among the AQPs, AQP1, AQP3 and AQP5 have been consistently identified as being aberrantly expressed in various tumor types. Their overexpression is strongly associated with tumor progression, metastasis, and poor patient prognosis. This review explores the pivotal roles of AQP1, AQP3 and AQP5 as transceptors in cancer biology, underscoring their importance as pharmacological targets. It highlights the urgent need for the development of effective modulators to target these AQPs, offering a promising avenue to enhance current therapeutic approaches for cancer treatment.
Synergistic Effects of a Novel Combination of Natural Compounds Prevent H2O2-Induced Oxidative Stress in Red Blood Cells
Authors: Benincasa Giuditta , Bontempo Paola , Trama Ugo , Napoli Claudio
Published: February 2025

Novel strategies to prevent the “storage lesions” of red blood cells (RBCs) are needed to prevent the risk of adverse effects after blood transfusion. One option could be the supplementation of stored blood bags with natural compounds that may increase the basal load of antioxidant protection and the shelf life of RBCs. In this pilot study, we investigated for the first time potential synergistic effects of a triple combination of well-known anti-oxidant compounds curcumin (curc), vitamin E (vit E), and vitamin C (vit C). Briefly, we established an ex vivo model of H2O2-induced oxidative stress and measured the hemolysis ratio (HR) (%) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels in RBCs with or without pre-exposure for 30 min with increasing concentrations of curc, vit E, and vit C and then exposed to 10 mM H2O2. for 60 min. Exposure of RBCs to a triple combination of curc, vit E, and vit C at the highest concentration (100 µM) completely prevented H2O2-induced hemolysis. Surprisingly, we found that pre-treatment of RBCs with curc 100 µM alone completely prevented hemolysis as compared to vit E and vit C alone or in combination at the same concentration. On the other hand, pre-treatment with the triple combination of curc, vit E, and vit C 100 µM was required to totally prevent lipid peroxidation, as compared to curc 100 µM alone, supporting their synergistic effects in preventing RBCs membrane peroxidation. Further experiments are ongoing to investigate the anti-aging effects of the triple combination of curc, vit E, and vit C on cold-stored bags.
A Comparative Study of Common Anesthetics Propofol, Sevoflurane, Isoflurane and Ketamine on Lipid Membrane Fluidity
Authors: Siddique Muhammad Bilal , Nozohouri Ehsan , Ahn Yeseul , Zoubi Sumaih , Bickel Ulrich , Huang Juyang
Published: February 2025

The membrane fluidity increases induced by popular anesthetic agents (propofol, isoflurane, sevoflurane, and ketamine/xylazine) were measured at the clinical and supra-clinical concentrations in red blood cell (RBC) membrane as well as four model membranes. Membrane fluidity changes were monitored using the excimer/monomer (E/M) ratio of dipyrene-PC and fluorescence anisotropies of DPH-PC and TMA-DPH. Propofol, sevoflurane and isoflurane increased membrane fluidity instantaneously. The largest increase occurs in membranes made of saturated lipids. RBCs were labeled with TMA-DPH, and the increase in membrane fluidity at clinical concentrations of isoflurane and sevoflurane was more than that induced by ten times the legal limit of alcohol in human blood. However, membrane fluidity was essentially unchanged by ketamine/xylazine up to 210 µM. These results strongly correlate with our recent in vivo experiments and reveal a clear connection between increasing membrane fluidity in model membranes, increasing the blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability in mice, and inducing effective anesthesia in animals. Interestingly, at the most commonly used clinical concentrations, the membrane fluidity increases induced by propofol, sevoflurane, and isoflurane were very similar, despite the fact that different categories of anesthetics were used and their chemical concentrations were different by 100 times. This indicates that at clinical concentrations of these anesthetics, a similar level of membrane disruption at the BBB is achieved. Thus, our results strongly support the lipid hypothesis of the mechanism of general anesthetics.
Locating the Ethics of ChatGPT—Ethical Issues as Affordances in AI Ecosystems
Authors: Stahl Bernd Carsten
Published: February 2025

ChatGPT is a high-profile technology that has inspired broad discussions about its capabilities and likely consequences. There has been much debate concerning ethical issues that it raises which are typically described as potentially harmful (or beneficial) consequences of ChatGPT. Concerns relating to issues such as privacy, biases, infringements of intellectual property, or discrimination are widely discussed. The article pursues the question of where these issues originate and where they are located. This article suggests that these ethical issues of the technology are located in the technology’s affordances. Affordances are part of the relationship between user and technology. Going beyond existing research on affordances and ChatGPT, the article suggests that affordances are not confined to the relationship between humans and technology. A proper understanding of affordances needs to consider the role of the socio-technical ecosystem within which these relationships unfold. The article concludes by explaining the implications of this position for research and practice.
Implementation of Sensor Input Setup Assistance Service Using Generative AI for SEMAR IoT Application Server Platform
Authors: Kotama I Nyoman Darma , Funabiki Nobuo , Panduman Yohanes Yohanie Fridelin , Brata Komang Candra , Pradhana Anak Agung Surya , Noprianto  , Desnanjaya I Gusti Made Ngurah
Published: February 2025

For rapid deployments of various IoT application systems, we have developed Smart Environmental Monitoring and Analytical in Real-Time (SEMAR) as an integrated server platform. It is equipped with rich functions for collecting, analyzing, and visualizing various data. Unfortunately, the proper configuration of SEMAR with a variety of IoT devices can be complex and challenging for novice users, since it often requires technical expertise. The assistance of Generative AI can be helpful to solve this drawback. In this paper, we present an implementation of a sensor input setup assistance service for SEMAR using prompt engineering techniques and Generative AI. A user needs to define the requirement specifications and environments of the IoT application system for sensor inputs, and give them to the service. Then, the service provides step-by-step guidance on sensor connections, communicating board configurations, network connections, and communication protocols to the user, which can help the user easily set up the configuration to connect the relevant devices to SEMAR. For evaluations, we applied the proposal to the input sensor setup processes of three practical IoT application systems with SEMAR, namely, a smart light, water heater, and room temperature monitoring system. In addition, we applied it to the setup process of an IoT application system for a course for undergraduate students at the Insitut Bisnis dan Teknologi (INSTIKI), Indonesia. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed service for SEMAR.
Malignant Pleural Mesothelioma: A 2025 Update
Authors: Cardillo Giuseppe , Waller David , Tenconi Sara , Di Noia Vincenzo , Ricciardi Sara
Published: February 2025

The incidence of pleural mesothelioma (PM) is slightly increasing, with 2417 new cases/year worldwide [...]
Serum Asprosin and Peptide Tyrosine Tyrosine (PYY) Levels in Bipolar Disorder
Authors: Gürbüzer Nilifer , Tozoğlu Elif Özcan , Ozkaya Alev Lazoglu , Mercantepe Filiz
Published: February 2025

Objective: In our study, we aimed to investigate the differences in metabolic parameters, serum asprosin and peptide tyrosine tyrosine (PYY) levels in a bipolar disorder manic (BD-M) group, a euthymic group and in healthy controls; we also aimed to evaluate the relationship of asprosin and PYY levels with metabolic parameters and psychopathology in patients. Methods: The study included 54 manic patients, 40 euthymic patients and 39 healthy controls. The sociodemographic characteristics of the participants were recorded, and biochemical parameters and asprosin and PYY levels were measured. The Young Mania Rating Scale (YMRS) and the Hamilton Depression Rating Scale (HAM-D) were completed. Results: Body mass index (BMI) showed significant differences between the three groups (p < 0.001); the lowest was found in the control group and the highest in the euthymic group. Triglyceride levels were significantly higher in the euthymic group compared with the BD-M group and controls (p = 0.003). Glucose levels were significantly higher in the BD-M group compared with euthymic (pmanic-euthymic = 0.008) and controls (pmanic-control < 0.001). Asprosin (pmanic-control < 0.001, peuthymic-control = 0.046, pmanic-euthymic = 0.015) and PYY (pmanic-control < 0.001, peuthymic-control = 0.037, pmanic-euthymic = 0.002) levels were significantly different between the three groups, with the lowest levels in the BD-M group and the highest levels in the control group. The eta squared = 0.18 for asprosin and 0.21 for PYY. In the BD-M group, a moderate negative correlation was found between YMRS and asprosin (r = −0.345; p = 0.011) and PYY (r = −0.376; p = 0.005) levels. ROC analysis results showed that asprosin and PYY could be used to predict the manic period in BD-I (AUCasprosin:0.775; AUCPYY:0.760). After adjusting for asprosin as a covariate using ANCOVA, the difference in PYY between groups remained significant (manic–euthymic groups, p = 0.040; manic–control groups, p = 0.013). Conclusions: The study results revealed that asprosin and PYY levels were low, and metabolic parameters were impaired in the patients. Low asprosin and PYY levels may be indicators of impaired energy homeostasis in BD-I. PYY may be a state marker for manic episodes.
Evaluation of Tryptophan and Its Metabolites in Predicting Disease Activation in Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Karataş Ali , Karakan Tarkan , Ekmen Nergiz , Ünsal Yasemin , Türkeş Gülsüm Feyza , Gülbahar Özlem , Cindoruk Mehmet , Ergin Mustafa , Kılıç Güner , İbiş Mehmet , Arhan Mehmet , Doğan İbrahim , Dağlı Hasan
Published: February 2025

Background and Aim: Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), which comprises ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn’s disease (CD), is characterized by chronic inflammation and fluctuating disease activity. This study aimed to evaluate serum tryptophan (TRP) and its metabolites as potential biomarkers for predicting disease activation in comparison to fecal calprotectin (FC). Methods: This prospective study included 115 patients (77 with UC and 38 with CD). Disease activity was assessed based on clinical and endoscopic findings. Serum TRP levels and their metabolites were measured using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), whereas FC levels were analyzed using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Results: Serum TRP levels ≤ 11,328.41 ng/mL predicted disease activation with 72.1% sensitivity and 62.7% specificity, whereas FC levels ≥ 89.60 µg/g showed 84.2% sensitivity and 67.6% specificity. The TRP-to-C-reactive protein (CRP) ratio (TRP/CRP) demonstrated superior diagnostic accuracy, with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.847. Conclusions: The TRP/CRP ratio is a novel and comprehensive approach for predicting disease activation in IBD patients. Although FC remains the gold standard, TRP and its metabolites provide valuable complementary insights. Further research is required to validate these findings in larger cohorts.
Decreased Frequency and Improved Outcomes in Invasive Aspergillosis Caused by Aspergillus terreus After the Introduction of Anti-Mold Azole Agents: A 30-Year Study at a Tertiary Cancer Center
Authors: Hachem Ray Y. , Dagher Hiba , Chaftari Anne-Marie , Jiang Ying , Haddad Andrea , Wehbe Saliba , Shrestha Jishna , Sherchan Robin , Lamie Peter , Makhoul Jennifer , Chaftari Patrick , Raad Issam I.
Published: February 2025

Invasive aspergillosis (IA) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with hematological malignancy (HM) and hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. Aspergillus terreus is associated with worse outcomes than non-terreus Aspergillus species. Since the introduction of anti-mold azoles in 2002, there have been limited data on the etiology of IA. We retrospectively compared characteristics, antifungal treatments, and outcomes between patients with HM or HSCT infected with A. terreus and those with non-terreus Aspergillus between July 1993 and July 2023. We also examined trends over time in rates of A. terreus and outcomes of this infection. A total of 699 patients with culture-documented IA were analyzed, 537 with non-terreus species and 162 with A. terreus. Types of underlying malignancy, neutropenia, graft-versus-host disease, and anti-mold prophylaxis were similar between the groups. ICU stays and mechanical ventilation were more common among patients with A. terreus (p = 0.002 and 0.003, respectively). The rate of A. terreus decreased significantly from 35.9% during 1993–2003 to 11.2% during 2004–2013 and 16.7% during 2014–2023 (p < 0.0001 each). IA caused by A. terreus showed significant improvements in response to therapy and in overall and IA-associated mortality in the last two decades compared to the first (p < 0.0001). In conclusion, the increased use of anti-mold azoles after 2003 improved outcomes for HM patients with IA caused by A. terreus.
Multisensory Health and Well-Being of Chinese Classical Gardens: Insights from Humble Administrator’s Garden
Authors: Guo Li , Gong Xueqian , Li Yinan , Zhang Deshun , Elsadek Mohamed , Yun Jiayan , Ahmad Hassan , Yao Manqin , Li Nian
Published: February 2025

Chinese classical gardens serve as restorative environments that epitomize the essence of Chinese aesthetics. Despite their recognized Outstanding Universal Value, research on the multisensory experiences and associated well-being benefits they offer remains insufficiently explored. This study examines the Humble Administrator’s Garden through a multisensory framework incorporating visual, auditory, and tactile dimensions. By employing a mixed methods approach that integrates questionnaires and physiological measurements, we assessed the psychophysiological responses of 78 participants before and after entering the garden, as well as at distinct landscape points. Key findings reveal the following: (1) the traditional garden environment evoked significant positive perceptual effects; (2) the garden, with its diverse combination of landscape elements—including architecture, water features, rock formations, and plants—was strongly associated with enhanced well-being outcomes. A higher diversity of visual landscapes yielded more pronounced benefits, with water features exerting the most substantial positive influence on health, while rock formations showed a comparatively lesser effect; and (3) physiological and psychological responses of participants varied within the same landscape setting, with tactile experiences eliciting the most profound psychological changes. These findings underscore the pivotal role of multisensory engagement in Chinese classical gardens for fostering well-being, offering valuable health-related benefits beyond their cultural and ecological significance.
On the Origin of Information Dynamics in Early Life
Authors: Gatenby Robert A. , Gallaher Jill , Subramanian Hemachander , Hammarlund Emma U. , Whelan Christopher J.
Published: February 2025

We hypothesize that predictable variations in environmental conditions caused by night/day cycles created opportunities and hazards that initiated information dynamics central to life’s origin. Increased daytime temperatures accelerated key chemical reactions but also caused the separation of double-stranded polynucleotides, leading to hydrolysis, particularly of single-stranded RNA. Daytime solar UV radiation promoted the synthesis of organic molecules but caused broad damage to protocell macromolecules. We hypothesize that inter-related simultaneous adaptations to these hazards produced molecular dynamics necessary to store and use information. Self-replicating RNA heritably reduced the hydrolysis of single strands after separation during warmer daytime periods by promoting sequences that formed hairpin loops, generating precursors to transfer RNA (tRNA), and initiating tRNA-directed evolutionary dynamics. Protocell survival during daytime promoted sequences in self-replicating RNA within protocells that formed RNA–peptide hybrids capable of scavenging UV-induced free radicals or catalyzing melanin synthesis from tyrosine. The RNA–peptide hybrids are precursors to ribosomes and the triplet codes for RNA-directed protein synthesis. The protective effects of melanin production persist as melanosomes are found throughout the tree of life. Similarly, adaptations mitigating UV damage led to the replacement of Na+ by K+ as the dominant mobile cytoplasmic cation to promote diel vertical migration and selected for homochirality. We conclude that information dynamics emerged in early life through adaptations to predictably fluctuating opportunities and hazards during night/day cycles, and its legacy remains observable in extant life.
Influence of Interface Mixed Layer on Non-Collinear Exchange Coupling in V-Fe Multilayers
Authors: Ranecka Agnieszka , Pugaczowa-Michalska Maria , Smardz Lesław
Published: February 2025

V/Fe multilayers were prepared on naturally oxidized Si(100) substrates at room temperature (RT) by UHV magnetron sputtering. Mixing effects at the Fe–V interfaces were investigated in-situ, directly after deposition, by means of X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results of systematic in-situ XPS studies of the integral intensity of the Fe-2p peak, as a function of the nominal thickness of the Fe sublayer deposited on vanadium, allowed us to estimate the thickness of the pure iron layer that forms the mixed layer at about 0.4 nm. Assuming the same thickness of the vanadium layer that forms the mixed layer, the estimated thickness of the mixed layer near the Fe–V interface was about 0.8 nm. In the analysis of magnetic hysteresis loops, in addition to the bilinear (J1) and biquadratic (J2) coupling constant, the contribution of the cubic exchange constant (J3) was taken into account, which also contributed significantly to the total energy. Higher order interactions (J2 and J3) are particularly important for V spacer thicknesses greater than 7 atomic monolayers. Hydrogen absorption in V/Fe multilayers at RT and a pressure of about 1 bar causes an increase in the biquadratic coupling constant J2, while the values of J1 and J3 are reduced. A comparison of the obtained experimental results and available theoretical models leads to the conclusion that the mechanism of “fluctuating thickness of the non-magnetic spacer” could be responsible for the biquadratic exchange coupling. On the other hand, the “loose spins” model can explain the cubic coupling in the V/Fe multilayers. The modification of the interlayer exchange coupling using hydrogen is fully reversible.
Shoulder Musculoskeletal Disorder Rehabilitation Using a Robotic Device Based on Electromyography (EMG) Biofeedback: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Lavallière Martin , Tremblay Mathieu , Ojardias Etienne , Turpin Maxime , Perrochon Anaïck , Rigoard Philippe , Goudman Lisa , Moens Maarten , David Romain , Billot Maxime
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: While shoulder injuries represent the musculoskeletal disorders (MSDs) most encountered in physical therapy, there is no consensus on their management. In attempts to provide standardized and personalized treatment, a robotic-assisted device combined with EMG biofeedback specifically dedicated to shoulder MSDs was developed. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of an 8-week rehabilitation program (3 sessions a week) using a robotic-assisted device combined with EMG biofeedback (RA-EMG group) in comparison with a conventional program (CONV group) in patients presenting with shoulder MSDs. Materials and Methods: This study is a retrospective cohort study including data from 2010 to 2013 on patients initially involved in a physical rehabilitation program in a private clinic in Chicoutimi (Canada) for shoulder MSDs. Shoulder flexion strength and range of motion were collected before and after the rehabilitation program. Forty-four patients participated in a conventional program using dumbbells (CONV group), while 73 completed a program on a robot-assisted device with EMG and visual biofeedback (RA-EMG group); both programs consisted of two sets of 20 repetitions at 60% of maximal capacity. Results: We showed that the RA-EMG had significantly greater benefits than the CONV group for shoulder flexion strength (4.45 [2.6;6.15] kg vs. 2.3 [0.90;4.775] kg, U = 761, p = 0.013) and for normalized strength (77.5 [51.3;119.1] % vs. 39.1 [16.6;89.2] %, U = 755, p = 0.016). In addition, the RA-EMG group showed a trend to greater absolute gain of ROM than the CONV group (10.0 [0;24.3] degrees vs. 5.5 [0;12.0] degrees, U = 1931, p = 0.067), and a greater benefit in normalized ROM was observed for the RA-EMG (7.4. [0;17.7] %) than the CONV group (4.6 [0;10.8], U = 1907, p = 0.046). Conclusions: The current retrospective cohort study showed that a specific and tailored 8-week rehabilitation program with constant effort by automatic adjustment of the level of resistance by EMG feedback induced greater benefits for shoulder flexion strength and a trend to improve range of motion compared to conventional rehabilitation in patients with shoulder MSDs. Future research should be pursued to determine the added potential of this approach for abduction and external rotation with a randomized controlled design.
The Impact of Social Support on Postoperative Recovery in Retinal Detachment Surgery
Authors: Castellano-Santana Pedro-Raúl , Cabrera-López Francisco , Martín-Alonso María-DeLasNieves , Flores-Jardo Yésica , González-Martín Jesús María , Díaz-Ginory Ariday-Miguel , Torres-Duchement Abián-David , Santana-Socorro Yurena , Hernández-Rodríguez José-Enrique
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Retinal detachment is a severe ophthalmological condition requiring urgent surgical intervention and comprehensive postoperative management. This study aimed to evaluate the impact of perceived social support (PSS) on postoperative adherence, pain management, and reintervention rates in patients undergoing retinal detachment surgery. It was hypothesized that higher levels of PSS would be associated with better postoperative outcomes, particularly in adherence and anxiety management. Materials and Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted with 166 patients at a tertiary hospital between 2022 and 2024. Sociodemographic and clinical data were collected, and PSS was assessed using the Medical Outcomes Study (MOS) questionnaire (Cronbach’s alpha = 0.96). The primary outcomes included adherence to postoperative recommendations, reintervention rates, additional analgesic use, and local complications. Given the non-normal distribution of key variables, non-parametric statistical analyses were performed, with significance set at p < 0.05. Results: PSS scores were consistently high (median: 5; IQR: 4.7–5.0). Adherence rates were excellent (100% at 7 and 15 days; 99.04% at 30 days). Reintervention rates remained low (0.5%, 1.0%, and 1.5% at 7, 15, and 30 days, respectively). The need for additional analgesia decreased significantly over time (46.43% at 7 days vs. 13.33% at 30 days; p = 0.041). Preoperative anxiety was significantly associated with higher postoperative analgesic consumption (median STAI score: 38 [IQR: 34–42], p = 0.041). A significant relationship was found between higher preoperative anxiety levels and greater postoperative analgesic use (p = 0.041). However, no significant associations were found between PSS and major clinical outcomes such as reintervention or complications. Conclusions: These findings suggest that PSS may influence adherence to postoperative recommendations, although its direct impact on clinical outcomes remains uncertain. The significant association between higher preoperative anxiety and increased postoperative analgesic consumption highlights the need for psychosocial and educational interventions in RD surgical care. These results support a multidisciplinary approach incorporating psychosocial support alongside surgical treatment to optimize patient outcomes.
Electron Beam Irradiation-Induced Defects Enhance Pt-TiO2 Photothermal Catalytic Degradation in PAEs: A Performance and Mechanism Study
Authors: Bi Fukun , Zhang Yaofei , Zhou Zhuoxuan , Guo Lei , Zhu Ziqiao , Liu Baolin , Zhang Xiaodong
Published: February 2025

Phthalic acid esters (PAEs), ubiquitous semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs) in indoor environments, pose adverse effects on human health. However, their degradation mechanisms and pathways remain unclear. Herein, we developed an efficient photothermal catalyst by introducing defects (oxygen vacancies, OVs) on TiO2 (P25) surfaces via electron beam irradiation technology with different irradiation doses (100, 300, 500, and 700 kGy). The TiO2 with defects was employed as a support to prepare Pt-TiO2 catalysts for the photothermal degradation of di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEMP) and dimethyl phthalate (DMP), two representative PAEs. TiO2 pre-treated with a 300 kGy irradiation dose supported the Pt catalyst (Pt-Ti-P-300) and presented the optimal catalytic performance for DEMP and DMP degradation. Characterization results confirmed that OVs were successfully introduced to the catalysts. Meanwhile, OVs induced by electron beam irradiation expanded the light absorption range and improved the generation and separation of photogenerated carriers, which significantly enhanced the catalytic activity of the catalysts for PAE degradation. Importantly, the degradation mechanism and pathway of DMP were further explored by using in situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (DRIFTS) and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS). These findings provide important insights into the electron beam irradiation-mediated regulation of catalysts and the photothermal catalytic removal of PAEs in indoor environments.
Effect of Milk and Water Kefir Grains on the Nutritional Profile and Antioxidant Capacity of Fermented Almond Milk
Authors: La Torre Chiara , Caputo Paolino , Fazio Alessia
Published: February 2025

Today, the global trend toward plant-based beverages has grown for sustainability, health-related, lifestyle, and dietary reasons. Among them, drinks produced from almonds have been recognized as a concentrated nutrient source. Commercial almond milk was fermented under the same processing conditions using water and milk kefir grains to determine the starter culture leading to the beverage with the better nutritional profile. The resulting fermented beverages were investigated for protein, phenolic, and flavonoid content, fatty acid profile, and antioxidant activity, determined by DPPH, ABTS, and FRAP assays. Comparing the results, it was found that the almond beverage from milk kefir grains had the highest protein. The lipid profile of both beverages was characterized by a high content of monounsaturated fatty acids and a lower saturated fatty acid concentration compared to almond milk. Despite the higher phenolic content of the almond beverage from milk kefir grains, the ABTS and DPPH tests showed increased antioxidant activity in both fermented beverages, but with no significant difference between them, while the FRAP test showed a pronounced predominance of iron-reducing ability in the beverage from water kefir grains. The evidence from this study suggested that both types of grains can be used as starter cultures to enhance the nutritional and bioactive properties of almond milk.
Investigation of the Influence of the Extraction System and Seasonality on the Pharmacological Potential of Eugenia punicifolia Leaves
Authors: Neves Kidney O. G. , Silva Samuel O. , Cruz Marinildo S. , Mar Josiana Moreira , Bezerra Jaqueline A. , Sanches Edgar A. , Cassani Natasha Marques , Antoniucci Giovanna A. , Jardim Ana Carolina Gomes , Chaves Francisco C. M. , Acho Leonard D. R. , Lima Emersom S. , Machado Marcos B. , Santos Alan D. C.
Published: February 2025

The chemical complexity of natural products, such as Eugenia punicifolia (Kunth) DC. plant, presents a challenge when extracting and identifying bioactive compounds. This study investigates the impact of different extraction systems and seasonal variations on the chemical profile and pharmacological potential of E. punicifolia leaves using NMR spectroscopy for chemical analysis and canonical correlation analysis (CCA) for bioactivity correlation. Extracts obtained with methanol (M), ethanol (E), methanol/ethanol (1:1, ME), and methanol/ethanol/water (3:1:1, MEW) were analyzed for antioxidant, antiglycation, and antiviral activities. Quantitative ¹H NMR, combined with the PULCON method, was used to quantify phenolic compounds such as quercetin, myricetin, catechin, and gallic acid. The results showed that the MEW extract obtained in the rainy season exhibited the highest antioxidant and antiglycation activities, with a greater than 93% of advanced-glycation end-products (AGEs) inhibition capacity. Furthermore, our results showed that all the extracts were able to inhibit over 94% of the Zika virus (ZIKV) infection in Vero E6 cells. The CCA established strong correlations between the phenolic compounds and bioactivities, identifying gallic acid, catechin, quercetin, and myricetin as key chemical markers. This study demonstrates the importance of selecting appropriate extraction systems and considering seasonality to optimize the pharmacological potential of E. punicifolia leaves and highlights the efficacy of NMR in linking chemical composition with bioactivities.
An Eight-Membered Ring Molecular Framework Based on Carbazole for the Development of Electroluminescent Materials
Authors: Yan An , Xu Shipan , Du Xuyang , Zhu Chengyun , Li Shengli , Yang Xiaolong , Zhou Guijiang , Sun Yuanhui
Published: February 2025

The organic light-emitting diode (OLED) has been regarded as the most prominent product in the current market of organic electronics, which has attracted growing attention because of their applications in full-color displays and solid-state lighting. Organic materials that exhibit strong luminescence in the solid state constitute the core position of OLED. Extensive research efforts to probe the structure of organic luminescent materials have attracted considerable attention to the conjugated fusion ring architecture. This is because it can confer molecular rigidity and helps to inhibit intermolecular interactions and non-radiative transitions, thus enhancing the performance of luminescent materials. Here, we use an efficient and simple method to construct an eight-membered ring molecular framework based on carbazole. Moreover, we have introduced groups with different electron-withdrawing abilities to develop a series of luminescent molecules. The results show that the nonplanar structure based on the eight-membered ring suppresses fluorescence quenching caused by molecular aggregation. As the doping concentration increases, the electroluminescence spectrum remains basically unchanged, indicating that the eight-membered ring structure can effectively suppress the intermolecular interaction. Notably, DCBz-pm exhibits deep blue emission with a Commission Internationale de l’Eclairage (CIE) coordinate of (0.158, 0.046), which nearly meets the BT. 2020 standards. The DCBz-CN device reaches a maximum external quantum efficiency (EQE) of 4.36%. These results offer a new design strategy for improving the performance of OLEDs.
Indole-2-Carboxamide as an Effective Scaffold for the Design of New TRPV1 Agonists
Authors: Maramai Samuele , Mugnaini Claudia , Paolino Marco , Schiano Moriello Aniello , De Petrocellis Luciano , Corelli Federico , Aiello Francesca , Brizzi Antonella
Published: February 2025

Due to its central role in pain, inflammation, and related disorders, the Transient Receptor Potential (TPR) Vanilloid Type-1 (TRPV1) ion channel represents an attractive target for the development of novel antinociceptive and anti-inflammatory agents. Capsaicin, the natural component of chili peppers, is one of the most investigated agonists of this receptor. Several modifications of its structure have been attempted, aiming at finding TRPV1 agonists with improved characteristics, but, to date, no capsaicin-derived agents have reached the market. Based on our previous knowledge of the design and synthesis of TRPV1 agonists, in this paper we propose two small series of indole-2-carboxamides as novel and selective agonists for this ion channel. The newly developed compounds have been structurally characterized and tested in vitro for their ability to modulate TRPV1, in terms of efficacy, potency (EC50), and desensitization (IC50) properties. For the most promising derivatives, selectivity over the TRP ankyrin-1 (TRPA1) channel has been reported. From our study, compound 6g arose as a promising candidate for further evaluation, also in correlation with its in silico-predicted drug-like properties.
SNAP Participation as a Moderator of Food and Nutrition Security and Combined Cardiometabolic Conditions: A Mixed Regression Approach
Authors: Almohamad Maha , Li Ruosha , Heredia Natalia I. , Dave Jayna M. , Calloway Eric E. , Sharrief Anjail , Sharma Shreela V.
Published: February 2025

Objectives: To examine the relationships between food security, nutrition security, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation, and cardiometabolic outcomes, including hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes, among low-income U.S. individuals. Methods: A cross-sectional survey of 486 participants (April–June 2021) assessed food and nutrition security and cardiometabolic outcomes. Mixed-effects logistic regression models adjusted for covariates and included a random effect for state of residence. Moderation analyses evaluated SNAP participation’s impact. Results: Very low food security was associated with higher odds of having at least one cardiometabolic condition, such as hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or diabetes (AOR = 1.96; 95% CI: 1.04–3.69; p = 0.04). SNAP moderated this relationship (p-interaction = 0.007), with non-participants experiencing significantly higher risk. Non-SNAP participants with very low food security had 3.17 (95% CI = 1.17–8.61) times higher odds of having a cardiometabolic condition. Among SNAP participants, very low food security was not significantly associated with having a cardiometabolic condition (OR = 1.62; 95% CI = 0.64–4.13). Higher nutrition security was associated with lower odds of having at least one cardiometabolic condition (AOR = 0.59; 95% CI: 0.41–0.83; p = 0.002). Conclusions: Nutrition security and SNAP participation mitigate cardiometabolic risks, underscoring their importance in public health interventions.
Nitrogen and Phosphorus Co-Fertilization Affects Pinus yunnanensis Seedling Distribution of Non-Structural Carbohydrates in Different Organs After Coppicing
Authors: Sun He , Wang Yu , Chen Lin , Cai Nianhui , Xu Yulan
Published: February 2025

The effects of nutritional additions on the non-structural carbohydrates (NSCs) of Pinus yunnanensis Franch. following coppicing were examined in this work. Three levels of phosphorous (P) addition, namely P0 (0 g/plant), P (2 g/plant), and P+ (4 g/plant), and two levels of nitrogen (N) additions, namely N0 (0 g/plant) and N+ (0.6 g/plant) The treatments consisted of D1 (N0P), D2 (N+P0), D3 (N0P), D4 (N+P), D5 (N0P), and D6 (N+P+), utilizing an orthogonal design to assess how these nutrients influence NSC levels and their components throughout many plant organs in P. yunnanensis. The findings showed that fertilization enhanced NSCs and their components’ contents in P. yunnanensis. P treatment greatly raised NSC levels in sprouts as well as starch (ST) content in stems and sprouts. N treatment greatly raised soluble sugar (SS) and NSC content in stems and greatly accelerated the contents of NSCs and their components in sprouts. The combined application of N and P further improved SS content in stems. Fertilization effects varied over time, with significant increases in NSC content observed at different stages: at 0 d, fertilization significantly raised NSCs and their components in needles; at 90 d, roots and stems showed increases in both NSCs and their components’ contents; at 180 d, stem ST content significantly increased; and at 270 d, NSCs and their components’ contents across all organs were significantly increased. Especially in roots, stems, and sprouts, the combined N (0.6 g/plant) and P (2.0 g/plant) treatment (D4) produced the highest NSC concentration among the treatments. This suggested that NSC formation in plants might be greatly promoted by a balanced N and P fertilization ratio acting in concert. Moreover, fertilizer, as part of a general management plan, has long-term and significant benefits on plant development, especially after coppicing, accelerating recovery, expanding growth potential, and thereby strengthening the plant’s capacity to adapt to environmental changes.
Pharmacological Significance, Medicinal Use, and Toxicity of Extracted and Isolated Compounds from Euphorbia Species Found in Southern Africa: A Review
Authors: Kgosiemang Ipeleng Kopano Rosinah , Lefojane Relebohile , Adegoke Ayodeji Mathias , Ogunyemi Oludare , Mashele Samson Sitheni , Sekhoacha Mamello Patience
Published: February 2025

This study documents the Euphorbiaceae family of plants in Southern Africa, with a focus on their traditional medicinal applications, pharmacological properties, toxicity, and active secondary metabolites. A review of the literature from scientific journals, books, dissertations, and conference papers spanning from 1962 to 2023 was conducted for 15 Euphorbia species. Recent findings indicate that specific compounds found in Euphorbia plants exhibit significant biological and pharmacological properties. However, the white sticky latex sap they contain is highly toxic, although it may also have medicinal applications. Phytochemical analyses have demonstrated that these plants exhibit beneficial effects, including antibacterial, antioxidant, antiproliferative, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antifungal, and anti-HIV activities. Key phytochemicals such as euphol, cycloartenol, tirucallol, and triterpenoids contribute to their therapeutic efficacy, along with various proteins like lectin and lysozyme. Despite some Euphorbiaceae species undergoing screening for medicinal compounds, many remain insufficiently examined, highlighting a critical gap in the research literature. Given their historical usage, further investigations are essential to evaluate the medicinal significance of Euphorbia species through detailed studies of isolated compounds and their pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This research will serve as a valuable resource for future inquiries into the benefits of lesser-studied Euphorbia species.
Three-Dimensional Ordering of Nematic Liquid Crystals with Azimuth and Tilt Controlled by Patterned Photoalignment and Selective Polymer Stabilization
Authors: Kajkowska Marta , Chychłowski Miłosz Sławomir , Ptaszek Michał , Ertman Sławomir
Published: February 2025

In this paper, we present a novel approach for advanced, three-dimensional patterned ordering of nematic liquid crystals. Our method allows for simultaneous control of azimuth and tilt of molecules by using a two-step process based on patterned photoalignment (used to define azimuth) followed by selective polymer stabilization of molecules reorientated with an electric field (used to define tilt). We demonstrate that those two subsequent processes, realized with high-resolution patterned illumination with UV light, allow us to obtain multiple microdomains with independently controlled tilt and azimuth. It opens possibilities to create complex three-dimensional distributions of director within a single liquid crystal cell, which is impossible with any other technique so far. Moreover, although the polymer-stabilization process is used, it is still possible to retune the tilt of the molecules; however, the electric field intensity needed for tuning is slightly higher than in the non-polymerized areas of the sample.