bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Retrofit-Oriented Large Parks’ Walking-Shed Evaluation—A Case Study of Rizhao, China
Authors: Yin Zhen , Wang Lifei , Xu Zhen
Published: February 2025

Large parks play a key role in the identity of urban public spaces and as destinations for residents’ urban walks, with the social benefits they provide being irreplaceable by other types of green spaces. This study examines the accessibility of large urban parks in Rizhao, China, focusing on spatial distribution, service equity, and optimization strategies. Using GIS-based walking route proximity analysis, the study identifies significant accessibility gaps in high-density urban areas. Rizhao is a typical coastal tourist city, selected as the study area due to its low level of urbanization and the underutilization of its natural resources. This study uses online map data to evaluate the service efficiency and supply–demand heterogeneity of large parks from multiple perspectives, proposing targeted, practical, and micro-intervention-based spatial measures based on typical case analysis. The results show that 70.52% of the population in the study area is served by park entrances within a 1500 m walking distance, indicating that a considerable portion of residents remain beyond a reasonable walking distance. In the context of urban renewal and sustainable development, this study proposes practical improvements to park accessibility, including suggestions for determining suitable locations for new large parks as a long-term goal, alongside low-cost interventions such as increasing park entrances to maximize the use of existing resources and optimizing pedestrian routes (including opening gated communities and adding crossing facilities) to improve park walking service catchment in smaller environments. This study provides insights for urban park renewal, retrofitting, and expansion, supporting accessibility measures in planning practices, and is expected to provide valuable references for urban managers and policymakers. Furthermore, the study suggests that policy adjustments are necessary to integrate green spaces into urban development more effectively, particularly in rapidly urbanizing areas.
How Hiring Agricultural Managers Affect Farmland Quality Protection Behavior in Farmers’ Cooperatives—Evidence Based on the Survey of Cooperatives in Sichuan, China
Authors: Zeng Guo-Yan , Deng Jie-Hao , Zhang She-Mei
Published: February 2025

This paper aims to include the human capital elements of agricultural managers in the decision-making process of farmland quality protection behavior in farmers’ cooperatives in an effort to discuss and explore the relationship between hiring agricultural managers and the implementation of farmland quality protection behavior. Based on the survey questionnaire of 436 planting cooperatives in Sichuan, China, in 2021, the Poisson model and mediating effect model were used to explore the impact and mechanism of hiring agricultural managers on farmland quality protection behavior in farmers’ cooperatives. The empirical results reveal that hiring agricultural managers significantly elevates farmland quality protection behavior in farmers’ cooperatives. Compared to cross-period farmland quality protection behavior, hiring agricultural managers has a greater impact on single-period farmland quality protection behavior. Through the improvement of information technology application level, the farmland quality protection behavior in cooperatives can be elevated by hiring agricultural managers, but standardized management has a masking effect between the two. Accordingly, continuous development and growth of the agricultural manager team encourages cooperatives to establish a standardized system for recruiting farm managers and strengthen the link between farm managers and cooperatives. The training of agricultural managers should be optimized to deepen their mastery of techniques and knowledge and protect the quality of arable land. Material and moral incentives should be provided to encourage farm managers to focus on the long-term development of their cooperatives. The government should be encouraged to establish a platform for sharing information on farmland quality to provide technical support to farm managers to carry out targeted work on farmland quality protection.
Surface Micro-Relief Evolution in Southeast Tibet Based on InSAR Technology
Authors: Gesangzhuoma  , Han Zitong , Cheng Liang , Jiang Zhouyuqian , Jiang Qun’ou
Published: February 2025

Based on 143 Sentinel-1A images from January 2020 to December 2022, this study used SBAS-InSAR technology to monitor the surface deformation of the tailings pond and analyzed and predicted the surface deformation laws in southeast Tibet. Overall, the surface deformation of the tailings pond was significant and there were many areas where the deformation was uneven. The typical subsidence areas were mainly located in the northern part of the right tailings pond and the southern part of the left tailings pond. From a temporal perspective, the subsidence in the tailings pond showed a certain periodic downward fluctuation. Specifically, cumulative subsidence from January to September each year displayed a clear downward trend, reaching its maximum around September. This was followed by a slight uplift in October and November, after which a notable downward trend resumed from December until the following September. Based on spatial scale analysis, the changes in the tailings pond were relatively stable before May 2020. After that, the northern part of the right tailings pond showed a sinking trend, while the southern part exhibited uplift, and the central part remained relatively stable. Conversely, the southeastern part of the left tailings pond showed an uplifting trend, while the northern, central, and western parts experienced subsidence. Based on the Holt–Winters exponential smoothing model, we predicted the cumulative subsidence for 10 monitoring points in 2023. The northern part of the right tailings pond is expected to continue showing a significant subsidence trend in 2023. A prominent subsidence center is projected to emerge in the central part of the left tailings pond, and we should strengthen monitoring to avoid the disaster risk in the mining area.
Usage-Based Models Around and Inside BLC Theory Peer Commentary on the Essay by Jan Hulstijn Entitled “Predictions of Individual Differences in the Acquisition of Native and Non-Native Languages: An Update of BLC Theory”
Authors: Schmid Hans-Jörg
Published: February 2025

In his essay entitled “Predictions of Individual Differences in the Acquisition of Native and Non-Native Languages: An Update of BLC Theory”, Jan Hulstijn updates his theory of Basic Language Cognition (Hulstijn 2011, 2015). His central claim is that there is a fundamental difference between the Basic Language Cognition that is sufficient for dealing with oral language and the Extended Language Cognition required for handling reading and writing. In my invited commentary, I argue that used-based models of language provide a wider theoretical background that helps to ground Hulstijn’s theory. I illustrate what this means with reference to the Entrenchment-and-Conventionalization Model (Schmid 2020). Based on this model I discuss Hulstijn’s predictions regarding the extent of interindividual differences to be expected among L1-speakers and L-2 speakers.
Mapping the Left Periphery of Similative Constructions: Dutch Dialects as a Case Study
Authors: Massaia Marta
Published: February 2025

The left periphery of non-standard Dutch similative clauses hosts a variety of different elements (such as gelijk “like”, zo “so”, als “as”, and hoe “how”) that can sometimes co-occur following a strict hierarchy that seems to hold in other (non-standard) Germanic varieties as well. The present contribution aims to show that the fixed ordering of these elements as well as their function in the structure can be accounted for if similative clauses are taken to be prepositional relative clauses with a complex complementizer domain involving at least three CP-projections. Specifically, I show that these elements lexicalize different parts of the relative construction, including the head complex raising to the edge of the similative in line with a head-raising analysis. To support this idea, I will mostly provide data from Dutch and Dutch dialects, although the analysis can (and should) be extended to other Germanic varieties.
Where Did Vessels Come from? A Study of Pottery Provenance from the Site of Velika Humska Čuka, Serbia
Authors: Gajić-Kvaščev Maja , Mladenović Ognjen , Milojević Petar , Bulatović Aleksandar
Published: February 2025

The archaeological materials from the Velika Humska Čuka site on the northern fringe of the Niš Basin in southeastern Serbia were analyzed to reveal the provenance of ceramics and other artifacts. This study focused on the elemental analysis of 61 samples, including local clay pits, potsherds, and whole vessels. Samples were chosen based on stylistic and typological characteristics to distinguish local and “foreign” pottery. Elemental analysis was conducted using energy-dispersive X-ray fluorescence (EDXRF) spectrometry, complemented by principal component analysis (PCA) for data interpretation. Results indicated that the majority of pottery samples, over 80%, were produced using local clay from deposits near the site. However, approximately 20% of the analyzed vessels were made using clay from deposits near the Bubanj site, 8 km south of Velika Humska Čuka. A vessel on a hollow high foot combining stylistic elements of the Bubanj-Hum I group and Early Eneolithic Pannonian groups was made of clay not sourced from any identified local deposits, suggesting its non-local origin. While the predominance of local materials suggests self-sufficient production, the use of non-local clays and stylistic influences highlights long-distance connections and exchanges. The study emphasizes the importance of Velika Humska Čuka in understanding the development of ceramic traditions and the cultural dynamics of the Early Eneolithic in the Central Balkans.
The Effect of Top-of-Rail Products Incorporating Environmentally Acceptable Solid Particles on Friction, Retentivity, Wear and Airborne Particle Emissions of Wheel–Rail Contact
Authors: Boukhris Rahma , Bergseth Ellen , Olofsson Ulf , Leckner Johan , Ardai Roland
Published: February 2025

Excessive friction at the wheel–rail contact can limit the lifespan of the wheels and rails. Meanwhile, insufficient friction can lead to increased braking distance, risking safety. Top-of-Rail (TOR) products are recognised for their potential to achieve intermediate friction levels at the wheel–rail contact and mitigate wear damages. However, the impact of these products on the airborne wear particles emitted from wheel–rail contact is not thoroughly evaluated. High particle concentration levels, particularly on underground train platforms, raise respiratory and cardiovascular health concerns. This research employs a pin-on-disc to study the effect of laboratory (environmentally acceptable) and commercial TOR products on friction, retentivity, wear, and airborne particle emissions at the wheel–rail interface. The results indicated that TOR products with higher retentivity offered a wider interval of desired intermediate friction levels. The TOR products significantly reduced particle emissions compared to the dry condition. TOR products can, therefore, be promising in controlling friction and mitigating wear and particle emissions at the wheel–rail interface. However, to achieve the benefits of these products, it is essential to tailor their chemical composition carefully.
Modified Kibria–Lukman Estimator for the Conway–Maxwell–Poisson Regression Model: Simulation and Application
Authors: Alreshidi Nasser A. , Alrasheedi Masad A. , Lukman Adewale F. , Alrweili Hleil , Farghali Rasha A.
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel estimator that combines the Kibria–Lukman and ridge estimators to address the challenges of multicollinearity in Conway–Maxwell–Poisson (COMP) regression models. The Conventional COMP Maximum Likelihood Estimator (CMLE) is notably susceptible to the adverse effects of multicollinearity, underscoring the necessity for alternative estimation strategies. We comprehensively compare the proposed COMP Modified Kibria–Lukman estimator (CMKLE) against existing methodologies to mitigate multicollinearity effects. Through rigorous Monte Carlo simulations and real-world applications, our results demonstrate that the CMKLE exhibits superior resilience to multicollinearity while consistently achieving lower mean squared error (MSE) values. Additionally, our findings underscore the critical role of larger sample sizes in enhancing estimator performance, particularly in the presence of high multicollinearity and over-dispersion. Importantly, the CMKLE outperforms traditional estimators, including the CMLE, in predictive accuracy, reinforcing the imperative for judicious selection of estimation techniques in statistical modeling.
Proportional Log Survival Model for Discrete Time-to-Event Data
Authors: Franque Tiago Chandiona Ernesto , Cardial Marcílio Ramos Pereira , Nakano Eduardo Yoshio
Published: February 2025

The aim of this work is to propose a proportional log survival model (PLSM) as a discrete alternative to the proportional hazards (PH) model. This paper presents the formulation of PLSM as well as the procedures for verifying its assumption. The parameters of the PLSM are inferred using the maximum likelihood method, and a simulation study was carried out to investigate the usual asymptotic properties of the estimators. The PLSM was illustrated using data on the survival time of leukemia patients, and it was shown to be a viable alternative for modeling discrete survival data in the presence of covariates.
Route Optimization of Hazardous Material Railway Transportation Based on Conditional Value-at-Risk Considering Risk Equity
Authors: Liu Liping , Sun Shilei , Li Shuxia
Published: February 2025

Rail transportation of hazardous material (Hazmat) involves low-probability, and high-consequence risks, requiring strategies that mitigate extreme accident impacts while ensuring fair risk distribution. To address this, we introduce conditional value-at-risk with equity (CVaRE) into railway Hazmats risk assessment, enabling flexible decision-making that balances risk minimization and equity considerations. Unlike conventional models that focus solely on risk reduction, CVaRE incorporates a risk equity goal, ensuring a more balanced distribution of risk across transportation routes. This study develops a novel CVaRE model that replaces fixed threshold constraints with a dynamic risk equity goal, providing greater flexibility in risk distribution adjustments. A k-shortest path-based algorithm was designed to balance extreme risk minimization with equitable risk allocation in route selection. A case study on the Yangtze River Delta railway network validates the model, demonstrating that moderate cost increases can significantly reduce extreme accident risks while achieving fairer risk distribution. Findings also show that direct transportation improves risk equity over transfer-based routes, highlighting the importance of strategic route planning. This research offers practical decision support for transport companies and regulators, helping optimize routes while ensuring cost efficiency and regulatory compliance. It also provides a scientific foundation for risk-equity-based policies, promoting safer, more sustainable Hazmat railway transportation.
Growth of Oxygen Minimum Zones May Indicate Approach of Global Anoxia
Authors: Alhassan Yazeed , Petrovskii Sergei
Published: February 2025

The dynamics of large-scale components of the Earth climate system (tipping elements), particularly the identification of their possible critical transitions and the proximity to the corresponding tipping points, has been attracting considerable attention recently. In this paper, we focus on one specific tipping element, namely ocean anoxia. It has been shown previously that a sufficiently large, ‘over-critical’ increase in the average water temperature can disrupt oxygen production by phytoplankton photosynthesis, hence crossing the tipping point, which would lead to global anoxia. Here, using a conceptual mathematical model of the plankton–oxygen dynamics, we show that this tipping point of global oxygen depletion is going to be preceded by an additional, second tipping point when the Oxygen Minimum Zones (OMZs) start growing. The OMZ growth can, therefore, be regarded as a spatially explicit early warning signal of the global oxygen catastrophe. Interestingly, there is growing empirical evidence that the OMZs have indeed been growing in different parts of the ocean over the last few decades. Thus, this observed OMZ growth may indicate that the second tipping point has already been crossed, and hence, the first tipping point of global ocean anoxia may now be very close.
Imaging Estimation for Liver Damage Using Automated Approach Based on Genetic Programming
Authors: Herrera-Sánchez David , Acosta-Mesa Héctor-Gabriel , Mezura-Montes Efrén , Herrera-Meza Socorro , Rivadeneyra-Domínguez Eduardo , Zamora-Bello Isaac , Almanza-Domínguez María Fernanda
Published: February 2025

Computer vision and image processing have become relevant in recent years due to their capabilities to support different tasks in several areas. Image classification, segmentation, and estimation are relevant issues addressed using various techniques. Imaging estimation is very important and helpful in biological applications. This work proposes a new approach for estimating the damages in the livers of the Wistar rats, using high-resolution RGB images. Instead of using invasive methods to determine the level of damage, the proposal allows us to measure the damage in the livers. The proposal is based on Genetic Programming (GP), the paradigm of evolutionary computing, which has become relevant in recent years for image-processing tasks. It provides flexibility, which allows the use of image processing functions to extract meaningful information from raw images. Furthermore, it allows the configuration of the regression model by performing a hyperparameter tuning to improve estimation performance. The approach includes a new set of functions through which the regression model is configured. Additionally, a set of functions is included to change the color spaces of the images to extract meaningful features from them. The results demonstrate the effectiveness of our approach when making the hyperparameter tuning and the efficiency in dealing with different color spaces, thus achieving the promised results when estimating according to the R2, Mean Average Error (MAE), Mean Squared Error (MSE) and Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE) indicators. The proposed method achieves values higher than 0.5 of R2 and lower than 0.51 of MSE, using different regression models. Additionally, the approach demonstrates that image preprocessing is necessary for improving the model’s performance, which is better than only using raw data where the values of RMSE are greater than 1.5. The lowest MSE value of our proposed method was 0.51, outperforming the methods without preprocessing.
Predictive Capacity of Different Indicators of Adiposity for Metabolic Syndrome in Adults in the City of Trujillo, Peru
Authors: Díaz-Ortega Jorge Luis , Caballero-Vidal Joao , Yupari-Azabache Irma Luz , Sevilla Juan M. Alva , Conde-Parada Nelson Enrique
Published: February 2025

Background and Objectives: Various adiposity indicators have been used to predict metabolic syndrome (MetS). The aim of the present study was to evaluate the predictive ability of known adiposity indicators, such as abdominal girth, girth/height and fat percentage, as well as less commonly used indicators, such as the conicity index (CI), body roundness index (BRI), visceral adiposity index (VAI) and body shape index (ABSI), to predict MetS. Materials and Methods: A total of 261 participants, including family members and graduates of a flagship school in the city of Trujillo, Peru, participated. Metabolic syndrome was assessed according to the harmonised ATP III criteria. ROC curves were analysed for each of the adiposity indicators using SPSS 26.0 statistical software. Results: The prevalence of MetS was found to be 43.4%, with a higher proportion in men (25.8%). The area under the curve (AUC) for the prediction of MetS exceeded a value of 0.8 for VAI, abdominal circumference, circumference/height and relative fat mass in both men and women, with VAI showing the highest values of 0.858 and 0.875 in women and men, with cut-off points for MetS of 2.57 and 1.73, respectively. Conclusions: VAI can be used in the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome during lipid profile and anthropometric assessment.
Comprehensive Performance-Oriented Multi-Objective Optimization of Hemispherical Resonator Structural Parameters
Authors: Liu Xiaohao , Jin Xin , Li Chaojiang , Ma Yumeng , Xu Deshan , Guo Simin
Published: February 2025

The hemispherical resonant gyroscope is the highest-precision solid-state vibration gyroscope, widely applied in aviation, aerospace, marine, and other navigation fields. As the core component of the hemispherical resonant gyroscope, the design of its structural parameters directly influences the key performance parameters of the resonator—specifically, the thermoelastic damping quality factor and the minimum frequency difference from interference modes—affecting the operational accuracy and lifespan of the gyroscope. However, existing research, both domestic and international, has not clarified the effect of structural parameters on performance laws. Thus, studying the mapping relationship between the resonator’s performance and structural parameters is essential for optimization. In this study, a hemispherical resonator with a midplane radius of 10 mm serves as the research object. Based on a high-precision finite element simulation model of an ideal hemispherical resonator, the mechanism of thermoelastic damping and the influence of structural parameters on performance are analyzed. A PSO-BP neural network mapping model is then developed to relate the resonator’s structural and performance parameters. Subsequently, the NSGA-II algorithm is applied to perform multi-objective mapping of these parameters, achieving an optimized resonator with a 4.61% increase in the minimum frequency difference from interference modes and a substantial improvement in thermoelastic damping of approximately 70.41%. The comprehensive, performance-oriented multi-objective optimization method for the structural parameters of hemispherical resonators proposed in this paper offers a cost-effective approach to high-performance design and optimization, and it can also be applied to other manufacturing processes under specific conditions.
Risk Factors for Flares and New Lesions of Hidradenitis Suppurativa Following COVID-19 Disease: A Retrospective Cohort Study of 310 Patients in Greece
Authors: Liakou Aikaterini I. , Tsantes Andreas G. , Bompou Evangelia-Konstantina , Kalamata Magdalini , Agiasofitou Efthymia , Vladeni Soultana , Dragoutsou Angeliki , Tsante Konstantina A. , Ioannou Petros , Chatzidimitriou Eleni , Kotsafti Ourania , Samonis George , Vrioni Georgia , Bonovas Stefanos , Stratigos Alexander I.
Published: February 2025

Background: COVID-19 disease has been associated with flares or new onsets of various autoinflammatory diseases such as psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Our aim is to investigate the occurrence and risk factors of flares or new onsets of Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) following COVID-19 disease. Methods: A retrospective cohort study was performed including 310 patients with HS following COVID-19 disease. Data on the rate of HS flares, new lesions, time of flare onset, and flare duration were recorded. Demographics, clinical characteristics, and treatment parameters were compared between patients with and without HS flares. Results: HS flares developed in 69 (22.2%) patients, with 14 experiencing their first episode. The median period between COVID-19 and flare onset was 17 days, with a median flare duration of 14 days. For new HS onset, the median period was 9.5 days, and the median duration was 13 days. Biologic treatment was less common in patients with flares (7.2% vs. 23.2%, p = 0.003), and fewer patients with flares were vaccinated (81.1% vs. 99.1%, p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed lower risk for flares in those receiving biologics (aOR = 0.14, p = 0.002) and those who were vaccinated (aOR = 0.02, p < 0.001). Conclusions: COVID-19 may trigger HS flares and new onset, with biologic treatment and vaccination offering protection.
Effect of Diet Supplementation with Two Yeast Cultures on Rumen Fermentation Parameters and Microbiota of Fattening Sheep In Vitro
Authors: Nueraihemaiti Gulinizier , Huo Xiangdong , Zhang Huiying , Shi Honglin , Gao Yan , Zeng Jun , Lin Qing , Lou Kai
Published: February 2025

Yeast culture can improve ruminant health and reduce economic losses in intensive farming, but as a non-standardized product in China, its quality and efficacy vary significantly. In this study, a self-developed yeast culture was compared with a commercially available product using in vitro rumen fermentation and amplicon-based high-throughput sequencing to evaluate its effects on rumen fermentation parameters, microbial diversities, and community compositions in Hu sheep. The aim was to validate the efficacy and mechanisms of the self-developed yeast culture, produced with simplified raw materials and processes, on rumen function. The experiment was divided into four groups. In each 60 mL fermentation solution, the following treatments were added: 0.00 g high-concentrate diet (CK1 group, blank control), 0.40 g high-concentrate diet (CK2 group, basal diet control), 0.40 g high-concentrate diet supplemented with 5% XP yeast culture (XP group), and 0.40 g high-concentrate diet supplemented with 5% YC yeast culture (YC group). Gas production was measured every 4 h during fermentation. At the end of fermentation, pH, ammonia nitrogen, microbial protein, volatile fatty acids, and ruminal microbiota were determined. The results demonstrated the following. Compared to the CK2 group, both the XP and YC groups exhibited a significant increase (p < 0.05) in cumulative gas production and microbial protein content, while a significant decrease (p < 0.05) was observed in acetic acid content and the acetate-to-propionate ratio. The microbial protein content in the YC group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that in the XP group. Additionally, the content of valeric acid and isobutyric acid in the XP group was significantly higher (p < 0.05) compared to the other groups. The microbial community sequencing results revealed that the addition of yeast culture did not affect the alpha diversity index of rumen bacteria (p > 0.05); however, the addition of XP significantly reduced (p < 0.05) the richness of rumen fungal communities. At the phylum and genus levels, the relative abundance of multiple functional bacteria improved after adding YC. In summary, under the conditions of in vitro rumen fermentation with high-concentrate diets, adding 5% XP and YC yeast cultures both promoted rumen fermentation. The rumen fermentation type changed from the acetic acid type to the propionic acid type, which regulated rumen microbial composition and thereby improved dietary digestion efficiency. Notably, YC significantly increased the relative abundance of functional microbial communities compared to XP. These findings provide a theoretical and practical foundation for optimizing the large-scale breeding of Hu sheep.
Recent Updates on Terpenoids and Other Bioactive Constituents of Marine Sponges
Authors: Raymond Maggie J. F. , Rakotondraibe Harinantenaina L.
Published: February 2025

Marine sponges are a promising source of bioactive secondary metabolites, contributing hundreds of novel compounds per year to natural product research, each with diverse chemical and biological properties. We have chosen to highlight marine natural products that exhibited unique structural features and/or significant bioactivity. The most common report of pharmacological significance was cytotoxicity, with antimicrobial and enzyme inhibition activities following, and mentions of other attributes, such as anti-inflammation, neuroprotection, and anti-biofilm. This review describes newly isolated constituents from sponges between 2020 and 2023 alongside their relevant pharmacological activity. The isolation, structures, and biological properties of 218 unique secondary metabolites from various chemical families, including terpenoids, peptides, and alkaloids from marine sponges, are covered.
Di-Cyclohexene Oxide Bridged by DDSQ: Preparation, Characterization, and Application as Fillers for Cyanate Ester Resin
Authors: Gao Xiaoye , Gao Wencheng , Lu Dingyi , Xu Riwei
Published: February 2025

In order to improve the dielectric properties of existing thermosetting resins, taking advantage of reactive fillers is a simple and feasible option. In this paper, we synthesized a new double epoxycyclohexane double-decker silsesquioxane (DEDDSQ), in which the structure of aliphatic epoxy resin introduced into DDSQ successfully, and the resulting structure of DEDDESQ is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry (MS). Cyanate ester resin was selected as the case study for the application of DEDDSQ as reactive fillers. A CE/E51/DEDDSQ nanocomposite was fabricated by incorporating a small proportion of E51 resin and DEDDSQ into cyanate ester resin to enhance its comprehensive properties. X-ray diffraction (XRD) and energy-dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analyses demonstrated that DEDDSQ dispersed uniformly within the resin matrix. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) demonstrated that the CE/E51/8.0DEDDSQ nanocomposites exhibit excellent thermal properties. The glass transition temperature (Tg) of the nanocomposite was measured to be 264 °C, indicating its excellent thermal stability. Dielectric property measurements showed that the addition of DEDDSQ reduced the dielectric constant of the cyanate ester resin, with the CE/E51/8.0DEPOSS nanocomposite exhibiting a dielectric constant of 2.47 at 1 MHz.
A Multi-Sensor for Direct and Simultaneous Monitoring of Changes in the Contents of Four Ionic Components
Authors: Niemiec Barbara , Piech Robert , Paczosa-Bator Beata
Published: February 2025

This paper presents the application of a multi-sensor with a renewable surface based on a carbon black paste modified with ruthenium dioxide hydrate for monitoring the concentration changes of four ionic compounds (nitrate, ammonium, sodium, and calcium). By combining these into one sensor body, analyses can be performed simultaneously, based on a single standard curve, on a small number of available samples. The multi-sensor electrodes were characterized by determining both their electrical parameters, using methods such as chronopotentiometry and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and analytical parameters, through a series of potentiometric tests. The electrodes were characterized by high electric charge capacities ranging from 80 µF for the sodium electrode to 257 µF for the nitrate electrode. The tested electrodes showed calibration curve slopes of −51.1 mV/dec for the nitrate electrode, 59.3 mV/dec for the ammonium electrode, 57.0 mV/dec for the sodium electrode, and 26.0 mV/dec for the calcium electrode. The multi-sensor parameters allow for free determination of ions of biological significance in river water samples, soil samples, and plant substrates. The multi-sensor presented in this work can be successfully used to analyze water or plant substrates at home or among commercial crops.
Harnessing Stevia rebaudiana for Zinc Oxide Nanoparticle Green Synthesis: A Sustainable Solution to Combat Multidrug-Resistant Bacterial Pathogens
Authors: Elabbasy Mohamed Tharwat , El Bayomi Rasha M. , Abdelkarim Esraa A. , Hafez Abd El-Salam E. , Othman Mohamed S. , Ghoniem Mohamed E. , Samak Mai A. , Alshammari Muteb H. , Almarshadi Fahad Awwadh , Elsamahy Tamer , Hussein Mohamed A.
Published: February 2025

The rise of multidrug-resistant (MDR) bacteria in food products poses a significant threat to public health, necessitating innovative and sustainable antimicrobial solutions. This study investigates the green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles (ZnO-NPs) using Stevia rebaudiana extracts to evaluate their antibacterial and antibiofilm activities against MDR Staphylococcus aureus strains isolated from sold fish samples. The obtained results show that the contamination with S. aureus reached 54.2% in the tested fish samples (n = 120), underscoring the urgent need for effective interventions. ZnO-NPs were successfully synthesized and characterized using UV-visible spectroscopy, FT-IR, XRD, and TEM, confirming their formation with an average size of 15.7 nm and reflecting their suitability for antimicrobial and biological applications. ZnO-NPs exhibited potent antibacterial activity, with a maximum inhibition zone of 24.4 ± 0.4 mm at 20 μg/disk, MIC values of 6.25–25 μg/mL, and MBC values of 12.5–50 μg/mL. Additionally, biofilm formation was inhibited by up to 92.1% at 250 μg/mL. Our mechanistic study confirmed that ZnO-NPs damage bacterial membranes and DNA, leading to the intracellular leakage of cell components that lead to bacterial cell lysis. The use of S. rebaudiana in ZnO-NP synthesis aligns with green chemistry principles, offering an eco-friendly alternative to conventional antibiotics and enhancing the bioactivity of ZnO-NPs, and may address the growing issue of antimicrobial resistance, thereby contributing to improved food safety and public health protection.
Nano Cobalt-Loaded Porous Carbon Derived from Waste Plastic for Efficient Persulfate Activation and Tetracycline Degradation
Authors: Luo Yueyue , Zhang Xiuxiu , Zhang Yu , Wang Jianchao , Wang Chongqing
Published: February 2025

The excessive utilization and emission of waste plastics have caused serious damage to the environment, and it is of great significance to explore high-value utilization methods for these waste plastics. To address this challenge, functional nano cobalt-loaded porous carbon materials (CoPC) with excellent antibiotic wastewater removal properties were prepared by one-step pyrolysis using waste PET plastics as a carbon source, a process described in this paper. Characterization revealed that the obtained CoPC-2 catalysts had a high degree of defects, a large specific surface area (343.41 m2/g), and an abundant pore structure. Degradation results displayed that CoPC-2 removed 87.93% of 20 mg/L tetracycline with a reaction rate constant of 0.0668 min−1. Moreover, CoPC-2 exhibited excellent degradation performance for tetracycline over a wide range of pH levels (4–10) and in coexistence with multiple inorganic anions. Electron paramagnetic resonance and radical quenching experiments revealed that radicals (·OH, and SO4·−) and non-radicals (1O2) pathway participated in tetracycline degradation, with the non-radical pathway being dominant. This study not only offers promising prospects for resource utilization of waste plastics, but also provides novel approaches for the design of functional nanomaterials for antibiotic wastewater treatment.
Natural Appetite Control: Food-Derived Aromas as Appetite Decreasing Agents—A Proof-of-Concept Study
Authors: Godyla-Jabłoński Michaela , Pachura Natalia , Klemens Marta , Wolska Julia , Łyczko Jacek
Published: February 2025

Background and Objective: The global population is struggling with significant health challenges, among which overweight and obesity stand out. Currently, 61% of adults and 7.5% of children and adolescents are affected, underscoring the urgent need for effective solutions. This study evaluated appetite-reducing prototypes related with food products, focusing on their ability to influence appetite through the sense of smell. The objective was to determine the effectiveness of these prototypes and identify the most promising candidates for further research. Methods: A questionnaire-based consumer survey was performed for six appetite-reducing agents. Forty-five participants with elevated body mass index values (BMI ≥ 25) were asked to verify the samples in terms of aroma intensity, pleasure, and potential for appetite reduction. Also, qualitative parameters such as the identification of the samples’ food associations was performed within the questionnaire. The questionnaire results were further compared with headspace solid-phase microextraction (HS-SPME Arrow) analysis results to identify volatile organic compounds associated with appetite-reducing properties. Results: The proof-of-concept study revealed that prototypes with unpleasant and irritating aromas demonstrated the highest appetite-reducing potential, scoring approximately 24 out of 35 points. Conversely, prototypes with pleasant, dessert-like aromas showed lower effectiveness, scoring between 14 and 18 points. Conclusions: By linking consumer perceptions to chemical analyses, we identified effective prototypes for further investigation, including studies measuring actual food intake. These findings contribute to developing innovative, non-invasive strategies to address overweight and obesity, offering a new dimension to appetite control through sensory modulation.
Organ-Specific Responses to Chronic High-Fat Diets in Mice: Insights into Phospholipid Fatty Acid Distribution
Authors: Nenadovic Aleksandra , Kovacevic Sanjin , Stankovic Anica , Popovic Tamara , Debeljak Martacic Jasmina , Rankovic Slavica , De Luka Silvio R. , Milasin Jelena , Nesovic Ostojic Jelena
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: This research aimed to investigate phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) distribution in the brain, kidneys, and white adipose tissue (WAT) and lipid profiles in response to high-fat diets. Methods: Adult female C57BL/6 mice were fed high-fat diets containing 25% linseed, palm, or sunflower oil for 100 days. The fatty acid composition of dietary oils and tissue PL were analyzed using gas–liquid chromatography. Results: Linseed oil increased n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) with subsequent conversion into long-chain n-3 PUFAs in the brain and kidney PL, while only alpha-linolenic acid was elevated in WAT. Palm and sunflower oils resulted in unique PLFA distributions in the kidneys and WAT. Palm oil raised linoleic acid without conversion to pro-inflammatory n-6 PUFAs. Sunflower oil increased saturated palmitic acid, as opposed to the rise in monounsaturated oleic acid. Linseed oil also significantly improved lipid profiles, reducing LDL and increasing HDL levels while enhancing cardiovascular indices. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that dietary oils significantly impact organ-specific PLFA profiles, with linseed oil enriching brain and renal n-3 PUFAs, while palm and sunflower oils induce distinct modifications in the kidney and WAT. Moreover, linseed oil offers notable cardioprotective benefits due to the favorable lipid profile changes. These findings highlight the importance of dietary fat selection in achieving balanced lipid metabolism and suggest that diverse oil combinations may be essential for optimizing health outcomes.
Relevance of Milk Composition to Human Longitudinal Growth from Infancy Through Puberty: Facts and Controversies
Authors: Borer Katarina T.
Published: February 2025

Milk is the principal nutrient of newborn humans and a diagnostic feature of the order Mammalia. Its release is elicited as a reflex by infant sucking under the control of the hormone oxytocin. While it is recognized that breast milk optimally promotes infant longitudinal growth and development, this review explores facts and controversies regarding the extent to which the milks of several dairy animals and infant formula milk (IF) approximate special properties and bioactivities of breast milk. It also provides evidence that early exposure to undernutrition during the very rapid fetal and early infancy growth predominantly and permanently stunts longitudinal growth trajectory in both animals and humans and is often followed in later life by obesity and metabolic dysfunction, and sometimes also by precocious timing of sexual maturation. There is a knowledge gap as to whether there may be additional critical periods of nutritional vulnerability in human development, which is characterized by a relatively prolonged period of slow childhood growth bracketed by the rapid fetal–neonatal and pubertal growth spurts. It is also unclear whether any quantitative differences in caloric intake and supply during neonatal period may influence developmental fatness programming. A further knowledge gap exists regarding the role of infant microbiome composition and development in the possible epigenetic programming of longitudinal growth or fatness in later life. Extending the research of early developmental programming to the entire period of human growth from conception to the end of puberty, examining infant caloric intake and supply as possible factors modulating the epigenetic programming in favor of obesity, and examining the role of infant gut microbiome in developing infant’s capacity to process nutrients may provide a better understanding of the interaction between critical nutritional influences in the control of human longitudinal growth and later-life obesity.
Air Pollution-Associated Rhinitis: Exploring the Preventive Role of Nutritional Supplements Against Particulate Matter-Induced Inflammation
Authors: Chen Shih-Wei , Tsai Stella Chin-Shaw , Chang Kuang-Hsi , Chuang Kai-Cheng , Sufian Muhammad , Fan Hueng-Chuen , Chen Chuan-Mu
Published: February 2025

Air pollution, particularly particulate matter (PM), poses a significant health risk worldwide, with rhinitis emerging as a prevalent respiratory condition. This review explores the association between air pollution and rhinitis, focusing on PM-induced inflammation and the potential preventive role of nutritional supplements. A comprehensive literature search was conducted using the PubMed and Scopus databases, covering studies from inception to 2024 that investigated air pollution, rhinitis, and nutritional interventions. This review synthesizes evidence linking PM exposure to increased prevalence and exacerbation of rhinitis through various inflammatory mechanisms. We further examine the potential of nutritional supplements, including kefir peptides, lactoferrin, vitamin D, polyunsaturated fatty acids, and probiotics, in mitigating PM-induced inflammation and rhinitis symptoms. However, the evidence regarding the role of these supplements in modulating immune responses and reducing inflammation related to PM-induced rhinitis is limited. This review highlights the potential efficacy of nutritional interventions in preventing and managing air pollution-associated rhinitis, offering a complementary approach to environmental regulations in addressing this public health challenge.
Low Plasma Choline, High Trimethylamine Oxide, and Altered Phosphatidylcholine Subspecies Are Prevalent in Cystic Fibrosis Patients with Pancreatic Insufficiency
Authors: Bernhard Wolfgang , Shunova Anna , Boriga Julia , Graepler-Mainka Ute , Hilberath Johannes
Published: February 2025

Background: Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency in cystic fibrosis (CF) increases fecal choline losses, but the postnatal course of plasma choline and its metabolites in these patients is unknown. While choline homeostasis is crucial for cellular, bile, and lipoprotein metabolism, via phosphatidylcholine (PC) and via betaine as a methyl donor, choline deficiency is associated with impaired lung and liver function, including hepatic steatosis. Objective: The goal of our study was to evaluate the plasma levels of choline, betaine, trimethylamine oxide (TMAO), PC, and PC subclasses in CF patients from infancy to adulthood and compare those with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency (EPI) to those with pancreatic sufficiency (EPS). Methods: Retrospective analysis of target parameters in plasma samples (July 2015–November 2023) of CF patients (0.64–24.6 years) with tandem mass spectrometry. Results: A total of 477 samples from 162 CF patients were analyzed. In CF patients with EPI (N = 148), plasma choline and betaine concentrations were lower and decreased with age compared to EPS patients showing normal values. TMAO concentrations, indicating intestinal choline degradation by bacterial colonization, were frequently elevated in EPI from infancy onwards, and inversely related to plasma choline and betaine levels. PC-containing linoleic acid levels were lower in EPI, but arachidonic and docosahexaenoic acid content was similar in both patient groups. Conclusion: CF patients with EPI are at risk of choline and betaine deficiency compared to exocrine pancreas-sufficient CF patients. Elevated TMAO concentrations in EPI patients indicate increased bacterial colonization leading to choline degradation before absorption. These findings indicate that laboratory testing of choline, betaine, and TMAO as well as clinical trials on choline supplementation are warranted in CF patients.
Recent Insights into the Pathogenesis, Diagnostics, and Treatment of BK Virus Infections in Children After Hematopoietic Stem Cell Transplantation
Authors: Peras Mislav , Bilić Ernest , Mareković Ivana
Published: February 2025

BK polyomavirus (BKPyV) is a pathogen responsible for infectious complications in hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients. This review aims to give an insight into recent data about the structure and genomic organization, epidemiology, clinical manifestations, diagnosis, and current treatment options of BKPyV infections in children after HSCT. News regarding viral replication and pathogenesis include the generation of miRNA, new mechanisms of viral shedding by releasing infectious particles via extracellular vesicles, and human bladder microvascular endothelial cells probably acting as viral reservoirs enabling low-level viral replication and persistence. In studies conducted over the past five years, BKPyV hemorrhagic cystitis (BKPyV-HC) has a prevalence rate of 4 to 27% in children undergoing HSCT. Diagnostics still has unsolved dilemmas like whole blood or plasma samples as well as the standardization of molecular methods to allow for reporting in international units. In terms of treatment, new approaches have been used in the past five years, including the use of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), virus-specific T cells (VSTs), and recombinant human keratinocyte growth factor (rH-KGF), although the efficacy of some of these treatments has only been documented in isolated studies. This complication continues to pose a substantial clinical challenge, characterized by an absence of effective preventive and therapeutic measures.