bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing Drought Severity in Greece Using Geospatial Data and Environmental Indices
Authors: Vasilakou Constantina , Tsesmelis Dimitrios E. , Kalogeropoulos Kleomenis , Barouchas Pantelis E. , Machairas Ilias , Feloni Elissavet G. , Tsatsaris Andreas , Karavitis Christos A.
Published: February 2025

Drought represents a recurring natural event that holds notable socio-economic and environmental consequences. This research aims to analyze drought patterns in Greece by employing the standardized precipitation index (SPI) and several vegetation indices within a Geographic Information System (GIS) framework. GIS is a potent tool for integrating geospatial data, encompassing climatic, topographic, and hydrological information, enabling a comprehensive assessment of drought conditions. By examining historical precipitation data, the SPI quantifies the severity and duration of drought relative to long-term average precipitation. In addition, the SPI is calculated from precipitation data from a total of 152 meteorological stations. Subsequently, geostatistical techniques are applied to generate drought maps (SPI 6- and 12-timescale) and to examine the secondary effects of drought on different land uses. Satellite data are utilized to calculate indices. This is completed using satellite data by calculating the corresponding indices such as the Enhanced Vegetation Index (EVI), Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI), and Normalized Difference Water Index (NDWI). Drought maps extracted using these methods and based on indicators and remote sensing data are useful tools for policymakers, stakeholders, and water experts. The resulting drought maps, based on the indicators and remote sensing data, serve as valuable tools for policymakers and stakeholders.
Insights Through the Endoscope: A Retrospective Study Unraveling the Macroscopic Features of Primary Colorectal Lymphoma
Authors: Gries Jacob J. , Chen Bing , Ney Steven M. , Udoeyo Idorenyin , Deivert Duane E.
Published: February 2025

Introduction: Primary colorectal lymphoma (PCL) is a very rare disease with limited information regarding its macroscopic features. This retrospective descriptive study aims to identify the macroscopic characteristics of PCL and explore treatment trends and outcomes with respect to histopathologic subtypes. Methods: This IRB-approved study from a large academic medical center identified 66 patients with colorectal lymphoma from 1998 to 2022 from a tumor registry. Thirty-four patients met the inclusion criteria of having PCL with available endoscopic data. The macroscopic features of each lesion were identified. Treatment trends and outcomes were examined at the patient level. Data were described using frequency and percentages for categorical characteristics and the median and interquatile range (IQR) for continuous outcomes. Results: A total of 77 PCL lesions were identified. Most were identified on screening or surveillance colonoscopies or colonoscopies performed after abnormal imaging (61.8%). Diffuse large B cell lymphoma (DLBCL) had the highest prevalence (N = 24), followed by follicular lymphoma (n = 21), mantle cell (n = 16), mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) (n = 14), then Burkitt’s (n = 2). More mantle cell (93.8%) and follicular (90.5%) lymphomas were sessile. More MALT lymphomas were ulcerated (71.4%). A higher proportion of follicular (76.2%) and mantle cell (71.4%) lymphomas were diminutive (≤5 mm). More MALT (78.6%), DLBCL (75.0%), and Burkitt’s (100%) were large (≥20 mm). More lesions were found in the sigmoid colon (26.0%), followed by the rectum (22.1%), transverse colon (18.2%), cecum (18.2%), descending colon (10.4%), and ascending colon (5.2%). Overall, most underwent immunotherapy (61.3%) and did not have radiation therapy (81.3%), endoscopic resection (75.0%), and surgery (68.8%). Patients with DLBCL demonstrated higher rates of chemotherapy (70.6%), immunotherapy (87.5%), and remission after intervention (52.9%). Conclusions: Primary colorectal lymphomas display distinct macroscopic features and appear in different locations depending on the histopathologic subtype. Most cases are identified at early stages on screening colonoscopies and demonstrate a 75% two-year survival rate.
Preparing Future Special Education Teachers: Emphasis on Reflection as an Inclusive Practice
Authors: Georgiadi Maria , Papazafiri Maria
Published: February 2025

This review paper aims to highlight the importance of the role of reflection practice of special educators in the inclusion of students with disabilities and special educational needs. Specifically, an attempt at conceptual clarification of reflection is made at the first level, and the models of reflection that have been developed and applied in special education are described. In particular, in the first section, a reference was made to the definitions and types of reflection as described in the international bibliography. Also, the models of reflection that various researchers have developed, and each model has contributed significantly to improving the work of professionals working in special education, are described. Finally, we are referring to specific practical applications of the reflective process. These practices could motivate professionals to use them in their teaching process to create inclusive environments.
G-Quadruplex Structures Formed by Human Telomere and C9orf72 GGGGCC Repeats
Authors: Yan Bing , Suen Monica Ching , Xu Naining , Lu Chao , Liu Changdong , Zhu Guang
Published: February 2025

G-quadruplexes (G4s) are unique nucleic acid structures composed of guanine-rich (G-rich) sequences that can form diverse topologies based on the arrangement of their four strands. G4s have attracted attention for their potential roles in various biological processes and human diseases. In this review, we focus on the G4 structures formed by human telomeric sequences, (GGGTTA)n, and the hexanucleotide repeat expansion, (GGGGCC)n, in the first intron region of the chromosome 9 open reading frame 72 (C9orf72) gene, highlighting their structural diversity and biological significance. Human telomeric G4s play crucial roles in telomere retention and gene regulation. In particular, we provide an in-depth summary of known telomeric G4s and focus on our recently discovered chair-type conformation, which exhibits distinct folding patterns. The chair-type G4s represent a novel folding pattern with unique characteristics, expanding our knowledge of telomeric G4 structural diversity and potential biological functions. Specifically, we emphasize the G4s formed by the (GGGGCC)n sequence of the C9orf72 gene, which represents the most common genetic cause of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) and frontotemporal dementia (FTD). The thorough structural analysis in this review advances our comprehension of the disease mechanism and provides valuable insights into developing targeted therapeutic strategies in ALS/FTD.
Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy: Central Respiratory Chemoreception
Authors: Dereli Ayse S. , Apaire Auriane , El Tahry Riem
Published: February 2025

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a critical concern for individuals suffering from epilepsy, with respiratory dysfunction playing a significant role in its pathology. Fatal seizures are often characterized by central apnea and hypercapnia (elevated CO2 levels), indicating a failure in ventilatory control. Research has shown that both human epilepsy patients and animal models exhibit a reduced hypercapnic ventilatory response in the interictal (non-seizure) period, suggesting an impaired ability to regulate breathing in response to high CO2 levels. This review examines the role of central chemoreceptors—specifically the retrotrapezoid nucleus, raphe nuclei, nucleus tractus solitarius, locus coeruleus, and hypothalamus in this pathology. These structures are critical for sensing CO2 and maintaining respiratory homeostasis. Emerging evidence also implicates neuropeptidergic pathways within these chemoreceptive regions in SUDEP. Neuropeptides like galanin, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide (PACAP), orexin, somatostatin, and bombesin-like peptides may modulate chemosensitivity and respiratory function, potentially exacerbating respiratory failure during seizures. Understanding the mechanisms linking central chemoreception, respiratory control, and neuropeptidergic signaling is essential to developing targeted interventions to reduce the risk of SUDEP in epilepsy patients.
Thermodynamic Analysis on Complex Oxides Formed by Aerodynamic Heating for Ultrahigh-Temperature Ceramic Matrix Composites
Authors: Tsuganezawa Mizuki , Arai Yutaro , Inoue Ryo
Published: February 2025

The oxidation and recession of carbon-fiber-reinforced ultrahigh-temperature ceramic matrix composites (C/UHTCMCs) fabricated via reactive melt infiltration (RMI) using Zr-Ti alloys with three different compositions are evaluated via an arc-jet tunnel test at temperatures above 2000 °C for 60 s. Thermodynamic evaluations show that the recession of the UHTCMCs is prevented by the formation of a solid solution of ZrTiO4 on their exposed surface. Because an increase in the Zr content increases the melting temperature of ZrTiO4, the recession of the composites increases as the Zr content in the infiltrated alloys decreases. UHTCMCs fabricated with Zr-20at%Ti showed the least recession (<5%).
Special Issue “Applied Sport Physiology and Performance—3rd Edition”
Authors: Hornsby W. Guy
Published: February 2025

This Special Issue, “Applied Sport Physiology and Performance—3rd edition”, is a follow up to the previous two iterations (i [...]
Focus on One Swimming Stroke or Compete in Multiple: How Much Specialization Is Needed to Become a World-Class Female Swimmer?
Authors: Born Dennis-Peter , Lorentzen Jenny , Ruiz-Navarro Jesús J. , Stöggl Thomas , Romann Michael , Björklund Glenn
Published: February 2025

Objectives: To investigate performance development and variety in swimming strokes of female swimmers from early junior to elite age. Methods: A total of 194,788 race times of female 200 m swimmers representing 77 nations were ranked at peak performance age and clustered into world-class finalists (>850 swimming points), international-class (750–850), national-class (650–750) and regional-class swimmers (550–650). Annual best times for each swimming stroke were retrospectively extracted throughout adolescence from 13 years of age. Longitudinal performance development and differences between the swimmers’ main and their secondary swimming strokes were analyzed using linear mixed model. Results: World-class freestyle swimmers show significantly (p ≤ 0.042) higher swimming points across all age categories compared to international-, national- and regional-class swimmers. Linear mixed model analysis indicates a significant performance progression for international- and national-class freestyle swimmers up to the 19–20-year-old category (p ≤ 0.038), but an earlier plateau was observed for regional-class swimmers (p = 0.714). Comparing main and secondary swimming strokes, freestyle swimmers show the highest degree of specialization. For breaststroke and individual medleys, specialization increases with increasing performance level and the closer an athlete is to elite age. World-class butterfly and backstroke finalists show the lowest specializations in terms of the smallest number of significant differences compared to performances in their secondary swimming strokes. Conclusions: Higher ranked swimmers show a greater degree of specialization. As different specialization patterns are evident for the various swimming strokes, decision makers and talent specialists should align development guidelines accordingly and base them on the most advantageous combinations of swimming strokes.
Firm Policies and Uncertainty About Risk
Authors: Harper Adam , Lu Yilun , Tembhurne Sumit
Published: February 2025

This study examines how firm-specific financial policies and external factors influence the volatility of implied volatility (VOV), a measure of uncertainty about future risks. Using a sample of 6023 firms from January 2000 to December 2022, we derive VOV measures from IvyDB OptionMetrics and employ high-dynamic fixed-effect (HDFE) regressions to analyze the relationship between corporate debt ratios, working capital financing policies (WCFPs), and investor sentiment. Our findings reveal that aggressive debt policies increase VOV, while moderate WCFPs generate the highest uncertainty, indicating investor ambiguity regarding indecisive strategies. Additionally, high sentiment amplifies the effect of debt ratios on VOV, whereas moderate sentiment drives the influence of WCFPs. Industry dynamics, particularly in sectors like finance and manufacturing, further contribute to variations in VOV.
Theoretical and Experimental Studies of the Structural Chameleon EuYCuTe3
Authors: Ruseikina Anna V. , Grigoriev Maxim V. , Chernyshev Vladimir A. , Roginskii Evgenii M. , Garmonov Alexander A. , Locke Ralf J. C. , Schleid Thomas
Published: February 2025

Layered orthorhombic single crystals of EuYCuTe3 are synthesized using the ampoule method from the elemental precursors taken in the ratio of 1 Eu:1 Y:1 Cu:3 Te by heating up to 1120 K with an excess of CsI as flux. The orthorhombic structure of EuYCuTe3 is established, and structural parameters are obtained using X-ray diffraction. At ambient conditions, the sample crystallizes in the space group Pnma with the unit cell parameters a = 11.2730(7) Å, b = 4.3214(3) Å, c = 14.3271(9) Å. The structure is composed of vertex-connected [CuTe4]7− tetrahedra, which form chains along the [010] direction, and of edge-connected [YTe6]9− octahedra, which form layers parallel to the (010) plane. The Eu2+ cations are found in a capped trigonal prismatic coordination of Te2− anions. The structural phase transition from the α to the β phase is discovered upon heating the sample to 323 K, which comes accompanied with a decrease of [CuTe4]7− tetrahedral distortion. The symmetry of the high-temperature phase is established as ordered in the space group Cmcm (a = 4.3231(3) Å, b = 14.3328(9) Å, c = 11.2843(7) Å). The nature and microscopic mechanism of the phase transition is discussed. By cooling it down below 3 K, the soft ferromagnetic properties of EuYCuTe3 are discovered. The correlation of the ferromagnetic transition temperature in the series of chalcogenides EuYCuCh3 (Ch = S, Se, Te) with the ionic radius of the chalcogenide anion is established. The structural dynamical elastic properties of α- and β-EuYCuTe3 were calculated within the ab initio approach. The vibrational mode frequencies and decomposition on irreducible representations, as well as the degree of ion involvement in each mode, were determined. The calculations reveal an imaginary mode in the Y-point of the Brillouin zone in the high symmetry β-EuYCuTe3 phase. This finding explains the nature of structural reconstruction in EuYCuTe3 crystal as a second-order phase transition induced by soft mode condensation at the edge of the Brillouin zone. The exfoliation of a single layer is simulated theoretically. The exfoliation energy is estimated, and the dynamical properties of EuYCuTe3 single layers are studied.
Advanced Strategies for Enhancing the Biocompatibility and Antibacterial Properties of Implantable Structures
Authors: Mishchenko Oleg , Volchykhina Kristina , Maksymov Denis , Manukhina Olesia , Pogorielov Maksym , Pavlenko Mykola , Iatsunskyi Igor
Published: February 2025

This review explores the latest advancements in enhancing the biocompatibility and antibacterial properties of implantable structures, with a focus on titanium (Ti) and its alloys. Titanium implants, widely used in dental and orthopedic applications, demonstrate excellent mechanical strength and biocompatibility, yet face challenges such as peri-implantitis, a bacterial infection that can lead to implant failure. To address these issues, both passive and active surface modification strategies have been developed. Passive modifications, such as altering surface texture and chemistry, aim to prevent bacterial adhesion, while active approaches incorporate antimicrobial agents for sustained infection control. Nanotechnology has emerged as a transformative tool, enabling the creation of nanoscale materials and coatings like TiO2 and ZnO that promote osseointegration and inhibit biofilm formation. Techniques such as plasma spraying, ion implantation, and plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) show promising results in improving implant integration and durability. Despite significant progress, further research is needed to refine these technologies, optimize surface properties, and address the clinical challenges associated with implant longevity and safety. This review highlights the intersection of surface engineering, nanotechnology, and biomedical innovation, paving the way for the next generation of implantable devices.
Modified Dynamic Movement Primitive-Based Closed Ankle Reduction Technique Learning and Variable Impedance Control for a Redundant Parallel Bone-Setting Robot
Authors: Tan Zhao , Zhang Yahui , Yuan Jiahui , Song Xu , Zhang Jialong , Wen Guilin , Hu Xiaoyan , Yin Hanfeng
Published: February 2025

Traditional fracture reduction relies heavily on the surgeon’s experience, which hinders the transmission of skills. This specialization bottleneck, coupled with the high demands on physical strength, significantly limits the efficiency of daily treatments in trauma orthopedics. Currently, most fracture surgery robots focus on open or minimally invasive reduction techniques, which inherently carry the risk of iatrogenic damage due to surgical incisions or bone pin insertions. However, research in closed reduction-oriented robotic systems is remarkably limited. Addressing this gap, our study introduces a novel bone-setting robot for the closed reduction of ankle fractures designed with a redundant parallel platform. The parallel robot’s design incorporates three sliding redundancy actuators that enhance its tilt flexibility while maintaining load performance. Moreover, a singularity-free redundant kinematic solver has been developed, optimizing the robot’s operational efficacy. Building upon the demonstrations from professional closed reduction techniques, we propose the use of a multivariate Student-t process as a multi-output regression model within dynamic movement primitive for accurately learning stable reduction maneuvers. Additionally, we develop an anthropomorphic variable impedance controller based on inverse dynamics. The simulation results demonstrate convincingly that the developed ankle bone-setting robot is proficient in effectively replicating and learning the nuanced closed reduction techniques.
The Role of Quantitative Real-Time PCR in the Invasive Pulmonary Aspergillosis Diagnosis: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Trovato Laura , Calvo Maddalena , Palermo Concetta Ilenia , Scalia Guido
Published: February 2025

Invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) reports significant mortality rates among critically ill patients. A prompt microbiological diagnosis is essential to establish a coherent antifungal treatment. Despite its low sensitivity and prolonged turn-around time, culture represents the conventional diagnostic technique. Additionally, galactomannan detection may support the diagnostic process. Ultimate generation methods, such as the real-time polymerase chain reaction (Real-Time PCR), integrated the diagnostic procedure to improve the overall laboratory effectiveness, especially regarding a quantitative Aspergillus spp. DNA detection. Herein, we propose a retrospective analysis where a quantitative real-time PCR was performed on respiratory samples belonging to patients with or without probable pulmonary aspergillosis. The study enrolled 62 samples, whose PCR results were compared to culture and galactomannan indexes. Additionally, clinical and general data were collected for all the patients. The qPCR assay reported 100% sensitivity and negative predictive value, while specificity reached 59.2% and the positive predictive value was 76.1%. Moreover, IPA patients reported fungal DNA loads higher than 103 in a logarithmic scale, while non-aspergillosis episodes reported a maximum level of 103. We hypothesized a future possibility to define a specific cut-off in distinguishing colonization from infection cases, requiring further investigations and speculations about IPA patients and respiratory samples.
Ranked Mappable Criteria for Magmatic Units: Systematization of the Ossa-Morena Zone Rift-Related Alkaline Bodies
Authors: Roseiro José , Moreira Noel , de Oliveira Daniel , Silva Marcelo , Eguiluz Luis , Nogueira Pedro
Published: February 2025

The Ossa-Morena Zone (SW Iberian Massif) hosts the largest set of Cambro–Ordovician alkaline magmatic plutons related to the Palaeozoic rifting of the northern Gondwana margin so far described. An organized framework for their classification at different scales is proposed through data-driven ranks based on their distinctive petrological features relative to other rift-related magmatic rocks found throughout western Europe. The classification method aims to enhance geological mapping at different scales, regional- and continental-scale correlations, and, as such, facilitate the petrogenetic interpretation of this magmatism. The hierarchical scheme, from highest to lowest rank, is as follows: rank-1 (supersuite) assembles rocks that have distinctive characteristics from other magmatic units emplaced in the same magmatic event; rank-2 (suite) categorizes the units based on their major textural features, indicating if the body is plutonic, sub-volcanic, or a strongly deformed magmatic-derived unit; rank-3 (subsuite) clusters according to their spatial arrangement (magmatic centres) or association to larger structures (e.g., shear zones or alignments); rank-4, the fundamental mapping unit, characterizes the lithotype (alkaline granite, alkaline gabbro, syenite, albitite, etc.) by considering higher ranks (alkalinity and textural aspects); rank-5 characterizes the geometry of individual plutons (with several intrusions) or swarms; rank-6 (smallest mappable unit) corresponds to each intrusion or individual body from a swarm. Although this classification scheme is currently presented solely for the Ossa-Morena Zone, the scheme can be easily extended to incorporate other co-magmatic alkaline bodies, such as those in the NW Iberian allochthonous units or other peri-Gondwanan zones or massifs, in order to facilitate regional correlations of the rift-related magmatism.
Understanding the Role of Active Lattice Oxygen in CO Oxidation Catalyzed by Copper-Doped Mn2O3@MnO2
Authors: Zhang Hao , Meng Tan , Zhang Min , Zhang Pengyi , Sun Peizhe , Li Huinan , Yu Yangyang
Published: February 2025

Although the hopcalite catalyst, primarily composed of manganese oxide and copper oxide, has been extensively studied for carbon monoxide (CO) elimination, there remains significant potential to optimize its structure and activity. Herein, Cu-doped Mn3O2@MnO2 catalysts featuring highly exposed interfacial regions were prepared. The correlation between interfacial exposure and catalytic activity indicates that the interfacial region serves as the active site for CO catalytic oxidation. The characteristic adsorption of CO by Cu species significantly enhances the catalytic activity of the catalyst. And XPS and ICP-OES analyses reveal that Cu ions coexist in both the interlayer and lattice of δ-MnO2. Furthermore, XPS analysis was employed to quantify the average oxidation state (AOS) of Mn and the molar ratios of oxygen species, demonstrating that both surface-adsorbed oxygen and surface lattice oxygen act as reactive oxygen species in the catalytic reaction, playing a crucial role in CO oxidation. Notably, the surface reactive oxygen species influence the adsorption of CO onto Cu species, and the replenishment of these reactive species is identified as the rate-limiting step in the CO catalytic oxidation process.
Energy and Key Micronutrient Intake in Amateur Swimmers: A Pilot Study
Authors: Gonçalves Sara , Vicente Filipa , Pereira Paula
Published: February 2025

Swimming is a highly demanding sport that requires the integration of multiple physical, physiological, and psychological factors for optimal performance. Despite its popularity, most swimmers are amateur, and few studies have assessed energy and nutrient intake at this athlete level. Therefore, the aim of the present pilot study was to evaluate energy and nutrient intake and compare them with the recommended values. Methods: The participants were recruited from local teams. To determine body composition, weight, height, and skinfold measurements were taken. Food intake assessment was conducted through a 3-day food log. Results: The sample was composed of 15 individuals, where 7 were female. There were no significant differences in energy and macronutrient intake between male and female swimmers, nor between rest or workout days. Despite protein intake being within the recommendation, the estimated average intake for energy was significantly lower than the recommended values. Female swimmers also showed an inadequate intake of calcium, iron, and zinc. Conclusions: Swimmers showed an inadequate energy and carbohydrate intake for their activity level. Female athletes also reported a low intake of crucial micronutrients.
Investigation and Management of Painful Os Peroneum Syndrome: A Narrative Review of the Current Literature
Authors: Tahoun Marwan , Kafagi Abdul-Hadi , Tahoun Rana , Al Zareeni Omar Tariq , Pillai Anand , Abdelrazik Hashim , El Aloul Khaled
Published: February 2025

Painful Os Peroneum Syndrome (POPS) is a rare cause of lateral midfoot pain due to pathologies involving the os peroneum, an accessory ossicle within the peroneus longus tendon. POPS may result from fractures, tendon tears, tenosynovitis, or degenerative changes. This review evaluates outcomes of conservative and surgical management of POPS based on the current literature. A comprehensive review of published case reports, series, and relevant studies on POPS management was conducted. Clinical outcomes, radiographic findings, and complications following conservative and surgical interventions were analysed. Conservative management, including immobilisation, physiotherapy, cryotherapy, and corticosteroid injections, showed variable success, particularly in nondisplaced fractures or inflammatory causes. Surgical management demonstrated better outcomes in severe cases, including displaced fractures or tendon ruptures. Techniques such as os peroneum excision, tendon repair, tenodesis to the peroneus brevis, and tendon grafting yielded high patient satisfaction, reduced pain scores, and improved functional outcomes. Reported complications included delayed wound healing, sural neuritis, and chronic pain. Despite promising surgical results, a lack of standardised treatment protocols remains a challenge. Both conservative and surgical management of POPS can be effective, depending on injury severity and pathology. Surgical intervention appears superior for advanced cases, especially with tendon rupture or os peroneum fracture. Further research with standardised scoring systems and larger cohorts is needed to establish optimal treatment algorithms and improve clinical outcomes.
Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Diabetes: Shedding Light on a Widespread Oversight
Authors: Iheagwam Franklyn Nonso , Joseph Amarachi Joy , Adedoyin Eniola Deborah , Iheagwam Olawumi Toyin , Ejoh Samuel Akpoyowvare
Published: February 2025

Diabetes mellitus represents a complicated metabolic condition marked by ongoing hyperglycemia arising from impaired insulin secretion, inadequate insulin action, or a combination of both. Mitochondrial dysfunction has emerged as a significant contributor to the aetiology of diabetes, affecting various metabolic processes critical for glucose homeostasis. This review aims to elucidate the complex link between mitochondrial dysfunction and diabetes, covering the spectrum of diabetes types, the role of mitochondria in insulin resistance, highlighting pathophysiological mechanisms, mitochondrial DNA damage, and altered mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics. Additionally, it discusses the clinical implications and complications of mitochondrial dysfunction in diabetes and its complications, diagnostic approaches for assessing mitochondrial function in diabetics, therapeutic strategies, future directions, and research opportunities.
Differential Effects by Caring and Positive Empathy on Depression and Anxiety: Gender Differences in a Sample of Spanish University Students
Authors: Gomez-Baya Diego , Manrique-Millones Denisse , Garcia Arlen J. , Lopez-Bermudez Esther
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: The literature to date has shown some contradictory findings regarding the associations between empathy and mental health. Thus, the caring component of the Positive Youth Development model has been related to more mental health symptoms, while positive empathy seems to have a positive impact on psychological adjustment. The present study aimed to analyze the associations between caring and positive empathy with youth depression and anxiety, as well as examine gender differences. (2) Methods: A cross-sectional study was carried out by administering an online self-report to a sample composed of 370 university students (67.2% women), aged 18–29 (M = 21.29, SD = 3.61), enrolled across 10 universities in the Spanish region of Andalusia; (3) Results: Women reported higher levels of the caring dimension of PYD, more positive empathy, but more symptoms of depression and anxiety. Mediational analyses to explain the gender differences in mental health concluded that (a) women reported more depression and anxiety partly due to their higher scores in caring, and (b) despite women had more positive empathy than men, this mechanism was only protective against anxiety in the subsample of men; (4) Conclusions: The promotion of mental health in the university context should address gender differences and the role of caring and positive empathy.
Multi-Harmonic Nonlinear Ultrasonic Fusion with Deep Learning for Subtle Parameter Identification of Micro-Crack Groups
Authors: Lin Qi , Bi Xiaoyang , Ding Xiangyan , Yang Bo , Liu Bingxi , Yang Xiao , Xue Jie , Deng Mingxi , Hu Ning
Published: February 2025

Fatigue crack defects in metallic materials significantly reduce the remaining useful life (RUL) of parts. However, much of the existing research has focused on identifying single-millimeter-scale cracks using individual nonlinear ultrasonic responses. The identification of subtle parameters from complex ultrasonic responses of micro-crack groups remains a significant challenge in the field of nondestructive testing. We propose a novel multi-harmonic nonlinear response fusion identification method integrated with a deep learning (DL) model to identify the subtle parameters of micro-crack groups. First, we trained a one-dimensional convolutional neural network (1D CNN) with various time-domain signals obtained from finite element method (FEM) models and analyzed the sensitivity of different harmonic nonlinear responses to various subtle parameters of micro-crack groups. Then, high harmonics were fused to perform a decoupled identification of multiple subtle parameters. We enhanced the Dempster–Shafer (DS) evidence theory used in decision fusion by accounting for different sensitivities, achieving an identification accuracy of 93.73%. Building on this, we assigned sensor weights based on our proposed new conflict measurement method and further conducted decision fusion on the decision results from multiple ultrasonic sensors. Our proposed method achieves an identification accuracy of 95.68%.
Censoring Sensitivity Analysis for Benchmarking Survival Machine Learning Methods
Authors: Báskay János , Mezei Tamás , Banczerowski Péter , Horváth Anna , Joó Tamás , Pollner Péter
Published: February 2025

(1) Background: Survival analysis models in clinical research must effectively handle censored data, where complete survival times are unknown for some subjects. While established methodologies exist for validating standard machine learning models, current benchmarking approaches rarely assess model robustness under varying censoring conditions. This limitation creates uncertainty about model reliability in real-world applications where censoring patterns may differ from training data. We address this gap by introducing a systematic benchmarking methodology focused on censoring sensitivity. (2) Methods: We developed a benchmarking framework that assesses survival models through controlled modification of censoring conditions. Five models were evaluated: Cox proportional hazards, survival tree, random survival forest, gradient-boosted survival analysis, and mixture density networks. The framework systematically reduced observation periods and increased censoring rates while measuring performance through multiple metrics following Bayesian hyperparameter optimization. (3) Results: Model performance showed greater sensitivity to increased censoring rates than to reduced observation periods. Non-linear models, especially mixture density networks, exhibited higher vulnerability to data quality degradation. Statistical comparisons became increasingly challenging with higher censoring rates due to widened confidence intervals. (4) Conclusions: Our methodology provides a new standard for evaluating survival analysis models, revealing the critical impact of censoring on model performance. These findings offer practical guidance for model selection and development in clinical applications, emphasizing the importance of robust censoring handling strategies.
Redefining Coworking for Sustainable Communities: Insights from Small Cities Amid COVID-19
Authors: Pernice Gabriella Francesca Amalia , Orso Valeria , Gamberini Luciano
Published: February 2025

The global rise of coworking spaces (CSs) underscores their potential to foster sustainable urban development by promoting collaboration, community engagement, and strengthening local communities. However, little is known about how CSs in smaller urban or suburban settings are managed. The COVID-19 pandemic added uncertainty to this sector, placing significant strain on these spaces and testing their resilience. This study explored how managers of CSs in small cities organize and sustain their operations, focusing on the challenges posed by the pandemic. We employed a qualitative approach, conducting eleven in-depth semi-structured interviews with managers of small city CSs, followed by nine additional interviews four months later to capture the evolving conditions. Findings show that management strategies crucially shape the sustainability of these spaces: those emphasizing open, collaborative layouts proved more vulnerable to lockdown measures, whereas those offering private offices generally weathered the crisis more effectively—albeit sometimes at the expense of a collaborative culture and community integration. These insights highlight the importance of adaptive management practices that balance economic viability with the core principles of collaboration and community building. By addressing the distinct challenges of smaller urban and suburban contexts, CS managers can strengthen their spaces’ resilience and enhance both social and economic sustainability in their local communities.
A DPSIR-Bayesian Network Approach for Tourism Ecological Security Early Warning: A Case Study of Sichuan Province, China
Authors: Huang Xin , Li Ting , Li Li , Liu Qiurong , Liu Qing
Published: February 2025

As a subset of the human–environment system, the tourism ecosystem focuses on the complex dynamics and interactions between tourism activities and the natural environment. Among these, tourism ecological security (TES) is one of the core issues in the study of tourism ecosystems, aiming to balance economic development and ecological environment protection. Currently, the risk early warning of TES has not received widespread attention, and there is an urgent need for a tourism ecological safety risk early warning system to achieve TES monitoring, risk assessment, and decision support. Therefore, this study established a comprehensive TES evaluation system, systematically analyzed the evolution of TES in Sichuan Province from 2010 to 2022, and used the geographical detector to reveal the influencing factors and driving mechanisms of TES. Based on these achievements, an early risk warning system for TES was established based on the Bayesian network model, simulating the response of TES under single-variable and multi-variable scenarios. The research results reveal that TES changes with environmental changes, resource utilization and consumption, and the development of the tourism industry, and there are differences in the driving factors of TES under different conditions. There is a synergistic effect between the influencing factors of TES, and there is a threshold effect in the regulation of tourism ecological safety, revealing the efficiency and limitations of different regulatory strategies. The early risk warning model for TES based on the Bayesian network has high prediction accuracy and can provide effective support for the management and regulatory policies of TES.
Rattlesnake Roundup: Point-of-Care Thrombelastographic Methods Define the Molecular Impacts on Coagulation of Crotalus Venom Toxins In Vitro and In Vivo
Authors: Nielsen Vance G.
Published: February 2025

A malalignment between rattlesnake-envenomed patients’ degree of compromised coagulation and the data generated by standard hematological determinations generated with blood samples anticoagulated with calcium (Ca) chelating agents is almost certain. Many rattlesnake venom toxins are Ca-independent toxins that likely continue to damage plasmatic and cellular components of coagulation in blood samples (anticoagulated with Ca chelation) during transportation from the emergency department to the clinical laboratory. The most straightforward approach to abrogate this patient–laboratory malalignment is to reduce “needle to activation time”—the time from blood collection to commencement of laboratory analysis—with utilization of point-of-care (POC) technology such as thrombelastography. The workflow and history of standard and POC approaches to hematological assessment is reviewed. Further, using a preclinical model of envenomation with four different rattlesnake venoms, the remarkably diverse damage to coagulation revealed with POC thrombelastography is presented. It is anticipated that future investigation and potential changes in clinical monitoring practices with POC methods of hematological assessment will improve the management of envenomed patients and assist in precision care.
Urban Mobility Choices of University Students: Insights into Satisfaction Levels and Preferences in the Thessaloniki Metropolitan Area
Authors: Bouhouras Efstathios , Dimos Thomas , Mastoras Dimitrios , Basbas Socrates
Published: February 2025

Assessing people’s satisfaction with diverse modes of transportation is complex yet crucial. This paper delves into the pivotal outcomes derived from analyzing survey data. The surveys, conducted at Aristotle University of Thessaloniki (AUTH), gauged student satisfaction with the available transport options in the Thessaloniki Metropolitan Area during 2021 and 2022, thus providing insights into trends in satisfaction levels, allowing for a deeper understanding of evolving mobility preferences. Through a comparative analysis of the data, we discerned attributes influencing participants’ transportation choices. Our research contributes to the literature by applying a standardized methodology using an algorithm developed by the European Commission; the satisfaction levels among university students for private car and public transport in those years were determined. Notably, the findings underscore that, despite a marginally higher usage of public transport, university students exhibit a greater satisfaction level with private car transportation. This implies a nuanced preference for private car usage among students, as opposed to a mere emphasis on the higher popularity of public transport within this demographic. The findings aim to provide transport operators and policymakers with valuable information in terms of ways to enhance sustainable urban mobility and improve public transport services.
Application of 12C6 Heavy Ion-Irradiated BHK-21 Cells in Production of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Vaccine
Authors: Song Xiangdong , Tao Shiyu , An Fanglan , Li Xiaoming , Yang Jingcai , Cui Yan , Liu Xuerong
Published: February 2025

FMD poses a significant threat to animal husbandry and public health security. This study aims to investigate an innovative method for producing FMD vaccines. Wild-type BHK-21 cells were subjected to heavy ion irradiation. Following the optimization of irradiation parameters, the mutant cell line BHK-7 was selected using the limited dilution method. The concentration of FMDV 146S in the BHK-7 cells was markedly elevated, significantly enhancing FMDV replication. The suspension culture and domestication experiments demonstrated that BHK-7 exhibited characteristics like those of the control BHK-21 cells, thereby improving production efficiency and reducing costs. The metabolic analysis of the BHK-7 suspension cultures indicated that glutamine (GLN) may play a crucial role in FMDV replication, with the addition of an appropriate amount of GLN enhancing viral replication levels. Ten successive generations of BHK-7 cells showed stability in FMDV replication post-domestication, indicating good genetic stability. In this study, we obtained a mutant somatic cell line, BHK-7, which promotes FMDV replication through heavy ion irradiation technology. Through suspension culture domestication and metabolic analysis, this study provides a novel approach and concept for FMD vaccine production, as well as a reference for the development of other vaccine cell lines.
Hybrid Electric Vehicles as a Strategy for Reducing Fuel Consumption and Emissions in Latin America
Authors: Castillo Juan C. , Uribe Andrés F. , Tibaquirá Juan E. , Giraldo Michael , Idárraga Manuela
Published: February 2025

The vehicle fleets in Latin America are increasingly incorporating hybrid electric vehicles due to the economic and non-economic incentives provided by governments aiming to reduce energy consumption and emissions in the transportation sector. However, the impacts of implementing hybrid vehicles remain uncertain, especially in Latin American, which poses a risk to the achievement of environmental objectives in developing countries. The aim of this study is to evaluate the benefits of incorporating hybrid vehicles to replace internal combustion vehicles, considering the improvement in the level of emission standards. This study uses data reported by Colombian vehicle importers during the homologation process in Colombia and the number of vehicles registered in the country between 2010 and 2022. The Gompertz model and logistic growth curves are used to project the total number of vehicles, taking into account the level of hybridization and including conventional natural gas and electric vehicles. In this way, tailpipe emissions and energy efficiency up to 2040 are also projected for different hybrid vehicle penetration scenarios. Results show that the scenario in which the share of hybrid vehicles remains stable (Scenario 1) shows a slight increase in energy consumption compared to the baseline scenario, about 1.72% in 2035 and 2.87% in 2040. The scenario where the share of MHEVs, HEVs, and PHEVs reaches approximately 50% of the vehicle fleet in 2040 (Scenario 2) shows a reduction in energy consumption of 24.64% in 2035 and 33.81% in 2040. Finally, the scenario that accelerates the growth of HEVs and PHEVs while keeping MHEVs at the same level of participation from 2025 (Scenario 3) does not differ from Scenario 2. Results show that the introduction of full hybrids and plug-in hybrid vehicles improve fleet fuel consumption and emissions. Additionally, when the adoption rates of these technologies are relatively low, the benefits may be questionable, but when the market share of hybrid vehicles is high, energy consumption and emissions are significantly reduced. Nevertheless, this study also shows that Mild Hybrid Electric Vehicles (MHEVs) do not provide a significant improvement in terms of fuel consumption and emissions.
Variation in prescription duration for long term conditions: a cohort study in English NHS primary care using OpenPrescribing
Authors: MacKenna Brian , Brown Andrew D , Croker Richard , Walker Alex J , Goldacre Ben , Tsiachristas Apostolos , Evans David , Inglesby Peter , Bacon Sebastian CJ. , Curtis Helen J
Published: February 2025

Background: Many patients receive routine medications for long-term conditions (LTCs). Doctors typically issue repeat prescriptions in one to three month durations, but England currently has no national guidance on the optimal duration. Aim: Describe current prescription durations for common LTCs in England, explore and visualise geographical variation, and identify practice factors associated with shorter prescribing duration to inform policy making. Design and Setting A retrospective cohort study of English GP prescribing data December 2018-November 2019 Methods: We calculated the duration of prescriptions for common LTCs in England including the medications ramipril, atorvastatin, simvastatin, levothyroxine and amlodipine . We assessed the level of variation between regional clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) and determined practice factors associated with different durations. Results: Of the common medications included, 28-day (one-monthly) prescriptions accounted for 48.5% (2.5 billion) tablets/capsules issued, whilst 43.6% were issued for 56 days (two monthly). There was very wide regional variation in the proportion of 28-day prescriptions (7.2% to 95.0%). Practice dispensing status was the most likely predictor of prescription duration. The proportion of patients with LTCs and the electronic health record software used by a practice were also associated with prescription duration. Conclusions: One month prescription durations are common for patients taking medicines routinely for long term conditions, particularly in dispensing practices. Electronic health record configurations offer an opportunity to implement and evaluate new policies on repeat prescription duration in England.
ANALYSIS OF MEASURES TO REDUCE HEAT LOSSES IN WATER HEATING NETWORKS
Authors: Goluzova Irina , Tkacheva Ulyana
Published: February 2025

The paper considers the state of heating networks in the Russian Federation. The main problems of poor-quality heat energy transport have been identified, as well as the main causes of high heat losses and coolant: exceeding the service life of main and distribution networks, unsatisfactory condition of thermal insulation, violation of temperature schedules for heat release, as well as inadequate maintenance of networks and channels. The main methods of calculating heat losses in water heating networks are considered: determination of standard heat losses and calculation of heat losses through thermal insulation of pipelines, and the disadvantages of these calculation methods are revealed. Special attention is paid to the types of laying of heating networks and factors affecting the properties of thermal insulation materials, such as: complete or partial humidification during operation, destruction of the thermal insulation layer, as well as deformation of materials under the influence of external factors. An analysis was carried out in the work.