MDPI - Publisher of Open Access Journals

12 pages, 4594 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Lubrication Amount for Sewing Threads

by Adnan Mazari and Funda Buyuk Mazari

Textiles 2025, 5(2), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/textiles5020015 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Sewing needle heating is a common problem for the sewing of technical and medical textiles. The hot needle causes burnt spots on fabric, breakage of the thread, and weak seam strength. Multiple ways are used in industry to cool the needle including compressed [...] Read more.

Sewing needle heating is a common problem for the sewing of technical and medical textiles. The hot needle causes burnt spots on fabric, breakage of the thread, and weak seam strength. Multiple ways are used in industry to cool the needle including compressed air, thread lubrication, and needle coatings. The most economical way of reducing needle heat is to use thread lubrication. This technique needs a lot of research because the bucket of lubrication installed on the sewing machine provides irregular amounts of the micro layer on the thread and there is no research showing how much should be used. In this research, different amounts of pre-lubricated threads are used to measure their impact on coefficient of friction, tensile strength, needle temperature, and overall performance of the seam depending on lubrication amount. The research work is focused on the disadvantages of irregular lubrication and finding optimized lubricant amount for better sewing performance with low needle temperature. Full article

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8 pages, 178 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Short-Term Outcomes of Abdominal Surgeries Performed with Epidural Anaesthesia in Italian Calves

by Gessica Giusto, Claudio Bellino, Anna Cerullo and Marco Gandini

Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(5), 417; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12050417 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Abdominal surgery is widely described for several diseases in cattle. While in adults surgical procedures are generally performed in standing or in sternal recumbency, lateral or dorsal recumbency is preferred in calves. General anaesthesia is associated with several side effects, and epidural anaesthesia [...] Read more.

Abdominal surgery is widely described for several diseases in cattle. While in adults surgical procedures are generally performed in standing or in sternal recumbency, lateral or dorsal recumbency is preferred in calves. General anaesthesia is associated with several side effects, and epidural anaesthesia (EA) is a valid alternative anaesthetic protocol for several surgical approaches. Previous studies have already been published about abdominal surgery in calves for several diseases, but they are not focused on short-term outcomes. Therefore, there is a need to report a case series for calves that have undergone exploratory laparotomy under EA. General anaesthesia is limited in cattle due to its association with several complications, such as ruminal stasis, regurgitation and tympany, and alternative protocols need to be used. The aim of this study is to describe the surgical features and short-term outcomes of elective and emergency laparotomies in calves under EA. In more complex or longer-lasting surgery, with a median duration of 80 min, intravenous administration of xylazine was necessary. Short-term survival (defined as survival until discharge from the hospital) rate was 90.1%. The EA was sufficient to ensure adequate analgesia in most surgeries. This type of anaesthesia is easy to administer, with limited side effects. The results of this study support surgeons in decision-making in the event of pathologies requiring abdominal surgery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Surgery)

16 pages, 1816 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Impact of Maternal Metabolic Status on Human Milk Oligosaccharide Composition: A Population-Based Cross-Sectional Study in Central South China

by Zhi Huang, Shurong Luo, Yuxin Li, Ziming Li, Chuanzhu Yi, Yan Zhang, Yuming Hu and Bo Chen

Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091480 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) serve as critical bioactive components supporting infant growth and development. However, the influence of maternal metabolic factors during lactation on HMOs remains to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the association between maternal metabolic factors and [...] Read more.

Background: Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) serve as critical bioactive components supporting infant growth and development. However, the influence of maternal metabolic factors during lactation on HMOs remains to be fully elucidated. This study aimed to investigate the association between maternal metabolic factors and HMOs, as well as the potential mediating effects of these factors. Methods: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Central South China, enrolling 196 lactating mothers. HMOs were quantified using liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry. Maternal metabolic factors were assessed through physical examinations. Associations between metabolic factors and HMOs were analyzed using linear regression, and mediation effects were evaluated. Results: HMOs from Central South China were predominantly composed of neutral fucosylated HMOs. Significant differences were observed in the levels of several HMOs across maternal age groups and lactation periods. The concentration of 3′-sialyllactose (3′-SL) exhibited a negative association with the pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) (β = −0.16, 95% CI: −0.29, −0.03; p = 0.02), while a positive association was found with maternal heart rate (β = 0.14, 95% CI: 0.01, 0.27; p = 0.04). However, these associations were different between secretor and non-secretor mothers. Associations of 3′-SL with pre-pregnancy BMI and maternal HR were only found in the secretor mothers. Triglycerides and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol mediated the associations between maternal pre-pregnancy BMI and 3′-sialyllactose (3′-SL). Conclusions: The variations of several HMOs among mothers from Central South China were associated with maternal age and lactation period. The concentration of 3′-SL was negatively correlated with maternal pre-pregnancy BMI. The potential mechanism underlying the influence of maternal BMI on 3′-SL levels may involve maternal lipid metabolism and genetic factors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Maternal Diet, Epigenetic Mechanisms and Metabolic Programming)

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22 pages, 287 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence in Religious Education: Ethical, Pedagogical, and Theological Perspectives

by Christos Papakostas

Religions 2025, 16(5), 563; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16050563 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Religious Education (RE), a field traditionally rooted in spiritual formation and human interaction. Amid increasing digital transformation in education, theological institutions are exploring AI tools for teaching, assessment, and pastoral engagement. Using a [...] Read more.

This study investigates the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Religious Education (RE), a field traditionally rooted in spiritual formation and human interaction. Amid increasing digital transformation in education, theological institutions are exploring AI tools for teaching, assessment, and pastoral engagement. Using a critical literature review and analysis of institutional case studies, the paper examines the historical development of AI in education, current applications in general and theological contexts, and the ethical challenges it introduces, especially regarding decision making, data privacy, and bias as well as didactically grounded opportunities such as AI-mediated dialogic simulations. The study identifies both the pedagogical advantages of AI, such as personalization and administrative efficiency, and the risks of theological distortion, overreliance, and epistemic conformity. It presents a range of real-world implementations from institutions like Harvard Divinity School and the Oxford Centre for Digital Theology, highlighting best practices and cautionary approaches. The findings suggest that AI can enrich RE when deployed thoughtfully and ethically, but it must not replace the relational and formational aspects central to RE. The paper concludes by recommending policy development, ethical oversight, and interdisciplinary collaboration to guide responsible integration. This research contributes to the growing discourse on how AI can be aligned with the spiritual and intellectual goals of RE in a rapidly evolving digital age. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Religion and/of the Future)

17 pages, 1124 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Contributions of Medications, Physical and Hydrotherapy Programs in Reducing Endothelial Dysfunction in Hypertensive Patients

by Roxana Cristina Rad Bodan, Adina Octavia Dușe, Eniko Gabriela Papp, Răzvan Marian Melinte and Minodora Andor

J. Funct. Morphol. Kinesiol. 2025, 10(2), 150; https://doi.org/10.3390/jfmk10020150 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is in first place in Europe among cardiovascular diseases. Worldwide, only 1 in 5 adults pursue proper treatment that controls their high blood pressure. Endothelial dysfunction is a marker that indicates the progression of hypertension. The study aims to evaluate [...] Read more.

Background: Hypertension is in first place in Europe among cardiovascular diseases. Worldwide, only 1 in 5 adults pursue proper treatment that controls their high blood pressure. Endothelial dysfunction is a marker that indicates the progression of hypertension. The study aims to evaluate the efficacy of antihypertensives and physical and hydrotherapy cardiovascular rehabilitation programs to control hypertension and improve endothelial dysfunction. Methods: A total of 100 patients with hypertension degree 1 (46 years ± 0.32) were divided into four homogenic groups. All subjects of the A, B, C and D groups benefited from recommendations for a healthy lifestyle; groups B, C and D also received antihypertensive medication; additionally, group C had a physical cardiovascular program and group D a cardiovascular hydrotherapy program. Several clinical endothelial damage markers and blood and urine parameters were registered, along with systolic and diastolic blood pressure, before and after 8 weeks of rehabilitation. Results: Group A registered a statistically significant decrease for 1 parameter LDL (p = 0.002). Group B showed statistically significant values for 14 parameters (p ≤ 0.05). The C and D groups registered significantly improved statistic values for 17 parameters each (p ≤ 0.0001). Conclusions: Groups B, C and D that were given antihypertensive medication during rehabilitation registered improved endothelial dysfunctional markers and controlled blood pressure values, compared with group A which was given only recommendations for a healthy lifestyle. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Physiology of Training—2nd Edition)

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19 pages, 935 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Perceived Overqualification on Workplace Procrastination: The Role of Public Service Motivation and Perceived Prosocial Impact

by Wenzheng Qiu, Xinyu Dong and Chenhui Liu

Behav. Sci. 2025, 15(5), 590; https://doi.org/10.3390/bs15050590 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Workplace procrastination is widespread in the public sector and has severe negative implications. However, research specifically focusing on workplace procrastination among civil servants remains scarce. Drawing on the person–environment (P–E) fit theory and the public service motivation (PSM) fit perspective, this study examines [...] Read more.

Workplace procrastination is widespread in the public sector and has severe negative implications. However, research specifically focusing on workplace procrastination among civil servants remains scarce. Drawing on the person–environment (P–E) fit theory and the public service motivation (PSM) fit perspective, this study examines the relationship between perceived overqualification (POQ) and workplace procrastination through job boredom, and further explores how PSM and perceived prosocial impact moderate this relationship. Based on a survey of 363 Chinese civil servants, the findings reveal a positive correlation between POQ and workplace procrastination through job boredom, and this correlation is weaker for civil servants with high PSM than for those with low PSM. A three-way interaction analysis indicates that perceived prosocial impact enhances the ability of PSM to reduce job boredom caused by POQ, which in turn weakens the association between POQ and workplace procrastination. Moreover, when civil servants with high PSM perceive their work as having a high prosocial impact, the association between POQ and workplace procrastination becomes nonsignificant. This study introduces a person–environment interaction perspective for understanding the antecedents of workplace procrastination, underscores the costs of POQ in public organizations, and offers valuable insights for preventing workplace procrastination among civil servants. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Preventing and Addressing Negative Behaviors in the Workplace)

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13 pages, 3824 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multiple-Particle Autofocusing Algorithm Using Axial Resolution and Morphological Analyses Based on Digital Holography

by Wei-Na Li, Yi Zhou, Jiatai Chen, Hongjie Ou and Xiangsheng Xie

Electronics 2025, 14(9), 1789; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14091789 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

We propose an autofocusing algorithm to obtain, relatively accurately, the 3D position of each particle, particularly its axial location, and particle number of a dense transparent particle solution via its hologram. First, morphological analyses and constrained intensity are used on raw reconstructed images [...] Read more.

We propose an autofocusing algorithm to obtain, relatively accurately, the 3D position of each particle, particularly its axial location, and particle number of a dense transparent particle solution via its hologram. First, morphological analyses and constrained intensity are used on raw reconstructed images to obtain information on candidate focused particles. Second, axial resolution is used to obtain the real focused particles. Based on the mean intensity and equivalent diameter of each candidate focused particle, all focused particles are eventually secured. Our proposed method can rapidly provide relatively accurate ground-truth axial positions to solve the autofocusing problem that occurs with dense particles. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence, Computer Vision and 3D Display)

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10 pages, 3529 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Seroprevalence of Toxoplasma gondii in Wild European and American Mink (Mustela lutreola and Neogale vison) from Spain

by María Eugenia Lebrero, José Villora, María Asunción Gómez, Madis Podra, María del Carmen Aranda, Sergio Villanueva-Saz, Antonio Fernández, Patricia Lizarraga, Pablo Quilez, Álex Gómez and Diana Marteles

Pathogens 2025, 14(5), 427; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14050427 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affects a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Domestic and wild felines serve as definitive hosts, excreting oocysts that contaminate the environment. Intermediate hosts, such as the endangered European mink (Mustela lutreola [...] Read more.

Toxoplasmosis, caused by the intracellular parasite Toxoplasma gondii, affects a wide range of warm-blooded animals, including humans. Domestic and wild felines serve as definitive hosts, excreting oocysts that contaminate the environment. Intermediate hosts, such as the endangered European mink (Mustela lutreola) and the non-native American mink (Neogale vison), can become infected primarily through the ingestion of tissue cysts present in prey, while the ingestion of oocysts from contaminated soil or water plays a secondary role. This study analyzed the seroprevalence of T. gondii in 179 mink specimens (137 American mink and 42 European mink) collected in northern Spain from 2014 to 2020. Using an optimized indirect immunofluorescence assay, antibodies against T. gondii were detected in 47 samples (37 American mink and 10 European mink). Seroprevalence was higher in the Ebro basin than in the Cantabrian region, although the difference was not statistically significant. No significant associations were observed between seropositivity and species, sex, or habitat. These findings suggest environmental contamination by T. gondii oocysts in northern Spain and underscore the potential value of invasive American mink as sentinel species for monitoring public health risks associated with this parasite. The study also highlights the importance of wildlife surveillance in assessing environmental contamination and understanding transmission dynamics of infectious diseases in ecosystems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases in Wild Animals)

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16 pages, 750 KiB

Open AccessReview

Harnessing Exosomes: A Brief Overview of Nature’s Nanocarriers and a Glimpse into Their Implications in Pituitary Neuroendocrine Tumors (PitNETs)

by Ligia Gabriela Tataranu

Curr. Issues Mol. Biol. 2025, 47(5), 310; https://doi.org/10.3390/cimb47050310 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

The study of exosomes is currently an area of major interest in the scientific world, especially after the discovery of their function as natural nanocarriers. Their intrinsic features in regulating intricate intracellular pathways have put them in the spotlight in the last decade, [...] Read more.

The study of exosomes is currently an area of major interest in the scientific world, especially after the discovery of their function as natural nanocarriers. Their intrinsic features in regulating intricate intracellular pathways have put them in the spotlight in the last decade, and it has been considered that by harnessing them, the future of cellular communication and therapeutic innovation will experience a breakthrough, leading to pioneering research. However, it has been demonstrated that exosomes have various important roles, from conferring resistance to viral infections of the human placenta to transfer of oncogenic signals between cells, reshaping cellular metabolism, promoting angiogenesis, mediating immune evasion, serving as biomarkers in cancer diagnosis and prognosis, and having implications in the therapeutic management of certain diseases. Besides the general overview of exosomes as nature’s nanocarriers and their functions, this article aims to discuss their implications in PitNETs, especially since there have been many recent studies regarding the clinical benefits of biomolecular medicine. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Exosomes in Tissue Regeneration and Disease Therapy)

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22 pages, 5652 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Personalized Federated Transfer Learning for Building Energy Forecasting via Model Ensemble with Multi-Level Masking in Heterogeneous Sensing Environment

by Hakjae Kim, Sarangerel Dorjgochoo, Hansaem Park and Sungju Lee

Electronics 2025, 14(9), 1790; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14091790 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Effective building energy prediction is essential for optimizing energy management, but existing models struggle with data scarcity and sensor heterogeneity across different buildings. Conventional approaches, including centralized and transfer learning methods, fail to generalize well due to varying sensor configurations and inconsistent data [...] Read more.

Effective building energy prediction is essential for optimizing energy management, but existing models struggle with data scarcity and sensor heterogeneity across different buildings. Conventional approaches, including centralized and transfer learning methods, fail to generalize well due to varying sensor configurations and inconsistent data availability. To overcome these challenges, this study proposes a Personalized Federated Learning (pFL) framework that integrates multi-level feature masking, model ensemble techniques, and knowledge transfer to enhance predictive performance across diverse buildings. The proposed feature masking strategy extracts the most relevant time-series features, while model ensemble learning improves generalization, and knowledge transfer enables adaptive fine-tuning for each building. These techniques allow pFL to retain global knowledge while personalizing to local energy consumption patterns, making it more effective than traditional FL methods. Experiments conducted on a campus energy dataset demonstrate that pFL consistently outperforms FedAvg, FedProx, and standalone models in energy prediction accuracy. The most significant improvements are observed in buildings with highly fluctuating consumption patterns, validating the effectiveness of the proposed approach in handling heterogeneous sensing environments. This study highlights the potential of Federated Learning for scalable and adaptive energy prediction. Future work will focus on refining multi-horizon forecasting and developing strategies to enhance knowledge sharing among buildings for improved long-term performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in "Computer Science & Engineering", 2nd Edition)

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16 pages, 940 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Elastography Enhances the Diagnostic Performance of Conventional Ultrasonography in Differentiating Benign from Malignant Superficial Lymphadenopathies

by Novella Pugliese, Marco Picardi, Claudia Giordano, Annamaria Vincenzi, Rosaria Cappiello, Massimo Mascolo and Fabrizio Pane

Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1480; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091480 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Lymph node (LN) evaluation is critical in diagnosing, staging, and managing various diseases, particularly lymphoma and metastatic cancer. Although conventional ultrasound (US) is widely used for this purpose, its limitations in reliably differentiating between benign and malignant LNs persist. Ultrasound elastography (US-E), [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Lymph node (LN) evaluation is critical in diagnosing, staging, and managing various diseases, particularly lymphoma and metastatic cancer. Although conventional ultrasound (US) is widely used for this purpose, its limitations in reliably differentiating between benign and malignant LNs persist. Ultrasound elastography (US-E), which evaluates tissue stiffness, has emerged as a promising adjunct to improve diagnostic accuracy. This study aims to evaluate the diagnostic performance of conventional US, power Doppler US, and strain elastography (SE) in distinguishing malignant from benign superficial lymph nodes. Methods: In this prospective study, 214 consecutive patients referred for US of enlarged LNs were enrolled. Conventional B-mode US, power Doppler, and SE were performed, and the strain ratio (SR) was calculated as a measure of LN stiffness. Histopathological examination was used as the reference standard. Diagnostic accuracy was assessed using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analysis, and multivariable logistic regression models were applied to determine the independent predictive role of SR. Results: Among the 214 LNs (one for each patient), 74 (34.6%) were benign and 140 (65.4%) were malignant. The SR showed a significant association with malignancy (p < 0.001). For hematological malignancies, SR demonstrated high sensitivity (79–85%) and specificity (81–96%), with an overall area under the curve (AUC) of 0.91. Multivariable analysis confirmed that SR was an independent predictor of malignancy (continuous and dichotomous), with a 14% gain in predictive accuracy when treated as a continuous variable (p < 0.0001). Conclusions: US-E, particularly SR, is a valuable tool in the differentiation of benign and malignant superficial LNs. SR provides significant diagnostic value, especially in hematological neoplasms like Hodgkin lymphoma, and can serve as an independent predictor of malignancy. This technique, when used in combination with conventional US features, offers enhanced diagnostic performance for LN evaluation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Insights from the Editorial Board Member)

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7 pages, 9574 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Successful Reimplantation of a Femoral Stem Fracture After Cementless Total Hip Replacement Using the Femoral Window Technique in a Small Dog

by Yoshiyuki Inoue and Kohei Kuroda

Animals 2025, 15(9), 1237; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15091237 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Total hip replacement (THR) is a common procedure used in veterinary medicine to treat hip joint diseases, particularly in medium- and large-sized dogs. Although cementless techniques have become the standard owing to concerns regarding the aseptic loosening of cemented implants, complications such as [...] Read more.

Total hip replacement (THR) is a common procedure used in veterinary medicine to treat hip joint diseases, particularly in medium- and large-sized dogs. Although cementless techniques have become the standard owing to concerns regarding the aseptic loosening of cemented implants, complications such as stem fractures can still occur. This study reports a case of a 1-year-old, 2.8 kg Toy Poodle that underwent cementless THR using the Zurich mini-cementless hip system to treat Legg–Calvé–Perthes disease. Six months post-surgery, the dog developed a fractured stem, and a second surgery was performed using the “window technique” to replace the broken stem. The procedure involved creating a small window in the femoral cortex to remove the damaged stem and insert a new one. The dog recovered successfully with no further lameness. This case highlights the effectiveness of the window technique for stem replacement in small dogs and emphasizes the importance of optimal stem selection and positioning during the initial THR. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Veterinary Clinical Studies)

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13 pages, 751 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of t_2g-Correlations and Doping in CrSBr Ferromagnetic Semiconductor

by Luis Craco and Sabrina Silva Carara

Condens. Matter 2025, 10(2), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/condmat10020027 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

We perform a comprehensive analysis of the correlated electronic structure reconstruction of the ferromagnetic CrSBr van der Waals (vdW) bulk crystal. Using generalized gradient approximation combined with dynamical mean-field theory, we show the minor role played by multi-orbital electron–electron interactions in semiconducting CrSBr. [...] Read more.

We perform a comprehensive analysis of the correlated electronic structure reconstruction of the ferromagnetic CrSBr van der Waals (vdW) bulk crystal. Using generalized gradient approximation combined with dynamical mean-field theory, we show the minor role played by multi-orbital electron–electron interactions in semiconducting CrSBr. Our study is relevant to understanding the electronic structure within the

{C r}^{3 +}

oxidation state with strongly spin-polarized

t_{2 g}

orbitals and should be applicable to other ferromagnetic vdW materials from bulk down to the low-dimensional limit. This work is relevant for understanding orbital and spin selectivity and its link to the memristor current–voltage characteristic of CrSBr for future neuromorphic computing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Condensed Matter Theory)

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18 pages, 2348 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Metronidazole on the Fecal Microbiota, Fecal Metabolites, and Serum Metabolites of Healthy Adult Cats

by Sara E. Martini, Teresa Schmidt, Wenyi Huang, Amanda B. Blake, João P. Cavasin, Jan S. Suchodolski and Kelly S. Swanson

Pets 2025, 2(2), 19; https://doi.org/10.3390/pets2020019 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Antibiotics are commonly used to aid in the remission of gastrointestinal diseases, but usage may lead to prolonged dysbiosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of metronidazole on fecal microbiota, fecal metabolites, and serum bile acids and uremic toxins [...] Read more.

Antibiotics are commonly used to aid in the remission of gastrointestinal diseases, but usage may lead to prolonged dysbiosis. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of metronidazole on fecal microbiota, fecal metabolites, and serum bile acids and uremic toxins of healthy adult cats. Twelve healthy adult cats (4.7 ± 0.4 yr) received metronidazole (20 mg/kg BW PO BID) for 14 days (day 0–14) and were monitored during a 28-day recovery period (day 15–42). Fecal and blood samples were collected at baseline (day 0), after metronidazole (day 14), and weekly during recovery (on days 21, 28, 35, and 42). Fecal samples were analyzed for microbiota and bacterial metabolites. Serum samples were analyzed for bile acids and uremic toxins. Metronidazole increased dysbiosis index and fecal lactate concentrations (p < 0.0001) and decreased fecal propionate, butyrate, and secondary bile acid concentrations (p < 0.0001) for up to 28 days. Prolonged dysbiosis and Peptacetobacter (Clostridium) hiranonis reductions were observed in 10/12 (83%) cats. Serum uremic toxins were also reduced (p < 0.0001) after metronidazole administration. The observed changes after metronidazole administration illustrate how changes in the gut microbiome alter microbial metabolism and its relation to host dysmetabolism. In conclusion, metronidazole is a potent antibiotic with persistent effects observed in the microbiome and metabolome, even up to one month after administration. Full article

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32 pages, 2334 KiB

Open AccessReview

Undernutrition and Intestinal Infections in Children: A Narrative Review

by Maria Clara da Cruz Carvalho, Samilly Albuquerque Ribeiro, Lélia Sales de Sousa, Aldo Ângelo Moreira Lima and Bruna Leal Lima Maciel

Nutrients 2025, 17(9), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17091479 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Undernutrition affects thousands of children under five years old worldwide, and various factors are related to its onset, among which we highlight enteric infections and gastrointestinal barrier dysfunction. The cycle of intestinal infections and undernutrition has long-term consequences, such as cognitive deficits, poor [...] Read more.

Undernutrition affects thousands of children under five years old worldwide, and various factors are related to its onset, among which we highlight enteric infections and gastrointestinal barrier dysfunction. The cycle of intestinal infections and undernutrition has long-term consequences, such as cognitive deficits, poor growth, and metabolic diseases in adulthood. This review explores factors linked to childhood undernutrition, focusing on intestinal infections and markers of intestinal permeability that affect child development. This narrative review was conducted using Medline/PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus, from July 2024 to March 2025. Studies involving children under five years old and addressing undernutrition, intestinal infections, or intestinal permeability markers were included. Exclusion criteria comprised studies without therapeutic focus, and books, case reports, or academic theses. No language restrictions were applied, and registration on global platforms was not required. Overall, the studies reported a close relationship between enteric pathogens, diarrheal and non-diarrheal stools, and undernutrition. Among the pathogens most frequently found in the feces of malnourished children were Shigella, enterotoxigenic Escherichia coli, enteroaggregative E. coli (EAEC), and Cryptosporidium. The studies also showed the relationship between gastrointestinal barrier function and undernutrition, with the deterioration of nutrient absorption and, consequently, repercussions on development, linear growth, and weight in children. Although the studies analyzed had different designs and heterogeneity in the age range of the studied children, it was possible to observe the relationship between the infection/undernutrition cycle. Future studies should optimize personalized nutrient-based therapies, assess long-term effects on gut health and growth, and explore the gut microbiome’s role in enteric infection susceptibility and undernutrition. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Malnutrition and Gastrointestinal Disease)

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13 pages, 2183 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Clinical Impact of a Multidisciplinary Strategy: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Flow-Chart for Vertebral Metastases with Spinal Cord Compression

by Rossella Rispoli, Fabrizia Giorgiutti, Claudio Veltri, Edi Copetti, Pietro Imbrucè, Giorgia Iacopino and Barbara Cappelletto

Cancers 2025, 17(9), 1479; https://doi.org/10.3390/cancers17091479 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a life-threatening complication caused by the involvement of the spinal cord or nerve roots. It can result in severe neurological deficits, including paralysis, sensory loss, and bladder or bowel dysfunction, significantly affecting patients’ quality of life. [...] Read more.

Introduction: Metastatic spinal cord compression (MSCC) is a life-threatening complication caused by the involvement of the spinal cord or nerve roots. It can result in severe neurological deficits, including paralysis, sensory loss, and bladder or bowel dysfunction, significantly affecting patients’ quality of life. Prompt diagnosis and intervention are critical to minimizing these outcomes and improving neurological recovery. This study evaluates the efficacy of a diagnostic and therapeutic protocol introduced at our institution in 2022, designed to enhance early detection, optimize management, and improve outcomes for patients with MSCC. Materials and Methods: The protocol was developed through a multidisciplinary collaboration involving emergency physicians, oncologists, spine surgeons, neuroradiologists, and radiation oncologists. Each specialty contributed its expertise to create a streamlined approach emphasizing early symptom recognition, rapid diagnostic imaging, and timely therapeutic interventions, such as surgical decompression and radiotherapy. To assess the protocol’s effectiveness, a retrospective analysis was conducted. Clinical data from the pre-implementation period (years 2019–2021) were compared to the post-implementation period (2022–2024). Results: The implementation of the algorithm significantly improved MSCC management, increasing outpatient consultations from 671 to 828 (+23%). Comparing the pre- to post-implementation periods, emergency consultations rose from 14% to 23%, while intrahospital consultations decreased from 20% to 16%. Surgical procedures increased slightly, from 60 to 66 (+10%), including 26 emergency surgeries (+4%) and 40 elective delayed surgeries (+14%). Conclusions: The introduction of a multidisciplinary diagnostic and therapeutic protocol significantly improved outpatient management of patients with metastatic spine disease, demonstrated by a significant increase in urgent outpatient consultations and a reduction in intrahospital consultations. The number of surgical interventions for metastatic spinal cord compression slightly increased after the protocol’s adoption, although the proportion of elective surgeries remained unchanged. Neurological presentation at the time of surgery did not show a statistically significant difference between the pre- and post-implementation periods. These findings highlight the protocol’s effectiveness in optimizing patient flow and triaging, while further research is needed to evaluate its long-term clinical impact. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Spine Oncology: Research and Clinical Studies)

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14 pages, 269 KiB

Open AccessArticle

AI, Consciousness, and the Evolutionary Frontier: A Buddhist Reflection on Science and Human Futures

by Peter D. Hershock

Religions 2025, 16(5), 562; https://doi.org/10.3390/rel16050562 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

The technological advances and material control that have resulted from reductive and deterministic practices of science are quite real. The digitally mediated expansion of experiential freedoms-of-choice and the transformative problem-solving potential of artificial intelligence are undeniable. But for all its successes, reductive physicalism [...] Read more.

The technological advances and material control that have resulted from reductive and deterministic practices of science are quite real. The digitally mediated expansion of experiential freedoms-of-choice and the transformative problem-solving potential of artificial intelligence are undeniable. But for all its successes, reductive physicalism has failed to solve the so-called hard problem of consciousness. As a result, its successes are exposing humanity to an intensifying confluence of existential and ethical risks as the digitally mediated attention economy and intelligent technology facilitate a fundamental restructuring of the dynamics of human presence. Making use of Buddhist conceptual resources and drawing out their implications regarding causality and agency, this paper offers a nondualist and nonreductionist approach to theorizing consciousness and evolutionary dynamics in ways that are suited to opening an ethically productive “middle path” to critically rethinking the so-called Fourth Industrial Revolution and more positively configuring the evolution human–technology–world relations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Theology and Science: Loving Science, Discovering the Divine)

10 pages, 3832 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

First Case of Human Ocular Dirofilariasis in the Aosta Valley Region: Clinical Management and Morphological-Molecular Confirmation

by Erik Mus, Annalisa Viani, Lorenzo Domenis, Fabio Maradei, Antonio Valastro, Gianluca Marucci, Claudio Giuseppe Giacomazzi, Silvia Carla Maria Magnani, Roberto Imparato, Annie Cometto, Adriano Casulli, Riccardo Orusa and Luca Ventre

Pathogens 2025, 14(5), 423; https://doi.org/10.3390/pathogens14050423 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Purpose: Dirofilariasis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by a species belonging to the Dirofilaria genus. Human dirofilariasis cases have increased in Europe in the last few decades. Dogs and wild canids represent the definitive hosts and principal reservoirs of Dirofilaria repens, while [...] Read more.

Purpose: Dirofilariasis is a zoonotic infectious disease caused by a species belonging to the Dirofilaria genus. Human dirofilariasis cases have increased in Europe in the last few decades. Dogs and wild canids represent the definitive hosts and principal reservoirs of Dirofilaria repens, while mosquito species are biological vectors. Humans act as accidental hosts, and clinical manifestations depend on the location of the worm in the organs or tissues. We described the first case of ocular dirofilariasis in the Aosta Valley region (Italy). Case description: a 62-year-old Italian woman complained of recurrent ocular redness, pain and discomfort, accompanied by itching and foreign body sensation in the right eye. The slit lamp biomicroscopic examination revealed conjunctival congestion on the temporal region of bulbar conjunctiva, and a long whitish vermiform mobile mass was detected under the conjunctiva. The anterior chamber showed no flare or cells in either eye, and the dilated fundus examination was normal. The worm was immediately surgically removed to prevent further migration, and was diagnosed morphologically and molecularly as D. repens. Following surgical removal, the symptoms resolved completely and rapidly, with no recurrence of ocular symptoms recorded during 12-month follow-up visits. Conclusions: Ocular dirofilariasis can lead to misdiagnosis due to its rare ocular manifestations, and it is considered an emergent zoonosis in European countries. Accurate diagnosis and control of ocular dirofilariasis by D. repens require a multidisciplinary approach under the One Health framework to effectively address this emergent zoonosis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue One Health and Neglected Zoonotic Diseases)

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21 pages, 1096 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of External Market Drivers on Global Value Chain Participation in Saudi Arabia: The Mediating Role of Technological Advancements

by Mazen Mohammed Farea and Abdullah A. Aljofi

Sustainability 2025, 17(9), 3946; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17093946 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

In today’s interconnected economy, participation in global value chains (GVCs) has become essential for firms seeking international competitiveness and economic sustainability. This is particularly relevant for emerging economies like Saudi Arabia that are pursuing economic diversification strategies. However, the relationship between external market [...] Read more.

In today’s interconnected economy, participation in global value chains (GVCs) has become essential for firms seeking international competitiveness and economic sustainability. This is particularly relevant for emerging economies like Saudi Arabia that are pursuing economic diversification strategies. However, the relationship between external market conditions and global trade integration remains unclear, especially regarding how technological advancement influences this relationship. This study investigates how technological progress mediates the effect of external market drivers—including economic stability, regulatory compliance, technological resources, cultural adaptation, and environmental policies—on GVC participation in Saudi Arabia. Using a quantitative approach, we collected survey data from 178 key decision makers and leaders across multiple sectors involved in strategic innovation and global market integration. Analysis using partial least squares structural equation modeling revealed that external market drivers significantly influence GVC participation (β = 0.739, p < 0.01), with technological advancement playing a substantial mediating role (β = 0.460, p < 0.01). Environmental policies and technological resources demonstrated direct effects on GVC participation, while regulatory compliance was fully mediated by technological advancement. These findings contribute to understanding how digital transformation enables trade integration in emerging economies. The results provide practical insights for policymakers and business leaders, highlighting the importance of investing in digital infrastructure and technology-enabled trade facilitation to enhance global competitiveness in an increasingly digital trade environment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Digital Technologies for Business Sustainability)

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21 pages, 459 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cognitive and Linguistic Influences on EFL Real Word and Pseudoword Spelling: Predictors and Error Analysis

by Heike Mlakar, Joanna Hirst-Plein and Martin J. Koch

Languages 2025, 10(5), 93; https://doi.org/10.3390/languages10050093 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

The present study aimed to enhance the understanding of the spelling processes used by young German-speaking learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). Specifically, we sought to (1) compare the children’s accuracy in spelling English real words versus pseudowords to elucidate the [...] Read more.

The present study aimed to enhance the understanding of the spelling processes used by young German-speaking learners of English as a foreign language (EFL). Specifically, we sought to (1) compare the children’s accuracy in spelling English real words versus pseudowords to elucidate the role of lexical and sublexical knowledge, and (2) determine which cognitive (phonological awareness, phonological short-term memory, working memory, nonverbal intelligence) and linguistic skills (English receptive grammar and vocabulary) underlie learners’ spelling abilities and misspellings (phonological and orthographic). We followed participants (N = 101) for two years, from the beginning of grade 3 to the end of grade 4. Cognitive skills and linguistic abilities were determined using standardized assessment procedures. Our results indicate that the learners in our study demonstrated greater accuracy in spelling English real words compared to pseudowords. English grammar knowledge significantly predicted real word and pseudoword spelling accuracy, as well as the number of phonological errors, which was the predominant error category. English vocabulary knowledge was a predictor for real word spelling, while nonverbal intelligence predicted pseudoword spelling accuracy. Phonological short-term memory positively predicted the number of orthographic errors (phonologically plausible misspellings but lacking orthographic conventions). Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cognition in Second Language Writing)

19 pages, 6470 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Impact of Extreme Weather Events on Grassland Growing Season Length on the Mongolian Plateau

by Wanyi Zhang, Qun Guo, Genan Wu, Kiril Manevski and Shenggong Li

Remote Sens. 2025, 17(9), 1560; https://doi.org/10.3390/rs17091560 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Quantifying extreme weather events (EWEs) and understanding their impacts on vegetation phenology is crucial for assessing ecosystem stability under climate change. This study systematically investigated the ecosystem growing season length (GL) response to four types of EWEs—extreme heat, extreme cold, extreme wetness (surplus [...] Read more.

Quantifying extreme weather events (EWEs) and understanding their impacts on vegetation phenology is crucial for assessing ecosystem stability under climate change. This study systematically investigated the ecosystem growing season length (GL) response to four types of EWEs—extreme heat, extreme cold, extreme wetness (surplus precipitation), and extreme drought (lack of precipitation). The EWE extremity thresholds were found statistically using detrended long time series (2000–2022) ERA5 meteorological data through z-score transformation. The analysis was based on a grassland ecosystem in the Mongolian Plateau (MP) from 2000 to 2022. Using solar-induced chlorophyll fluorescence data and event coincidence analysis, we evaluated the probability of GL anomalies coinciding with EWEs and assessed the vegetation sensitivity to climate variability. The analysis showed that 83.7% of negative and 87.4% of positive GL anomalies were associated with one or more EWEs, with extreme wetness (27.0%) and extreme heat (25.4%) contributing the most. These findings highlight the dominant role of EWEs in shaping phenological shifts. Negative GL anomalies were more strongly linked to EWEs, particularly in arid and cold regions where extreme drought and cold shortened the growing season. Conversely, extreme heat and wetness had a greater influence in warmer and wetter areas, driving both the lengthening and shortening of GL. Furthermore, background hydrothermal conditions modulated the vegetation sensitivity, with warmer regions being more susceptible to heat stress and drier regions more vulnerable to drought. These findings emphasize the importance of regional weather variability and climate characteristics in shaping vegetation phenology and provide new insights into how weather extremes impact ecosystem stability in semi-arid and arid regions. Future research should explore extreme weather events and the role of human activities to enhance predictions of vegetation–climate interactions in grassland ecosystems of the MP. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Multi-Source Remote Sensing Data for Water Resource Management in Agriculture)

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19 pages, 2747 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of Naphthenic Acids on Dynamic Fluid–Fluid Interactions: Implication for Enhanced Oil Recovery

by Bryan X. Medina-Rodriguez, Teresa M. Reilly, Teresa E. Lehmann and Vladimir Alvarado

Energies 2025, 18(9), 2231; https://doi.org/10.3390/en18092231 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Previous coreflooding results and wettability analyses in our group show that injection of naphthenic-acid-enriched water can improve oil recovery over traditional waterflooding. This observation is still a subject of research efforts without a definitive explanation. Naphthenic acids (NA) have been reported to drive [...] Read more.

Previous coreflooding results and wettability analyses in our group show that injection of naphthenic-acid-enriched water can improve oil recovery over traditional waterflooding. This observation is still a subject of research efforts without a definitive explanation. Naphthenic acids (NA) have been reported to drive wettability alteration and increase the water–oil interface elasticity. These alterations depend on the NA carbon number and aqueous-phase salinity, among other conditions, as reported in the literature. Smart-water flooding (SWF) research often links recovery to the initial wettability condition, being higher for initially oil-wet rock. SWF refers to a technique in which the aqueous-phase ion composition or/and salinity are changed to maximize oil recovery. Given NAs’ complex solution behavior, selecting acid combinations that prompt oil recovery is a difficult objective. The aim of this research is to determine the effects of select naphthenic acids on the oil–water interfacial rheology and wettability alteration and how these interfacial effects are associated with oil recovery under spontaneous imbibition. NAs were selected based on their carbon number, molecular structure, and solubility in the saline solution used in this research. We aimed at exploring which NAs should be used to regulate interfacial properties so as to either increase oil recovery or accelerate production. Time-domain nuclear magnetic resonance, interfacial dilatational rheology, and liquid-bridge experiments, i.e., proxy of snap-off, were conducted. A baseline was established using results obtained with a previously tested sulfate-rich aqueous phase, shown to be effective in recovering oil. Results show that NA14 and N18 increase the water–oil interfacial viscoelasticity and induce interfacial healing but led to different recovery factors. N10, while effective at inducing water wetness in oil-wet rock, is ineffective at increasing the recovery factor. We concluded that wettability and oil–water interfacial rheology are not exclusive, and instead they can synergistically favor EOR benefits. Moreover, oil recovery benefits under spontaneous imbibition are shown to depend strongly on the initial wettability conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section H: Geo-Energy)

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13 pages, 1924 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Enabling Stable Recycling of L-Arabinose Isomerase Through Whole-Cell Immobilization for Efficient and Cost-Effective D-Tagatose Production

by Zepeng Li, Runmin Wang, Xiantai Lai, Wenyi Liao, Runfeng Liao, Zhuohong Wu, Guoyan Zhang and Xianghui Qi

Foods 2025, 14(9), 1538; https://doi.org/10.3390/foods14091538 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

D-tagatose is a functional sweetener with glucose-regulating and prebiotic properties, but its bioproduction from D-galactose faces many limitations, particularly the high production costs. In particular, the current biosynthesis of D-tagatose suffers from thermal instability and the substrate selectivity issues of L-arabinose isomerase (L-AI) [...] Read more.

D-tagatose is a functional sweetener with glucose-regulating and prebiotic properties, but its bioproduction from D-galactose faces many limitations, particularly the high production costs. In particular, the current biosynthesis of D-tagatose suffers from thermal instability and the substrate selectivity issues of L-arabinose isomerase (L-AI) required to convert D-galactose into D-tagatose. In this study, recombinant Escherichia coli BW25113/pQE-80L-araA_F118M/F279I expressing double mutant L-AI was immobilized to enhance its stability and reusability. The optimal conditions for whole-cell catalysis were 60 °C, pH 6.5, 5 mM Mn²⁺, and 20 h, with a yield of 55.2 g/L of D-tagatose. Immobilization with 3% sodium alginate and 2% CaCl₂ retained 90% of the production efficiency displayed by free cells. Notably, the immobilized cells exhibited enhanced heat resistance (60–70 °C) and operational stability, retaining 76% activity after five cycles. The D-tagatose production was further increased to 129.43 g/L by increasing the substrate concentration to 250 g/L. Compared to free cells, immobilized cells retained 83.6% of the initial yield up to 10 batches. This study presents a cost-effective and sustainable method for the production of D-tagatose using optimized whole-cell catalysis through immobilization, which paves the way to solve industrial challenges such as thermal instability and low substrate efficiency. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Food Biotechnology and Enzyme Engineering)

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10 pages, 5727 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual-Band Topological Valley Cavity in Mid-Infrared Range

by Chen Kang, Jinling Yu, Can Chen, Yunfeng Lai, Shuying Cheng, Yonghai Chen, Yuan Li, Shuman Liu, Jinchuan Zhang and Fengqi Liu

Photonics 2025, 12(5), 420; https://doi.org/10.3390/photonics12050420 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Topological edge states, emerging at boundaries between regions with distinct topological properties, enable unidirectional transmission with robustness against defects and disorder. However, achieving dual-band operation with high performance remains challenging. Here, we integrate dual-band topological edge states into a valley photonic crystal cavity [...] Read more.

Topological edge states, emerging at boundaries between regions with distinct topological properties, enable unidirectional transmission with robustness against defects and disorder. However, achieving dual-band operation with high performance remains challenging. Here, we integrate dual-band topological edge states into a valley photonic crystal cavity operating in the mid-infrared region, leveraging triangular scatterers. A key contribution of this work is the simultaneous realization of ultra-high Q-factors (up to 6.1593 × 10⁹) and uniform mode distribution (inverse participation ratio < 2) across both bands. Moreover, the dual-band cavity exhibits exceptional defect tolerance. These findings provide a promising platform for mid-infrared photonic integration, paving the way for high-performance optical cavities in multifunctional photonic systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Lasers, Light Sources and Sensors)

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10 pages, 661 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effect of a Living–Learning Community on Nursing Student Outcomes—A Prospective Cohort Study

by Mary Bennett, Melissa Travelsted, Vickie Shoumake and Matthew Atkinson

Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(5), 144; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15050144 (registering DOI) - 28 Apr 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Prior studies have shown that most students seeking entry into a nursing program (also known as pre-nursing students) do not make it into the nursing profession, mostly due to failing one or more science courses in their first year of college. These [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Prior studies have shown that most students seeking entry into a nursing program (also known as pre-nursing students) do not make it into the nursing profession, mostly due to failing one or more science courses in their first year of college. These students give up on nursing, dropping out of college or changing to a less challenging major. Objectives: We aimed to determine the effect of a living learning community (LLC) on the retention and success of students seeking entry into a Baccalaureate Science Nursing (BSN) program. Methods: The aim of this descriptive, prospective cohort project was to improve student retention and success by creating a living–learning community (LLC) for first-year students preparing to apply to a BSN program. The effectiveness of this intervention was determined by comparing retention and success for those in the LLC with those who were not in the LLC over a period of 4 years. Results: Fewer students in the LLC dropped out of or failed college (21% vs. 33%), fewer changed majors (24% vs. 27%), and more were ultimately admitted to the BSN program (42% vs. 36%) during their 3rd year of college. Of those not admitted within the study’s timeframe, there were more students still preparing to apply to a BSN program than those not in the LLC (13% vs. 3%). Regarding minority outcomes, fewer LLC underrepresented minority (URM) students dropped out of college or failed (29% vs. 43%), but more of them changed majors and remained in college, working towards a college degree in another field of study (43% vs. 29%). There was no apparent effect of participation in the LLC program on minority student nursing program admission success. An equal percentage (29%) of minority students from the LLC group and the non-LLC group were admitted to the BSN program during this study. Conclusions: The limitations affecting this study include the prohibition of large face-to-face gatherings during the initial part of this study and the lingering effects of the pandemic and infection control efforts on student learning outcomes. As reported in prior research, first-year nursing students have a high risk of failing or dropping out of college. However, the students who were able to participate in the LLC demonstrated better student outcomes than those who did not, resulting in more students who were able to move towards their goal of becoming a nurse. Full article

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