bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Slovenian Nursing Students’ Perspectives and Experiences with Nursing Care of People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Qualitative Descriptive Study
Authors: Pađen Ljubiša , Vettorazzi Renata , Ravljen Mirjam , Pajnič Manca
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Providing nursing care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can be challenging for nursing students, often perceived as stressful, demanding, and, at times, unpleasant. This study aimed to describe the experiences of students in their interactions and provision of nursing care for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Methods: A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Fourteen self-reflections from nursing students were analysed by using qualitative content analysis. Results: The findings indicate that students experience contact and nursing care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities as dynamic and varied. This process is characterised by transitions in communication and interaction, emotional transitions, and transitions in knowledge and understanding of caring and nursing care. Conclusions: Students encountered emotional, cognitive, and behavioural challenges when interacting with and providing care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their experience is described as multidimensional and demanding. Gaining insight into these experiences and understanding the students’ perspectives are essential for planning future theoretical and practical nursing education.
New Approaches in Viticulture: Different Rates of Net Shadow Applications to Yield, Must, Color and Wine Quality
Authors: Uzun Bayraktar Tuba
Published: January 2025

This study was conducted on the Sinceri grape variety in 2023. Three applications (35%, 55% and 75% net shadows) and a control were applied in the experiment. The shading materials were covered over the vines when the grapes were at veraison. The effects of the applied net shadows on the grape yield, color parameters of the berry skin and physicochemical analyses in the must were examined. In addition, some chemical analyses [such as pH, ethyl alcohol (%), volatile acidity (mg/L), reducing sugar (g/L), density and total acidity (g/L)], secondary metabolites, color parameters and sensory analyses were performed in wines produced spontaneously by the microvinification method. In terms of the yield parameters, the 55% net shadow application provided a 61.93% increase in grape yield, 37.83% increase in cluster weight and 35.76% increase in 100-berries weight compared to the control. While the L* value and Hue angle increased, the a* value, b* value and Chroma value decreased as the proportion of shading material increased. In the must, the must yield and total acidity increased while the TSSC, maturity index and density decreased. In terms of the physicochemical wine analysis (ethyl alcohol, density, total phenolic compound and antioxidant amount) and sensory evaluations, the best result was given by 75% net shadow and, in terms of wine color parameters, by 55% net shadow application.
Comprehensive Genetic Analysis of Edible-Podded Pea Genotypes: Variability, Heritability, and Multivariate Approach Across Two Agro-Climatic Zones in India
Authors: Yadav Saurabh , Dhall Rajinder Kumar , Singh Hira , Kumar Parteek , Sharma Priti , Kumar Pradeep , Kumari Priyanka , Rana Neha
Published: January 2025

Evaluating genetically superior genotypes is essential for developing new hybrid varieties. This study aimed to assess the genetic diversity of 28 edible-podded pea genotypes by analyzing phenological traits, vigor, yield, and biochemical traits across two distinct agro-climatic zones in India. Significant variation was observed for most traits, with high genotypic and phenotypic coefficients of variation, heritability, and genetic advance, especially in vigor, yield, and biochemical traits. Phenological traits, except for the node at which the first flower appeared, exhibited minimal variability, indicating a high degree of uniformity. Yield per plant was negatively correlated with plant height but positively correlated with pod length, the number of seeds per pod, the number of pods per plant, and pod weight, indicating the potential for the simultaneous selection of these traits in breeding programs. Principal component analysis (PCA) identified six components explaining over 75% of the total variation, with yield and biochemical traits contributing the most to the observed diversity. These findings provide crucial insights for breeders aiming to improve quantitative traits, supporting the development of high-yielding and climate-resilient edible-podded pea varieties in India.
Rooting for Resilience: Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungi (AMF) Boost Citrus Tolerance to Water Scarcity in Rangpur Lime and Carrizo Citrange Rootstocks
Authors: Hussain Sajjad , Jan Mehwish , Khalid Muhammad Fasih , Haider Sakeena Tul-Ain , Ali Muhammad Arif , Ahmad Shakeel , Sabir Samreen , Sétamou Mamoudou , Morillon Raphael
Published: January 2025

Fruits and vegetables play a crucial role in addressing food security challenges posed by the growing global population. Citrus fruits are among the most widely cultivated crops worldwide; however, their production is steadily declining due to climate change. Among the various biotic and abiotic stresses affecting citrus production, water scarcity caused by climate change stands out as a significant issue. Interestingly, the rhizosphere of citrus plants is home to beneficial fungi known as arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). AMF have been shown to enhance the growth and development of host plants. They also improve the plants’ tolerance to various stresses and enhance soil structure. This study aimed to evaluate the response of two different citrus rootstocks—Rangpur lime and Carrizo citrange—when subjected to three mycorrhizal treatments, namely, AMF+ (inoculated with AMF), AMF- (treated with fungicide to eliminate AMF), and a control (naturally occurring AMF), under conditions of water deficit. The results indicated that the AMF+ treatment had a significant positive effect on both rootstock genotypes compared to the AMF- treatment. Physiological attributes such as photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, non-photochemical quenching, and both dark and light quantum yield exhibited significantly smaller declines under water deficit conditions in AMF+ plants compared to those in the AMF- and control groups. Conversely, stress indicators—such as malondialdehyde (MDA) and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)—increased significantly in the AMF- treatment compared to AMF+. Additionally, the increase in antioxidative enzymes (superoxide dismutase (SOD), peroxidase (POD), catalase (CAT), and ascorbate peroxidase (APx) and osmotic adjustment (proline (PRO)) was more pronounced in the AMF+ treatment in the leaves and roots of both citrus rootstocks. In conclusion, the findings suggest that the presence and application of AMF in citrus roots may enhance the plants’ ability to cope with water scarcity more effectively.
Comparison of Precipitation Rates from Global Datasets for the Five-Year Period from 2019 to 2023
Authors: Hartmann Heike
Published: January 2025

Precipitation is a fundamental component of the hydrologic cycle and is an extremely important variable in meteorological, climatological, and hydrological studies. Reliable climate information including accurate precipitation data is essential for identifying precipitation trends and variability as well as applying hydrologic models for purposes such as estimating (surface) water availability and predicting flooding. In this study, I compared precipitation rates from five reanalysis datasets and one analysis dataset—the European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts Reanalysis Version 5 (ERA-5), the Japanese 55-Year Reanalysis (JRA-55), the Modern-Era Retrospective Analysis for Research and Applications Version 2 (MERRA-2), the National Center for Environmental Prediction/National Center for Atmospheric Research Reanalysis 1 (NCEP/NCAR R1), the NCEP/Department of Energy Reanalysis 2 (NCEP/DOE R2), and the NCEP/Climate Forecast System Version 2 (NCEP/CFSv2)—with the merged satellite and rain gauge dataset from the Global Precipitation Climatology Project in Version 2.3 (GPCPv2.3). The latter was taken as a reference due to its global availability including the oceans. Monthly mean precipitation rates of the most recent five-year period from 2019 to 2023 were chosen for this comparison, which included calculating differences, percentage errors, Spearman correlation coefficients, and root mean square errors (RMSEs). ERA-5 showed the highest agreement with the reference dataset with the lowest mean and maximum percentage errors, the highest mean correlation, and the smallest mean RMSE. The highest mean and maximum percentage errors as well as the lowest correlations were observed between NCEP/NCAR R1 and GPCPv2.3. NCEP/DOE R2 showed significantly higher precipitation rates than the reference dataset (only JRA-55 precipitation rates were higher), the second lowest correlations, and the highest mean RMSE.
Impact of Middle-Aged Adults’ Recognition of Early Myocardial Infarction Symptoms and Training Experience on Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation Performance: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Ryu Dajung
Published: January 2025

Despite the increasing incidence of myocardial infarction among middle-aged adults, studies analyzing their recognition of early myocardial infarction symptoms and cardiopulmonary resuscitation training experiences are lacking. This study aimed to utilize data from the 2022 Korea Community Health Survey to assess the level of recognition of early myocardial infarction symptoms among middle-aged adults and identify factors affecting cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance based on training experiences. Secondary data analysis was conducted to assess 99,945 adults aged 40–64 years on their recognition of early myocardial infarction symptoms and the influence of cardiopulmonary resuscitation training experience on their performance ability. Data analysis was performed using multinomial logistic regression, followed by assessing the area under the curve and visualizing the receiver operating characteristic curve to evaluate the model’s performance. The recognition of early myocardial infarction symptoms improved; the cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance ability increased by 22%. The absence of training with mannequins and automated external defibrillators resulted in a 79% and 77% decrease in cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance ability, respectively. Enhancing the recognition of early myocardial infarction symptoms and providing hands-on cardiopulmonary resuscitation training is vital for improving cardiopulmonary resuscitation performance in middle-aged adults. Effective cardiopulmonary resuscitation training programs can facilitate the rapid identification of patients who have had a cardiac arrest, bolster emergency response capabilities, and enhance the overall social safety net.
The Neural Correlates of Body Image Processing in Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa: An Activation Likelihood Estimation Meta-Analysis of fMRI Studies
Authors: Norrlin Lara , Baumann Oliver
Published: January 2025

Body image concerns are key prognostic and pathogenic factors of anorexia nervosa (AN) and bulimia nervosa (BN). This study aimed to investigate the neural mechanisms underlying body image perception across its two domains of estimation and satisfaction in anorexia and bulimia patients and healthy controls (HC). Systematic searches were conducted across eight databases, including PubMed; Cochrane Library; Ovid; Google Scholar; Sage Journals; Scopus; PsycInfo; and ScienceDirect, from database inception until the 23rd of April 2023. The sample pertained to 14 functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies and 556 participants, with tasks primarily including image and silhouette-based body estimation and satisfaction paradigms. ALE meta-analysis was conducted to investigate significant clusters of activation foci across the different studies. Shared activations were observed between HC, AN, and BN patients in cortical regions related to object manipulation and recognition, visuospatial awareness, and memory and negative affect regulation. Differential activation in interoceptive and higher-order cognitive or affective control regions likely hold the key to pathological body distortion. This study outlined commonalities and differences in the correlates driving healthy body mapping and eating disorder pathology. Our findings provide pertinent implications for future research, current clinical interventions, and therapeutic outcomes.
Potential Regulation of ARID1A by miR-129-5p and miR-3613-3p and Their Prognostic Value in Gastric Cancer
Authors: Bure Irina V. , Vetchinkina Ekaterina A. , Kalinkin Alexey I. , Kuznetsova Ekaterina B. , Molchanov Artem D. , Kiseleva Alevtina E. , Alekseeva Ekaterina A. , Gorokhovets Neonila V. , Rodionov Ivan V. , Nemtsova Marina V.
Published: January 2025

Gastric cancer (GC) remains the most common malignant tumor of the gastrointestinal tract and one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths worldwide. Non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs), including microRNAs (miRNAs), are involved in the pathogenesis and progression of GC and, therefore, may be potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarkers. Our work was aimed at investigating the predicted regulation of ARID1A by miR-129-5p and miR-3613-3p and the clinical value of their aberrant expression in GC. The study included tumor and adjacent non-tumor tissues from 110 GC patients, 38 sectional normal gastric tissue samples, as well as 65 plasma samples of GC patients and 49 plasma samples of healthy donors. Expression levels of ARID1A and both miRNAs were quantified by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). We have identified significant associations of their expression with the clinical and pathological characteristics of GC patients both in tissues and plasma. To validate predicted target pairs miR-129-5p/ARID1A and miR-3613-3p/ARID1A, in vitro experiments on cancer cell lines were conducted. The obtained results suggest a complex role of ARID1A, miR-129-5p and miR-3613-3p in GC and potential regulation of ARID1A expression by both miRNAs.
NAFLD and NAFLD Related HCC: Emerging Treatments and Clinical Trials
Authors: Khare Tripti , Liu Karina , Chilambe Lindiwe Oslee , Khare Sharad
Published: January 2025

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), recently renamed metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), is the most prevalent liver disease worldwide. It is associated with an increased risk of developing hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in the background of cirrhosis or without cirrhosis. The prevalence of NAFLD-related HCC is increasing all over the globe, and HCC surveillance in NAFLD cases is not that common. In the present review, we attempt to summarize promising treatments and clinical trials focused on NAFLD, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), and HCC in the past five to seven years. We categorized the trials based on the type of intervention. Most of the trials are still running, with only a few completed and with conclusive results. In clinical trial NCT03942822, 25 mg/day of milled chia seeds improved NAFLD condition. Completed trial NCT03524365 concluded that Rouxen-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) or sleeve gastrectomy (SG) results in histological resolution of NASH without worsening of fibrosis, while NCT04677101 validated sensitivity/accuracy of blood biomarkers in predicting NASH and fibrosis stage. Moreover, trials with empagliflozin (NCT05694923), curcuvail (NCT06256926), and obeticholic acid (NCT03439254) were completed but did not provide conclusive results. However, trial NCT03900429 reported effective improvement in fibrosis by at least one stage, without worsening of NAFLD activity score (NAS), as well as improvement in lipid profile of the NASH patients by 80 or 100 mg MGL-3196 (resmetirom). Funded by Madrigal Pharmaceuticals, Rezdiffra (resmetirom), used in the clinical trial NCT03900429, is the first FDA-approved drug for the treatment of NAFLD/NASH.
Macrophage Polarization: Learning to Manage It 3.0
Authors: Lampiasi Nadia
Published: January 2025

Macrophages are cells of the innate immune system with very peculiar characteristics, so plastic that they respond rapidly to environmental changes by assuming different and sometimes contrasting functions, such as initiating a physiological inflammatory response or interrupting it and repairing damaged tissues [...]
Impact of Ultraviolet C Radiation on Male Fertility in Rats: Suppression of Autophagy, Stimulation of Gonadotropin-Inhibiting Hormone, and Alteration of miRNAs
Authors: Alahwany Ahmed Mohamed , Arisha Ahmed Hamed , Abdelkhalek Adel , Khamis Tarek , Miyasho Taku , Kirat Doaa
Published: January 2025

While ultraviolet C (UVC) radiation has beneficial applications, it can also pose risks to living organisms. Nevertheless, a detailed assessment of UVC radiation’s effects on mammalian male reproductive physiology, including the underlying mechanisms and potential protective strategies, has not yet been accomplished. This study aimed to examine the critical roles of oxidative stress, autophagy, reproductive hormonal axis, and microRNAs in UVC-induced reproductive challenges in male rats. Semen, biochemical, molecular, and in silico analyses revealed significant dysregulation of testicular steroidogenesis, impaired spermatogenesis, deteriorated sperm quality, and altered reproductive hormonal profiles, which ultimately lead to a decline in fertility in male rats exposed to UVC radiation. Our data indicated that the suppression of autophagy, stimulation of gonadotropin-inhibiting hormone (GnIH), and alteration of microRNAs serve as key mediators of UVC-induced stress effects in mammalian reproduction, potentially contributing to male infertility. Targeting these pathways, particularly through pretreatment with hesperidin (HES), offers a promising strategy to counteract UVC-induced male infertility. In conclusion, the present findings emphasize the importance of understanding the molecular mechanisms behind UVC-induced male infertility and offer valuable insights into the protective mechanisms and prospective role of HES in safeguarding male reproductive health.
Systematic Approach to Negative Fukui Functions: Its Association with Nitro Groups in Aromatic Systems
Authors: Zamora Yates Pedro Pablo , Bieger Klaus
Published: January 2025

Fukui functions are related to electron densities, and their interpretation permits the determination of reactivity of atomic centres. However, negative values cannot be interpreted by an “electron density based” model and represent a phenomenon that has been little investigated and understood. Previous works in the literature suggest that they are related to nodes in the wave function. In our investigations we can relate negative values to nitro groups and their position on aromatic systems, as it is a moiety with HOMO electron densities close to “0” related to “electron attracting” groups. This work can help us understand and predict this phenomenon and the associated chemical reactivities. We also pay attention to the influence of the nitro group angle vs. the aromatic ring.
Recent Advances in Ophthalmic Interventions: Exploring Innovations in Myopia, Cataract Surgery, and Visual Function
Authors: Negishi Kazuno
Published: January 2025

As our understanding of ophthalmic optics and visual function advances, the intersection between clinical practice and technological innovation becomes increasingly significant in enhancing patient outcomes [...]
From Symptoms to Satisfaction: Optimizing Patient-Centered Care in Dry Eye Disease
Authors: Villani Edoardo , Barabino Stefano , Giannaccare Giuseppe , Di Zazzo Antonio , Aragona Pasquale , Rolando Maurizio
Published: January 2025

Dry eye disease (DED) is a multifactorial, chronic, and often relapsing condition with a significant impact on patient quality of life (QoL). Symptoms such as ocular discomfort and visual disturbances are diverse and frequently misaligned with objective clinical signs, complicating diagnosis and management. DED not only interferes with daily activities like reading, driving, and computer use but also imposes a substantial economic burden due to direct healthcare costs and reduced work productivity. Beyond its ocular manifestations, DED has been associated with higher prevalence rates of depression and anxiety, with a complex bidirectional relationship. Patients with DED may experience psychological distress that exacerbates symptoms, leading to a vicious cycle that further impairs QoL. This underscores the importance of integrating mental health screening into the management of DED, particularly for high-risk populations. Optimizing the care of DED patients requires empathy, effective communication, and the establishment of a therapeutic alliance that acknowledges patient experiences and involves them in personalized treatment plans. Such an approach can improve patient satisfaction, enhance treatment adherence, and address both ocular and psychological dimensions of the disease. This paper highlights current evidence on the impact of DED symptoms and its association with mental health and recommends strategies to improve clinical management through a patient-centered approach.
Rehabilitation Progress in Patients Following Surgery for Acute Stanford Type A Aortic Dissection Extending Beyond the Ascending Aorta
Authors: Nowak Joanna , Listewnik Mariusz , Rył Aleksandra , Pacholewicz Jerzy , Rotter Iwona
Published: January 2025

Background: The objective of this study was to assess the course of rehabilitation of patients hospitalized in the cardiac rehabilitation unit after surgery for acute Stanford type A aortic dissection, extending beyond the ascending aorta, and comparing these findings with those for patients who, after the same type of surgery, had no remaining dissection. The aim was to develop an optimal cardiac rehabilitation model for this patient population, given the lack of clear guidelines. Additionally, the study aimed to evaluate their one-year survival. Methods: The study included patients referred to the cardiac rehabilitation unit after surgery for acute Stanford type A aortic dissection extending beyond the ascending aorta (a total of 25 patients). The study group was compared with a cohort of patients (a total of 58) who underwent similar cardiac surgery. The main difference was the absence of residual aortic dissection. All patients were assessed on admission to the cardiac rehabilitation unit and at discharge using the 6-min walk test and the Tinetti test. All patients underwent 2–3 weeks of rehabilitation following the same protocol; however, the study group had significantly reduced exercise loads. Results: Patients in the study group were admitted to the cardiac rehabilitation unit in a significantly worse functional status compared to the comparison group, but the final assessment showed comparable results for the Tinetti test and the 6-min walk test. There were no differences in one-year survival between the two groups. Conclusions: Early postoperative cardiac rehabilitation in patients after acute aortic dissection significantly improves the functional status of this patient group, and is safe.
Clinical Advances in the Diagnosis and Treatment of Cerebrovascular Diseases
Authors: Lak Asad , Zanaty Mario
Published: January 2025

The management of cerebrovascular diseases has significantly evolved over the last decade or so [...]
Study of the Interplay Among Melt Morphology, Rheology and 3D Printability of Poly(Lactic Acid)/Poly(3-Hydroxybutyrate-Co-3-Hydroxyvalerate) Blends
Authors: Costantini Marco , Cognini Flavio , Angelini Roberta , Alfano Sara , Villano Marianna , Martinelli Andrea , Bolzonella David , Rossi Marco , Barbetta Andrea
Published: January 2025

Polymeric materials made from renewable sources that can biodegrade in the environment are attracting considerable attention as substitutes for petroleum-based polymers in many fields, including additive manufacturing and, in particular, Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM). Among the others, poly(hydroxyalkanoates) (PHAs) hold significant potential as candidates for FDM since they meet the sustainability and biodegradability standards mentioned above. However, the most utilised PHA, consisting of the poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) homopolymer, has a high degree of crystallinity and low thermal stability near the melting point. As a result, its application in FDM has not yet attained mainstream adoption. Introducing a monomer with higher excluded volume, such as hydroxyvalerate, in the PHB primary structure, as in poly(hydroxybutyrate-co-valerate) (PHBV) copolymers, reduces the degree of crystallinity and the melting temperature, hence improving the PHA printability. Blending amorphous poly(lactic acid) (PLA) with PHBV enhances further PHA printability via FDM. In this work, we investigated the printability of two blends characterised by different PLA and PHBV weight ratios (25:75 and 50:50), revealing the close connection between blend microstructures, melt rheology and 3D printability. For instance, the relaxation time associated with die swelling upon extrusion determines the diameter of the extruded filament, while the viscoelastic properties the range of extrusion speed available. Through thoroughly screening printing parameters such as deposition speed, nozzle diameter, flow percentage and deposition platform temperature, we determined the optimal printing conditions for the two PLA/PHBV blends. It turned out that the blend with a 50:50 weight ratio could be printed faster and with higher accuracy. Such a conclusion was validated by replicating with remarkable fidelity high-complexity objects, such as a patient’s cancer-affected iliac crest model.
Unveiling the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Berlengas Archipelago in Portugal as a Hotspot of Fish Species Using eDNA Metabarcoding and the Collaboration of Fishing Crews
Authors: Simões Marco , Costa Cátia , da Luz Calado Maria , Vasco-Rodrigues Nuno , Campos Maria Jorge , Leandro Sérgio Miguel , Antunes Agostinho
Published: January 2025

Managing fishery resources is crucial to ensure the marine environment continues to provide diverse goods and services. To overcome difficulties of classical methods used for fish stock management, molecular tools have shown potential to address this issue assessing both targeted and non-targeted species. This study aims to evaluate the spatiotemporal diversity of fish using 12S rRNA gene eDNA metabarcoding sequencing in the Berlengas archipelago and compare two seawater eDNA sampling sources: samples collected by fishermen during their activities and those collected by our research team. The results indicated that autumn presented the highest diversity and that the area around Berlenga Island was the richest area, increasing biodiversity across the region. Fisher-collected samples were generally less diverse than those by the research team but detected species typical of deeper and open-ocean habitats, validating this sampling method. Our study also highlighted eDNA’s role in monitoring fish species by detecting unexpected species for the region, such as Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua), while cautioning against false positives like orange clownfish (Amphiprion percula) and blue tilapia (Oreochromis aureus). Future optimisation of our eDNA sampling methodology could better refine marine ecosystem dynamics around the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve of the Berlengas Archipelago, Portugal.
The Factuality of News on Twitter According to Digital Qualified Audiences: Expectations, Perceptions, and Divergences with Journalism Considerations
Authors: Rojas Torrijos José Luis , Garrote Fuentes Álvaro
Published: January 2025

This research analyzes to what extent qualified digital audiences perceive, understand, and value the factuality of news published by news media within a communicative ecosystem where unverified information proliferates on social media. Additionally, it examines which factors may influence what highly educated and critically capable information audiences expect to find when consuming journalism. A qualitative, comparative study was conducted from a sample obtained of the ten most relevant statements on socio-political topics with the highest number of interactions published on the Twitter (X) accounts of six European digital and legacy media (Médiapart and Le Monde, France; Tortoise and The Guardian, United Kingdom; El Diario.es and El País, Spain), along with their reflection and development on the respective websites. With an expanded analytical scope to 300 tweet-news items (n = 300), two in-person focus groups were held at the College of Europe in Natolin (Poland) with postgraduate students from nine countries to assess their perception of the degree of truthfulness, bias, quality, and credibility of the displayed information. The results indicate that young, qualified digital audiences feel secure and capable of detecting any disinformation disorder. They value the variety of mentioned and verifiable sources, the presence of expert voices, and data-based claims as key elements in constructing credible media narratives.
Outcomes of Patients with Postoperative Acute Kidney Injury After Acute Type A Aortic Dissection Repair
Authors: Samanidis George , Kolovou Kyriaki , Kanakis Meletios , Katsaridis Sotirios , Perreas Konstantinos
Published: January 2025

Introduction: Acute type A aortic dissection (ATAAD) repair is associated with high morbidity postoperatively. The aim of this study is to evaluate the incidence and risk factors for acute kidney injury in patients who underwent ATAAD repair. Patients and Methods: Two hundred and twenty-three patients underwent ATAAD repair. Postoperative acute kidney injury (AKI) was evaluated according to the Kidney Disease—Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) criteria. Results: Postoperative AKI was observed in 140 patients (62.8%). The patients with postoperative AKI classified by KDIGO stages: 1 = 53 (23.8%), 2 = 36 (16.1%), and 3 = 51 (22.9%) patients. Twenty-eight patients (12.6%) underwent replacement renal therapy due to severe renal impairment (KDIGO stage 3). Multivariable logistic regression analysis (adjusted to risk factors) showed that preoperative eGFR was the risk factor for postoperative RRT (odds ratio (OR) = 0.95, 95% CI: 0.92–0.97, p < 0.01). The lengths of hospital and intensive care-unit stay differed between the patients with and without postoperative RRT (p < 0.001 for both). Postoperative RRT was associated with 30-day mortality (10.3% versus 35.7%, p < 0.001). Conclusions: Postoperative AKI was associated with high morbidity and mortality rate in patients after ATAAD repair.
In Situ Fixation and Intertrochanteric Osteotomy for Severe Slipped Capital Femoral Epiphysis Following Femoral Neck Fracture: A Case Report with Application of Virtual Surgical Planning and 3D-Printed Patient-Specific Instruments
Authors: Trisolino Giovanni , Menozzi Grazia Chiara , Depaoli Alessandro , Schmidt Olaf Stefan , Ramella Marco , Viotto Marianna , Todisco Marco , Mosca Massimiliano , Rocca Gino
Published: January 2025

Background: Femoral neck fractures are rare but serious injuries in children and adolescents, often resulting from high-energy trauma and prone to complications like avascular necrosis (AVN) and nonunion. Even rarer is the development of slipped capital femoral epiphysis (SCFE) following femoral neck fracture, which presents unique diagnostic and treatment challenges. SCFE can destabilize the femoral head, with severe cases requiring complex surgical interventions. Case presentation: This report details a case of a 15-year-old male with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) who developed severe SCFE one month after treatment for a Delbet type III femoral neck fracture. The condition was managed with an Imhäuser intertrochanteric osteotomy (ITO), in situ fixation (ISF), and osteochondroplasty (OChP), supported by virtual surgical planning (VSP) and 3D-printed patient-specific instruments (PSIs) for precise correction and fixation. Discussion: The surgery was completed without complications. Six months after the operation, the patient exhibited a pain-free, mobile hip with radiographic evidence of fracture healing and no signs of AVN. Functional outcomes were favorable despite rehabilitation challenges due to ASD. Conclusions: The Imhäuser ITO, combined with ISF and OChP, effectively addressed severe SCFE after femoral neck fracture, minimizing AVN risk. VSP and PSIs enhanced surgical accuracy and efficiency, demonstrating their value in treating rare and complex pediatric orthopedic conditions.
Assessing the Impact of Land-Based Anthropogenic Activities on the Macrobenthic Community in the Intertidal Zones of Anmyeon Island, South Korea
Authors: Liang Jian , Huang Hai-Rui , Shu Meng-Yuan , Ma Chae-Woo
Published: January 2025

Anthropogenic activities, particularly land reclamation and industrialization, have severely damaged South Korea’s intertidal zones, resulting in a decline in biodiversity. In our study, we assessed the macrobenthic community in the intertidal zone of Anmyeon Island, South Korea, and used remote sensing to evaluate the impact of anthropogenic activities on the adjacent land areas. Spearman and Principal Coordinate Analysis (PCoA) indicated that the remote-sensing ecological index (RSEI) is a viable indicator for assessing the dissimilarity of macrobenthic communities in these zones. Moreover, biota–environment matching (BIO–ENV) and distance-based redundancy analysis (dbRDA) demonstrated that land cover types significantly influence the macrobenthic communities in nearby intertidal zones. Our study suggested that urbanization and agricultural activities have affected the terrestrial ecological environment and the adjacent intertidal communities. Consequently, the protection of these zones should extend beyond their borders to include the management of anthropogenic activities on adjacent lands. Our research contributes valuable insights to help inform conservation strategies and the policy-making necessary to safeguard South Korea’s intertidal zones.
Distribution, Risk Assessment, and Quantitative Source Analysis of Soil Heavy Metals in a Typical Agricultural City of East-Central China
Authors: Du Wenyue , Zeng Peng , Yu Shi , Liu Fan , Sun Ping’an
Published: January 2025

The land use in agricultural areas contributes to economic growth while concurrently accompanied by a series of environmental pollution issues. Xingguo County, Ganzhou City, Jiangxi Province, is a typical agricultural area with selenium-rich soil, and the rice and navel oranges grown there have high nutritional value. This study analyzed the distribution of heavy metals in the soil of this area through the kriging interpolation method, evaluated the risks of heavy metals in the soil using different pollution index methods, and quantitatively analyzed their sources using principal component analysis (PCA) and positive matrix factorization (PMF), with the aim of protecting the ecological resources of this area and providing theoretical references for avoiding heavy metal pollution of crops in the soil. The research results indicate the following: (1) Based on the background values of Ganzhou, Jiangxi Province, all heavy metals have caused pollution to the soil except for As and Hg, among which Cd poses the highest potential ecological risk in the study area. According to the values of the Environmental Quality Standards for Soil (EQSS), the concentrations of heavy metals have not exceeded the standards and have relatively low potential ecological risks. (2) In terms of health risks, all soil heavy metals basically do not bring non-carcinogenic risks but acceptable carcinogenic risks to adults and children, except for Cd. The carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of soil heavy metals for children are higher than those for adults, and the main exposure route is ingestion. Among different land use types, the carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risks of soil heavy metals in orchards are the highest. (3) Combining the kriging interpolation method and the PCA and PMF models, it can be determined that there are two main sources of heavy metals in the study area: one is natural and the other is anthropogenic. Among the anthropogenic sources, agricultural sources contribute the most to soil heavy metal pollution. Through these research results, it can be found that soil heavy metal detection should be conducted in agricultural land, and risk-based management measures should be implemented.
Enhanced Tribological Properties of Ethylene Glycol-Based Lubricants by Nitrogen–Phosphorus Co-Doped Carbon Dots
Authors: Wang Haiyang , He Zhongyi , Qiu Kai , Xiong Liping , Li Lili , Liu Jian
Published: January 2025

In this study, we successfully synthesized two types of nitrogen–phosphorus co-doped carbon dots (CDs), namely 6NP-CDs and eNP-CDs, and incorporated them as additives into ethylene glycol-based lubricants. We systematically evaluated the effects of these CD additives on the tribological properties of the lubricants through four-ball friction experiments. The experimental results demonstrate that lubricants enhanced with the CDs exhibit significantly improved tribological properties compared to the base lubricant, particularly in terms of anti-wear performance. Notably, 6NP-CDs exhibited superior wear resistance and friction reduction at concentrations of 0.1 wt.% and 0.2 wt.%. Furthermore, increasing the concentration of eNP-CDs further reduced the friction coefficient of the base lubricant, and at its optimal concentration, it outperformed 6NP-CDs in terms of wear resistance and friction reduction. Molecular structure analysis indicates that the concentration of nitrogen and phosphorus atoms, as well as the chain length of functional groups, significantly influence friction characteristics. Specifically, a greater content of heteroatoms and longer chain lengths correlate with improved friction performance. The results suggest that incorporating 6NP-CDs and eNP-CDs into ethylene glycol-based lubricants can lead to significant enhancements in tribological performance under heavy loads.
Ultrasound-Assisted Synthesis of SnS2 Quantum Dots Using Acetone as Solvent
Authors: Matyszczak Grzegorz , Krawczyk Krzysztof , Yedzikhanau Albert , Jastrzębski Cezariusz , Dłużewski Piotr , Fidler Aleksandra , Płociński Tomasz , Lawniczak-Jablonska Krystyna , Wolska Anna , Drzewiecka-Antosik Aleksandra
Published: January 2025

A sonochemical synthesis of SnS2 quantum dots using acetone as a solvent is investigated. Two different tin sources (SnCl2∙2H2O or SnCl4∙5H2O) as well as two different sulfur sources (thioacetamide or Na2S2O3) were applied. The sonication time was also varied between 60 and 120 min. Resulting products of syntheses were characterized with the following techniques: powder X-ray diffraction, electron microscopy (SEM and HR-TEM), Raman and FT-IR spectroscopies, the Tauc method, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Obtained SnS2 nanostructures were in the form of quantum dots in the case of synthesis lasting 60 min (size of crystallites in the range of 3.5–7 nm) and in the form of elongated nanorods of length ca. 25–30 nm and width of 5–6 nm in the case of synthesis lasting 120 min. XPS analyses revealed that the surface of the obtained products contained a significant amount of tin at the second oxidation state (i.e., SnS). The quantum dots produced in the synthesis lasting 60 min showed a value of energy bandgap of 2.7 eV indicating potential applications in photocatalysis.
Preparation of Novel Slow-Release Acid Materials for Oilfield Development via Encapsulation
Authors: Sun Xinshu , Chen Chen , Li Mingxuan , Yao Yiming , Guo Baohua , Xu Jun
Published: January 2025

Acid-fracturing technology has been applied to form pathways between deep oil/gas resources and oil production pipelines. The acid fracturing fluid is required to have special slow-release performance, with no acidity at low temperatures, while steadily generating acid at high temperatures underground. At present, commercial acid systems in oilfields present problems such as the uncontrollable release effect, high costs, and significant pollution. In this research, we designed an innovative chloroformate material and investigated the release of the acid at various temperatures. This new chloroformate material reacts slowly with water at room temperature, and can completely react with water to form hydrochloric acid at high temperatures, without residual organic chlorine and other harmful substances; thus, it is suitable for use as an acid agent in oilfields. To isolate the acid-release core material from the outer water phase, we encapsulated the former with various materials, such as cross-linked polyacrylate or polystyrene, to obtain microcapsules. By slowly breaking and degrading the shell layer at a high temperature, the goal of no acid being released at low temperatures with slow acid generation at a high temperature was achieved. The microcapsules were prepared using radical polymerization and the phase separation method. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy, differential scanning calorimetry, chemical titration analysis, and other methods were used to characterize the structure and the sustained acid release of microcapsules. The results of thermogravimetry and other experiments showed that the prepared microcapsules successfully coated the chloroformate material. In contrast to the bare material, the slow-release performance of the microcapsules was significantly improved, and the continuous acid generating time was able to reach more than 10 h. Under optimum conditions, microcapsules with a uniform particle size with a sustained-release acid core were prepared, and the encapsulation efficiency reached up to 60%. Compared with traditional acid-release systems, the new system prepared in this study has better acid-release performance at high temperatures, while the product is both clean and convenient to use. Multiple important parameters, such as microcapsule particle size, can also be controlled by varying the experimental conditions to meet the needs of different oil/gas extraction environments. In summary, we prepared a promising new and efficient slow-release acid generation system, which has unique practical significance for optimizing current oilfield acid-fracturing technology.
Effect of Strengthening Mechanism of Alkali Curing on Mechanical Properties of Fly Ash Lightweight Aggregates and Its Concrete
Authors: Liu Jun , Xu Zhishan , Ji Yongsheng
Published: January 2025

The low hydration degree of fly ash in Fly Ash Unburned Lightweight Aggregate (FULA) is not conducive to the development of the mechanical properties of lightweight aggregates and their concrete. In this paper, FULA was immersed in an alkaline solution with the purpose of improving the mechanical properties of FULA and its concrete. Firstly, FULA was prepared using fly ash as the main raw material. The effect of the alkaline solution type and concentration on the basic properties of FULA was studied. Then, lightweight aggregate concrete was prepared using FULA as a coarse aggregate. The role of the aggregate category and water–cement ratio in the mechanical properties of concrete was analyzed. Finally, the effect of alkali curing on the interfacial transition zone of concrete was tested by combining an electron microscope and microhardness tester. Based on this, the strengthening mechanism of alkali curing on the mechanical properties of concrete was proposed. The results show that alkali curing can effectively improve the mechanical properties of FULA and its concrete. The microhardness of the interfacial transition zone of alkali curing FULA concrete is significantly higher than that of the cementite matrix, and the closer the aggregate, the higher the microhardness. The fundamental reason for this is that alkali curing improves the hydration degree of fly ash.
Mathematical Models of Grinding Forces in the Hob Cutter Sharpening Process
Authors: Witkowski Błażej , Stachurski Wojciech , Pawłowski Witold , Sikora Małgorzata , Kępczak Norbert
Published: January 2025

The article presents the results of research aimed at developing mathematical models for determining the components of grinding force occurring during the sharpening of the rake face of hob cutters. The development of the models was based on the results obtained during experimental tests conducted in the first stage of the research. The studies were carried out using a tool grinder and an aluminum oxide grinding wheel. During the tests, two components of the grinding force were measured, using a piezoelectric dynamometer. A sample made of HS6-5-2 high-speed steel was ground. Grinding was carried out using different sets of cutting parameters. Based on the obtained measurement results, two mathematical models were developed in the form of (1) a multiple regression function and (2) a polynomial function, enabling the calculation of the normal and the tangential force. The experimentally obtained results were then compared with those calculated based on the developed models, and the results of this comparison showed that the developed models provide a good basis for analyzing the sharpening process of hob cutters in terms of variable grinding parameters.
Hydrogen-Free Plasma Nitriding Process for Fabrication of Expanded Austenite Layer on AISI 316 Stainless Steel Surface
Authors: Hirano Mitsuhiro , Miura Koyo , Ohtsu Naofumi
Published: January 2025

The addition of hydrogen to nitrogen facilitates the formation of nitride phases in the plasma nitriding processes of stainless steels, though it also induces the deterioration of their mechanical properties. This study presents a hydrogen-free plasma nitriding process for fabricating a nitrogen-expanded austenite phase (γN) on an AISI 316 stainless steel surface. The steel substrate was nitrided in N2-Ar plasma with various gas compositions discharged by radio frequency (RF) and direct current (DC) modes. The process using the RF mode enabled the fabrication of a layer composed of a γN phase with a thickness of approximately 3 μm on the steel surface regardless of the gas composition, thereby enhancing its surface hardness. In contrast, such a layer was not observed in the DC mode, and the steel’s hardness was similar to that of the untreated surface. This difference in layer formation was attributed to the mitigation of surface etching by the Ar active species using the RF mode because of the lower bias voltage compared with that of the DC mode. This phenomenon suppresses the removal of the nitride phase formed during the process, which is a key factor contributing to nitrogen penetration. In conclusion, an N2-Ar plasma nitriding process using the RF mode is demonstrated to be a hydrogen-free process for fabricating a layer of a γN phase.
The Existence and Uniqueness of Nonlinear Elliptic Equations with General Growth in the Gradient
Authors: Alvino Angelo , Ferone Vincenzo , Mercaldo Anna
Published: January 2025

In this paper, we prove the existence and uniqueness results for a weak solution to a class of Dirichlet boundary value problems whose prototype is −Δpu=β|∇u|q+f in Ω, u=0 on ∂Ω, where Ω is a bounded open subset of RN, N≥2, 1<p<N, Δpu=div|∇u|p−2∇u, p−1<q<p, β is a positive constant and f is a measurable function satisfying suitable summability conditions depending on q and a smallness condition.