bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Whole-Body Cryotherapy on Pain, Sleep Quality, Functional Status, and Quality of Life in Multiple Sclerosis: A Comparative Study with Follow-Up
Authors: Zielińska-Nowak Ewa , Lipert Anna , Kikowski Łukasz , Miller Elżbieta
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Whole-body cryotherapy (WBC) is widely recognized for its analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects. Despite growing interest in its therapeutic potential, the impact of WBC on functional performance, pain perception, sleep quality, and quality of life among individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) remains underexplored. This study aimed to assess the effects of a 10-session WBC protocol on functional and psychological parameters in patients with MS and compare them with individuals without neurological disorders. Methods: A total of 73 participants divided into two groups, non-neurological individuals (non-MS, n = 43) and patients with MS (MS, n = 30), underwent 10 WBC sessions (−120 °C to −130 °C) over 2 weeks. Assessments included the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), 30-Second Chair Stand Test (30CST), Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, with the WHOQOL-BREF conducted pre-treatment, post-treatment, and at a 10-day follow-up. Results: In the MS group, significant improvements were observed post-treatment in the NRS, 30CST, WHOQOL-1, and PSQI. However, only the CST and WHOQOL-3 maintained improvements during follow-up. In the non-MS group, statistically significant improvements were observed post-treatment across most parameters, except for the NRS and WHOQOL-3, with most effects diminishing by the follow-up. No deterioration in any assessed parameters was observed in either group. Conclusions: WBC demonstrates potential benefits for managing MS symptoms, particularly pain and sleep quality, with no observed deterioration in parameters and some effects emerging only during follow-ups, underscoring its safety and the need for further research on long-term outcomes.
Cryptocurrency Investments: The Role of Advisory Sources, Investor Confidence, and Risk Perception in Shaping Behaviors and Intentions
Authors: Qi Jia , Zhang Yu , Ouyang Congrong
Published: January 2025

The rapid growth and increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies have reshaped the investment landscape, presenting unique opportunities and challenges for investors. This study examines how advisory information sources influence cryptocurrency investment behaviors and intentions among U.S. investors. Using data from the 2021 National Financial Capability Study, it explores how reliance on financial professionals, media, and social networks shapes investment decisions. The motivation for this research lies in the need to understand the divergent roles of these sources in an era where traditional and emerging financial advice coexist. Findings reveal that reliance on financial advisors correlates with reduced cryptocurrency investment and future investment intentions, reflecting advisors’ cautious stance toward volatile assets. Conversely, reliance on media and social networks significantly increases both current investments and future intentions. The findings also highlight that investor confidence is positively associated with the likelihood and intentions to invest in cryptocurrency. Conversely, heightened risk perceptions associated with cryptocurrency reduce both the likelihood and intentions to invest. The study calls for financial professionals to enhance client education on cryptocurrency risks and for policymakers to strengthen regulations, ensuring accurate information dissemination through media and social networks. By providing a nuanced understanding of advisory influence and investors’ characteristics, this research offers valuable insights for financial professionals, policymakers, and investors navigating the complexities of cryptocurrency investments.
Development Trajectories of Two Industrial Regions in the EU Due to Different Transformation Paths—The Silesian Voivodeship in Poland and North Rhine–Westphalia in Germany
Authors: Kantor-Pietraga Iwona , Koczar-Sikora Stefania
Published: January 2025

This article compares the socio-economic development of the two industrial EU regions, the Silesian Voivodeship Poland and the Düsseldorf District in North Rhine–Westphalia, Germany, in the last 20 years of the 21st century. The Ninth Cohesion Report, the EU Regional Competitiveness Index 2.0, and the two concepts of the regional development trap and just transition in the EU were used. It investigated whether the applied EU regional policy, cohesion policy, had the expected effect of strengthening sustainable growth in the regions. This article aims to compare development trajectories, identify development traps and barriers, consider the just transition in the analyzed regions, and provide recommendations for regional policy. Those heavily industrialized regions must respond to the demographic challenges of labor shortages and an aging population. In the case of the Silesia region, the indicated course of action includes labor activation of women and migration management. For both regions, improving productivity is the key. The vital economic challenges include: for the Silesian Voivodeship—strengthening innovation; for the Düsseldorf region—maintaining innovation momentum and increasing resilience. Developing skills that meet industries’ needs is essential. Regarding social cohesion, the Silesia region should focus on equality measures. On the other hand, the Düsseldorf region should strengthen social protection against poverty.
The Impact of Street-Edge Scales on Everyday Activities in Wuhan’s Urban Village Streets
Authors: Xiong Jie , Simpson James , Thwaites Kevin , He Yichao
Published: January 2025

Despite extensive research on what draws people to urban streets, most existing insights originate from Western contexts, offering limited perspectives from wider urban contexts. This study addresses this gap by examining everyday street activities in Chinese urban villages, focusing specifically on how two spatial scales, the entire street edge and territorial segments, influence necessary, optional, and social engagements. Drawing on video recordings and walk-by observations in two urban villages in Wuhan, China, the research systematically measured the type and duration of activities across 110 territorially defined segments. The findings reveal that territorial segments, i.e., smaller-scale personalised subdivisions at a micro-scale often shaped by bottom–up adaptations, exert a significantly stronger influence upon how people use and linger in street space rather than entire street edges at a macro-scale, which shows only limited impact. This underscores the importance of fine-grained socio-spatial design and local ownership in fostering vibrant people-centred streets. By demonstrating the decisive role of micro-scale features, which span storefront layouts, semi-public alcoves, and adaptive uses, these results carry important implications for urban practitioners seeking to balance top–down redevelopment with bottom–up initiatives. Ultimately, the study enriches the global discourse on street-edge understanding and design, emphasising that territorial segments can be powerful catalysts for promoting activity and community life in dense urban contexts.
Rural Transformation in the Philippines and the Role of Institutions, Policies, and Investments
Authors: Custodio Karen Q. , Sombilla Mercedita A.
Published: January 2025

This paper examines the status and rural transformation trends in the Philippines. Using secondary data covering 1988 to 2023, the levels of rural transformation across the country’s sixteen regions were analyzed based on three key indicators: the share of gross value added in high-value agriculture to the total GDP of agriculture, forestry and fishery, share of off-farm employment to the total rural labor force, and agricultural labor productivity. Through a panel regression analysis, this study also determined how selected institutional reforms, policies, and investments (IPIs) influenced the rural transformation that happened in the regions. The findings reveal that rural transformation in the Philippines has been generally slow because of the uneven progress across its local regions, with only three out of the sixteen regions reaching a high level of rural transformation from 1988 to 2023 and two regions remaining at low level of transformation, while the rest are still moving from a slow to moderate level of transformation. This study highlights the critical role of IPIs in driving rural transformation, demonstrating that their effects vary depending on the transformation stage of each region. These results underscore the need to properly identify, logically sequence, and efficiently integrate IPI interventions to address the transformation challenges effectively. Beyond its Philippine context, this study provides insights applicable to other developing countries facing similar rural transformation challenges, offering a replicable methodology for analyzing the transformation and guiding context-specific strategies.
Integrating Gender Perspectives in Participation to Guide Changes in Urban Planning in Serbia
Authors: Čolić Marković Nataša , Danilović Hristić Nataša
Published: January 2025

Participation is an essential instrument for the expression of diverse knowledge and interests in urban planning. It ultimately influences outcomes in the built environment, fostering inclusive, safe, and accessible spaces and environments. However, urban planning is often viewed, by the public and practitioners alike, as an expert-driven, administrative, and semi-closed system, focusing on the provision of resources that are fit for all, seldom targeting the participation of gender expertise in decision-making. Drawing on empirical qualitative research conducted with planning practitioners in Belgrade in 2023 within the UN Women project “Safety of Women and Girls in Public Spaces”, this paper investigates if and how gender perspectives are integrated into urban planning policy and practice in Serbia, and the role of knowledge creation and participation in informing planning about diverse needs at the local level. The research draws on practical insights from practitioners in the fields of urban and spatial planning, traffic, and urban safety. The findings reveal how limitations to modifying the national legislative framework in terms of gender integration could be overcome at the level of planning policy and practice. The importance of including the participation of gender expertise alongside achieving gender parity in knowledge creation is highlighted.
Impact of Urban Expansion on School Quality in Compulsory Education: A Spatio-Temporal Study of Dalian, China
Authors: Zhang Zhenchao , Luan Weixin , Tian Chuang , Su Min
Published: January 2025

With rapid urbanization, improving school quality in compulsory education is critical for optimal educational resource allocation. This study integrates a random forest machine learning model, GIS spatial analysis, and a spatial econometric model to examine the spatiotemporal differentiation of school quality in Dalian, China, in 2016 and 2020, as well as its relationships with the construction land development cycle, population density, and housing prices. The findings reveal a core–periphery structure, with overall school quality on the rise and basic facility configuration exerting a stronger impact than teacher strength. Among internal resources, per capita sports venue area (PCSFA) and per capita teaching equipment value (PCTRE) contribute most significantly to school quality, while high-quality clusters in traditional educational hubs, university-covered areas, and transitional zones spur improvements in surrounding schools. The population density, housing prices, and the construction land development cycle all positively correlate with school quality, highlighting the need for coordinated action among urban planners, education authorities, and housing regulators to ensure that land development, housing affordability, and school facility investments advance equitable access to quality education. These results provide a novel perspective on compulsory education quality assessment and offer a valuable foundation for guiding education policies and urban development strategies.
Wetting Transition from Wenzel to Cassie States: Thermodynamic Analysis
Authors: Sun Qiang , Chen Yan-Nan , Liu Yu-Zhen
Published: January 2025

Superhydrophobicity is closely linked to the chemical composition and geometric characteristics of surface roughness. Building on our structural studies on water and air–water interfaces, this work aims to elucidate the mechanism underlying the wetting transition from the Wenzel to the Cassie state on a hydrophobic surface. In the Wenzel state, the grooves are filled with water, meaning that the surface roughness becomes embedded in the liquid. To evaluate the effects of surface roughness on water structure, a wetting parameter (WRoughness) is proposed, which is closely related to the geometric characteristics of roughness, such as pillar size, width, and height. During the wetting transition from Wenzel to Cassie states, the critical wetting parameter (WRoughness,c) may be expected, which corresponds to the critical pillar size (ac), width (wc), and height (hc). The Cassie state is expected when the WRoughness is less than WRoughness,c (ac), decreasing width (hc). Additionally, molecular dynamic (MD) simulations are conducted to demonstrate the effects of surface roughness on superhydrophobicity.
XPS Depth Profiling of Surface Restructuring Responsible for Hydrogen Evolution Reaction Activity of Nickel Sulfides in Alkaline Electrolyte
Authors: Li Jiangtian , Chu Deryn , Poland Connor , Smith Cooper , Nagelli Enoch A. , Jaffett Victor
Published: January 2025

Electrochemical water splitting provides a sustainable method for hydrogen production. However, the primary challenge for electrochemical hydrogen generation is the high cost and limited availability of platinum-based noble-metal catalysts. Transition-metal chalcogenides have been identified as low-cost and efficient electrocatalysts to promote the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) in alkaline electrolytes. Nonetheless, the identification of active sites and the underlying catalytic mechanism remain elusive. In this study, phosphorus-doped nickel sulfide has been successfully synthesized, demonstrating enhanced activity for alkaline HER. Investigating surface chemistry through X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), depth profiling revealed that surface restructuring occurs during the HER process. The presence of phosphorus significantly influences this transformation, promoting the formation of a novel active Ni-O layer. This Ni-O layer is responsible for enhanced catalytic activity by upshifting the d-band center and increasing the density of states near the Fermi level, along with expanding the electrochemical surface area. This study reveals that the surface restructuring of transition-metal sulfides is highly tied to the electronic structure of the parent catalysts. Gaining a comprehensive understanding of this surface restructuring is essential for predicting and exploring more efficient non-precious transition-metal sulfide electrocatalysts.
The Dissolution Behavior of Pyrite and Chalcopyrite in Their Mixture During Low-Temperature Pressure Oxidation: A Kinetic Analysis
Authors: Karimov Kirill , Tretiak Maksim , Rogozhnikov Denis
Published: January 2025

The research presented in this paper focused on the pressure leaching of pyrite and chalcopyrite in their mixture at a low temperature (100 ± 2 °C). The mathematical models of chalcopyrite and pyrite dissolution in their mixture are obtained. According to kinetic analyses, the oxidation process of chalcopyrite and pyrite is limited by intra-diffusion limitations. An elemental sulfur film passivates the surface of chalcopyrite and pyrite particles according to the SEM and EDX mappings. The data show that the oxidation mechanism of chalcopyrite and pyrite in their mixture has changed. The activation energy values of chalcopyrite and pyrite have increased from 51.2 to 59.0 kJ/mol, respectively. The oxidation degree of pyrite in its mixture with chalcopyrite increased significantly from 54.5 to 80.3% within 0–230 min. Copper and iron ions during oxidation were not associated with an increase in the dissolution degree of pyrite with the addition of chalcopyrite. The positive effect of pyrite in its mixture with chalcopyrite on its oxidation degree can be explained by the formation of an electrochemical bond between the minerals. Microphotographs and EDX mapping confirm that the positive effect of the chalcopyrite additive is correlated with a decrease in the formation of elemental sulfur on the pyrite surface. With no formation of conglomerates, the mineral’s sulfur content becomes more uniform, confirming the sulfides’ interaction with each other.
Enhanced Hardness and Tribological Properties of Copper-Based Steel Backing Self-Lubricating Materials with Y2O3 Micro-Doping
Authors: Li Mingmao , Yin Ningkang , Jei Zhaokui , Liu Zhiying , Zhang Jinhan , Zeng Hao , Huang Hao , Liu Jingxuan
Published: January 2025

The copper-based steel backing material is prepared using a combination of mechanical alloying and secondary sintering methods. The effect of Y2O3 content on the microstructure, hardness, and tribological properties of the copper-based self-lubricating layer is investigated. The results demonstrate that the addition of Y2O3 enhances the strength of the copper-based self-lubricating layer. Graphite and Y2O3 act synergistically to form a three-dimensional supporting framework, thereby boosting the overall strength of the copper-based composite material and increasing its Brinell hardness by 27%. Additionally, the incorporation of Y2O3 effectively improves the tribological properties of the composite material, significantly reducing wear during the friction process and decreasing the wear rate by 77%. Under the experimental conditions, the optimal Y2O3 content is determined to be 1 wt%.
Comparison of the Performance Parameters of BioHPP® and Biocetal® Used in the Production of Prosthetic Restorations in Dentistry—Part I: Mechanical Tests: An In Vitro Study
Authors: Kowalski Robert , Frąckiewicz Wojciech , Kwiatkowska Magdalena , Światłowska-Bajzert Małgorzata , Sobolewska Ewa
Published: January 2025

The aim of these in vitro studies was to determine and compare the mechanical and tribological performance of two commercially available thermoplastic materials, namely BioHPP and Biocetal, used in dental prosthetics. In order to perform the comparative tests of both materials, the dog-bone shaped samples were formed by an injection molding process as in standard polymer materials research, wherein Biocetal samples constituted the research group, and BioHPP samples served as a control group. In the presented studies, their mechanical parameters were reported and analyzed: namely, Shore’s hardness, unnotched impact strength, tensile strength, flexural strength, as well as abrasive wear resistance, obtained within appropriate tribological and mechanical tests. The Shapiro–Wilk test, Q–Q plot analysis, Grubbs test and Student’s t-test (p < 0.05) were used to statistically evaluate the results. The experimental results revealed that BioHPP material is characterized by higher hardness, impact strength, bending strength, and also lower “wet” abrasion wear if compared to Biocetal performance. However, it is subject to higher abrasive wear under “dry” conditions and reveals higher stiffness as well as lower ability to deform, which could affect a patient’s comfort during application. BioHPP, despite being a high-performance polymer material, also has some drawbacks that may affect the poorer long-term use of dentures in people producing less saliva.
Slip Risk on Surfaces Made with 3D Printing Technology
Authors: Wieczorek Bartosz , Gierz Łukasz , Warguła Łukasz , Kinal Grzegorz , Kostov Boris , Waluś Konrd Jan
Published: January 2025

Slip risk on surfaces used by humans or active in mechanisms is studied to mitigate its effects or harness its beneficial outcomes. This article presents pioneering research on the risk of surfaces created using 3D printing technology. The study examines three materials (Polylactic Acid, PLA; Polyethylene Terephthalate Glycol, PET-G; and Thermoplastic Polyurethane, TPU), considering three print head movement directions relative to the British Portable Skid Resistance Tester (BSRT) measurement direction. In addition, surface roughness tests were performed. Dry tests showed that the structure created by the printing direction perpendicular to the movement direction is the safest in terms of slip risk. The SRVs of the measured samples on a qualitative scale were classified on this scale as materials with low or extremely low slip risk (ranging from 55 to 90 SRV dry and 35 to 60 SRV wet). Referring to the influence of the type of material on the SRV, it was found that the safest material in terms of reducing the risk of slipping in dry conditions is TPU and, in wet conditions, PLA. During wet tests, the best properties that reduce the risk of slippage in most cases are shown by the printing direction on a horizontal plane at an angle of 45° to the direction of movement. Statistical analysis showed that the printing direction and roughness do not have a statistically significant effect on the SRV, but the type of material and the type of method (dry and wet) and their interaction have a significant effect.
Non-Invasive Raman and XRF Study of Mīnā’ī Decoration, the First Sophisticated Painted Enamels
Authors: Colomban Philippe , Simsek Franci Gulsu , Ngo Anh-Tu , Gallet Xavier
Published: January 2025

Mīnā’ī wares, crafted during the 12th–13th centuries, represent some of the earliest examples of sophisticated painted enamel decoration by potters. Due to the thinness of these enamel layers, their detailed characterization remains challenging, even with the use of advanced techniques, such as Proton-Induced X-ray Emission (PIXE) analysis and Rutherford Backscattering Spectrometry (RBS). This study provides the first combined non-invasive analysis, using X-ray fluorescence (XRF) and Raman spectroscopy, of five shards attributed to mīnā’ī wares. For comparison, two İznik shards from the 17th century, which feature similarly styled but thicker enamel decorations, were also analyzed. Interestingly, the mīnā’ī paste was found to contain lead and tin, suggesting the use of a lead-rich frit in its composition. This finding was confirmed through micro-destructive analysis, using Scanning Electron Microscopy with Energy Dispersive Spectroscopy (SEM–EDS). Elements, such as rubidium (Rb), strontium (Sr), yttrium (Y), and zirconium (Zr), produced significant XRF signals and effectively distinguished mīnā’ī wares from İznik wares. A uniform tin-rich glaze, measuring 300–500 µm in thickness, was used as a base layer for the much thinner painted mīnā’ī enamels. The colored areas (blue, turquoise, red, green, black, white, eggplant) revealed the presence of various coloring agents and phases, such as spinels, chromite, and ions like Cu2+ and Co2+, as well as opacifiers like cassiterite and lead–calcium/potassium arsenates. Two distinct cobalt sources were identified: one associated with arsenic and the other with manganese and nickel. These cobalt sources are comparable to those used in İznik pottery. For the first time, boron was detected in the blue enamel of mīnā’ī wares.
Antiproliferative Effect of Methanolic Extract of Vernonia greggii (Asteraceae) on Human Tumoral HeLa Cells Nanoencapsulated into PLGA-Nanoparticles
Authors: Alvarez-Sandoval Jissell , Guillen Melendez Gloria A. , Pérez-Hernández Raymundo A. , Elizondo-Luevano Joel H. , Castro-Ríos Rocío , Kačániová Miroslava , Montes de Oca-Saucedo Carlos R. , Soto-Domínguez Adolfo , Chávez-Montes Abelardo
Published: January 2025

Vernonia greggii belongs to the Asteraceae family, and some members of this family have been reported to possess anticancer properties. This study evaluated the antiproliferative effect of V. greggii methanol extract (ME), both in its free form and encapsulated into poly(lactic-co-glycolide) (PLGA) nanoparticles (NPs), on human cervical cancer cells (HeLa) and human epidermal keratinocytes (HaCaT). The extract was subsequently sub-fractionated into n-hexane (F-He), methanol (F-Me), and distilled water (F-Ac) fractions, and their antiproliferative effects were assessed. Time-dependent toxicity on HeLa cells was observed for the free-form fractions, with the F-Me fraction showing the highest efficacy compared to the others. Additionally, an NP formulation based on PLGA and F-Me (NPs F-Me) was developed, achieving 64.21% encapsulation efficiency and 11.38% drug loading. The NPs had an average size of 146.9 nm, a polydispersity index (PDI) of 0.103, and a ζ-potential of 23.3 mV. NPs F-Me were tested on HeLa and HaCaT cells, with toxicity observed at concentrations of 300 and 500 μg/mL, affecting tumor cell morphology. Furthermore, the hemolytic activity of F-Me and NPs F-Me was evaluated. The major bioactive compounds in the F-Me fraction were identified using Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS). These findings suggest that the F-Me fraction of V. greggii exerts an antineoplastic effect both in its free form and when encapsulated in nanoparticles.
Exploring Dominating Functions and Their Complexity in Subclasses of Weighted Chordal Graphs and Bipartite Graphs
Authors: Lee Chuan-Min
Published: January 2025

Domination problems are fundamental problems in graph theory with diverse applications in optimization, network design, and computational complexity. This paper investigates {k}-domination, k-tuple domination, and their total domination variants in weighted strongly chordal graphs and chordal bipartite graphs. Specifically, the {k}-domination problem in weighted strongly chordal graphs and the total {k}-domination problem in weighted chordal bipartite graphs are shown to be solvable in O(n+m) time. For weighted proper interval graphs and convex bipartite graphs, we solve the k-tuple domination and total k-tuple domination problems in O(n2.371552log2(n)log(n/δ)), where δ is the desired accuracy. Furthermore, for weighted unit interval graphs, the k-tuple domination problem achieves a significant complexity improvement, reduced from O(nk+2) to O(n2.371552log2(n)log(n/δ)). These results are achieved through a combination of linear and integer programming techniques, complemented by totally balanced matrices, totally unimodular matrices, and graph-specific matrix representations such as neighborhood and closed neighborhood matrices.
Diffeomorphism Invariant Minimization of Functionals with Nonuniform Coercivity
Authors: Degiovanni Marco , Marzocchi Marco
Published: January 2025

We consider the minimization of a functional of the calculus of variations, under assumptions that are diffeomorphism invariant. In particular, a nonuniform coercivity condition needs to be considered. We show that the direct methods of the calculus of variations can be applied in a generalized Sobolev space, which is in turn diffeomorphism invariant. Under a suitable (invariant) assumption, the minima in this larger space belong to a usual Sobolev space and are bounded.
An Oral Health Promotion Model Implemented in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County
Authors: Bakarčić Danko , Vlah Nevenka , Cicvarić Odri , Petrović Dorotea , Šimunović-Erpušina Marija , Janković Suzana , Dragaš Zubalj Nataša , Kresina Sandro , Mohorić Silvia , Gržić Renata , Glibotić Kresina Helena , Ivančić Jokić Nataša
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Global research has shown that 60–90% of school children have caries, and that oral health care is of great public health significance. We present the data of an oral health promotion Program conducted in the Primorje-Gorski Kotar County (PGC), Croatia, from 2008 to 2019. The Program includes comprehensive preventive oral status assessments of first- and fifth-grade elementary school students, as well as oral health promotional and preventative activities for preschool children, pregnant women, and new mothers. Here, we aimed to analyze the Program data and determine its applicability and sustainability. Materials and Methods: We assessed the changes in caries prevalence in first- and fifth-grade PGC students by comparing the 2008–2019 dental registry data on decayed, missing, and filled teeth for primary teeth (dmft)/decayed, missing, and filled teeth for permanent teeth (DMFT) index means. We also analyzed the data from the administrative Program reports. Results: We analyzed the dental registry data of 44,422 children in the PGC (21,714 first and 22,708 fifth grade). The average Program response rate was 83%. We noted a dmft/DMFT index decrease from 4.66 to 3.73 (first graders) and from 2.50 to 1.00 (fifth graders). The 2017–2019 dmft was significantly smaller than that of 2008–2009. There were 2336 workshops conducted in kindergartens, 1240 in first grades, and 1015 in fifth grades; health visitors educated 26,559 women. There was an increasing trend in the number of insured people under the age of six using pediatric oral health care. Conclusions: The Program improved the behavior and oral health of children and included various stakeholders, avoided additional financial expenses, increased the number of children in care, and proved its necessity and sustainability. It has been recognized on a national level and has led to the creation of two oral health care programs.
Drug Utilization of Rifaximin-α in Patients with Hepatic Encephalopathy: Evidence from Real Clinical Practice in Italy
Authors: Perrone Valentina , Usala Marcello , Veronesi Chiara , Cappuccilli Maria , Degli Esposti Luca
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: This analysis described rifaximin utilization in Italian patients with hepatic encephalopathy (HE). Although rifaximin is effective in preventing HE relapses, therapeutic management and prescriptive attitudes might be improved. Materials and Methods: Between Oct-2020 and Sep-2021, approximately 12.7 million citizens, patients hospitalized for HE, were identified through the ICD-9-CM code 572.2. Among those discharged alive, utilization of rifaximin 550 mg vs. rifaximin 200 mg for two months post-admission was compared. Results: Of 634 patients hospitalized for HE, 447 (70.5%) were discharged alive. In the two following months, 276 (61.7%) received rifaximin, of whom 117 (26.2%) received rifaximin 550 mg (two daily tablets) and 159 (35.6%) received rifaximin 200 mg (six daily tablets); among 171 patients without rifaximin, 56 (32.7%) received lactulose/lactitol. One year after rifaximin initiation, patients on rifaximin 550 mg (vs. 200 mg) were more frequently persistent (i.e., did not interrupt therapy) (78.6% vs. 46.9%, p < 0.001), showed a lower switching proportion (21.4% vs. 40.7%, p < 0.050), and had a mean monthly dose closer to the recommendations of 36,000 mg/month (~33,000 mg/month vs. 11,629 mg/month, respectively). Conclusions: This analysis suggests suboptimal rifaximin utilization for HE management. Although rifaximin 550 mg is the only formulation with specific indication and reimbursability to prevent HE relapses in Italy, rifaximin 200 mg is more largely used. The need to improve rifaximin prescribing choices is supported by higher persistence, lower switching rates, and average doses aligned to recommendations in patients treated with rifaximin 550 mg.
Does Baseline Hounsfield Unit Predict Patients’ Outcomes Following Surgical Management of Unstable Osteoporotic Thoracolumbar Fractures?
Authors: Qretam Ahmed , Ceuterick Julien , Ghandour Maher , Mert Ümit , Herren Christian , Pishnamaz Miguel , Knobe Matthias , Hildebrand Frank , Sobottke Rolf , Mahmoud Mohamad Agha
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Osteoporotic fractures in the thoracic/lumbar spine pose significant challenges in surgical management, with high risks of complications. This study investigates the role of preoperative CT scans and Hounsfield Units (HUs) in predicting postoperative outcomes. Materials and Methods: A retrospective study was conducted from November 2015 to January 2018. Sixty-one patients over 60 years of age with unstable osteoporotic thoracolumbar spine fractures (OF: 3–4) were included. Preoperative CT scans were performed to measure HU values. Postoperative standing X-rays were taken at 3–12 months to assess signs of loosening, adjacent fractures, or screw dislodgement. HU was divided into quartiles: Q1 (<56.24), Q2 (56.24–72.63), Q3 (72.63–87.59), and Q4 (>87.59). Results: Out of the 61 patients, 14 (23%) exhibited signs of screw loosening, adjacent fractures, or screw dislodgement within 3 to 12 months postoperatively. The mean HU value measured was 65.21, with a range from 21.43 to 140.7. Notably, all patients with observed loosening or dislodgement had HU values below 68. HU significantly predicted mortality, with the second quartile showing a markedly increased risk (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] = 8.12; p = 0.044). However, HU quartiles were not significant predictors of other outcomes. Other factors (fracture level and ASA classification) also influenced clinical outcomes, particularly mortality. Conclusions: HU values from preoperative CT scans are crucial in predicting the risk of screw loosening, dislodgement, and adjacent fractures in osteoporotic spinal fractures. Integrating HU assessment into clinical practice can improve preoperative planning, allowing for more targeted surgical interventions and better clinical outcomes.
sRAGE as a Prognostic Biomarker in ARDS: Insights from a Clinical Cohort Study
Authors: Andrijevic Ana , Batranovic Uros , Nedeljkov Djordje , Gavrilovic Srdjan , Carapic Vladimir , Milic Svetislava , Matijasevic Jovan , Andrijevic Ilija
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a severe form of acute lung injury with high mortality, characterized by hypoxemic respiratory failure and diffuse lung damage. Despite advancements in care, no definitive biomarkers have been established for ARDS diagnosis and prognostic stratification. Soluble receptor for advanced glycation end-products (sRAGE), a marker of alveolar epithelial injury, has shown promise as a prognostic indicator in ARDS. This study evaluates sRAGE’s utility in predicting 28-day mortality. Materials and Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a tertiary care ICU in Serbia from January 2021 to June 2023. Adult patients meeting the Berlin definition of ARDS were included. Exclusion criteria included pre-existing chronic respiratory diseases and prolonged mechanical ventilation before diagnosis. Serum sRAGE levels were measured within 48 h of ARDS diagnosis using enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Clinical severity scores, laboratory markers, and ventilatory parameters were recorded. Logistic regression and survival analyses were used to assess the prognostic value of sRAGE for 28-day mortality. Results: A cohort of 121 patients (mean age 55.5 years; 63.6% male) was analyzed. Non-survivors exhibited higher median sRAGE levels than survivors (5852 vs. 4479 pg/mL, p = 0.084). The optimal sRAGE cut-off for predicting mortality was >16,500 pg/mL (sensitivity 30.4%, specificity 86.9%). Elevated sRAGE levels were associated with greater disease severity and an increased risk of 28-day mortality in ARDS patients, highlighting its potential as a prognostic biomarker. The main findings, while indicative of a trend toward higher sRAGE levels in non-survivors, did not reach statistical significance. Conclusions: The main findings, while indicative of a trend toward higher sRAGE levels in non-survivors, did not reach statistical significance (p = 0.084). sRAGE demonstrates potential as a prognostic biomarker in ARDS and has moderate correlation with 28-day mortality. Integrating sRAGE with other biomarkers could enhance risk stratification and guide therapeutic decisions. The retrospective design limits the ability to establish causation, underscoring the need for multicenter prospective studies.
Mechanical Properties of 7075-T6 Aluminum Alloy in Electrically Assisted Forming
Authors: Dou Shasha , Liu Zhuang , Li Zhijun , Shi Haojie , Zhou Kang , Xia Jiansheng
Published: January 2025

The coupling effects of electrical pulse, temperature, strain rate, and strain on the flow behavior and plasticity of 7075-T6 aluminum alloy were investigated and characterized. The isothermal tensile test and electrically assisted isothermal tensile test were performed at the same temperature, and the typical models were further embedded in ABAQUS for numerical simulation to illustrate the electroplastic effect. The results showed that electrical pulses reduced deformation resistance but greatly increased elongation. Compared with the traditional Johnson–Cook model, the proposed modified electroplasticity constitutive equations have a certain improvement in calibration accuracy for a highly nonlinear and thermoelectric coupling dynamic behavior. Moreover, combined with the electrically assisted three-point bending experiment, it was found that the springback angle decreases with the increase in current density. This is very close to the experimental result, further verifying the effectiveness of the thermoelectric coupling constitutive equation.
The Role of Skunks in the Epidemiology of Rabies in the State of Yucatan from 2000 to 2022: Current Perspectives and Future Research Directions
Authors: Puebla-Rodríguez Paola , García-González Octavio Patricio , Sánchez-Sánchez Rocío , Díaz-Sánchez Mauricio , Del Mazo Juan Carlos , Sauri-González Isaías , Alonzo-Góngora Adriana , García-Rodríguez Gabriel , López-Martínez Irma , Aréchiga-Ceballos Nidia
Published: January 2025

In 2019, the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) bestowed upon Mexico the status of a country free from canine-transmitted human rabies; however, the lingering public health challenge in the nation continues to be the sylvatic cycle of rabies. In Mexico, skunks play a significant role as reservoirs for four antigenic variants of the rabies virus. Nonetheless, up to this point, the specific skunk species involved in this cycle had not been accurately established. This study (2002–2022) aims to identify the taxonomy of skunk specimens diagnosed as rabies-positive in the state of Yucatan, in order to determine the species that serves as the reservoir for the Yucatan sylvatic lineage of rabies. This was achieved through the sequencing of an approximately 680 bp fragment of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome B. All samples belong to the species Spilogale angustifrons yucatanensis. This discovery offers valuable information for understanding and managing the wildlife rabies cycle in Mexico. It also contributes to an improved understanding of the taxonomy within the genus Spilogale.
Characteristics of Soil Microbial Community Structure in Different Land Use Types of the Huanghe Alluvial Plain
Authors: Cao Xintong , Cui Qinghua , Li Daiqing , Liu Yu , Liu Kun , Li Zhuoqing
Published: January 2025

The Huanghe alluvial plain plays a crucial role in biodiversity conservation. However, its ecosystem has become sensitive and fragile due to long-term human disturbances. Enhancing the resilience of this ecosystem and promoting the sustainable use of land resources are key to addressing its ecological challenges. Soil microbial communities are vital to ecosystem functioning, and land use is a major human factor influencing their structure and diversity. Existing research on the Huanghe alluvial plain primarily focuses on soil physicochemical properties and moisture content, with relatively limited attention given to soil microorganisms. Therefore, this study, using the Wudi Tanyang Forest Farm in the Huanghe alluvial plain as a case study, employs high-throughput metagenomic sequencing to analyze the composition and diversity of soil bacteria, eukaryota, archaea, and virus communities in five different land use types (Tamarix chinensis forest, Fraxinus chinensis forest, farmland, wetland, and grassland). The results indicate that: (1) At the phylum level, the top three bacteria communities were Pseudomonadota, Acidobacteriota, and Actinomycetota; the top three in the eukaryota communities were Ascomycota, Mucoromycota, and Basidiomycotina; the top three in the archaea communities were Nitrososphaerota, Euryarchaeota, and Candidatus Thermoplasmatota; and the virus communities were dominated by Uroviricota; (2) The microbial community structure of the Tamarix chinensis forest and the Fraxinus chinensis forest was similar, and was significantly different from the other three land use types; (3) The land use type had a significant effect on the diversity of the soil microbial communities, with a higher diversity in the wetland and grassland soils; (4) The dominant species of the soil microbial communities under different land use types showed significant differences. This study provides theoretical support for land use optimization and sustainable soil management in the Huanghe alluvial plain region.
Parasitism by Entomopathogenic Fungi and Insect Host Defense Strategies
Authors: Zhang Dinghai , Qi Haidi , Zhang Feng
Published: January 2025

Entomopathogenic fungi, a group of insect pathogens, are characterized by high insecticidal efficacy and minimal environmental impact. They are commonly used as biopesticides for pest control due to their significant practical value. We here classify entomopathogenic fungi according to the process of fungal infection in hosts, changes in host behavior during infection, and mechanisms of spore transmission, and review the strategies employed by insects to resist infection, including physical barrier defenses, immune system defenses, and behavioral avoidance of fungal pathogens. This review also discusses the pathogenic mechanisms of fungi on insects and the closely linked co-evolution between fungal pathogens and insect defenses. In conclusion, a perspective on future research is provided, emphasizing the impact of insect population density and spore concentration in the environment on disease outbreaks.
Plant Growth-Promoting Effect and Complete Genomic Sequence Analysis of the Beneficial Rhizosphere Streptomyces sp. GD-4 Isolated from Leymus secalinus
Authors: Xu Wanru , Liu Yimeng , Cheng Yiping , Zhang Jie
Published: January 2025

Plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are beneficial bacteria residing in the rhizosphere and are capable of enhancing plant growth through various mechanisms. Streptomyces sp. GD-4 is a plant growth-promoting bacterium isolated from the rhizosphere soil of Leymus secalinus. To further elucidate the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of the strain on plant growth, we evaluated the growth-promoting effects of Streptomyces sp. GD-4 on forage grasses and conducted comprehensive genome mining and comparative genomic analysis of the strain. Strain GD-4 effectively colonized the rhizosphere of three forages and significantly promoted the growth of both plant roots and leaves. Genome sequence functional annotation of GD-4 revealed lots of genes associated with nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur metabolism. Additionally, genes potentially involved in plant growth promotion such as indole-3-acetic acid (IAA) biosynthesis, trehalose production, siderophore production, and phosphate solubilization were annotated. Whole-genome analysis revealed that GD-4 may possess molecular mechanisms involved in soil nutrient cycling in rhizosphere soil and plant growth promotion. The bacteria also possess genes associated with adaptability to abiotic stress conditions, further supporting the ability of Streptomyces sp. GD-4 to colonize nutrient-poor soils. These findings provide a foundation for further research into soil remediation technologies in plateau regions.
Luminescent Properties and Thermal Stability of [PPh4][Cu3I4] with a Unique Helical Structure
Authors: Chen Luyi , Petrov Andrey A. , Li Mingming , Fateev Sergey A. , Tarasov Alexey B.
Published: January 2025

Hybrid halocuprates (I) with organic cations show great potential for optoelectronic applications due to their tunable luminescence and high thermal stability. In this study, the iodocuprate (I) [PPh4][Cu3I4], featuring unique helical chains of face-sharing tetrahedra, was synthesized and characterized. This compound exhibits a bandgap of 3.1 eV and orange luminescence at low temperature, attributed to self-trapped exciton emission. [PPh4][Cu3I4] demonstrates exceptional thermal stability among hybrid halocuprates with decomposition above 380 °C, forming a stable melt at ~255 °C without Cu+ oxidation in ambient atmosphere.
Machine Learning-Based Spectral Analyses for Camellia japonica Cultivar Identification
Authors: Rodrigues Pedro Miguel , Sousa Clara
Published: January 2025

Camellia japonica is a plant species with high cultural and biological relevance. Besides being used as an ornamental plant species, C. japonica has relevant biological properties. Due to hybridization, thousands of cultivars are known, and their accurate identification is mandatory. Infrared spectroscopy is currently recognized as an accurate and rapid technique for species and/or subspecies identifications, including in plants. However, selecting proper analysis tools (spectra pre-processing, feature selection, and chemometric models) highly impacts the accuracy of such identifications. This study tests the impact of two distinct machine learning-based approaches for discriminating C. japonica cultivars using near-infrared (NIR) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies. Leaves infrared spectra (NIR—obtained in a previous study; FTIR—obtained herein) of 15 different C. japonica cultivars (38 plants) were modeled and analyzed via different machine learning-based approaches (Approach 1 and Approach 2), each combining a feature selection method plus a classifier application. Regarding Approach 1, NIR spectroscopy emerged as the most effective technique for predicting C. japonica cultivars, achieving 81.3% correct cultivar assignments. However, Approach 2 obtained the best results with FTIR spectroscopy data, achieving a perfect 100.0% accuracy in cultivar assignments. When comparing both approaches, Approach 2 also improved the results for NIR data, increasing the correct cultivar predictions by nearly 13%. The results obtained in this study highlight the importance of chemometric tools in analyzing infrared data. The choice of a specific data analysis approach significantly affects the accuracy of the technique. Moreover, the same approach can have varying impacts on different techniques. Therefore, it is not feasible to establish a universal data analysis approach, even for very similar datasets from comparable analytical techniques.
Unlocking Antimicrobial Peptides: In Silico Proteolysis and Artificial Intelligence-Driven Discovery from Cnidarian Omics
Authors: Barroso Ricardo Alexandre , Agüero-Chapin Guillermin , Sousa Rita , Marrero-Ponce Yovani , Antunes Agostinho
Published: January 2025

Overcoming the growing challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), which affects millions of people worldwide, has driven attention for the exploration of marine-derived antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) for innovative solutions. Cnidarians, such as corals, sea anemones, and jellyfish, are a promising valuable resource of these bioactive peptides due to their robust innate immune systems yet are still poorly explored. Hence, we employed an in silico proteolysis strategy to search for novel AMPs from omics data of 111 Cnidaria species. Millions of peptides were retrieved and screened using shallow- and deep-learning models, prioritizing AMPs with a reduced toxicity and with a structural distinctiveness from characterized AMPs. After complex network analysis, a final dataset of 3130 Cnidaria singular non-haemolytic and non-toxic AMPs were identified. Such unique AMPs were mined for their putative antibacterial activity, revealing 20 favourable candidates for in vitro testing against important ESKAPEE pathogens, offering potential new avenues for antibiotic development.