bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluating the antagonist effect of naltrexone implant via opioid challenge tests with escalating doses of hydromorphone injection in former heroin dependent patients
Authors: Qu Wei , Wang Xuyi , Dong Chongyang , Zhang Tao , Yin Shugui , Sun Zhijun , Wang Shiqiang , Guo Anni , Hao Wei
Published: January 2025

Opioid dependence is a serious, life-threatening condition with severe social impacts. Naltrexone (NTX) can weaken the effect of opioids and effectively reduce opioid self-administration, discrimination, and opioid-induced subjective effects, and the oral dosage form has been approved for the treatment of opioid dependence. However, the effectiveness of oral naltrexone as an opioid antagonist has been limited due to poor patient adherence. A long-acting formulation in the form of naltrexone implant (NTX-IMP) with a five-month duration of action may address this issue and improve outcomes. This study (trial registration number: CTR20181954) aimed to evaluate the effect, safety, and pharmacokinetics of NTX-IMP in agonist effects via hydromorphone challenge test, and to determine optimal dosages for future research. Thirty-one former opioid-dependent individuals were randomized to the 0.9g or the 1.5g NTX-IMP group. All subjects exhibited significant antagonistic effects during hydromorphone challenge test. Calculation of slope between VAS score or pupil diameter and hydromorphone dose suggested a stronger antagonistic effect in the 1.5 g group. Pharmacokinetic data suggested that effective plasma naltrexone concentration (≥1ng/ml) was detected from the third day for over 148 days, with higher concentration and longer duration in the 1.5 g group. All subjects tolerated NTX-IMP well. The findings indicate that the NXT-IMP effectively blocks the agonistic effects of hydromorphone in a dose-dependent manner.
The Memory and Affective Flexibility Task: a new behavioral tool to assess neurocognitive processes implicated in emotion-related impulsivity and internalizing symptoms
Authors: Allen Kenneth J. D. , Elliott Matthew V. , Ronold Eivind H. , Rajgopal Nandini A. , Hammar Åsa , Johnson Sheri L.
Published: January 2025

Background

Cognitive rigidity and working memory impairment are established features of internalizing syndromes. Growing evidence suggests that deficits in affective control –cognitive control in the context of emotion – may underpin elevated emotion-related impulsivity in various psychiatric disorders.

Objective

This study examines two components of affective control (affective flexibility and emotional working memory) as potential neurocognitive processes linking emotion-related impulsivity to internalizing psychopathology.

Method

Undergraduate participants (analysis n = 120) completed the Memory and Affective Flexibility Task (MAFT), a novel behavioral assessment designed to assess hot cognition in affective flexibility and emotional working memory performance, alongside self-report measures of impulsivity and symptoms of internalizing disorders.

Results

Structural equation modeling suggested that less accurate working memory during neutral trials (cool cognition) was associated with more symptoms of internalizing psychopathology. However, effects of hot working memory and affective flexibility were not significantly related to emotion-related impulsivity or psychopathology scores.

Conclusions

Although findings provide no support for the validity of MAFT indices of hot cognition, these results replicate and extend work on the importance of cool working memory and emotion-related impulsivity as correlates of psychopathology.
Red blood cell distribution width to albumin ratio is associated with increased depression: the mediating role of atherogenic index of plasma
Authors: Shangguan Tingting , Xu Jing , Weng Xiaochun , Lin Hao
Published: January 2025

Background

Recent studies have identified a correlation between inflammation and depression. This study aims to explore the correlation between the red blood cell distribution width (RDW) to albumin ratio (RAR), a practical measure for assessing inflammation, and depression in the general population.

Methods

In this population-based cross-sectional study, data from 28932 adults aged≥18 years old in the NHANES during the period of 1999–2018 were analyzed. To examine the correlation between RAR and depression, multivariate logistic regression analyses, subgroup analyses, restricted cubic spline analyses, and interaction tests were conducted. Furthermore, a mediation analysis was performed to elucidate the role of atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in mediating the effect of RAR on depression.

Results

Multivariate logistic regression analyses and restricted cubic splines analysis indicated that RAR can exhibit a linearly correlation with depression (OR = 1.335; 95% CI: 1.222, 1.458). Subjects in RAR Q2, Q3, Q4 groups had an increased risk on depression as 22.8%, 22.9% and 51.9% than those in the Q1 group. This positive correlation was more pronounced in those with history of cancers. The ROC analysis indicated that the area under the curve (AUC) for RAR (AUC=0.593) was significantly greater than that for RDW and albumin individually. Mediation analysis indicated that AIP mediated 7.8% of the correlation of RAR with depression.

Conclusions

The findings of this study indicated a significant linear positive correlation between RAR and the prevalence of depression, with AIP serving as a mediator.
Motivational strategies reduce recidivism and enhance treatment adherence in intimate partner violence perpetrators with substance use problems
Authors: Lila Marisol , Expósito-Álvarez Cristina , Roldán-Pardo Manuel
Published: January 2025

Introduction

The incorporation of motivational strategies has shown promising results in increasing the effectiveness of intervention programs for intimate partner violence perpetrators, such as enhancing treatment adherence and decreasing risk of intimate partner violence recidivism. This could be particularly important for participants with alcohol and/or other drug use problems (ADUPs), who are at higher risk of recidivating and dropping out from the intervention. Consequently, there is a need to study whether motivational strategies are also effective for high-risk and highly resistant participants. The aim of this study was to determine whether the incorporation of motivational strategies led to improved outcomes in participants with ADUPs compared to those without.

Methods

Participants were intimate partner violence male perpetrators who received a standard intervention (n = 349) or a standard intervention adding an individualized motivational plan (n = 367). Data on official intimate partner violence recidivism, intervention dose, and dropout were collected after the end of the intervention. Comparisons were made between participants with and without ADUPs in each intervention condition.

Results

Results showed that in the full sample of participants, irrespective of their condition, those with ADUPs presented a higher recidivism (p = .007) and dropout rate (p = .003) and lower intervention dose than those without ADUPs (p = .005). When only considering participants in the standard intervention, results also showed that intimate partner violence perpetrators with ADUPs had a higher recidivism (p = .025) and dropout rate (p = .015) and lower intervention dose (p = .048) than those without. However, there were no significant differences between participants with and without ADUPs in the standard intervention adding an individualized motivational plan.

Discussion

When incorporating motivational strategies into the standard interventions for intimate partner violence perpetrators, disparities between participants with and without ADUPs were mitigated. Specifically, participants with ADUPs showed similar outcomes to those without ADUPs after receiving the standard intervention adding an individualized motivational plan. Our results suggest that motivational strategies may be effective in reducing intimate partner violence recidivism and improving treatment adherence in high-risk and highly resistant intimate partner violence perpetrators.
The knowledge, attitude, and practice toward fall prevention of parturients in the obstetric inpatient wards: a comparative cross-sectional study between nurses and parturients
Authors: Wen Jing , Wen Jiao , Jing Wenjuan , He Hongmei , Ren Jianhua
Published: January 2025

Objective

This study aimed to compare the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of parturients and nurses regarding fall prevention among parturients, with the goal of understanding the cognitive factors contributing to post-delivery fall.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey was conducted among obstetric nurses and women in obstetric ward within 2 days after vaginal delivery. The survey instrument included a self-design questionnaire comprising a demographic information sheet and a KAP questionnaire, which demonstrated acceptable reliability and validity.

Results

A total of 705 nurses and 1,220 parturients completed the survey. Over half of both nurses and parturients exhibited reasonably good knowledge, positive attitudes and appropriate practices related to fall prevention. Significant associations were identified between the education level of parturients and their knowledge and attitudes. Nurses scored lower in the attitude dimension compared to parturients (4.32 ± 1.01 vs. 4.84 ± 0.36, P < 0.001), whereas nurses scored higher than parturients in the practice dimension (3.76 ± 0.44 vs. 3.57 ± 0.48, P < 0.001).

Conclusion

Nurses should focus on enhancing the fall practices of parturients by emphasizing key points for fall prevention and providing guidance in situations of improper behaviors (e.g., unaccompanied activities). Further education programs for nurses should prioritize increasing their confidence and proficiency in fall prevention.
Machine learning and public health policy evaluation: research dynamics and prospects for challenges
Authors: Li Zhengyin , Zhou Hui , Xu Zhen , Ma Qingyang
Published: January 2025

Background

Public health policy evaluation is crucial for improving health outcomes, optimizing healthcare resource allocation, and ensuring fairness and transparency in decision-making. With the rise of big data, traditional evaluation methods face new challenges, requiring innovative approaches.

Methods

This article reviews the principles, scope, and limitations of traditional public health policy evaluation methods and explores the application of machine learning in evaluating public health policies. It analyzes the specific steps for applying machine learning and provides practical examples. The challenges discussed include model interpretability, data bias, the continuation of historical health inequities, and data privacy concerns, while proposing ways to better apply machine learning in the context of big data.

Results

Machine learning techniques hold promise in overcoming some limitations of traditional methods, offering more precise evaluations of public health policies. However, challenges such as lack of model interpretability, the perpetuation of health inequities, data bias, and privacy concerns remain significant.

Discussion

To address these challenges, the article suggests integrating data-driven and theory-driven approaches to improve model interpretability, developing multi-level data strategies to reduce bias and mitigate health inequities, ensuring data privacy through technical safeguards and legal frameworks, and employing validation and benchmarking strategies to enhance model robustness and reproducibility.
UAV-assisted federated learning with hybrid LoRa P2P/LoRaWAN for sustainable biosphere
Authors: Behjati Mehran , Alobaidy Haider A. H. , Nordin Rosdiadee , Abdullah Nor Fadzilah
Published: January 2025

The increasing amount of data sensors generate, and the dynamic nature of climate and environment pose challenges for conventional smart environmental monitoring systems. These systems encounter difficulties in long-distance data communication, accurate data processing, and generalized prediction modeling, particularly in large-scale, remote, and hard-to-reach areas. Moreover, they are costly, complex, and inefficient, especially in regions with limited telecommunications infrastructure. Consequently, there is a pressing need for more efficient and effective monitoring techniques to safeguard natural resources and ecosystems. To address these challenges, we propose the concept of a novel environmental monitoring system that integrates aerial access networks (AAN), federated learning (FL), and hybrid LoRa Point-to-Point (P2P)/LoRaWAN technologies. This integration offers a reliable and efficient solution for monitoring remote regions. We provide an overview of the AAN, FL, and aerial FL paradigms and discuss the benefits and challenges of their integration. Preliminary simulation results demonstrated the proposed system’s feasibility and effectiveness. Lastly, we outline open challenges and potential research directions to advance this field.
Demise of cadaveric islet transplantation in the USA: Quo Vadis, 1 year after BLA approval and 24 years after the Edmonton breakthrough?
Authors: Witkowski Piotr , Wojcik Nicole , Appelbaum Nathan , Fung John J. , Barth Rolf N. , Ricordi Camillo
Published: January 2025

More than a year after the Biological License Application (BLA) approval for CellTrans, cadaveric islet transplantation remains in demise in the United States (U.S.). While the therapy is unavailable to Americans, it is already a standard of care procedure in other countries, including Canada, Australia, and many in Europe. This article discusses the challenges stemming from an outdated regulatory framework in the U.S. concerning cadaveric islet transplantation. It also presents advocacy efforts by the transplant community for appropriate regulatory adjustments and discusses future perspectives.
Numerical investigation on structure optimization and heat transfer of a phase change accumulator based on changing eccentricity and fin parameters
Authors: Yiting Shi , Liting Zhang , Yongwen Yang , Tao Zhang , Qifen Li
Published: January 2025

In the contemporary era, the scarcity and strain of energy resources, combined with the pursuit of their efficient utilization, have posed critical challenges to the global community. Energy storage technology provides a solution to defer the utilization of heat or cold, thus tackling the root cause of energy shortages. Significantly, the integration of new energy sources has further enhanced the demand for energy storage. In contrast, the cost of heat storage is only one-tenth of that of electricity storage, which endows heat storage with more promising application prospects. Within the domain of heat storage, phase change heat storage has emerged as a prominent research focus due to its unique advantages such as high heat storage density, compact volume, and convenient control and matching capabilities. Consequently, we have made efforts to investigate the characteristics of phase change heat storage and improve heat transfer efficiency. Specifically, based on CFD simulation software and the enthalpy method mathematical model, a numerical model of the phase transformation process of tubular paraffin coupled with thermal conductivity and natural convection was established, and its heat absorption and heat release characteristics were simulated. The results indicate that the phase transition interface is symmetrical in general, but asymmetrical in the upper and lower parts, with the paraffin at the top having the fastest melting speed. To enhance the heat absorption and release process of phase change, the eccentric sleeve and fin were introduced. With the increase of eccentricity, the circulating flow range caused by natural convection expands. This is because the amount of paraffin in the lower part decreases and the thermal resistance reduces, which accelerates the melting speed. Moreover, increasing the eccentricity within a certain range is beneficial to accelerating the melting process. The addition of fins can significantly shorten the melting time of paraffin wax. Also, increasing the fin height and fin width can effectively reduce the melting time. However, as the fin height and fin width increase, the shortening gradient gradually decreases.
The active roles of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa ZTHY2 in regulating antioxidant capacity and immune function of Leizhou black ducks
Authors: Wu Jiang , Hu Yingxin , Zhao Namula , Yang Wei , Chen Zhibao
Published: January 2025

Previous studies in mice have demonstrated that Rhodotorula mucilaginosa ZTHY2 can promote animal growth, enhance antioxidant and immune functions, and regulate intestinal flora in our laboratory. This study focuses on the Leizhou black duck, a local breed in Zhanjiang, to evaluate the effects of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa ZTHY2 on its growth, antioxidant capacity, and immune function. A total of 150 1-day-old male Leizhou black ducks, of similar size and healthy, were selected for this study and randomly assigned to five treatment groups. Each group contained three replicates with ten birds each. The control group (Control) was given a standard basal diet, while the RM group received a diet supplemented with ZTHY2 at concentrations of 2 × 107 (RM1), 2 × 108(RM2), or 2 × 109(RM3) CFU/kg, respectively. The LA group was supplemented with 2 × 109 CFU/kg of Lactobacillus acidophilus in addition to the basal diet. The feeding trial lasted 42 days. The analysis revealed significant improvements in the average body weight for the RM2 and RM3 groups, which were significantly higher than that of the control group (p < 0.05 and p < 0.01). Treatment with ZTHY2 induced a dose-dependent elevation in superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), and SOD activities, and a reduction in malondialdehyde (MDA) content in the serum at 42 days. The serum levels of complement components C3 and C4, immunoglobulin IgG, and cytokines IFN-γ, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, and TNF-α were significantly increased in Leizhou black ducks treated with ZTHY2 at 42-days post-treatment, with the therapeutic effect becoming more pronounced as the duration of the experiment prolonged. The greatest impact was observed at a dosage of 2 × 109 CFU/kg of ZTHY2. Moreover, ZTHY2 modulated the mRNA expression profiles of these cytokines in the thymus, spleen, and bursa, thereby sustaining the balance of immune dynamics. In summary, the supplementation of Rhodotorula mucilaginosa ZTHY2 at a dosage of 2 × 109 CFU/kg had been found to most effectively enhance the growth performance of Leizhou black ducks by optimizing their immune function and antioxidant capacity.
Assessment of the effect of agro-industrial by-products rich in polyphenols on in vitro fermentation and methane reduction in sheep
Authors: Vastolo Alessandro , Mora Blandine , Kiatti Dieu donné , Nocerino Martina , Haroutounian Serkos , Baka Rania D. , Ligda Panagiota , Cutrignelli Monica Isabella , Niderkorn Vincent , Calabrò Serena
Published: January 2025

Introduction

This study aimed to evaluate, using the in vitro gas production technique, the effect of including eight agro-industrial by-products (carob, grape, two types of olive pomace, citrus pulp, tomato, and hazelnut skin) on fermentation end-products, ruminal degradability, and methane production in sheep diets.

Methods

The by-products were included at 10% dry matter in the control (CTR) diet, commonly adopted for adult sheep (80% natural grassland and 20% concentrate), and incubated at 39°C under anaerobic conditions.

Result and discussion

After 24 h of the incubation, the organic matter degradability (OMD24h) and methane production were assessed. After 120 h of the incubation, the organic matter degradability (OMD120h), volume of gas produced (OMCV), fermentation kinetics, pH, volatile fatty acids (VFAs), and ammonia were evaluated. Dunnett’s test was used to compare the differences between the control and experimental diets, and multivariate analysis was performed to highlight the differences among the diets based on their in vitro characteristics. The results indicated that the inclusion of the by-products decreased the degradability and increased gas production after 120 h of the incubation. The by-products from the hazelnuts, citrus, grapes, and tomatoes significantly (p < 0.001) reduced the methane production, whereas the pomegranate, grape, 3-phase olive cake, tomato, and hazelnut by-products significantly (p < 0.001) increased the acetate production. The multivariate analysis showed that the butyrate concentration was a determining factor in the differences between the diets. The concentration of polyphenols in the selected agro-industrial by-products could modify fermentation parameters and metabolic pathways, leading to reduced methane production.
Comprehensive Analysis of HY-2B/2C/2D Satellite-Borne GPS Data Quality and Reduced-Dynamic Precise Orbit Determination
Authors: Jin Xin , Wang Guangzhe , Guo Jinyun , Peng Hailong , Jia Yongjun , Chang Xiaotao
Published: January 2025

The deployment of the HY-2B/2C/2D satellite constellation marks a significant advancement in China’s marine dynamic environmental satellite program, forming a robust three-satellite network. All satellites are equipped with the “HY2_Receiver”, an indigenous technological achievement. Precise orbit determination using this receiver is critical for monitoring dynamic oceanic parameters such as sea surface wind fields and heights. This study presents a detailed analysis and comparison of the GPS data quality from the HY-2B/2C/2D satellites, emphasizing the impact of phase center variation (PCV) model corrections on orbit accuracy, with a particular focus on high-precision reduced-dynamic orbit determination. The experimental results demonstrate that the GPS data from the satellites exhibit consistent satellite visibility and minimal multipath errors, confirming the reliability and stability of the receivers. Incorporating PCV model corrections significantly enhances orbit accuracy, achieving improvements of approximately 0.3 cm. Compared to DORIS-derived orbits from the Centre National d’Études Spatiales (CNES), the GPS-derived reduced-dynamic orbits consistently reach radial accuracies of 1.5 cm and three-dimensional accuracies of 3 cm. Furthermore, validation using Satellite Laser Ranging (SLR) data confirms orbit accuracies better than 3.5 cm, with 3D root mean square (RMS) accuracies exceeding 3 cm in the radial (R), along-track (T), and cross-track (N) directions. Notably, the orbit determination accuracy remains consistent across all satellites within the HY-2B/2C/2D constellation. This comprehensive analysis highlights the consistent and reliable performance of the indigenous “HY2_Receiver” in supporting high-precision orbit determination for the HY-2B/2C/2D constellation, demonstrating its capability to meet the rigorous demands of marine dynamic environmental monitoring.
Annual Garden Rocket and Radish as Microgreens: Seed Germination Response to Thermal and Salt Stress
Authors: Toscano Stefania , Romano Daniela , Cafaro Valeria , Patanè Cristina
Published: January 2025

Temperature and salinity level of the imbibition medium play a crucial role in regulating seed germination and seedling emergence, which is also true in microgreen production, where temperature and water potential may influence seed germination alone and/or in combination. In this study, the effects of different temperatures and water potentials in NaCl, alone or in combination, upon germination and early radicle growth, were assessed in two species for microgreen production (Eruca sativa-rocket, and Raphanus sativus-radish). Seeds were germinated at eight constant temperatures (from 5 to 35 °C) and five water potentials (ψ) in NaCl (from 0 to −1.2 MPa). Final germination percentage (FGP) was maximized at 15–20 °C in rocket, and at 20–25 °C in radish. As the temperature increased or decreased, germination was reduced and became less uniform, to a greater extent, at suboptimal temperatures in both species. Across water potentials, FGP values exceeding 50% at the highest temperature in radish indicated a greater tolerance than rocket to supraoptimal temperatures during germination. Across temperatures, FGP and germination speed in both species were progressively depressed as the water potential decreased. The adverse effects of NaCl progressively increased as the temperature moved away from its optimal value. Overall, rocket seeds were able to germinate well (>80%) at 20 °C at salinity levels down to −0.9 MPa, while radish seeds were able to germinate well (≥90%) at 25 °C at salinity levels down to −0.9 MPa. Salt stress tolerance was higher in rocket and radish at low and high temperatures, respectively. Both thermal time and hydrotime requirements were higher in radish because its seeds took longer to germinate. Thermal time and hydrotime may help to predict the germination capacity and time, once the temperature or water potential of the imbibition substrate is known. The findings of this study have important implications for the large-scale industrial production of microgreens.
Advancing Veterinary Oncology: Next-Generation Diagnostics for Early Cancer Detection and Clinical Implementation
Authors: Alshammari Aya Hasan , Oshiro Takuya , Ungkulpasvich Umbhorn , Yamaguchi Junichi , Morishita Masayo , Khdair Sura Abbas , Hatakeyama Hideyuki , Hirotsu Takaaki , di Luccio Eric
Published: January 2025

Cancer is a leading cause of death among companion animals, with many cases diagnosed at advanced stages when clinical signs have appeared, and prognosis is poor. Emerging diagnostic technologies, including Artificial Intelligence (AI)-enhanced imaging, liquid biopsies, molecular diagnostics, and nematode-based screening, can improve early detection capabilities in veterinary medicine. These tools offer non-invasive or minimally invasive methods to facilitate earlier detection and treatment planning, addressing the limitations of traditional diagnostics, such as radiography and tissue biopsies. Recent advancements in comparative oncology, which leverage the biological similarities between human and companion animal cancers, underscore their translational value in improving outcomes across species. Technological advances in genomics, bioinformatics, and machine learning are driving a shift toward precision medicine, enabling earlier detection, personalized treatments, and monitoring of disease progression. Liquid biopsy testing detects circulating tumor DNA and tumor cells, providing actionable insights into tumor genetics without invasive procedures. Imaging systems enhance diagnostic precision, offering consistent and accurate tumor identification across veterinary practices, while portable innovations like Caenorhabditis elegans-based screening provide accessible options for underserved regions. As these technologies migrate from human medicine to veterinary applications, they are poised to redefine cancer care for companion animals. This review highlights key advancements in diagnostic technologies and their application in veterinary oncology, with a focus on enhancing early detection, accessibility, and precision in cancer care. By fostering the adoption of these innovations, veterinary oncology can achieve a new standard of care, improving outcomes for both animals and humans through the lens of comparative oncology.
Experimental and Numerical Analysis of Ratcheting Behavior of Super Duplex SAF2507 Stainless Steel Under Uniaxial Loading
Authors: Liu Hongru , Chen Xiaohui , Zhang Xiaoyue , Cui Xiaodong
Published: January 2025

Super duplex SAF2507 stainless steel is widely used in petrochemical piping systems during the transport of substances. The pipelines are subjected to cyclic loads due to road vibration and internal pressure, which causes the ratcheting behavior. In this research project, we conducted a battery of uniaxial ratcheting experiments of super duplex SAF2507 stainless steel under displacement cycling, and the effects of stress amplitude, mean stress, and pre-strain on the ratcheting strain were evaluated. The findings showed that ratcheting strain grew as mean stress and stress amplitude rose under identical stress conditions. Additionally, as pre-strain levels increased, the ratcheting strain was observed to diminish. In addition, a three-dimensional ratcheting boundary graph was created with stress amplitude, mean stress, and ratcheting strain rate. This represented a graphical surface area for the study of ratcheting strain rates for various combinations of mean stress and stress amplitude. A rate-independent model was developed by combining the Armstrong–Frederick (A-F) hardening rule with Ohno–Wang (O-W II) model, called the AF-OW II model. This constitutive model was implemented in the ABAQUS 2021 finite element software to numerically analyze the ratcheting evolution of SAF2507 stainless steel. The results indicated that the calculated results of the AF-OW II model closely aligned with the experimental data.
15N-Nitrogen Use Efficiency, Productivity, and Quality of Durum Wheat Integrating Nitrogen Management and an Indigenous Bacterial Inoculant in a Single Growing Season
Authors: Ayala-Zepeda Marisol , Parra-Cota Fannie Isela , Chinchilla-Soto Cristina , De La Cruz-Torres Eulogio , Ibba María Itria , Estrada-Alvarado María Isabel , de los Santos-Villalobos Sergio
Published: January 2025

In the Yaqui Valley, Mexico, the current and estimated annual growth rate of durum wheat (Triticum turgidum L. subsp. durum) yield is insufficient to satisfy the food demand that the world will be facing by 2050. Furthermore, besides the high doses of fertilizers applied to wheat in this region, nitrogen-use efficiency (NUE) remains low (<34.4%). A sustainable strategy to reduce the use of fertilizers and to increase crop yield and quality is the use of native plant growth-promoting bacteria as microbial inoculants. This study was performed under field conditions during one agricultural season in the Yaqui Valley, Mexico. It aimed to quantify the impact of the inoculation of a native bacterial consortium (BC) composed of Bacillus cabrialesii subsp. cabrialesii TE3T, Priestia megaterium TRQ8, and Bacillus paralicheniformis TRQ65 on grain yield, grain quality, and NUE (measured through 15N-isotopic techniques) at different stages of development of durum wheat variety CIRNO C2008 under three doses of urea (0, 120, and 240 kg N ha−1) fractionated at 30%, 60%, and 10%. Results showed that yield, quality, and NUE were highly affected by the N doses, while the inoculation of the BC had a lower impact on these parameters. Nevertheless, the inoculation of the BC on wheat had positive effects at the early stages of growth, on plant height (+1.6 cm), root depth (+11.9 cm), and spikes per square meter (+25 spikes m−2). Moreover, the addition of the BC improved N acquisition by the plants, at different crop growth stages, compared to uninoculated treatments. Finally, our results indicated that reducing the N dose from 240 kg of N ha−1 to 120 kg of N ha−1 improved the NUE (27.5% vs. 44.3%, respectively) of the crop. Hence, results of this preliminary study showed that the incorporation of bacterial inoculants into the wheat crop requires a simultaneous adequate N management, in order to obtain the desired positive effect on wheat productivity.
Seasonal Shifts and Smart Stats: Improving Biodrying in Waste Management
Authors: Traven Luka
Published: January 2025

The biodrying process is a well-established method in solid waste management for reducing the moisture content of municipal solid waste (MSW), facilitating its mechanical treatment, enhancing energy recovery efficiency, and simplifying disposal. However, challenges such as variability in drying efficiency, seasonal fluctuations, and operational inconsistencies limit its optimization and broader applicability. This study undertakes a detailed evaluation of biodrying operations using Statistical Process Control (SPC) techniques to improve process stability and identify key factors influencing efficiency. Data collected over a one-year period from a waste management facility employing Herhoff Rotteboxes® reveal an average drying efficiency of 28%, with notable seasonal trends showing reduced efficiency during summer and fall. A regression model analyzing waste load, operational parameters, and seasonal effects accounted for 25% of the variability in drying efficiency, suggesting additional factors like waste composition and microbial activity significantly impact the process. This study highlights the value of SPC tools in monitoring process stability and demonstrates how targeted optimization strategies—such as seasonal adjustments and refined loading practices—can enhance biodrying outcomes. By addressing gaps in current practices, these findings contribute to the advancement of waste management technologies and support the development of more efficient and sustainable systems for handling municipal solid waste.
A Review of the Phytochemistry, Molecular Docking, Pharmacology, Toxicology, Ethnopharmacology, Botany, and Clinical Studies of Maytenus senegalensis (Lam.) Excell
Authors: Ramadwa Thanyani Emelton , Meddows-Taylor Stephen
Published: January 2025

Maytenus senegalensis (Lam.) Excell, also known as Gymnosporia senegalensis (Lam.) Loes, is distributed particularly in savannah regions of tropical Africa. It is used to treat malaria, tuberculosis, rheumatism and diarrhea, amongst other afflictions. The objective of this comprehensive review is to summarize studies on phytochemistry, molecular docking, pharmacology, toxicology, ethnopharmacology, botany, and clinical trials of M. senegalensis. Data on M. senegalensis were collected using different databases such as Google Scholar, Science Direct, Web of Science, Scopus, SciFinder, Wiley Online, etc. This review showed that 118 biomolecules from different parts of M. senegalensis were identified. A total of 46 compounds were tested for antiplasmodial, anti-inflammatory, and antiproliferative activities, and some in vivo studies were carried out on mice. Isomintlactone (31), pristimerin (24), and jacareubin (32) were analyzed for molecular docking. The crude extracts and fractions had pharmacological activities, including antiparasitic, antimycobacterial, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antiproliferative, and antidiabetic, while showing low toxicity in mice. Clinical trial studies on the safety and tolerability of M. senegalensis ethanol root bark extracts in male volunteers showed its potential immunomodulatory effects. Another trial specifically evaluated the electrocardiographic effects of M. senegalensis in adult volunteers and showed its advantageous cardiac profile by improving the overall safety profile.
State of the Art in the Standardization of Stromal Vascular Fraction Processing
Authors: Cremona Martina , Gallazzi Matteo , Rusconi Giulio , Mariotta Luca , Gola Mauro , Soldati Gianni
Published: January 2025

Stromal Vascular Fraction (SVF) has gained significant attention in clinical applications due to its regenerative and anti-inflammatory properties. Initially identified decades ago, SVF is derived from adipose tissue and has been increasingly utilized in a variety of therapeutic settings. The isolation and processing protocols for SVF have evolved substantially, particularly after its classification as an Advanced Therapy Medicinal Product (ATMP), which mandates adherence to Good Manufacturing Practices to ensure sterility and product quality. Despite the progress, few studies over the last decade have focused on the standardization of SVF processing. Recent advances, driven by the potential of SVF and its derived products such as Adipose-derived Stem Cells, have prompted the development of improved isolation strategies aimed at enhancing their therapeutic and regenerative efficacy. Notable progress includes the advent of automated processing systems, which reduce technical errors, minimize variability, and improve reproducibility across laboratories. These developments, along with the establishment of more precise protocols and guidelines, have enhanced the consistency and clinical applicability of SVF-based therapies. This review discusses the key aspects of SVF isolation and processing, highlighting the efforts to standardize the procedure and ensure the reliability of SVF products for clinical use.
Effect of Vibro-Tactile Stimulation Sequence and Support Surface Inclination on Gait and Balance Measures
Authors: Engsberg Christopher P. , Hunt Nathaniel H. , Barlow Steven , Mukherjee Mukul
Published: January 2025

The plantar surfaces of the feet are important for balance control during walking, specifically by allowing for the perception of pressure movements during stance. Background/Objectives: The current study aimed to perturb CoP movement perception in healthy individuals by applying vibrations to the soles of the feet in different stimulation sequences: a natural pattern that followed CoP movement (gait-like) and a perturbing pattern that did not follow the CoP (random) during walking. We hypothesized that the gait-like stimulation sequence would be similar to walking without any stimulation and therefore have no effect on balance measures and that the random sequence would negatively affect balance measures such as the anteroposterior (AP) and mediolateral (ML) margins of stability (MoSs) and foot placement area. Methods: Subjects walked at a level angle and 5.0 and 8.0 degrees of incline and with low visual conditions to increase reliance on tactile sensations from the feet. Results: No significant effect of the stimulation sequence was found at any incline, while there was a significant effect of incline. As the incline increased from level to 5 deg, subjects reduced their AP MoS measured at heel strikes from 4.36 ± 0.56 cm to 1.95 ± 1.07 cm and increased their foot placement area from 24.04 ± 11.13 cm2 to 38.98 ± 17.47 cm2. However, the AP MoS measured at midstance did not significantly change as the incline increased. Conclusions: The stimulation sequence had no effect on the dependent measures, but the subjects could still feel the vibrations on the plantar surfaces during walking; this implies that similar stimulation techniques could be a useful method for applying directive biofeedback without negatively impacting gait. Overall, this study demonstrates the detailed control of our tactile system and the adaptability of healthy individuals while walking with a perturbing stimulation.
Acral Melanoma in Skin of Color: Current Insights and Future Directions: A Narrative Review
Authors: Nadelmann Emily R. , Singh Ajay K. , Abbruzzese Matteo , Adeuyan Oluwaseyi O. , Kenchappa Divya B. , Kovrizhkin Katherine , Lightman Michelle , Samouha Avishai , Tao Kevin L. , Yun Jaewon , Zhu Tian R. , McLellan Beth N. , Saenger Yvonne M.
Published: January 2025

Acral melanoma (AM), also known as acral lentiginous melanoma (ALM), is a rare subtype of melanoma that predominantly occurs on the palms, soles, and nail beds (Figure 1) [...]
Prognostic Stratification of Epithelioid Pleural Mesothelioma Based on the Hippo-TEADs Network
Authors: Poma Anello Marcello , Bruno Rossella , Petrini Iacopo , Di Stefano Iosè , Celi Alessandra , Sbrana Andrea , Cappelli Sabrina , Chella Antonio , Melfi Franca , Lucchi Marco , Alì Greta
Published: January 2025

Background. The Hippo pathway is the most frequently altered signaling in pleural mesothelioma (PM). Epithelioid PM (ePM) is associated with better outcome than non-epithelioid subtypes, but its prognosis can be heterogeneous. Here, we tried to stratify ePM using the expression levels of the Hippo-TEAD network. Methods. Thirty patients with ePM were included in this study. Tumors were stratified using the expression levels of 74 genes belonging to the Hippo-TEAD network and using the non-negative matrix factorization algorithm. Results were validated using ePM cases from the TCGA cohort. Alterations associated with the molecular subgroups were investigated using mutation and copy number alteration data from TCGA. Results. Two groups of ePM (i.e., HP1 and HP2) were identified and validated using TCGA data. HP2 comprises about one-third of tumors. These tumors are frequently high-grade (73% vs. 35%), have higher levels of downstream Hippo effectors (i.e., YAP1, WWTR1 and TEADs), lower levels of VSIR—which encodes for VISTA—and poorer PFS and OS. HP2 tumors commonly harbor homodeletions in Hippo core suppressors (25% vs. 3%), while no specific gene mutation or copy number alterations of Hippo genes was associated with the two groups. Conclusions. ePM can be stratified in prognostic subtypes based on the expression levels of the Hippo-TEAD network. Higher levels of downstream Hippo effectors are associated with poor response to platinum-pemetrexed doublet and worse OS. The stratification of ePM based on the activation of the YAP/TAZ-TEAD axis is an intriguing approach in the light of the inhibitors of this signaling that are currently under investigation.
High-Density Lipoproteins from Coronary Artery Disease and Aortic Valve Stenosis Patients Differentially Regulate Gene Expression in a Model of Cardiac Adipocytes
Authors: Luna-Luna María , Páez Araceli , Massó Felipe , López-Marure Rebeca , Zozaya-García Jorge Moisés , Vargas-Castillo Ariana , Gómez-Pineda Daniel , Tovar Armando R. , Magaña Jonathan J. , Fragoso José Manuel , Gutiérrez-Saldaña Margarita , Téllez-Osorio Zuriel , Pérez-Méndez Óscar
Published: January 2025

Previous reports have described a statistical association between high-density lipoproteins (HDL) subclasses and the expression of genes coding for pro-calcifying proteins in the epicardial adipose tissue of patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and aortic valvular stenosis (AVS). These results suggest a causal relationship between HDL and the regulation of gene expression in epicardial adipose tissue. However, there is no experimental evidence that supports this causal relationship. Therefore, we explored the effect of HDL isolated from CAD or AVS patients on the expression of OPN, BMP2, and BMP4, genes coding for proteins related to calcification, osteopontin, and bone morphogenetic proteins -2 and -4, respectively, and LEP, UCP, and PER, coding for leptin, uncoupling protein-1, and perilipin-2, respectively, proteins that confer phenotypic characteristics to adipocytes. The experiments were performed using a novel model of cardiac adipocytes differentiated in vitro from stromal cells of rabbit cardiac adipose tissue. AVS or CAD patients’ HDL differentially modulated the expression of BMP4 and LEP, whereas HDL from both kinds of patients upregulated the OPN gene expression. A high concentration of triglycerides associated to small HDL and a higher concentration of phospholipids of large HDL from CAD patients than those from AVS individuals were the most remarkable structural differences. Finally, we demonstrated that cholesterol from reconstituted HDL was internalized to the adipocytes. The regulation of genes related to the secretory activity of cardiac adipocytes mediated by HDL has clinical implications as a potential therapeutic target for the prevention and treatment of CAD and AVS. In summary, the HDL isolated from the CAD and AVS patients differentially regulated gene expression in adipocytes by a mechanism that seems to be dependent on HDL lipid internalization to the cells and structural characteristics of the lipoproteins.
Writhing Movements and Hypoglycemia in Moderate–Late Preterm Infants: A Prospective Cohort Study
Authors: Merino-Andrés Javier , Fernández-Rego Francisco Javier , Hidalgo-Robles Álvaro , Cayeiro-Marín María , López-Muñoz Purificación , Pérez-Nombela Soraya
Published: January 2025

Introduction: This study aims to examine the relationship between hypoglycemia and general movement patterns during the early post-term-aged in moderate-to-late preterm infants and to assess the interobserver reliability of movement evaluation during this period. Compared with full-term infants, moderate-to-late preterm infants constitute the largest group of premature births globally and are at greater risk of developing neurodevelopmental disorders. Hypoglycemia is one of the most prevalent risk factors in this group. Methods: This prospective single-center explorative cohort study included moderate-to-late preterm infants during their admission in the neonatal intensive care unit. General movements were assessed via Prechtl’s General Movements Assessment, and blood glucose levels were monitored via the FreeStyle Optium™ Neo glucometer. Associations were analyzed via Fisher’s exact test, whereas interobserver reliability was evaluated via the intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) and the kappa coefficient. Results: A total of 17 moderate-to-late preterm infants with hypoglycemia (<45 mg/dL) presented a relatively high percentage (58.8%) of poor repertoire and normal (35.2%) general movement patterns during the early post-term-aged. Interobserver reliability was good (ICC = 0.7), and the kappa coefficient indicated moderate reliability (0.4). Conclusions: Moderate-to-late preterm infants with transient hypoglycemia may frequently display poor repertoire movement patterns, highlighting the need for careful monitoring. Furthermore, the evaluation of general movements proves to be a reliable tool during the early post-term-aged.
The Influence of Roughness of Surfaces on Wear Mechanisms in Metal–Rock Interactions
Authors: Florea Vlad Alexandru , Toderaș Mihaela , Danciu Ciprian
Published: January 2025

The processes of rock excavation and processing involve intense mechanical stresses on cutting, displacing, and transporting tools, inevitably leading to the phenomenon of dry friction wear. The factors influencing the intensity and mechanisms of wear are complex and interdependent, being conditioned by the physical–mechanical properties of the rocks, the geometric characteristics and materials of the tools, as well as the cutting process parameters (cutting force, feed rate). Previous studies have mainly addressed the global aspect of wear without delving into the microstructural evolution of the contact surfaces during the friction process. In this paper, through controlled tribometric tests, we have investigated in detail the abrasive wear mechanisms of metallic materials in contact with different types of rocks, with an emphasis on the role played by surface roughness and the mineralogical properties of the rocks. Experimentally, we varied the applied forces and the number of friction cycles to simulate different working conditions and evaluate how these parameters influence wear intensity and surface morphology evolution. Microstructural analysis of the samples, combined with roughness measurements, allowed the identification of the predominant degradation mechanisms (abrasion, adhesion, fatigue) and their correlation with the material properties and the friction process parameters. The results have shown a strong correlation between the wear capacity of rocks and their petrographic properties, such as hardness, porosity, and hard mineral content. It was also found that the roughness of the contact surfaces plays an essential role in wear mechanisms, influencing both the initiation and propagation of its effects. Depending on the experimental data, we have developed a classification of rocks based on their abrasive potential and proposed criteria for the optimal adoption of materials and working parameters for the tools of technological equipment depending on the type of rock encountered. The results of this study can contribute to improving the durability of tools, as well as mining equipment, and reducing operating costs.