bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Study on the Prediction of Long-Term Carbon Absorption by Applying the Renewal Scenario of Forest in Korea
Authors: Kwon Soongil , Chang Yoon-Seong , Kim Junbeum , Hwang Yong Woo , Lata Jean-Christophe
Published: January 2025

As global warming has emerged as an essential global solution, the role of carbon neutrality is required to respond to rapidly changing environmental policies. Forests are an important means for achieving carbon neutrality as they act as a key carbon sink, and, among them, forest management called afforestation is emerging as a decisive factor. However, although various studies are being conducted to enhance carbon absorption capacity, there are not many long-term research cases on afforestation. In this study, the cumulative carbon absorption for a total of 90 years from 1 January 2020 to 31 December 2100 was set as the baseline. Various changes were made according to the cyclical trend of the species and age classes planted nationwide, and various results were derived through the regeneration scenario. As a result of the study, the difference between the maximum value and the baseline CO2 absorption was approximately 130 million t CO2 when compared with the 90-year cumulative value. When converted into an annual unit, it increased by more than 14 million t CO2. Based on the highest figures, compared with statistics from the Ministry of Environment’s Greenhouse Gas Information Center, it was confirmed that the forest absorption source, which was offset by 6.26 percent in 2019, could be changed by up to 8.74 percent. When analyzing the maximum figures from this study, depending on the method of afforestation, the greenhouse gases emitted by approximately 9.32 million passenger cars per year could be offset. In conclusion, among the carbon neutrality tasks that must be addressed at the national level, it is very important to establish long-term direction decisions and detailed plans for the forest sector, which is the core of carbon sinks, and a strategic approach is essential. Based on this study, it is expected that a more systematic direction can be presented for planning and implementing future afforestation.
Thermal Effect of Firebrand Accumulation in Ceramic Roof Tiles
Authors: Zitouni Mohamed , Tiago Arruda Mário Rui , Cantor Pedro , Branco Fernando
Published: January 2025

This paper presents investigations concerning the thermal firebrand reaction due to its accumulation in the top of ceramic roof tiles, commonly applied to the exterior of dwellings in southern Europe. A large-scale fire experiment is conducted, wherein firebrands are placed above the tiles and temperature readings are taken from multiple layers of the building components. The selection of materials for the roof layer assembly was based on recommendations for either fire resistance or high temperature behaviour. The test follows the fire setup recommended in the California Building Code for firebrand deposition. This investigation will allow for a more accurate verification of the firebrand reaction in the roof, including the type of ignition, the creation of smoke and droplets, and even their mechanical ability to withstand elevated temperatures.
Oxidative Stability of Novel Peptides (Linusorbs) in Flaxseed Meal-Fortified Gluten-Free Bread
Authors: Shim Youn Young , Burnett Peta-Gaye G. , Olivia Clara M. , Zou Xian-Guo , Lee Sung Jin , Kim Hye-Jin , Kim Young Jun , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: January 2025

Flaxseed meal, rich in water-soluble gums, improves the texture of gluten-free (GF) products. Bioactive antioxidant peptides from flaxseed, known as linusorbs (LOs) or cyclolinopeptides, may provide health benefits. However, the stability of flaxseed-derived LOs during dough preparation, baking, and storage remains unclear. To investigate this, GF bread dough and bread were prepared with flaxseed meal, and the LO content was determined in the flaxseed meal, the bread flour with the flaxseed meal, the dough, and the bread. The LO levels were also monitored during storage at various temperatures (−18 °C, 4 °C, and 22–23 °C) for 0, 1, 2, and 4 weeks using high-performance liquid chromatography–diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). The levels of oxidized LOs, such as [1–9-NαC],[1-(Rs,Ss)-MetO]-linusorb B2 (LO14), remained relatively stable in the flaxseed meal and the flour derived from it across under all conditions for up to 4 weeks. Due to microbial contamination, the dough could not be stored at either 4 or 21 °C, and the bread could only be stored at 21 °C for one week. However, the bread and dough could be stored for up to 4 weeks at −18 °C, and the bread at 4 °C, without a significant loss of LOs. The main changes in LOs occurred during processing rather than storage. Reduced LOs were found in higher concentrations in the flour and meal compared to the dough and bread, without a corresponding increase in oxidized LOs. The flaxseed meal-fortified bread maintained oxidative stability when stored at low temperatures. This is the first study to investigate the effect of baking conditions on LO content and antioxidant properties.
An Integrated Method for the Reconstruction of Private Renaissance Exhibition Rooms (camerini) Starting from Ippolito II d’Este’s Cabinet of Paintings at His Tiburtine Villa
Authors: Occhipinti Carmelo , Patroni Olga Concetta , Gaiani Marco , Cipriani Luca , Fantini Filippo
Published: January 2025

This paper presents a new object of study—the so-called camerini, private rooms for study and reflection in the great stately palaces of the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, which contained riches and artistic heritage of inestimable value and were characterized by very dim lighting. Analysis of the camerini, true precursors of the modern museum, is not only study of a specific subject but also extremely relevant because it allows us to re-analyze the entire evolution of the museum type and its characteristics, discovering its origins, following its evolution, and critically reviewing its current features. Starting from the case study of the Quarto Camerino of the Villa d’Este in Tivoli, a superset of the specific features of this type of space and possible problems in its 3D reconstruction, this article presents a method and a workflow aimed at reconstruction and visualization, with high visual quality of these spaces and their features. Digital surveying technologies were integrated with advanced methods that allowed for the reproduction of the full optical properties of spatial surfaces and with tools for semantic modeling and visualization to generate a digital artifact that is consistent with the available information and its interpretations and that can be analyzed both perceptually and analytically.
Lavender Breeding for Winter Hardiness in a Temperate Climate
Authors: Kryuchkova Viktoriya , Evtyukhova Anastasia , Avdeev Sergey , Donskih Vitaly , Shelepova Olga , Ladyzhenskaya Olga , Gorbunov Yuri
Published: January 2025

Lavandula angustifolia is a promising essential oil and ornamental crop whose distribution in the temperate zone and northern regions is limited by its low winter hardiness. Analyzing the causes of low winter hardiness will facilitate the selection of the most winter-hardy hybrids. The study goal is to evaluate the climatic conditions and winter hardiness of narrow-leaved lavender and to determine critical conditions for the successful overwintering of plants in the conditions of Moscow. The studies were conducted in the laboratory of cultivated plants of MBG RAS from 2015 to 2022. The research objects were 72 lavender hybrids. The assessment of hybrids’ winter hardiness was carried out after complete snow melt. Average daily temperature, snow cover height, and precipitation were considered daily. Data statistical processing was carried out using Microsoft Excel and PAST 4.5 software. Optimal lavender overwintering conditions were formed in 2018 and the greatest plant damage was observed in 2017. The research years were grouped by winter hardiness structured into clusters, which allowed us to identify common features in climatic conditions and to identify critical periods of the winter period leading to a decrease in winter hardiness. Temperature fluctuations in winter, frequent temperature transitions over the 0 °C mark, high levels of snow cover and the formation of ice deposits led to severe damage to some lavender hybrids. Severe frosts in the absence of snow cover can lead to the death of lavender plants in the temperate zone. Lavender hybrids were grouped by winter hardiness into two clusters and 11 subclusters. A group of hybrids with consistently high resistance has been selected throughout the years of the study; these hybrids are the most promising for further hybridization.
Examining Health Insurance and Non-Medical Challenges Among Vietnamese Americans in Texas During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Le Alexander , Siddiqi Saba , Nguyen Celine , King Ben , Yeh Paul Gerardo , Diep Jannette , Gilbert Lauren , Nguyen Bich-May
Published: January 2025

When COVID-19 data on Asian Americans are available, they are frequently aggregated, concealing community-specific concerns. Consequently, there is limited COVID-19 literature on Vietnamese Americans. In this study, we investigated the association between health insurance coverage and non-medical challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, in Vietnamese Americans in Texas. The NIH Community Engagement Alliance (CEAL) Common Survey 2 was administered electronically in English and Vietnamese and contained 23 questions about non-medical drivers of health, COVID-19 vaccination, and research participation. Vietnamese American adults in Texas were recruited between September 2021 and March 2022 via partnerships with community organizations. Responses were compared and analyzed using logistic regression. Of 217 respondents, 23 (11%) were uninsured. Of the uninsured participants, 43% lost health insurance coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic. Uninsured individuals had significantly higher odds of experiencing non-medical challenges, including obtaining housing (OR = 6.10, p < 0.001), food (OR = 6.41, p < 0.001), and medications (OR = 3.45, p < 0.05) than insured individuals. Uninsured individuals had a significantly longer time-lapse since seeing a healthcare provider (ordinal OR = 0.20, p < 0.05) than insured individuals. Thus, lack of insurance is strongly associated with non-medical challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic among Vietnamese Americans in Texas. Disaggregating data can address non-medical drivers of health, advancing equity for marginalized communities.
“One Size Doesn’t Fit All”: Design Considerations for an Exercise Program to Improve Physical Function in Older Veterans with Serious Mental Illness
Authors: Browne Julia , Mills Whitney L. , Lopez Courtney T. , Philip Noah S. , Hall Katherine S. , Young Alexander S. , Guthrie Kate M. , Wu Wen-Chih
Published: January 2025

Older adults with serious mental illness (SMI) (i.e., schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder) have compromised physical function that adversely affects their quality of life. Exercise is an effective intervention to improve function in older persons; however, older people with SMI experience barriers to exercise engagement. This study sought to obtain feedback on an exercise program in development for older people with SMI that comprised home-based exercise delivery, individualized exercise prescription, and motivational health coaching calls. Individual interviews and focus groups were conducted with older Veterans with SMI (n = 3) and clinical staff serving this population (directors: n = 3; clinicians: n = 15, k = 3) to elicit feedback on the perceived feasibility and acceptability of the preliminary program and recommendations for modifications to the program. Rapid analysis was used to summarize transcripts of audio-recorded interviews and focus groups. Results indicated a strong perceived feasibility and acceptability of the preliminary intervention because of how the individualized exercise prescription component (i.e., exercise plan) would be personalized to the Veteran’s preferences and abilities. Clinical staff participants expressed concerns about how the lack of real-time supervision would negatively affect exercise completion. Participants recommended tailoring the home-based exercise delivery and motivational health coaching calls components to each Veteran’s unique context.
Assessment of Perceived Physical Literacy and Its Relationship with 24-Hour Movement Guidelines in Adolescents: The ENERGYCO Study
Authors: Valle-Muñoz Víctor Manuel , Águila-Lara Estela , Ávila-García Manuel , Segura-Díaz José Manuel , Campos-Garzón Pablo , Barranco-Ruiz Yaira , Saucedo-Araujo Romina Gisele , Villa-González Emilio
Published: January 2025

Scientific evidence suggests that meeting the 24-hour movement guidelines is associated with numerous health benefits. One concept that emphasizes an individual’s active lifestyle is physical literacy (PL). However, the relationship between PL and 24 h movement guidelines in adolescents has not been analyzed to date. The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between perceived physical literacy (PPL) and adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines in Spanish adolescents. This cross-sectional study included a total of 56 adolescents (mean age 13.2 ± 1.3 years). PL was assessed using the Spanish Perceived Physical Literacy Instrument for Adolescents (S-PPLI), categorizing participants into low, medium, and high PPL levels. To determine compliance with movement guidelines (24-hour movement), physical activity was assessed through accelerometry, while screen time and sleep duration were evaluated using questionnaires. One-way ANOVA and chi-square analysis were used to examine PPL levels and adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines. The results indicated that higher levels of PPL were associated with greater adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines. Specifically, most participants met one or two recommendations as PPL increased (p = 0.002). In the medium PPL group, 50% met one recommendation, 37.5% met two, and 12.5% did not meet any, while in the high PPL group, 52.8% met one recommendation, 41.7% met two, and 5.6% did not meet any. These findings suggest that higher levels of PPL are associated with greater adherence to the 24-hour movement guidelines. Future studies should explore this association in larger samples of Spanish adolescents and should promote the practical implications regarding the importance of designing educational programs. This should be achieved through curricula that are based on PL and that integrate strategies to reduce screen time, promote healthy sleep habits, and foster a comprehensive and sustainable understanding of these among adolescents.
Integration of Genetic and Imaging Data to Detect QTL for Root Traits in Interspecific Soybean Populations
Authors: Islam Mohammad Shafiqul , Lee Jeong-Dong , Song Qijian , Jo Hyun , Kim Yoonha
Published: January 2025

Wild soybean, which has many desirable traits, such as adaptability to climate change-related stresses, is a valuable resource for expanding the narrow genetic diversity of cultivated soybeans. Plants require roots to adapt to different environments and optimize water and nutrient uptake to support growth and facilitate the storage of metabolites; however, it is challenging and costly to evaluate root traits under field conditions. Previous studies of quantitative trait loci (QTL) have been mainly based on cultivated soybean populations. In this study, an interspecific mapping population from a cross between wild soybean ‘PI483463’ and cultivar ‘Hutcheson’ was used to investigate QTLs associated with root traits using image data. Our results showed that 39 putative QTLs were distributed across 10 chromosomes (chr.). Seventeen of these were clustered in regions on chr. 8, 14, 15, 16, and 17, accounting for 19.92% of the phenotypic variation. We identified five significant QTL clusters influencing root-related traits, such as total root length, surface area, lateral total length, and number of tips, across five chr., with favorable alleles from both wild and cultivated soybeans. Furthermore, we identified eight candidate genes controlling these traits based on functional annotation. These genes were highly expressed in root tissues and directly or indirectly affected soybean root growth, development, and stress responses. Our results provide valuable insights for breeders aiming to optimize soybean root traits and leveraging genetic diversity from wild soybean species to develop varieties with improved root morphological traits, ultimately enhancing overall plant growth, productivity, and resilience.
Perspectives of Genome Editing Mediated Haploid Inducer Systems in Legumes
Authors: Liu Yiqian , Elshan Musazade , Li Geng , Han Xiao , Chen Xiao , Feng Xianzhong
Published: January 2025

Genome editing-mediated haploid inducer systems (HISs) present a promising strategy for enhancing breeding efficiency in legume crops, which are vital for sustainable agriculture due to their nutritional benefits and ability to fix nitrogen. Traditional legume breeding is often slow and complicated by the complexity of legumes’ genomes and the challenges associated with tissue culture. Recent advancements have broadened the applicability of HISs in legume crops, facilitating a reduction in the duration of the breeding cycle. By integrating genome editing technology with haploid breeding systems, researchers can achieve precise genetic modifications and rapidly produce homozygous lines, thereby significantly accelerating the development of desired traits. This review explores the current status and future prospects of genome editing-mediated HISs in legumes, emphasizing the mechanisms of haploid induction; recent breakthroughs; and existing technical challenges. Furthermore, we highlight the necessity for additional research to optimize these systems across various legume species, which has the potential to greatly enhance breeding efficiency and contribute to the sustainability of legume production.
Progesterone Promotes Anti-Anxiety/Depressant-like Behavior and Trophic Actions of BDNF in the Hippocampus of Female Nuclear Progesterone Receptor, but Not 5α-Reductase, Knockout Mice
Authors: Frye Cheryl A. , Cleveland Daina M. , Sadarangani Anjali , Torgersen Jennifer K.
Published: January 2025

Progestogens’ anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects and mechanisms are not well-understood. Progestogens are hypothesized to have anti-anxiety and anti-depressive effects on behavior, independent of actions at nuclear progestin receptors (NPRs) and dependent on allopregnanolone (5α-pregnan-3α-ol-20-one; 3α,5α-THP), a 5α-reduced, neuroactive metabolite of progesterone (P4). Adult c57 mice in behavioral estrus (proestrus; pro) showed more anti-anxiety-like and anti-depressant-like behavior and higher levels of estradiol (E2), P4, and allopregnanolone in the hippocampus/amygdala complex. Proestrus c57 > 5α-reductase knockout (5αRKO) mice made more central entries in an open field than diestrus c57 and 5αRKO mice that were not different. Ovariectomized (OVX) c57 mice administered 1, 2, or 4 mg/kg P4 SC showed dosage-dependent increases in central entries in an open field (more anti-anxiety-like behavior); 5αRKO mice had maximal increases at 1–2 mg/kg P4. OVX c57 and 5αRKO mice showed maximum increases in central entries with SC 3α,5α-THP (4 mg/kg), and c57s showed a similar maximal response to P4 (4 mg/kg), but 5αRKOs response was half at that dosage. P4 (4 mg/kg SC to OVX c57 or progestin receptor knockout (PRKO) mice decreased immobility (depression-like behavior) in the forced swim task. Effects of E2 and veh were similar in both groups. Levels of 3α,5α-THP in the hippocampus/amygdala were consistent with effects on central entries in the open field. Levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) in the hippocampus/amygdala were greater among E2-primed (0.09 mg/kg, SC) vs vehicle-administered mice. In sum, adult female mice can be responsive to P4 for anti-anxiety/anti-depressant-like behavior; such effects may be independent of NPRs but require 5α-reduction and E2’s priming actions at BDNF in the hippocampus/amygdala complex.
Unsymmetrical Bis(thiosemicarbazone) Ligands and Their Nickel(II) Complexes: Synthesis, Characterization and Photocatalytic Activity
Authors: Burón Rodrigo , Calatayud David G. , Mendiola M. A. , López-Torres Elena
Published: January 2025

The widespread use of organic dyes in industrial processes has led to a considerable release of these compounds into water systems, making the removal of organic contaminants from freshwater a pressing challenge. Photocatalysis, particularly through coordination compounds, presents a promising solution to this problem. In this study, we report the synthesis and characterization of three novel dissymmetric bis(thiosemicarbazone) ligands and their corresponding nickel(II) complexes, which have been extensively analyzed using various techniques. We evaluated the photocatalytic degradation of methyl orange by these nickel complexes, with results demonstrating that they exhibit superior efficiency compared to previously reported nickel-based complexes. Theoretical calculations reveal a correlation between the HOMO–LUMO energy gap and the energies of the involved orbitals. Additionally, with the growing demand for sustainable fuels that do not contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, molecular hydrogen stands out as a promising candidate. Given the potential of bis(thiosemicarbazone) complexes for electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution, we performed preliminary experiments to assess the ability of these nickel complexes to function as photocatalysts for water splitting. The results show that the three nickel complexes successfully generate hydrogen under the tested conditions, although further optimization is necessary to improve hydrogen production efficiency.
Exploring the Life Cycle of Bactrocera latifrons: A Detailed Age-Stage, Two-Sex Life Table
Authors: Zhai Yutong , Zeng Xianru , Wei Dewei , Jiang Xiaodong , Long Xiuzhen , He Zhan , Yu Yonghao , Gao Xuyuan
Published: January 2025

Bactrocera latifrons (Hendel) is a serious pest requiring quarantine in many countries worldwide. It has caused huge economic losses to the cultivation of solanaceous plants, such as peppers and eggplants. In this study, we constructed an age-stage, two-sex life table using eggplant as the host to clarify the occurrence and damage patterns of B. latifrons on this crop for better field prevention and control in the laboratory. The results showed that the egg, larval, and pupal stages lasted 4.3, 11.3, and 9.3 days, respectively. The average lifespan of adult females and males was 101 and 102 days, respectively. The egg hatching rate, larval survival rate, and pupal emergence rate were 96%, 88%, and 84%, respectively. The average generation time was 43.96 days, with an intrinsic rate of increase of 0.097 d−1 and a net reproductive rate of 73.4. We established the life table based on group rearing. The research findings provide essential data for rearing B. latifrons in the laboratory, offer a reference for the dynamic prediction of field population dynamics, and offer a theoretical foundation for developing pest control strategies for B. latifrons.
Hybrid Coronary Revascularisation: Indications, Techniques, and Outcomes
Authors: Fazmin Ibrahim T. , Ali Jason M.
Published: January 2025

Hybrid coronary revascularisation (HCR) integrates coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) to combine the benefits of minimally invasive surgery and advanced stent technology. Typically, HCR involves off-pump left internal mammary artery (LIMA) to left anterior descending artery (LAD) bypass via minimally invasive direct coronary artery bypass (MIDCAB), complemented by PCI to non-LAD vessels. This approach avoids a full sternotomy and cardiopulmonary bypass while preserving the advantages of surgical revascularisation. Patient selection for HCR should be guided by a multidisciplinary heart team, targeting those with severe LAD disease and suitable non-LAD lesions for PCI. This review outlines the surgical techniques, anticoagulation strategies, and procedural sequencing employed in HCR, along with real-world outcomes from observational studies and randomised trials. While current evidence supports the safety and feasibility of HCR in appropriately selected patients, further large-scale randomised trials are needed to clarify its role in comparison to standalone CABG or PCI.
Therapeutic Potential of Experimental Stereotactic Hippocampal Cell Transplant in the Management of Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Agavriloaei Loredana Mariana , Iliescu Bogdan Florin , Pintilie Robert Mihai , Turliuc Dana Mihaela
Published: January 2025

Due to a continuous increase in life expectancy and the progress made in specialized healthcare, the incidence of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) has dramatically increased to the point that it has become one of the main challenges of contemporary medicine. Despite a huge scientific and clinical effort, current treatments manage just a temporary alleviation of symptomatology but offer no cure. Modern trials involving cell transplantation in experimental animals require the involvement of neurosurgeons in the treatment protocol. CSF shunting, intraventricular infusions, or DBS for symptoms relief have been an integral part of the therapeutic arsenal from the very beginning. The development of stereotactic surgery has facilitated the experimental potential of cell transplantation in the hippocampus for Alzheimer’s disease. We conducted a narrative review of the literature in the top three medical databases (PubMed, Science Direct, and Google Scholar) using the keywords “Alzheimer’s disease”, “hippocampus”, and “transplant”. After eliminating duplicates, 241 papers were selected and screened by title and abstract. Two reviewers independently analyzed the 88 papers and chose 32 experiments that involved stereotactic hippocampal transplantation of cells in experimental animals with AD. The stereotactic transplantation of cells such as mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), neuronal stem cells (NSCs), induced pluripotent cells (iPSCs), astrocytes, and derivates from stem cells was analyzed. The experiments used either a chemically induced or transgenic AD model and observed the impact of the stereotactic transplantation with behavioral testing, MRS spectroscopy, and biochemical analysis. The stereotaxic method delivers minimal invasive treatment option by cell transplantation at the hippocampus. The results showed that amyloid deposits were lower after transplantation, showing a positive impact. Other impactful results involve proliferation of neurogenesis, downregulation of anti-inflammatory response, and increased neuronal plasticity. The increased precision with which the stereotaxic method manages to target deep structures of the brain and the results of the reviewed papers could represent an argument for future human trials. More studies are needed to confirm the viability of the transplanted cells and the long-term effects.
Predictors of Severe Coughing and Its Impact on Bronchoalveolar Lavage and Transbronchial Lung Biopsy in Patients with Diffuse Lung Disease: Evaluation of Bronchoscopy Safety
Authors: Kobayashi Fumi , Saraya Takeshi , Kurokawa Nozomi , Aso Jumpei , Yamada Sho , Nakajima Kei , Doi Kazuyuki , Akizawa Takatora , Takagi Ryo , Ishikawa Narishige , Kasuga Keisuke , Saito Masaoki , Yamaguchi Chika , Nunokawa Hiroki , Nakamoto Yasuo , Ishida Manabu , Sada Mitsuru , Nakamoto Keitaro , Takata Saori , Ishii Haruyuki
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Bronchoscopy is an invasive procedure, and patient coughing during the examination has been reported to cause significant distress. This study aimed to identify predictors of coughing severity and assess its impact on the procedure during bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) and transbronchial lung biopsy (TBLB). Methods: We conducted a prospective study involving 119 consecutive patients with diffuse lung disease who underwent BAL and TBLB at Kyorin University Hospital from April 2019 to December 2023. Cough severity was scored on a scale of 0 to 3, with scores of 0–1 considered mild and 2–3 considered severe. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with severe coughing during the procedure. Results: Severe coughing was significantly associated with Grade 2 or higher bleeding (OR 6.230, 95% CI 2.220–17.400, p < 0.001), fewer TBLB specimens collected (OR 0.708, 95% CI 0.530–0.945, p = 0.019), and pre-procedural dyspnea (OR 2.560, 95% CI 1.110–5.870, p = 0.027). Conclusions: Severe coughing during bronchoscopy is associated with increased bleeding and reduced specimen collection. For patients with pre-procedural dyspnea, proactive cough management may improve procedural safety and outcomes.
Opioid Utilisation in Hungary: National and Regional Analysis in Ambulatory and Hospital Care Sector
Authors: Dewi Ni Made Amelia Ratnata , Matuz Mária , Szok Délia , Engi Zsófia , Soós Gyöngyvér , Csenki Melinda , Csüllög Emese , Balog Attila , Csupor Dezső , Viola Réka , Benkő Ria
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Opioid consumption analysis in Hungary, particularly through ambulatory and hospital sales data, including regional information, is lacking. This study examines opioid use in both sectors, explores regional variations, and identifies influencing factors. Methods: A cross-sectional analysis was conducted using sales data from ambulatory and hospital care, quantifying opioid consumption in defined daily doses (DDD) per 1000 inhabitants (DID) and per day, or DDD per 100 patient days (DHPD) at national and regional levels. Correlations between opioid utilisation and regional variables were assessed using Spearman’s rank test. Results: Total opioid use has risen from 4.73 DID in 2012 to 6.75 DID in 2021, with weak and oral opioids being the most used. Ambulatory care experienced significant increases in weak (61.48%) and oral opioid use (60.01%). Hospital care experienced a decline in DID and stagnation in DHPD. Tramadol combinations grew notably in ambulatory care, with tramadol-paracetamol rising from 0.37 DID to 2.17 DID (484.61% increase) and tramadol-dexketoprofen from 0.12 DID to 0.91 DID (650.27% increase). Interregional differences showed a maximum to minimum ratio of 1.79 in ambulatory and 3.03 in hospital care in 2021. Positive correlations were found between opioid use and geriatric population percentage (r = 0.475; p = 0.035) and, also, unemployment rate (r = 0.546; p = 0.014). A moderate negative correlation was observed between the number of general practitioners (r = −0.458; p = 0.043) and ambulatory care opioid use. Conclusions: Opioid use is increasing in Hungarian ambulatory care while remaining steady in the hospital sector. Regional variations are possibly linked to demographic and economic factors in ambulatory care.
Swallowing Disorders in Ischemic Stroke: A Retrospective Analysis of Dysphagia Severity Differences Based on Hemisphere Damage and Patient Age
Authors: Żdanowicz Anna , Sobkowiak Hanna , Gawrysiak Maciej , Wiszniewska Małgorzata
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Management of the acute phase of ischemic stroke requires intensive interdisciplinary collaboration among medical personnel. Dysphagia, or swallowing disorders, represents a serious complication of stroke. Accurate diagnosis and identification of the causes of dysphagia are essential for implementing effective treatment. The aim of the study was to investigate the impact of age, acute stroke treatment, localization, comorbidities, and early rehabilitation on the severity and progression of dysphagia in patients with acute ischemic stroke. Methods: The study analyzed the severity and progression of dysphagia in patients with ischemic stroke, considering patient age, stroke localization, comorbidities, and the impact of thrombolytic therapy and early rehabilitation on swallowing outcomes. Results: Severe dysphagia was more common among older patients and those with cardiovascular conditions. Early rehabilitation was particularly effective in improving swallowing in right hemisphere strokes, while thrombolytic therapy demonstrated benefits for patients under 65 years. Conclusions: Therapy led to an improvement in the condition of all patients with dysphagia following ischemic stroke. Further prospective research is needed to better understand swallowing disorders and optimize treatment.
Aortic Stenosis Prevention: Is a New Cardiovascular Disease Paradigm Coming of Age?
Authors: Halapas Antonios , Cokkinos Dennis V.
Published: January 2025

Calcific aortic stenosis (CAS) is currently recognized as the third most frequent cardiovascular disorder in persons aged above 60 years, after atherosclerotic disease and hypertension, and together with its precursor aortic sclerosis it has been found in more than 30% of elderly individuals. CAS is an active multifactorial process characterized by a progressive fibro-calcific remodeling and thickening of the AV leaflets caused by hemodynamic flow factors, genetic factors, lipoprotein deposition, oxidation, chronic inflammation, immunomodulators, and finally osteoblastic transformation of cardiac. Herein a comprehensive state-of-the-art paper is presented regarding the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms of CAS and the potential preventive strategies as an alternative to surgical and interventional treatment.
Pellet-Based Extrusion Additive Manufacturing of Lightweight Parts Using Inflatable Hollow Extrudates
Authors: Habib Md Ahsanul , Elsersawy Rawan , Khondoker Mohammad Abu Hasan
Published: January 2025

Additive manufacturing (AM) has become a key element of Industry 4.0, particularly the extrusion AM (EAM) of thermoplastic materials, which is recognized as the most widely used technology. Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF), however, depends on expensive commercially available filaments, making pellet extruder-based EAM techniques more desirable. Large-format EAM systems could benefit from printing lightweight objects with reduced material use and lower power consumption by utilizing hollow rather than solid extrudates. In this study, a custom extruder head was designed and an EAM system capable of extruding inflatable hollow extrudates from a variety of materials was developed. By integrating a co-axial nozzle-needle system, a thermoplastic shell was extruded while creating a hollow core using pressurized nitrogen gas. This method allows for the production of objects with gradient part density and varied mechanical properties by controlling the inflation of the hollow extrudates. The effects of process parameters— such as extrusion temperature, extrusion speed, and gas pressure were investigated—using poly-lactic acid (PLA) and styrene-ethylene-butylene-styrene (SEBS) pellets. The preliminary tests identified the optimal range of these parameters for consistent hollow extrudates. We then varied the parameters to determine their impact on the dimensions of the extrudates, supported by analyses of microscopic images taken with an optical microscope. Our findings reveal that pressure is the most influential factor affecting extrudate dimensions. In contrast, variations in temperature and extrusion speed had a relatively minor impact, whereas changes in pressure led to significant alterations in the extrudate’s size and shape.
Effectiveness of Staggered Pile Arrangements for Managing River Mouth Closures on Gravel Beaches
Authors: Torii Yamato , Kiku Masami , Mizutani Norimi , Nakamura Tomoaki
Published: January 2025

Several small- and medium-sized rivers connecting to the Shichiri-Mihama coast are closed due to debris. The progression of river mouth closures increases the risk of flooding in the watershed, so countermeasures are necessary. In this study, piles were installed in a staggered pattern to prevent river mouth closures. The hydraulic model experiment was conducted to assess how countermeasure (staggered piles) installation affects topographic change under various wave conditions. The installation of the staggered piles was found to be effective in moving the location of the berm forward more than 10 cm offshore and reducing gravel accumulation by up to 57%. The effect of the staggered piles is particularly significant in wave conditions with small wave gradients. The pile row spacing should be short to maintain the complexity of the staggered arrangement. The effects of changes in the flow velocity field and differences in the bottom sediment should also be considered for practical use. Eventually, the installation of the staggered piles will be expected to prevent the long-term development of berms, thus preventing estuary closure.
Forecasting of Wildfire Probability Occurrence: Case Study of a Mediterranean Island of Italy
Authors: Berardi Davide , Galuppi Marta , Libertà Angelo , Lombardi Mara
Published: January 2025

The growing need to address natural and human-induced disasters while protecting territory remains a key focus for the scientific community. Effective emergency management, especially during wildfires, requires coordinated responses to safeguard lives and assets. This study develops hazard maps to aid emergency planning in Italy and estimate territorial resilience indicators. Focusing on wildfire ignition hazards in Ischia, the study uses a probabilistic model based on fifteen years of wildfire data (2009–2023). By analyzing ignition points and employing a Poisson distribution, it correlates ignition probabilities with vegetation types. The hazard maps reveal that wildfire risk is primarily influenced by the wildland–urban interface and vegetation characteristics, emphasizing the need to integrate territorial and urban factors into wildfire forecasting. The findings also suggest areas for refining the model to enhance risk mitigation strategies.
Wild Emmer (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides) Diversity in Southern Turkey: Evaluation of SSR and Morphological Variations
Authors: Çakır Esra , Alsaleh Ahmad , Bektas Harun , Özkan Hakan
Published: January 2025

Wild emmer wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. dicoccoides) is the ancestral species of cultivated tetraploid wheat with BBAA genomes. Because of its full interfertility with domesticated emmer wheat, this wild species can serve as one of the most important genetic resources to improve durum and bread wheat. To clarify the magnitude of genetic diversity between and within populations of Turkish wild emmer wheat, 169 genotypes of ssp. dicoccoides selected from the 38 populations collected from the three sub-regions (East-1, West-1, and West-2) of the Southeast Anatolia Region of Turkey were molecularly and morphologically characterized. The populations showed significant variation in plant height, heading date, flag leaf area, spike length and number, spikelet, peduncle, lemma, palea, glume and anther lengths, glume hull thickness, anther width, and days to maturity. According to the results of nuclear-SSR analysis, the populations collected from the sub-regions East-1 and West-2 were the most genetically distant (0.539), while the populations collected from the sub-regions West-1 and West-2 were the most genetically similar (0.788) populations. According to the results of AMOVA, there was 84% similarity within the populations studied, while the variation between the populations of the three sub-regions was 16%. In the dendrogram obtained by using nuclear-SSR data, the populations formed two main groups. The populations from the sub-region East-1 were in the first group, and the populations from the sub-regions West-1 and West-2 were in the second group. From the dendrogram, it appears that the populations from the sub-region East-1 were genetically distant from the populations from the sub-regions West-1 and West-2. The results highlight the potential diversity in Southeast Anatolia for wild emmer discovery and utilization.
Associations Between Immune-Related Conditions and Lymphoid Disorders: An Analysis of the Diverse All of Us Research Program
Authors: Terhaar Hanna , Saleem Mohammad , Liu Evan , Yusuf Nabiha
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Studies on the association between immune-mediated disorders and lymphoid disorders have been very limited, especially in diverse populations. The objective of this study is to evaluate the relationship between a variety of immune diseases and lymphoid malignancies. Methods: The NIH “All of Us” database was utilized to perform a cross-sectional analysis between lymphoid disorders and various immune diseases. The adjusted multivariable logistic regression analysis was performed in R to examine the association between lymphoid disorders such as leukemia, lymphoma, and plasma cell neoplasms against a variety of autoimmune diseases. Results: In the study cohort of 316,044 patients, we found significant associations between lymphomas and the aforementioned immune-mediated diseases, with the exception of dermatomyositis and scleroderma. Lymphoid leukemias showed significant associations (p < 0.001) with several autoimmune conditions, including psoriasis, type 1 diabetes, rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ulcerative colitis, and hyperthyroidism. In plasma cell neoplasms, significant associations were found in all but dermatomyositis, scleroderma, vitiligo, and atopic dermatitis (p < 0.001). Conclusions: In this population-level analysis, the majority of immune-mediated diseases were found to be significantly correlated with an increased incidence of lymphoid malignancies. As such, patients diagnosed with immune-mediated diseases should undergo close surveillance and early screening with the goal of early identification and treatment of lymphoid malignancies.
Flexible Pressure Sensors Based on Polyvinylidene Fluoride: A Critical Review
Authors: Li Ming , Zang Huaikuan , Long Jiawei , Sun Sijia , Zhang Yong
Published: January 2025

With the advent of the intelligent era, flexible piezoelectric tactile sensors, as key components for sensing information and transmitting signals, have received worldwide attention. However, piezoelectric pressure sensors are still currently limited, which severely restricts their practical applications. Furthermore, the demonstrations conducted in labs are not accurate to real-world scenarios. Thus, there is an urgent need to further optimize the intrinsic piezoelectric performance and usage characteristics to meet application requirements. As a representative piezoelectric, polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) exhibits significant advantages in terms of excellent flexibility, chemical stability, high electromechanical conversion, low cost, and appropriate acoustic impedance, which allow it to serve as the core matrix in flexible pressure sensors. This paper aims to summarize very recent progress in flexible piezoelectric sensors based on PVDF, including their composition modulation, structure optimization, and applications. Based on a comprehensive summary of recent representative studies, we propose rational perspectives and strategies regarding PVDF-based piezoelectric sensors and provide some new insights for the research and industrial communities.
New Subperiosteal Dental Implant Design with Finite Element Analysis and Mechanical Validation: A Design Validation Study
Authors: Vanaclocha Vicente , Atienza Carlos , Vanaclocha Amparo , Peñuelas Andrés , Gómez-Herrero Juan , Pérez-Carrió Francisco , Diego-Leyda José Antonio , Sáiz-Sapena Nieves , Vanaclocha Leyre
Published: January 2025

New subperiosteal dental implants were designed to offer new options to edentulous patients with severe bone resorption for whom endosseous dental implants are not advisable. In our study, we aimed to design and manufacture subperiosteal dental implants with a minimum volume to facilitate surgical maneuvers and metal coverage by mucosa while ensuring maximal long-term implant strength and functionality. With cone-beam CT-scan data obtained from an edentulous patient, a maxilla and mandible recreation were created, and subperiosteal implants were designed and analyzed with FEA (250 MPa infinite-life limit stress). We redesigned them until they stood the infinite-life limit loads mentioned above. Then, they were manufactured with Ti6Al4V alloy and laser-powder bed fusion technology. All implants withstood mechanical tests (450 N static and 150 N loads for five-million cycle 150 N fatigue tests) with no failures. The first design resulted in maxillary and mandibular implant failures. Through the redesign process, the implant volume was reduced, and the number and placement of bone fixation screws were optimized while maintaining resistance to chewing. Once manufactured, these new implants withstood the loads mentioned above without failure. Our subperiosteal dental implants are an option for edentulous patients with severe maxilla and mandibular bone resorption. Manufactured with Ti6Al4V alloy and laser-powder bed fusion technology, they withstood the above-mentioned mechanical tests without failure.
Microstructural Engineering of Ferroelectric and Electromechanical Properties in 0.65KBT-0.35BCZT Ceramics
Authors: Al-Aaraji Mohammed N. , Wang Bing , Feteira Antonio , Hall David A.
Published: January 2025

The influence of processing procedures and microstructural features on the functional properties of relaxor ferroelectric ceramics are of fundamental interest and directly relevant to their applications in dielectric capacitors and electromechanical sensors/actuators. In the present work, solid solutions of 0.65(K0.5Bi0.5)TiO3-0.35(Ba0.94Ca0.06)(Ti0.93Zr0.07)O3 (0.65KBT-0.35BCZT) were processed by solid-state reaction using two different procedures, distinguished in terms of mixed or separate calcination of the KBT and BCZT components and leading to homogeneous or core-shell-type relaxor ferroelectric ceramics, respectively. Systematic research was conducted on the impact of the processing techniques and air-quenching procedures on the structure and ferroelectric and electromechanical properties. Higher remanent polarization of the separately calcined materials was ascribed to the ferroelectric nature of the core regions, along with the non-ergodic relaxor ferroelectric response in the shell, which was enhanced by the quenching process. It was also demonstrated that the thermal depolarization temperature increased significantly after quenching, from ~100 to ~160 °C for the separately calcined ceramic, and from ~50 to ~130 °C for the mixed material; moreover, these effects are linked to notable improvements in the ferroelectric tetragonal phase content by air-quenching.
The Secondary Lifting Performance of Crawler Crane Under Delay Coefficient Control Strategy
Authors: Zhang Jin , Du Ranheng , Zhang Kuo , Zhang Yin , Li Ying , Chen Xing
Published: January 2025

Crawler cranes are mobile lifting equipment used in the process of hoisting goods. After the initial lifting, the crane may need a secondary lift due to adjustments in the position or height of the load. Addressing the common issue of load slipping during the secondary lift caused by hydraulic motor reversal, this study proposes a control strategy applicable to crawler crane secondary lifting. Initially establishing the dynamic characteristics of the secondary lift system, incorporating a delay coefficient, and matching motor pressure build-up with memory pressure, the strategy considers a variable pump input current control to identify the relationship between motor pressure build-up and brake release. Analyzing the dynamic characteristics of secondary lifting under different conditions, this study resolves the issue of hydraulic motor reversal during the second lift caused by heavy loads. The results of this study on crawler crane secondary lifting indicate that, when using a delay coefficient of 0.70 and releasing the brake, no slip phenomenon occurred during the secondary lift process under different load conditions, categorized as 200 tons, 600 tons, and 1000 tons. This ensures the stability and transition quality of the secondary lift, providing theoretical guidance for the control of the crawler crane secondary lifting.