bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MR T2* Map to Predict Worsening Hypertension Control: A Preliminary Study
Authors: Liu Chun-Hung , Chen Jeon-Hor , Westphalen Antonio Carlos , Chen Chun-Ming , Chang Chih-Ping , Lin Wei-Ching
Published: January 2025

Blood pressure measurement is important in monitoring hypertension. However, blood pressure does not provide much information about renal condition in treated hypertension. This study aimed to evaluate renal oxygenation in hypertensive patients using T2* mapping. Subgroup analysis explored whether R2* values can guide adjustments in antihypertensive treatment. A total of 140 consecutive subjects were recruited: 87 hypertensive subjects and 53 normotensive subjects. Hypertensive subjects were classified into non-medication (non-med), angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), and non-ARB-treated groups. Each group was divided into good and poor control subgroups based on blood pressure at enrollment. T2* mapping was utilized to assess renal cortical and medullary R2* values. After a 2-year follow-up, subjects were categorized into stable and unstable based on the need for treatment modifications. The unstable subgroup had higher medullary R2* values than the stable subgroup in all followed patients (p < 0.05). Additionally, the unstable merged non-med with ARB subgroup had higher medullary R2* values overall (p < 0.05) and within the good control subgroup (p < 0.05). Patients with stable hypertension, especially those with good control managed through lifestyle modifications or ARBs, exhibited lower renal medullary R2* values, suggesting higher renal oxygenation.
Efficient Corona Suppression Coatings and Their Behavior in Corrosive and Icy Environments
Authors: Emelyanenko Kirill A. , Teplonogova Maria A. , Emelyanenko Alexandre M. , Boinovich Ludmila B.
Published: January 2025

High-voltage transmission lines face significant challenges due to environmental exposure, including corona discharge, ice accretion, and corrosion, which impact their durability and operational efficiency. This study investigates the performance of hydrophilic and superhydrophilic organosilane coatings applied to high-voltage wires to address these issues. Using a combination of experimental setups simulating real-world conditions, we evaluated corona discharge losses, ice adhesion, and corrosion resistance on coated and uncoated wires. The results reveal that hydrophilic and superhydrophilic organosilane coatings offer a substantial reduction in corona discharge power losses, with a 25–60% decrease compared to bare wires. Additionally, the proposed hydrophilic coating exhibits ice adhesion characteristics similar to bare wires, in contrast to the higher ice adhesion observed for superhydrophilic samples. Corrosion tests further highlight the performance of the hydrophilic coating, which reduces corrosion currents by approximately threefold compared to bare wires, demonstrating enhanced protection and long-term stability. While superhydrophilic coatings offer some advantages in corona discharge reduction, their increased ice adhesion and higher corrosion rates limit their applicability. The hydrophilic organosilane coating thus emerges as the optimal tradeoff, balancing effective corona discharge mitigation, moderating ice adhesion, and enhancing corrosion resistance, making it a promising solution for improving the performance and longevity of high-voltage transmission lines.
Stability Analysis of Batch Offline Action-Dependent Heuristic Dynamic Programming Using Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Lala Timotei
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the theoretical stability of batch offline action-dependent heuristic dynamic programming (BOADHDP) is analyzed for deep neural network (NN) approximators for both the action value function and controller which are iteratively improved using collected experiences from the environment. Our findings extend previous research on the stability of online adaptive ADHDP learning with single-hidden-layer NNs by addressing the case of deep neural networks with an arbitrary number of hidden layers, updated offline using batched gradient descend updates. Specifically, our work shows that the learning process of the action value function and controller under BOADHDP is uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB), contingent on certain conditions related to NN learning rates. The developed theory demonstrates an inverse relationship between the number of hidden layers and the learning rate magnitude. We present a practical implementation involving a twin rotor aerodynamical system to emphasize the impact difference between the usage of single-hidden-layer and multiple-hidden-layer NN architectures in BOADHDP learning settings. The validation case study shows that BOADHDP with multiple hidden layer NN architecture implementation obtains 0.0034 on the control benchmark, while the single-hidden-layer NN architectures obtain 0.0049, outperforming the former by 1.58% by using the same collected dataset and learning conditions. Also, BOADHDP is compared with online adaptive ADHDP, proving the superiority of the former over the latter, both in terms of controller performance and data efficiency.
A Study of the Creep-Fatigue Damage Mechanism of a P92 Welded Joint Using Nanoindentation Characterization
Authors: Jin Zhangmin , Cai Zhihui , Gu Xuecheng , Wang Zhiqiang , Han Yiwen , Yu Ting , Song Yuxuan , Gao Zengliang , Zheng Zhongrui
Published: January 2025

In fossil fuel and nuclear power plants, welded joints continuously experience creep-fatigue loading, which can result in premature cracking during the in-service term. To study the creep-fatigue interactive (CFI) behavior, the CFI test of P92 steel was performed with different strain rates at 823 K. Results indicate that the short cycle life is measured with the increasing strain rate. Relying on the scanning electron microscope, the fracture mechanism of P92 steel gradually changes from fatigue-dominating to creep-fatigue interactive damage with the increasing strain rate. The hardness (H), elastic modulus (E) and creep deformation were then measured by nanoindentation, and the strain rate sensitivity (m) was estimated. The relation between the degenerated mechanical properties and microstructural evaluations, i.e., enhanced grain size and nucleation of creep voids, was established, and the damage mechanism was discussed.
Impact of Periodontitis and Oral Dysbiosis Metabolites in the Modulation of Accelerating Ageing and Human Senescence
Authors: Amato Mariacristina , Polizzi Alessandro , Viglianisi Gaia , Leonforte Francesco , Mascitti Marco , Isola Gaetano
Published: January 2025

Periodontitis, a chronic multifactorial inflammatory condition of the periodontium, is originated by a dysbiotic oral microbiota and is negatively correlated with several systemic diseases. The low-chronic burden of gingival inflammation not only exacerbates periodontitis but also predisposes individuals to a spectrum of age-related conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, and metabolic dysfunction, especially related to ageing. In this regard, over the local periodontal treatment, lifestyle modifications and adjunctive therapies may offer synergistic benefits in ameliorating both oral and systemic health in ageing populations. Elucidating the intricate connections between periodontitis and senescence is important for understanding oral health’s systemic implications for ageing and age-related diseases. Effective management strategies targeting the oral microbiota and senescent pathways may offer novel avenues for promoting healthy ageing and preventing age-related morbidities. This review will analyze the current literature about the intricate interplay between periodontitis, oral dysbiosis, and the processes of senescence, shedding light on their collective impact on the modulation and accelerated ageing and age-related diseases. Lastly, therapeutic strategies targeting periodontitis and oral dysbiosis to mitigate senescence and its associated morbidities will be discussed.
Immunogenicity of Type IV Pilin Proteins from Clostridium perfringens in Chickens
Authors: Charlebois Audrey , Deslauriers Nicolas , Maduro Lila , Boulianne Martine
Published: January 2025

Clostridium perfringens, the causative agent of necrotic enteritis in chickens, is controlled by in-feed antibiotics. With increasing pressure to reduce antimicrobial use, the development of alternative preventive tools is needed. Type IV pili proteins have been shown to be immunogenic in many Gram-positive bacteria. The aims of this study were to evaluate the immunogenic potential of pilins (PilA1, PilA2 and PilA3) from C. perfringens in chickens and to verify their ability to protect against necrotic enteritis. Chickens were immunized twice with 50 µg of recombinant proteins and adjuvant, resulting in a good and specific serum antibody response. Next, one-day-old chicks were injected three times with the same vaccines, and then infected with C. perfringens. Mean OD450 values ten times higher than the controls were obtained for IgY (p < 0.05) and a significantly lower cecal count of C. perfringens was observed in the birds injected with PilA3. However, no reduction in the severity of intestinal lesions was observed. All three pilin proteins were shown to be highly immunogenic in the chickens. Although immunization with the pilins did not protect the birds against necrotic enteritis in this study, it was interesting to observe that vaccination with the recombinant PilA3 protein reduced C. perfringens cecal colonization.
Nutritional and Microbiome Effects of a Partial Substitution of Poultry Meat with Hydrolyzed Feather Meal in Dog Diets
Authors: Balouei Fatemeh , Stefanon Bruno , Armone Rosangela , Randazzo Andrea , Chiofalo Biagina
Published: January 2025

Two extruded diets isoenergetic, isonitrogenous, and isolipidic were formulated with poultry meal (control diet) as the source of animal-origin proteins (160 g/kg of feed) or with 90 g/kg of poultry meal and 70 g/kg of hydrolyzed feather meal (treated diet) and were fed to eight dogs (four adult female and four adult male English Setters). Body condition, muscle condition, and fecal consistency scores and body weight were monitored at the beginning of the trial and after 3, 7, 15, and 45 days, and no significant differences (p > 0.05) were observed between diets and between sex. Fecal samples, collected at the same time points, were analyzed for microbiota composition. No significant difference was calculated for the alpha diversity index between control diet and treated diet, nor for the diets × times of sampling interaction and for sex. Beta diversity was different (p-value 0.001) between the control and treated groups. The beta diversity between sexes was significantly different (p-value = 0.047). Linear Discriminant analysis effect size analysis revealed significant differences between dietary groups, identifying Clostridiales, Coprococcus, Bacteroides plebeius, Eubacterium biforme, Catenibacterium, and Prevotella copri as more abundant in the CTR diet, while Fusobacterium, Bacteroides, Fusobacteriaceae, Paraprevotellaceae, Enterococcus, Faecalibacterium, Enterobacteriaceae, Peptostreptococcaceae, and Clostridium spiroforme were more abundant in the treated diet. Sex differences were also significant, with 25 taxa differing between male and female dogs. Overall, the study underscores the impact of HFM and sex on gut microbiota composition in dogs, with potential implications for dietary interventions and microbiome research.
Analytical Differentiation of Wines from Three Terroirs Located in a Warm Winegrowing Area Based on Their Volatilome
Authors: Fuentes-Espinosa José Miguel , Muñoz-Castells Raquel , Moreno-García Jaime , García-Martínez Teresa , Mauricio Juan Carlos , Moreno Juan
Published: January 2025

This research aims to identify aroma compounds, their combinations, and statistical relationships to classify and characterize wines produced in small, defined areas known as “terroirs”, which share edaphoclimatic characteristics grape varieties, viticultural practices, harvest timing, and winemaking processes. The goal is to deepen the understanding of the relationship between the terroir and wine typicity. This study analyzed the contents based on enological parameters, the major and minor volatile compounds of the young wines produced in three wineries across two vintages, using the Pedro Ximenez white grape variety cultivated in different terroirs within the same quality zone. Statistical tools, such as Multiple Variable Analysis (MVA) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA), were employed to identify significant differences in the volatilomes of wines. PCA effectively differentiated wines from each terroir and vintage using scores from the first two principal components, calculated based on the absolute concentrations of 12 major volatile compounds and 3 polyols. Conversely, PCA based on the concentrations of 52 minor volatile compounds showed a strong ability to classify wines by vintage year. The minor volatile contents of wines from 2 vintages, grouped into 9 chemical families, provide distinct fingerprints that enable wines to be distinguished by terroir. The results underscore the chemical basis underlying terroir typicity in a production zone within a warm Protected Denomination of Origin (PDO).
Calcium Phosphate Nanoparticles Functionalized with a Cardio-Specific Peptide
Authors: Mancini Federica , Degli Esposti Lorenzo , Adamiano Alessio , Modica Jessica , Catalucci Daniele , Mehn Dora , Geiss Otmar , Iafisco Michele
Published: January 2025

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, highliting the urgent need for new therapeutic strategies. Peptide-based therapies have demonstrated significant potential for treating CVDs; however, their clinical application is hindered by their limited stability in physiological fluids. To overcome this challenge, an effective drug delivery system is essential to protect and efficiently transport peptides to their intended targets. This study introduces two distinct strategies for loading a cardio-specific mimetic peptide (MP), previously designed to modulate L-type calcium channel function in cardiomyocytes, onto calcium phosphate nanoparticles (CaP NPs). MP-loaded CaP NPs were prepared by two different wet precipitation syntheses, one of which involved the use of sodium polyacrylate as a templating agent. Characterization of MP-loaded CaP NPs showed that their crystallinity, size, surface charge, and morphology could be tuned by adjusting the synthesis parameters. In vitro tests on cardiac cells confirmed that both types of MP-loaded CaP NPs are biocompatible with HL-1 cardiomyocytes and restored intracellular calcium flux under stressed conditions, highlighting their therapeutic potential. These results pave the way for further optimization of CaP NP formulations and suggest their potential as a viable nanomaterial for CVD treatment.
Early Optimal Parenteral Nutrition During NICU Stay and Neurodevelopmental Outcomes in Very Preterm Infants: State of the Art
Authors: Tesser Francesca , Meneghelli Marta , Martino Diletta , Pegoraro Luca , Pelosi Maria Sofia , Sebellin Sofia , Verlato Giovanna
Published: January 2025

Background: Preterm infants (PIs) are more susceptible to neurodevelopmental impairment compared with term newborns. Adequate postnatal growth has been associated with improved neurocognitive outcomes; therefore, optimization of nutrition may positively impact the neurodevelopment of PIs. Objective: This study focused on macronutrient parenteral nutrition (PN) intake during the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit stay and their associations with neurodevelopmental outcomes in PIs in the first two years of life. Methods: The Embase, MEDLINE, and Cochrane Library databases were searched using the following subject headings and terms (MeSH): “premature infants”, “parenteral nutrition”, “growth”, “brain”, “neurodevelopment”, and “central nervous system diseases”. All relevant papers’ reference lists were manually searched. PN and neurodevelopment studies concerning the first two years of life were collected and analyzed. Results: 275 potential studies were retrieved, 64 were selected for full-text reading, and 22 were included (12 randomized controlled trials). While glucose intakes should be immediately provided and strictly monitored avoiding hyperglycemia, the long-term outcomes of aggressive PN caloric intakes are uncertain. Early amino acid (AA) supplementation is mandatory and improves short-term growth, though it is questionable whether increased AA and better neurodevelopment are directly related. Lipid infusion should be initiated right after birth, and further investigation will enable us to ascertain the potential impacts of lipid emulsions, particularly fish oil, on PI neurodevelopment. Conclusions: An aggressive PN and its possible metabolic complication could not favor neurodevelopment; the way forward could be a customized approach, depending on the patient’s clinical state and tolerance. Long-term follow-up studies and the search for specific markers of tolerance are warranted.
Mothers Who Accompany a Child to Their Death: Starting Again Without Ever Forgetting
Authors: Correia Maria Eduarda , Magão Maria Teresa , Botelho Maria Antónia Rebelo
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Parents who accompany their children with a complex chronic illness until their death experience a unique situation, with vulnerabilities, specific needs and enormous suffering. The aim of the study was to describe the lived experience of parents who accompanied their children with a complex chronic illness until their death, in a paediatric palliative care setting. Methods: We opted for a qualitative methodology, with a descriptive phenomenological orientation. Phenomenological interviews were carried out with nine intentionally selected mothers, with the support of a paediatric palliative care hospital team. The procedural phases of van Kaam’s method, modified by Moustakas, were used to analyse the data. Results: An understanding of the essential structure of the phenomenon is revealed in a description made up of three essential themes: ‘facing the harbinger of illness’; ‘living (together) with a sick child’; and ‘starting again without ever forgetting: living with an absent child’, the latter being the subject of this article. Conclusions: The participants attribute a self-transforming meaning to their lived experience of accompanying their children. Nurses will be able to access the lived experience of these mothers and improve their intervention in the process of their children’s illness, as well as in their bereavement process. There are also contributions to research and teaching in palliative care in the area of child and paediatric health.
Herbicidal and Antibacterial Secondary Metabolites Isolated from the Nicotiana tabacum-Derived Endophytic Fungus Aspergillus japonicus TE-739D
Authors: Wang Haisu , Yuan Xiaolong , Huang Xinrong , Zhang Peng , Gu Gan
Published: January 2025

Endophytic fungi possess a unique ability to produce abundant secondary metabolites, which play an active role in the growth and development of host plants. In this study, chemical investigations on the endophytic fungus Aspergillus japonicus TE-739D derived from the cultivated tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum L.) afforded two new polyketide derivatives, namely japoniones A (1) and B (2), as well as four previously reported compounds 3–6. Their chemical structures were elucidated by detailed spectroscopic analyses and quantum chemical calculations. In the herbicidal assays on the germination and radicle growth of Amaranthus retroflexus L. and Eleusine indica seeds, compound 1 was found to inhibit the germ and radicle elongation. Notably, compound 2 showed potent herbicidal activity against A. retroflexus L. germ elongation, with an IC50 value of 43.6 μg/mL, even higher than the positive control glyphosate (IC50 = 76.0 μg/mL). Moreover, compound 4 demonstrated strong antibacterial effects against the pathogens Bacillus cereus and Bacillus subtilis, with a comparable MIC value of 16 μg/mL to the positive control chloramphenicol. These findings indicate that the endophytic fungus A. japonicus TE-739D holds significant metabolic potential to produce bioactive secondary metabolites, which are beneficial, providing survival value to the host plants.
GIS-Driven Methods for Scouting Sources of Waste Heat for Fifth-Generation District Heating and Cooling (5GDHC) Systems: Railway/Highway Tunnels
Authors: Chicherin Stanislav
Published: January 2025

This paper explores the innovative application of Geographic Information Systems (GISs) to identify and utilize waste heat sources from railway and highway tunnels for fifth-generation district heating and cooling (5GDHC) systems. Increasing the number of prosumers—entities that produce and consume energy—within 5GDHC networks enhances their efficiency and sustainability. While potential sources of waste heat vary widely, this study focuses on underground car/railway tunnels, which typically have a temperature range of 20 °C to 40 °C. Using GIS software, we comprehensively analyzed tunnel locations and their potential as heat sources in Belgium. This study incorporates data from various sources, including OpenStreetMap and the European Waste Heat Map, and applies a two-dimensional heat transfer model to estimate the heat recovery potential. The results indicate that railway tunnels, especially in the southern regions of Belgium, show significant promise for waste heat recovery, potentially contributing between 0.8 and 2.9 GWh annually. The integration of blockchain technology for peer-to-peer energy exchange within 5GDHC systems is also discussed, highlighting its potential to enhance energy management and billing. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge on sustainable energy systems and presents a novel approach to leveraging existing district heating and cooling infrastructure.
Experimental Study on Permeation of Composite Grout with Multi-Particle-Size Distribution: Comparative Analysis with Nano-Silica Sol and Cement Grout
Authors: Xiang Zhe , Zhang Nong , Xie Zhengzheng , Tang Huajun , Song Ziheng
Published: January 2025

The low injectability and strong permeation of micro-fractures in argillaceous rock masses significantly impair the impermeabilization and reinforcement performance of conventional cement-based grouting materials. This study first develops a highly injectable and high-strength nano-silica sol-based composite grout. Then, the characteristics of silica sol, cement grout, and composite grout in argillaceous fractured rock masses are analyzed and compared. The permeation mechanism of the composite-grout grouting in these rock masses is preliminarily elucidated, and the grouting process is described in detail, showing its application prospects. The research results indicate the following: (1) The electrical conductivity and stone-formation rate of granular pulp can reflect the characteristics of pulp filtration. Silica sol is a grouting material with nanometer particles, and the stone rate and gel strength are weakly affected by rock mass infiltration. (2) A large amount of water cannot be combined into the gel network and separated during the cement slurry percolation process, resulting in a significant reduction in the stone rate and compressive strength of deep rock mass. The minimum stone rate decreased to 45.19%, and the minimum compressive strength decreased to 2.29 MPa. This reduces the sealing and reinforcement effect of cement grouting on deep rock masses. (3) Rock permeation primarily affects the compressive strength of the formed stones, with minimal impact on the stability and stone-formation rate of the composite grout. As permeability decreases, the position of rock permeation shifts closer to the rock surface, while the sealing of deeper rock masses is less affected, enabling the composite grout to achieve dual functions of superficial reinforcement and deep sealing. This study provides theoretical support for the practical application of composite-grout grouting in reinforcing argillaceous rock masses.
Religious Complexity in Postcolonial South Africa: Contending with the Indigenous
Authors: Settler Federico
Published: January 2025

The history of religions during the nineteenth and early twentieth centuries has been closely tied to the classification of Indigenous religions. However, recent scholarship in the field of religion has increasingly drawn on the work of subaltern and postcolonial historiography as a way of disrupting the European canon and dislodging Indigenous and non-western ways of knowing and being from the tyranny of the classical taxonomies of religion. Recent approaches to religious diversity have been challenged for reproducing imperial hierarchies of religion—assuming an accommodationist approach to Indigenous religions while also rendering invisible the internal diversity, fluidity, and adaptive orientations within Indigenous religions. In this paper, I contend that in the postcolonial context, Indigenous religions uncouple themselves from traditional taxonomies of religion, and, in particular, I propose religious complexity as a suitable framework and approach for accounting, contending with, and reporting on religious change in postcolonial South Africa. I explore questions about how to account for, ‘classify’, or ‘measure’ change related to everyday African Indigenous religious efforts and practices in the aftermath of and in response to colonialism, where conventional ideas about religious authority and affinity are displaced by Indigenous practices that can variously be described as simultaneously vital, viral, or feral.
Virtualized Microphone Array for Moving Sources Mapping
Authors: Sopranzetti Francesca , Caputo Alessia , Castellini Paolo
Published: January 2025

The acoustic analysis of a moving object, such as in pass-by or fly-over tests, is a very important and demanding issue. These types of analyses make it possible to characterize the machine in quite realistic conditions, but the typical difficulties related to source localization and characterization are usually exacerbated by the need to take into consideration and to compensate for the object movement. In this paper, a technique based on acoustic beamforming is proposed, which is applicable to all those cases where the object under investigation is moving. In the proposed technique, the object’s movement is not regarded as a problem but as a resource, enabling a virtual increase in the number of microphone acquisitions. For a stationary acoustic emission from a moving object, each time segment of the acquired signal is treated as if it is coming from a microphone (virtual) positioned differently relative to the object’s reference system. This paper describes the technique and presents examples of results obtained from both simulated and real signals. Performance analysis is conducted and discussed in detail.
Non-Wood Forest Product Extractivism: A Case Study of Euterpe oleracea Martius in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: de Oliveira Emilly Pinheiro , Ximenes Lucas Cunha , Gama João Ricardo Vasconcellos , Vieira Thiago Almeida
Published: January 2025

Euterpe oleracea Martius is the main palm tree species that contributes to the Amazonian economy and its pulp is a widely sought-after product in the market due to its nutritional and health benefits. However, high market demand has stimulated changes in land use practices of native stands, including management models that increase fruit productivity. Thus, we aimed to evaluate the socioeconomic aspects involved in the extractivism/local management practices of this species in a community in the Brazilian Amazon. We interviewed 10 families from the 15 ones that participate in the productive chain of this species in the community, with questions related to the socioeconomic aspects, management practices, and commercialization of E. oleracea. Its fruit collection in the community is an important activity that provides family income, with the majority of production being for pulp. Family labor is of fundamental importance for the maintenance of production and is presented in all steps of the production chain. The main advantage in Santa Luzia is its location near the main consumer markets, so community members should take advantage of this more effectively and stimulate the strengthening of the community’s local processing unit, mainly for the commercialization of the pulp, which constitutes the greatest contribution.
Effect of Environmental Factors on Macrobenthic Community Structure in Chishui River Basin
Authors: Feng Shuo , Wang Hongtao , Zhang Jing , Zhao Xianfu , Zhao Jinyong , Mao Feng , Peng Wenqi , Chen Quchang
Published: January 2025

Tributaries flowing naturally play an important role in maintaining the biodiversity of aquatic organisms in dammed rivers. The Chishui River is currently the only undeveloped first-level tributary and an important habitat for aquatic organisms in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. Understanding the distribution of the community structure of macrobenthos in the Chishui River and its influencing factors is crucial for the conservation and restoration of aquatic biodiversity in both the Chishui River and the Yangtze River. This study analyzes the community structure characteristics of macrobenthos in the Chishui River using four indicators, i.e., Margalef richness index, EPT taxon richness (the number of taxa in the pollution-sensitive Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera), Simpson dominance index, and Shannon diversity index, examining differences among different types of environmental factors (physical, chemical, and biological) in the upper, middle, and lower reaches. Subsequently, RDA (Redundancy Analysis) is used to analyze the main influencing factors of different types of environmental factors on macrobenthic community structure. VPA (Variance Partitioning Analysis) is employed to assess the relative importance of different types of environmental factors and their joint effects on the characteristics of macrobenthic community structure. The results indicate that physical environmental factors explain 68.7% of the variation in macrobenthic community structure indicators, chemical environmental factors explain 79.3%, and biological environmental factors account for 36.2%. The interaction among chemical, biological, and physical factors is the most significant explanatory variable, accounting for 41.7% of the variation in macrobenthic community structure characteristics. For EPT taxon number and Shannon diversity index, the interaction among chemical, biological, and physical factors is also the most important explanatory variable, accounting for 42.1% and 42.5% of the variation. For the Margalef richness index and Simpson dominance index, the interaction between chemical and physical factors is the most significant, accounting for 45.0% and 85.3% of the variation. Therefore, the impact of multiple environmental factors on aquatic organisms should not be overlooked, and attention should be paid to the contributions of various environmental factors in the conservation of macrobenthos in the Chishui River Basin.
How Does Digital Inclusive Finance Affect Agricultural Productive Services?—An Economic Model in the Chinese Context
Authors: Jiang Songyu , Gao Jie , Chen Jing , Zhao Xingqi
Published: January 2025

As an important part of the digital economy, digital inclusive finance provides new opportunities for the development of agricultural producer services. Based on the balanced panel data of 31 provinces in China from 2012 to 2021, this paper uses a two-way fixed effect model and a spatial panel model to explore the impact of digital inclusive finance on agricultural producer services. The research results show that digital financial inclusion and its fractal indicators have a significant promoting effect on agricultural productive services. From the spatial perspective, digital financial inclusion plays a positive role in promoting agricultural productive services. Therefore, in order to better play the role of digital inclusive finance in promoting the development of agricultural productive services, it is necessary to strengthen the construction of digital infrastructure, promote the coordinated development of regions, and promote the deep integration and application of digital inclusive finance in the field of agricultural productive services.
Adaptation of Existent Methods for Setting Decarbonization Targets in the Brazilian Power Sector Companies
Authors: Bozelli Hugo Barros , Guimarães Bruna Silveira , dos Santos Alex Azevedo , Grutzmacher Priscila , Botta Caroline Cristine , da Rocha José Eduardo Nunes , Pereira Jr. Amaro Olimpio
Published: January 2025

Power sector companies are crucial in global decarbonization, accounting for 32% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Despite frameworks like the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), there is ongoing debate about the adequacy of current target-setting methods and emissions allocation. This paper focuses on Brazil’s diverse, renewable-heavy energy mix and complex regulatory environment. It highlights the challenges faced by vertically integrated and predominantly renewable energy companies in meeting SBTi goals, despite their commitment to climate action. The study finds that the current SBTi methodology fails to accurately reflect the efforts of these companies, often penalizing them for emissions beyond their control. An alternative methodology is proposed that excludes unmanageable emissions, aligning targets more closely with operational actions while maintaining transparency in reporting. A key finding is that this new methodology avoids distortions caused by external factors, ensuring emissions reductions are tied to company actions. For renewable power utilities, the methodology emphasizes high-emission categories within the value chain, such as asset construction and maintenance, promoting deeper engagement in decarbonization. A new tool and scenarios were developed, showing that proposed adjustments enhance target accuracy, support global emissions reduction goals, and provide a more transparent and equitable way for companies to report emissions, distinguishing between controllable and external factors.
Exposure to Volatile Organic Compounds in Relation to Visceral Adiposity Index and Lipid Accumulation Product Among U.S. Adults: NHANES 2011–2018
Authors: Qian Ziyi , Dai Chenxu , Chen Siyan , Yang Linjie , Huo Xia
Published: January 2025

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are associated with obesity health risks, while the association of mixed VOCs with visceral adiposity indicators remains unclear. In this study, a total of 2015 adults from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included. Weighted generalized linear models, restricted cubic spline (RCS), weighted quantile sum (WQS), and Bayesian kernel machine regression (BKMR) were adopted to assess the association of VOC metabolites (mVOCs) with the visceral adiposity index (VAI) and lipid accumulation product (LAP). Multiple mVOCs were positively associated with the VAI and LAP in the single-exposure model, especially N-acetyl-S-(2-carboxyethyl)-L-cysteine (CEMA) and N-acetyl-S-(N-methylcarbamoyl)-L-cysteine (AMCC). The associations of mVOCs with VAI and LAP were more significant in <60-year-old and non-obese individuals, with interactions of CEMA with age and AMCC with obesity status. Nonlinear relationships between certain mVOCs and the VAI or the LAP were also observed. In the WQS model, co-exposure to mVOCs was positively correlated with the VAI [β (95%CI): 0.084 (0.022, 0.147)]; CEMA (25.24%) was the major contributor. The result of the BKMR revealed a positive trend of the association between mixed mVOCs and the VAI. Our findings suggest that VOC exposure is strongly associated with visceral obesity indicators. Further large prospective investigations are necessary to support our findings.
Toxicity of Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances and Their Substitutes to Terrestrial and Aquatic Invertebrates—A Review
Authors: Zhang Jiaxin , Naveed Hassan , Chen Keping , Chen Liang
Published: January 2025

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFASs) have been widely used in daily life but they cause certain impacts on the environment due to their unique carbon–fluorine chemical bonds that are difficult to degrade in the environment. Toxicological studies on PFASs and their alternatives have mainly focused on vertebrates, while terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates have been studied to a lesser extent. As invertebrates at the bottom of the food chain play a crucial role in the whole ecological chain, it is necessary to investigate the toxicity of PFASs to invertebrates. In this paper, the progress of toxicological studies on PFASs and their alternatives in terrestrial and aquatic invertebrates is reviewed, and the accumulation of PFASs, their toxicity in invertebrates, as well as the neurotoxicity and toxicity to reproduction and development are summarized. This provides a reference to in-depth studies on the comprehensive assessment of the toxicity of PFASs and their alternatives, promotes further research on PFASs in invertebrates, and provides valuable recommendations for the use and regulation of alternatives to PFASs.
Prevalence, Molecular Epidemiology, and Clinical Characteristics of Human Bocavirus Among Patients with Acute Gastroenteritis in Northern Brazil During 2017–2022
Authors: Sousa Yasmim Gabrielly Souza , Maneschy Carolina Alcântara , Monteiro Carolina Costa , Rodrigues João Victor Souza , Lobo Patrícia Santos , Teixeira Dielle Monteiro , Siqueira Jones Anderson Monteiro , Pinheiro Kenny Costa , Resque Hugo Reis , Silva Luciana Damascena , Guerra Sylvia Fátima dos Santos , Soares Luana Silva
Published: January 2025

Acute gastroenteritis (AG) is a major illness in early childhood. Recent studies suggest a potential association between human bocavirus (HBoV) and AG. HBoV, a non-enveloped virus with a single-strand DNA genome, belongs to the Parvoviridae family. This study aimed to describe the frequency of HBoV in Northern Brazil using samples from patients with AG collected between 2017 and 2022. Fecal samples obtained from the viral gastroenteritis surveillance network at the Evandro Chagas Institute (IEC) were analyzed. Fecal suspensions (20%) were prepared, and the viral genome was extracted. PCR and nested-PCR were employed to detect HBoV, followed by nucleotide sequencing to identify viral types. Out of 692 samples, HBoV positivity was detected in 9.2% of cases (64/692). Genotypes HBoV-1, HBoV-2, HBoV-3, and HBoV-4 were found in 42.5% (17/40), 22.5% (9/40), 32.5% (13/40), and 2.5% (1/40) of the specimens, respectively. Co-infections with HBoV and other enteric viruses occurred in 48.3% (31/64) of cases, with RVA being the most frequent (31.2%, 20/64). The study results underscore the importance of continuous monitoring and further research to better understand the seasonality, coinfection patterns, and genetic variability of HBoV.
Rearing in a Physically Enriched Environment Affects Shoaling and Stress Responses of Zebrafish (Danio rerio) Exposed to Novel Conditions
Authors: Gazzano Valentina , Di Filippo Martina , Licitra Rosario , Ogi Asahi , Fronte Baldassare , Curadi Maria Claudia , Gazzano Angelo
Published: January 2025

The impact of enrichment on stress reduction in zebrafish (Danio rerio) exposed to a novel environment was assessed. Four control shoals (CTRL) and five treated shoals (TRT), each with eight fish, were observed; in TRT tanks, a PVC pipe was included (three-way tube, 11.7 × 4 cm) as enrichment for 90 days. Subsequently, fish were moved to a new tank for a shoaling test, and behavior was evaluated over periods of 0′–5′ and 5′–10′. Cortisol dissolved in water was measured before and after the test. No differences were found between the two groups in distance moved, swimming speed, or shoal acceleration. Both groups reduced interindividual distance in the second phase of the test (CTRL: t = 8.977, p ≤ 0.0001; TRT: t = 8.247, p ≤ 0.0001), though TRT fish maintained greater spacing (t = 2.292, p ≤ 0.05). TRT fish spent more time without contact during both phases (first: t = 2.645, p ≤ 0.05; second: t = 3.134, p ≤ 0.01), while CTRL fish reduced this time in the second phase (t = 2.991, p ≤ 0.05). Cortisol rose significantly in CTRL after the test (t = 2.452, p ≤ 0.05) but not in TRT fish. These results suggest that environmental enrichment mitigates stress, as seen by reduced cohesiveness and cortisol in TRT fish.
Economic Sustainability of Scrapping Electric and Internal Combustion Vehicles: A Comparative Multiple Italian Case Study
Authors: Corallo Angelo , Di Prizio Alberto , Lazoi Mariangela , Pascarelli Claudio
Published: January 2025

The transition to sustainable mobility is one of the most pressing and complex challenges for the automotive industry, with impacts that extend beyond the mere reduction of emissions. Electric vehicles, while at the center of this evolution, raise questions about the consumption of natural resources, such as lithium, copper, and cobalt, and their long-term sustainability. In addition, the introduction of advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems, brings new challenges related to the management of components and materials needed for their production, creating a significant impact on supply chains. The growing demand for electric and autonomous vehicles is pushing the industry to rethink production models, favoring the adoption of circular economy principles to minimize waste and optimize the use of resources. To better understand the implications of this transition, this study adopts a multiple case study methodology, which allows in-depth exploration of different contexts and scenarios, and analysis of real cases of dismantling and recycling of internal combustion engines (ICEs) and electric vehicles (EVs). The research includes a financial simulation and a comparison of revenues from the dismantling of ICE and EV vehicles, highlighting differences in the value of recycled materials and the effectiveness of circular economy practices applied to the two types of vehicles. This approach provides a detailed overview of the economic benefits and challenges related to the management of the end of life of vehicles, helping to outline optimal strategies for a sustainable and cost-effective future in the automotive sector.
Secondary prevention of dental hyperesthesia in young individuals undergoing active orthodontic treatment
Authors: Soldatov V. S. , Soldatova L. N. , Iordanishvili A. K. , Kobzeva S. A.
Published: January 2025

Relevance. Dental hyperesthesia is a common clinical concern among individuals undergoing orthodontic treatment, particularly those using bracket systems. Despite the absence of visible defects in the hard dental tissues, these patients often experience significant sensitivity. In such cases, the clinical management of dental hyperesthesia is most effectively achieved through the targeted use of personal oral care products, with a particular emphasis on toothpaste. The development of new domestically produced toothpastes presents a valuable opportunity to compare their efficacy in managing dental hyperesthesia with that of existing, well-established formulations. This study aimed to assess the clinical effectiveness of a newly developed domestically produced toothpaste for sensitive teeth, R.O.C.S. PRO SENSITIVE, in young patients experiencing dental hyperesthesia during active orthodontic treatment.

Materials and methods. The study involved 39 young patients (16 males and 23 females) aged 18–25 years, who experienced dental hyperesthesia and were undergoing active orthodontic treatment with bracket systems. All patients, depending on the oral care products used, were divided into three study groups. Patients in Control Group 1 (12 participants: 5 males and 7 females) continued using their previously selected individual oral hygiene products. Patients in Group 2 (12 participants: 4 males and 8 females) were recommended to use the domestically produced toothpaste "R.O.C.S. Sakura Branch." Patients in Group 3 (15 participants: 7 males and 8 females) were advised to use the new domestically produced toothpaste for sensitive teeth, R.O.C.S. PRO SENSITIVE. To evaluate the comparative effectiveness of secondary prevention of dental hyperesthesia, the methodology developed by L.Y. Orekhova and S.B. Ulitovsky (2008) was applied, which involved assessing tooth sensitivity and evaluating sensitivity reduction.

Results. An analysis of the tooth sensitivity dynamics during secondary prevention revealed that, one month after the study began, the most significant reduction in dental hyperesthesia among patients undergoing orthodontic treatment with bracket systems was observed in those using the new domestically produced toothpaste. This toothpaste features active components such as chlorophyll, calcium hydroxyapatite, potassium chloride, xylitol, and bioavailable minerals.

Conclusion. The clinical study demonstrated the high efficacy of the new domestically produced toothpaste for sensitive teeth, R.O.C.S. PRO SENSITIVE, in reducing dental hyperesthesia.
Estudio comparativo entre hombres y mujeres con riesgo suicida respecto a depresión y soporte familiar
Authors: Londoño Pérez Constanza
Published: January 2025

La salud integral de la población colombiana constituye un urgente reto de salud pública pues en los últimos años ha aumentado el riesgo suicida. El objetivo del presente estudio fue determinar si existen diferencias estadísticamente significativas entre hombres y mujeres con riesgo suicida en el reporte de depresión y soporte familiar. La muestra estaba conformada por 272 estudiantes universitarios colombianos, 92 hombres y 180  mujeres, entre los 15 y 57 años (M= 20.05; DE= 4.28) de 7 facultades (administración de empresas, biología, ciencias políticas, comunicación social, contaduría, derecho, economía, enfermería, física y matemática, ingenierías, licenciaturas, psicología y tecnologías), los instrumentos utilizados fueron Test de Depresión de Zung, Escala de Riesgo Suicida de Plutchik, Funcionamiento familiar - APGAR Familiar y un formato de registro de condiciones sociodemográficas. Los datos obtenidos se analizaron con estadísticos descriptivos y un análisis multifactorial comparativo por sexo con el SPSS 29. Se identifican diferencias significativas entre hombres y mujeres en depresión e ideación suicida, mayor la media de depresión en mujeres y la ideación suicida en hombres. Se discute la importancia de incluir nuevos indicadores de salud mental diferenciadores entre hombres y mujeres, y sobre el uso de cuestionarios sensibles a los síntomas de depresión masculina.
El comportamiento escolar de los adolescentes en el contexto de las relaciones familiares
Authors: Zambrano Zambrano Rovinson Yovanni , Tarazona Meza Anicia Katherine , Sampedro Mera Martha Johana
Published: January 2025

El comportamiento de los adolescentes se ve afectado por diversos factores, siendo las relaciones familiares un componente crucial. Estas relaciones pueden potenciar diferentes comportamientos, según la calidad de las mismas. Bajo esta premisa, la presente investigación tiene como objetivo determinar el comportamiento escolar en contexto de las relaciones familiares de los adolescentes de la Unidad Educativa Inocencio Parrales Iguale. La investigación adopta un diseño no experimental con enfoque cuantitativo y alcance transversal. Se utilizó el método inductivo- deductivo, así como el análisis de contenido, la revisión bibliográfica y el método estadístico- descriptivo. La muestra estudiada fue de 50 adolescentes de octavo año de básica. Se aplicó el Cuestionario para la Detección de los Trastornos del Comportamiento en Niños y Adolescentes (ESPERI) y la Escala de Evaluación de Relaciones Intrafamiliares (ERI). Los resultados destacan que entre el 10% y el 20% de los adolescentes exhiben comportamientos predelictivos, psicopáticos y disociales, en un contexto donde el 10% al 15% percibe las relaciones familiares con niveles bajos de unión y apoyo, expresión emocional y la mayoría de adolescentes perciben dificultades en sus relaciones familiares. Estos resultados subrayan la necesidad de implementar acciones para mejorar las relaciones familiares con el fin de prevenir comportamientos escolares inadecuados.