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Object detection in complex environments, such as challenging lighting conditions, adverse weather, and target occlusions, poses significant difficulties for existing algorithms. To address these challenges, this study introduces a collaborative solution integrating improved CycleGAN-based data augmentation and an enhanced object detection framework, AS-YOLO. The improved CycleGAN incorporates a dual self-attention mechanism and spectral normalization to enhance feature capture and training stability. The AS-YOLO framework integrates a channel–spatial parallel attention mechanism, an AFPN structure for improved feature fusion, and the Inner_IoU loss function for better generalization. The experimental results show that compared with YOLOv8n, mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.95 of the AS-YOLO algorithm have increased by 1.5% and 0.6%, respectively. After data augmentation and style transfer, mAP@0.5 and mAP@0.95 have increased by 14.6% and 17.8%, respectively, demonstrating the effectiveness of the proposed method in improving the performance of the model in complex scenarios. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Machine Learning for Computer Vision Applications)

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21 pages, 3723 KB

Open AccessArticle

Computational Insights into the Molecular Mechanisms of Coptis chinensis Franch. in Treating Chronic Atrophic Gastritis: An Integrated Network Pharmacology, Machine Learning, and Molecular Dynamics Study

by Chengxiang Hu, Yang Liu, Yiyao Ding, Yue Jin and Weiwei Han

Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(24), 11998; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms262411998 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is a precancerous gastric condition with limited therapeutic interventions, and the mechanisms underlying the benefits of Coptis chinensis Franch. (CCF) remain insufficiently defined. This study employed an integrated computational strategy to clarify the molecular basis of CCF activity against CAG. Network pharmacology was used to identify potential targets of the major CCF constituents berberine, coptisine, and palmatine, followed by molecular docking, machine learning-based IC₅₀ prediction, and molecular dynamics simulations. Fifty-eight overlapping targets between CCF compounds and CAG-related genes were identified, highlighting SRC, STAT3, MAPK1, and NFKB1 as central nodes enriched in inflammatory and immune pathways, including TNF and MAPK signaling. Docking analyses revealed strong interactions between all three compounds and SRC kinase, and machine learning models predicted IC₅₀ values in the low micromolar range (1.38–1.82 μM). Molecular dynamics simulations further suggest that berberine may stabilize the crucial regulatory regions of SRC, specifically the activation loop. It is hypothesized that this stabilization maintains the inactive conformation of the kinase domain and potentially shields Tyr416 from phosphorylation, thus potentially influencing kinase activation. These findings suggest that CCF may modulate key inflammatory and immune pathways implicated in CAG progression, with SRC emerging as a central node for further investigation. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Network Pharmacology: An Emerging Field in Drug Discovery (2nd Edition))

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14 pages, 3259 KB

Open AccessArticle

Therapeutic Effects of Argon Inhalation on Lung Ischemia–Reperfusion Injury in CLAWN Miniature Swine

by Takehiro Iwanaga, Masayoshi Okumi, Yuichi Ariyoshi, Kazuhiro Takeuchi, Akira Kondo, Mitsuhiro Sekijima, Yurika Ichinari, Akira Shimizu and Hisashi Sahara

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(24), 8821; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14248821 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Noble gases, such as argon, have been observed to exhibit cytoprotective effects. The non-anesthetic properties, abundance, and cost-effectiveness of argon suggest its clinical potential. While its efficacy in mitigating ischemia–reperfusion injury has been demonstrated in cellular and small animal models, data on its effects in large animals remain limited. This study evaluated the effects of argon inhalation on pulmonary ischemia–reperfusion injury in miniature swine with potential applications in transplantation. Methods: The left bronchial and pulmonary artery and veins were clamped for 90 min, and then the clamps were released to induce lung ischemia–reperfusion injury in 10 CLAWN miniature swine. The argon group (n = 5) inhaled a mixture of 30% oxygen and 70% argon for 360 min, whereas the control group (n = 5) inhaled a mixture of 30% oxygen and 70% nitrogen for an equivalent duration. Lung function was evaluated using chest X-ray, lung biopsies, and blood gas analysis. Results: The PaO₂/FiO₂ ratio significantly decreased in the control group 2 h post-reperfusion (568 ± 12 to 272 ± 39 mmHg), but was better preserved in the argon group (562 ± 17 to 430 ± 48 mmHg). Blood gas from the left pulmonary vein showed a superior PvO₂/FiO₂ ratio in the argon group (331 ± 40 vs. 186 ± 17 mmHg at 2 h; 519 ± 19 vs. 292 ± 33 mmHg at 2 days). Chest X-ray revealed reduced infiltration in the left lung. The lung biopsy histological scores improved in the argon group at 2 h and 2 days. Serum superoxide dismutase analysis and tissue TUNEL assays suggested that antioxidant and anti-apoptotic mechanisms, respectively, were involved. Conclusions: Perioperative argon inhalation attenuates ischemia–reperfusion injury in swine lungs, likely via anti-apoptotic and antioxidant effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue JSOPB 2025–2026 Congress Special Issue–Update on Organ Preservation and Transplantation)

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21 pages, 810 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Valuation of Assets as a Non-Monetary Contribution to a Water Management Company

by Eva Vítková, Jana Korytárová and Gabriela Kocourková

Sustainability 2025, 17(24), 11171; https://doi.org/10.3390/su172411171 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

A large number of state-owned companies were privatized in the Czech Republic after the end of the communist regime, mostly through their transformation into joint-stock companies. The water management sector was no exception from this process. The ownership of infrastructure networks was transferred to individual municipalities, which are legally obliged to provide their inhabitants with water supply and sewerage disposal. Subsequently, the municipalities joined together in joint-stock companies to enhance their capacity to provide sufficient financial resources for the rehabilitation and development of water infrastructure and also to enable the implementation of sustainable water management strategies, which are key to environmental protection. Assets contributed to joint-stock companies in the form of non-monetary contributions serve as a basis for a proportionate allocation of shares, representing the shareholder’s share of participation in the company’s management. An analysis of the asset performance within these companies indicates the necessity of developing an optimized methodology for determining the number of shares allocated for such non-monetary contributions. This need arises from significant disparities in both profitability and cost-efficiency among municipalities, depending on factors such as population size (revenues) and the length and technical characteristics of the infrastructure networks (costs) contributed to the joint-stock companies. The authors of the article present the research project results, aimed at developing a methodological procedure for determining the price (value) of municipal infrastructure assets contributed as non-monetary capital to a joint-stock company that owns and operates water management networks, from which the secondary objective of determining the fair value of a municipality’s water management infrastructure assets based on the developed methodology is derived. The proposed methodological procedure is primarily based on establishing the ratio between the fixed and variable costs of the municipality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sustainable Water Management)

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18 pages, 2203 KB

Open AccessArticle

The Effects of Inorganic Carbon and Irradiance on the Photosynthetic Performance and Growth of the Macroalga Sargassum horneri

by Jane Wungen-Sani, Han-Yang Yeh, Yi-Jung Chen, Fan-Hua Nan and Meng-Chou Lee

Water 2025, 17(24), 3528; https://doi.org/10.3390/w17243528 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Sargassum horneri is a highly productive macroalgal species capable of assimilating dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and converting CO₂ into carbohydrates, making it a promising solution for carbon capture and biomass enhancement. Owing to its wide distribution and natural abundance, the utilization of S. horneri may help mitigate rising oceanic CO₂ concentrations. This study evaluated the combined effects of inorganic carbon availability (2000, 4000, and 8000 μM NaHCO₃) and irradiance (100, 150, and 200 µmol photons m⁻² s⁻¹) on photosynthetic performance and growth across short-term (24 h) and long-term (4-week) experimental trials. Carbon enrichment and light intensity interacted to significantly influence growth and carbon assimilation. The highest growth rate (35.83 ± 3.95%) was observed under 8000 μM DIC (0.75 g L⁻¹) at 200 µmol photons m⁻² s⁻¹, corresponding to an optimal mean growth condition of 19 ± 0.04% (p < 0.05). These findings demonstrate that elevated inorganic carbon enhances photosynthetic efficiency by supplying sufficient substrate for carbon fixation, thereby supporting the feasibility of Sargassum horneri as a viable species for CO₂ absorption and carbon capture applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biodiversity and Functionality of Aquatic Ecosystems)

4 pages, 155 KB

Open AccessEditorial

Editorial for the Special Issue “Design and Application of Combined Catalysis”

by Feng Wang

Catalysts 2025, 15(12), 1167; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15121167 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

The global community is currently confronting the dual challenges of energy shortages and environmental degradation, underscoring an urgent need for green and sustainable technological solutions [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Design and Application of Combined Catalysis)

11 pages, 714 KB

Open AccessArticle

Urine Cytological Diagnostics: Possibilities and Limitations—A 25-Year Review and Overview at Hannover Medical School

by Soudah Bisharah, Mieke Raap and Mahmoud Abbas

Clin. Pract. 2025, 15(12), 234; https://doi.org/10.3390/clinpract15120234 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Urine cytology is a highly effective, straightforward, and cost-efficient diagnostic tool for identifying neoplastic and non-neoplastic changes in the bladder, ureter, and renal pelvis. The aim of this study is to demonstrate the high sensitivity and specificity of urine cytology in detecting a wide range of urothelial lesions, including metastatic involvement. Material and Methods: Urine cytology was performed on 9639 cases between 2000 and 2025. The samples, collected from patients, were processed at the Institute of Pathology. Cytological slides were prepared using cytocentrifugation and stained with May–Grünwald–Giemsa (MGG) and Papanicolaou stains. The cytological findings were classified according to WHO, 2004 compared with histological specimens. Additionally, selected cases underwent immunohistochemical and molecular analyses. All samples were anonymized and retrospectively analyzed following the guidelines and regulations of the local ethics committee. Results: Of the total cases, 7051 were classified as benign, 1269 as malignant, and 88 as normal findings. Insufficient material was obtained in 336 cases. No complications were reported during sample collection or processing. The concordance with histological findings for neoplastic lesions was over 96%, with a false-negative rate of 1.84%. The diagnostic methods demonstrated a sensitivity of 90.7% and a specificity of 96.64%. Among the 6956 cases analyzed, 3139 were women (45.13%) and 3817 were men (54.87%). Conclusions: The diagnostic value of urine cytology in representative material is relatively high in assessing both the presence or absence of malignancy and, when applicable, the tumor grade. This large 25-year single-center review demonstrates that urine cytology retains high sensitivity and specificity for the detection of urothelial malignancy, particularly high-grade disease. However, the atypical category remains a major diagnostic challenge and contributes substantially to false-positive results. Full article

19 pages, 697 KB

Open AccessReview

Glucose Metabolism Modulation as a Strategy to Enhance Cancer Radiotherapy

by Shuaining Gao, Xiaochang Liu, Shi Chen and Pingkun Zhou

Metabolites 2025, 15(12), 793; https://doi.org/10.3390/metabo15120793 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

A systematic literature review of the PubMed database, filtering for publication dates up to and including October 2025, was conducted to identify relevant studies on glucose metabolism and radiotherapy. Radioresistance poses a major therapeutic challenge, in which tumor-associated glucose metabolic reprogramming, characterized by the Warburg effect, supports cellular energy requirements and contributes to radioresistance by facilitating DNA repair and promoting survival pathways. Targeting pivotal glycolytic enzymes, such as hexokinase (HK) and pyruvate kinase M2 (PKM2), and integrating radiotherapy with metabolic modulators have been shown to improve radiosensitivity. Special emphasis is placed on how these interventions remodel the tumor microenvironment and modulate antitumor immunity—emerging factors that influence therapeutic efficacy. This review highlights mechanistic insights and potential therapeutic targets for the development of effective radiosensitization strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Endocrinology and Clinical Metabolic Research)

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21 pages, 1621 KB

Open AccessArticle

Millennia of Mitochondrial Change: Tracing Haplogroup Variation in Lithuania

by Ingrida Domarkienė, Indrė Krastinaitė, Justina Kozakaitė, Ingrida Kavaliauskienė, Henryk W. Witas, Vaidutis Kučinskas and Rimantas Jankauskas

Heritage 2025, 8(12), 531; https://doi.org/10.3390/heritage8120531 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: A comprehensive temporal analysis of mtDNA haplogroup variation across Lithuanian history remains limited. This study investigates the mtDNA variation landscape during the Iron Age by comparing newly reported Iron Age individual mtDNA data with the new data from present-day Lithuanians. Methods: Remains of individuals from the Iron Age Lithuania (n = 101) were processed using standard protocols for ancient DNA processing. For the present-day Lithuanians (n = 279), whole mitogenomes were sequenced. Thirty-six polymorphic sites within the Hypervariable Region I were used for haplogroup assignment, phylogenetic and population genetic analyses. Results: Fifteen distinct haplogroups in the Iron Age and the present-day Lithuanians were identified. Haplogroup R0/H remained the most frequent across time. Haplogroups U, T, and N were prominent in the Iron Age. Haplogroups M and D were introduced after the Iron Age. Phylogenetic and population genetic analyses revealed greater mtDNA diversity in the present-day Lithuanians. Significant difference in molecular variance was observed during the Iron Age. Barring the Viking period, the Iron Age mtDNA variation matched the present-day Lithuanian and European populations. Conclusions: Our study showed that mtDNA variation over time remained stable with some random fluctuations and gained more diversity in the present-day Lithuanians. Full article

14 pages, 671 KB

Open AccessArticle

Efficacy and Safety of a Plasma Vaginal Cleanser (WOMEN CARE^®) Using Plasma-Activated Water in Suspected Vaginitis: A Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial

by Hye-Jin Cho, Min-Kyeong Kim, Yun-Seo Choe, Seo-Yeon Son, Chi-Gu Kang, So-Jung Lim, Sooyong Kim, Hoonseong Choi, Un Suk Jung and Ju-Seop Kang

Biomedicines 2025, 13(12), 3076; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13123076 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Vaginitis is a prevalent inflammatory disorder of the vaginal mucosa, frequently arising from its anatomical proximity to the anorectal region and a microenvironment conducive to pathogen colonization and dysbiosis. This prospective, multicenter, randomized, third-party-blinded study assessed the efficacy and safety of a plasma vaginal cleanser (WOMEN CARE^®) employing plasma-activated water (PAW) as a non-pharmacological alternative to conventional antimicrobials for restoring vaginal homeostasis. Methods: Women aged ≥19 years with clinically suspected vaginitis were assigned to either the experimental group (WOMEN CARE^®) or the control group (standard pharmacotherapy). The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants exhibiting decreased Nugent scores between baseline and Visit 4. Results: Of 144 participants in the experimental group, 125 completed the study. The experimental group showed comparable outcomes to standard pharmacotherapy group across Nugent scores, vaginal pH, and symptoms severity, with pathogen suppression confirmed as non-inferior. Additionally, PAW exerted anti-HPV activity through a potential effect against new genotypic HPV infection. While the control group experienced antibiotic-associated adverse effects (e.g., headache, abdominal discomfort, nausea), no treatment-related adverse events occurred in the WOMEN CARE^® group. Conclusions: These results indicate that PAW vaginal cleansing provides an effective, safe, non-antibiotic approach for managing vaginitis and maintaining vaginal ecological balance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)

21 pages, 360 KB

Open AccessArticle

In Vitro and In Situ Evaluation of White Mulberry (Morus alba) Pomace and Leaf: Fermentation Kinetics, Digestibility, and Potential as Alternative Ruminant Feed Sources

by Zekeriya Safa İnanç and Huzur Derya Arik

Fermentation 2025, 11(12), 692; https://doi.org/10.3390/fermentation11120692 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Mulberry (Morus alba) by-products represent underutilized feed resources with potential for ruminant nutrition. This study evaluated the rumen fermentation kinetics and rumen digestibility of dried mulberry pomace (MP) and leaf (ML) to determine optimal inclusion strategies in dairy cattle diets. Mulberry pomace (MP) and mulberry leaf (ML) were sun-dried and incorporated at 50% substitution levels into total mixed rations (TMR) with varying concentrations (30%, 35%, 40%, 45%, and 50%) of neutral detergent fiber (NDF). This created ten treatment groups: 30NP through 50NP (pomace-supplemented, where the number represents basal TMR NDF%) and 30NL through 50NL (leaf-supplemented), plus control groups containing only MP or ML and five basal TMR controls (30N through 50N). Rumen fluid was collected from two non-lactating Holstein cows fitted with ruminal cannulas. Chemical analysis revealed that ML contained 19% crude protein and 27.4% NDF, while MP contained 14.9% crude protein and 35.8% NDF. The highest gas production was observed in the 45NP (43.20 mL) and 50NL (43.50 mL) groups. Results demonstrated that MP achieved optimal fermentation when combined with 40–45% NDF TMR (maximum total volatile fatty acid (VFA): 88.86 mmol/L in 40NP at 48 h), whereas ML performed best with 45% NDF TMR (45NL: 88.03 mmol/L total VFA), indicating these as the most promising treatment combinations for ruminant feeding systems pending in vivo validation. Acetate proportions were higher in ML groups (84–96%), while propionate ratios were elevated in MP groups. Both materials maintained optimal ruminal pH (6.2–6.8). In vitro NDF digestibility was significantly higher for ML, with differences increasing from 2.97% at 2 h to 16.44% at 240 h. In situ degradation of MP was nearly complete at 48 h, while ML reached maximum degradation at 24 h. These findings indicate the potential of MP and ML as valuable alternative feed sources for ruminants, particularly in TMRs containing 40–45% NDF. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ruminal Fermentation: 2nd Edition)

10 pages, 514 KB

Open AccessArticle

Mid- and Long-Term Results of Covered Stents for Iatrogenic Common Femoral Artery Injury

by Francesca Miceli, Giulia Demirxhiu, Alessia Di Girolamo, Antonio Marzano, Andrea Molinari, Rocco Cangiano, Marta Ascione, Francesco Ajmone, Gennaro Sardella, Massimo Mancone, Luca di Marzo and Wassim Mansour

Biomedicines 2025, 13(12), 3075; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13123075 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The increasing use of endovascular procedures with common femoral artery (CFA) access has led to a rise in iatrogenic arterial injuries at this site. The most frequent injuries are pseudoaneurysms (PSA), retrograde dissections (RD), arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), and arterial perforations. Surgical repair is the standard treatment; however, the use of covered stents (CS) may represent a valid alternative, despite current instructions for use (IFU) not recommending CFA implantation. Methods: We conducted a single-center retrospective study on a prospectively maintained database. Patients undergoing transcatheter aortic valve repair (TAVR), endovascular aortic repair EVAR, diagnostic or therapeutic coronary angiography, or peripheral percutaneous transluminal angioplasty, who were subsequently treated for CFA injury with CS implantation between February 2015 and May 2024, were included. Endpoints were technical success (complete arterial repair), 30-day mortality, overall mortality, reintervention rates, and long-term stent patency. Results: A total of 41 patients were included: 10 (24.4%) PSA, 3 (7.3%) AVF, 27 (65.8%) perforations, and 2 (4.9%) RD. Of which 28 (68.3%) were treated with self-expandable CS and 13 (31.7%) with balloon-expandable CS. Additionally, 33 (80.5%) underwent urgent treatment. Technical success was achieved in 97.5%. Thirty-day mortality was 7.3%, with no procedure-related deaths. At a mean follow-up of 50.8 months (range 1–109), survival was 63.4%, with 100% stent patency and no procedure-related reinterventions. Conclusions: CS implantation for CFA iatrogenic injuries achieved high technical success and excellent long-term patency, representing a viable alternative to open repair. Further studies are needed to integrate CS use for CFA injuries into treatment algorithms and to update device IFUs accordingly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Molecular and Translational Medicine)

16 pages, 390 KB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of Prothrombin G20210A and Factor V Leiden G1691A Variants in Patients with Acute Coronary Syndrome Presenting to the Emergency Department with Chest Pain

by Fulya Yukcu, Murtaza Kaya, Fatmagul Can and Harun Yildirim

Genes 2025, 16(12), 1490; https://doi.org/10.3390/genes16121490 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Acute coronary syndrome (ACS) is a major cardiovascular emergency influenced by environmental and genetic factors. Thrombophilic variants such as prothrombin G20210A (rs1799963) and factor V Leiden G1691A (rs6025) may influence thrombin generation and has been reported to show associations with coronary events. Methods: This case–control study included 100 ACS patients and 131 age and sex-matched healthy controls. Genotyping of rs1799963 and rs6025 was performed using polymerase chain reaction followed by restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) analysis. Results: The GG genotype was markedly more common among ACS patients for both variants. For rs1799963, carriers of the A allele (GA + AA) were less common in ACS (2.0%) than controls (9.2%; p = 0.039), corresponding to an 8.6-fold higher odds of ACS in GG carriers (OR = 8.624; 95% CI: 1.757–42.345; p = 0.008). For rs6025, A allele carriers (9.0%) were also reduced in ACS versus controls (18.3%; p = 0.049), and GG homozygotes exhibited a 2.6-fold higher risk (OR = 2.635; 95% CI: 1.104–6.290; p = 0.029). Age was independently associated with higher ACS risk (OR = 1.047; 95% CI: 1.029–1.066; p < 0.001). Conclusions: Our findings indicate that the rs1799963 and rs6025 variants were independently associated with ACS, together with advancing age. Both the GG genotype and older age were associated with higher odds of ACS, whereas A-allele carriers appeared less common among ACS cases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Human Genomics and Genetic Diseases)

22 pages, 5419 KB

Open AccessArticle

Substituting Fossil-Based into Bio-Based Isocyanates for Resin and Dispersion Polyurethane Coatings: Evaluation of Thermal, Mechanical, and Chemical Performance

by Pieter Samyn and Patrick Cosemans

Polymers 2025, 17(24), 3301; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17243301 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study investigates the substitution of fossil-based isocyanates with bio-based alternatives in polyurethane resin (PU) coatings and polyurethane dispersion (PUD) coatings, focusing on mechanical and thermal performance. The coatings were formulated using bio-based pentamethylene diisocyanate (PDI) and a range of fossil-based hexamethylene diisocyanate (HDI) trimers, combined with either a polyester polyol or a polyacrylate polyol. Differential-scanning calorimetry analysis revealed that PDI-based coatings exhibit higher reactivity during crosslinking, resulting in higher glass transition temperatures. Thermogravimetric analysis showed lower thermal stability compared to HDI-based polyurethanes, indicating increased rigidity but reduced thermal resilience. Mechanical testing of the coatings on wood showed superior microhardness, scratch resistance, and wear resistance for PDI-based coatings, particularly when combined with polyester polyols. Microscopic surface evaluation and roughness analysis confirmed smoother morphologies and lower crack densities in PDI-polyester coatings. Gloss and water contact angle measurements further demonstrated improved surface uniformity and hydrophobicity for PDI-based coatings. The FTIR spectroscopy validated the chemical integrity and more intense hydrogen bonding for PDI-based coatings. The post-wear spectra indicated chemical oxidation and surface rearrangements in PDI-based systems and mechanical degradation with chain scission for HDI-based coatings. Overall, the study highlights that bio-based PDI trimers can effectively replace fossil-based HDI trimers in PU and PUD coatings without compromising mechanical performance, especially when paired with polyester polyols. These findings support the development of more sustainable polyurethane coatings with enhanced durability and environmental compatibility. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Development of Polymer Materials as Functional Coatings: 2nd Edition)

19 pages, 3276 KB

Open AccessArticle

Brain Activation Features in Response to the Expectation of Receiving Rewards Through Aggression

by Jia-Ming Wei, Xiaoyun Zhao and Ling-Xiang Xia

Brain Sci. 2025, 15(12), 1326; https://doi.org/10.3390/brainsci15121326 (registering DOI) - 12 Dec 2025

Abstract

Background: Reward expectation is an important motivation for aggression. However, despite substantial progress in behavioral studies related to reward expectation in aggression, the neural basis underlying this process remains unclear. Methods: To investigate the brain correlates of aggressive reward expectation, we developed the Harm–Gain Task (HGT). In this task, participants were informed that they could gain money by causing harm to another person and were instructed to evaluate their satisfaction with the anticipated monetary reward. Additionally, we designed a questionnaire to measure participants’ moral disengagement concerning aggressive decision-making in the HGT. Thirty-four healthy Chinese university students completed the HGT while in the scanner, and their functional images were acquired using a 3.0-T Siemens Tim Trio scanner. Data from two participants were excluded from the analysis due to excessive head motion. Finally, data from 32 participants (15 males, M_age = 19.97 years, SD_age = 2.07 years) were included in the analyses. Results: Findings show that during the reward expectation phase of the HGT, (1) relative to the baseline condition, the orbitofrontal cortex (OFC), anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), and middle cingulate cortex (MCC) were significantly activated. Conversely, activation in the bilateral dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), bilateral inferior parietal lobule (IPL), and bilateral lateral temporal cortex (LTC) was attenuated. (2) As the monetary amount raised, activation in the OFC and ACC significantly increased, while activation in the DLPFC, IPL, and LTC significantly decreased. (3) As the monetary amount raised, the heightened activation in the OFC and ACC was significantly correlated with participants’ aggressive behavior and moral disengagement scores. Conclusions: The results provide preliminary evidence regarding neural correlates in aggressive reward expectation, promoting further exploration of the cognitive neural mechanisms underlying aggression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Neural Mechanisms Underlying Social Cognition and Emotional Processing)

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