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25 pages, 3822 KiB  
Article
Comparative Transcriptome and MicroRNA Profiles of Equine Mesenchymal Stem Cells, Fibroblasts, and Their Extracellular Vesicles
by Sebastian Sawicki, Monika Bugno-Poniewierska, Jakub Żurowski, Tomasz Szmatoła, Ewelina Semik-Gurgul, Michał Bochenek, Elżbieta Karnas and Artur Gurgul
Genes 2025, 16(8), 936; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16080936 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising tool in regenerative medicine due to their ability to secrete paracrine factors that modulate tissue repair. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by MSCs contain bioactive molecules (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) and play a key role in [...] Read more.
Background: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are a promising tool in regenerative medicine due to their ability to secrete paracrine factors that modulate tissue repair. Extracellular vesicles (EVs) released by MSCs contain bioactive molecules (e.g., mRNAs, miRNAs, proteins) and play a key role in intercellular communication. Methods: This study compared the transcriptomic profiles (mRNA and miRNA) of equine MSCs derived from adipose tissue (AT-MSCs), bone marrow (BM-MSCs), and ovarian fibroblasts (as a differentiated control). Additionally, miRNAs present in EVs secreted by these cells were characterized using next-generation sequencing. Results: All cell types met ISCT criteria for MSCs, including CD90 expression, lack of MHC II, trilineage differentiation, and adherence. EVs were isolated using ultracentrifugation and validated with nanoparticle tracking analysis and flow cytometry (CD63, CD81). Differential expression analysis revealed distinct mRNA and miRNA profiles across cell types and their secreted EVs, correlating with tissue origin. BM-MSCs showed unique regulation of genes linked to early development and osteogenesis. EVs contained diverse RNA species, including miRNA, mRNA, lncRNA, rRNA, and others. In total, 227 and 256 mature miRNAs were detected in BM-MSCs and AT-MSCs, respectively, including two novel miRNAs per MSC type. Fibroblasts expressed 209 mature miRNAs, including one novel miRNA also found in MSCs. Compared to fibroblasts, 60 and 92 differentially expressed miRNAs were identified in AT-MSCs and BM-MSCs, respectively. Conclusions: The results indicate that MSC tissue origin influences both transcriptomic profiles and EV miRNA content, which may help to interpret their therapeutic potential. Identifying key mRNAs and miRNAs could aid in future optimizing of MSC-based therapies in horses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Animal Genetics and Genomics)
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13 pages, 857 KiB  
Article
Orange Allergy Beyond LTP: IgE Recognition of Germin-like Proteins in Citrus Fruits
by M. Soledad Zamarro Parra, Montserrat Martínez-Gomaríz, Alan Hernández, Javier Alcover, Isabel Dobski, David Rodríguez, Ricardo Palacios and Antonio Carbonell
Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(8), 621; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47080621 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Orange allergy is estimated to account for up to 3–4% of food allergies. Major allergens identified in orange (Citrus sinensis) include Cit s 1 (germin-like protein) and Cit s 2 (profilin), while Cit s 3 (non-specific lipid transfer protein, nsLTP) and [...] Read more.
Orange allergy is estimated to account for up to 3–4% of food allergies. Major allergens identified in orange (Citrus sinensis) include Cit s 1 (germin-like protein) and Cit s 2 (profilin), while Cit s 3 (non-specific lipid transfer protein, nsLTP) and Cit s 7 (gibberellin-regulated protein) have also been described. The objective of this study was to investigate the presence and IgE-binding capacity of germin-like proteins in citrus fruits other than oranges. We describe five patients with immediate allergic reactions after orange ingestion. All patients underwent skin prick tests (SPT) to aeroallergens and common food allergens, prick-by-prick testing with orange, lemon, and mandarin (pulp, peel, seeds), total IgE, specific IgE (sIgE), anaphylaxis scoring (oFASS), and the Food Allergy Quality of Life Questionnaire (FAQLQ-AF). Protein extracts from peel and pulp of orange, lemon, and mandarin were analyzed by Bradford assay, SDS-PAGE, and IgE immunoblotting using patient sera. Selected bands were identified by peptide mass fingerprinting. A 23 kDa band was recognized by all five patients in orange (pulp and peel), lemon (peel), and mandarin (peel). This band was consistent with Cit s 1, a germin-like protein already annotated in the IUIS allergen database for orange but not for lemon or mandarin. Peptide fingerprinting confirmed the germin-like identity of the 23 kDa bands in all three citrus species. Germin-like proteins of approximately 23 kDa were identified as IgE-binding components in peel extracts of orange, lemon, and mandarin, and in orange pulp. These findings suggest a potential shared allergen across citrus species that may contribute to allergic reactions independent of LTP sensitization. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Molecular Plant Sciences)
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19 pages, 5767 KiB  
Article
In Silico Evaluation of Effect and Molecular Modeling of SNPs in Genes Related to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
by Gustavo Ronconi Roza, Caroline Christine Pincela da Costa, Nayane Soares de Lima, Angela Adamski da Silva Reis and Rodrigo da Silva Santos
Sclerosis 2025, 3(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/sclerosis3030027 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a systemic, complex, multifactorial, and fatal neurodegenerative disease with various factors involved in its etiology. This study aimed to understand the effects of SNPs in the MTHFR, MTR, SLC19A1, and VAPB genes on protein functionality and structure [...] Read more.
Background: Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis is a systemic, complex, multifactorial, and fatal neurodegenerative disease with various factors involved in its etiology. This study aimed to understand the effects of SNPs in the MTHFR, MTR, SLC19A1, and VAPB genes on protein functionality and structure and their influence on ALS susceptibility. Methods: The dbSNP and ClinVar databases were used for SNP data annotation, while UniProt and PDB provided protein sequences. We performed functional and structural predictions of SNPs using PolyPhen-2 and SNAP2. We modeled mutant proteins using AlphaFold 2 and visualized them in PyMOL to compare native and mutant forms. Results: Our results identified SNP rs74315431 as pathogenic, inducing structural and functional changes and exhibiting visible alterations in the three-dimensional structure. Although predicted as non-pathogenic, SNPs rs1801131, rs1805087, and rs1051266 caused protein structural alterations, a finding confirmed by three-dimensional visualization. SNP rs1801133 diverged from the others, being predicted as pathogenic but without causing changes in protein structure or function. Conclusions: Our study found a strong correlation between SNAP2-predicted alterations and those predicted by AlphaFold 2, whereas PolyPhen-2 results did not directly correlate with three-dimensional structure changes. Full article
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19 pages, 457 KiB  
Article
Can FinTech Close the VAT Gap? An Entrepreneurial, Behavioral, and Technological Analysis of Tourism SMEs
by Konstantinos S. Skandalis and Dimitra Skandali
FinTech 2025, 4(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech4030038 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Governments worldwide are mandating e-invoicing and real-time VAT reporting, yet many cash-intensive service SMEs continue to under-report VAT, eroding fiscal revenues. This study investigates whether financial technology (FinTech) adoption can reduce this under-reporting among tourism SMEs in Greece—an economy with high seasonal spending [...] Read more.
Governments worldwide are mandating e-invoicing and real-time VAT reporting, yet many cash-intensive service SMEs continue to under-report VAT, eroding fiscal revenues. This study investigates whether financial technology (FinTech) adoption can reduce this under-reporting among tourism SMEs in Greece—an economy with high seasonal spending and a persistent shadow economy. This is the first micro-level empirical study to examine how FinTech tools affect VAT compliance in this sector, offering novel insights into how technology interacts with behavioral factors to influence fiscal behavior. Drawing on the Technology Acceptance Model, deterrence theory, and behavioral tax compliance frameworks, we surveyed 214 hotels, guesthouses, and tour operators across Greece’s main tourism regions. A structured questionnaire measured five constructs: FinTech adoption, VAT compliance behavior, tax morale, perceived audit probability, and financial performance. Using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling and bootstrapped moderation–mediation analysis, we find that FinTech adoption significantly improves declared VAT, with compliance fully mediating its impact on financial outcomes. The effect is especially strong among businesses led by owners with high tax morale or strong perceptions of audit risk. These findings suggest that FinTech tools function both as efficiency enablers and behavioral nudges. The results support targeted policy actions such as subsidies for e-invoicing, tax compliance training, and transparent audit communication. By integrating technological and psychological dimensions, the study contributes new evidence to the digital fiscal governance literature and offers a practical framework for narrowing the VAT gap in tourism-driven economies. Full article
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9 pages, 781 KiB  
Article
Absence of Sulfur Fertilization at Establishment in Urochloa brizantha Cultivars
by Carlos Eduardo Avelino Cabral, Luis Carlos Oliveira Borges, Anna Cláudia Cardoso Paimel, Eildson Souza de Oliveira Silva, Izabela Aline Gomes da Silva, Camila Fernandes Domingues Duarte, Lucas Gimenes Mota, Anne Caroline Dallabrida Avelino and Carla Heloisa Avelino Cabral
Grasses 2025, 4(3), 31; https://doi.org/10.3390/grasses4030031 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Sulfur-containing fertilizers increase production costs, which leads to low utilization of this nutrient. Thus, evaluating how the absence of sulfur influences the early development of Urochloa brizantha is essential. Study was conducted in a greenhouse at the Federal University of Rondonópolis in a [...] Read more.
Sulfur-containing fertilizers increase production costs, which leads to low utilization of this nutrient. Thus, evaluating how the absence of sulfur influences the early development of Urochloa brizantha is essential. Study was conducted in a greenhouse at the Federal University of Rondonópolis in a completely randomized design, with six treatments in a 3 × 2 factorial scheme, and eight replications. Three cultivars of U. brizantha (Marandu, Xaraés and Piatã) were evaluated under two fertilization strategies: with or without sulfur fertilization. Sufur presence increased the number of leaves and forage mass, in which cultivar Xaraés presented the greatest means. Piatã was the cultivar most sensitive to sulfur deficiency at establishment, which reduced forage mass, number of leaves and number of tillers by 42%, 32%, and 45%, respectively. Despite these differences between cultivars, sulfur efficiently increased the forage yield. Sulfur fertilization increased the concentrations of nutrients in the plants without significantly affecting the uptake of nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium and magnesium. Sulfur omission resulted in increased phosphorus uptake in all grass. In contrast, Marandu grass exhibited the greatest reduction in sulfur uptake. Therefore, the use of sulfur in the fertilization of grasses is recommended, it is important to evaluate the responses of each cultivar to better adjust the fertilization management. Full article
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17 pages, 913 KiB  
Article
The Effects of CBDCs on Mobile Money and Outstanding Loans: Evidence from the eNaira and SandDollar Experiences
by Francisco Elieser Giraldo-Gordillo and Ricardo Bustillo-Mesanza
FinTech 2025, 4(3), 39; https://doi.org/10.3390/fintech4030039 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper measures the post-treatment effects of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) on mobile money and outstanding loans from commercial banks as a percentage of the GDP in Nigeria and the Bahamas, respectively, from the perspective of financial inclusion. The literature on the [...] Read more.
This paper measures the post-treatment effects of Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs) on mobile money and outstanding loans from commercial banks as a percentage of the GDP in Nigeria and the Bahamas, respectively, from the perspective of financial inclusion. The literature on the topic has primarily focused on the technological specifications of CBDCs and their potential future implementation. This article addresses a gap in the empirical literature by examining the effects of CBDCs. To this end, a Synthetic Control Method (SCM) is applied to the Bahamas (SandDollar) and Nigeria (eNaira) to construct a counterfactual scenario and assess the impact of CBDCs on mobile money and commercial bank loans. Nigeria’s mobile money transactions as a percentage of the GDP increased significantly compared to the synthetic control group, suggesting a notable positive effect of the eNaira. Conversely, in the Bahamas, actual performance fell below the synthetic control, implying that SandDollar may have contributed to a decline in outstanding loans. These results suggest that CBDCs could pose a “deposit substitution risk” for commercial banks. However, they may also enhance the performance of other Fintech tools, as observed in the case of mobile money. As CBDC implementations worldwide remain in their early stages, their long-term effects require further analysis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Fintech Innovations: Transforming the Financial Landscape)
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15 pages, 534 KiB  
Review
Evolving Treatment Paradigms in Metastatic Hormone-Sensitive Prostate Cancer: Expert Narrative Review
by Vineet Talwar, Kaushal Kalra, Akhil Kapoor, P. S. Dattatreya, Amit Joshi, Krishna Chaitanya, M. V. Chandrakanth, Atul Batra, Krishna Prasad, Nikhil Haridas and Nilesh Lokeshwar
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(8), 437; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32080437 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The treatment landscape of metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) has transformed significantly with the advent of triplet therapy involving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), docetaxel, and androgen receptor signalling inhibitors (ARSIs). While clinical guidelines increasingly support early intensification, real-world practice remains challenged by patient [...] Read more.
The treatment landscape of metastatic hormone-sensitive prostate cancer (mHSPC) has transformed significantly with the advent of triplet therapy involving androgen deprivation therapy (ADT), docetaxel, and androgen receptor signalling inhibitors (ARSIs). While clinical guidelines increasingly support early intensification, real-world practice remains challenged by patient heterogeneity, evolving evidence, and limited consensus on treatment sequencing. This narrative review integrates evidence from landmark trials, clinical guidelines, and expert insights from oncologists managing mHSPC in India. Findings affirm that triplet therapy, particularly with darolutamide, improves survival in high-volume disease and underscores the need for personalized treatment based on disease burden, comorbidities, and genomic profiles. The review also highlights gaps in real-world data, sequencing strategies, and biomarker-driven therapy, reinforcing the need for precision medicine and locally relevant evidence to guide treatment. Ultimately, optimizing mHSPC management requires harmonizing guideline-based approaches with individualized, real-world decision making to improve patient outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Genitourinary Oncology)
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13 pages, 2224 KiB  
Article
Digital Eye Strain Monitoring for One-Hour Smartphone Engagement Through Eye Activity Measurement System
by Bhanu Priya Dandumahanti, Prithvi Krishna Chittoor and Murali Subramaniyam
J. Eye Mov. Res. 2025, 18(4), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/jemr18040034 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Smartphones have revolutionized our daily lives, becoming portable pocket computers with easy internet access. India, the second-highest smartphone and internet user, experienced a significant rise in smartphone usage between 2013 and 2024. Prolonged smartphone use, exceeding 20 min at a time, can lead [...] Read more.
Smartphones have revolutionized our daily lives, becoming portable pocket computers with easy internet access. India, the second-highest smartphone and internet user, experienced a significant rise in smartphone usage between 2013 and 2024. Prolonged smartphone use, exceeding 20 min at a time, can lead to physical and mental health issues, including psychophysiological disorders. Digital devices and their extended exposure to blue light cause digital eyestrain, sleep disorders and visual-related problems. This research examines the impact of 1 h smartphone usage on visual fatigue among young Indian adults. A portable, low-cost system has been developed to measure visual activity to address this. The developed visual activity measurement system measures blink rate, inter-blink interval, and pupil diameter. Measured eye activity was recorded during 1 h smartphone usage of e-book reading, video watching, and social-media reels (short videos). Social media reels show increased screen variations, affecting pupil dilation and reducing blink rate due to continuous screen brightness and intensity changes. This reduction in blink rate and increase in inter-blink interval or pupil dilation could lead to visual fatigue. Full article
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8 pages, 2701 KiB  
Case Report
A Drop of Blood to Lead the Way
by Theodora A. M. Claushuis, Marielle J. Wondergem, Henriette B. Beverloo, Marise R. Heerma van Voss, Remco J. Molenaar, Maud Zwolsman, Fleur M. van der Valk, Hans L. Mooij, Lianne Koens and Sanne H. Tonino
Hematol. Rep. 2025, 17(4), 40; https://doi.org/10.3390/hematolrep17040040 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Significances: In patients with Epstein–Barr virus-driven hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (EBV-HLH), identifying the underlying cause poses a significant diagnostic challenge. HLH may precede overt disease, and early directed treatment for HLH can obscure histopathological findings. A liquid biopsy enables the detection of tumor-derived [...] Read more.
Background and Significances: In patients with Epstein–Barr virus-driven hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (EBV-HLH), identifying the underlying cause poses a significant diagnostic challenge. HLH may precede overt disease, and early directed treatment for HLH can obscure histopathological findings. A liquid biopsy enables the detection of tumor-derived DNA from various sources, including cell-free DNA, circulating tumor cells, extracellular vesicles, and tumor-educated platelets, and might aid in this setting. Case Presentation: This case presents a young patient with EBV-HLH, in which genomic analysis of tumor-derived DNA from circulating tumor cells led to the diagnosis of an EBV-positive NK/T-cell lymphoma—where conventional tissue biopsies had failed. Conclusions: This report underscores the potential of the liquid biopsy as a valuable diagnostic tool in complex cases of EBV-HLH. Full article
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12 pages, 246 KiB  
Article
Tobacco-Free Schools in Practice: Policy Presence and Enforcement in Baltimore Schools
by Chidubem Egboluche, Rifath Ara Alam Barsha, Shervin Assari, Michelle Mercure, Marc Laveau, Oluwatosin Olateju and Payam Sheikhattari
Adv. Respir. Med. 2025, 93(4), 28; https://doi.org/10.3390/arm93040028 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: School-based tobacco control policies are critical for preventing youth tobacco use. While many districts adopt formal policies to create smoke- and vape-free environments, the degree to which these policies are enforced at the school level may vary, influencing their effectiveness. Little is [...] Read more.
Background: School-based tobacco control policies are critical for preventing youth tobacco use. While many districts adopt formal policies to create smoke- and vape-free environments, the degree to which these policies are enforced at the school level may vary, influencing their effectiveness. Little is known about how consistently such policies are implemented across schools within urban school districts. Objectives: This study aimed to examine the existence and enforcement of school-level tobacco control policies in an urban public school system, using Baltimore City schools as a case example. Methods: We conducted a survey of school personnel from 20 high schools in Baltimore City in 2024. The survey instrument assessed the presence and enforcement of policies related to tobacco use prevention, communication, signage, disciplinary actions, and institutional support. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were used to summarize responses. Spearman correlations were also used for bivariate correlations. Additional school-level and neighborhood-level contextual data were collected from the internet (neighborhood socioeconomic status and school performance). Results: While many policies existed across the 20 participating schools, their enforcement was widely inconsistent. Most schools reported the existence of policies prohibiting tobacco use in school buildings (60%) and vehicles (55%). However, few schools had visible tobacco-free signage (35%) or offered cessation programs (15%). Communication of policies to students (70%) and staff (65%) was the most commonly enforced aspect of tobacco control policies. Conclusions: Findings suggest that while tobacco control policies may be adopted across urban school systems, their enforcement at the school level remains uneven. Greater attention may be needed to support policy implementation and to reduce variability in school-level practices. Baltimore City serves as a useful case study to understand these challenges and identify opportunities for strengthening school-based tobacco prevention efforts. Full article
11 pages, 261 KiB  
Article
Investigation of the P1104A/TYK2 Genetic Variant in a COVID-19 Patient Cohort from Southern Brazil
by Giulianna Sonnenstrahl, Eduarda Sgarioni, Mayara Jorgens Prado, Marilea Furtado Feira, Renan Cezar Sbruzzi, Bibiana S. O. Fam, Alessandra Helena Da Silva Hellwig, Nathan Araujo Cadore, Osvaldo Artigalás, Alexandre da Costa Pereira, Lygia V. Pereira, Tábita Hünemeier and Fernanda Sales Luiz Vianna
COVID 2025, 5(8), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/covid5080126 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The P1104A variant in the TYK2 gene is recognized as the first common monogenic cause of tuberculosis, and recent studies also suggest a potential role in COVID-19 severity. However, its frequency and impact in admixed Latin American populations remain underexplored. Therefore, we investigated [...] Read more.
The P1104A variant in the TYK2 gene is recognized as the first common monogenic cause of tuberculosis, and recent studies also suggest a potential role in COVID-19 severity. However, its frequency and impact in admixed Latin American populations remain underexplored. Therefore, we investigated the P1104A/TYK2 variant in a cohort comprising 1826 RT-PCR-confirmed COVID-19 patients from Southern Brazil. Cases were stratified by severity into non-severe (n = 1190) and severe (n = 636). Three homozygous individuals were identified—one non-severe and two severe cases—although no statistically significant association with disease severity was observed. The frequency of the C allele in the COVID-19 cohort (2.85%) was significantly higher than in Brazilian population databases, including “DNA do Brasil” (1.81%, p < 0.001) and ABraOM (2.34%, p = 0.03), but lower than in the multi-ancestry gnomAD database (3.71%, p = 0.01), possibly reflecting ancestry bias. We also observed associations between COVID-19 severity and sex (p = 0.003), age (p < 0.001), obesity (p < 0.001), diabetes (p < 0.001), and hypertension (p < 0.001). Future studies in larger and more diverse cohorts are needed to characterize the prevalence of the variant in admixed populations and assess its contribution to COVID-19 susceptibility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Host Genetics and Susceptibility/Resistance)
13 pages, 1841 KiB  
Article
Valorizing Biomass Waste: Hydrothermal Carbonization and Chemical Activation for Activated Carbon Production
by Fidel Vallejo, Diana Yánez, Luis Díaz-Robles, Marcelo Oyaneder, Serguei Alejandro-Martín, Rasa Zalakeviciute and Tamara Romero
Biomass 2025, 5(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomass5030045 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study optimizes the production of activated carbons from hydrothermally carbonized (HTC) biomass using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as activating agents. A 23 factorial experimental design evaluated the effects of agent-to-precursor ratio, dry impregnation time, [...] Read more.
This study optimizes the production of activated carbons from hydrothermally carbonized (HTC) biomass using potassium hydroxide (KOH) and phosphoric acid (H3PO4) as activating agents. A 23 factorial experimental design evaluated the effects of agent-to-precursor ratio, dry impregnation time, and activation duration on mass yield and iodine adsorption capacity. KOH-activated carbons achieved superior iodine numbers (up to 1289 mg/g) but lower mass yields (18–35%), reflecting enhanced porosity at the cost of material loss. Conversely, H3PO4 activation yielded higher mass retention (up to 54.86%) with moderate iodine numbers (up to 1117.3 mg/g), balancing porosity and yield. HTC pretreatment at 190 °C reduced the ash content, thereby enhancing the stability of hydrochar. These findings highlight the trade-offs between adsorption performance and process efficiency, with KOH suited for high-porosity applications (e.g., water purification) and H3PO4 for industrial scalability. The study advances biomass waste valorization, aligning with circular economy principles and offering sustainable solutions for environmental and industrial applications, such as water purification and energy storage. Full article
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14 pages, 1058 KiB  
Article
Sex- and Age-Specific Utilization Patterns of Nuclear Medicine Procedures at a Public Tertiary Hospital in Jamaica
by Tracia-Gay Kennedy-Dixon, Mellanie Didier, Fedrica Paul, Andre Gordon, Marvin Reid and Maxine Gossell-Williams
Hospitals 2025, 2(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/hospitals2030021 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Understanding the utilization patterns of nuclear medicine (NM) services is essential for optimizing resource allocation and service provision. This study aimed to address the regional evidence gap by reporting the demand for NM services by sex and age at a public hospital in [...] Read more.
Understanding the utilization patterns of nuclear medicine (NM) services is essential for optimizing resource allocation and service provision. This study aimed to address the regional evidence gap by reporting the demand for NM services by sex and age at a public hospital in Jamaica. This was a non-experimental, retrospective study of NM scans that were completed at the University Hospital of the West Indies from 1 June 2022 to 31 May 2024. While all scans were reported in the descriptive totals, for patients with multiple scans during the study period, only the data from the first visit was used in the inferential statistical analysis. This was performed with the IBM SPSS (version 29.0) software and involved the use of chi-square goodness of fit and multinomial logistic regression. A total of 1135 NM scans for 1098 patients were completed (37 patients had more than one scan); 596 (54.3%) were female and 502 (45.7%) were male, with the ages ranging from 3 days to 94 years old. Among the female patients, there was a greater demand in the ≥60 years age group for cardiac amyloid scans (χ2 = 6.40, p < 0.05), while females 18–59 years had a greater demand for thyroid scans (χ2 = 7.714, p < 0.05) and bone scans (χ2 = 3.904, p < 0.05). On the other hand, significantly more males in the ≥60 age group presented for cardiac amyloid (χ2 = 4.167; p < 0.05) and bone scans (χ2 = 145.79, p < 0.01). Males were significantly less likely to undergo a thyroid scan than females (p < 0.01, OR = 0.072, 95% CI: 0.021, 0.243) while individuals aged 18–59 years were more likely to undergo this scan than patients aged 60 or older (p = 0.02, OR = 3.565, 95% CI: 1.258, 10.104). Males were more likely to do a cardiac amyloid scan (p < 0.05, OR = 2.237, 95% CI: 1.023, 4.891) but less likely to undergo a cardiac rest/stress test than females (p = 0.02, OR = 0.307, 95% CI: 0.114, 0.828). Prolonged life expectancy and an aging population have the potential to impact NM utilization, thus requiring planning for infrastructure, equipment, work force, and supplies. Cancer-related and cardiovascular indications are a top priority at this facility; hence, age- and sex-specific analysis are useful in establishing models for policy makers with regard to the allocation of economic and human resources for the sustainability of this specialized service. Full article
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22 pages, 884 KiB  
Article
Mitochondrial Dysregulation in Male Infertility: A Preliminary Study for Infertility-Specific lncRNA Variants
by Georgios Stamatellos, Maria-Anna Kyrgiafini, Aris Kaltsas and Zissis Mamuris
DNA 2025, 5(3), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/dna5030038 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a major health concern with a complex etiopathology, yet a substantial proportion of cases remain idiopathic. Mitochondrial dysfunction and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) deregulation have both been implicated in impaired spermatogenesis, but their interplay remains poorly understood. This study aimed [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Male infertility is a major health concern with a complex etiopathology, yet a substantial proportion of cases remain idiopathic. Mitochondrial dysfunction and non-coding RNA (ncRNA) deregulation have both been implicated in impaired spermatogenesis, but their interplay remains poorly understood. This study aimed to identify infertility-specific variants in ncRNAs that affect mitochondrial dynamics and homeostasis and to explore their roles. Methods: Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) was performed on genomic DNA samples from teratozoospermic, asthenozoospermic, oligozoospermic, and normozoospermic men. Variants uniquely present in infertile individuals and mapped to ncRNAs that affect mitochondrial dynamics were selected and prioritized using bioinformatics tools. An independent transcriptomic validation was conducted using RNA-sequencing data from testicular biopsies of men with non-obstructive azoospermia (NOA) to determine whether the ncRNAs harboring WGS-derived variants were transcriptionally altered. Results: We identified several infertility-specific variants located in lncRNAs known to interact with mitochondrial regulators, including GAS5, HOTAIR, PVT1, MEG3, and CDKN2B-AS1. Transcriptomic analysis confirmed significant deregulation of these lncRNAs in azoospermic testicular samples. Bioinformatic analysis also implicated the disruption of lncRNA–miRNA–mitochondria networks, potentially contributing to mitochondrial membrane potential loss, elevated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production, impaired mitophagy, and germ cell apoptosis. Conclusions: Our integrative genomic and transcriptomic analysis highlights lncRNA–mitochondrial gene interactions as a novel regulatory layer in male infertility, while the identified lncRNAs hold promise as biomarkers and therapeutic targets. However, future functional studies are warranted to elucidate their mechanistic roles and potential for clinical translation in reproductive medicine. Full article
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22 pages, 3743 KiB  
Article
Mechanical and Performance Characteristics of Warm Mix Asphalt Modified with Phase Change Materials and Recycled Cigarette Filters
by Zahraa Ahmed al-Mammori, Israa Mohsin Kadhim Al-Janabi, Ghadeer H. Abbas, Doaa Hazim Aziz, Fatin H. Alaaraji, Elaf Salam Abbas, Beshaer M. AL-shimmery, Tameem Mohammed Hashim, Ghanim Q. Al-Jameel, Ali Shubbar and Mohammed Salah Nasr
CivilEng 2025, 6(3), 41; https://doi.org/10.3390/civileng6030041 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
With rising global temperatures and increasing sustainability demands, the need for advanced pavement solutions has never been greater. This study breaks new ground by integrating phase change materials (PCMs), including paraffin-based wax (Rubitherm RT55), hydrated salt (Climator Salt S10), and fatty acid (lauric [...] Read more.
With rising global temperatures and increasing sustainability demands, the need for advanced pavement solutions has never been greater. This study breaks new ground by integrating phase change materials (PCMs), including paraffin-based wax (Rubitherm RT55), hydrated salt (Climator Salt S10), and fatty acid (lauric acid), as binder modifiers within warm mix asphalt (WMA) mixtures. Moving beyond the traditional focus on binder-only modifications, this research utilizes recycled cigarette filters (CFs) as a dual-purpose fiber additive, directly reinforcing the asphalt mixture while simultaneously transforming a major urban waste stream into valuable infrastructure. The performance of the developed WMA mixture has been evaluated in terms of stiffness behavior using an Indirect Tensile Strength Modulus (ITSM) test, permanent deformation using a static creep strain test, and rutting resistance using the Hamburg wheel-track test. Laboratory tests demonstrated that the incorporation of PCMs and recycled CFs into WMA mixtures led to remarkable improvements in stiffness, deformation resistance, and rutting performance. Modified mixes consistently outperformed the control, achieving up to 15% higher stiffness after 7 days of curing, 36% lower creep strain after 4000 s, and 64% reduction in rut depth at 20,000 passes. Cost–benefit analysis and service life prediction show that, despite costing USD 0.71 more per square meter with 5 cm thickness, the modified WMA mixture delivers much greater durability and rutting resistance, extending service life to 19–29 years compared to 10–15 years for the control. This highlights the value of these modifications for durable, sustainable pavements. Full article
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17 pages, 5314 KiB  
Article
The Settlement Ratio and Settled Area: Novel Indicators for Analyzing Land Use in Relation to Road Network Functions and Performance
by Giulia Del Serrone, Giuseppe Cantisani and Paolo Peluso
Eng 2025, 6(8), 188; https://doi.org/10.3390/eng6080188 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Land use significantly influences mobility dynamics, affecting both travel behavior and mode choice. Traditional indicators such as the Floor Area Ratio, Land-Use Mix Index, and Built-up Area Ratio are widely used to describe settlement patterns; yet, they often fail to capture their functional [...] Read more.
Land use significantly influences mobility dynamics, affecting both travel behavior and mode choice. Traditional indicators such as the Floor Area Ratio, Land-Use Mix Index, and Built-up Area Ratio are widely used to describe settlement patterns; yet, they often fail to capture their functional impacts on road networks. This study introduces two complementary indicators—Settlement Ratio (SR) and Settled Area (SA)—developed through a spatial analysis framework integrating GIS data and MATLAB processing. SR offers a continuous typological profile of built-up functions along the road axis, while SA measures the percentage of anthropized land within fixed analysis windows. Applied to two Italian state roads, SS14 and SS309, in the Veneto Region, the dual-indicator approach reveals how the intensity (SR) and extent (SA) of settlement vary across different territorial contexts. In suburban segments, SR values exceeding 15–20, together with SA levels between 10% and 15%, highlight the significant spatial impact of isolated development clusters—often not evident from macro-scale observations. These findings demonstrate that the SR–SA framework provides a robust tool for analyzing land use in relation to road function. Although the study focuses on spatial structure and indicator design, future developments will explore correlations with traffic flow, speed, and crash data to support road safety analyses. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Interdisciplinary Insights in Engineering Research)
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20 pages, 1545 KiB  
Review
Nanomedicine as a Promising Treatment Approach for Obesity
by Abeer Alanazi, Alexander Craven, Spiridon V. Spirou, Maria Jose Santos-Martinez, Carlos Medina and Oliviero L. Gobbo
J. Nanotheranostics 2025, 6(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/jnt6030021 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Obesity is a chronic disorder associated with serious comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Conventional pharmacological treatments often suffer from limited efficacy, poor selectivity, and undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for more effective alternatives. Nanomedicine offers a promising approach by [...] Read more.
Obesity is a chronic disorder associated with serious comorbidities such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer. Conventional pharmacological treatments often suffer from limited efficacy, poor selectivity, and undesirable side effects, highlighting the need for more effective alternatives. Nanomedicine offers a promising approach by overcoming these limitations through targeted drug delivery and enhanced therapeutic precision. This review examines key nanotechnological strategies in obesity management, including targeting white adipose tissue (WAT) and the vascular marker prohibitin, promoting WAT browning, and utilizing photothermal therapy and magnetic hyperthermia as nanotheranostic tools. We discuss major nanomedicine platforms—such as liposomes, nanoemulsions, and polymeric nanoparticles—alongside emerging applications in gene nanotherapy and herbal formulations. Potential toxicity concerns are also addressed. In summary, nanomedicine holds substantial potential to revolutionize obesity treatment through targeted, effective, and multifunctional therapeutic strategies. Full article
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13 pages, 1436 KiB  
Article
Basalt Fiber Mechanical Properties After Low-Temperature Treatment
by Sergey I. Gutnikov, Evgeniya S. Zhukovskaya, Sergey S. Popov and Bogdan I. Lazoryak
Textiles 2025, 5(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles5030032 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study investigates the production and characterization of basalt continuous fibers (BCFs) with varying oxide contents (including Na2O, SiO2, CaO, TiO2, and Al2O3), derived from modified basalt bulk glasses. The fibers were created [...] Read more.
This study investigates the production and characterization of basalt continuous fibers (BCFs) with varying oxide contents (including Na2O, SiO2, CaO, TiO2, and Al2O3), derived from modified basalt bulk glasses. The fibers were created through a two-stage process that included the preparation of basalt glasses followed by fiber drawing. A key focus of the research was on evaluating the mechanical properties of BCF after low-temperature treatments. Tensile testing revealed that the maximum tensile strength of the fibers was 1915 MPa at room temperature, which decreased to 1714 MPa at −196 °C, representing a shift of −10.5%. The addition of sodium oxide not only broadened the fiber-forming temperature range but also increased the strength to 2351 MPa. However, significant reductions in strength were observed at cryogenic temperatures, particularly for the Na-rich sample, which experienced a decrease of 32.8%. These findings highlight the importance of optimizing oxide content and minimizing hydroxyl (OH) groups to enhance the performance of basalt fibers in low-temperature applications, positioning them as viable materials for use in extreme environments. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Technical Textiles)
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17 pages, 1653 KiB  
Article
Corner Case Dataset for Autonomous Vehicle Testing Based on Naturalistic Driving Data
by Jian Zhao, Wenxu Li, Bing Zhu, Peixing Zhang, Zhaozheng Hu and Jie Meng
Smart Cities 2025, 8(4), 129; https://doi.org/10.3390/smartcities8040129 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The safe and reliable operation of autonomous vehicles is contingent on comprehensive testing. However, the operational scenarios are inexhaustible. Corner cases, which critically influence autonomous vehicle safety, occur at an extremely low probability and follow a long-tail distribution. Corner cases can be defined [...] Read more.
The safe and reliable operation of autonomous vehicles is contingent on comprehensive testing. However, the operational scenarios are inexhaustible. Corner cases, which critically influence autonomous vehicle safety, occur at an extremely low probability and follow a long-tail distribution. Corner cases can be defined as combinations of driving task and scenario elements. These scenarios are characterized by low probability, high risk, and a tendency to reveal functional limitations inherent to autonomous driving systems, triggering anomalous behavior. This study constructs a novel corner case dataset using naturalistic driving data, specifically tailored for autonomous vehicle testing. A scenario marginality quantification method is designed to analyze multi-source naturalistic driving data, enabling efficient extraction of corner cases. Heterogeneous scenarios are systematically transformed, resulting in a dataset characterized by diverse interaction behaviors and standardized formatting. The results indicate that the scenario marginality of the dataset constructed in this study is 2.78 times that of mainstream naturalistic driving datasets, and the scenarios exhibit considerable diversity. The trajectory and velocity fluctuations, quantified at 0.013 m and 0.021 m/s, respectively, are consistent with the kinematic characteristics of real-world driving scenarios. These results collectively demonstrate the dataset’s high marginality, diversity, and applicability. Full article
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5 pages, 995 KiB  
Case Report
Foreign Body Presenting as Golden Hypopyon
by Anas Alkhabaz, Lucie Y. Guo and Charles DeBoer
Surgeries 2025, 6(3), 68; https://doi.org/10.3390/surgeries6030068 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Penetrating intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) are ocular emergencies, often leading to preventable vision loss. This case report highlights a unique presentation of a work-related penetrating IOFB that mimicked a golden hypopyon. Methods: A 35-year-old male presented to the emergency department [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Penetrating intraocular foreign bodies (IOFBs) are ocular emergencies, often leading to preventable vision loss. This case report highlights a unique presentation of a work-related penetrating IOFB that mimicked a golden hypopyon. Methods: A 35-year-old male presented to the emergency department with sudden-onset pain and vision loss in the left eye while he was cutting a tree with metallic scissors. He had a visual acuity of 20/30 in the right eye and counting fingers in the left eye. A dilated slit-lamp examination and CT scan confirmed the presence of a 6–8 mm metallic IOFB in the anterior chamber, with no involvement of the lens or the posterior segment. Surgical removal was performed. Results: The metallic IOFB was removed surgically with IOFB forceps using a single paracentesis. The patient reported resolving pain and regained baseline visual acuity of 20/20 postoperatively, which remained stable at one-month follow-up. Conclusions: This case illustrates the successful surgical management of a penetrating metallic IOFB with a unique presentation mimicking a hypopyon. Emphasis on unique presentations of IOFBs can aid in timely management, ultimately reducing the risk of complications. Full article
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27 pages, 2559 KiB  
Review
Virgin Coconut Oil and Its Lauric Acid, Between Anticancer Activity and Modulation of Chemotherapy Toxicity: A Review
by Debalina Bose, Adetayo Olorunlana, Rania Abdel-Latif, Ademola C. Famurewa and Eman M. Othman
J. Xenobiot. 2025, 15(4), 126; https://doi.org/10.3390/jox15040126 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has emerged as a functional food oil with considerable health benefits and wide applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries due to its resident bioactive compounds, including lauric acid (LA). LA is the most abundant saturated medium-chain fatty [...] Read more.
Virgin coconut oil (VCO) has emerged as a functional food oil with considerable health benefits and wide applications in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries due to its resident bioactive compounds, including lauric acid (LA). LA is the most abundant saturated medium-chain fatty acid in VCO and has been associated with several pharmacological activities. The literatures show the pharmacological effects of VCO and LA on chronic pathologies, infectious diseases, and metabolic disorders. A robust body of evidence shows that LA and other phenolic compounds are responsible for the VCO protection against toxicities and pharmacological efficacies. This review elucidates the anticancer mechanisms of VCO/LA and their modulation of the chemotherapy-induced side effect toxicity. VCO, LA, and their nanomaterial/encapsulated derivatives promote ROS generation, antiproliferation, apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, the inhibition of metastasis, and the modulation of cancer-related signaling pathways for cancer cell death in vivo and in vitro. VCO mitigates oxidative inflammation and apoptosis to block the underlying mechanisms of the side effect toxicity of chemotherapy. However, the possible beneficial effect of LA on the toxicity of chemotherapy is currently unknown. The available evidence emphasizes the anticancer effect and mechanism of VCO and LA, and the VCO potential to combat adverse side effects of chemotherapy. Thus, VCO and LA are potential adjuvant therapeutic agents in the management of various cancers. Nevertheless, future studies should be targeted at elucidating cancer-related molecular mechanisms to bridge the gap in knowledge. Full article
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20 pages, 9066 KiB  
Article
Dynamic Modeling of Poultry Litter Composting in High Mountain Climates Using System Identification Techniques
by Alvaro A. Patiño-Forero, Fabian Salazar-Caceres, Harrynson Ramirez-Murillo, Fabiana F. Franceschi, Ricardo Rincón and Geraldynne Sierra-Rueda
Automation 2025, 6(3), 36; https://doi.org/10.3390/automation6030036 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Poultry waste composting is a necessary technique for agricultural farm sustainability. Composting is a dynamic process influenced by multiple variables. Humidity and temperature play fundamental roles in analyzing its different phases according to the environment and composting technique. Current developments for monitoring these [...] Read more.
Poultry waste composting is a necessary technique for agricultural farm sustainability. Composting is a dynamic process influenced by multiple variables. Humidity and temperature play fundamental roles in analyzing its different phases according to the environment and composting technique. Current developments for monitoring these variables include automation via intelligent Internet of Things (IoT)-based sensor networks for variable tracking. These advancements serve as efficient tools for modeling that facilitate the simulation and prediction of composting process variables to improve system efficiency. Therefore, this paper presents the dynamic modeling of composting via forced aeration processes in high-mountain climates, with the intent of estimating biomass temperature dynamics in different phases using system identification techniques. To this end, four dynamic model estimation structures are employed: transfer function (TF), state space (SS), process (P), and Hammerstein–Wiener (HW). The and model quality, fitting results, and standard error metrics of the different models found in each phase are assessed through residual analysis from each structure by validation with real system data. Our results show that the second-order underdamped multiple-input–single-output (MISO) process model with added noise demonstrates the best fit and validation performance. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Digital Agriculture, Smart Farming and Crop Monitoring)
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17 pages, 11387 KiB  
Review
Exploring Early Human Presence in West Central Africa’s Rainforests: Archeo-Paleontological Surveys, Taphonomy, and Insights from Living Primates in Equatorial Guinea
by Antonio Rosas, Antonio Garcia-Tabernero, Darío Fidalgo, Juan Ignacio Morales, Palmira Saladié, Maximiliano Fero Meñe and Cayetano Ebana Ebana
Quaternary 2025, 8(3), 45; https://doi.org/10.3390/quat8030045 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Since 2014, the Paleoanthropology Group of the National Museum of Natural Sciences (CSIC), in collaboration with Equatoguinean researchers, has been conducting archeo-paleontological fieldwork in Equatorial Guinea, continuing a longstanding Spanish naturalist tradition in this region of West Central Africa. These multidisciplinary investigations, framed [...] Read more.
Since 2014, the Paleoanthropology Group of the National Museum of Natural Sciences (CSIC), in collaboration with Equatoguinean researchers, has been conducting archeo-paleontological fieldwork in Equatorial Guinea, continuing a longstanding Spanish naturalist tradition in this region of West Central Africa. These multidisciplinary investigations, framed within an archeo-paleo-anthropological approach, aim primarily to identify early human occupation in the Central African rainforests. To date, robust evidence of Pleistocene human presence has been documented, particularly through lithic assemblages. Although the scarcity and fragmentation of well-dated sites in Central Africa complicate chronological placement, technological traits observed in the lithic industries recorded in Equatorial Guinea show clear affinities with the African Middle Stone Age (MSA). Complementary taphonomic analyses of faunal remains have been undertaken to better understand bone preservation and fossilization processes under tropical rainforest conditions, thereby contributing to the interpretation of archeological contexts. In parallel, ongoing primatological research within the project—focused on extant primates in their natural habitats—seeks to provide ethological models relevant to the study of hominin locomotor evolution. Notably, the project has led to the ecogeographic characterization of the Engong chimpanzee group in Monte Alén National Park, one of the country’s most pristine protected areas. Full article
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12 pages, 1169 KiB  
Article
Does Total Hip Arthroplasty Influence Pelvic Version? A Retrospective Case Control Study Using the Sacro-Femoro-Pubic Angle in Osteoarthritis and Fracture Patients
by Giuseppe Geraci, Alberto Corrado Di Martino, Enrico Masi, Alessandro Panciera, Chiara Di Censo and Cesare Faldini
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1414; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081414 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Spinopelvic alignment may affect the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA), with pelvic version influencing the risk of mechanical complications occurring after surgery. On the other hand, THA surgery itself may contribute to the modification of pelvis version. The [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Spinopelvic alignment may affect the outcomes of total hip arthroplasty (THA), with pelvic version influencing the risk of mechanical complications occurring after surgery. On the other hand, THA surgery itself may contribute to the modification of pelvis version. The sacro-femoro-pubic (SFP) angle is measured on anteroposterior (AP) radiographs of the pelvis in a supine position, and is used to estimate pelvic tilt (PT), representative of pelvic version, which requires lateral views of the sacrum for its calculation; however, these X rays are not routinely performed in the preoperative setting of hip surgery. This study aims to analyze how THA determines changes in the pelvic version of operated patients; the SFP angle will be used to assess pelvic version on standard AP radiographs. Materials and Methods: This retrospective study included 182 consecutive patients undergoing THA for unilateral primary degenerative hip osteoarthritis (HOA-study group, n = 104) or femoral neck fracture (FNF-control group, n = 78) at the author’s institution. The SFP angle was measured on AP pelvic radiographs of the non-replaced hip preoperatively, postoperatively, and at the last follow-up. PT values were derived from SFP angles. Pre- and postoperative PT and its variations ΔPT were assessed. Study groups were compared in terms of native and postoperative variations of pelvic version. Results: The average absolute value of ΔPT was 2.99° ± 3.07° in the HOA group and 3.57° ± 2.92° in FNF group. There was no significant overall difference in preoperative or postoperative PT values between groups. In both groups, THA surgery led to a certain improvement, still not significant, in pelvic orientation, with FNF patients presenting a greater tendency toward retroversion. No significant differences in complication rates were found comparing patients with different pelvic orientations. Conclusions: THA can lead to a “normalization” of pelvic version in a certain number of patients with preoperative anteversion or retroversion. Although statistically non-significant, this observation may have clinical implications for spinopelvic balance and could support prioritizing THA in patients with concurrent spinal disease. Further research is needed to confirm these findings and to evaluate the long-term impact of THA on spinopelvic alignment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Techniques, Risks and Recovery of Hip Surgery)
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16 pages, 1827 KiB  
Article
Mixed Candida albicansStaphylococcus aureus Biofilm Is Reduced by Light-Activated Nanocomposite with Phloxine B
by Jarmila Czucz Varga, Juraj Bujdák and Helena Bujdáková
J. Fungi 2025, 11(8), 582; https://doi.org/10.3390/jof11080582 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are opportunistic pathogens that cause life-threatening infections. This study focused on using photodynamic inactivation (PDI) to eliminate mixed biofilms of C. albicans–S. aureus formed on poly (urethane) (PU) discs functionalized with a nanocomposite layer containing phloxine B (PhB). [...] Read more.
Candida albicans and Staphylococcus aureus are opportunistic pathogens that cause life-threatening infections. This study focused on using photodynamic inactivation (PDI) to eliminate mixed biofilms of C. albicans–S. aureus formed on poly (urethane) (PU) discs functionalized with a nanocomposite layer containing phloxine B (PhB). Additionally, the effect of PDI on the ALS3 and HWP1 genes of C. albicans was examined in mixed biofilms. Spectral analysis showed a continuous release of PhB from the nanocomposite in Mueller–Hinton broth within 48 h, with a released amount of PhB < 5% of the total amount. The anti-biofilm effectiveness of the light-activated nanocomposite with PhB showed a reduction in the survival rate of biofilm cells to 0.35% and 31.79% for S. aureus and C. albicans, respectively, compared to the control biofilm on PU alone. Scanning electron microscopy images showed that the nanocomposite effectively reduced the colonization and growth of the mixed biofilm. While PDI reduced the regulation of the ALS3 gene, the HWP1 gene was upregulated. Nevertheless, the cell survival of the C. albicansS. aureus biofilm was significantly reduced, showing great potential for the elimination of mixed biofilms. Full article
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16 pages, 23926 KiB  
Article
Electrical Connector Assembly Based on Compliant Tactile Finger with Fingernail
by Wenhui Yang, Hongliang Zhao, Chengxiao He and Longhui Qin
Biomimetics 2025, 10(8), 512; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomimetics10080512 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Robotic assembly of electrical connectors enables the automation of high-efficiency production of electronic products. A rigid gripper is adopted as the end-effector by the majority of existing works with a force–torque sensor installed at the wrist, which suffers from very limited perception capability [...] Read more.
Robotic assembly of electrical connectors enables the automation of high-efficiency production of electronic products. A rigid gripper is adopted as the end-effector by the majority of existing works with a force–torque sensor installed at the wrist, which suffers from very limited perception capability of the manipulated objects. Moreover, the grasping and movement actions, as well as the inconsistency between the robot base and the end-effector frame, tend to result in angular misalignment, usually leading to assembly failure. Bio-inspired by the human finger, we designed a tactile finger in this paper with three characteristics: (1) Compliance: A soft ‘skin’ layer provides passive compliance for plenty of manipulation actions, thus increasing the tolerance for alignment errors. (2) Tactile Perception: Two types of sensing elements are embedded into the soft skin to tactilely sense the involved contact status. (3) Enhanced manipulation force: A rigid fingernail is designed to enhance the manipulation force and enable potential delicate operations. Moreover, a tactile-based alignment algorithm is proposed to search for the optimal orientation angle about the z axis. In the application of U-disk insertion, the three characteristics are validated and a success rate of 100% is achieved, whose generalization capability is also validated through the assembly of three types of electrical connectors. Full article
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