bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Panzerina lanata accelerates methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus eradication by promoting migration and activation of neutrophils
Authors: Dong Shuai , Bai Xingyuan , Chen Bin , Fan Minzhe , Liu Qi , Zhao Yubo , Li Linsen , Zhu Dan
Published: January 2025

Background

Panzerina lanata (Lanata) is generally used to treat pustule infection in Inner Mongolia folk medicine and is called “the holy medicine for pustule.” However, the pharmacological mechanism of Lanata in treating pustule infection is still unclear.

Aims

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effects of Lanata on skin infection and explore the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

A skin wound methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infection mouse model was established to evaluate the healing effect of Lanata on infected wounds. In vitro assays were also conducted to determine the antibacterial activity of Lanata. Flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry were used to dynamically detect the number of neutrophils in the bone marrow, peripheral blood, and MRSA-infected wound. Protein expression in the infected wound skin was detected by a protein chip. Using an air pouch MRSA infection mouse model, the number of neutrophils, reactive oxygen species (ROS) level in neutrophils, and neutrophil extracellular trap (NET) formation were dynamically detected by flow cytometry and immunofluorescence. RNA-seq, RT-qPCR, flow cytometry, ELISA, and CXC chemokine receptor 2 (CXCR2) and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand-1 (PSGL-1) inhibitors were used to explore the mechanism of Lanata in regulating neutrophils.

Results

In vitro assays showed that Lanata had no direct antibacterial activity. In skin wound MRSA-infected mouse, Lanata promoted the rapid migration of neutrophils from the bone marrow via peripheral blood to the wound site to eradicate MRSA in the acute stage of infection and accelerate wound healing. Skin protein chip analysis showed that Lanata upregulated CXCR2 and PSGL-1 protein levels in skin wounds. Furthermore, analysis using the air pouch MRSA infection mouse model found that Lanata not only promoted the rapid migration of neutrophils from peripheral blood to the air pouch but also enhanced the activation of neutrophils, including the increase of ROS and the release of NETs, and upregulated the expression of CXCR2, PSGL-1, and myeloperoxidase (MPO) in neutrophils. Inhibition of CXCR2 and MPO significantly attenuated the effect of Lanata on promoting migration and activation of neutrophils.

Conclusion

Panzerina lanata resists MRSA infection by promoting migration and activation of neutrophils to rapidly eradicate MRSA.
Current status and prospects of traditional Chinese medicine combined with stem cell therapy for chronic kidney disease
Authors: Qian Tianyang , He Yining , Han Chao , Yan Ruxue , He Weiming
Published: January 2025

Renal fibrosis is one of the main pathological features of chronic kidney disease (CKD), and its treatment has been a hot research topic. Recent studies have shown that stem cell therapy can repair renal pathological changes and slow the progression of CKD. In addition, a large number of experiments have confirmed that traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), especially Chinese medicine compound preparations, has the advantage of multitargeting interventions to improve renal fibrosis. Therefore, stem cell therapy combined with TCM is expected to provide new therapeutic ideas and measures to solve kidney problems. This article reviews the current status of TCM combined with stem cell therapy for CKD, discusses existing problems, and proposes future prospects.
Therapeutic potential of rutin in premenstrual depression: evidence from in vivo and in vitro studies
Authors: Wang Xiangjun , Xia Xiaowen , Song Xianliang , Zhou Yi , Ma Mingyu , Ren Yashuang , Chen Xitai , Xia Zenghui , Guo Yinghui , Song Chunhong
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD) is a cyclical mood disorder that severely affects the daily life of women of reproductive age. Most of the medications being used clinically have limitations such as low efficacy, side effects, and high cost, so there is an urgent need to discover safer and more effective medications. Rutin is a natural flavonol glycoside with various pharmacological properties including antidepressant. The study of the efficacy and mechanism of action of rutin in PMDD-depressed subtype model rats plays an important role in the discovery of new drugs for the treatment of PMDD.

Methods

Binding of rutin to gamma-aminobutyric acid type A receptors (GABAA receptors) was probed using molecular docking, microscale thermophoresis, radioactive receptor ligand binding assay and cell membrane clamp experiment. Behavioral tests in mice were performed to screen the optimal dose of rutin. Behavioral tests were performed to evaluate the effects of rutin on depressed mood, memory impairment, and social impairment in PMDD-depressed subtype model rats. HE staining and Golgi staining were performed to observe the neuronal damage in rat hippocampus. UHPLC-MS/MS targeted metabolomics was performed to detect the changes of neurotransmitter content in rat hippocampus. PCR array to detect the effect of rutin on mRNA expression of GABAA receptor partial subunits in rat hippocampus.

Results

The docking score of rutin with the GABAA receptor benzodiazepine site was −11.442 and the gliding score was −11.470. The Kd of rutin with the GABAA receptor (α1β2γ2) was 1.17 ± 0.89 μM. Rutin competed with [H3]-flunitrazepam for the GABAA receptor benzodiazepine site and inhibited the inward flow of chloride ions (P < 0.05). In PMDD-depressed subtype rats, rutin alleviated depressed mood, memory impairment and social impairment, ameliorated hippocampal neuronal damage and reduces gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and acetylcholine (ACh) levels (P < 0.05). Moreover, we found that rutin did not affect the relative mRNA expression of GABAA receptor subunits in rat hippocampus.

Discussion

Overall, rutin alleviated depressed mood, memory impairment and social impairment in PMDD-depressed subtype rats, which may be related to binding to GABAA receptor benzodiazepine sites, inhibiting chloride ions inward flow, ameliorating hippocampal neuronal damage and reducing GABA and ACh levels. The results of this study provide an experimental basis and scientific evidence for the development of new drugs for the treatment of PMDD.
Is it possible to talk about violence climate in grassroots sport? A study on the psychosocial adaptations of young athletes
Authors: González-Hernández Juan , Gómez-López Manuel , Carlo Gustavo , Manzano-Sánchez David
Published: January 2025

Introduction

There is a need for greater scientific attention to research on violence (e.g., insults, intimidation, beatings) in contexts where such behaviors are prevalent. The agonizing win-lose vision that oftentimes is characteristic of sports competition is not understood in the same way in grassroots sports as in professional sports. Although increasingly frequent, the federative systems for young athletes replicate professional competitions, and the agonizing win-lose vision and psychosocial agents that characterize sports competitions do not impact grassroots sports in the same way as in professional sports. The present study aimed to establish a predictive model of the influence of exposure to violence in initiation sports on peer social relations under competitive situations in young athletes.

Method

Through a descriptive, non-randomized, and associative study, a sample of 503 young athletes (Mage = 14.76 1 ± 72 years; 54.80% girls) was recollected, belonging to different Spanish sports centres who completed instruments designed to identify their exposure to violence, prosocial and aggressive tendencies among peers, and competitiveness.

Results

The results show that increased exposure to violence in sports amplifies those effects that excessive motivation for success and external influences, increases the likelihood of aggressive behaviors in young athletes (mainly in boys), while the emergence of prosocial skills in both boys and girls reduces aggressiveness and exposure to violent behaviors.

Discussion

For this reason, to offer a more than relevant background in reducing the effects of excessive competitiveness in grassroots sport, scientific contributions on the protective efficacy of prosocial tendencies against the emergence of aggressive behavior. In addition, contemplating the sociological analysis of the proliferation of insults, harassment, and violent behavior (e.g., observed behaviors or victimization) experienced in sports at very early ages will allow, in a more applied vision, the convenience of designing more psycho-educational sport practice strategies (e.g., social skills integrated into sports action, fair play) both for young athletes and for those adults who accompany them (e.g., parents, coaches, managers).

Conclusion

Addressing the effects of excessive competitiveness and violence in grassroots sports requires a comprehensive approach involving both sociological analysis and applied psycho-educational interventions.
Capturing crisis dynamics: a novel personalized approach using multilevel hidden Markov modeling
Authors: Aarts Emmeke , Montagne Barbara , van der Meer Thomas J. , Hagenaars Muriel A.
Published: January 2025

Background

Prevention of (suicidal) crisis starts with appreciating its dynamics. However, crisis is a complex multidimensional phenomenon and how it evolves over time is still poorly understood. This study aims to clarify crisis dynamics by clustering fluctuations in the interplay of cognitive, affective, and behavioral (CAB) crisis factors within persons over time into latent states.

Methods

To allow for fine grained information on CAB factors over a prolonged period of time, ecological momentary assessment data comprised of self-report questionnaires (3 × daily) on five CAB symptoms (self-control, negative affect, contact avoidance, contact desire and suicidal ideation) was collected in twenty-six patients (60 measurements per patient). Empirically-derived crisis states and personalized state dynamics were isolated utilizing multilevel hidden Markov models.

Results

In this proof-of-concept study, four distinct and ascending CAB-based crisis states were derived. At the sample level, remaining within the current CAB crisis state from one five-hour interval to the next was most likely, with staying likeliness decreasing with ascending states. When residing in CAB crisis state 2 or higher, it was least likely to transition back to CAB crisis state 1. However, large patient heterogeneity was observed both in the tendency to remain within a certain CAB crisis state and transitioning between crisis states.

Conclusion

The uncovered crisis states using multilevel HMM quantify and visualize the pattern of crisis trajectories at the patient individual level. The observed differences between patients underlines the need for future innovation in personalized crisis prevention, and statistical models that facilitate such a personalized approach.
Prevalence, risk and resilience factors of mental health conditions among female sex workers: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kalinowski Olivia , Lotysh Anastasiia , Kaya Gizem , Kroehn-Liedtke Franziska , Zerbe Lena Karoline , Mihaylova Hristiana , Sipos Krisztina , Rössler Wulf , Schouler-Ocak Meryam
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Female sex workers are a vulnerable hard-to-reach group. Research in this field is scarce due to several issues, such as methodological difficulties or societal stigmatization. Most of the available literature focuses on sexually transmittable diseases. This review and meta-analysis aim to compile literature on the mental health of female sex workers. We investigated the prevalence of as well as risk factors for mental disease among female sex workers globally.

Methods

Utilizing Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, we conducted a comprehensive search across several databases, ultimately analyzing data from 80 studies comprising 24,675 individuals in total.

Results

Most of the studies stemmed from the United States (n = 24), followed by China (n = 12), India (n = 7) and Kenya (n = 5). Four studies were conducted in South Africa and three in Mexico. Two studies originated from Australia, Cambodia, Thailand, the Netherlands, and Uganda. Single studies were identified from Scotland, Switzerland, Israel, Portugal, Mongolia, Malawi, Cameroon, Ukraine, Togo, Lebanon, the Dominican Republic, Tanzania, Puerto Rico, Ethiopia, and Moldova. The review highlights significant heterogeneity in the prevalence of mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, suicidality, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), substance use and dependence, investigating the influence of socio-economic, legal, and individual factors on these outcomes. The meta-analysis reveals that while factors like legal status of sex work and economic conditions did not show any impact, specific demographic characteristics, notably female sex workers living with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), migrant female sex workers, or female sex workers engaged in substance use, exhibit notably higher mental health challenges.

Discussion

These findings suggest the critical need for targeted mental health interventions and policy reforms that consider the complex interplay of various factors affecting sex workers. Future research should focus on under-researched regions and subgroups within this population to enhance understanding and support the development of comprehensive health services.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO, CRD42022312737, available from: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42022312737.
Experiences at recovery community centers predict holistic recovery outcomes: a daily diary assessment of RCC helpfulness, meaningfulness, and recovery identity
Authors: Apsley Hannah B. , Lancaster Joseph , Ren Wen , Brick Timothy , Cleveland H. H.
Published: January 2025

Introduction

Recovery community centers (RCCs) offer various support services to people in addiction recovery, such as hosting mutual help meetings and sober social activities and providing employment support and recovery coaching. To date, very little is known about RCCs and their relationship with recovery outcomes, as well as how RCCs may vary in helpfulness from visit to visit. This study used a daily diary approach to assess the intraindividual variation of daily RCC helpfulness, and whether RCC helpfulness predicted the holistic recovery indices of daily meaningfulness and recovery identity.

Methods and materials

RCC attendees (analytical N = 88) from RCCs in Pennsylvania completed daily diary assessments using a smartphone application, for 10 consecutive days. If participants reported that they had spent time at the RCC that day, they then reported the perceived helpfulness of the RCC visit using 7 items. Participants also reported their daily meaningfulness and recovery identity. Ultimately, participants visited their RCC on 247/799 (30.9%) of all reported study days. Multilevel models were used to assess the hypotheses.

Results

Participants generally reported that their RCC visits were very helpful (M = 87.13 [scale of 0–100], SD = 13.26). Nearly half of the variation in RCC helpfulness was attributable to intraindividual variation (ICC = 0.51). Multilevel models revealed that both interindividual and intraindividual RCC experiences predicted increased holistic recovery outcomes, over the prior day. Individuals’ mean levels of perceived RCC helpfulness, as well as person-mean-centered RCC daily helpfulness, positively predicted daily meaningfulness and recovery identity.

Conclusion

RCCs predict the holistic recovery outcomes of meaningfulness and recovery identity outcomes on the particular days that the RCCs are visited, and for the individuals who find RCCs more helpful overall. This study offers preliminary evidence to suggest that RCCs are appropriate recipients of public funding intended to support recovery in US communities.
Exploring the influencing factors of patients sending red packets and the necessity of doctor-patient red packet agreements
Authors: Li Pingli , Wu Lixiang , Zhang Jie , Xiang Surong , Fang Li
Published: January 2025

Objective

To investigate the influencing factors of inpatients giving red packets to doctors and explore the necessity of doctor-patient red packet agreements.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was conducted among inpatients and their families who were hospitalized in several hospitals in Chengdu from January to June 2023. The survey asked about the patients’ (or their families’) attitudes and opinions on whether it was necessary to give red packets to doctors during hospitalization.

Results

The vast majority of patients (80.7%) thought that it was not necessary to give red packets to doctors, and 87.0% of patients had never given red packets. 59.7% of patients chose senior doctors as the recipients of red packets, and 90.0% of patients thought that it was necessary to give red packets to doctors in 3A-grade hospitals. Patients’ attitudes toward giving red packets were positively influenced by their education level and previous experience of giving red packets.

Conclusion

Despite education level and previous experience of giving red packets were all positive influencing factors for patients giving red packets, the proportion of patients who had given or intended to give red packets was relatively low. The majority of patients believed that giving red packets was unnecessary, and they held the view that doctors would not treat them less actively if they did not receive red packets. The question of whether signing a red packet agreement is necessary is worth contemplating at this time.
Radiation knowledge and anxiety levels among residents proximity to the world’s first AP1000 nuclear power unit
Authors: Guo Jiadi , Xuan Zhiqiang , Lei Cuiping , Zheng Taotao , Lai Zhongjun , Hao Xiaoji , Yu Shunfei , Cao Yiyao
Published: January 2025

Objective

Assess the level of radiation-related knowledge (RRK) and nuclear energy-related knowledge (NERK) among residents near the Sanmen Nuclear Power Plant, the first project adopted the Advanced Passive Pressurized Water Reactor (AP1000) technology.

Methods

In this study, respondents were selected using stratified multi-stage random sampling for residents aged 18 years and above living within 30 kilometers of the Sanmen Nuclear Power Station. Respondents were surveyed face-to-face by investigators who received standardized training. The results of the survey were collated and analysed to assess the RRK and NERK levels of the respondents from both subjective and objective perspectives, and the anxiety levels were assessed using the Likert Scale. Factors affecting RRK, NERK and anxiety levels of residents were analysed using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

The study interviewed 751 individuals. Participants correctly answered an average of 2.76 out of 7 objective radiation knowledge questions, yielding a 39.4% RRK cognition rate. For nuclear energy knowledge, the average was 2.14 out of 7, resulting in a 30.5% NERK cognition rate. Spearman’s correlation and multiple linear regression analyses revealed that higher education and younger age were positively correlated with RRK and NERK. Gender significantly influenced NERK, with males scoring higher than females. Anxiety levels were inversely related to age and directly related to education. Regression analyses also indicated that occupation affected nuclear-related anxiety, and married and unmarried individuals exhibited higher anxiety levels than widowed individuals.

Conclusion

Residents near the Sanmen Nuclear Power Station showed improvements in RRK and NERK, but levels remained low. Both RRK and NERK correlated with age and education, while NERK was also linked to gender. Anxiety among residents was associated with age, education, occupation, and marital status. These findings highlight the need for improved public education on RRK and NERK, effective engagement strategies, and measures to address residents’ anxiety to enhance decision-making and social trust regarding nuclear safety.
Comparison of dark-field chest radiography and CT for the assessment of COVID-19 pneumonia
Authors: Gassert Florian T. , Bast Henriette , Urban Theresa , Frank Manuela , Gassert Felix G. , Willer Konstantin , Schick Rafael C. , Renger Bernhard , Koehler Thomas , Karrer Alexandra , Sauter Andreas P. , Fingerle Alexander A. , Makowski Marcus R. , Pfeiffer Franz , Pfeiffer Daniela
Published: January 2025

Background

Dark-field chest radiography allows the assessment of the structural integrity of the alveoli by exploiting the wave properties of x-rays.

Purpose

To compare the qualitative and quantitative features of dark-field chest radiography in patients with COVID-19 pneumonia with conventional CT imaging.

Materials and methods

In this prospective study conducted from May 2020 to December 2020, patients aged at least 18 years who underwent chest CT for clinically suspected COVID-19 infection were screened for participation. Inclusion criteria were a CO-RADS score ≥4, the ability to consent to the procedure and to stand upright without help. Participants were examined with a clinical dark-field chest radiography prototype. For comparison, a healthy control cohort of 40 subjects was evaluated. Using Spearman's correlation coefficient, correlation was tested between dark-field coefficient and CT-based COVID-19 index and visual total CT score as well as between the visual total dark-field score and the visual total CT score.

Results

A total of 98 participants [mean age 58 ± 14 (standard deviation) years; 59 men] were studied. The areas of signal intensity reduction observed in dark-field images showed a strong correlation with infiltrates identified on CT scans. The dark-field coefficient had a negative correlation with both the quantitative CT-based COVID-19 index (r = −.34, p = .001) and the overall CT score used for visual grading of COVID-19 severity (r = −.44, p < .001). The total visual dark-field score for the presence of COVID-19 was positively correlated to the total CT score for visual COVID-19 severity grading (r = .85, p < .001).

Conclusion

COVID-19 pneumonia-induced signal intensity losses in dark-field chest radiographs are consistent with CT-based findings, showing the technique's potential for COVID-19 assessment.
Perspective on the role of norms for institutional behavior and policy design in European cross-border regions
Authors: Svensson Sara
Published: January 2025

The article analyses how a norm scientific perspective can advance our understanding of cross-border regions and guide future directions of research. Cross-border regions are territorial spaces comprising territory from two or more national states, located directly at the borders of those spaces. Since the 1950s it has become increasingly common that cross-border organizations, constituted by local municipalities and regional authorities and sometimes private entities, are established to coordinate governance processes around shared policy problems. These organizations fit into a Type II model of European multi-level governance as complex, fluid, and carried out in overlapping jurisdictions. A norm scientific perspective focuses on joint expectations as a primary predictor of behavior and thereby on social structures as well as social transformations. In accordance with institutional theory, norms are understood as intersubjective, widely shared, but often implicit, expectations and rules that guide human behavior. The article makes two arguments. First, it argues that a norm-scientific perspective has the potential to significantly advance the scientific community's understanding of various aspects related to how cross-border cooperation emergence and functioning. Second, it argues that cross-border regions constitute a promising venue to advance the knowledge of how norms can be studied and understood.
Advancing presurgical non-invasive spread through air spaces prediction in clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma using artificial intelligence and CT signatures
Authors: Ye Guanchao , Wu Guangyao , Li Yiying , Zhang Chi , Qin Lili , Wu Jianlin , Fan Jun , Qi Yu , Yang Fan , Liao Yongde
Published: January 2025

Background

To accurately identify spread through air spaces (STAS) in clinical stage IA lung adenocarcinoma, our study developed a non-invasive and interpretable biomarker combining clinical and radiomics features using preoperative CT.

Methods

The study included a cohort of 1,325 lung adenocarcinoma patients from three centers, which was divided into four groups: a training cohort (n = 930), a testing cohort (n = 238), an external validation 1 cohort (n = 93), and 2 cohort (n = 64). We collected clinical characteristics and semantic features, and extracted radiomics features. We utilized the LightGBM algorithm to construct prediction models using the selected features. Quantifying the contribution of radiomics features of CT to prediction model using Shapley additive explanations (SHAP) method. The models' performance was evaluated using metrics such as the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), negative predictive value (NPV), positive predictive value (PPV), sensitivity, specificity, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA).

Results

In the training cohort, the clinical model achieved an AUC value of 0.775, the radiomics model achieved an AUC value of 0.836, and the combined model achieved an AUC value of 0.837. In the testing cohort, the AUC values of the models were 0.743, 0.755, and 0.768. In the external validation 1 cohort, the AUC values of the models were 0.717, 0.758, and 0.765, while in the external validation 2 cohort, 0.725, 0.726 and 0.746. The DeLong test results indicated that the combined model outperformed the clinical model (p < 0.05). DCA indicated that the models provided a net benefit in predicting STAS. The SHAP algorithm explains the contribution of each feature in the model, visually demonstrating the impact of each feature on the model's decisions.

Conclusion

The combined model has the potential to serve as a biomarker for predicting STAS using preoperative CT scans, determining the appropriate surgical strategy, and guiding the extent of resection.
Trends in InsurTech Development in Korea: A News Media Analysis of Key Technologies, Players, and Solutions
Authors: Lee Yongsu , Yim Hyosook
Published: January 2025

This study aims to understand how InsurTech has developed in Korea. To achieve this, we collected InsurTech-related news articles published in the Korean media over the past eight years. Using a relatedness analysis based on the TopicRank algorithm, a text-mining technique, we extracted the top keywords associated with InsurTech by year. The extracted keywords were analyzed and discussed in terms of development trends: which technologies gained prominence over time, who the key players were, and what solutions were introduced. The analysis revealed several key trends in InsurTech’s development in Korea. First, regarding changes in InsurTech technology, blockchain and the Internet of Things initially garnered significant attention, but artificial intelligence and big data later emerged as more critical technologies. Second, in terms of market players, government agencies and research institutes initially created forums for discussion, such as seminars to draw social attention to InsurTech. Over time, innovative startups entered the market, general agencies specializing in insurance brokerage gained prominence in the online marketplace, and the entry of Big Tech platforms further diversified the market. Finally, in terms of InsurTech-related insurance solutions, early attention was focused on developing new products. However, the trend gradually shifted toward improving the accessibility and convenience of existing insurance services. Additionally, asset management and payment settlement services—linked to financial services beyond traditional insurance—emerged, along with new concepts such as healthcare, which reshaped the approach to insurance services. This study contributes to understanding how InsurTech has evolved by identifying key trends in emerging technologies, leading market players, and innovations in the insurance value chain. The Korean case provides insights that may help explore similar patterns in other countries.
Antibacterial Efficacy Comparison of Electrolytic and Reductive Silver Nanoparticles Against Propionibacterium acnes
Authors: Suparno Suparno , Prasetyowati Rita , Aziz Khafidh Nur , Rahma Anggarwati , Lestari Eka Sentia Ayu , Nabiilah Siti Chaerani , Grace Deby
Published: January 2025

Background: The aim of this study was to develop an electrolysis system to produce silver nanoparticles free from toxic gases, as the most common reduction and electrolysis techniques produce nitrogen dioxide (NO2) as a byproduct, which is harmful to human health. The new electrolysis system used two identical silver plate electrodes, replacing silver and carbon rods, and used water as the electrolyte instead of silver nitrate (AgNO3) solution since AgNO3 is the source of NO2. Methods: The electrolytic silver nanoparticles (ESNs) produced by the new system were characterized and compared with reductive silver nanoparticles (RSNs). Using UV–Visible spectrophotometry, absorption peaks were found at 425 nm (ESN) and 437 nm (RSN). Using dynamic light scattering, the particle diameters were measured at 40.3 nm and 39.9 nm for ESNs at concentrations of 10 ppm and 30 ppm, respectively, and 74.0 nm and 74.6 nm for RSNs at concentrations of 10 ppm and 30 ppm, respectively. Antibacterial activity against Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes) was assessed using the Kirby–Bauer method. Results: It was found that the efficacy of ESNs and RSNs was relatively lower than that of 5% chloramphenicol because it was measured in different concentration units (ESNs and RSNs in ppm and chloramphenicol in %). Using the calibration curve, the efficacy of 5% chloramphenicol was comparable to that of 0.005% ESN. It was also found that P. acnes developed a strong resistance to chloramphenicol and showed no resistance to ESNs. Conclusions: This finding underlines the tremendous potential of ESNs as a future antibiotic raw material.
The Head Pendant from the Marchetti Collection: Phoenicio-Punic Glass or Modern Forgery?
Authors: Malaman Elisabetta , Bettineschi Cinzia , Angelini Ivana , Salvadori Monica
Published: January 2025

This article focuses on the archaeological and archaeometric characterization of a glass head pendant in Phoenicio-Punic style from the Marchetti Collection, a formerly private assemblage now belonging to the University of Padova. After the first visual inspection, the typology and appearance of the object raised serious doubts about its authenticity. For this reason, an integrated approach combining stylistic and typo-chronological analyses with archaeometric data was implemented for reconstructing the manufacturing techniques and identifying the raw materials used (i.e., silica source, flux composition, and colouring and opacifying agents). The analytical techniques used include stereomicroscopy (SM) to identify the production techniques, OM, SEM-EDS, and µ-Raman for textural and chemico-mineralogical investigations. The archaeological study and the comparison of our analytical results with the data published in the scientific literature agree in confirming that the investigated object is a forgery, as already demonstrated for other pieces from the same collection.
Developing a GIS Model for Identifying Bear Corridors with Open-Source Data: The Romanian Context
Authors: Roșca Sanda , Chira Alexandru , Vescan Iuliu , Bilașco Ștefan , Fodorean Ioan , Barta András-István , Ceuca Vasile , Sestraș Paul
Published: January 2025

The brown bear (Ursus arctos arctos) is the only bear species on the Romanian territory, its natural habitat occupying a third of the country’s surface, including the entire mountain area as well as the hills in the immediate vicinity. The bear population in Romania is the largest in Europe, increasing every year due to legislative protection, the species being present in Annex II of the Habitats Directive. The fragmentation of the bears’ habitat is the main cause of conflict occurrences between bears and the human population, which have occurred increasingly often in recent years. The main aim of this study is the ecological diagnosis of lands populated with bears in Romania to identify the highest quality habitats within the hunting grounds and to identify possible ecological corridors aimed at preserving the connectivity between them, using GIS spatial analysis techniques and taking into account the ecological conditions needed for the brown bear to survive. Following the spatial modelling of the open-source data, it was possible to observe the presence of habitats of the highest quality that could support a bear population outside the areas where bear specimens are concentrated (the counties of Mureș, Bistrița, Harghita, Covasna, Neamț, Buzau, Vrancea, Prahova, Brașov, Sibiu, and Argeș). The analysis of these habitats, where the bear population has exceeded the optimal level that they can support, highlighted that to allow the passage of bear specimens from one habitat to another, it is necessary to create ecological corridors in several key areas deducted on the basis of mathematical models.
A Deep Multi-Task Learning Model for OD Traffic Flow Prediction Between Highway Stations
Authors: Zhang Yaofang , Chen Jian , Rao Jianying
Published: January 2025

The rapid development of highways greatly affects the flow of people, finance, goods, and information between cities, and monitoring the OD flow of travel has become a very important task for intelligent transportation systems (ITS). The temporal dynamics and complex spatial correlations of OD traffic distribution, as well as the sparsity and incompleteness of data caused by uneven traffic distribution, make OD traffic prediction complex and challenging. This paper proposes a multi-task prediction model for OD traffic between highway stations. The model adopts a hard parameter shared multi-task learning network structure, which is divided into sub-task learning inflow trend modules, sub-task learning outflow trend modules, and main task learning modules for OD traffic. At the same time, the attraction intensity matrix between stations is constructed using the population density data as the external feature of the sub-task module for outlet outflow flow, and stronger constraints between tasks are introduced to achieve better fitting results. Finally, an OD flow prediction case experiment was conducted between stations on highways in Sichuan Province. The experimental results showed that the proposed model not only had higher accuracy in predicting results than other baseline models, but also had better effectiveness and robustness.
Influence of Heat Treatment on Properties and Microstructure of EN AW-6082 Aluminium Alloy Drawpieces After Single-Point Incremental Sheet Forming
Authors: Kuczek Łukasz , Żaba Krzysztof , Trzepieciński Tomasz , Wąsikowski Mateusz , Balcerzak Maciej , Sitek Ryszard
Published: January 2025

An EN AW-6082 aluminium alloy is one of the 6000 series aluminium alloys with the highest strength properties. Due to its favourable strength-to-density ratio, it is used, among others, in the automotive and aviation applications. It is also characterised by good formability, especially in the annealed condition. This article presents the results of investigations on the possibility of forming a 2 mm thick EN AW-6082 alloy sheet using the incremental sheet-forming process depending on the material condition (O, W, T4, T6). The microstructure of the material after heat treatment and the mechanical properties of the workpiece material in as-received state, as well as after forming, were examined. Additionally, for selected cases, additional heat treatment of the drawpieces was performed to improve their mechanical strength. The values of the limit-forming angle were determined for the materials tested. The values of this angle varied from 69° for the annealed sheet to 61° for the material in the T6 condition. The highest yield stress (YS) and ultimate tensile strength (UTS) were found for sheets (YS = 305 MPs and UTS = 324 MPa) and the artificially aged drawpieces (YS = 333 MPa and UTS = 390 MPa). Additional ageing after incremental sheet forming resulted in an increase in strength properties compared to drawpieces without additional heat treatment only in the case of drawpieces made of sheet metal after the solutionising and in T4 condition.
Machine Learning Methods for Weather Forecasting: A Survey
Authors: Zhang Huijun , Liu Yaxin , Zhang Chongyu , Li Ningyun
Published: January 2025

Weather forecasting, a vital task for agriculture, transportation, energy, etc., has evolved significantly over the years. Comprehensive surveys play a crucial role in synthesizing knowledge, identifying trends, and addressing emerging challenges in this dynamic field. In this survey, we critically examines machine learning (ML)-based weather forecasting methods, which demonstrate exceptional capability in handling complex, high-dimensional datasets and leveraging large volumes of historical and real-time data, enabling the identification of subtle patterns and relationships among weather variables. Research on specific tasks such as global weather forecasting, downscaling, extreme weather prediction, and how to combine machine learning methods with physical principles are very active in the current field. However, several unresolved or challenging issues remain, including the interpretability of models and the ability to predict rare weather events. By identifying these gaps, this research provides a roadmap for advancing machine learning-based weather forecasting techniques to complement and enhance weather prediction results.
Unravelling Lithium Interactions in Non-Flammable Gel Polymer Electrolytes: A Density Functional Theory and Molecular Dynamics Study
Authors: AL-Hamdani Nasser , Saravia Paula V. , Luque Di Salvo Javier , Paz Sergio A. , De Luca Giorgio
Published: January 2025

Lithium metal batteries (LiMBs) have emerged as extremely viable options for next-generation energy storage owing to their elevated energy density and improved theoretical specific capacity relative to traditional lithium batteries. However, safety concerns, such as the flammability of organic liquid electrolytes, have limited their extensive application. In the present study, we utilize molecular dynamics and Density Functional Theory based simulations to investigate the Li interactions in gel polymer electrolytes (GPEs), composed of a 3D cross-linked polymer matrix combined with two different non-flammable electrolytes: 1 M lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF6) in ethylene carbonate (EC)/dimethyl carbonate (DMC) and 1 M lithium bis(fluorosulfonyl)imide (LiFSI) in trimethyl phosphate (TMP) solvents. The findings derived from radial distribution functions, coordination numbers, and interaction energy calculations indicate that Li⁺ exhibits an affinity with solvent molecules and counter-anions over the functional groups on the polymer matrix, highlighting the preeminent influence of electrolyte components in Li⁺ solvation and transport. Furthermore, the second electrolyte demonstrated enhanced binding energies, implying greater ionic stability and conductivity relative to the first system. These findings offer insights into the Li+ transport mechanism at the molecular scale in the GPE by suggesting that lithium-ion transport does not occur by hopping between polymer functional groups but by diffusion into the solvent/counter anion system. The information provided in the work allows for the improvement of the design of electrolytes in LiMBs to augment both safety and efficiency.
Quantum-Cognitive Neural Networks: Assessing Confidence and Uncertainty with Human Decision-Making Simulations
Authors: Maksimovic Milan , Maksymov Ivan S.
Published: January 2025

Contemporary machine learning (ML) systems excel in recognising and classifying images with remarkable accuracy. However, like many computer software systems, they can fail by generating confusing or erroneous outputs or by deferring to human operators to interpret the results and make final decisions. In this paper, we employ the recently proposed quantum tunnelling neural networks (QT-NNs) inspired by human brain processes alongside quantum cognition theory to classify image datasets while emulating human perception and judgment. Our findings suggest that the QT-NN model provides compelling evidence of its potential to replicate human-like decision-making. We also reveal that the QT-NN model can be trained up to 50 times faster than its classical counterpart.
Morphology and Immunoexpression of Selenoproteins in Term Placenta of Alpaca (Vicugna pacos) from the Peruvian Andes
Authors: Navarrete Zamora Miluska Beatriz , Acuña Francisco , Duarte da Silva Mônica , Santos-Silva Thamires , Garcia Matheus Henrique Herminio , Barreto Rodrigo da Silva Nunes , Sato Sato Alberto , Barbeito Claudio Gustavo , Miglino Maria Angelica
Published: January 2025

South American camelids inhabit high-altitude environments characterized by hypoxia, influencing embryonic, fetal, and placental development. This study examined the term placenta morphology of alpacas (Vicugna pacos, N = 12) and the immunoexpression of antioxidant selenoproteins (SP). We hypothesize that the placenta of alpacas, adapted to high altitudes, has characteristics with other species also adapted to altitude. Placentas were paraffin-embedded, sectioned (3–5 µm), stained with hematoxylin–eosin (H&E), Masson’s trichrome, and picrosirius red, and analyzed via light and polarized light microscopy. The chorion showed simple cuboidal epithelium with binucleated cells, a subepithelial mesenchyme rich in blood capillaries (area: 124.90 ± 9.82 µm2), and type III collagen fibers. The chorionic villi measured 2740.22 ± 132.75 µm. The allantois contained a simple columnar epithelium and mesenchyme with type I collagen fibers. Immunohistochemistry localized SP-N, SP-P, Dio-3, and GPx-3 in the blood capillaries and mesenchymal tissue of the chorion but not in the allantois. These findings were compared to human and sheep placentas from different altitudes due to a lack of camelid data at low levels. The morphological features resembled adaptations to hypoxia observed in other species. This preliminary study suggests a potential role for selenoproteins in hypoxia adaptation, providing a basis for future functional studies.
Effect of Y on the Microstructures and Heat-Resistant Property of ZL109 Alloys
Authors: Qin Xiangdu , Li Anmin , Li Xiang
Published: January 2025

The effects of rare earth Y on the microstructures and tensile properties of ZL109 alloys were studied through metallographic observation, scanning electron microanalysis, X-ray diffraction, and tensile experiments, and the existence form and mechanism of Y were analyzed. The results show that the grain size of the ZL109 alloy is obviously reduced and that the strength of the ZL109 alloy is significantly increased after adding the Y element. When the Y content is increased to 0.2 wt.%, the tensile properties of the ZL109 alloy at room temperature and 350 °C are better than those without a rare earth addition, and the comprehensive tensile properties are better. This is due to the addition of the Y element; α-Al dendrites are obviously refined, and there is a tendency for them to change into fine isometric crystals. The size of the eutectic Si decreases, and its shape is modified. The morphology and size of high temperature enhanced phases, such as Al3CuNi, are optimized. The heat-resistant enhanced phase Al2Si2Y is formed after the addition of rare earth Y. However, with the addition of the Y element, the Al2Si2Y phase increases, and coarsening results in the decrease in alloy strength.
Cooling Methods for a Typical Printed Circuit Board Assembly in Spacecraft: Simulation and Experiment
Authors: Wang Sheng , Song Changxu , Zhang Li , Hu Fengjiao , Dong Feng , Liang Dapeng , Liu Jiangtao , Zhang Jingyu , Chen Sihong
Published: January 2025

In this study, cooling methods for a typical spacecraft circuit board assembly are investigated. The power dissipation of the assembly is more than 100 W, and the max heat dissipation of a component is 16 W, making it very difficult to cool the assembly. According to the packaging characteristics and heat dissipation of the components on the circuit board, cooling methods such as potting brackets, cooling springs, and cooling blocks are used, and the effects of various cooling methods are analyzed. Through simulation and experimental research, it is proven that the power components in the printed circuit board assembly meet the requirements of temperature derating, which provides a reference for the thermal design of spacecraft electronic equipment.
PCM-Filled Capsules (RT44HC) for Heat Storage—Laboratory Scale Pilot Study
Authors: Amanowicz Łukasz , Turski Michał
Published: January 2025

Peak power shaving in heating systems can be achieved using heat accumulators, traditionally implemented in the form of water storage tanks. Their heat capacity can be increased by using a phase change material (PCM) instead of water, which, however, usually requires a change in the tank design. The innovation of this paper is an interesting concept to use plastic capsules filled with a PCM that replace part of the water volume in an existing heat accumulator. The aim of this paper is to compare the cooling rate of the same volume of water as that of the water mixed with the PCM capsules to initially verify the heat storage potential of the capsules. The results of pilot experimental studies on a laboratory scale are presented and discussed, showing the potential of this idea for heat storage. The partial replacement of water with capsules (40% of the total volume) results in significantly faster heat accumulation with the same tank volume (3.85 times at the beginning of the process) and more heat stored (decrease in the temperature of water alone by 14 K and water with PCM capsules by 26 K in the same period of time), which gives promising perspectives for the use of this solution on a semitechnical scale and further in a real-size heating system.
Advances and Challenges in Thermoacoustic Network Modeling for Hydrogen and Ammonia Combustors
Authors: Guk Seungmin , Lee Jaehoon , Kim Juwon , Lee Minwoo
Published: January 2025

The transition to low-carbon energy systems has heightened interest in hydrogen and ammonia as sustainable alternatives to traditional hydrocarbon fuels. However, the development and operation of combustors utilizing these fuels, like other combustion systems, are challenged by thermoacoustic instabilities arising from the interaction between unsteady heat release and acoustic wave oscillations. Among many different methods for studying thermoacoustic instabilities, thermoacoustic network models have played an important role in analyzing the essential dynamics of these instabilities in combustors operating with low-carbon fuels. This paper provides a comprehensive review of thermoacoustic network modeling techniques, focusing specifically on their application to hydrogen- and ammonia-based combustion systems. We outline the key mathematical frameworks derived from fundamental equations of motion, along with experimental validations and practical applications documented in existing studies. Furthermore, current research gaps are identified, and future directions are proposed to improve the reliability and effectiveness of thermoacoustic network models, contributing to the advancement of efficient and stable low-carbon combustors.