bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of Fractional Vegetation Cover Change and Driving Forces in the Min River Basin on the Eastern Margin of the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Liu Shuyuan , Zhou Li , Wang Huan , Lin Jin , Huang Yuduo , Zhuo Peng , Ao Tianqi
Published: January 2025

Fractional vegetation cover (FVC) is an important indicator of regional ecological environment change, and quantitative research on the spatial and temporal distribution of FVC and the trend of change is of great significance to the monitoring, evaluation, protection, and restoration of regional ecology. This study estimates the FVC of the eastern Tibetan Plateau margin from 2000 to 2020 using the image element dichotomous model based on the Google Earth Engine platform using MODIS-NDVI images. It also investigates the temporal and spatial changes of the FVC in this region and its drivers using the Theil–Sen and Mann–Kendall trend tests, spatial autocorrelation analysis, geodetector, and machine learning approaches impact. The results of this study indicated a generally erratic rising tendency, with the Min River Basin (MRB) near the eastern tip of the Tibetan Plateau having an annual average FVC of 0.67 and an annual growth rate of 0.16%. The percentage of places with better vegetation reached 60.37%. The regional FVC showed significant positive spatial autocorrelation and was clustered. Driver analyses showed that soil type, DEM, temperature, potential evapotranspiration, and land use type were the main drivers influencing FVC on the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau. In addition, the random forest (RF) model outperformed the support vector machine (SVM), backpropagation neural network (BP), and long short-term memory network (LSTM) in FVC regression fitting. In summary, this study shows that the overall FVC in the eastern margin of the Tibetan Plateau is on an upward trend, and the regional ecological environment has improved significantly over the past two decades.
The Short-Term Effects of Prescribed Burning on the Root Biomass and Soil Carbon Dynamics of Larch Plantations
Authors: Li Fei , Gu Jiacun , Zhao Binqing , Jinhua Gong , Sun Long
Published: January 2025

The mechanism through which fine root biomass affects soil carbon accumulation after prescribed burning remains unclear. In this study, the biomass of fine roots in different life forms (larch, shrub, and grass) and the total soil carbon (STC) were determined after prescribed burning. Relative to a control, the total soil carbon increased one week after the fire (11.70 mg·g−1; 28.1%) and decreased after 8 months (7.33 mg·g−1; 16.7%), returning to control levels 10 months post-fire. There was a reduction in the larch fine root biomass (FRB) (0.20–0.48 t·ha−1; 35.3%–46.1%; these ranges represent the significant variation interval of fine root biomass after the fire across different time periods, compared to the control) but an increase in the shrub FRB (0.06–0.14 t·ha−1; 101.6%–158.4%) and herb FRB (0.06–0.13 t·ha−1; 591%–3200%) during the vegetation recovery process after the fire. The complementary growth of different plant life forms contributed to the changes in FRB. This also caused changes in the different life forms of FRBs’ effects on STC. Prescribed burning increased the contribution of FRB to STC. The compensatory growth of fine roots from different life forms drives the stabilization of the soil carbon pool after prescribed burning. Prescribed burning reduced the litter fuel and changed the FRB of different life forms, but it did not affect the long-term accumulation of STC.
Estimation of Forest Canopy Height from Spaceborne Full-Waveform LiDAR Data Using a Bisection Approximation Decomposition Method
Authors: Chen Song , Gong Ming , Sun Hua , Chen Ming , Wang Binbin
Published: January 2025

Forest canopy height (FCH) is a vital indicator for assessing forest health and ecosystem service capacity. Over the past two decades, full-waveform (FW) LiDAR has been widely employed for estimating forest biophysical variables due to its high precision in measuring vertical forest structures. However, the impact of terrain undulations on forest parameter estimation remains challenging. To address this issue, this study proposes a bisection approximation decomposition (BAD) method for processing GEDI L1B data and FCH estimation. The BAD method analyzes the energy composition of simplified echo signals and determines the fitting parameters by integrating overall signal energy, the differences in unresolved signals, and the similarity of inter-forest signal characteristics. FCH is subsequently estimated based on waveform peak positions. By dynamically adjusting segmentation points and Gaussian fitting parameters, the BAD method achieved precise separation of mixed canopy and ground signals, substantially enhancing the physical realism and applicability of decomposition results. The effectiveness and robustness of the BAD method for FCH estimation were evaluated using 2049 footprints across varying slope conditions in the Harvard Forest region of Petersham, Massachusetts. The results demonstrated that digital terrain models (DTMs) extracted using the GEDI data and the BAD method exhibited high consistency with the DTMs derived using airborne laser scanning (ALS) data (coefficient of determination R2 > 0.99). Compared with traditional Gaussian decomposition (GD), wavelet decomposition (WD), and deconvolution decomposition (DD) methods, the BAD method showed significant advantages in FCH estimation, achieved the smallest relative root mean square error (rRMSE) of 17.19% and greatest mean estimation accuracy of 84.57%, and reduced the rRMSE by 10.74%, 21.49%, and 28.93% compared to GD, WD, and DD methods, respectively. Moreover, the BAD method exhibited a significantly stronger correlation with ALS-derived canopy height mode data than the relative height metrics from GEDI L2A products (r = 0.84, p < 0.01). The robustness and adaptability of the BAD method to complex terrain conditions provide great potential for forest parameters using GEDI data.
Co-Cultivations of Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, and Trichoderma harzianum to Produce Bioactive Compounds for Application in Agriculture
Authors: da Silva Pauline Flores , dos Santos Maicon Sérgio Nascimento , Araújo Beatriz de Andrade , Kerber Bruno Douglas , de Oliveira Heloisa Alves Pinto , Guedes Jerson Vanderlei Carús , Mazutti Marcio Antonio , Tres Marcus Vinícius , Zabot Giovani Leone
Published: January 2025

Regenerative agriculture aims to improve soil quality and restore soil biodiversity, re-establishing natural systems in agricultural areas. Among some strategies, it is important to reduce the use of chemical pesticides that affect the productive capacity of the soil and cause problems to the environment. Based on this necessity, we present a strategy of producing a single product with bioinsecticidal and biofungicidal effects by submerged co-cultivations and paired cultivations of Beauveria bassiana, Metarhizium anisopliae, and Trichoderma harzianum using different concentrations of glucose, sucrose, hydrolyzed animal protein (HAP), soybean meal hydrolysate plus organic phosphorus (SMH), and hydrolyzed feathers (HF) as renewable nutrients. The single cultivations and double and triple co-cultivations were carried out for 7 days at 28 °C in orbital agitation at 120 rpm. Most of the highest values of conidia were obtained in the treatments at the central point, in which (g L−1) glucose (20), sucrose (10), HAP (7.5), SMH (2.5), and HF (2.5) were used. The fermented broths were applied to the backs of adult bugs (Euschistus heros), which mostly provided 66–88% mortality. Beauveria bassiana + Metarhizium anisopliae showed approximately 70% inhibition against Sclerotinia sclerotiorum and Macrophomina phaseolina. As a way forward, this product demonstrated integrated bioactivities as insecticide and fungicide and can be optimized to substitute chemical pesticides that have negative impacts on the environment.
End-to-End Framework for Identifying Vulnerabilities of Operational Technology Protocols and Their Implementations in Industrial IoT
Authors: Boeding Matthew , Hempel Michael , Sharif Hamid
Published: January 2025

The convergence of IT and OT networks has gained significant attention in recent years, facilitated by the increase in distributed computing capabilities, the widespread deployment of Internet of Things devices, and the adoption of Industrial Internet of Things. This convergence has led to a drastic increase in external access capabilities to previously air-gapped industrial systems for process control and monitoring. To meet the need for remote access to system information, protocols designed for the OT space were extended to allow IT networked communications. However, OT protocols often lack the rigor of cybersecurity capabilities that have become a critical characteristic of IT protocols. Furthermore, OT protocol implementations on individual devices can vary in performance, requiring the comprehensive evaluation of a device’s reliability and capabilities before installation into a critical infrastructure production network. In this paper, the authors define a framework for identifying vulnerabilities within these protocols and their on-device implementations, utilizing formal modeling, hardware in the loop-driven network emulation, and fully virtual network scenario simulation. Initially, protocol specifications are modeled to identify any vulnerable states within the protocol, leveraging the Construction and Analysis of Distributed Processes (CADP) software (version 2022-d “Kista”, which was created by Inria, the French Institute for Research in Computer Science and Automation, in France). Device characteristics are then extracted through automated real-time network emulation tests built on the OMNET++ framework, and all measured device characteristics are then used as a virtual device representation for network simulation tests within the OMNET++ software (version 6.0.1., a public-soucre, open-architecture software, initially developed by OpenSim Limited in Budapest, Hungary), to verify the presence of any potential vulnerabilities identified in the formal modeling stage. With this framework, the authors have thus defined an end-to-end process to identify and verify the presence and impact of potential vulnerabilities within a protocol, as shown by the presented results. Furthermore, this framework can test protocol compliance, performance, and security in a controlled environment before deploying devices in live production networks and addressing cybersecurity concerns.
Formulation and Characterization of Sodium Caseinate/Phloretin Complexes as Antioxidant Stabilizers in Oil-in-Water Emulsions
Authors: Kheynoor Najme , Jacquier Jean-Christophe , Khalesi Mohammadreza , Mortazavian Amir Mohammad , Golmakani Mohammad-Taghi
Published: January 2025

Emulsifiers with antioxidant properties, such as protein/polyphenol complexes, adsorb at the oil-water interface and improve the physical and oxidative stability of emulsions. Here, 2% (w/w) sodium caseinate and varying concentrations of phloretin (0–10 mM) were used to stabilize oil-in-water emulsions. Control emulsions with protein alone showed poor stability with increased droplet sizes from 0.33 µm to 5.18 µm after 30 days, while no significant change was observed in emulsions containing phloretin (remaining below 400 nm). The in vitro antioxidant activities increased with increasing phloretin concentrations (0 to 10 mM). In the ABTS assay, the antioxidant activity improved from 14.02 ± 8.33% to 95.09 ± 1.31%, and in the DPPH assay, it increased from 32.59 ± 2.73% to 99.03 ± 0.14%. Similarly, the oxidative stability of the emulsions improved with increasing phloretin concentrations (0 to 10 mM). After 30 days of storage, PV decreased from 38.22 ± 2.58 µM to 11.81 ± 2.55 µM, and MDA content reduced from 48.43 ± 0.31 µM to 7.24 ± 0.21 µM. Measuring the apparent viscosity demonstrated a reduction in viscosity with the addition of phloretin. These findings demonstrate that incorporating phloretin into sodium caseinate-stabilized emulsions as a novel antioxidant emulsifier can be an effective strategy to extend the shelf life of emulsified food products prone to oxidative deterioration.
Foodborne Event Detection Based on Social Media Mining: A Systematic Review
Authors: Salaris Silvano , Ocagli Honoria , Casamento Alessandra , Lanera Corrado , Gregori Dario
Published: January 2025

Foodborne illnesses represent a significant global health challenge, causing substantial morbidity and mortality. Conventional surveillance methods, such as laboratory-based reporting and physician notifications, often fail to enable early detection, prompting the exploration of innovative solutions. Social media platforms, combined with machine learning (ML), offer new opportunities for real-time monitoring and outbreak analysis. This systematic review evaluated the role of social networks in detecting and managing foodborne illnesses, particularly through the use of ML techniques to identify unreported events and enhance outbreak response. This review analyzed studies published up to December 2024 that utilized social media data and data mining to predict and prevent foodborne diseases. A comprehensive search was conducted across PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Arxiv, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, excluding clinical trials, case reports, and reviews. Two independent reviewers screened studies using Covidence, with a third resolving conflicts. Study variables included social media platforms, ML techniques (shallow and deep learning), and model performance, with a risk of bias assessed using the PROBAST tool. The results highlighted Twitter and Yelp as primary data sources, with shallow learning models dominating the field. Many studies were identified as having high or unclear risk of bias. This review underscored the potential of social media and ML in foodborne disease surveillance and emphasizes the need for standardized methodologies and further exploration of deep learning models.
Effect of Pre-Emulsified Flaxseed Oil Containing Rutin on the Quality of Nemipterus virgatus Surimi Gel: Gelatinization Properties, Storage Stability, and Protein Digestibility
Authors: Liu Qingguan , Huang Xiaobing , Ma Huanta , Qin Xinyi , Hong Pengzhi , Pi Xiaowen , Zhou Chunxia
Published: January 2025

Rinsing during surimi protein processing can result in the loss of essential nutrients, such as fats and minerals. Therefore, supplementing functional fats in a stable form can make up for the fat loss of surimi during the rinsing process. This research aimed to investigate the effects of incorporating pre-emulsified flaxseed oil with different concentrations of rutin (0, 0.5, 1.5, 2.5, and 3.5%, dissolved in flaxseed oil, w/v) to Nemipterus virgatus surimi on the gelatinization properties, lipid oxidation, and in vitro static simulated digestion characteristics of surimi gels. The results indicated that the addition of 1.5% rutin significantly improved the water-holding capacity and decreased the cooking loss rate of surimi gel (p < 0.05). The results of optical microscopy and scanning electron microscopy showed that the addition of 1.5% rutin promoted a denser network structure of surimi gel. Furthermore, the incorporation of rutin effectively slowed lipid oxidation in pre-emulsified flaxseed oil surimi gel. Compared with the gel group containing only pre-emulsified flaxseed oil, the addition of rutin significantly reduced the levels of volatile base nitrogen (TVB-N) and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARSs) in the gel and also mitigated the decline in acidity (p < 0.05). Moreover, the addition of rutin significantly inhibited the decrease in pH of surimi gel during storage (p < 0.05). In vitro static simulated digestion demonstrated that the addition of 1.5% rutin enhanced the protein digestibility from 71.2% to 77.2% of the surimi gel. Therefore, adding pre-emulsified oil containing an appropriate amount of rutin to surimi can not only compensate for the fat loss during the surimi rinsing process but also effectively improve the quality characteristics of surimi gels. This research will provide a theoretical basis for the effective addition of functional lipids in surimi products and the development of nutritious and healthy surimi products.
Exploring Order–Disorder Transitions Using a Two-State Master Equation
Authors: Plastino Angelo , Monteoliva Diana
Published: January 2025

In this study, we explore the order–disorder transition in the dynamics of a straightforward master equation that describes the evolution of a probability distribution between two states, p1 and p2 (with p1+p2=1). We focus on (1) the behavior of entropy S, (2) the distance D from the uniform distribution (p1=p2=1/2), and (3) the free energy F. To facilitate understanding, we introduce two price-ratios: ηS=dS/dtdF/dt and ηD=dD/dtdF/dt. They respectively define the energetic costs of modifying (1) S and (2) D. Our findings indicate that both energy costs diverge to plus and minus infinity as the system approaches the uniform distribution, marking a critical transition point where the master equation temporarily loses its physical meaning. Following this divergence, the system stabilizes itself into a new well-behaved regime, reaching finite values that signify a new steady state. This two-regime behavior showcases the intricate dynamics of simple probabilistic systems and offers valuable insights into the relationships between entropy, distance in probability space, and free energy within the framework of statistical mechanics, making it a useful case study that highlights the underlying principles of the system’s evolution and equilibrium. Our discussion revolves about the order–disorder contrast that is important in various scientific disciplines, including physics, chemistry, and material science, and even in broader contexts like philosophy and social sciences.
Numerical Algorithm for Coupled Fixed Points in Normed Spaces with Applications to Fractional Differential Equations and Economics
Authors: Guo Lifang , Alshaikey Salha , Alshejari Abeer , Din Muhammad , Ishtiaq Umar
Published: January 2025

This paper introduces interpolative enriched cyclic Reich–Rus–Ćirić operators in normed spaces, expanding existing contraction principles by integrating interpolation and cyclic conditions. This class of operators addresses mappings with discontinuities or non-self mappings, enhancing the applicability of fixed-point theory to more complex problems. This class of operators expands on existing cyclic contractions, including interpolative Kannan mappings, interpolative Reich–Rus–Ćirić contractions, and other known contractions in the literature. We demonstrate the existence and uniqueness of fixed points for these operators and provide an example to illustrate our findings. Moreover, we discuss the applications of our results in solving nonlinear integral equations. Furthermore, we introduce the idea of a coupled interpolative enriched cyclic Reich–Rus–Ćirić operator and establish the existence of a strongly coupled fixed-point theorem for this contraction. Finally, we provide an application to fractional differential equations to show the validity of the main result.
Comparative Studies of Nonlinear Models and Their Applications to Magmatic Evolution and Crustal Growth of the Huai’an Terrane in the North China Craton
Authors: Cheng Qiuming , Gao Min
Published: January 2025

Power-law, inverse exponential and logarithmic models are widely used as empirical tools to describe anomalies in spatial and temporal geodynamic processes. However, the lack of clear interpretation of the relationships and distinctions among these models often makes their selection challenging, leaving them as empirical tools to be validated by data. This paper introduces these nonlinear functions derived from a unified differential equation, with parameters that reflect their relative nonlinearities and singularities, enabling their comparative application. By applying these functions to analyze magmatic events of the Huai’an Terrane, this study reveals two major crustal growth and reworking events between 2.6 and 1.7 Ga, each exhibiting distinctive nonlinear characteristics. The power-law function highlights strong nonlinearity and singularity during phases of intense magmatic activity, while logarithmic and exponential functions effectively characterize transitions between different tectonic processes. Geochemical data, including U-Pb zircon dating and Lu-Hf isotopic analyses, further validate the models by delineating distinct phases of crustal growth and reworking within the Trans-North China Orogen. The findings help connect the anomalies of frequency of magmatic events with the tectonic processes, providing important insights into the evolution processes of the North China Craton.
Optimization of Hydrogen Supercritical Oxy-Combustion in Gas Turbines
Authors: Oleś Sylwia , Mularski Jakub , Pyka Dariusz , Pawlak-Kruczek Halina , Pozarlik Artur
Published: January 2025

This study investigates the combustion of hydrogen in supercritical gas turbines, emphasizing the optimization of combustor design through computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. Key parameters analysed include the number of oxygen inlets, operating pressure, excess working fluid in oxygen inlets, power output, and the use of different working fluids: supercritical argon (sAr) and supercritical xenon (sXe). The results highlight how these parameters influence temperature distribution, flame stability, and overall combustion efficiency. Findings suggest that increasing the number of oxygen inlets can significantly affect temperature profiles, while higher operating pressures lead to shorter flames. The dilution of oxygen by argon reduces the peak temperatures, and the choice of working fluid impacts cooling efficiency and flame dynamics. This study provides valuable information on optimizing the design of supercritical combustion chambers for hydrogen combustion in novel supercritical gas turbine systems.
Databases and Information Models for Semantic and Evolutionary Analysis in Fortified Cultural Heritage
Authors: Parrinello Sandro , Pettineo Alberto
Published: January 2025

The paper explores two fortified systems, as case studies, to evaluate different modelling approaches, the parameterisation of architectural components, and semantic interpretation, to define a repeatable methodology for classifying, accessing, and sharing architectural information. The use of informational structures to categorise data and relations through semantic attributes addresses the need to make data queryable and interoperable. In architectural documentation, this practice opens up new perspectives for creating and sharing collaborative repositories, radically transforming the way of disseminating and accessing knowledge. Linking qualitative data information with 3D models enables the development of semantic structures that provide a deeper understanding of intrinsic characteristics, historical transformations of architectural complexes, and their cultural context. While databases effectively manage structured information and relationships between different signifiers, semantically enriched 3D modelling, through the management of surfaces or parameters, offers an accurate and flexible representation of each component. The evaluation of these case studies not only improves the ability to understand and appreciate built heritage but also provides new opportunities for researchers in architectural documentation and history. Semantic subdivision processes of built complexes into individual components facilitate the analysis and the digital preservation of heritage, enabling more precise interpretations and faithful reconstructions.
Macroeconomic Determinants of Effective Corporate Tax Rates: The Case of the Slovak Republic
Authors: Andrejovská Alena , Glova Jozef
Published: January 2025

The effective corporate tax rate is a critical measure reflecting a nation’s fiscal policy and its attractiveness to foreign investment. This study investigates the relationship between macroeconomic determinants and effective corporate tax rates, focusing on Slovakia’s competitiveness within the European Union from 2004 to 2022. Using a panel regression model, the research identifies significant correlations between nominal tax rates, unemployment, government debt, and effective tax rates. Our findings reveal a consistent downward trend in both nominal and effective tax rates across EU member states, with Slovakia maintaining relatively lower effective tax rates compared to older EU members, thus enhancing its fiscal competitiveness. However, discrepancies persist among member states, influenced by differences in tax policies, enforcement, and exemptions. The study underscores the complex interplay between fiscal policies and macroeconomic conditions, highlighting the importance of aligning effective tax rates with broader economic goals. Policymakers are advised to consider reforms that balance tax competitiveness with fiscal sustainability, ensuring that effective tax rates reflect intended policy outcomes. This analysis offers valuable insights into tax policy dynamics within the EU and provides a framework for designing strategies to attract investment while maintaining economic stability.
Quantification of Soil–Water Erosion Using the RUSLE Method in the Mékrou Watershed (Middle Niger River)
Authors: Attoubounou Rachid Abdourahamane , Diawara Hamidou , Ludwig Ralf , Adounkpe Julien
Published: January 2025

Despite nearly a century of research on water-related issues, water erosion remains one of the greatest threats to soil health and soil ecosystem services around the world. Yet, to date, data on water erosion needed to develop mitigation strategies are scarce, especially in the Sahelian regions. The current study therefore sets out to estimate annual soil losses caused by water erosion and to analyze trends over the period of 1981–2020 in the Mékrou watershed, located in the Middle Niger river sub-basin in West Africa. The Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation, remote sensing, and the Geographic Information System (GIS) were deployed in this study. Several types of data were used, including rainfall data, sourced from meteorological stations and reanalysis datasets, which capture the temporal variability of erosive forces. Soil properties, including texture and organic matter content, were derived from FAO global soil databases to assess soil erodibility. High-resolution digital elevation models (30 m) provided detailed topographic information, crucial for calculating slope length and steepness factors. Land use and land cover data were extracted from satellite imagery, enabling the analysis of vegetation cover and anthropogenic impacts over four decades. By integrating and treating these data, this study reveals that the estimated average annual amount of water erosion in the Mékrou watershed is 6.49 t/ha/yr over 1981–2020. The dynamics of the ten-year average are highly variable, with a minimum of 3.45 t/ha/yr between 1981 and 1990, and a maximum of 8.50 t/ha/yr between 1991 and 2000. Even though these average soil losses in the Mékrou basin are below the tolerable threshold of 10 t/ha/yr, mitigation actions are needed for prevention. In addition, the spatial dynamics of water erosion are noticeably heterogeneous. The study reveals that 72.7% of the surface area of the Mékrou watershed is subject to slight water erosion below the threshold, compared with 27.3%, particularly in the mountainous south-western part, which is subject to intense erosion above the threshold. This research is the first study of soil erosion quantification with the RUSLE method and GIS in the Mékrou watershed, and fills a critical knowledge gap of the water erosion in this watershed, providing insights into erosion dynamics and supporting future sustainable land management strategies in vulnerable Sahelian landscapes.
Nobiletin and Eriodictyol Suppress Release of IL-1β, CXCL8, IL-6, and MMP-9 from LPS, SARS-CoV-2 Spike Protein, and Ochratoxin A-Stimulated Human Microglia
Authors: Tsilioni Irene , Kempuraj Duraisamy , Theoharides Theoharis C.
Published: January 2025

Neuroinflammation is involved in various neurological and neurodegenerative disorders in which the activation of microglia is one of the key factors. In this study, we examined the anti-inflammatory effects of the flavonoids nobiletin (5,6,7,8,3′,4′-hexamethoxyflavone) and eriodictyol (3′,4′,5,7-tetraxydroxyflavanone) on human microglia cell line activation stimulated by either lipopolysaccharide (LPS), severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) full-length Spike protein (FL-Spike), or the mycotoxin ochratoxin A (OTA). Human microglia were preincubated with the flavonoids (10, 50, and 100 µM) for 2 h, following which, they were stimulated for 24 h. The inflammatory mediators interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β), chemokine (C-X-C motif) ligand 8 (CXCL8), IL-6, and matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9) were quantified in the cell culture supernatant by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Both nobiletin and eriodictyol significantly inhibited the LPS, FL-Spike, and OTA-stimulated release of IL-1β, CXCL8, IL-6, and MMP-9 at 50 and 100 µM, while, in most cases, nobiletin was also effective at 10 µM, with the most pronounced reductions at 100 µM. These findings suggest that both nobiletin and eriodictyol are potent inhibitors of the pathogen-stimulated microglial release of inflammatory mediators, highlighting their potential for therapeutic application in neuroinflammatory diseases, such as long COVID.
Fibronectin Glomerulopathy Without Typical Renal Biopsy Features in a 4-Year-Old Girl with Incidentally Discovered Proteinuria and a G417V FN1 Gene Mutation
Authors: Kalmár Tibor , Jakab Dániel , Maróti Zoltán , Pásztor Gyula , Turkevi-Nagy Sándor , Kemény Éva , Hopfer Helmut , Becker Jan Ulrich , Bereczki Csaba , Iványi Béla
Published: January 2025

Fibronectin glomerulopathy (FG) is caused by fibronectin 1 (FN1) gene mutations. A renal biopsy was performed on a 4-year-old girl with incidentally discovered proteinuria (150 mg/dL); her family history of renal disease was negative. Markedly enlarged glomeruli (mean glomerular diameter: 196 μm; age-matched controls: 140 μm), α-SMA-positive and Ki-67-positive mesangial cell proliferation (glomerular proliferation index 1.76), the mild expansion of mesangial areas, no immune or electron-dense deposits, normal glomerular basement membrane, and diffusely effaced foot processes were observed. Genetic testing identified a de novo heterozygous mutation (Gly417Val) in the collagen-binding site of the FN II-2 domain, prompting fibronectin immunostaining. Strong mesangial positivity was noted, hence FG was diagnosed. The follow-up period of 29 months revealed nephrotic range proteinuria, intermittent microhematuria, glomerular hyperfiltration, and preserved renal function. The biopsy features of early childhood-onset FG were compared to a case of FG with a lobular pattern diagnosed in a 44-year-old patient with undulating proteinuria, microhematuria, hypertension known for a year, and a positive family history. Early childhood-onset FG was characterized by glomerular enlargement, mesangial proliferation, and no changes that suggested fibronectin deposition disease. In summary, the novel aspects of the case were that the mutation was located at the collagen-binding site of the FN1 gene, not identified earlier, and the histologic spectrum of FG was expanded by the observed mesangial proliferative pattern and striking glomerulomegaly. Now, FG should also be considered among the monogenic causes of proteinuric kidney diseases in pediatric nephrology practice.
Pharmacological Properties of Platycarpha glomerata Extracts—A Plant Used to Treat and Manage Elephantiasis
Authors: Lamula Siphamandla Q. N. , Taliwe Aphelele , Buwa-Komoreng Lisa V.
Published: January 2025

Platycarpha glomerata (Thunb.) Less. has recently become a plant species of interest to researchers due to its biological activities and less toxic effects. Therefore, the aim of the study is to evaluate the in vitro anticancer potential and phytochemical constituents of P. glomerata plant extracts. Phytochemical screening and FTIR were carried out using standard methods. The antioxidant activity was accessed by determining its ability to scavenge the DPPH radical and nitric oxide radical, whereas the anticancer activity against prostate (DU-145 and PC-3), human T-lymphocyte (SKU-T), gastric adenocarcinoma (AGS), and human prostatic epithelial (PNTA1) cell line was evaluated using the MTT assay. The phytochemical analysis revealed the presence of tannins, flavonoids, saponins, steroids, terpenoids, and cardiac glycosides. The FTIR spectrum for the aqueous extract displayed characteristic peaks for O–H, C=O, C=C, and =C–H stretch. The aqueous ethanol and methanol extracts showed significant dose-dependent DPPH radical scavenging capacity. The aqueous, ethanol, and methanol extracts showed minimum NO scavenging activity of 4.3%, 9.6%, and 11.7% at 2500 µg/mL. The water extract demonstrated good activity against S. aureus, E. coli, and B. pumilus with an MIC of 0.195 mg/mL. The ethanol and methanol extracts significantly reduced the percentage proliferation of DU-145, PC-3, and SKU-T cells at 100 μg/mL. These extracts demonstrated strong dose-dependent DPPH and NO scavenging and antibacterial and cell proliferation inhibition activities. The strong bioactivity of P. glomerata makes it a good candidate for the isolation and identification of active compounds for anticancer and related illnesses.
Proteomic Analysis of Differentially Expressed Proteins in A549 Cells Infected with H9N2 Avian Influenza Virus
Authors: Zhao Conghui , Zhang Xiaoxuan , Wang Huanhuan , Qiang Haoxi , Liu Sha , Zhang Chunping , Huang Jiacheng , Wang Yang , Li Peilin , Chen Xinhui , Zhang Ziyi , Ma Shujie
Published: January 2025

Influenza A viruses (IAVs) are highly contagious pathogens that cause zoonotic disease with limited availability of antiviral therapies, presenting ongoing challenges to both public health and the livestock industry. Unveiling host proteins that are crucial to the IAV life cycle can help clarify mechanisms of viral replication and identify potential targets for developing alternative host-directed therapies. Using a four-dimensional (4D), label-free methodology coupled with bioinformatics analysis, we analyzed the expression patterns of cellular proteins that changed following H9N2 virus infection. Compared to the control group, the H9N2 infected group displayed 732 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), with 298 proteins showing upregulation and 434 proteins showing downregulation. Gene Ontology (GO) functional analysis showed that DEPs were catalog in 11 biological processes, three cellular components, and eight molecular functions. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway analysis revealed that DEPs were involved in processes including cytokine signaling pathways induced by virus infection and protein digestion and absorption. Proteins including TP53, DDX58, and STAT3 were among the top hub proteins in the protein–protein interaction (PPI) analysis, suggesting that these signaling cascades could be essential for the propagation of IAVs. Furthermore, the host protein SNAPIN was chosen to ascertain the accuracy of expression changes identified through a proteomic analysis. The results indicated that SNAPIN was downregulated following infection with IAVs both in vitro and in vivo, which is consistent with the proteomics results, suggesting that SNAPIN may serve as a key regulatory factor in the viral life cycle of IAVs. Our research delineates an extensive interaction map of IAV infection within the A549 cells, facilitating the discovery of pivotal proteins that contribute to the virus’s propagation, potentially offering target candidates to screen for antiviral therapeutics.
Deciphering the Complexities of Adult Human Steady State and Stress-Induced Hematopoiesis: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Watt Suzanne M. , Roubelakis Maria G.
Published: January 2025

Human hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) have traditionally been viewed as self-renewing, multipotent cells with enormous potential in sustaining essential steady state blood and immune cell production throughout life. Indeed, around 86% (1011–1012) of new cells generated daily in a healthy young human adult are of hematopoietic origin. Therapeutically, human HSCs have contributed to over 1.5 million hematopoietic cell transplants (HCTs) globally, making this the most successful regenerative therapy to date. We will commence this review by briefly highlighting selected key achievements (from 1868 to the end of the 20th century) that have contributed to this accomplishment. Much of our knowledge of hematopoiesis is based on small animal models that, despite their enormous importance, do not always recapitulate human hematopoiesis. Given this, we will critically review the progress and challenges faced in identifying adult human HSCs and tracing their lineage differentiation trajectories, referring to murine studies as needed. Moving forward and given that human hematopoiesis is dynamic and can readily adjust to a variety of stressors, we will then discuss recent research advances contributing to understanding (i) which HSPCs maintain daily steady state human hematopoiesis, (ii) where these are located, and (iii) which mechanisms come into play when homeostatic hematopoiesis switches to stress-induced or emergency hematopoiesis.
Decoding Success: The Role of E-Learning Readiness in Linking Technological Skills and Employability in Hospitality Management Graduates
Authors: Elshaer Ibrahim A. , Azazz Alaa M. S. , Mohammad Abuelkassem A. A. , Fayyad Sameh
Published: January 2025

Technological advancement alongside global epidemics stimulated the widescale implementation of e-learning. However, it is reported that e-learning is in the experimental phase and still requires fundamental improvements, particularly in disciplines that go beyond theoretical knowledge. The current study examines the nexus between e-learning readiness, psychological motivation, technological skills, and employability skills among hospitality management undergraduates. It also explores the moderating effects of student engagement on the linkages among these variables. To that end, this study adopted a quantitative approach and used a self-administered questionnaire survey to collect primary data. The sample included a total of 428 participants who were recruited from undergraduates of hospitality management programs in Egyptian universities using the convenience sampling technique. Data analysis included performing PLS-SEM using Smart PLS 3.0 software. The results confirm the positive effects of psychological motivation and technological skills on both e-learning readiness and the employability skills of hospitality management undergraduates. The study also underscores the mediated role of e-learning readiness in the linkages between study predictors and outcomes. Additionally, the findings highlight the moderating effect of student engagement in supporting e-learning readiness and eventually employability skills. This study adds to the hospitality management body of knowledge and provides valuable insights for education institutions and policymakers to optimize e-learning experiences.
Integrating Motivation Theory into the AIED Curriculum for Technical Education: Examining the Impact on Learning Outcomes and the Moderating Role of Computer Self-Efficacy
Authors: Chang Shao-Hsun , Yao Kai-Chao , Chen Yao-Ting , Chung Cheng-Yang , Huang Wei-Lun , Ho Wei-Sho
Published: January 2025

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies into education has gained increasing attention, yet limited research examines how the curriculum design can enhance learning outcomes and influence learners’ intentions to continue AI learning. This study addresses this gap by integrating the theory of planned behavior, technology acceptance model, theories of motivation, and computer self-efficacy to explore the factors affecting learners’ behavioral intentions in AI education. Using the AI course quality as the primary antecedent and “intention to continue taking courses” as the dependent variable, the study investigates the structural relationships and mediating variables between these factors. Data were collected through a stratified random sampling method from 19 universities in Taiwan, involving 200 students who had completed five core AI-related courses, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, internet of things, big data, and robotics. The analysis, conducted using PLS-SEM, revealed that AI course quality directly and indirectly influences learners’ behavioral intentions through mediating variables such as learning satisfaction, computer self-efficacy, technological literacy, and computer learning motivation. Moreover, AI course quality exerted a significant positive effect on computer motivation, which, in turn, influenced self-efficacy and learning outcomes. These findings provide valuable insights into the antecedents and processes shaping learners’ intentions to continue AI learning, offering practical and theoretical implications for AI education.
Clinical Presentation, Treatment Outcomes, and Demographic Trends in Vestibular Schwannomas: A 135-Case Retrospective Study
Authors: Toader Corneliu , Rădoi Petrinel Mugurel , Ilie Milena-Monica , Covache-Busuioc Razvan-Adrian , Buica Vlad , Glavan Luca-Andrei , Serban Matei , Corlatescu Antonio Daniel , Crivoi Carla , Gorgan Radu Mircea
Published: January 2025

Background: This study presents a comprehensive analysis of 135 cases of vestibular schwannoma (VS) treated between 2006 and 2022 at the National Institute of Neurology and Neurovascular Diseases in Bucharest, Romania. The investigation focuses on the clinical presentation, treatment outcomes, and demographic trends of VS patients, highlighting region-specific insights that fill critical gaps in Eastern European data. Methods: Patients were treated with either open surgery (93.3%) or gamma knife radiosurgery (6.6%). The study identifies predominant symptoms, including hearing impairment, facial palsy, and balance disorders, with variations observed across age and gender subgroups. Comorbidities such as hypertension and obesity were prevalent, and they influenced perioperative risks. Results: Post-treatment outcomes showed a significant correlation between clinical symptoms and treatment modalities, with a majority achieving favorable results. The findings emphasize the need for tailored approaches in VS management and underscore the importance of region-specific factors in influencing clinical outcomes. Conclusions: This study contributes to refining treatment strategies and improving healthcare delivery for VS patients in Romania and beyond.
Real-World 12-Month Outcomes with Sirolimus-Coated Balloon Angioplasty for Complex Femoropopliteal Disease
Authors: Beropoulis Efthymios , Avranas Konstantinos , Rouvi Elena , Donas Konstantinos P.
Published: January 2025

Background: Sirolimus-coated balloons (SCBs) have emerged as a promising alternative to paclitaxel-coated devices for the treatment of femoropopliteal lesions. However, real-world data on SCB performance in also complex peripheral arterial disease remains unknown. We sought to evaluate the safety and 12-month clinical outcomes of the Selution SLR™ balloon angioplasty in a challenging real-world patient cohort. Methods: This single-center, retrospective observational study with prospective follow-up included 21 patients with symptomatic peripheral arterial disease treated with the Selution SLR™ SCB (Med. Alliance, SA, Mont-sur-Rolle, Switzerland) after vessel preparation with rotational atherectomy, between October 2023 and November 2024. The primary endpoints were technical success, 12-month primary patency, and target lesion revascularization (TLR). Secondary endpoints included major adverse cardiac events (MACE), major adverse limb events (MALE), and changes in Rutherford classification and ankle-brachial index (ABI). Results: The median age was 79 years, with 47.6% of patients over 80 years old. Most patients presented with advanced peripheral atherosclerotic disease (PAD) (Rutherford category V, 47.6%). Lesions were predominantly occlusive (76.2%), with a median length of 130 mm and severe/moderate calcified in 71.4% of cases. Technical success was achieved in 95.2% of procedures. The 12-month primary patency was 95%, with a TLR-Rate of 5%. No major amputations or cardiovascular deaths occurred. Significant improvements in Rutherford category and ABI were maintained at 12 months. Conclusions: In this real-world cohort of patients with complex PAD, vessel preparation-assisted Selution SLR™ angioplasty demonstrated safety and promising 12-month outcomes. These findings support the use of SCBs in also challenging peripheral interventions, though larger-scale data and further follow up are needed in order to establish SCBs’ role as crucial in the treatment algorithm of PAD.
Anticancer-Drug-Related Cardiotoxicity from Adjuvant Goserelin and Tamoxifen Therapy
Authors: Manfrini Olivia , Cenko Edina , Bergami Maria , Yoon Jinsung , Kostadinovic Jelena , Zdravkovic Darko , Zdravkovic Marija , Bugiardini Raffaele
Published: January 2025

Background: Breast cancer is a prevalent malignancy with rising incidence globally. Advances in endocrine therapy have improved outcomes for premenopausal women with hormone receptor-positive breast cancer. However, these treatments may induce menopause-like states, potentially elevating cardiovascular risks, including left ventricular (LV) dysfunction. This study aims to evaluate the impact of one year of adjuvant endocrine therapy with goserelin and tamoxifen on LV function in premenopausal breast cancer patients. Methods: The ISACS cardiovascular toxicity (NCT01218776) is a pilot multicenter registry of breast cancer patients referred to hospitals for routine surveillance, suspected, or confirmed anticancer-drug-related cardiotoxicity (ADRC). Patients may be enrolled retrospectively (1 year) and prospectively. The pilot phase focused on the available data on combined goserelin and tamoxifen therapy for breast cancer and its impact on LV disfunction at 1-year follow-up. Inverse probability of treatment weighting (IPTW) analysis of the ISACS registry was performed assigning 70 patients to combined endocrine therapy (goserelin and tamoxifen). Controls consisted of 120 patients with no adjuvant combined goserelin and tamoxifen therapy. None of the patients developed distant metastasis. Primary outcome measures were as follows: low LV function in women as defined by a left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) < 65% and subclinical LV dysfunction as defined by a 10-percentage point decrease in LVEF. Results: In the overall population, combined goserelin and tamoxifen therapy did not affect the mean LV function compared with controls at 3-, 6-, and 12-month follow-up (65.7 ± 2.7% versus 65.3 ± 2.1%, p value = 0.27; 65.5 ± 2.9% versus 65.1 ± 2.5%, p value = 0.34; 65.0 ± 3.2% versus 64.6 ± 3.1%, p value = 0.29, respectively). The mean LVEF reduction in patients who did or did not receive combination therapy for 12 months was small and approximately similar (1.03 ± 2.5% versus 1.16 ± 2.9%, p value = 0.73). Using IPTW analyses, there were no significant associations between combined therapy and low LV function (risk ratio [RR]: 1.75; 95% CI: 0.71–4.31) or subclinical LV dysfunction (RR: 1.50; 95% CI: 0.35–6.53) compared with controls. Conclusions: One year of endocrine therapy with goserelin and tamoxifen does not cause ADRC in patients with invasive breast cancer. Findings are independent of the severity of the disease. Results may not be definitive without replication in studies with larger sample size.