bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preoperative Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio as a Predictor of Clinical Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Femoral Endarterectomy
Authors: Yamamoto Yohei , Kazama Ai , Kikuchi Toru , Kudo Toshifumi
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the prognostic value of preoperative neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio (NLR) in patients with peripheral arterial disease (PAD) undergoing femoral endarterectomy. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of our institutional data, evaluating consecutive patients with PAD who underwent femoral endarterectomy between January 2013 and March 2023. The main objective was to assess the prognostic value of preoperative NLR for 5-year mortality. Additionally, we examined its relationship with perioperative clinicopathological features and 5-year major adverse limb events (MALEs). Results: During the study period, 200 consecutive patients underwent femoral endarterectomy. Of these, 128 patients with available NLR values within 30 days prior to surgery were analyzed. According to the receiver operating characteristic curve, the cut-off value of NLR was 4.0. Eighty-seven patients (68.0%) were assigned to the low-NLR group, and 41 patients (32.0%) to the high-NLR group. The frequency of postoperative complications did not differ significantly between the two groups. Freedom from MALEs up to five years was significantly lower in the high-NLR group (66.0% vs. 46.5%, p = 0.006). The overall survival rates were significantly lower in the high-NLR group (p < 0.001). At 1, 3, and 5 years, the survival rates in the low-NLR group were 96.4%, 91.6%, and 84.5%, respectively, while those in the high-NLR group were 84.2%, 59.5%, and 42.5%. Univariate analysis showed that cerebrovascular disease, end-stage renal disease, Rutherford category ≥ 4, a low albumin concentration (<3.5 g/dL), and a high NLR were significantly associated with 5-year mortality. Multivariate analysis indicated that a high NLR was the only independent factor associated with 5-year mortality. Conclusions: Preoperative NLR > 4.0 was significantly associated with 5-year rates of MALE and mortality in patients with symptomatic CFA occlusive disease who underwent femoral endarterectomy.
Validation of the OPTIMAL-Confidence Questionnaire in Patients with Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Nieto-Marcos Sonia , Álvarez-Álvarez María José , Ramón-Insunza Iván Antonio , García-Solís Leonor , Calvo-Arias María Mar , Pinto-Carral Arrate
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Low back pain is one of the most prevalent pathologies. Several studies relate its chronification to certain psycho-emotional characteristics, such as self-efficacy or the patient’s lack of confidence in the ability to move. Determine the reliability and validity of the OPTIMAL-confidence scale in people with chronic low back pain and describe the confidence in the movement capacity of this population. Methods: Design: A validation study was designed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the OPTIMAL-Confidence Questionnaire in a population with chronic low back pain. A descriptive observational study in a population with chronic low back pain and a healthy population was designed to describe the confidence in the movement capacity of the population with chronic low back pain. Settings: Health centers of primary care from a region of northwestern Spain. Participants: The final sample was 122 patients diagnosed with chronic low back pain. The sampling was completed with 30 additional healthy subjects. Instruments: OPTIMAL-confidence questionnaire, Numerical Pain Rating Scale, Chronic Pain Self-efficacy Scale, and ad hoc questionnaire to collect socio-demographic and clinical variables. Results: Cronbach’s alpha for the OPTIMAL-confidence questionnaire was 0.91. The association of OPTIMAL-confidence with the self-efficacy, pain intensity, and movement ability scales was moderate and significant (p < 0.001). Regarding the low back pain population, significant differences were observed in confidence levels according to age and the need for walking aids (p < 0.009). The OPTIMAL-confidence questionnaire also showed significant discrimination between the low back pain group and the no back pain group (p < 0.001). The confidence interval was 95%. Conclusions: The population with low back pain shows less confidence in their ability to perform movements, compared to the general population. OPTIMAL is an instrument that can discriminate between patients who present chronic low back pain and those who do not.
Ecological Stress Modeling to Conserve Mangrove Ecosystem Along the Jazan Coast of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al-Huqail Asma A. , Islam Zubairul , Al-Harbi Hanan F.
Published: January 2025

Mangrove ecosystems are increasingly threatened by climate change and coastal development, making precise ecological stress modeling essential for informing conservation strategies. This study employs AI-based classification techniques to classify mangroves using Landsat 8-SR OLI/TIRS sensors (2023) along the Jazan Coast, identifying a total mangrove area of 19.4 km2. The ensemble classifier achieved an F1 score of 95%, an overall accuracy of 93%, and a kappa coefficient of 0.86. Ecological stress was modeled via a generalized additive model (GAM) with key predictors, including trends in the NDVI, NDWIveg (vegetation water content), NDWIow (open water), and LST from 1991 to 2023, which were derived using surface reflectance (SR) products from Landsat 5 TM, Landsat 7 ETM+, and Landsat 8 OLI/TIRS sensors. The model exhibited strong performance, with an R2 of 0.89. Model diagnostics using linear regression (R2 = 0.86), a high F-statistic, minimal intercept, and 10-fold cross-validation confirmed the model’s robustness, with a consistent MSE (0.12) and cross-validated R2 of 0.86. Moran’s I analysis also indicated significant spatial clustering. Findings indicate that mangroves in non-ravine, mainland coastal areas experience more ecological stress from disruptions in freshwater and sediment supply due to recent developments. In contrast, island coastal areas exhibit low stress levels due to minimal human activity, except in dense canopy regions where significant stress, likely linked to climate change, was observed. These results underscore the need for further investigation into the drivers of this ecological pressure.
Spatial–Temporal Ontology of Indicators for Urban Landscapes
Authors: Sica Francesco , De Paola Pierfrancesco , Tajani Francesco , Doko Endriol
Published: January 2025

Urban development is increasingly scrutinized for its sustainability from an economic, social, and environmental viewpoint. This study emphasizes how important indicators are in capturing the complexity of urban settings when assessing urban landscapes and making sure that comprehensive development plans incorporate all these aspects. The work aim is to forward the investigation of the ontology of indicators related to urban sustainability, specifically, a framework for spatial and temporal analysis and an attempt to align terminology with the sustainability indicators of the ISO spectrum. The methodology encompasses three main phases: a systematic review of sustainability indicators from the scientific literature across various territorial scales; the mapping of individual indicators to their appropriate spatial–temporal measurement ranges; and the alignment of these spatially and temporally specific indicators with ISO standards. Focusing on the Italian context, this study establishes an ontological spatial–temporal framework. It analyzes ISO indicators that can be managed in Italian spatial settings. The main objective of this part of the research is to select through a critical analysis the most frequent indicators in order to be able to make an alignment and define those that aim more at the goals of the 2030 Agenda on sustainability. This innovative approach enhances urban issue awareness and supports informed decision-making by demonstrating how sustainability indicators can be effectively utilized in downscaling strategies to create a policy for the practical use of indicators.
Multivitamin Supplementation and Fertility Outcome: A Retrospective Single-Center Cohort Study and the Clinical and Medicolegal Value of Nutritional Counseling
Authors: Gullo Giuseppe , Zaami Simona , Streva Adriana Vita , Burgio Sofia , Billone Valentina , Kotlik Yulia , Chitoran Elena , Ganduscio Silvia , Baglio Giovanni , Perino Antonio , Cucinella Gaspare
Published: January 2025

Resveratrol can beneficially affect growth and follicle development and lead to improved sperm function parameters in pre-clinical studies, while information from clinical studies is still inconclusive. This study aims to evaluate the biological and clinical impact of a resveratrol-based multivitamin supplement on level II assisted reproduction cycles (IVF and intracytoplasmic sperm injection [ICSI]). A retrospective, case-control study, involving 70 infertile couples undergoing IVF/ICSI cycles, was conducted at the Assisted Reproductive Center, Obstetrics and Gynecology Unit-Villa Sofia-Cervello Hospital in Palermo. The study group underwent pre-treatment with a daily nutraceutical based on resveratrol, whereas the control group received 400 mcg/day of folic acid. Primary endpoints to be evaluated were the number of mature follicles developed (>16 mm), total oocytes and Metaphase II (MII) oocytes retrieved, fertilization rate, number of embryos/blastocysts obtained, and semen quality. Secondary objectives in our evaluation were the duration and dosage of gonadotropins, the starting dose, the number of blastocysts to be transferred and frozen, implantation rate, and, ultimately, biochemical and clinical pregnancy rates. In the study group, a significantly higher number of mature follicles, oocytes, and MII oocytes were collected compared to the control group. In the study group, a higher fertilization rate as well as higher numbers of cleavage embryos per patient, blastocysts per patient, and frozen blastocysts were obtained. In the study group, a shorter administration time and lower dosages of gonadotropins required to reach follicle maturity were also observed compared to controls, with fewer dose adjustments during stimulation compared to the starting dose. No significant differences were found in biochemical or clinical pregnancy rates. A 12-month period of dietary supplementation with a resveratrol-based multivitamin nutraceutical leads to better biological effects on ICSI cycles.
Influence of Na2SO4 Produced from Phosphogypsum Conversions on the Basic Properties of Building Gypsum
Authors: Vaičiukynienė Danutė , Mockienė Jūratė , Nizevičienė Dalia , Ramanauskas Ignas
Published: January 2025

This study comprises two distinct but interrelated parts. The first part involves optimizing the conditions for the conversion of phosphogypsum to a Ca(OH)2 and Na2SO4 solution. The second part focuses on enhancing the mechanical properties of gypsum through the use of a sodium sulphate additive derived from the conversion of phosphogypsum. An ultrasonic disperser was employed to accelerate the reaction between phosphogypsum and a sodium hydroxide solution. The mean dispersion time was found to be 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, and 2.0 min. The resulting product was a solution of calcium hydroxide and sodium sulfate. The impact of varying quantities of Na2SO4 on the compressive strength and density of building gypsum samples was investigated. An increase in the quantity of sodium sulphate from 0.2% to 2% resulted in a notable rise in the density of the building gypsum samples, from 1127 kg/m3 in the reference sample to 1264 kg/m3 in the sample containing 2% sodium sulphate. Therefore, in all instances, the utilization of the Na2SO4 additive in the gypsum samples resulted in elevated compressive strengths (4.8–8.6 MPa) in comparison to the reference sample devoid of this additive (1.6 MPa).
Financial Modeling of Common Institutional Ownership’s Governance Effect on Corporate Leverage Manipulation
Authors: Liu Shiqi , Wang Xiaoyu , Li Cong , Zhang Yuchen
Published: January 2025

Common institutional ownership, as a pivotal link of equity interconnection among diverse enterprises and a vital medium of information dissemination, possesses enhanced motivation and capability of decision-making in the course of business operation and development. This paper examines the effect of common institutional ownership on corporate leverage manipulation by applying panel data analysis method based on a sample of Chinese A-share listed companies from 2007 to 2021. We find that firms with high levels of common institutional ownership significantly reduce leverage manipulation. We also find that common institutional ownership can significantly reduce corporate leverage manipulation by improving internal capital management capabilities and external audit environment. At the same time, we find that the synergistic governance effect of common institutional equity has heterogeneity in the aspects of capacity utilization rate, equity nature, leverage manipulation motivation, and macro industry environment. These conclusions collectively highlight the important role of institutional cross-holdings in enhancing internal management levels and facilitating information transmission within the same industry. They also demonstrate that, under circumstances where internal agency problems are prominent, financial stress is high, and external risks are increasing, institutional cross-holdings play a supervisory and mitigating role in corporate financial management. This can not only contribute to the existing literature on the factors that positively constrain corporate leverage manipulation and the economic implications of common institutional ownership, but also has implications for how to enhance corporate governance and promote high-quality economic development in China’s context.
Variables Selection from the Patterns of the Features Applied to Spectroscopic Data—An Application Case
Authors: Romero-Béjar José L. , Esquivel Francisco Javier , Esquivel José Antonio
Published: January 2025

Spectroscopic data allows for the obtaining of relevant information about the composition of samples and has been used for research in scientific disciplines such as chemistry, geology, archaeology, Mars research, pharmacy, and medicine, as well as important industrial use. In archaeology, it allows the characterization and classification of artifacts and ecofacts, the analysis of patterns, the characterization and study of the exchange of materials, etc. Spectrometers provide a large amount of data, the so-called “big data” type, which requires the use of multivariate statistical techniques, mainly principal component analysis, cluster analysis, and discriminant analysis. This work is focused on reducing the dimensionality of the data by selecting a small subset of variables to characterize the samples and presents a mathematical methodology for the selection of the most efficient variables. The objective is to identify a subset of variables based on spectral features that allow characterization of the samples under study with the least possible errors when performing quantitative analyses or discriminations between different samples. The subset is not predetermined and, in each case, is obtained for each set of samples based on the most important features of the samples under study, which allows for a good fit to the data. The reduction of the number of variables to an important performance based on the previously chosen difference between features, with a great fit to the raw data. Thus, instead of 2151 variables, a minimum optimal subset of 32 valleys and 31 peaks is obtained for a minimum difference between peaks or between valleys of 20 nm. This methodology has been applied to a sample of minerals and rocks extracted from the ECOSTRESS 1.0 spectral library.
Healthcare Workers (HCWs)’ Perceptions and Current Practice of Managing Cognitively Impaired Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Authors: Siraj Rayan A.
Published: January 2025

Background and Objectives: Despite the significant impacts of cognitive impairment on patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), there is limited information available on healthcare workers’ (HCWs) perceptions, current practice, and barriers to managing COPD patients with cognitive impairment. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire was distributed to HCWs in Saudi Arabia between April and December 2023. The collected responses were analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models. Results: A total of 890 participants, including nursing, physical, and respiratory therapists, completed the online questionnaire. Over two-thirds of the study participants indicated not having sufficient knowledge or adequate training in managing cognitive impairment in patients with COPD. The majority of HCWs perceive cognitive impairment to underdiagnose COPD (83%), underestimate COPD severity (81%), exacerbate COPD symptoms (80%), and interfere with self-management (81%) and pulmonary rehabilitation (81%). However, less than 45% (n = 394) reported having the potential to recognise signs of cognitive impairment during patient encounters. Logistic regression analysis revealed that male healthcare practitioners were more likely to recognise cognitive impairment than females (OR: 1.48; 95% CI: 1.13 to 1.95; p < 0.001). Physical and respiratory therapists were more likely to identify cognitive impairment compared to nurses. Additionally, having more years of experience (≥10 years, OR: 1.63; 95% CI: 1.02 to 2.61; p = 0.001) and adequate knowledge of cognitive impairment (OR: 6.23; 95% CI: 4.18 to 9.29; p = 0.001) were strongly associated with better recognition. Confidence in managing cognitively impaired COPD patients was low, attributed to poor training (64%), inadequate knowledge (64%), and the absence of standardised procedures (58%). Conclusions: HCWs agreed upon the negative impacts associated with cognitive impairment in patients with COPD. However, the potential of recognising signs of cognitive impairment and confidently dealing with the existence of cognitive impairment in COPD is not optimal, owing to poor training and limited knowledge. A focus should be given to managing comorbidities alongside COPD.
Evaluating and Enhancing Museum Websites: Unlocking Insights for Accessibility, Usability, SEO, and Speed
Authors: Drivas Ioannis , Vraimaki Eftichia
Published: January 2025

The digital transformation of museums has elevated their websites from mere informational tools to dynamic platforms that foster cultural engagement, inclusivity, and preservation. This study evaluates the performance of 234 museum websites worldwide, focusing on critical dimensions such as accessibility, usability, SEO, and speed. By employing a comprehensive diagnostic framework of evaluation metrics, the research reveals disparities between mobile and desktop versions, highlights regional variations, and identifies key performance drivers. Generally, desktop sites outperform their mobile counterparts, underscoring the necessity for tailored optimization strategies that strike a balance between fast-loading, visually stable mobile pages and content-rich desktop experiences. A key contribution of this study is the development of an easy-to-adopt and inclusive evaluation framework that unites fragmented approaches, enabling museums of all sizes to enhance their digital presence. Furthermore, the research provides actionable insights for administrators, particularly those in resource-constrained institutions, through a cost-free, user-friendly toolkit that simplifies technical metrics and promotes internal staff capacity building in digital analytics. Ultimately, the findings help empower museums to bridge digital performance gaps while ensuring they continue to function as vibrant cultural hubs in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
Cadmium Tolerance and Detoxification Mechanisms of Lentinula edodes: Physiology, Subcellular Distribution, and Chemical Forms
Authors: Chen Gaigai , Han Bowen , Nan Wene , Dong Xiaobo
Published: January 2025

Lentinula edodes has a strong cadmium-enrichment ability, posing a potential threat to human health. However, the cadmium tolerance and detoxification mechanisms of Lentinula edodes are not understood. We investigated the physiological responses, subcellular distribution, and chemical forms of cadmium in two Lentinula edodes strains (1504 and L130) with contrasting cadmium tolerance. The results showed that appropriate, low-level cadmium promoted mycelial growth, and higher cadmium exposure induced obvious inhibition of mycelial growth by damaging the cell wall and membrane structure and triggering the overproduction of ROS. Antioxidant enzymes played an important role in cadmium detoxification, as well as functional group modulation. Cadmium was predominantly distributed in the cell wall fraction, and NaCl-extractable cadmium was the main chemical form. Enhanced antioxidant enzyme activities, reduced cadmium accumulation, and increased HAc-extractable cadmium with less toxicity promoted stronger cadmium tolerance and detoxification abilities in L130 compared to 1504. Thus, this study provides new insights into cadmium tolerance and detoxification in Lentinula edodes.
Infection-Related Stillbirths: A Detailed Examination of a Nine-Year Multidisciplinary Study
Authors: Gabrielli Liliana , Pavoni Matteo , Monari Francesca , Baiesi Pillastrini Federico , Bonasoni Maria Paola , Locatelli Chiara , Bisulli Maria , Vancini Alessandra , Cataneo Ilaria , Ortalli Margherita , Piccirilli Giulia , Cantiani Alessia , Ambretti Simone , Facchinetti Fabio , Lazzarotto Tiziana
Published: January 2025

Background: Although several conditions and specific risk factors have been associated with stillbirth (SB), in most of the cases it is difficult to identify the definitive etiopathology and cause of death. Specifically, the role of infections in SB is still debated. Our aim was to study maternal, placental, and fetal tissues in cases of SB in order to define the causative link between infections and fetal death, through a multidisciplinary clinical audit. Methods: Between 2014 and 2022, microbiological investigations on maternal, placental and fetal samples of SB cases were performed according to a standardized protocol including serology, cultures, and molecular biology. Autopsies and placental examination were mandatory in all SB cases. Results: A total of 182 cases of SB were investigated. Bacteria were detected in 22.2% of vaginal swabs, 65% of placental biopsies, 29% of fetal blood, and 14.1% of oropharyngeal swabs. Vaginal and oropharyngeal swabs were positive for urogenital mycoplasmas in 25.2% and 8.6%, respectively. Positive results of microbiological investigations, in association with histological features suggestive of infection, were observed in six cases, indicating that fetal death was likely related to a bacterial infection. In one case, a high SARS-CoV-2 load was found in the placenta of a SB due to placental abruption. Conclusions: Infections were likely associated with fetal death in 3.8% of cases. Thus, in developed countries, an infection, defined when positive microbiological findings are associated with histological evidence of organ damage, is a minor contributory factor in SB.
Synthesis and Antiviral Evaluation of 5-(4-Aryl-1,3-butadiyn-1-yl)-uridines and Their Phosphoramidate Pronucleotides
Authors: Saillard Evan , Bourzikat Otmane , Assa Koffi , Roy Vincent , Agrofoglio Luigi A.
Published: January 2025

The emergence of RNA viruses driven by global population growth and international trade highlights the urgent need for effective antiviral agents that can inhibit viral replication. Nucleoside analogs, which mimic natural nucleotides, have shown promise in targeting RNA-dependent RNA polymerases (RdRps). Starting from protected 5-iodouridine, we report the synthesis of hitherto unknown C5-substituted-(1,3-diyne)-uridines nucleosides and their phosphoramidate prodrugs. The modifications at C5 include 4-(trifluoromethyl)benzene (a), 4-pentyl-benzene (b), 3,5-dimethoxy-benzene (c), 4-(trifluoromethoxy)benzene (d), 3-aniline (e), 4-pyridine (f), 3-thiophene (g), C6H13 (h), 2-pyrimidine (i), cyclopropyl (j), and phenyl (k) groups. These compounds were synthesized using Sonogashira palladium-catalyzed reactions and nickel–copper-catalyzed C-H activation between various alkynes, yielding between 25% and 67%. The antiviral activities of obtained compounds were measured through HTS against RNA viruses including influenza H1N1 and H3N2, human respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), SARS-CoV-2, Zika, hepatitis C virus (HCV), Hepatitis E virus (HEV), as well as against coronavirus (HCoV-229E). Unfortunately, none of them showed promising antiviral activity, with less than 85% inhibition observed in the cell viability screening of infected cells.
Electrocatalytic and Photocatalytic N2 Fixation Using Carbon Catalysts
Authors: Xu Changchun , Su Hongli , Zhao Shuaifei , Nilghaz Azadeh , Tang Kunning , Ma Luxiang , Zou Zhuo
Published: January 2025

Carbon catalysts have shown promise as an alternative to the currently available energy-intensive approaches for nitrogen fixation (NF) to urea, NH3, or related nitrogenous compounds. The primary challenges for NF are the natural inertia of nitrogenous molecules and the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). Recently, carbon-based materials have made significant progress due to their tunable electronic structure and ease of defect formation. These properties significantly enhance electrocatalytic and photocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) activity. While transition metal-based catalysts have solved the kinetic constraints to activate nitrogen bonds via the donation-back-π approach, there is a problem: the d-orbital electrons of these transition metal atoms tend to generate H-metal bonds, inadvertently amplifying unwanted HER. Because of this, a timely review of defective carbon-based electrocatalysts for NF is imperative. Such a review will succinctly capture recent developments in both experimental and theoretical fields. It will delve into multiple defective engineering approaches to advance the development of ideal carbon-based electrocatalysts and photocatalysts. Furthermore, this review will carefully explore the natural correlation between the structure of these defective carbon-based electrocatalysts and photocatalysts and their NF activity. Finally, novel carbon-based catalysts are introduced to obtain more efficient performance of NF, paving the way for a sustainable future.
Watching Television While Eating Increases Food Intake: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Experimental Studies
Authors: Garg Dresshti , Smith Evelyn , Attuquayefio Tuki
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: Television viewing has been linked with increased weight and obesity, likely through decreased physical activity associated with sitting and viewing television, as well as increased intake of food, likely through reduced awareness of eating and intake behaviours. This review sought to determine the effects of television viewing on energy intake relative to the absence of television. Methods: We adhered to the PRISMA guidelines and pre-registered this review in PROSPERO (CRD42023493092). The PICOS strategy included children, adolescents and adults of all ages (P), exposed to television viewing only during meals (I) compared to no television and no other distractors (C), with the outcome as energy intake or consumption (O) for both within-subject and between-subject randomised controlled trial (RCT) designs (S). Results: Robust-variance meta-analyses of k = 57 effect sizes from 23 studies showed no overall effect, noting high heterogeneity. When analyses were limited to television alone with k = 29 effect sizes from 23 studies, we revealed a small significant effect of television viewing on intake (g = 0.13, 95% CI [0.03–0.24]) compared to no television. Moderation analysis showed that television viewing strongly increased intake at the next meal (g = 0.30, 95% CI [0.03–0.57]) but not immediate intake (g = 0.10, 95% CI [−0.01–0.21]). Conclusions: This review showed that television viewing increases food intake, especially at the next meal. This effect was evident across both children and adults. This review highlights how television viewing impacts intake and offers potential avenues for intervention based on our findings.
The Legal–Digital Metamorphosis of the Individual
Authors: Campione Roger
Published: January 2025

There is a hard relationship between law and techno-science; two powers that shape reality. In principle, these powers shape reality by acting as two poles of a battery, i.e., endowed with opposite charges: techno-science is a mechanism for overcoming the limits that human beings encounter in their relationship with nature; law, on the other hand, reveals its face by imposing limits on human action, which, by nature, is free of certain bonds. From a general point of view, certain unavoidable normative requirements seem clear in the effort to regulate new technological applications. Artificial intelligence poses new questions for legal theory and tests both the responsiveness of the system and the traditional and current conceptual categories. The challenge stems from the need to adapt the law, through normative or hermeneutic evolution, to a reality that is changing at a frenetic pace and with unpredictable mutations. All attempts to regulate AI to date have declared that scientific innovation must be brought within the framework of human rights. However, there is a question, rather a more general, I would even say preliminary, challenge to be faced without epistemic prejudice: do the applications of AI in any way affect the very meaning of the human? AI has a huge potential to improve the human condition (provided we can clarify what ’improve’ means) but, at the same time, increases, in terms of rights, unforeseen and unforeseeable challenges for existing treaties. This is due not only to the crisis of the legal dimension but also to the fact that its impact influences the notion of what we have hitherto conventionally considered as human beings.
Running Efficiency and Muscle Activation Are Unaffected by Knee Taping Techniques During Acute Treadmill Running
Authors: Moore Andrew R. , Landaverde Amador J. , Craig-Jones Andrew
Published: January 2025

Background/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to determine the effects of various muscle taping applications on running efficiency. Methods: Recreational runners (N = 14; 7 women; age = 22.80 ± 4.61 years; BMI = 25.08 ± 3.97 kg/m2) completed four bouts of treadmill running at a preferred speed. Each bout used a different taping technique, as follows: control (no tape), athletic tape, Kinesio tape, and a novel spring-type technique of Kinesio tape. Oxygen consumption, muscle activation of the rectus femoris and biceps femoris, and stride frequency were observed during each bout to assess running efficiency. The data for these variables were analyzed with repeated-measures ANOVAs (α = 0.05). Results: There were no differences among any of the four conditions for oxygen consumption (p = 0.232, η2 = 0.103), muscle activation of the rectus femoris (p = 0.173, η2 = 0.118) or biceps femoris (p = 0.085, η2 = 0.184), or stride frequency (p = 0.230, η2 = 0.107). Conclusions: None of the three taping methods tested in this study had a significant impact on oxygen consumption, agonist muscle activation, or stride frequency during short running bouts at a preferred speed compared to a control condition. There appeared to be no ergogenic benefit to the use of these taping techniques during this manner of activity. Runners opting to use a taping method to enhance joint stability at the knee during preferred-intensity running activity may do so without any substantial impact on their running efficiency.
In Vitro Rooting of Poplar: Effects and Metabolism of Dichlorprop Auxin Ester Prodrugs
Authors: Darouez Hajer , Werbrouck Stefaan P. O.
Published: January 2025

Efficient adventitious root formation is essential in micropropagation. Auxin prodrugs, inactive precursors that convert into active auxins within the plant, offer potentially improved rooting control and reduced phytotoxicity. This study investigated the efficacy of dichlorprop ester (DCPE), commercialized as Corasil® and Clemensgros® (originally intended to increase grapefruit size), in promoting in vitro root initiation in the model plant Populus × canadensis, compared to its hydrolyzed form DCP and the related compound C77. DCPE displayed a stronger root-inducing effect than DCP, especially at lower concentrations (0.01 and 0.1 µM). Notably, at 1 µM, both DCP and DCPE induced abundant aerial root formation, a phenomenon not previously observed in poplar with traditional auxin treatments. Metabolite analysis revealed distinct patterns. DCPE treatment resulted in rapid hydrolysis to DCP, leading to faster and more systemic distribution of the active auxin throughout the plant, compared to direct DCP application. C77 treatments showed slower uptake and limited translocation combined with slow metabolism to DCP. These results highlight the potential of auxin prodrugs like DCPE as an effective and controllable auxin source for optimizing in vitro rooting protocols in woody plant species.
A Molecularly Imprinted Electrochemical Sensor for Carbendazim Detection Based on Synergy Amplified Effect of Bioelectrocatalysis and Nanocomposites
Authors: Lian Wenjing , Zhang Xinyu , Han Yongbin , Li Xintong , Liu Hongyun
Published: January 2025

The highly selective and sensitive determination of pesticide residues in food is critical for human health protection. Herein, the specific selectivity of molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs) was proposed to construct an electrochemical sensor for the detection of carbendazim (CBD), one of the famous broad-spectrum fungicides, by combining with the synergistic effect of bioelectrocatalysis and nanocomposites. Gold nanoparticle-reduced graphene oxide (AuNP-rGO) composites were electrodeposited on a polished glassy carbon electrode (GCE). Then the MIP films were electropolymerized on the surface of the nanolayer using CBD as the template molecule and o-phenylenediamine (OPD) as the monomer. The detection sensitivity of CBD on the heterogeneous structure films was greatly amplified by AuNP-rGO composites and the bioelectrochemical oxidation of glucose, which was catalyzed by glucose oxidase (GOD) with the help of mediator in the underlying solution. The developed sensor showed high selectivity, good reproducibility, and excellent stability towards CBD with the linear range from 2.0 × 10−9 to 7.0 × 10−5 M, and the limit of detection (LOD) of 0.68 nM (S/N = 3). The expected system would provide a new idea for the development of simple and sensitive molecularly imprinted electrochemical sensors (MIESs).
Single-Site Catalyst for the Synthesis of Disentangled Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene
Authors: Chen Jian , Qu Shuzhang , Li Xinwei , Wei Yiming , Li Qian , Wen Zhao , Guo Zifang
Published: January 2025

Disentangled ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (d-UHMWPE) solves the problem of the difficult processing of traditional UHMWPE caused by entanglements between molecular chains. In this review, we look into the innovative realm of nascent disentangled UHMWPE, concentrating on the recent advances achieved through the in situ polymerization of ethylene by single-site catalysts. The effect of single-site catalysts and polymerization conditions on the molecular characteristics is discussed in detail from the perspective of mechanism and DFT calculations. The key factors to low entanglement are revealed, which have instructive implications for the development of new single-site catalytic systems that can generate d-UHMWPE more efficiently and become closer to industrial production. The progress in the preparation for nascent d-UHMWPE with homogeneous and heterogeneous single-site catalysts is systematically reviewed. Rheology and DSC can be used to characterize the degree of entanglement. High-modulus and high-strength biaxial films, tapes, and fibers are obtained by the solid-state processing of these nascent d-UHMWPE.
High-Strength and Rapidly Degradable Nanocomposite Yarns from Recycled Waste Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA)
Authors: Liu Ben , Wang Shixiao , Guo Hanling , Yin Huibo , Song Yuqiu , Gong Min , Zhang Liang , Lin Xiang , Wang Dongrui
Published: January 2025

Poly(glycolic acid) (PGA) is a rapidly degradable polymer mainly used in medical applications, attributed to its relatively high cost. Reducing its price will boost its utilization in a wider range of application fields, such as gas barriers and shale gas extraction. This article presents a strategy that utilizes recycled PGA as a raw material alongside typical carbon nanomaterials, such as graphene oxide nanosheets (GO) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs), to produce low-cost, fully degradable yarns via electrospinning and twisting techniques. The results demonstrate that the tensile strength of the PGA/GO composite yarn increased to 21.36 MPa, and the elastic modulus attained a value of 259.51 MPa with a 3 wt% of GO loading. The addition of an appropriate amount of GO enhances the tensile resistance of the composite yarns to a certain extent. However, excessive application of GO and CNTs can lead to surface defects in the nanofibers, reducing their mechanical properties. Moreover, the integration of both materials could inhibit the degradation process of PGA to some extent, thereby partially addressing the issue of excessive degradation rates associated with the relatively low molecular weight of recycled PGA.
Staggered Design of UV–Curable Polymer Microneedle Arrays with Increased Vertical Action Space
Authors: Jia Baoling , Xia Tiandong , Xu Yangtao , Li Bei
Published: January 2025

Recent studies have identified microneedle (MN) arrays as promising alternatives for transdermal drug delivery. This study investigated the properties of novel staggered MN arrays design featuring two distinct heights of MNs. The staggered MN arrays were precisely fabricated via PμSL light-cured 3D printing technology. The arrays were systematically evaluated for their morphology, fracture force, skin penetration ability, penetration mechanism, and drug delivery capability. The results demonstrated that the staggered MN arrays punctured the skin incrementally, leveraging the benefits of skin deformation during the puncture process. This approach effectively reduced the puncture force needed, achieving a maximum reduction of approximately 80.27% due to variations in the staggered height. Additionally, the staggered design facilitated skin penetration, as confirmed by the results of the rat skin hematoxylin-eosin (H&E) staining experiments. Compared with 3D-printed planar structures and highly uniform MN arrays, the staggered design exhibited enhanced hydrophilicity, as evidenced by a reduction in the contact angle from approximately 93° to 70°. Simulated drug release images of both coated and hollow staggered MNs illustrated the release and delivery capabilities of these structures across various skin layers, and the staggered design expanded the effective area of the MN arrays within the vertical dimension of the skin layers. This study offers both experimental and theoretical foundations for developing MN arrays with three–dimensional structural distributions, thereby facilitating advancements in MN array technology.
Special Issue “Intelligent Safety Monitoring and Prevention Process in Coal Mines”
Authors: Du Feng , Zhou Aitao , Li Bo
Published: January 2025

Coal mine safety has always been the top priority of the coal industry [...]
Prevalence of Substance Use and Associated Factors Among Secondary School Students in Marrakech Region, Morocco
Authors: Baslam Abdelmounaim , Boussaa Samia , Raoui Karima , Kabdy Hamid , Aitbaba Abdelfatah , El Yazouli Loubna , Aboufatima Rachida , Chait Abderrahman
Published: January 2025

Adolescence is a phase characterized by reckless and risky behaviors, including the initiation and use of various illicit substances such as cannabis and alcohol. When ingested or administered, these substances affect mental processes by delivering pleasure, inner peace, and satisfaction. The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence and associated factors of psychoactive substance (PAS) use among adolescents. A cross-sectional study was conducted, including 300 participants surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data were collected using the Mediterranean School Survey Project on Alcohol and Other Drugs (MedSPAD) to assess substance use, the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) to diagnose substance use disorders (SUDs), and the Early Trauma Inventory Self-Report Short Form (ETISR-SF) to identify childhood maltreatment, as well as socio-demographic characteristics. During the study period, 300 secondary school students participated. Their mean age was 17.92 ± 1.40 years, ranging from 15 to 22. There were slightly more males (56.7%) than females. A total of 40.67% of participants admitted to using at least one PAS at least once, while the prevalence of current use was 26%. Tobacco was the most commonly used substance (22.1%), followed by cannabis (7.33%). According to the DSM-5, 40.2% of users met the criteria for severe addiction. Factors associated with PAS use included the father’s level of education; place of use (e.g., home); poor relationships with parents, siblings, and teachers; and childhood maltreatment. Psychoactive substance use was found to be prevalent among adolescents in this study.
Faith’s Frontiers: An Exploration of Religious Syncretism and Cultural Adaptation in the “Guanyin/Madonna and Child” Painting
Authors: Liu Zetong , Zeng Hui , Chen Junming
Published: January 2025

The Guanyin/Madonna and Child painting, housed in the British Museum, exemplifies a distinct amalgamation of Catholic and Buddhist elements. This academic study explores the religious syncretism within this artwork, set against the backdrop of Sino-Western cultural dynamics. By integrating socio-religious analysis with iconographic methods, this research highlighted the interplay between the two religious traditions and the broader trends of cultural adaptation and religious amalgamation. It was proposed that the painting, on display at the British Museum, reflects not only the European depiction of the Madonna of Humility but also the Jesuit missionary influence and the clandestine religious practices of Chinese Christians during periods of persecution. This investigation provided new perspectives on the nuances of religious syncretism and the evolution of religious imagery within the contexts of cultural exchanges and missionary initiatives, augmenting scholarly discussions on the dynamics between religious beliefs and societal frameworks.
Issues and Limitations on the Road to Fair and Inclusive AI Solutions for Biomedical Challenges
Authors: Faust Oliver , Salvi Massimo , Barua Prabal Datta , Chakraborty Subrata , Molinari Filippo , Acharya U. Rajendra
Published: January 2025

Objective: In this paper, we explore the correlation between performance reporting and the development of inclusive AI solutions for biomedical problems. Our study examines the critical aspects of bias and noise in the context of medical decision support, aiming to provide actionable solutions. Contributions: A key contribution of our work is the recognition that measurement processes introduce noise and bias arising from human data interpretation and selection. We introduce the concept of “noise-bias cascade” to explain their interconnected nature. While current AI models handle noise well, bias remains a significant obstacle in achieving practical performance in these models. Our analysis spans the entire AI development lifecycle, from data collection to model deployment. Recommendations: To effectively mitigate bias, we assert the need to implement additional measures such as rigorous study design; appropriate statistical analysis; transparent reporting; and diverse research representation. Furthermore, we strongly recommend the integration of uncertainty measures during model deployment to ensure the utmost fairness and inclusivity. These comprehensive recommendations aim to minimize both bias and noise, thereby improving the performance of future medical decision support systems.
Special Issue: Human Movement Monitoring Using Wearable Sensor Technology
Authors: Lin Yi-Chung
Published: January 2025

The accurate and reliable measurement of human movement stands as a cornerstone in the evaluation of athletic performance, the management of fall risk, the prevention of injury, and the guidance of clinical rehabilitation [...]
The Influence of Substrate, Binder, and Additives on Suspension Coating Properties at Elevated Temperatures
Authors: Grigoriev Sergey N. , Meleshkin Yaroslav R. , Solís Pinargote Nestor Washington , Smirnov Anton , Prozhega Maksim V. , Konstantinov Egor O. , Korovushkin Vadim V. , Prudnikov Maksim I. , Volosova Marina A.
Published: January 2025

A study of the antifriction properties of suspension solid-lubricating coatings based on molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) at high temperatures depending on the type of substrate, binder, additives, and load parameters was carried out. The solid lubricants were sprayed on two different substrates, high-temperature alloy (Inconel X-750) and stainless steel (AISI 430), tested under 10 N and 23 N loads at temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 800 °C. For comparison, different types of solid lubricants were used. In this work, it was established that the antifriction properties of solid lubricant suspension coatings at high temperatures significantly depend on the type of solid lubricant and the binder used. Moreover, it was shown that the use of Inconel X-750 as a substrate can lead to an increase in the critical operating temperature of coatings containing MoS2, graphite, and titanate as solid lubricant, additive, and binder, respectively. For instance, at load 23 N, the operating temperature increased from 480 °C to 496 °C. On the other hand, the coating based on graphite, containing ceramic as an additive, and an inorganic binder showed the best performance in terms of a combination of properties (low coefficient of friction and longer operation with a coefficient of friction below 0.3 under increasing temperature) when it was applied on the Inconel X-750 substrate. In addition, it was established that the coefficient of friction of graphite-based coatings gradually increases as they lose their antifriction properties due to their failure, while the coatings based on molybdenum disulfide show the opposite behavior, where the coefficient of friction increases sharply when it loses its lubricating properties.
Optimization Methods for Radon Progeny Measurement Based on the Three-Stage Method
Authors: Cai Xiangming , Zeng Xuwei , Qin Fengdi , Shan Jian
Published: January 2025

In different measurement tasks, the duration allocated for radon progeny concentration measurement varies, and the requirements for measurement precision also differ. To accommodate the needs of various radon progeny concentration measurement tasks, this study takes the error in radon progeny concentration measurement as the optimization goal and the time points of the three-stage method as the optimization target, establishing an optimized three-stage method for radon progeny concentration measurement. The optimization algorithm allocates the three time periods under any total measurement time requirement, ensuring the highest measurement precision. The optimization algorithm can also optimize the measurement errors for 218Po, 214Pb, and 214Bi according to task requirements. By comparing with existing three-stage methods, when the total measurement time is 30 min, the optimization results are similar to Thomas’s three-stage method; when the total measurement time is 15 min, the measurement results are consistent with the rapid three-stage method. Therefore, the optimized results of the three-stage method are reasonable and reliable, providing technical support for different radon progeny measurement tasks.