bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Chronic Kidney Disease During Pandemic Conditions—A Single-Center Experience
Authors: Biesiadecki Łukasz , Jacuńska Joanna , Tomecka Paulina , Bruciak Aleksandra , Musiał Kinga
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) is increasing worldwide, and this tendency is also visible in pediatric patients. The major clinical challenge is to achieve a diagnosis as early as possible, despite an overt clinical course, especially in the early stages of the disease. Unfavorable external conditions may disturb the proper treatment of chronically ill patients and delay the time of diagnosis. The recent COVID-19 pandemia might have altered the usual diagnostic pathways of different comorbidities, and CKD was probably one of them. However, there are no data on newly diagnosed CKD in children during the time of the pandemia, so our aim was to approach this problem. Methods: We analyzed medical records of 154 children with CKD who were hospitalized in the Department of Pediatric Nephrology in prepandemic (years 2015–2019) vs. pandemic and postpandemic (2020–2024) conditions, analyzing the eGFR value and stage of CKD at diagnosis, the underlying diseases leading to CKD, and sex-related differences. Results: The number of patients who were diagnosed with CKD in both time periods was comparable. Children hospitalized in the years 2020–2024 presented more often with advanced stages of CKD. The trend towards an increasing share of glomerulopathies, acute kidney injury, and unknown causes of CKD was noticeable under pandemic conditions. Conclusions: The COVID-19 pandemic could, probably owing to reduced access to primary healthcare and disrupted routine check-ups, delay the process of diagnosing CKD in children.
Fabrication of SiC–Aluminum Composites via Binder Jetting 3D Printing and Infiltration: A Feasibility Study
Authors: Khan Fahim , Sanders Jackson , Arman Md Shakil , Pasha Mostafa Meraj , Kachur Stephen , Pei Zhijian
Published: February 2025

The objective of this study is to demonstrate the feasibility of producing SiC–aluminum composites by the binder jetting 3D printing of SiC preforms and spontaneous infiltration by aluminum. SiC preforms fabricated using binder jetting 3D printing were subjected to several post-processing steps (including curing, depowdering, debinding, and sintering). Sintering was conducted at 1700 °C, and aluminum infiltrating was conducted at 1000 °C, with both carried out in a controlled nitrogen environment under a pressure of 25 psi. The bulk density of the sintered SiC preforms was increased by 14% after infiltration. X-ray diffraction and energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy confirmed the presence of aluminum in the SiC matrix. This paper is the first to report fabricating SiC–aluminum composites by binder jetting and infiltrating, providing a new approach to producing these composites with potential applications in the aerospace and automotive industries.
Sustainable Cooling, Layer by Layer, Shaping Magnetic Regenerators via Additive Manufacturing
Authors: Sharma Vaibhav , Bhandari Krishbold , Barua Radhika
Published: February 2025

Additive manufacturing (AM) is revolutionizing magnetic heat pumping technology by enabling the design and production of highly optimized, customizable components that enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and accelerate innovation in thermal management systems. This review highlights recent advances in AM for magnetocaloric materials, emphasizing its role in fabricating heat exchange structures with complex geometries and unique microstructures to enhance thermal and magnetic performance. Key AM techniques, including material extrusion, binder jetting, laser powder bed fusion, and directed energy deposition, are compared, with an in-depth discussion of critical challenges such as achieving precise material composition, controlling porosity, and maintaining phase stability. Finally, the review offers guidelines for future research to overcome these challenges. These innovations are essential for transitioning from laboratory demonstrations to real-world applications, paving the way for sustainable cooling solutions that could replace traditional gas compression systems on an industrial scale.
Relationship Between Anthropometric Profile, Body Composition, and Physical Performance in Spanish Professional Female Soccer Players at Pre-Season Onset: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ramírez-Munera Marta , Arcusa Raúl , López-Román Francisco Javier , Ávila-Gandía Vicente , Pérez-Piñero Silvia , Muñoz-Carrillo Juan Carlos , Luque-Rubia Antonio Jesús , Marhuenda Javier
Published: February 2025

Background: Body composition plays a key role in both anaerobic and aerobic performance in professional soccer. However, its relationship with physical performance in female players remains underexplored. Assessing these parameters at the beginning of the pre-season provides valuable insights for optimizing player readiness. This study investigates the correlation between anthropometric profile, body composition, and physical performance in professional female soccer players at pre-season onset. Additionally, it analyzes positional differences and their relation to the specific physical demands of women’s soccer. Methods: A cross-sectional study of thirty-four female soccer players (age: 23.06 ± 4.29 years, height: 164.15 ± 5.84 cm, weight: 58.39 ± 6.62 kg, and ∑6 skinfolds: 74.57 ± 18.48 mm) who performed anthropometric measurements, the Countermovement Jump (CMJ), Wingate Anaerobic Test (WAnT), and Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery Level 1 (Yo-Yo IR1) on the first day of the pre-season. One-way ANOVA with Tukey’s post hoc test assessed positional differences, while Pearson’s or Spearman’s correlation coefficients evaluated relationships between anthropometric variables and performance outcomes. Results: Very high positive correlations were found between body and muscle mass with the power variables in CMJ and WAnT (r = 0.70–0.89; p < 0.001). An almost perfect correlation was observed between body mass and peak power in WAnT (r = 0.904; p < 0.001). In contrast, fat mass showed moderate negative correlations with jump height and aerobic performance (Yo-Yo IR1 distance) (r = 0.30–0.49; p < 0.04). Significant differences were observed in the mean (757.60 ± 95.59 W) and peak power (773.59 ± 101.88 W) of CMJ pre-WAnT, with goalkeepers showing higher values compared to defenders and midfielders (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Body composition significantly influences athletic performance, showing positive correlations of muscle and body mass with anaerobic power and capacity. In contrast, fat mass showed negative correlations with explosive strength, recovery, and aerobic capacity.
Effect of Strain Path on Transformation Rates and Material Ductility in Transformation-Induced Plasticity-Assisted Advanced High-Strength Steel
Authors: Gibbs Parker , Adams Derrik , Fullwood David T. , Homer Eric R. , Sachdev Anil K. , Miles Michael P.
Published: February 2025

TBF 1180 steel was plastically deformed under different strain paths in order to study both the ductility and RA transformation rates. Specimens were prepared from a 1 mm thick sheet and then tested incrementally under uniaxial tension, plane-strain tension, and biaxial tension. The retained austenite (RA) levels were measured, as a function of the plastic strain, using electron backscatter diffraction (EBSD). The plane-strain tension specimens had the fastest rate of RA transformation as a function of strain, followed by uniaxial tension, and then biaxial tension. The forming limits were measured for each strain path, yielding major limit strains of 0.12 under uniaxial tension, 0.09 under plane-strain tension, and 0.16 under biaxial tension. These results were compared to prior work on a 1.2 mm Q&P 1180 steel sheet, which had a similar yield and ultimate tensile strength, but exhibited slightly greater forming limits than the TBF material. The visual inspection of the micrographs appeared to show an equiaxed RA morphology in the Q&P 1180 steel and a mixture of equiaxed and lamellar RA grains in the TBF 1180 steel. However, the statistics generated by EBSD revealed that both alloys had RA grains with essentially the same aspect ratios. The average RA grain size in the Q&P alloy was found to be about three times larger than that of the TBF alloy. As such, the small but consistent formability advantage exhibited by the Q&P 1180 alloy along all three strain paths can be attributed to its larger average RA grain size, where larger RA grain sizes correlated with a more gradual transformation rate.
An Overview of Recent Advances in Pursuit–Evasion Games with Unmanned Surface Vehicles
Authors: Qu Xingru , Zeng Linghui , Qu Shihang , Long Feifei , Zhang Rubo
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of perception, decision-making, and control technologies, pursuit–evasion (PE) games with unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) have become an interesting research topic in military implementations and civilian areas. In this paper, we provide an overview of recent advances in the PE games with USVs. First, the motion model of USVs and successful criteria for PE games are presented. Next, some challenging issues in PE games with USVs are briefly discussed. Then, recent results on one-pursuer one-evader, multiple-pursuer one-evader, and multiple-pursuer multiple-evader with USVs are reviewed in detail. Finally, several theoretical and technical issues are suggested to direct future research, including target prediction, dynamic task allocation, brain-inspired decision-making, safe control, and PE experiments.
Suicide of Minors in the Spanish Press: Analysis from the Perspective of Public Interest and the Limits of Freedom of Information
Authors: García-Fernández Diego , Marcos del Cano Ana M. , Topa Gabriela
Published: February 2025

Every year, more than 700,000 people die by suicide worldwide, a quarter of whom are between 15 and 29 years of age. In Spain, suicide has surpassed road traffic accidents as the leading non-natural cause of death in this age group. Although its overall incidence remains low, the number of suicide attempts continues to rise, indicating an upward trend. Despite being recognized as a significant public health issue, the media often refrains from reporting on suicide to prevent the Werther effect, thereby avoiding the potential propagation of suicidal behavior. This is a form of self-censorship in the exercise of freedom of information, a right recognized by the Spanish Constitution, which also undermines the right of citizens to receive such content. The Spanish Constitutional Court has determined that public interest is a mandatory requirement to endorse the legitimacy of a news item in case of a clash with any of the rights that legally limit freedom of information. This article aims to analyze whether, in those exceptional cases in which the rule of silence is broken, the information on suicide in young people is in line with the jurisprudential concept of public interest, above privacy, honor or self-image and, especially, above the protection of children and adolescents. As a research method, this study analyzes a selection of news articles on suicides of minors, published in Spanish digital newspapers and compiled into a self-developed database. These articles are examined through the lens of the Spanish Constitutional Court’s doctrine on freedom of information. The findings indicate that public interest is unequivocally justified when news coverage focuses on aggregated data regarding suicide or suicide attempts among minors. However, when reporting on the suicide of an individual minor, the justification from the perspective of freedom of information depends on the specifics of each case, requiring a careful balance between public interest and the protection of fundamental rights.
Correlation Between Post-Pandemic Climate Change Advocacy on TikTok and Knowledge, Attitude, and Adaptation Practices Among TikTok Users in Nigeria
Authors: Ben-Enukora Charity A. , Soroaye Mary P. , Ejem Agwu A. , Asogwa Chika E. , Ojih Success E. U. , Ezegwu Daniel T.
Published: February 2025

This study examined the relationship between climate change advocacy on TikTok and knowledge, attitude, and adaptation practices among TikTok users in Nigeria. This study employed quantitative methods, using content analysis and cross-sectional survey approaches to generate data. An API tool was used to scrape 342 TikTok videos, out of which 16 videos with comprehensive information about climate change were purposively selected, and 381 survey participants were purposively selected from 23.84 million TikTok users in Nigeria. The data were presented in simple frequency tables, while the Pearson’s Correlation analysis was conducted on the survey data acquired to draw inferences. The results of the content analysis suggest that users in Nigeria have contributed a little in providing comprehensive climate advocacy content on TikTok; most of available videos emanated from official sources and projected the anthropogenic nature of the climate crisis but denoted a pessimistic and alarming tone, which may induce despair and outright disregard for the messages. The survey results depict limited exposure to climate change content on TikTok, even though the knowledge of climate change was adequate. More so, polarised perceptions and attitudes, and maladaptive practices in tree planting as well as plastic and household wastes management were observed. The correlation coefficients show a negative and statistically non-significant correlation between exposure to climate advocacy on TikTok and knowledge, attitude, and adaptation practices, but there is a positive but insignificant relationship between the perception of climate change advocacy on TikTok and adaptation practices. These findings suggest the need for more intentional policies that will drive positive attitudinal changes and adaptation practices among young people in Nigeria.
Effect of Rare Earth Ce on Microstructure and Properties of Q370qENHY Bridge Steel
Authors: Chen Yue , Yang Jichun , Liu Xiangjun
Published: February 2025

To enhance the mechanical characteristics and corrosion resistance of bridge steel, three distinct groups of test steels with varying Ce contents were formulated. The objective was to investigate the influence of rare earth Ce on the microstructure, impact performance, and corrosion resistance of bridge steel. The addition of rare earth elements improves both the impact performance and the corrosion resistance of bridge steels. The present research systematically examines the impact of cerium (Ce) incorporation on the structural and impact performance of bridge construction steels, with particular emphasis on elucidating the fundamental mechanisms governing these modifications. This investigation establishes a comprehensive theoretical framework that facilitates the advancement of next-generation rare earth-enhanced high-performance steel alloys specifically designed for bridge engineering applications. The investigation reveals that rare-earth elements exert a significant influence on microstructural refinement, leading to the diminution of grain size. Additionally, these elements catalyze the modification of inclusion morphology in the test steel, transitioning from an irregular form to a spherical one, with a concomitant decrease in inclusion size. The tested steel with a rare earth mass fraction of 0.0025 wt.% has the best impact performance and the lowest corrosion rate. The impact performance improved by 7.37% compared with the experimental steel without the addition of rare earth elements. The incorporation of rare earth elements has been observed to promote the accumulation of Cu in the rust layer, which contributes to the improved stability of the layer. Concurrently, it has been noted that, for equivalent periods of corrosion exposure, there is a positive correlation between the arc radius of bulk resistance and the incremental levels of rare earth Ce.
Design of Quality Gain-Loss Function with the Cubic Term Consideration for Larger-the-Better Characteristic and Smaller-the-Better Characteristic
Authors: Wang Bo , Yang Ruiyu , Li Pengyuan , Li Qikai , Yu Hui , Li Zhiyong
Published: February 2025

This research was based on the loss relationship diagrams of the linear term, quadratic term, and the cubic term losses in the quality gain–loss function (QGLF) for the larger-the-better characteristic (LBC) and the smaller-the-better characteristic (SBC). Limitations of ignoring the cubic term loss in the QGLF for the LBC and the SBC were analyzed. A QGLF model for LBC and SBC was proposed when considering the cubic term loss, using the threshold set at the ratio of the quadratic term loss to the cubic term loss. The calculation formulas for the coefficients of the linear term loss and the quadratic and cubic term losses in the QGLF for LBC and SBC when considering the cubic term were analyzed. By calculating and comparing the QGLF and the percentage discrepancy value of the continuous curing time of the concrete construction of dams and the temperature of the concrete pouring outlet, it was proved that directly ignoring the cubic term loss led to a discrepancy between the estimated quality loss value and the actual loss.
Dynamics of a Stochastic Single-Species Kolmogorov System Under Markovian Switching
Authors: Zhang Zhixian , Ding Xiaoquan
Published: February 2025

Understanding the impact of unpredictable environmental fluctuations is crucial in population ecology because such fluctuations are an important feature of natural population systems. In this paper, we consider a stochastic single-species Kolmogorov system under Markovian switching. By using the Lyapunov method, we establish sufficient conditions for stochastic permanence, exponential ergodicity, and extinction of the system. Some examples are presented to illustrate corollaries, showing that our results generalize and improve on some known ones.
A Multi-Age Multi-Group Epidemiological Model and Its Validation on the COVID-19 Epidemic in Italy: SEIHRDV
Authors: Dede’ Luca , Parolini Nicola , Quarteroni Alfio , Villani Giulia , Ziarelli Giovanni
Published: February 2025

We propose a novel epidemiological model, referred to as SEIHRDV, for the numerical simulation of the COVID-19 epidemic, validated using data from Italy starting in September 2020. SEIHRDV includes the following compartments: Susceptible (S), Exposed (E), Infectious (I), Healing (H), Recovered (R), Deceased (D), and Vaccinated (V). The model is age-stratified, with the population divided into 15 age groups, and it considers seven different contexts of exposure to infection (family, home, school, work, transport, leisure, and other contexts), which impact the transmission mechanism. The primary goal of this work is to provide a valuable tool for analyzing the spread of the epidemic in Italy during 2020 and 2021, supporting the country’s decision making processes. By leveraging the SEIHRDV model, we analyzed epidemic trends, assessed the efficacy of non-pharmaceutical interventions, and evaluated vaccination strategies, including the introduction of the Green Pass, a containment measure implemented in Italy in 2021. The model proved instrumental in conducting comprehensive what-if studies and scenario analyses tailored to Italy and its regions. Furthermore, SEIHRDV facilitated accurate forecasting of the future potential trajectory of the epidemic, providing critical insights for improved public health strategies and informed decision making for authorities.
Design and Simulation of Magnetic Shielding Structure Based on Closed-Loop TMR Current Sensor
Authors: Li Qiuyang , Xiong Suqin , Wang Shuo , Dong Xianguang , Zhang Haifeng
Published: February 2025

With the rapid development of current sensor technology, tunnel magnetoresistance (TMR) current sensors have been widely adopted in industrial detection due to their high sensitivity, excellent linearity, and broad measurement range. This study focuses on closed-loop TMR current sensors, utilizing COMSOL Multiphysics 6.2 software and the finite element method to conduct an in-depth analysis of structural parameters affecting sensor sensitivity. A novel magnetic shielding package architecture is proposed and designed. Simulation results demonstrate that the shielding efficiency of this structure improves by 44.3% compared to a single magnetic ring under a stray magnetic field of 0.1 mT along the sensing axis. At the same time, the measurement accuracy is 2.1 times higher than that of traditional structures. Current detection experiments conducted in a strong magnetic field environment further validate that the shielding package effectively suppresses external electromagnetic interference, significantly enhancing sensor stability and measurement accuracy. This research provides important theoretical and practical insights for applying high-precision TMR current sensors in complex electromagnetic environments.
Infectious Bronchitis Virus (IBV) in Vaccinated and Non-Vaccinated Broilers in Brazil: Surveillance and Persistence of Vaccine Viruses
Authors: Salles Gleidson Biasi Carvalho , Pilati Giulia Von Tönnemann , Savi Beatriz Pereira , Dahmer Mariane , Muniz Eduardo Correa , Vogt Josias Rodrigo , Lima Neto Antonio José de , Fongaro Gislaine
Published: February 2025

Infectious bronchitis virus (IBV) poses a significant threat to poultry worldwide, necessitating robust surveillance and vaccination strategies. This study aimed to conduct IBV surveillance in Brazil, assess potential vaccine viral escapes, and evaluate vaccine persistence in vaccinated broilers. A total of 1000 tracheal swabs from 100 flocks across six states were analyzed using RT-PCR. The results showed that 91% of the flocks tested positive for IBV. The detected strains included GI-1, GI-11, and GI-23. Notably, 90% of batches received vaccines containing either GI-1 or GI-11 lineages. The study revealed vaccine persistence in 67 samples between days 16 and 32 post-vaccination. In contrast, unvaccinated batches had a high prevalence of IBV GI-11 strains (70%). These findings highlight widespread IBV circulation in Brazil with persistent viral presence in vaccinated birds and wild viruses in unvaccinated ones. Collectively, the data reveal a widespread presence of IBV in Brazil, characterized by prolonged viral persistence in vaccinated animals and the occurrence of wild viruses in both unvaccinated birds and those vaccinated against specific strains. It can be concluded from this study that there was a widespread occurrence of IBV in Brazil, providing long viral persistence in vaccinated animals, as well as the occurrence of wild virus in unvaccinated birds or birds vaccinated against individual strains.
Exserohilum turcicum Alters Phyllosphere Microbiome Diversity and Functions—Implications for Plant Health Management
Authors: Chao Shengqian , Chen Yifan , Wu Jiandong , Zhang Yin , Song Lili , Li Peng , Sun Yu , Hu Yingxiong , Wang Hui , Jiang Yuping , Lv Beibei
Published: February 2025

The phyllosphere represents the largest biological surface on Earth and serves as an untapped reservoir of functional microbiota. The phyllosphere microbiome has the potential to mitigate plant diseases; however, limited information exists regarding its role in maintaining plant health. In this study, metagenomic sequencing was employed to analyze the microbiomes of the adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces of healthy (CKWT) and diseased (EWT) maize, with the aim of dissecting the influence of Exserohilum turcicum on phyllosphere microbiome function. E. turcicum altered the alpha and beta diversity of the phyllosphere microbiome, with the Shannon diversity and Chao1 index values significantly reduced in EWT. More beneficial microbes accumulated in the CKWT phyllosphere, whereas pathogenic microbes decreased. E. turcicum may have altered the balance between commensal and pathogenic microorganisms. The species and abundances of microorganisms on the two sets of leaf surfaces were also altered after inoculation with E. turcicum. Further analysis of disease-resistance-related metabolic pathways and abundances of antibiotic-resistance genes revealed that E. turcicum altered the abundance of the functional microbiome and modified the microbiome differences between adaxial and abaxial leaf surfaces. In conclusion, the results reveal that microbial diversity in the maize phyllosphere can influence the microbiome and regulate microbial functions to support plant health. These findings enhance our understanding of how E. turcicum affects the phyllosphere microbiome and provide a theoretical basis for biological control of E. turcicum.
Synergistic Effects of Microbial Biostimulants and Calcium in Alleviating Drought Stress in Oilseed Rape
Authors: Gavelienė Virgilija , Mockevičiūtė Rima , Jankovska-Bortkevič Elžbieta , Šveikauskas Vaidevutis , Zareyan Mariam , Žalnierius Tautvydas , Jankauskienė Jurga , Jurkonienė Sigita
Published: February 2025

The study aimed to examine the changes in winter oilseed rape (Brassica napus L.) under simulated prolonged drought and to assess the effects of a microbial biostimulant ProbioHumus and calcium, individually and in combination, in order to improve the plant’s drought resistance and to identify the biochemical processes occurring in the plant tissues. The oilseed rape cv. ‘Visby’ was grown under controlled laboratory conditions. CaCO3 (hereafter, Ca) (3.71 g) was added to the soil of one pot at 70 g m−2. Seedlings at the 3–4 leaf stage were sprayed with ProbioHumus 2 mL 100 mL−1 and exposed to drought for 8 days to achieve a high water deficit. Irrigation was then resumed, and recovery was assessed after 4 days. The data showed that the microbial biostimulant alleviated the physiological and biochemical response of oilseed rape to drought stress. ProbioHumus + Ca reduced plant wilting by increasing leaf relative water content (RWC) by 87% and induced drought tolerance by increasing endogenous proline content 4-fold, increasing photosynthetic pigment content in leaves by 10–28%, reducing H2O2 by 53% and malondialdehyde (MDA) by 45%, and stimulating stomata opening (by 2-fold on the upper and 1.4-fold in the lower leaf surface), vs. drought control. The most effective measure to increase plant survival and/or resume growth after drought was the application of a microbial biostimulant with additional calcium to the soil. The practical implications of this research point to the potential benefits of applying these ecological measures under field conditions.
SARS-CoV-2 Vaccine-Induced Humoral Immunity in Immunocompetent European Adults: A Systematic Review
Authors: Bylica Izabella , Jachowicz-Matczak Estera , Brodowicz Justyna , Sułkowska Joanna , Bociąga-Jasik Monika , Heczko Piotr , Gagatek Sebastian , Bylica Jan , Wójkowska-Mach Jadwiga
Published: February 2025

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by SARS-CoV-2, profoundly impacted global health systems and economies. Vaccination and diagnostic advancements were pivotal in managing the pandemic. This systematic review evaluates antibody levels in adults following complete COVID-19 vaccination and examines the prevalence of infections in vaccinated populations. A systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines was conducted, focusing on studies analyzing antibody levels at least 14 days after full vaccination with FDA- or EMA-approved vaccines. Five European studies meeting the inclusion criteria were selected. Data were extracted and synthesized from studies involving 6280 participants aged 19 to 105, with an average of 11% having prior exposure to SARS-CoV-2. Antibody levels were analyzed over time, and the incidence of post-vaccination COVID-19 cases was recorded. The reviewed studies demonstrated that antibody levels peaked shortly after vaccination but gradually declined over time. Individuals with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection exhibited higher antibody titers than those without prior exposure. After the first dose, the Pfizer–BioNTech vaccine led to significantly higher antibody levels than the Oxford–AstraZeneca vaccine, especially in those without prior infection. Across all studies, the incidence of COVID-19 among vaccinated individuals was low (0.1–3.8% for 144–302 days post-vaccination). Vaccination reduced severe outcomes despite decreasing antibody levels. The decline in new COVID-19 cases and related deaths is attributed to widespread vaccination, natural immunity, and virus mutations reducing severity. Further studies are warranted to explore antibody persistence and optimal vaccination strategies.
Investigating the Epigenetic Effects of Polystyrene Nanoplastic Exposure in Bluegill (Lepomis macrochirus) Epithelial Cells Using Methylation-Sensitive AFLPs
Authors: Wilkinson Sheridan M. , Whitaker Justine M. , Janosik Alexis M.
Published: February 2025

Microplastics, remnants of macroplastics that have broken down to fragments smaller than 5 mm, and nanoplastics, broken down even further to sizes < 1 μm, are pervasive in aquatic ecosystems. These plastic particles are consumed by microscopic organisms, leading to bioaccumulation up trophic levels. The accumulation of plastic in the organismal gut can result in various repercussions, including cellular contamination and genomic modifications such as DNA methylation. While methylation has been studied in teleost fishes, the impact of nanoplastic exposure on this process in any species remains largely unexplored. This study delves into this largely uncharted territory, investigating the accumulation of methylation due to nanoplastic exposure within the genome of cultured bluegill BF-2 cells (Lepomis macrochirus) using methylation-sensitive AFLPs. The methylation state was analyzed through capillary gel analysis and electropherograms. Differential methylation occurred between several control and experimental groups due to nanoplastic exposure; however, these differences were not dose- or time-dependent. These results could suggest that higher dosages and exposure times to nanoplastics do not result in increased methylation levels in congruence with the dosage and exposure time; rather, only the presence of nanoplastics is enough to cause DNA methylation changes.
Effect of Interaction Between Expandable Minerals and Glycerin-Based Fluids on the Occurrence of Accretion
Authors: Sousa Ana P. O. , Lima Mário C. S. , Costa Waleska R. P. , Nascimento Renalle C. A. M. , Delgado João M. P. Q. , Lima Antonio G. B. , Amorim Luciana V.
Published: February 2025

Glycerin-based fluids are proposed as a promising alternative to inhibited fluids in the drilling of highly-reactive formations. However, even with the use of these fluids, it is still possible to observe the occurrence of problems related to the balling of drill bits and drill pipes, such as the agglomeration and accretion of cuttings. This study aims to analyze how the interaction between expandable minerals from reactive formations and glycerin-based drilling fluids affects the stability of oil wells, focusing on the occurrence and extent of the accretion phenomenon. For this purpose, bentonite pellets were characterized regarding their mineralogical composition and plastic behavior. In addition, accretion tests were performed in order to evaluate the interaction between bentonite pellets and glycerin-based drilling fluids containing different types of inhibitors. The results revealed that the pellets were predominantly composed of interstratified illite–smectite (IS) clay minerals and presented highly plastic properties with a high degree of expansion. Furthermore, it was found that the accretion percentages were significant for all the fluids studied, at higher than 58%. Therefore, it was found that using glycerin in drilling fluids did not stabilize expandable minerals in reactive formations, even with different expansion inhibitors, which were ineffective in reducing the rock expansibility.
Associations of Plasma Gut Microbiota-Derived TMAO and Precursors in Early Pregnancy with Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Risk: A Nested Case-Control Study
Authors: Wu Yani , Bai He , Lu Ying , Peng Ruiheng , Qian Mingxia , Yang Xuchen , Cai Enmao , Ruan Wenli , Zhang Qianlong , Zhang Jun , Zheng Liqiang ,   on behalf of the Shanghai Birth Cohort
Published: February 2025

Objectives: Gut microbiota-derived metabolites—trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) and its precursors choline, betaine, and carnitine—have been linked to various health outcomes. However, their role in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) remains unclear due to inconsistent findings. This study aims to investigate the associations between maternal plasma concentrations of these metabolites during early pregnancy and the risk of GDM. Methods: A nested case–control study was performed in the Shanghai Birth Cohort. GDM cases and non-GDM controls were matched according to maternal age at a ratio of 1:4. Three hundred twenty-one identified GDM cases and 1284 controls were included. Maternal plasma concentrations of TMAO and its precursors were measured between 12 and 16 weeks of gestation in early pregnancy using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Conditional logistic regression models were applied to assess associations between metabolite levels and GDM risk and to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Multivariate linear regressions evaluated relationships between metabolite concentrations and glycemic indicators. Stratified and sensitivity analyses were conducted to ensure robustness. Results: Maternal plasma levels of TMAO, choline, betaine, and carnitine in early pregnancy were 1.95 μmol/L (IQR, 1.16–3.20), 9.25 μmol/L (IQR, 7.31–11.98), 20.51 μmol/L (IQR, 16.92–24.79), and 17.13 μmol/L (IQR, 13.33–21.16), respectively. Betaine and carnitine were significantly higher in GDM cases (p = 0.002 and p = 0.042, respectively). No significant associations were identified between TMAO levels and GDM risk and glycemic indicators. Each SD increase in choline was associated with a 16% higher GDM risk (OR = 1.16, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.34, p = 0.039), while increased betaine and carnitine levels were linked to a 19% (OR = 0.81, 95% CI: 0.70, 0.95; p = 0.010) and 20% (OR = 0.80, 95% CI: 0.69, 0.94; p = 0.007) lower risk, respectively. Restricted cubic spline models showed no evidence of non-linear relationships (pfor non-linearity > 0.05). Interaction analyses indicated that the protective effect of betaine may be more pronounced in parous women. Conclusions: Higher early pregnancy levels of betaine and carnitine were associated with a reduced GDM risk, while elevated choline levels increased the risk. The protective association between betaine and GDM was more pronounced in parous women. No significant relationship was found between TMAO and GDM. The roles of choline, betaine, and carnitine in glucose metabolism warrant further investigation.
An Evaluation of the NANDA International, Inc., Diagnostic Classification Among Spanish Nurses: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Rodríguez-Suárez Claudio-Alberto , Mariscal-Crespo María-Isabel , Hernández-De Luis María-Naira , Teixeira-da-Costa Emília-Isabel Martins , González-de la Torre Héctor , Camacho-Bejarano Rafaela
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: The NANDA International, Inc., (NANDA-I) diagnostic classification is the most widely used standardized nursing language internationally. The EVALUAN-I tool was developed to evaluate the NANDA-I diagnostic classification. The aim was to analyze the use of the NANDA-I diagnostic classification among Spanish nurses and assess its correlation with sociodemographic characteristics. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a non-probabilistic sample of Spanish nurses working in clinical, management, and academic settings using the EVALUAN-I tool (September 2019–December 2020). The analysis was conducted using R® (version 3.6.3, Lavaan package; R Core Team, 2020), with statistical significance set at p < 0.05. This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (2019-190-1). Results: A total of 483 responses were obtained. There was a correlation between the intensity of use of NANDA-I and its application in practice (polychoric correlation = 0.50; p < 0.001). Nurses with a PhD degree considered nursing diagnoses to be less evidence-based (p = 0.037) but more useful (p = 0.035). Academic and research nurses stated that NANDA-I was more useful (p = 0.007), even for exclusion responsibilities (p = 0.034), and that it provided greater significance to diagnoses (p = 0.0012). Conclusions: NANDA-I is the most widely used standardized nursing language in Spain. Nurses’ academic qualifications and work environment significantly influence their perceptions and use of NANDA-I. Advanced education fosters a critical yet positive perspective, highlighting a relationship between the intensity of its use, its application in clinical practice, and the nurse’s educational background. Tools such as EVALUAN-I promote its integration and evidence-based practice, but challenges remain in improving perceptions, scientific evidence, and visibility in electronic health records to enhance its clinical impact and nursing recognition.
Dynamic Monitoring of Chilo suppressalis Resistance to Insecticides and the Potential Influencing Factors
Authors: Mo Wujia , Li Qiang , Lu Zhongxian , Ullah Farman , Guo Jiawen , Xu Hongxing , Lu Yanhui
Published: February 2025

Chilo suppressalis is one of the most important rice pests worldwide, and chlorantraniliprole, abamectin, and methoxyfenozide have been widely used to control this pest in China. However, the control efficiency in the field has dramatically decreased in recent years. Therefore, assessing the impacts of different factors on C. suppressalis resistance is essential for maintaining control effectiveness and managing resistant populations. Herein, we investigated insecticide resistance and its potential influencing factors (biotic and abiotic factors) in C. suppressalis field populations, using bioassays and biochemical and molecular diagnostic approaches. The results showed that the resistance levels of most field populations of C. suppressalis have evolved to moderate-to-high levels to the tested insecticides. The toxicity correlation analysis indicated that there was a significant positive correlation between the resistance levels of abamectin and methoxyfenozide, whereas GST activity was positively correlated with abamectin and methoxyfenozide resistance in C. suppressalis. EST and P450 activities showed significantly positive correlation with the resistance of chlorantraniliprole and methoxyfenozide, while the increase in temperature enhanced EST enzyme activity and was positively correlated with the evolution of resistance to methoxyfenozide. Overall, our study provides a systematic understanding of the dynamic resistance status and its influencing factors of C. suppressalis to insecticides. These findings will help clarify the resistance levels and the influencing factors in the resistance development of C. suppressalis, providing a theoretical basis for the resistance management of this insect species.
Mapping of a Quantitative Trait Locus for Stay-Green Trait in Common Wheat
Authors: Li Xin , Bai Xin , Wu Lijuan , Wang Congya , Liu Xinghui , Li Qiqi , Zhang Xiaojun , Chen Fang , Lu Chengda , Gao Wei , Cheng Tianling
Published: February 2025

The stay-green (SG) trait enhances photosynthetic activity during the late grain-filling period, benefiting grain yield under drought and heat stresses. CH7034 is a wheat breeding line with SG. To clarify the SG loci carried by CH7034 and obtain linked molecular markers, in this study, a recombinant inbred line (RIL) population derived from the cross between CH7034 and non-SG SY95-71 was genotyped using the Wheat17K single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array, and a high-density genetic map covering 21 chromosomes and consisting of 2159 SNP markers was constructed. Then, the chlorophyll content of flag leaf from each RIL was estimated for mapping, and one QTL for SG on chromosome 7D was identified, temporarily named QSg.sxau-7D, with the maximum phenotypic variance explained of 8.81~11.46%. A PCR-based diagnostic marker 7D-16 for QSg.sxau-7D was developed, and the CH7034 allele of 7D-16 corresponded to the higher flag leaf chlorophyll content, while the 7D-16 SY95-71 allele corresponded to the lower value, which confirmed the genetic effect on SG of QSg.sxau-7D. QSg.sxau-7D located in the 526.4~556.2 Mbp interval is different from all the known SG loci on chromosome 7D, and 69 high-confidence annotated genes within the interval expressed throughout the entire period of flag leaf senescence. Moreover, results of an association analysis based on the diagnostic marker showed that there is a positive correlation between QSg.sxau-7D and thousand-grain weight. Our results revealed a novel QTL QSg.sxau-7D whose CH7034 allele had a strong effect on SG, which can be applied in further wheat molecular breeding.
Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Almond (Prunus dulcis) Cultivars to Drought Stress in Semi-Arid Conditions in Iran
Authors: Bakhtiari Esmaeil Safavi , Mousavi Asghar , Yadegari Mehrab , Haghighati Bijan , Martínez-García Pedro José
Published: February 2025

Identifying and selecting almond cultivars with drought tolerance traits is crucial for developing more resilient cultivars, especially in regions prone to water scarcity or facing changing climate conditions. In this study, the physiological and biochemical responses of different almond cultivars to water stress were evaluated using a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with three replications at the Agricultural and Natural Resources Research Center of Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari Province, Shahrekord, Iran, during the 2020 and 2021 growing seasons. During each season, the drought stress treatments were applied for four months prior to the collection of leaf tissue and assessment of the physiological and biochemical traits of the treated trees. In general, significant differences were observed for the different effects considered in the fitted model (years, repetitions, cultivars, drought treatments). The relative water content, as well as the chlorophyll a and b contents in the leaves of the evaluated cultivars, significantly decreased with increasing stress intensity. However, the total phenol content and the activities of antioxidant enzymes increased in response to drought stress. There were considerable differences in the studied cultivars’ responses to increasing drought intensity. According to the results, cultivars “Shahrood 8”, “Garnem”, and “Shahrood 12” demonstrated a high antioxidant capacity and the highest resistance, as observed through a smaller reduction in the relative water content under severe drought stress compared with the other cultivars. These results provide valuable insights that contribute to the development of more resilient almond cultivars and rootstocks, particularly in regions susceptible to water scarcity or those experiencing changing climatic conditions.
Development and Evaluation of a Polymer Composite Material Reinforced by Tectona Grandis Fiber, with Static Analysis
Authors: Bavanam Nagaraja Reddy Sandeep , Buddha Kishor , Chandra Babu Naidu Kadiyala , Baba Basha Dudekula
Published: February 2025

This research seeks to investigate the viability of using Tectona grandis wood powder as a reinforcement material in polymer matrix composites because of the increasing awareness of natural fibers that offer impressive characteristics and cost-effectiveness in addition to being biodegradable. The fibers were mixed with epoxy resin, and the mixture was passed through a filter to remove fiber bundles and then compression molded to form composites, which were cured in an oven. Different experiments were performed on the composite to measure its mechanical characteristics. The tests performed were a tensile test to measure the mechanical properties of the material like strength and elastic properties, a compression test for evaluating the behavior of the material under a compressive load, a hardness test for the rate of indentation resistivity, and an impact test for the material’s ability to withstand shock loads. The results showed that fiber reinforcement caused a significant enhancement in the mechanical aspect of the composite, where the compression strength obtained was 249.83 MPa, and the tensile strength obtained was 17.98 MPa. SEM microstructural analysis and a moisture absorption test were performed, while an additional analysis was carried out using Ansys work bench software. This research proves that Tectona grandis wood powder improves the mechanical properties of polymer composites and represents a viable substitute for synthetic reinforcements.
Poly(oligoethylene glycol methylether methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate) Aggregates as Nanocarriers for Curcumin and Quercetin
Authors: Pantelaiou Michaila Akathi , Vagenas Dimitrios , Pispas Stergios
Published: February 2025

Amphiphilic statistical copolymers can be utilized for the formulation of nanocarriers for the drug delivery of insoluble substances. Oligoethylene glycol methylether methacrylate and methyl methacrylate are two biocompatible monomers that can be used for biological applications. In this work, the synthesis of linear poly(oligoethylene glycol methylether methacrylate-co-methyl methacrylate), P(OEGMA-co-MMA), and statistical copolymers via reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization is reported. P(OEGMA-co-MMA) copolymers with different comonomer compositions were synthesized and characterized by size exclusion chromatography (SEC), 1H-NMR, and ATR-FTIR spectroscopy. Self-assembly studies were carried out by the dissolution of polymers in water and via the co-solvent protocol. For the characterization of the formed nanoaggregates, DLS, zeta potential, and fluorescence spectroscopy (FS) experiments were performed. Such measurements delineate the association of copolymers into aggregates with structural characteristics dependent on copolymer composition. In order to investigate the drug encapsulation properties of the formed nanoparticles, curcumin and quercetin were loaded into them. The co-solvent protocol was followed for the encapsulation of varying concentrations of the two drugs. Nanocarrier formulation properties were confirmed by DLS while UV–Vis and FS experiments revealed the encapsulation loading and the optical properties of the drug-loaded nanosystems in each case. The maximum encapsulation efficiency was found to be 54% for curcumin and 49% for quercetin. For all nanocarriers, preliminary qualitive biocompatibility studies were conducted by the addition of FBS medium in the copolymer aqueous solutions which resulted in no significant interactions between copolymer aggregates and serum proteins. Novel nanocarriers of curcumin and quercetin were fabricated as a first step for the utilization of these statistical copolymer nanosystems in nanomedicine.
Faithful Innovation: Negotiating Institutional Logics for AI Value Alignment Among Christian Churches in America
Authors: Cheong Pauline Hope , Liu Liming
Published: February 2025

As artificial intelligence (AI) technologies are progressively integrated across life domains, religious organizations are negotiating opportunities and tensions as AI applications are incorporated into their daily practices. Given the limited and growing research on AI and religion, this study explores how religious leaders perceive and manage emerging automation to align with institutional values. Drawing upon in-depth interviews with pastors in Christian churches in the United States, this study reveals how they understand and prioritize their mission, community solidarity, and beliefs regarding human dignity and agency in their AI adoption. This study helps shed light on the significance of faithful adherence to values in advancing responsible AI and religious human–machine communication. Findings also highlight the performance of religious authority amid the plurality of institutional logics in current church settings. This paper concludes with a call for future research to extend our understanding of the socio-cultural implications of automation and recognize efforts by key religious leadership to influence AI adoption, ethics, and governance.