bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Food Pathways of Salmonella and Its Ability to Cause Gastroenteritis in North Africa
Authors: Mohamed Mohamed-Yousif Ibrahim , Khalifa Hazim O. , Habib Ihab
Published: January 2025

Infections caused by human pathogenic bacteria in food sources pose significant and widespread concerns, leading to substantial economic losses and adverse impacts on public health. This review seeks to shed light on the recent literature addressing the prevalence of Salmonella in the food supply chains of North African countries. Additionally, it aims to provide an overview of the available information regarding health-related concerns, such as virulence genes, and the presence of antibiotic resistance in Salmonella. This review highlights a gap in our comprehensive understanding of Salmonella prevalence in the food supply chains of North African nations, with limited molecular characterization efforts to identify its sources. Studies at the molecular level across the region have shown the diversity of Salmonella strains and their virulence profiles, thus, these results show the difficulty of controlling Salmonella infections in the region. In addition, the discussion of antibiotic resistance makes it clear that there is a need for the development of comprehensive strategies to fight the potential threat of antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella strains. Despite common reports on animal-derived foods in this region, this review underscores the persistent challenges that Salmonella may pose to food safety and public health in North African countries.
Increasing Productivity and Recovering Nutritional, Organoleptic, and Nutraceutical Qualities of Major Vegetable Crops for Better Dietetics
Authors: Bhardwaj Raju Lal , Vyas Latika , Verma Mahendra Prakash , Meena Suresh Chand , Chattopadhyay Anirudha , Meena Neeraj Kumar , Jakhar Dan Singh , Kumawat Sita Ram
Published: January 2025

The intensive use of chemical fertilizers for vegetable cultivation to achieve higher productivity causes soil degradation, resulting in an alarming decline (25–50%) in nutritional quality and a reduction in a wide variety of nutritionally essential minerals and nutraceutical compounds in high-yielding vegetable crops over the last few decades. To restore the physio-chemical and biological qualities of soil as well as the nutritional and nutraceutical qualities of fresh produce, there is a growing desire to investigate the remedial impacts of organic sources of nutrition. This study specifically focused on the impact of six different ratios of chemical fertilizers and organic sources with microbial inoculation on vegetable productivity, nutrition quality, and soil health parameters. Results show that replacing chemical fertilizers with organic sources in the presence of a microbial consortium supports the proliferation of the microbial population in the soil rhizosphere and improves the nutritional status and physico-chemical quality of soil, which is the area around the roots of plants where maximum nutrient uptake occurs. This combination of factors significantly recovers overall soil quality, increasing crop productivity by 13.58 to 18.32 percent in tomato, brinjal, and okra. Experimental findings likewise indicate that an assortment of organic sources with a microbial consortium significantly recovers the abundance of beneficial microbes and earthworms in the rhizosphere, which leads to an improvement in nutritional, organoleptic, and nutraceutical quality, with higher antioxidant contents in all three vegetables grown in arid climate conditions.
Research on Innovative Apple Grading Technology Driven by Intelligent Vision and Machine Learning
Authors: Han Bo , Zhang Jingjing , Almodfer Rolla , Wang Yingchao , Sun Wei , Bai Tao , Dong Luan , Hou Wenjing
Published: January 2025

In the domain of food science, apple grading holds significant research value and application potential. Currently, apple grading predominantly relies on manual methods, which present challenges such as low production efficiency and high subjectivity. This study marks the first integration of advanced computer vision, image processing, and machine learning technologies to design an innovative automated apple grading system. The system aims to reduce human interference and enhance grading efficiency and accuracy. A lightweight detection algorithm, FDNet-p, was developed to capture stem features, and a strategy for auxiliary positioning was designed for image acquisition. An improved DPC-AWKNN segmentation algorithm is proposed for segmenting the apple body. Image processing techniques are employed to extract apple features, such as color, shape, and diameter, culminating in the development of an intelligent apple grading model using the GBDT algorithm. Experimental results demonstrate that, in stem detection tasks, the lightweight FDNet-p model exhibits superior performance compared to various detection models, achieving an mAP@0.5 of 96.6%, with a GFLOPs of 3.4 and a model size of just 2.5 MB. In apple grading experiments, the GBDT grading model achieved the best comprehensive performance among classification models, with weighted Jacard Score, Precision, Recall, and F1 Score values of 0.9506, 0.9196, 0.9683, and 0.9513, respectively. The proposed stem detection and apple body classification models provide innovative solutions for detection and classification tasks in automated fruit grading, offering a comprehensive and replicable research framework for standardizing image processing and feature extraction for apples and similar spherical fruit bodies.
Effects of Consuming Pulsed UV Light-Treated Pleurotus citrinopileatus on Vitamin D Nutritional Status in Healthy Adults
Authors: Hsu Chih-Ching , Chen Chiao-Ming , Ju Yu-Ming , Wu Yu-Ching , Hsieh Huei-Mei , Yang Shu-Hui , Su Chien-Tien , Fang Te-Chao , Setyaningsih Widiastuti , Li Sing-Chung
Published: January 2025

Vitamin D, essential for growth and health, is often deficient in Taiwan despite abundant sunlight. Plant-derived vitamin D2 (ergocalciferol) is bioavailable, environmentally friendly, and cost-effective. This study evaluated the efficacy of enhancing Pleurotus citrinopileatus (PC) mushrooms’ vitamin D2 content through pulsed ultraviolet (PUV) light and its impact on vitamin D status in humans. In a four-week randomized parallel trial, 36 healthy participants were assigned to three groups: a control group, a group consuming 10 g/day PUV-treated PC (PC-10 g), and a group consuming 100 g/day PUV-treated PC (PC-100 g). Blood samples collected pre- and post-intervention measured serum 25(OH)D2, 25(OH)D3, and biochemical parameters. After four weeks, serum 25(OH)D2 levels significantly increased in the PC-10 g group (1.47 ± 1.42 ng/mL to 9.50 ± 7.10 ng/mL, p = 0.001) and in the PC-100 g group (1.94 ± 2.15 ng/mL to 21.82 ± 16.75 ng/mL, p = 0.002), showing a 10.2-fold rise. The PC-100 g group also experienced a 37.6% reduction in serum intact parathyroid hormone (I-PTH) levels (26.26 ± 9.84 pg/mL to 16.38 ± 5.53 pg/mL). No adverse effects were reported. PUV-treated PC mushrooms significantly increase serum 25(OH)D2 levels and reduce I-PTH, particularly at higher doses. These findings underscore the potential of vitamin-D-enriched PC as a sustainable, fungi-derived food source for addressing vitamin D deficiency.
Kadozan Chitosan Formulation Enhances Postharvest Quality of Fresh Indian Jujube Fruit
Authors: Chen Lian , Lin Yixiong , Li Hui , Liu Qingqing , Chen Yihui
Published: January 2025

Indian jujube fruit is prone to perishing, resulting in a shorter shelf life after harvest. Kadozan is a liquid chitosan formulation that has a significant effect on fruit preservation. In order to explore its efficacy, the quality, and storability indicators of Indian jujube fruit were evaluated during storage at 15 ± 1 °C for 18 days. Results showed that Kadozan-treated fruit exhibited lower respiration rate, relative electrolyte leakage rate, weight loss, and decay index, along with higher firmness and commercially acceptable rate. Furthermore, Kadozan-treated fruit showed higher vitamin C, total sugar, titratable acid, total soluble solids, chlorophyll, and carotenoid contents, L* and h° values, but lower a* and b* values. Principal component analysis and comprehensive score revealed that Kadozan treatment helped preserve the appearance and nutritional qualities of Indian jujube fruit. The best effect was seen with 1:600 Kadozan among three concentrations (1:300, 1:600, 1:900). It was discovered that the commercially acceptable rate of 1:600 Kadozan-treated fruit was 37.5% higher than control fruit while the decay index was 30.5% lower than control fruit at 18 days. Therefore, Kadozan treatment has great substantial implications for the preservation of Indian jujube fruit, providing practical guidance for reducing its postharvest losses.
Discrete-Time Design of Fractional Delay-Based Repetitive Controller with Sliding Mode Approach for Uncertain Linear Systems with Multiple Periodic Signals
Authors: Kurniawan Edi , Burrohman Azka M. , Purwowibowo Purwowibowo , Wijonarko Sensus , Maftukhah Tatik , Prakosa Jalu A. , Rustandi Dadang , Pratiwi Enggar B. , Az-Zukhruf Amaliyah
Published: January 2025

In this paper, a discrete-time design of a fractional internal model-based repetitive controller with a sliding mode approach is presented for uncertain linear systems subject to repetitive trajectory and periodic disturbance. The proposed algorithm, named a fractional delay-based repetitive sliding mode controller (FD-RSMC), aims to enhance tracking accuracy, transient response, and robustness against parametric variations beyond what is offered by conventional repetitive controllers. First, a fractional delay-based repetitive controller (FD-RC) that allows the periodic delay steps to be noninteger is presented to improve the trajectory tracking accuracy and good disturbance compensation of multiple periodic signals. Second, a sliding mode control (SMC) with a discrete-time reaching law is systematically incorporated into FD-RC to improve transient response, especially during the learning period of FD-RC, and also to provide system robustness against model uncertainties. Finally, the stability proof of the closed-loop system with the proposed controller is assessed based on a delayed-sliding mode-reaching condition. Finally, comparative simulation studies are presented to demonstrate the superior performance of the proposed controller.
Existence and Uniqueness Results for a Class of Fractional Integro-Stochastic Differential Equations
Authors: Alanzi Ayed. R. A. , Alshqaq Shokrya S. , Fakhfakh Raouf , Ben Makhlouf Abdellatif
Published: January 2025

The objective of this paper is to demonstrate the existence and uniqueness (EU) of solutions to a class of Fractional Integro-Stochastic Differential Equations (FISDEs) by utilizing the fixed-point technique (FPT) and stochastic techniques. Additionally, the paper proves the continuous dependence (CD) of solutions on the initial data. We examine the Hyers–Ulam stability (HUS) of FISDEs by applying Gronwall inequalities. Two theoretical examples are presented to demonstrate our findings.
Dynamics of Fractional-Order Three-Species Food Chain Model with Vigilance Effect
Authors: Seralan Vinoth , Vadivel Rajarathinam , Gunasekaran Nallappan , Radwan Taha
Published: January 2025

This study examines a Caputo-type fractional-order food chain model, considering the Holling type II functional response with the vigilance effect. The model explores the interaction dynamics of the food chain model, which consists of prey, middle predators, and top predators. Additionally, habitat complexity is integrated into the model, which is assumed to reduce predation rates by lowering the encounter rates between predators and prey. All possible feasible equilibrium points are determined and the stability of our proposed model is explored near the equilibrium points. To support the analytical findings, numerical simulation results are given in terms of time series, phase portraits, and bifurcation diagrams. It is discovered that the proposed model can become more stable under a fractional-order derivative. Moreover, the interplay between the vigilance effect and habitat complexity is shown to influence the existence of stable and periodic dynamics.
Certain Death: Mike Flanagan’s Gothic Antidote to Traumatic Memory and Other Enlightenment Hang-Overs in Doctor Sleep
Authors: Bond Erik
Published: January 2025

This article uses the English Gothic’s eighteenth-century dismantling of male lineage and Enlightenment certainty in Horace Walpole’s The Castle Otranto as a lens for understanding the twenty-first-century commercial popularity of director Mike Flanagan’s Gothic films, particularly Doctor Sleep. Building on Stephen King’s 2013 novel and Stanley Kubrick’s 1980 film The Shining, Flanagan’s Doctor Sleep establishes a new lineage of male writers who value how the Gothic traditions of irrational emotion and doubt can inspire new realms of knowledge to lessen psychological suffering caused by traumatic lineage. By “traumatic lineage” I mean the threat and violence some find necessary to maintain the patrilineal claim that it is “naturally” the only way to organize society. Like Walpole’s mythopoeic Gothic novel, Flanagan’s Gothic films demonstrate how patrilineal lineage damages other men, not just women; thus, Flanagan’s films offer psychological workbooks for practicing a type of reparative masculinity that involves exposure-exercises of cognitive behavior therapy (Doctor Sleep’s “boxing” intrusive, traumatic memories), male communities of care, and interdependent empathy. I support this argument by closely reading how Flanagan’s filmic tools of domestic metaphor, uncanny casting, and repurposed sets from Kubrick’s The Shining not only tell how to exorcise the inherited stills of the Overlook Hotel but also show viewers how to do so. We experience Dan Torrance’s reparative masculinity in real-time, communally sharing and recasting Dan’s horrific images of 40 years ago, but we now relate to them in psychologically helpful ways that enable community. In this way, I illustrate and encourage future study of how Gothic texts not only point to marginalized, repressed problems, but more importantly, how they help us relate differently to a traumatic past and innovate strategies for immediate relief from inherited suffering.
The Impact of the Ukraine Conflict on the Quality of Life of the Young Population in Romania from a Societal Security Perspective
Authors: Mărcău Flavius Cristian , Peptan Cătălin , Iliuta Floris Petru , Cojoaca Marian Emanuel , Musetescu Alina Magdalena , Holt Alina Georgiana , Tomescu Ina Raluca , Căruntu Genu Alexandru , Gheorman Victor
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study examines the perception of young Romanians (aged 18–35) regarding the Ukraine conflict’s impact on Romania’s national security and quality of life. It focuses on societal security dimensions, analyzing the conflict’s regional and international implications, alongside sentiments toward global support for Ukraine. Methods: Data were collected via structured questionnaires administered to 848 participants in 2024 and 747 in 2022. Respondents’ perceptions of the Ukraine conflict, its influence on national security, and the direct consequences for quality of life were evaluated using the WHOQOL-BREF instrument. Statistical analyses (descriptive, bivariate, multivariate) were employed to explore variations across socio-demographic factors. Results: The findings indicate that young Romanians appreciate international solidarity with Ukraine but remain cautious about military escalation. While the conflict heightened perceptions of personal and national insecurity, WHOQOL-BREF assessments revealed significant declines in psychological, social, and environmental quality of life indicators from 2022 to 2024. Variations were observed based on age, gender, education level, and residence, with young rural women and those with lower educational attainment experiencing the most pronounced impacts. Conclusions: The study underscores the dual challenges of maintaining regional stability and addressing the socio-psychological fallout of conflicts. Despite resilience mechanisms tempering subjective perceptions, objective measures indicate deteriorations in the quality of life among Romania’s young population. These findings emphasize the need for targeted policies to support vulnerable groups through mental health initiatives, social support systems, and equitable access to resources.
Lived Experiences of Self-Care in Older Adults with Lymphoma Undergoing Chemotherapy Treatments During the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Thasaneesuwan Samonnan , Nilmanat Kittikorn , Maropi Anuchit , Sukrai Sudjit , Fitch Margaret I.
Published: January 2025

Background: To be diagnosed and treated for cancer can be a distressing experience, and it can require individuals to engage in self-care strategies to cope with the situation. The self-care experiences of older adults with lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic in Thailand remain rarely studied. This study aimed to explore the lived experiences of self-care among older adults with lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: A hermeneutic phenomenology research design was used. It involved in-depth interviews with nine older adults with lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy. Data analysis utilized van Manen’s approach, and trustworthiness was ensured by adhering to Lincoln and Guba’s criteria. Results: This study revealed that the lived experience of self-care among older adults with lymphoma receiving chemotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic encompasses five lifeworlds within the lived body, addressing aspects of (1) thumjai and (2) continuing to fight cancer. Lived relations means trusting healthcare providers and holding on together. Lived time reflects being aware of the natural path of life. The concept of lived space encompasses staying safe at home and staying cautious. Lived things reflect (1) accepting one’s own karma and (2) living economically. Conclusions: The findings enhance the understanding of self-care experiences among older adults with lymphoma undergoing chemotherapy during the COVID-19 pandemic in an Asian context. The findings can inform the development of a person-centered nursing intervention tailored for older persons that emphasizes cultural aspects.
Sedentary Behaviour and Its Correlates Among Older Adults in Malaysia
Authors: Kee Chee Cheong , Tan Lay Kim , Cheah Yong Kang , Teh Chien Huey , Lim Hui Li , Cheong Yoon Ling , Omar Mohd Azahadi , Mohd Ghazali Sumarni
Published: January 2025

Background: Sedentary behaviors (SBs), which are low-energy, wakeful activities performed in a sitting, reclining, or lying posture, are independently associated with numerous adverse health outcomes, including mental health disorders, non-communicable diseases, and an increased risk of mortality. This study investigated associations between sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle factors, mental health, nutritional status, social support, functional limitations, and SB among older persons in Malaysia. Methods: Data from 3977 individuals aged 60 years and above, extracted from the National Health and Morbidity Survey (NHMS) 2018, were analyzed using complex samples logistic regression. Results: The prevalence of sedentary behavior, defined as sitting or reclining for 8 or more hours per day, among the surveyed population was 23.2%. Older age (≥75 years) was significantly associated with higher odds of SB (AORs 1.58 to 2.76, p < 0.001 to p = 0.001). Unemployment (AOR = 1.32, p = 0.020) and indigenous Sabah and Sarawak ethnicity (AOR = 2.48, p = 0.007) were also linked to increased odds of SB. Conversely, individuals with a monthly income of MYR 1000-1999 had lower odds of SB compared to those earning ≥MYR 2000 (AOR = 0.64, p = 0.022), and those at risk of malnutrition were also less likely to engage in SB (AOR = 0.68, p = 0.031). No significant associations were found between SB and sex, marital status, educational level, or chronic illness. Conclusions: These findings suggest that public health initiatives to reduce SB among older adults should prioritize the oldest aged, unemployed, and specific ethnic communities, as well as addressing nutritional risk to promote healthier aging among older persons in Malaysia.
Examining Master’s Students’ Success at a Hispanic-Serving Institution
Authors: Tobin Kenneth John , De La Cruz Hernandez Jacinto , Palma José R. , Bennett Marvin , Chaudhuri Nandita
Published: January 2025

This work examines the indicators of master’s students’ persistence from 2014 to 2021 at a Hispanic-Serving Institution (HSI) in the southern United States. Demographic and academic variables were used in a logistic regression model to predict students’ successful completion across sixteen master’s programs. In this two-fold study, first, we examined the impact of COVID-19 on students enrolled in twelve face-to-face (F2F) programs and evaluated their performance against a pre-pandemic baseline period. Second, we compared student performance in four accelerated online programs against a pre-accelerated baseline. Most demographic variables were insignificant, while all academic variables were significant across program types. However, GPA became an insignificant variable when the F2F programs were forced to move online during the COVID-19 pandemic. During this period, GPA also increased for students who had discontinued their studies. The accelerated online programs recorded a significant decrease in terms enrolled (Term Count) compared to the pre-accelerated baseline. These results add to the limited literature on student success at the master’s level in HSIs, thus filling a vital knowledge gap. This study provides two case studies focusing on how the pandemic and the accelerated online learning model impacted academic persistence at the master’s level at an HSI.
WHOQOL-BREF in Measuring Quality of Life Among Sickle Cell Disease Patients with Leg Ulcers
Authors: da Guarda Caroline Conceição , de Carvalho Silva Jéssica Eutímio , Melo Gabriela Imbassahy Valentim , Santana Paulo Vinícius Bispo , Pacheco Juliana Almeida , Correa Bruno Terra , Santos Edvan do Carmo , Adorno Elisângela Vitória , Spier Andrea , Fonseca Teresa Cristina Cardoso , Goncalves Marilda Souza , Aleluia Milena Magalhães
Published: January 2025

Sickle cell disease (SCD) presents complex clinical manifestations influenced by genetic, social, environmental, and healthcare access factors as well as socioeconomic status. In this context, sickle cell leg ulcers (SLUs) are a debilitating complication of SCD. We aimed to describe sociodemographic data and evaluate the quality of life (QoL) of SCD patients with and without SLUs. We conducted a cross-sectional study including 13 SCD patients with SLUs and 42 without LUs. Clinical data were obtained by reviewing the medical records, and QoL was assessed with the WHOQOL-BREF questionnaire. Our cohort of patients had a mean age of 34.9 years, with 52.8% male, 52.8% identifying as black, and 41.7% identifying as brown. Most had low income, incomplete education, and high unemployment rates. The social habits and relationships of SCD patients showed varying levels of friendship and family closeness, and the majority of SLU+ patients did not practice sports. We failed to find statistical differences in the WHOQOL-BREF domains between SLU+ and SLU− patients. However, higher income and employment status were associated with improved WHOQOL-BREF domain scores in SCD patients, while vaso-occlusive episodes and female gender were linked to lower scores. Our data reinforce the sociodemographic characteristics of SCD. The physical domain was associated with income, occupation, and vaso-occlusion. The psychological domain was associated with income and occupation. The social relationship domain was associated with occupation and female gender. The environmental domain was associated with vaso-occlusion. The WHOQOL-BREF is a reliable tool to measure QoL in SCD.
Biofilm Formation, Modulation, and Transcriptomic Regulation Under Stress Conditions in Halomicronema sp.
Authors: Caldara Marina , Bolhuis Henk , Marmiroli Marta , Marmiroli Nelson
Published: January 2025

In nature, bacteria often form heterogeneous communities enclosed in a complex matrix known as biofilms. This extracellular matrix, produced by the microorganisms themselves, serves as the first barrier between the cells and the environment. It is composed mainly of water, extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), lipids, proteins, and DNA. Cyanobacteria form biofilms and have unique characteristics such as oxygenic photosynthesis, nitrogen fixation, excellent adaptability to various abiotic stress conditions, and the ability to secrete a variety of metabolites and hormones. This work focused on the characterization of the cyanobacterium Halomicronema sp. strain isolated from a brackish environment. This study included microscopic imaging, determination of phenolic content and antioxidant capacity, identification of chemicals interfering with biofilm formation, and transcriptomic analysis by RNA sequencing and real-time PCR. Gene expression analysis was centered on genes related to the production of EPS and biofilm-related transcription factors. This study led to the identification of wza1 and wzt as EPS biomarkers and luxR-05665, along with genes belonging to the TetR/AcrR and LysR families, as potential biomarkers useful for studying and monitoring biofilm formation under different environmental conditions. Moreover, this work revealed that Halomicronema sp. can grow even in the presence of strong abiotic stresses, such as high salt, and has good antioxidant properties.
Long Non-Coding RNA LOC113219358 Regulates Immune Responses in Apis mellifera Through Protein Interactions
Authors: Huang Minjie , Tan Xiaodong , Yang Shuyuan , Zhou Zhenzhen , Wang Deqian , Dong Jie
Published: January 2025

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are emerging as critical regulators in honeybee physiology, influencing development, behavior, and stress responses. This study investigates the role of lncRNA LOC113219358 in the immune response and neurophysiological regulation of Apis mellifera brains. Using RNA interference (RNAi) and RNA sequencing (RNA-seq), we demonstrate that silencing lncLOC113219358 significantly alters the expression of 162 mRNA transcripts, including genes associated with detoxification, energy metabolism, and neuronal signaling. Functional enrichment analysis revealed involvement in neuropeptide signaling, ATP synthesis, and oxidative phosphorylation pathways. Acetylcholinesterase (AChE), Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) and cytochrome P450 (CYP450) activities were significantly downregulated with 48 h of RNAi treatment. Additionally, RNA pull-down assays identified 113 proteins interacting with lncLOC113219358, including ATP synthase subunits, heat shock proteins, and major royal jelly proteins, suggesting its role in cellular stress responses and neural activity modulation. These findings provide mechanistic insights into how lncLOC113219358 mediates honeybee responses to environmental stressors, contributing to our understanding of lncRNA-regulated neural and immune functions in pollinators.
Characterizing SV40-hTERT Immortalized Human Lung Microvascular Endothelial Cells as Model System for Mechanical Stretch-Induced Lung Injury
Authors: Hochreiter Beatrix , Lindner Claudia , Postl Matthias , Hunyadi-Gulyas Eva , Darula Zsuzsanna , Domenig Oliver , Sharma Smriti , Lang Irene M. , Kiss Attila , Spittler Andreas , Hoetzenecker Konrad , Reindl-Schwaighofer Roman , Krenn Katharina , Ullrich Roman , Wieser Matthias , Grillari-Voglauer Regina , Tretter Verena
Published: January 2025

Drug development for human disease relies on preclinical model systems such as human cell cultures and animal experiments before therapeutic treatments can ultimately be tested on humans in clinical studies. We here describe the generation of a novel human cell line (HLMVEC/SVTERT289) that we generated by transfection of microvascular endothelial cells from healthy donor lung tissue with the catalytic domain of telomerase and the SV40 large T/small t-antigen. These cells exhibited satisfactory growth characteristics and largely maintained their native characteristics, including morphology, cell surface marker expression, angiogenic potential and the protein composition of secreted extracellular vesicles. In order to test their suitability as a disease model, we simulated mechanical stress induced by cyclic stretch as encountered in ventilator-induced lung injury using the FlexCell® system and compared their performance to primary lung endothelial cells. In this setting, HLMVEC/SVTERT289 cells exhibited significantly higher neprilysin activity on the cell surface and extracellular vesicles secreted from the cell line exhibited higher Tissue Factor and ACE2 expression but lower ACE expression and ACE activity than vesicles released from the primary cells. This study provides an unprecedented and detailed characterization of the HLMVEC/SVTERT289 cell line, which should help to appraise its suitability in different molecular studies.
SARS-CoV-2 FP1 Destabilizes Lipid Membranes and Facilitates Pore Formation
Authors: Sumarokova Maria , Pavlov Rais , Lavushchenko Tatiana , Vasilenko Egor , Kozhemyakin Grigory , Fedorov Oleg , Molotkovsky Rodion , Bashkirov Pavel
Published: January 2025

SARS-CoV-2 viral entry requires membrane fusion, which is facilitated by the fusion peptides within its spike protein. These predominantly hydrophobic peptides insert into target membranes; however, their precise mechanistic role in membrane fusion remains incompletely understood. Here, we investigate how FP1 (SFIEDLLFNKVTLADAGFIK), the N-terminal fusion peptide, modulates membrane stability and barrier function across various model membrane systems. Through a complementary suite of biophysical techniques—including electrophysiology, fluorescence spectroscopy, and atomic force microscopy—we demonstrate that FP1 significantly promotes pore formation and alters the membrane’s mechanical properties. Our findings reveal that FP1 reduces the energy barrier for membrane defect formation and stimulates the appearance of stable conducting pores, with effects modulated by membrane composition and mechanical stress. The observed membrane-destabilizing activity suggests that, beyond its anchoring function, FP1 may facilitate viral fusion by locally disrupting membrane integrity. These results provide mechanistic insights into SARS-CoV-2 membrane fusion mechanisms and highlight the complex interplay between fusion peptides and target membranes during viral entry.
Targeting Bacterial Cell Division with Benzodioxane–Benzamide FtsZ Inhibitors as a Novel Strategy to Fight Gram-Positive Ovococcal Pathogens
Authors: Furlan Berenice , Sobrinos-Sanguino Marta , Sammartino Marcella , Monterroso Begoña , Zorrilla Silvia , Lanzini Alessia , Suigo Lorenzo , Valoti Ermanno , Massidda Orietta , Straniero Valentina
Published: January 2025

The widespread emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious threat to global public health and among Gram-positive cocci, Streptococcus pneumoniae constitutes a priority in the list of AMR-threatening pathogens. To counteract this fundamental problem, the bacterial cell division cycle and the crucial proteins involved in this process emerged as novel attractive targets. FtsZ is an essential cell division protein, and FtsZ inhibitors, especially the benzamide derivatives, have been exploited in the last decade. In this work, we identified, for the first time, some benzodioxane–benzamide inhibitors capable of targeting FtsZ in Streptococcus pneumoniae, in addition to their previously demonstrated activity against other bacteria. These promising benzamides, with minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs) ranging from 25 to 80 µg/mL, demonstrated bactericidal activity against S. pneumoniae. This was evidenced by their ability to dramatically affect growth and viability, further supported by the morphological changes observed through microscopy. Moreover, the compounds were characterized in vitro, combining turbidity measurements and confocal imaging, and significant alteration of a GTP-induced FtsZ assembly was found, in line with our previous data from other microorganisms.
Infectious Spleen and Kidney Necrosis Virus ORF093R and ORF102R Regulate Glutamate Metabolic Reprogramming to Support Virus Proliferation by Interacting with c-Myc
Authors: Niu Yinjie , Ye Caimei , Lin Qiang , Liang Hongru , Luo Xia , Ma Baofu , Li Ningqiu , Fu Xiaozhe
Published: January 2025

Glutamine metabolism is essential for infectious spleen and kidney necrosis virus (ISKNV) replication. Glutaminase 1 (GLS1), the key enzyme of the glutamine metabolism, and c-Myc positively regulate ISKNV infection, while c-Myc is closely correlated with GLS1. However, the regulatory mechanism among ISKNV, c-Myc and glutamine metabolism remains unclear. Here, we indicated that c-Myc increased glutamine uptake by increasing the GLS1, glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH2) expression of glutamine metabolism. ISKNV ORF102R, ORF093R and ORF118L co-located with c-Myc in CPB cells. Co-IP results showed that ISKNV ORF102R and ORF093R interacted with c-Myc, while ORF118L did not interact with c-Myc. The expression levels of c-Myc, GLS1 and IDH2 were increased in ISKNV ORF093R expression cells, and the mRNA and protein levels of GLS1 were upregulated in ISKNV 102R-expressing cells. These results indicated that ISKNV reconstructed glutamine metabolism to satisfy the energy and macromolecule requirements for virus proliferation by ORF093R and ORF102R interacting with c-Myc, which provides the foundation for innovative antiviral strategies.
Publisher’s Note: A New Chapter for the International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM)—Continued Publication by MDPI
Authors: Aunós Clàudia
Published: January 2025

The International Journal of Orofacial Myology and Myofunctional Therapy (IJOM) has been an important part of the orofacial myology field since its establishment in 1975 [...]
Identifying the Impacts of Social Movement Mobilization on YouTube: Social Network Analysis
Authors: Osman Norhayatun Syamilah , Kim Jae-Hun , Park Jae-Hong , Park Han-Woo
Published: January 2025

This study explores the potential of social media in improving education, engagement, and mobilization for climate change initiatives. Using the theoretical framework of resource mobilization and methods such as social network analysis (SNA) and bipartite networks, it examines how effective deployment of resources such as information, social capital, and organizational capabilities can help in the progression of collective movements. Social media platforms, particularly YouTube, significantly influences network structures by facilitating resource mobilization and driving essential engagement. This study extracted data from NodeXL and found that YouTube is an effective medium in disseminating climate change information and delivering educational content to a multilingual audience. Additionally, video affordances such as storytelling, audio–visual effects, and concise narratives enhance viewer interest and engagement, increasing resource mobilization effectiveness. This research offers insights into optimizing social media use for effective resource mobilization and engagement in climate change initiatives.
The Homopolyatomic Sulfur Cation [S20]2+
Authors: Derendorf Janis , Heiderich Lara , Jenne Carsten , Nierstenhöfer Marc C.
Published: January 2025

Homopolyatomic cations of the main group elements and of the element sulfur, in particular, are used as tutorial examples to teach structure and bonding in inorganic chemistry. So far, the cations [S4]2+, [S8]2+, [S19]2+, [S5]•+, and [S8]•+ are known experimentally. In this report, the generation and crystal structure determination of the salt Na2[S20]2[B12Cl12]3, containing the new homopolyatomic sulfur cation [S20]2+, is reported. The structure of the latter cation consists of two seven-membered homocycles, which are bridged by a six-membered sulfur chain. This structure is strongly related to that of [S19]2+. The heptasulfur rings show pronounced bond alternation. Comparison with the experimental structures of [S7X]+ (X = I, Br) and the application of quantum chemical calculations show unambiguously that the observed structural features are intrinsic properties of the cationic cyclo-heptasulfur moieties. The latter can occupy different conformations, which only slightly differ in energy. Charge delocalization and negative hyperconjugation contribute to the stability of the observed structures. The discovery of the [S20]2+ cation fits well into range of known homopolyatomic sulfur cations, which can be classified by their averaged oxidation state of sulfur.
Cardiovascular Disease Risk Factors in the Native American Population
Authors: Goerger Krista , Abbott Karla , Larson Mark K. , Holinstat Michael
Published: January 2025

Native Americans are disproportionately affected by cardiovascular disease in comparison with other racial and ethnic groups in the United States. Previous research has analyzed risk factors, quantified prevalence rates, and examined outcomes of cardiovascular disease in Native Americans, yet few studies have considered the role of societal and psychological factors on the increased burden of cardiovascular disease in Native Americans. Modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular disease, including poor nutrition, reduced physical activity, obesity, and increased substance use, are exacerbated in Native American communities due to cultural and historical factors. Further, Native Americans have endured historical trauma and continue to experience additional financial and healthcare stressors, resulting in increased levels of chronic stress. Chronic activation of stress responses through the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal and autonomic nervous system increases inflammation and cardiovascular dysfunction resulting in an increased risk for cardiovascular disease. Therefore, it is critical to examine the connection between these stressors and the cardiovascular health disparities in Native American communities to create effective strategies to improve health outcomes.
Computed Tomography Angiography in the Catheterization Laboratory: A Guide Towards Optimizing Coronary Interventions
Authors: Beneki Eirini , Dimitriadis Kyriakos , Pyrpyris Nikolaos , Antonopoulos Alexios , Aznaouridis Konstantinos , Antiochos Panagiotis , Fragoulis Christos , Lu Henri , Meier David , Tsioufis Konstantinos , Fournier Stephane , Aggeli Constantina , Tzimas Georgios
Published: January 2025

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) has become an essential tool in the pre-procedural planning and optimization of coronary interventions. Its non-invasive nature allows for the detailed visualization of coronary anatomy, including plaque burden, vessel morphology, and the presence of stenosis, aiding in precise decision making for revascularization strategies. Clinicians can assess not only the extent of coronary artery disease but also the functional significance of lesions using techniques like fractional flow reserve (FFR-CT). By providing comprehensive insights into coronary structure and hemodynamics, cardiac CT helps guide personalized treatment plans, ensuring the more accurate selection of patients for percutaneous coronary interventions or coronary artery bypass grafting and potentially improving patient outcomes.
Stuck Prosthetic Valves: Clinical Implications of Pannus Formation and Gradient Measurement in Surgical Outcomes
Authors: Sağlam Muhammet Fethi , Uguz Emrah , Erdogan Kemal Eşref , Erçelik Hüseyin Ünsal , Yücel Murat , Hıdıroglu Mete , Şener Erol
Published: January 2025

Objective: Stuck prosthetic valves, often resulting from pannus formation or thrombus accumulation, represent a critical complication in prosthetic valve management, carrying significant risks for morbidity and mortality. This study aims to identify factors associated with stuck valve development and assess the effectiveness of interventions in restoring normal valve function. Methods: A total of 27 patients with stuck valves were analyzed, including mitral, aortic, and tricuspid valve cases. Metallic valves were initially implanted in all patients. Interventions included pannus cleaning in suitable cases and valve replacement when necessary, with the replacement being either metallic and biological based on clinical indications. Preoperative and postoperative ECG rhythms, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) values, and gradient measurements were evaluated across patient groups. Results: No significant difference was found in time since initial surgery across valve types (p = 0.67), except in mitral valves, where time was longer in the replacement group (p = 0.02). Maximum gradients were higher in the pannus cleaning group for mitral valves (p = 0.03), while overall gradient values showed no significant differences. Postoperative left ventricular ejection fraction improved significantly in all groups (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The findings highlight the importance of timely intervention in managing stuck prosthetic valves, which are associated with severe hemodynamic compromise and embolic risk. Pannus cleaning emerged as a viable alternative in selected cases where the obstruction was localized, with the valve structure otherwise intact. Biological valve replacements demonstrated superior rhythm stabilization in this study, although definitive conclusions are constrained by the minimal sample size (n = 2). Future research should focus on expanding sample sizes and incorporating comprehensive preoperative analyses to better inform surgical and clinical management strategies.
Mid-Term Outcomes of a Rectangular Stem Design with Metadiaphyseal Fixation and a 135° Neck–Shaft Angle in Reverse Total Shoulder Arthroplasty
Authors: Ameziane Yacine , Audigé Laurent , Schoch Christian , Flury Matthias , Schwyzer Hans-Kaspar , Scaini Alessandra , Maggini Emanuele , Moroder Philipp
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Classical reverse shoulder arthroplasty (RSA) with a high neck–shaft angle (NSA) of 155° has shown satisfactory outcomes. However, newer RSA designs aim to improve results by modifying the stem design. This study evaluates the 5-year outcomes of a stem design featuring a rectangular metadiaphyseal fixation and a 135° NSA. Methods: This prospective bicentric case series included and longitudinally followed up patients that were treated for cuff arthropathy, massive irreparable rotator cuff tears, or eccentric osteoarthritis using a non-cemented rectangular metadiaphyseal fixation stem with a 135° NSA (Univers Revers, Arthrex, Naples, FL, USA). Subjective and objective functional outcome scores (Constant–Murley Score (CS), Shoulder Pain and Disability Index (SPADI), and Subjective Shoulder Value (SSV)), range of motion (ROM), radiographic outcome, adverse events, complications, and quality of life were investigated. Results: This study enrolled 132 patients (59% female, mean age 75 years, SD 6). At the 5-year follow-up, subjective and objective outcomes significantly improved compared to baseline: CS (32.9 to 71.7, p < 0.001), SPADI (38.7 to 86.2, p < 0.001), and SSV (43.0 to 84.1, p < 0.001). ROM improved in flexion (80° to 142.4°, p < 0.001), abduction (71.5° to 130.2°, p < 0.001), internal rotation (p < 0.001), internal rotation at 90° abduction (12.7° to 45.0°, p < 0.001), and abduction strength (0.8 kg to 5.2 kg, p < 0.001). External rotation remained unchanged (32.1° to 32.0°, p = 0.125), but external rotation at 90° abduction improved (20.9° to 52.7°, p < 0.001). No signs of implant migration, subsidence, shift, tilt, alignment loss, or wear were observed, but scapular bone spur formation (11%), scapular notching grade 1 (10%), bone resorption (10%), and partial humeral radiolucent lines (1%) were reported. Conclusions: Rectangular stems with metadiaphyseal fixation and a 135° neck–shaft angle in RSA consistently improve shoulder function, showing no aseptic loosening and minimal radiological changes at 5 years.
Evaluation of Perineal Descent Measurements on Pelvic Floor Imaging
Authors: van Gruting Isabelle M. A. , Kluivers Kirsten , Stankiewicz Aleksandra , IntHout Joanna , van Delft Kim W. M. , Thakar Ranee , Sultan Abdul H.
Published: January 2025

Objectives: The aim of this study is to validate a uniform method for measuring perineal descent which can be used for different imaging methods, to establish cut-off values for this measurement, and to assess diagnostic test accuracy (DTA) of imaging techniques using these cut-off values. Secondly, the study aims to correlate perineal descent to symptoms, signs and imaging findings in women with obstructed defaecation syndrome (ODS) to assess its clinical relevance. Methods: Cross-sectional study of 131 women with symptoms of ODS. Symptoms and signs were assessed using validated methods. These women underwent evacuation proctography (EP), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), transperineal ultrasound (TPUS) and endovaginal ultrasound (EVUS). Perineal descent was measured on EP and MRI as the position of anorectal junction (ARJ) with respect to the pubococcygeal line (PCL) at rest (i.e., static descent) and during evacuation (i.e., descent at Valsalva). Dynamic perineal descent was measured on all four imaging techniques as the difference between the position of the ARJ at rest and Valsalva. DTA of dynamic perineal descent was estimated using Latent Class Analysis in the absence of a reference standard. Results: Interobserver agreement of dynamic perineal descent measurements was good for MRI and EVUS (ICC 0.86 and 0.85) and moderate for EP and TPUS (ICC 0.61 and 0.59). The systematic differences in measurements between imaging techniques show the need for individual cut-off values. New established cut-off values for dynamic descent are for EP 20 mm, MRI 35 mm, TPUS 15 mm and EVUS 15 mm. Sensitivity was moderate for EP (0.78) and MRI (0.74), fair for TPUS (0.65) and poor for EVUS (0.58). Specificity was similar for all imaging techniques (0.73–0.77). Static perineal descent correlated with symptoms of pelvic organ prolapse (POP) (r = 0.19), prolapse of all three compartments (r = 0.19–0.36), presence of levator ani muscle avulsion (p = 0.01) and increased hiatal area (r = 0.51). Dynamic perineal descent correlated with excessive straining (r = 0.24) and use of laxatives (r = 0.24). Classic symptoms of ODS (incomplete evacuation and digitation) did not correlate with perineal descent measurements. Static and dynamic perineal descent were associated with presence of rectocele, enterocele, intussusception, and absence of anismus. Conclusions: Dynamic perineal descent is a reliable measurement that can be applied to different imaging techniques to allow standardisation. Static descent is more often present in women with POP and dynamic descent is more often present in women with constipation. Perineal descent does not correlate with typical symptoms of ODS. Specificity of TPUS and EVUS is comparable to EP and MRI, hence ultrasound could be used for the initial assessment of pelvic floor dysfunction.