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22 pages, 6781 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Seasonal Variation in Flower Traits, Visitor Traits, and Reproductive Success of Solanum sisymbriifolium Lamarck (Solanaceae) in the Rarh Region of West Bengal, India

by Ujjwal Layek, Pappu Majhi, Alokesh Das, Prakash Karmakar and Arijit Kundu

Biology 2025, 14(7), 865; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14070865 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The wild tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is a globally distributed shrubby weed with both negative and positive impacts, including its invasive properties and the potential for pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal uses. Despite its ecological significance, the plant’s reproductive biology and pollination ecology [...] Read more.

The wild tomato (Solanum sisymbriifolium) is a globally distributed shrubby weed with both negative and positive impacts, including its invasive properties and the potential for pharmaceutical and traditional medicinal uses. Despite its ecological significance, the plant’s reproductive biology and pollination ecology remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the floral biology, pollination ecology, and plant reproduction of the weed species. Some flower traits, such as flowering intensity, flower display size, and pollen and ovule production, peaked during spring, summer, and the monsoon, while flower longevity and stigmatic receptivity were the longest in winter. The plant species was self-compatible (ISI = 0.02), heavily depended on pollinators (IDP = 0.72), and experienced minimal pollination limitation (D = 0.10) under open-pollination conditions. Flower visitors’ traits (e.g., abundance, diversity, and richness) were higher in the spring, summer, and the monsoon, and these were lower in winter. The vital pollination service was provided by Amegilla zonata, Ceratina binghami, Lasioglossum cavernifrons, Nomia (Curvinomia) striata, Tetragonula pagdeni, Xylocopa aestuans, Xylocopa amethystina, Xylocopa fenestrata, and Xylocopa latipes. Reproductive success, as indicated by fruit and seed set, varied seasonally, being higher during the spring–monsoon period and lower in winter. These findings support effective management of this weed species and help conserve the associated bee populations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pollination Biology)

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11 pages, 589 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Long-Term Prognosis in Patients with ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction Complicated by Heart Failure with Preserved Left Ventricular Ejection Fraction

by Lidija Savic, Damjan Simic, Ratko Lasica, Gordana Krljanac, Dragan Matic, Milika Asanin, Sanja Stankovic, Nebojsa Antonijevic and Igor Mrdovic

J. Cardiovasc. Dev. Dis. 2025, 12(7), 272; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcdd12070272 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background/aim: We aimed to analyze eight-year mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by the development of in-hospital heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Method: We analyzed 3260 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI (pPCI). Reduced EF was defined as [...] Read more.

Background/aim: We aimed to analyze eight-year mortality in patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) complicated by the development of in-hospital heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Method: We analyzed 3260 STEMI patients treated with primary PCI (pPCI). Reduced EF was defined as value <50% and preserved EF as value ≥50%. Patients were divided in three groups: without HF, with HFpEF, and with HF with reduced EF (HFrEF). Patients with cardiogenic shock at admission were excluded. Results: In-hospital HF was registered in 759 (23.2%) patients. Among the patients with in-hospital HF, 80 (10.5%) patients had HFpEF. Patients with HFpEF had significantly higher 8-year mortality compared with patients without HF (11.2% vs. 3.5%, respectively, p < 0.001), but significantly lower mortality compared with patients with HFrEF: 11.2% vs. 25.1%, respectively, p < 0.001. In the Cox regression model, HFpEF and HFrEF were independent predictors for 8-year mortality-HFpEF: HR1.85 (95%CI 1.26–4.25); HFrEF: 4.89 (95%CI 3.19–6.42). Conclusion: Development of in-hospital HFpEF in STEMI patients was an independent predictor for long-term mortality. The negative prognostic impact of HFpEF was weaker when compared to the impact of in-hospital HFrEF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Cardiovascular Clinical Research)

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14 pages, 1611 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Explaining Echis: Proteotranscriptomic Profiling of Echis carinatus carinatus Venom

by Salil Javed, Prasad Gopalkrishna Gond, Arpan Samanta, Ajinkya Unawane, Muralidhar Nayak Mudavath, Anurag Jaglan and Kartik Sunagar

Toxins 2025, 17(7), 353; https://doi.org/10.3390/toxins17070353 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Snakebite remains the most neglected tropical disease globally, with India experiencing the highest rates of mortality and morbidity. While most envenomation cases in India are attributed to the ‘big four’ snakes, research has predominantly focused on Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), [...] Read more.

Snakebite remains the most neglected tropical disease globally, with India experiencing the highest rates of mortality and morbidity. While most envenomation cases in India are attributed to the ‘big four’ snakes, research has predominantly focused on Russell’s viper (Daboia russelii), spectacled cobra (Naja naja), and common krait (Bungarus caeruleus), leading to a considerable gap in our understanding of saw-scaled viper (Echis carinatus carinatus) venoms. For instance, the venom gland transcriptome and inter- and intra-population venom variation in E. c. carinatus have largely remained uninvestigated. A single study to date has assessed the effectiveness of commercial antivenoms against this species under in vivo conditions. To address these crucial knowledge gaps, we conducted a detailed investigation of E. c. carinatus venom and reported the first venom gland transcriptome. A proteotranscriptomic evaluation revealed snake venom metalloproteinases, C-type lectins, L-amino acid oxidases, phospholipase A₂s, and snake venom serine proteases as the major toxins. Moreover, we assessed the intra-population venom variation in this species using an array of biochemical analyses. Finally, we determined the venom toxicity and the neutralising efficacy of a commercial antivenom using a murine model of snake envenoming. Our results provide a thorough molecular and functional profile of E. c. carinatus venom. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Venom Genes and Genomes of Venomous Animals: Evolution and Variation)

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19 pages, 3520 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vision-Guided Maritime UAV Rescue System with Optimized GPS Path Planning and Dual-Target Tracking

by Suli Wang, Yang Zhao, Chang Zhou, Xiaodong Ma, Zijun Jiao, Zesheng Zhou, Xiaolu Liu, Tianhai Peng and Changxing Shao

Drones 2025, 9(7), 502; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9070502 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

With the global increase in maritime activities, the frequency of maritime accidents has risen, underscoring the urgent need for faster and more efficient search and rescue (SAR) solutions. This study presents an intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based maritime rescue system that combines GPS-driven [...] Read more.

With the global increase in maritime activities, the frequency of maritime accidents has risen, underscoring the urgent need for faster and more efficient search and rescue (SAR) solutions. This study presents an intelligent unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV)-based maritime rescue system that combines GPS-driven dynamic path planning with vision-based dual-target detection and tracking. Developed within the Gazebo simulation environment and based on modular ROS architecture, the system supports stable takeoff and smooth transitions between multi-rotor and fixed-wing flight modes. An external command module enables real-time waypoint updates. This study proposes three path-planning schemes based on the characteristics of drones. Comparative experiments have demonstrated that the triangular path is the optimal route. Compared with the other schemes, this path reduces the flight distance by 30–40%. Robust target recognition is achieved using a darknet-ROS implementation of the YOLOv4 model, enhanced with data augmentation to improve performance in complex maritime conditions. A monocular vision-based ranging algorithm ensures accurate distance estimation and continuous tracking of rescue vessels. Furthermore, a dual-target-tracking algorithm—integrating motion prediction with color-based landing zone recognition—achieves a 96% success rate in precision landings under dynamic conditions. Experimental results show a 4% increase in the overall mission success rate compared to traditional SAR methods, along with significant gains in responsiveness and reliability. This research delivers a technically innovative and cost-effective UAV solution, offering strong potential for real-world maritime emergency response applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Innovative Applications of UAVs in Search and Rescue: Improving Safety and Effectiveness)

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15 pages, 566 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Changes in Mimic Muscle Tone During Early Orthodontic Treatment: An sEMG Study

by Oskar Komisarek, Roksana Malak and Paweł Burduk

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(14), 5048; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14145048 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Surface electromyography (sEMG) enables the non-invasive assessment of muscle activity and is widely used in orthodontics for evaluating masticatory muscles. However, little is known about the dynamic changes in facial expression muscles during orthodontic treatment. This study aimed to investigate alterations in [...] Read more.

Background: Surface electromyography (sEMG) enables the non-invasive assessment of muscle activity and is widely used in orthodontics for evaluating masticatory muscles. However, little is known about the dynamic changes in facial expression muscles during orthodontic treatment. This study aimed to investigate alterations in facial muscle tone during the leveling and alignment phase in adult female patients undergoing fixed appliance therapy. Methods: The study included 30 female patients aged 20–31 years who underwent sEMG assessment at four time points: before treatment initiation (T0), at the start of appliance placement (T1), three months into treatment (T2), and six months into treatment (T3). Muscle activity was recorded during four standardized facial expressions: eye closure, nasal strain, broad smile, and lip protrusion. Electrodes were placed on the orbicularis oris, orbicularis oculi, zygomaticus major, and levator labii superioris alaeque nasi muscles. A total of 1440 measurements were analyzed using Friedman and Conover-Inman tests (α = 0.05). Results: Significant changes in muscle tone were observed during treatment. During lip protrusion, the orbicularis oris and zygomaticus major showed significant increases in peak and minimum activity (p < 0.01). Eye closure was associated with altered orbicularis oris activation bilaterally at T3 (p < 0.01). Nasal strain induced significant changes in zygomaticus and levator labii muscle tone, particularly on the right side (p < 0.05). No significant changes were noted during broad smiling. Conclusions: Orthodontic leveling and alignment influence the activity of selected facial expression muscles, demonstrating a dynamic neuromuscular adaptation during treatment. These findings highlight the importance of considering soft tissue responses in orthodontic biomechanics and suggest potential implications for facial esthetics and muscle function monitoring. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Dentistry, Oral Surgery and Oral Medicine)

17 pages, 7078 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Synthesis and Catalytic Performance of Cotton-Derived Mn–Ce and Mn–Co–Ce Biomorphic Fibers for Soot Combustion and CO Oxidation

by Nicolás Sacco, Ezequiel Banús, Juan P. Bortolozzi, Sabrina Leonardi, Eduardo Miró and Viviana Milt

Sustain. Chem. 2025, 6(3), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/suschem6030020 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Biomorphic mineralization was employed to synthesize novel Mn–Ce and Mn–Co–Ce oxide fibers using commercial cotton as a biotemplate, aiming to assess their catalytic performance in diesel soot combustion and CO oxidation. Two synthesis protocols—one with and one without citric acid—were investigated. The inclusion [...] Read more.

Biomorphic mineralization was employed to synthesize novel Mn–Ce and Mn–Co–Ce oxide fibers using commercial cotton as a biotemplate, aiming to assess their catalytic performance in diesel soot combustion and CO oxidation. Two synthesis protocols—one with and one without citric acid—were investigated. The inclusion of citric acid led to fibers with more uniform morphology, attributed to improved precursor distribution, although synthesis yields decreased for Co-containing systems. In soot combustion tests, Mn–Ce catalysts synthesized with citric acid outperformed their monometallic counterparts. While cobalt incorporation enhanced the mechanical robustness of the fibers, it did not significantly boost catalytic activity. Selected formulations were also evaluated for CO oxidation, with Mn–Co–Ce fibers achieving T₅₀ values in the 240–290 °C range, comparable to Co–Ce nanofibers reported in the literature. These results demonstrate that biomorphic fibers produced through a simple and sustainable route can offer competitive performance in soot and CO oxidation applications. Full article

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18 pages, 1047 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Eye Movement Patterns as Indicators of Text Complexity in Arabic: A Comparative Analysis of Classical and Modern Standard Arabic

by Hend Al-Khalifa

J. Eye Mov. Res. 2025, 18(4), 30; https://doi.org/10.3390/jemr18040030 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study investigates eye movement patterns as indicators of text complexity in Arabic, focusing on the comparative analysis of Classical Arabic (CA) and Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) text. Using the AraEyebility corpus, which contains eye-tracking data from readers of both CA and MSA [...] Read more.

This study investigates eye movement patterns as indicators of text complexity in Arabic, focusing on the comparative analysis of Classical Arabic (CA) and Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) text. Using the AraEyebility corpus, which contains eye-tracking data from readers of both CA and MSA text, we examined differences in fixation patterns, regression rates, and overall reading behavior between these two forms of Arabic. Our analyses revealed significant differences in eye movement metrics between CA and MSA text, with CA text consistently eliciting more fixations, longer fixation durations, and more frequent revisits. Multivariate analysis confirmed that language type has a significant combined effect on eye movement patterns. Additionally, we identified different relationships between text features and eye movements for CA versus MSA text, with sentence-level features emerging as significant predictors across both language types. Notably, we observed an interaction between language type and readability level, with readers showing less sensitivity to readability variations in CA text compared to MSA text. These findings contribute to our understanding of how historical language evolution affects reading behavior and have practical implications for Arabic language education, publishing, and assessment. The study demonstrates the value of eye movement analysis for understanding text complexity in Arabic and highlights the importance of considering language-specific features when studying reading processes. Full article

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22 pages, 929 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Salsola tragus as a Forage Source During Fattening on Productivity and Meat Metabolomics of Rambouillet Lambs

by José Alejandro Roque-Jiménez, Lorena Diaz de León-Martinez, German David Mendoza-Martínez, Rogelio Flores-Ramírez, Guillermo Espinosa-Reyes, Alejandro E. Relling, Ulises Macias-Cruz, Marisol López-Romero and Héctor Aarón Lee-Rangel

Ruminants 2025, 5(3), 32; https://doi.org/10.3390/ruminants5030032 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The aims of the current study were to characterize the natural compounds of Salsola tragus via GC-MS and determine its effects as a forage source on lamb growth, in vitro rumen fermentation kinetics, carcass quality, cellular damage, and metabolomic meat interaction. Twenty-one Rambouillet [...] Read more.

The aims of the current study were to characterize the natural compounds of Salsola tragus via GC-MS and determine its effects as a forage source on lamb growth, in vitro rumen fermentation kinetics, carcass quality, cellular damage, and metabolomic meat interaction. Twenty-one Rambouillet lambs were randomly assigned to one of three experimental diets (seven lambs per treatment): (1) a control diet (W/o-Salsola) containing 300 g/Kg dry matter (DM) of sorghum stover; (2) a diet with a medium inclusion of Salsola tragus (15-Salsola), which contained 150 g/Kg DM of Salsola tragus and 150 g/Kg DM of sorghum stover; and (3) a diet comprising 300 g/Kg of Salsola tragus (30-Salsola). The results showed there were no differences (p > 0.05) in lamb growth performance during the fattening phase. The in vitro gas analysis demonstrated that the 30-Salsola treatment increased lag time h⁻¹ (p < 0.05) and reduced gas production (p = 0.03). The metabolomic analysis findings suggest that the treatments that included Salsola tragus significantly positively affect the metabolomic composition of meat (p < 0.05). The use of 15-Salsola as a source of forage is promising for feeding lambs during the fattening phase. Full article

8 pages, 212 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

‘Crystal Meth’ Use in an Addiction Outpatient Clinic in Italy: A Multifaceted Challenge

by Filippo Besana, Stefano Pasquariello, Attilio Negri and Valentina Costa

Psychoactives 2025, 4(3), 25; https://doi.org/10.3390/psychoactives4030025 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Shaboo is a street name commonly used in parts of Asia, particularly the Philippines and Thailand, to refer to methamphetamine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant. Its long-term effects are related to chronic exposure to the drug effects, primarily neurotoxicity phenomena, which could [...] Read more.

Shaboo is a street name commonly used in parts of Asia, particularly the Philippines and Thailand, to refer to methamphetamine, a powerful and highly addictive stimulant. Its long-term effects are related to chronic exposure to the drug effects, primarily neurotoxicity phenomena, which could lead to cognitive impairment, or psychiatric symptoms. We aim to present one case of problematic shaboo use in a patient referring to an addiction outpatient clinic in Northern Italy. This case highlights that the treatment of these patients involves careful multidisciplinary management. An accurate knowledge of the physical and psychological effects of New Psychoactive Substances is essential, as well as the implementation of a tailored psychological and social support program. Full article

10 pages, 229 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Incidence of Oncocytoma and Angiomyolipoma in Patients Undergoing Nephron-Sparing Surgery for Small Renal Masses

by Stelian Ianiotescu, Constantin Gingu, Irina Balescu, Nicolae Bacalbasa, Cristian Balalau and Ioanel Sinescu

J. Mind Med. Sci. 2025, 12(2), 38; https://doi.org/10.3390/jmms12020038 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background: Oncocytoma and angiomyolipoma (AML) are benign renal tumors that may mimic malignant lesions on imaging. With the increasing use of partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal masses, accurate preoperative characterization of these lesions is essential. This study highlights the role of partial nephrectomy [...] Read more.

Background: Oncocytoma and angiomyolipoma (AML) are benign renal tumors that may mimic malignant lesions on imaging. With the increasing use of partial nephrectomy (PN) for renal masses, accurate preoperative characterization of these lesions is essential. This study highlights the role of partial nephrectomy as a valuable diagnostic tool in situations where imaging is inconclusive or raises concern for malignancy without definitive confirmation. In the absence of a reliable preoperative diagnosis, partial nephrectomy provides direct histologic verification with minimal perioperative morbidity. Moreover, it offers curative potential when malignancy is present. By achieving both diagnostic certainty and renal preservation, this approach is well-suited for clinical scenarios in which imaging ambiguity might otherwise result in overtreatment through radical surgery or undertreatment Material and methods: in this retrospective study, we reviewed our 5-year experience (2019–2024), 188 partial nephrectomies—including bilateral procedures and operations on solitary kidneys—using robotic and open approaches. All of these 30 tumors were solid renal masses with indeterminate imaging features or suspicious characteristics suggestive of malignancy, further underscoring the limitations of current preoperative diagnostic modalities. Results: Histopathological evaluation confirmed benign renal tumors in 30 cases, with oncocytoma diagnosed in 18 cases (16 robotic, 2 open) and AML in 12 cases (9 robotic, 3 open). Conclusions: Even when imaging raises suspicion of malignancy or remains inconclusive, many small renal masses are ultimately confirmed as benign upon histopathological examination. This study underscores the diagnostic uncertainty associated with small renal tumors and highlights the value of partial nephrectomy as a decisive diagnostic intervention. In situations where non-invasive modalities fail to provide definitive answers, partial nephrectomy offers tissue confirmation with minimal morbidity. Furthermore, when malignancy is present, this approach ensures appropriate oncologic management while preserving renal function. Our findings support the integration of this strategy into routine clinical practice, particularly when diagnostic clarity is essential for guiding safe and effective treatment. Full article

18 pages, 1287 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monitoring of Corrosion in Reinforced E-Waste Concrete Subjected to Chloride-Laden Environment Using Embedded Piezo Sensor

by Gaurav Kumar, Tushar Bansal and Dayanand Sharma

Constr. Mater. 2025, 5(3), 46; https://doi.org/10.3390/constrmater5030046 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study explores the use of embedded piezo sensor (EPS) employing the Electro-Mechanical Impedance (EMI) technique for real-time corrosion monitoring in reinforced E-waste concrete exposed to chloride-laden environments. With the growing environmental concerns over electronic waste (E-waste) and the demand for sustainable construction [...] Read more.

This study explores the use of embedded piezo sensor (EPS) employing the Electro-Mechanical Impedance (EMI) technique for real-time corrosion monitoring in reinforced E-waste concrete exposed to chloride-laden environments. With the growing environmental concerns over electronic waste (E-waste) and the demand for sustainable construction practices, printed circuit board (PCB) materials were incorporated as partial replacements for coarse aggregates in concrete. The experiment utilized M30-grade concrete mixes, substituting 15% of natural coarse aggregates with E-waste, aiming to assess both sustainability and structural performance without compromising durability. EPS configured with Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) patches were embedded into both conventional and E-waste concrete specimens. The EPS monitored the changes in the form of conductance and susceptance signatures across a 100–400 kHz frequency range during accelerated corrosion exposure over a 60-day period in a 3.5% NaCl solution. The corrosion progression was evaluated qualitatively through electrical impedance signatures, visually via rust formation and cracking, and quantitatively using the Root Mean Square Deviation (RMSD) of EMI signatures. The results showed that the EMI technique effectively captured the initiation and propagation stages of corrosion. E-waste concrete exhibited earlier and more severe signs of corrosion compared to conventional concrete, indicated by faster increases and subsequent declines in conductance and susceptance and higher RMSD values during the initiation phase. The EMI-based system demonstrated its capability to detect microstructural changes at early stages, making it a promising method for Structural Health Monitoring (SHM) of sustainable concretes. The study concludes that while the use of E-waste in concrete contributes positively to sustainability, it may compromise long-term durability in aggressive environments. However, the integration of EPS and EMI offers a reliable, non-destructive, and sensitive technique for real-time corrosion monitoring, supporting preventive maintenance and improved infrastructure longevity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in the Sustainability and Durability of Waste-Based Construction Materials)

12 pages, 1565 KiB

Open AccessCase Report

Severe Rectal Syphilis in the Setting of Profound HIV Immunosuppression: A Case Report Highlighting ERG/CD38 Immunophenotyping and a Review of the Literature

by Diana Marcela Carmona Valencia, Juan Diego López, Shirley Vanessa Correa Forero, Diana Marcela Bonilla Bonilla, Jorge Karim Assis and Yamil Liscano

Infect. Dis. Rep. 2025, 17(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/idr17040085 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background and Aim: Syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum, classically presents with genital or anal chancres; rectal involvement is rare and frequently misdiagnosed as inflammatory bowel disease or malignancy. We describe an unusually severe case of syphilitic proctitis in the setting of advanced [...] Read more.

Background and Aim: Syphilis, caused by Treponema pallidum, classically presents with genital or anal chancres; rectal involvement is rare and frequently misdiagnosed as inflammatory bowel disease or malignancy. We describe an unusually severe case of syphilitic proctitis in the setting of advanced HIV-related immunosuppression (CD4 39 cells/µL), in which targeted immunophenotyping (ERG and CD38) was a valuable adjunctive tool in the differential diagnosis. Case Presentation: A 46-year-old man with a recent history of erosive gastritis and esophageal candidiasis presented after six months of unintentional 20 kg weight loss, profound fatigue, intermittent fevers, profuse diarrhea, and two episodes of hematemesis. Workup revealed a new diagnosis of HIV infection (CD4: 39 cells/µL; viral load: 87,837 copies/mL). Contrast-enhanced CT demonstrated uniform, concentric rectal wall thickening (“target sign”). Colonoscopic biopsy showed exuberant granulation tissue and dense plasma cell infiltrates. Immunohistochemistry revealed a dense infiltrate of CD38-positive plasma cells and ERG-positive endothelial proliferation. These findings, in the context of positive serology, were highly supportive of a spirochetal etiology and helped differentiate it from potential mimics. Serology was positive for latent late syphilis (VDRL 1:64). The patient received three weekly doses of intramuscular benzathine penicillin; lumbar puncture excluded neurosyphilis. Discussion: This is among the first reported cases of syphilitic proctitis in a patient with CD4 < 50 cells/µL, where advanced immunophenotyping differentiated syphilitic inflammation from neoplastic or inflammatory mimics. Profound immunosuppression accelerates disease progression and yields atypical clinical features. Conclusion: In HIV-infected patients with chronic rectal symptoms, especially those with CD4 < 50 cells/µL, syphilitic proctitis must be considered. Integration of radiologic assessment, histopathology with ERG/CD38 staining, and serologic testing permits prompt diagnosis. Early benzathine penicillin therapy and rigorous clinical and serologic follow-up are essential to prevent complications, including neurosyphilis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Bacterial Diseases)

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16 pages, 2853 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Owl Habitat Use and Diets After Fire and Salvage Logging

by Angelina J. Kelly, Frank I. Doyle and Karen E. Hodges

Fire 2025, 8(7), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8070281 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Megafires are transforming western boreal forests, and many burned forests are salvage logged, removing more structure from landscapes and delaying forest regeneration. We studied forest-dwelling owls in a post-fire and salvage-logged landscape in central British Columbia, Canada, in 2018–2019 after the 2010 Meldrum [...] Read more.

Megafires are transforming western boreal forests, and many burned forests are salvage logged, removing more structure from landscapes and delaying forest regeneration. We studied forest-dwelling owls in a post-fire and salvage-logged landscape in central British Columbia, Canada, in 2018–2019 after the 2010 Meldrum Creek Fire and the 2017 Hanceville Fire. We examined owl habitat selection via call surveys compared to the habitats available in this landscape. Owl pellets were dissected to determine owl diets. We detected six owl species, of which Northern Saw-whet Owls (Aegolius acadicus) were the most common. Owls had weak and variable habitat selection within an 800 m radius of detections; all species used some burned area. Great Gray Owls (Strix nebulosa) and Great Horned Owls (Bubo virginanus) obtained more prey from mature forests (e.g., red-backed voles, Myodes gapperi, snowshoe hares, Lepus americanus) than other owls did, whereas other owls primarily consumed small mammals that were common in burned or salvaged areas. These results indicate a diverse community of owls can use landscapes within a decade after wildfire, potentially with some prey switching to take advantage of prey that use disturbed habitats. Despite that, owl numbers were low and some owls consumed prey that were not available in salvage-logged areas, suggesting that impacts on owls were more severe from the combination of fire and salvage logging than from fire alone. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Applications of Computational Statistics to Wildfire Science and Management)

14 pages, 736 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sfm Fimbriae Play an Important Role in the Pathogenicity of Escherichia coli CE129

by Yang Yang, Mingliang Chen, Zixin Han, Congrui Zhu, Ziyan Wu, Junpeng Li and Guoqiang Zhu

Microbiol. Res. 2025, 16(7), 160; https://doi.org/10.3390/microbiolres16070160 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is highly infective in poultry, causing significant economic losses to the poultry industry. As an extraintestinal pathogenic strain, adherence is a critical step in the infection. The functions of several adhesins, including type I, P, and Curli fimbriae, [...] Read more.

Avian pathogenic Escherichia coli (APEC) is highly infective in poultry, causing significant economic losses to the poultry industry. As an extraintestinal pathogenic strain, adherence is a critical step in the infection. The functions of several adhesins, including type I, P, and Curli fimbriae, have been extensively studied. However, the roles of other adhesins, like Sfm, remain largely unexplored. Sfm is widely present in E. coli. Although the Sfm cluster is an ortholog of the fim gene cluster of Salmonella type I fimbriae, the biological function of Sfm in APEC has not yet been elucidated. To investigate whether Sfm in APEC CE129 plays a role in virulence, in this study, we constructed recombinant strains by expressing Sfm in the fimbriae-deficient strain SE5000. Additionally, a CE129 sfmA mutant strain was constructed. The resulting changes in adherence, biofilm formation, resistance to macrophage phagocytosis, and resistance to serum bactericidal ability were observed. The adherence ability of CE129ΔsfmA was reduced by 41%. HD-11 cells demonstrated a 30% increase in the phagocytosis of CE129ΔsfmA, and a 50% reduction in SE5000 (pBR322-sfm). The sfm deletion mutant showed a 23.9% reduction in the resistance to serum bactericidal ability, while SE5000 (pBR322-sfm) displayed a 32% increase. SE5000 (pBR322-sfm) exhibited a 34% increase in biofilm formation, and CE129ΔsfmA demonstrated a 21% decrease. Real-time PCR was employed to examine the impact of Sfm deletion on the transcription level of key virulence factors (fimA, fliC, papC, tsh, ompA, and iss). The results indicated that Sfm in CE129 is closely associated with bacterial adherence and survivability, contributing to biofilm formation and influencing the expression of key virulence factors. This study yields initial insight into the functional roles of Sfm in APEC and provides a foundation for the effective control of E. coli in the poultry industry. Full article

21 pages, 5333 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Climate Extremes, Vegetation, and Lightning: Regional Fire Drivers Across Eurasia and North America

by Flavio Justino, David H. Bromwich, Jackson Rodrigues, Carlos Gurjão and Sheng-Hung Wang

Fire 2025, 8(7), 282; https://doi.org/10.3390/fire8070282 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study examines the complex interactions among soil moisture, evaporation, extreme weather events, and lightning, and their influence on fire activity across the extratropical and Pan-Arctic regions. Leveraging reanalysis and remote-sensing datasets from 2000 to 2020, we applied cross-correlation analysis, a modified Mann–Kendall [...] Read more.

This study examines the complex interactions among soil moisture, evaporation, extreme weather events, and lightning, and their influence on fire activity across the extratropical and Pan-Arctic regions. Leveraging reanalysis and remote-sensing datasets from 2000 to 2020, we applied cross-correlation analysis, a modified Mann–Kendall trend test, and assessments of interannual variability to key variables including soil moisture, fire frequency and risk, evaporation, and lightning. Results indicate a significant increase in dry days (up to 40%) and heatwave events across Central Eurasia and Siberia (up to 50%) and Alaska (25%), when compared to the 1980–2000 baseline. Upward trends have been detected in evaporation across most of North America, consistent with soil moisture trends, while much of Eurasia exhibits declining soil moisture. Fire danger shows a strong positive correlation with evaporation north of 60° N (r ≈ 0.7, p ≤ 0.005), but a negative correlation in regions south of this latitude. These findings suggest that in mid-latitude ecosystems, fire activity is not solely driven by water stress or atmospheric dryness, highlighting the importance of region-specific surface–atmosphere interactions in shaping fire regimes. In North America, most fires occur in temperate grasslands, savannas, and shrublands (47%), whereas in Eurasia, approximately 55% of fires are concentrated in forests/taiga and temperate open biomes. The analysis also highlights that lightning-related fires are more prevalent in Eastern Europe and Southeastern Asia. In contrast, Western North America exhibits high fire incidence in temperate conifer forests despite relatively low lightning activity, indicating a dominant role of anthropogenic ignition. These findings underscore the importance of understanding land–atmosphere interactions in assessing fire risk. Integrating surface conditions, climate extremes, and ignition sources into fire prediction models is crucial for developing more effective wildfire prevention and management strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Fire Science Models, Remote Sensing, and Data)

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17 pages, 444 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Effect of Extended Dissection of Lymph Nodes (D2plus) with Gastrectomy on the Clinical and Oncological Outcomes in Gastric Cancer Patients, Compared to a Standard Dissection (D2)

by Sahar Lazari, Muhammad Masalha, Forat Swaid, Walid Shalata, Gideon Sroka, Weam Waked and Abed Agbarya

Medicina 2025, 61(7), 1284; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61071284 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background and Objectives: Gastric cancer treatment of partial or complete gastrectomy includes lymph nodes dissection (D2) to remove microscopic lymph node metastases adjacent to the tumor. A more extensive approach, an extended dissection (D2plus) has recently been employed, which includes resection of [...] Read more.

Background and Objectives: Gastric cancer treatment of partial or complete gastrectomy includes lymph nodes dissection (D2) to remove microscopic lymph node metastases adjacent to the tumor. A more extensive approach, an extended dissection (D2plus) has recently been employed, which includes resection of the lymph nodes in the pancreatic and periportal areas. However, despite its potential benefits of longer survival for patients diagnosed with advanced cancer, there are increased risks due to surgical complications. The current study aims to examine the balance between clinical benefit and higher risks of the extended dissection approach versus standard dissection. Materials and Methods: This retrospective analysis of gastric cancer patients treated in Bnai-Zion medical center examined the survival rates, oncological outcomes, and complication rates according to medical records data files. Results: The D2plus group experienced increased postoperative complications rate (56% vs. 20.6% D2 group p = 0.005) with mean survival time, shorter than the D2 standard approach (2.07 years vs. 3.44 years p = 0.01). A higher number of lymph nodes was removed on average in the D2plus group (29.4 ± 11.2), but without statistical significance in comparison to the D2 group (22.6 ± 8.9, p = 0.013). D2plus patients had reduced disease recurrence rates (20% vs. 32.4% in D2 group p = 0.29). Weight loss of D2plus patients was noted for higher rates than the D2 group (40% vs. 17.6% p = 0.056. Conclusions: Our study provides preliminary insights into the comparison between D2 and D2plus dissection in a single-center Western cohort. However, significant baseline differences between groups, particularly age, gender, and histopathological characteristics, limit definitive conclusions. The findings should be interpreted as hypothesis-generating rather than practice-changing. Larger, prospective, multicenter studies with propensity score matching or randomized design are needed to definitively establish the optimal surgical approach for different patient subgroups. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Gastroenterology & Hepatology)

16 pages, 6475 KiB

Open AccessReview

Fully Digital Workflow in Full-Arch Implant Rehabilitation: A Descriptive Methodological Review

by Chantal Auduc, Thomas Douillard, Emmanuel Nicolas and Nada El Osta

Prosthesis 2025, 7(4), 85; https://doi.org/10.3390/prosthesis7040085 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background. Digital dentistry continues to evolve, offering improved accuracy, efficiency, and patient experience across various prosthodontic procedures. Many previous reviews have focused on digital applications in prosthodontics. But the use of a fully digital workflow for full-arch implant-supported prostheses in edentulous patients remains [...] Read more.

Background. Digital dentistry continues to evolve, offering improved accuracy, efficiency, and patient experience across various prosthodontic procedures. Many previous reviews have focused on digital applications in prosthodontics. But the use of a fully digital workflow for full-arch implant-supported prostheses in edentulous patients remains an emerging and underexplored area in the literature. Objective. This article presents a comprehensive methodological review of the digital workflow in full-arch implant-supported rehabilitation. It follows a structured literature exploration and synthesizes relevant technological processes from patient assessment to prosthetic delivery. Methods. The relevant literature was retrieved from the PubMed database on 20 June 2024, to identify the most recent and relevant studies. A total of 22 articles met the eligibility criteria and were included in the review. The majority included case and technical reports. Results. The review illustrates the integration and application of digital tools in implant dentistry, including cone-beam computed tomography (CBCT) exposure, intraoral scanning, digital smile design, virtual patients, guided surgery, and digital scanning. The key findings demonstrate multiple advantages of a fully digital workflow, such as reduced treatment time and cost, increased patient satisfaction, and improved interdisciplinary communication. Conclusions. Despite these benefits, limitations persist due to the low level of evidence, technological challenges, and the lack of standardized protocols. Further randomized controlled trials and long-term clinical evaluations are essential to validate the effectiveness and feasibility of a fully digital workflow for full-arch implant-supported rehabilitation. Full article

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19 pages, 3497 KiB

Open AccessFeature PaperArticle

Assessment of Electromagnetic Exposure to a Child and a Pregnant Woman Inside an Elevator in Mobile Frequencies

by Ioanna Karatsi, Sofia Bakogianni and Stavros Koulouridis

Telecom 2025, 6(3), 52; https://doi.org/10.3390/telecom6030052 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

This study presents an in-depth dosimetry analysis of energy assimilation from EM waves and increase in the temperature during mobile phone usage within an elevator cabin. The cellphone operates at two different frequencies (1000 MHz and 1800 MHz) and is simulated at three [...] Read more.

This study presents an in-depth dosimetry analysis of energy assimilation from EM waves and increase in the temperature during mobile phone usage within an elevator cabin. The cellphone operates at two different frequencies (1000 MHz and 1800 MHz) and is simulated at three different talk positions vertical, tilt, and cheek. Realistic numerical models of a woman in the third trimester of pregnancy and a girl at the age of 5 years are employed. The analysis highlights the necessity of a comprehensive approach to fully grasp the complexities of EM exposure. Full article

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17 pages, 1587 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Study on the Synergistic Effect and Mechanism of Octenyl Succinic Anhydride-Modified Starch on the Stability of Myofibrillar Protein Emulsion

by Peipei Yin, Xiaozhong Bi, Yuyu Xu, Tianhao Zhu, Qing Yin, Qingling Wang and Mangang Wu

Chemistry 2025, 7(4), 113; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemistry7040113 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The effects of octenyl succinic anhydride-modified hydrophobic starch (OSA starch) on the properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) emulsions were investigated. The results show that the stability of protein emulsions was significantly enhanced with the addition of OSA starch (0.25–1.0%), with the most pronounced [...] Read more.

The effects of octenyl succinic anhydride-modified hydrophobic starch (OSA starch) on the properties of myofibrillar protein (MP) emulsions were investigated. The results show that the stability of protein emulsions was significantly enhanced with the addition of OSA starch (0.25–1.0%), with the most pronounced effect observed at a 1% concentration. Concomitantly, increasing OSA starch concentrations led to a reduction in the fat globule size. Electrostatic interactions between anionic groups in the modified starch and myofibrillar proteins were observed, which effectively decreased the zeta potential of the emulsion to a minimum of −52.3 mV. However, in the composite emulsion system, a competitive relationship between OSA starch and myofibrillar proteins was evident, as reflected by the decrease in interfacial protein content from 1.16 mg/mL in the control (CK) group to 0.78 mg/mL in the OSA starch-treated group. Despite this competition, the overall emulsion stability was improved due to the synergistic effects of the modified starch and proteins. These findings suggest that OSA-modified starch holds promise as a stabilizer for enhancing the stability of myofibrillar protein emulsions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Food Science)

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20 pages, 3707 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Genome-Wide CRISPR-Cas9 Knockout Screening Identifies NUDCD2 Depletion as Sensitizer for Bortezomib, Carfilzomib and Ixazomib in Multiple Myeloma

by Sophie Vlayen, Tim Dierckx, Marino Caruso, Swell Sieben, Kim De Keersmaecker, Dirk Daelemans and Michel Delforge

Hemato 2025, 6(3), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/hemato6030021 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) remains a challenge, as almost all patients will eventually relapse. Proteasome inhibitors are a cornerstone in the management of MM. Unfortunately, validated biomarkers predicting drug response are largely missing. Therefore, we aimed to identify genes associated [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: The treatment of multiple myeloma (MM) remains a challenge, as almost all patients will eventually relapse. Proteasome inhibitors are a cornerstone in the management of MM. Unfortunately, validated biomarkers predicting drug response are largely missing. Therefore, we aimed to identify genes associated with drug resistance or sensitization to proteasome inhibitors. Methods: We performed genome-wide CRISPR-Cas9 knockout (KO) screens in human KMS-28-BM myeloma cells to identify genetic determinants associated with resistance or sensitization to proteasome inhibitors. Results: We show that KO of KLF13 and PSMC4 induces drug resistance, while NUDCD2, OSER1 and HERC1 KO cause drug sensitization. Subsequently, we focused on top sensitization hit, NUDCD2, which acts as a co-chaperone of Hsp90 to regulate the LIS1/dynein complex. RNA sequencing showed downregulation of genes involved in the ERAD pathway and in ER-associated ubiquitin-dependent protein catabolic processes in both untreated and carfilzomib-treated NUDCD2 KO cells, suggesting that NUDCD2 depletion alters protein degradation. Furthermore, bortezomib-treated NUDCD2 KO cells showed a decreased expression of genes that have a function in oxidative phosphorylation and the mitochondrial membrane, such as Carnitine Palmitoyltransferase 1A (CPT1A). CPT1A catalyzes the uptake of long chain fatty acids into mitochondria. Mitochondrial lipid metabolism has recently been reported as a possible therapeutic target for MM drug sensitivity. Conclusions: These results contribute to the search for therapeutic targets that can sensitize MM patients to proteasome inhibitors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Plasma Cell Disorders)

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18 pages, 615 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patient and Family-Centered Care to Promote Inpatient Safety: An Exploration of Nursing Care and Management Processes

by Tânia Correia, Maria Manuela Martins, Fernando Barroso, Lara Pinho, João Longo and Olga Valentim

Nurs. Rep. 2025, 15(7), 260; https://doi.org/10.3390/nursrep15070260 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Family involvement in promoting patient safety is a strategy that is increasingly recognized. Nurses have a major role to play here. This study aims to know the family care process developed by nurses and explore the logistic process identified as support for the [...] Read more.

Family involvement in promoting patient safety is a strategy that is increasingly recognized. Nurses have a major role to play here. This study aims to know the family care process developed by nurses and explore the logistic process identified as support for the development of family care in ensuring patient safety in the hospital. Methods: An interpretative qualitative study was conducted through semi-structured interviews with 10 nurses selected by convenience. Content analysis was performed using Atlas.ti 9.1.7 software and Bardin’s methodology. Results: Two large families were identified according to the nature of the strategies mentioned by the participant/s: assistance process and logistic process, 5 categories and 23 subcategories. Care process categories: initial assessment, planning, and implementation. Categories of the logistic process: material and human resources and organization. Conclusions: To implement patient and family-centered care to ensure patient safety, it is necessary to adjust the care and logistic process. At the care level, the importance of the nursing process in the organization of care is evident. At the logistical level, organizational initiatives are needed to stimulate and support this philosophy of care and to intervene at the level of human and material resources. Full article

24 pages, 2667 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transformer-Driven Fault Detection in Self-Healing Networks: A Novel Attention-Based Framework for Adaptive Network Recovery

by Parul Dubey, Pushkar Dubey and Pitshou N. Bokoro

Mach. Learn. Knowl. Extr. 2025, 7(3), 67; https://doi.org/10.3390/make7030067 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Fault detection and remaining useful life (RUL) prediction are critical tasks in self-healing network (SHN) environments and industrial cyber–physical systems. These domains demand intelligent systems capable of handling dynamic, high-dimensional sensor data. However, existing optimization-based approaches often struggle with imbalanced datasets, noisy signals, [...] Read more.

Fault detection and remaining useful life (RUL) prediction are critical tasks in self-healing network (SHN) environments and industrial cyber–physical systems. These domains demand intelligent systems capable of handling dynamic, high-dimensional sensor data. However, existing optimization-based approaches often struggle with imbalanced datasets, noisy signals, and delayed convergence, limiting their effectiveness in real-time applications. This study utilizes two benchmark datasets—EFCD and SFDD—which represent electrical and sensor fault scenarios, respectively. These datasets pose challenges due to class imbalance and complex temporal dependencies. To address this, we propose a novel hybrid framework combining Attention-Augmented Convolutional Neural Networks (AACNN) with transformer encoders, enhanced through Enhanced Ensemble-SMOTE for balancing the minority class. The model captures spatial features and long-range temporal patterns and learns effectively from imbalanced data streams. The novelty lies in the integration of attention mechanisms and adaptive oversampling in a unified fault-prediction architecture. Model evaluation is based on multiple performance metrics, including accuracy, F1-score, MCC, RMSE, and score*. The results show that the proposed model outperforms state-of-the-art approaches, achieving up to 97.14% accuracy and a score* of 0.419, with faster convergence and improved generalization across both datasets. Full article

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22 pages, 1282 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Two-Stage Optimization Framework for UAV Fleet Sizing and Task Allocation in Emergency Logistics Using the GWO and CBBA

by Yongchao Zhang, Wei Xu, Helin Ye and Zhuoyong Shi

Drones 2025, 9(7), 501; https://doi.org/10.3390/drones9070501 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

The joint optimization of fleet size and task allocation presents a critical challenge in deploying Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for time-sensitive missions such as emergency logistics. Conventional approaches often rely on pre-determined fleet sizes or computationally intensive centralized optimizers, which can lead to [...] Read more.

The joint optimization of fleet size and task allocation presents a critical challenge in deploying Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) for time-sensitive missions such as emergency logistics. Conventional approaches often rely on pre-determined fleet sizes or computationally intensive centralized optimizers, which can lead to suboptimal performance. To address this gap, this paper proposes a novel two-stage hierarchical framework that integrates the Grey Wolf Optimizer (GWO) with the Consensus-Based Bundle Algorithm (CBBA). At the strategic level, the GWO determines the optimal number of UAVs by minimizing a comprehensive cost function that balances mission efficiency and operational costs. Subsequently, at the tactical level, the CBBA performs decentralized, real-time task allocation for the optimally sized fleet. We validated our GWO-CBBA framework through extensive simulations against three benchmarks: a standard CBBA with a fixed fleet, a centralized Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) approach, and a Greedy Heuristic algorithm. The results are compelling: our framework demonstrates superior performance across all key metrics, reducing the overall scheduling cost by 13.2–36.5%, minimizing UAV mileage cost and significantly decreasing total task waiting time. This work provides a robust and efficient solution that effectively balances operational costs with service quality for dynamic multi-UAV scheduling problems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Autonomous Mobility Toward Low-Altitude Economy and Three-Dimensional Transportation Systems)

17 pages, 982 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Satellite and Statistical Approach for the Characterization of Coastal Storms Causing Damage on the Dakar Coast, Capital of Senegal (West Africa)

by Cheikh Omar Tidjani Cisse

Coasts 2025, 5(3), 24; https://doi.org/10.3390/coasts5030024 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Today, coastal storms represent one of the most formidable environmental challenges, causing significant impacts on coastal communities. This situation underscores both the importance and urgency of studying storms and their characterization. This study proposes an innovative approach combining Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and [...] Read more.

Today, coastal storms represent one of the most formidable environmental challenges, causing significant impacts on coastal communities. This situation underscores both the importance and urgency of studying storms and their characterization. This study proposes an innovative approach combining Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and machine learning (Classification and Regression Trees, CART) to characterize and distinguish damaging storms from non-damaging ones along the coast of Dakar, Senegal. The analysis revealed that among several hydrometeorological variables studied (wave height, period, direction, runup, wave energy, sea level anomaly, tide, etc.), the variables SLA and tide play a central role in the occurrence of damage, although they are weakly correlated with the others. By cross-analyzing these variables, critical thresholds were established, such as Tide > 0.53 m combined with SLA ≥ 0.061 m, Tide > 0.53 m and ECWL ≥ 1.3 m, as well as Runup ≤ 0.64 m associated with a high wave period (Tp), allowing accurate differentiation of potentially damaging storms. The CART method validated these results and identified three key combinations: (1) Tide–SLA, where no damage is observed if Tide < 0.53 m, and damage occurs beyond this threshold when SLA ≥ 0.061 m; (2) Tide–ECWL, where storms are damaging if Tide > 0.53 m and ECWL ≥ 1.3 m; (3) Runup–Tp, where storms are damaging if Runup ≤ 0.64 m or if Runup > 0.82 m with Tp ≥ 16 s. These results constitute the first application of machine learning for storm classification on the Senegalese coast, providing a novel quantitative foundation for better understanding the hydrodynamic conditions associated with damaging storms. The findings of this study could be valuable for risk management and the development of early warning systems Full article

20 pages, 706 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Forecasting Youth Unemployment Through Educational and Demographic Indicators: A Panel Time-Series Approach

by Arsen Tleppayev and Saule Zeinolla

Forecasting 2025, 7(3), 37; https://doi.org/10.3390/forecast7030037 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue in many emerging economies, where educational disparities and demographic pressures interact in complex ways. This study investigates the links between higher-education enrolment, demographic structure and youth unemployment in eight developing countries from 2009 to 2023. Panel cointegration [...] Read more.

Youth unemployment remains a pressing issue in many emerging economies, where educational disparities and demographic pressures interact in complex ways. This study investigates the links between higher-education enrolment, demographic structure and youth unemployment in eight developing countries from 2009 to 2023. Panel cointegration techniques—Fully Modified Ordinary Least Squares (FMOLS) and Dynamic Ordinary Least Squares (DOLS)—are applied to estimate the long-run effects of gross tertiary-school enrolment on youth unemployment while controlling for GDP growth and youth-cohort size. Robustness is confirmed through complementary estimations with pooled-mean-group ARDL and system-GMM panels, which deliver consistent coefficient signs and significance levels. Results show a significant negative elasticity between enrolment and youth unemployment, indicating that wider access to higher education helps lower joblessness among young people. Youth-population growth exerts an opposite, positive effect, while GDP growth reduces unemployment but less uniformly across regions. The evidence points to an integrated policy mix—expanding tertiary (especially vocational and technical) education, managing demographic pressure and maintaining macro-economic stability—to improve youth-employment outcomes in emerging economies. Full article

13 pages, 217 KiB

Open AccessArticle

“To Live or Not to Live”: The Silent Voices of Adolescents with Disabilities in Ghana

by Florence Naab, Mary A. Asirifi, Charles Ampong Adjei, Josephine M. Kyei, William Menkah, Hellen Gateri, Emilene Riesdorfer, Reyna Parikh and Elizabeth Burgess-Pinto

Disabilities 2025, 5(3), 64; https://doi.org/10.3390/disabilities5030064 (registering DOI) - 16 Jul 2025

Abstract

About 8% of Ghanaians, including adolescents, have various types of disabilities. Although many legal and constitutional protections for people with disabilities, including adolescents, exist in Ghana, it is widely known that these persons face a variety of psychosocial issues. Several factors have been [...] Read more.

About 8% of Ghanaians, including adolescents, have various types of disabilities. Although many legal and constitutional protections for people with disabilities, including adolescents, exist in Ghana, it is widely known that these persons face a variety of psychosocial issues. Several factors have been identified as contributing to the unremitting marginalisation of people with disabilities in general, but the extent to which these can be generalised to adolescents with disabilities is unknown. This study, therefore, sought to document the determinants, manifestations, and consequences of disability-related stigma among differently abled adolescents in three special schools in northern, middle, and southern Ghana. An exploratory descriptive qualitative design was used. Overall, 54 participants were purposively selected for a semi-structured interview and focus group discussions. Braun and Clarke’s procedure for thematic analysis was followed. The findings showed a variety of stigmatising experiences by adolescents with disabilities in their sociocultural context. More broadly, the cause of disability was linked to the ramifications of parental sins against the gods, being a descendant of river gods, and the consequences of bewitchment/curses by family members. Others included the perceived transmissibility of the disability and disability as a visible condition. Stigma manifested in the form of pejorative labelling, ableism, and social exclusion. The consequences of this stigma included negative psychological and emotional effects (i.e., depression, low self-esteem, and a lack of confidence) and suicidal ideation. There is an urgent need for stigma reduction interventions for adolescents with disabilities in Ghana as part of an effort to improve their wellbeing. Full article

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