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34 pages, 557 KiB  
Review
Future Pharmacotherapy for Bipolar Disorders: Emerging Trends and Personalized Approaches
by Giuseppe Marano, Francesco Maria Lisci, Gianluca Boggio, Ester Maria Marzo, Francesca Abate, Greta Sfratta, Gianandrea Traversi, Osvaldo Mazza, Roberto Pola, Gabriele Sani, Eleonora Gaetani and Marianna Mazza
Future Pharmacol. 2025, 5(3), 42; https://doi.org/10.3390/futurepharmacol5030042 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic and disabling psychiatric condition characterized by recurring episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. Despite the availability of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, long-term management remains challenging due to incomplete symptom control, adverse effects, and high relapse [...] Read more.
Background: Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic and disabling psychiatric condition characterized by recurring episodes of mania, hypomania, and depression. Despite the availability of mood stabilizers, antipsychotics, and antidepressants, long-term management remains challenging due to incomplete symptom control, adverse effects, and high relapse rates. Methods: This paper is a narrative review aimed at synthesizing emerging trends and future directions in the pharmacological treatment of BD. Results: Future pharmacotherapy for BD is likely to shift toward precision medicine, leveraging advances in genetics, biomarkers, and neuroimaging to guide personalized treatment strategies. Novel drug development will also target previously underexplored mechanisms, such as inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, circadian rhythm disturbances, and glutamatergic dysregulation. Physiological endophenotypes, such as immune-metabolic profiles, circadian rhythms, and stress reactivity, are emerging as promising translational tools for tailoring treatment and reducing associated somatic comorbidity and mortality. Recognition of the heterogeneous longitudinal trajectories of BD, including chronic mixed states, long depressive episodes, or intermittent manic phases, has underscored the value of clinical staging models to inform both pharmacological strategies and biomarker research. Disrupted circadian rhythms and associated chronotypes further support the development of individualized chronotherapeutic interventions. Emerging chronotherapeutic approaches based on individual biological rhythms, along with innovative monitoring strategies such as saliva-based lithium sensors, are reshaping the future landscape. Anti-inflammatory agents, neurosteroids, and compounds modulating oxidative stress are emerging as promising candidates. Additionally, medications targeting specific biological pathways implicated in bipolar pathophysiology, such as N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) receptor modulators, phosphodiesterase inhibitors, and neuropeptides, are under investigation. Conclusions: Advances in pharmacogenomics will enable clinicians to predict individual responses and tolerability, minimizing trial-and-error prescribing. The future landscape may also incorporate digital therapeutics, combining pharmacotherapy with remote monitoring and data-driven adjustments. Ultimately, integrating innovative drug therapies with personalized approaches has the potential to enhance efficacy, reduce adverse effects, and improve long-term outcomes for individuals with bipolar disorder, ushering in a new era of precision psychiatry. Full article
28 pages, 1287 KiB  
Article
Ferrocene-Catalyzed Aromatization and Competitive Oxidative Ring Transformations of 1,2-Dihydro-1-Arylpyridazino[4,5-d]Pyridazines
by Dániel Hutai, Tibor Zs. Nagy, Veronika Emődi and Antal Csámpai
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 742; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080742 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper presents the expected and unexpected, but typically substituent-dependent, ferrocene-catalyzed DDQ-mediated oxidative transformations of a series of 5,8-bis(methylthio)-1-aryl-1,2-dihydropyridazino[4,5-d]pyridazines and 8-(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-5-(methylthio)-1-aryl-1,2-dihydropyridazino[4,5-d]pyridazines. Under noncatalytic conditions the reactions were sluggish, mainly producing a substantial amount of undefined [...] Read more.
This paper presents the expected and unexpected, but typically substituent-dependent, ferrocene-catalyzed DDQ-mediated oxidative transformations of a series of 5,8-bis(methylthio)-1-aryl-1,2-dihydropyridazino[4,5-d]pyridazines and 8-(3,5-dimethyl-1H-pyrazol-1-yl)-5-(methylthio)-1-aryl-1,2-dihydropyridazino[4,5-d]pyridazines. Under noncatalytic conditions the reactions were sluggish, mainly producing a substantial amount of undefined tarry materials; nevertheless, the ferrocene-catalyzed reactions of the 5,8-bis(methylthio)-substituted precursors gave the aromatic products the expected aromatic products in low yields. Their formation was accompanied by ring transformations proceeding via aryne-generating fragmentation/Diels–Alder (DA)/N2-releasing retro Diels–Alder (rDA) sequence to construct arene-fused phthalazines. On the other hand, neither the noncatalytic nor the catalytic reactions of the 8-pyrazolyl-5-methylthio-substituted dihydroaromatics yielded the expected aromatic products. Instead, depending on their substitution pattern, the catalytic reactions of these pyrazolyl-substituted precursors also led to the formation of dearylated arene-fused phthalazines competing with an unprecedented multistep fragmentation sequence terminated by the hydrolysis of cationic intermediates to give 4-(methylthio)pyridazino[4,5-d]pyridazin-1(2H)-one and the corresponding 3,5-dimethyl-1-aryl-1H-pyrazole. When 0.6 equivalents of DDQ were applied in freshly absolutized THF, a representative pyrazolyl-substituted model underwent an oxidative coupling to give a dimer formed by the interaction of the cationic intermediate, and a part of the N-nucleophilic precursor remained intact. A systematic computational study was conducted on these intriguing reactions to support their complex mechanisms proposed on the basis of the structures of the isolated products. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Catalysis in Heterocyclic and Organometallic Synthesis, 3rd Edition)
48 pages, 7283 KiB  
Article
Enhancing Landscape Architecture Construction Learning with Extended Reality (XR): Comparing Interactive Virtual Reality (VR) with Traditional Learning Methods
by S. Y. Andalib, Muntazar Monsur, Cade Cook, Mike Lemon, Phillip Zawarus and Leehu Loon
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 992; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15080992 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The application of extended reality (XR) in design education has grown substantially; however, empirical evidence on its educational benefits remains limited. This two-year study examines the impact of incorporating a virtual reality (VR) learning module into undergraduate landscape architecture (LA) construction courses, focusing [...] Read more.
The application of extended reality (XR) in design education has grown substantially; however, empirical evidence on its educational benefits remains limited. This two-year study examines the impact of incorporating a virtual reality (VR) learning module into undergraduate landscape architecture (LA) construction courses, focusing on brick masonry instruction. A conventional learning sequence—lecture, sketching, CAD, and 3D modeling—was supplemented with an immersive VR experience developed using Unreal Engine 5 and deployed on Meta Quest devices. In Year 1, we piloted a preliminary version of the module with landscape architecture students (n = 15), and data on implementation feasibility and student perception were collected. In Year 2, we refined the learning module and implemented it with a new cohort (n = 16) using standardized VR evaluation metrics, knowledge retention tests, and self-efficacy surveys. The findings suggest that when sequenced after a theoretical introduction, VR serves as a pedagogical bridge between abstract construction principles and physical implementation. Moreover, the VR module enhanced student engagement and self-efficacy by offering experiential learning with immediate feedback. The findings highlight the need for intentional design, institutional support, and the continued development of tactile, collaborative simulations. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Beyond Classroom Walls: Exploring Virtual Learning Environments)
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12 pages, 521 KiB  
Article
Examination of the Relationship Between Pain Intensity, Pain Perceptions, and Kinesiophobia in Patients with Non-Specific Chronic Musculoskeletal Pain
by Sofia Sgourda, Maria Loulla, Eirini Zisiopoulou, Krystalia Katsiou, Sofia Nikolaidi, Ioannis Kyrosis and Anna Christakou
Muscles 2025, 4(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/muscles4030027 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Chronic musculoskeletal pain negatively affects patients’ quality of life, and pain perceptions may significantly influence rehabilitation outcomes. This study investigated the relationships among pain intensity, pain perceptions, and kinesiophobia in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain. No previous studies have examined these variables in [...] Read more.
Chronic musculoskeletal pain negatively affects patients’ quality of life, and pain perceptions may significantly influence rehabilitation outcomes. This study investigated the relationships among pain intensity, pain perceptions, and kinesiophobia in individuals with chronic musculoskeletal pain. No previous studies have examined these variables in combination. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted with 37 participants with non-specific chronic musculoskeletal pain for at least 6 months, affecting the neck (n = 8), lower back (n = 18), upper limbs (n = 5), lower limbs (n = 5), or shoulder (n = 1). The following validated tools were used: (a) Pain Beliefs and Perceptions Inventory (PBPI), (b) the Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (TSK), and (c) the Short-Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ). Spearman r correlation analyses were performed. Total kinesiophobia scores were positively correlated with (a) total pain intensity (McGill score) (r = 0.37, p = 0.022), (b) present pain intensity (PPI) (r = 0.52, p = 0.001), (c) pain duration (r = 0.51, p = 0.001), (d) the “mystery” factor of pain perception (r = 0.41, p = 0.013), and (e) the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) (r = 0.42, p = 0.009). The total pain perception scores were positively associated with the “fear of injury” factor of kinesiophobia (r = 0.36, p = 0.028). The McGill pain scores were strongly correlated with both PPI (r = 0.63, p = 0.001) and VAS (r = 0.51, p = 0.001). There is a significant relationship between pain perception and kinesiophobia levels in patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain. Limitations of the study include a small and heterogeneous sample regarding pain localization. Further research is required using larger, more homogeneous populations to confirm the present findings. Full article
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13 pages, 1191 KiB  
Article
Linking Heart Function to Prognosis: The Role of a Novel Echocardiographic Index and NT-proBNP in Acute Heart Failure
by Dan-Cristian Popescu, Mara Ciobanu, Diana Țînț and Alexandru-Cristian Nechita
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1412; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081412 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Risk stratification in acute heart failure (AHF) remains challenging, particularly in settings where biomarker availability is limited. Echocardiography offers valuable hemodynamic insights, but no single parameter fully captures the complexity of biventricular dysfunction and pressure overload. This study aimed to [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Risk stratification in acute heart failure (AHF) remains challenging, particularly in settings where biomarker availability is limited. Echocardiography offers valuable hemodynamic insights, but no single parameter fully captures the complexity of biventricular dysfunction and pressure overload. This study aimed to evaluate a novel echocardiographic index (ViRTUE IndexVTI-RVRA-TAPSE Unified Evaluation) integrating a peak systolic gradient between the right ventricle and right atrium (RV-RA gradient), tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion (TAPSE), the velocity–time integral in the left ventricular outflow tract (VTI LVOT), NT-proBNP (N-terminal pro–B-type Natriuretic Peptide) levels, and in-hospital mortality among patients with AHF. Materials and Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 123 patients admitted with AHF. Echocardiographic evaluation at admission included TAPSE, VTI LVOT, and the RV-RA gradient. An index was calculated as RVRA gradient TAPSE x VTI LVOT. NT-proBNP levels and in-hospital outcomes were recorded. Statistical analysis included correlation, logistic regression, and ROC curve evaluation. Results: The proposed index showed a significant positive correlation with NT-proBNP values (r = 0.543, p < 0.0001) and good discriminative ability for elevated NT-proBNP (AUC = 0.79). It also correlated with in-hospital mortality (r = 0.193, p = 0.032) and showed moderate prognostic performance (AUC = 0.68). Higher index values were associated with greater mortality risk. Conclusions: This novel index, based on standard echocardiographic measurements, reflects both systolic dysfunction and pressure overload in AHF. Its correlation with NT-proBNP and in-hospital mortality highlights its potential as a practical, accessible bedside tool for early risk stratification, particularly when biomarker testing is unavailable or delayed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Updates on Prevention of Acute Heart Failure)
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17 pages, 705 KiB  
Article
Factors Associated with Vitamin D Testing: A Population-Based Cohort Study in Queensland, Australia
by Vu Tran, Donald S. A. McLeod, Catherine M. Olsen, Nirmala Pandeya, Mary Waterhouse, David C. Whiteman and Rachel E. Neale
Nutrients 2025, 17(15), 2549; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17152549 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Vitamin D testing has increased significantly in developed countries in recent decades. We aimed to describe trends in vitamin D testing rates and factors associated with testing and vitamin D deficiency in Queensland, Australia (2011–2019). Methods: We used data from [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Vitamin D testing has increased significantly in developed countries in recent decades. We aimed to describe trends in vitamin D testing rates and factors associated with testing and vitamin D deficiency in Queensland, Australia (2011–2019). Methods: We used data from the QSkin Sun and Health Study (n = 40,417), a prospective population-based cohort study with linkage to the Medicare Benefits Schedule, Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme, and pathology laboratories. Main outcomes included age-standardized incidence rate of vitamin D testing; having ≥1 vitamin D test during follow-up; vitamin D deficiency (25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration <50 nmol/L) in the first vitamin D test; and repeat vitamin D tests. Results: The age-standardized incidence rate of testing increased by 2% per quarter during follow-up. Of the 35,250 participants analyzed for associations with testing (median age of 57 years, 52% female), 45% had ≥1 vitamin D test. Among those tested, 56% had no apparent clinical indication for their initial vitamin D test, 21% were vitamin D deficient in their initial test, and 58% had a repeat test. Repeat testing occurred in 56% who were not deficient in their prior test, while only two-thirds of those deficient received a follow-up assessment. Participants who visited a general practitioner ≥2 times in the year prior to follow-up were 60% more likely to have ≥1 vitamin D test compared with those with no visit, but general practitioner (GP) visits were not associated with risk of vitamin D deficiency. Conclusions: These results suggest that initiatives are needed to help clinicians target vitamin D testing in alignment with clinical guidelines. Full article
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24 pages, 6246 KiB  
Article
Anti-Herpes Simplex Virus Type 1 Activity of Rosa damascena Mill Essential Oil and Floral Water in Retinal Infection In Vitro and In Silico
by Neli Vilhelmova-Ilieva, Rayna Nenova, Kalin Kalinov, Ana Dobreva, Dimitar Peshev and Ivan Iliev
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7521; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157521 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Recently, essential rose oils and rose products have gained increasing importance in both the cosmetic and food industries, as well as in the composition of medicinal products. We investigated the in vitro antiviral activity of essential oil and floral water from Rosa damascena [...] Read more.
Recently, essential rose oils and rose products have gained increasing importance in both the cosmetic and food industries, as well as in the composition of medicinal products. We investigated the in vitro antiviral activity of essential oil and floral water from Rosa damascena Mill against herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) infection in rabbit retinal cells (RRCs). The composition of the main chemical components in the rose essential oil was determined by means of gas chromatographic analysis. The effect on the viral replication cycle was determined using the cytopathic effect (CPE) inhibition assay. The virucidal activity, the effect on the adsorption stage of the virus to the host cell, and the protective effect on healthy cells were evaluated using the endpoint dilution method. The effects were determined as deviation in the viral titer, Δlg, for the treated cells from the one for the untreated viral control. The identified main active components of rose oil are geraniol (28.73%), citronellol (21.50%), nonadecane (13.13%), nerol (5.51%), heneicosane (4.87%), nonadecene (3.93), heptadecane (2.29), farnesol (2.11%), tricosane (1.29%), eicosane (1.01%), and eugenol (0.85%). The results demonstrated that both rose products do not have a significant effect on the virus replication but directly affect the viral particles and reduce the viral titer by Δlg = 3.25 for floral water and by Δlg = 3.0 for essential oil. Significant inhibition of the viral adsorption stage was also observed, leading to a decrease in the viral titers by Δlg = 2.25 for floral water and by Δlg = 2.0 for essential oil. When pretreating healthy cells with rose products, both samples significantly protected them from subsequent infection with HSV-1. This protective effect was more pronounced for the oil (Δlg = 2.5) compared to the one for the floral water (Δlg = 2.0). We used the in silico molecular docking method to gain insight into the mechanism of hindrance of viral adsorption by the main rose oil compounds (geraniol, citronellol, nerol). These components targeted the HSV-1 gD interaction surface with nectin-1 and HVEM (Herpesvirus Entry Mediator) host cell receptors, at N-, C-ends, and N-end, respectively. These findings could provide a structural framework for further development of anti-HSV-1 therapeutics. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advances in Retinal Diseases: 2nd Edition)
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13 pages, 1780 KiB  
Article
The Use of Sound Recorders to Remotely Measure Grass Intake Behaviour in Horses
by Daisy E. F. Taylor, Bryony E. Lancaster and Andrea D. Ellis
Animals 2025, 15(15), 2273; https://doi.org/10.3390/ani15152273 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Visual observation to record grass intake is time-consuming and labour-intensive. Technological methods, such as activity monitors, have been used but only record head position. This study aimed to evaluate sound recorders attached to headcollars to acoustically measure grass intake behaviour in horses as [...] Read more.
Visual observation to record grass intake is time-consuming and labour-intensive. Technological methods, such as activity monitors, have been used but only record head position. This study aimed to evaluate sound recorders attached to headcollars to acoustically measure grass intake behaviour in horses as a low-cost alternative method. Pilot Study 1 assessed 6 × 11 min periods comparing bites/min and chews/min between video footage (VD) and sound recorders (SR). Grazing was identified audibly (SRear) and visually through soundwave pattern software (SRwav). Chew rates (SRear: 47 ± 5 chews/min, VD: 43 ± 4 chews/min) were similar between methods. Pilot Study 2 compared hourly grass intake times between SRwav and visual observation (VO) for two horses during a 3 h period. Results showed significant correlation between methods (rho = 0.99, p < 0.01, Spearman). The main study measured intake behaviour using SRwav and VO methods for three free-ranging horses during 3 h observation periods over multiple days, adding up to 3 × 24 h in winter and in spring (n = 48). Mean differences per period between SRwav and VO were 1.8% ± 3 s.d. Foraging duration per period measured with SRwav closely matched VO (r2 = 0.99, p < 0.001). Sound recorders accurately recorded grass intake time and chews in grazing horses during moderate weather conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Equids)
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18 pages, 7618 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Analysis of Axial Bearing Behaviour in Steel Pipe Piles and PHC Piles for Port Engineering
by Runze Zhang, Yizhi Liu, Lei Wang, Weiming Gong and Zhihui Wan
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2738; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152738 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
This paper addresses the critical challenge of selecting suitable pile foundations in port engineering by systematically investigating the axial bearing behavior of large-diameter steel pipe piles and prestressed high-strength concrete (PHC) piles. The study integrates both numerical simulations and field tests within the [...] Read more.
This paper addresses the critical challenge of selecting suitable pile foundations in port engineering by systematically investigating the axial bearing behavior of large-diameter steel pipe piles and prestressed high-strength concrete (PHC) piles. The study integrates both numerical simulations and field tests within the context of the Yancheng Dafeng Port Security Facilities Project. A self-balanced static load numerical model for PHC piles was developed using Plaxis 3D, enabling the simulation of load-displacement responses, axial force transfer, and side resistance distribution. The accuracy of the model was verified through a comparison with field static load test data. With the verified model parameters, the internal force distribution of steel pipe piles was analysed by modifying material properties and adjusting boundary conditions. A comparative analysis of the two pile types was conducted under identical working conditions. The results reveal that the ultimate bearing capacities of the 1# steel pipe pile and the 2# PHC pile are 6734 kN and 6788 kN, respectively. Despite the PHC pile having a 20% larger diameter, its ultimate bearing capacity is comparable to that of the steel pipe pile, suggesting a more efficient utilisation of material strength in the latter. Further numerical simulations indicate that, under the same working conditions, the ultimate bearing capacity of the steel pipe pile exceeds that of the PHC pile by 18.43%. Additionally, the axial force distribution along the steel pipe pile shaft is more uniform, and side resistance is mobilised more effectively. The reduction in side resistance caused by construction disturbances, combined with the slenderness ratio (L/D = 41.7) of the PHC pile, results in 33.87% of the pile’s total bearing capacity being attributed to tip resistance. The findings of this study provide crucial insights into the selection of optimal pile types for terminal foundations, considering factors such as bearing capacity, environmental conditions, and economic viability. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Structures)
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11 pages, 782 KiB  
Article
Exploring the Association Between Platelet Count, the Systemic Immune Inflammation Index, and Fracture Risk in Postmenopausal Women with Osteoporosis: A Cross-Sectional Study
by Cecilia Oliveri, Anastasia Xourafa, Rita Maria Agostino, Valentina Corigliano, Antonino Botindari, Agostino Gaudio, Nunziata Morabito, Alessandro Allegra and Antonino Catalano
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5453; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155453 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Platelets play a role in bone metabolism and fracture healing. This study aimed to investigate the association between platelet indices and the derived systemic immune inflammation index (SII) with fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Methods: Platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Platelets play a role in bone metabolism and fracture healing. This study aimed to investigate the association between platelet indices and the derived systemic immune inflammation index (SII) with fracture risk in postmenopausal women. Methods: Platelet count, mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width (PDW), platelet crit, percentage of large platelets (P-LCR), platelet–lymphocyte ratio, and the SII, calculated as (NxP)/L, where N, P, and L represented neutrophils, platelets and lymphocytes counts, respectively, were evaluated. Bone mineral density (BMD) was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry. Results: A total of 124 women (mean age 68.4 ± 9 years) were stratified into two groups based on the median platelet count; the “lower platelet count group” (n = 58) had a count of 200,000 (174,000 to 226,000), while the “higher platelet count group” (n = 66) had a count of 281,500 (256,500 to 308,500). The higher platelet count group showed a higher hip fracture risk (7.4 vs. 4.5%, p = 0.08) and lower lumbar spine BMD (0.773 vs. 0.83 gr/cm2, p = 0.03). By dividing the participants into two groups with higher SSI (950,848.6 ± 746,097.99) (n = 61) and lower SII (355,751.2 ± 88,662.6) (n = 63), the group with the higher SII showed the higher hip fracture risk (7.4 vs. 3.6%, p = 0.01). Univariate regression analysis revealed correlations between chronological age and PDW (r = 0.188, p = 0.047), and P-LCR (r = 0.208, p = 0.03), as well as associations between vitamin D status and P-LCR (r = −0.301, p = 0.034), and between SII and hip fracture risk (r = 0.12, p = 0.007). Conclusions: Platelet count and SII were associated with fracture risk in postmenopausal women undergoing osteoporosis assessment. Given their reproducibility and cost-effectiveness, these markers warrant further investigation in future prospective studies focused on bone fragility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Diagnosis, Treatment, Prevention and Rehabilitation in Osteoporosis)
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15 pages, 3579 KiB  
Article
Dual-Control-Gate Reconfigurable Ion-Sensitive Field-Effect Transistor with Nickel-Silicide Contacts for Adaptive and High-Sensitivity Chemical Sensing Beyond the Nernst Limit
by Seung-Jin Lee, Seung-Hyun Lee, Seung-Hwa Choi and Won-Ju Cho
Chemosensors 2025, 13(8), 281; https://doi.org/10.3390/chemosensors13080281 - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
In this study, we propose a bidirectional chemical sensor platform based on a reconfigurable ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (R-ISFET) architecture. The device incorporates Ni-silicide Schottky barrier source/drain (S/D) contacts, enabling ambipolar conduction and bidirectional turn-on behavior for both p-type and n-type configurations. Channel polarity [...] Read more.
In this study, we propose a bidirectional chemical sensor platform based on a reconfigurable ion-sensitive field-effect transistor (R-ISFET) architecture. The device incorporates Ni-silicide Schottky barrier source/drain (S/D) contacts, enabling ambipolar conduction and bidirectional turn-on behavior for both p-type and n-type configurations. Channel polarity is dynamically controlled via the program gate (PG), while the control gate (CG) suppresses leakage current, enhancing operational stability and energy efficiency. A dual-control-gate (DCG) structure enhances capacitive coupling, enabling sensitivity beyond the Nernst limit without external amplification. The extended-gate (EG) architecture physically separates the transistor and sensing regions, improving durability and long-term reliability. Electrical characteristics were evaluated through transfer and output curves, and carrier transport mechanisms were analyzed using band diagrams. Sensor performance—including sensitivity, hysteresis, and drift—was assessed under various pH conditions and external noise up to 5 Vpp (i.e., peak-to-peak voltage). The n-type configuration exhibited high mobility and fast response, while the p-type configuration demonstrated excellent noise immunity and low drift. Both modes showed consistent sensitivity trends, confirming the feasibility of complementary sensing. These results indicate that the proposed R-ISFET sensor enables selective mode switching for high sensitivity and robust operation, offering strong potential for next-generation biosensing and chemical detection. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Electrochemical Devices and Sensors)
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18 pages, 6860 KiB  
Article
Molecular Characterization and Antiviral Function Against GCRV of Complement Factor D in Barbel Chub (Squaliobarbus curriculus)
by Yu Xiao, Zhao Lv, Yuling Wei, Mengyuan Zhang, Hong Yang, Chao Huang, Tiaoyi Xiao and Yilin Li
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 370; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080370 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 116
Abstract
The barbel chub (Squaliobarbus curriculus) exhibits remarkable resistance to grass carp reovirus (GCRV), a devastating pathogen in aquaculture. To reveal the molecular basis of this resistance, we investigated complement factor D (DF)—a rate-limiting serine protease governing alternative complement pathway activation. Molecular [...] Read more.
The barbel chub (Squaliobarbus curriculus) exhibits remarkable resistance to grass carp reovirus (GCRV), a devastating pathogen in aquaculture. To reveal the molecular basis of this resistance, we investigated complement factor D (DF)—a rate-limiting serine protease governing alternative complement pathway activation. Molecular cloning revealed that the barbel chub DF (ScDF) gene encodes a 1251-bp cDNA sequence translating into a 250-amino acid protein. Crucially, bioinformatic characterization identified a unique N-glycosylation site at Asn139 in ScDF, representing a structural divergence absent in grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idella) DF (CiDF). While retaining a conserved Tryp_SPc domain harboring the catalytic triad (His61, Asp109, and Ser204) and substrate-binding residues (Asp198, Ser219, and Gly221), sequence and phylogenetic analyses confirmed ScDF’s evolutionary conservation, displaying 94.4% amino acid identity with CiDF and clustering within the Cyprinidae. Expression profiling revealed constitutive ScDF dominance in the liver, and secondary prominence was observed in the heart. Upon GCRV challenge in S. curriculus kidney (SCK) cells, ScDF transcription surged to a 438-fold increase versus uninfected controls at 6 h post-infection (hpi; p < 0.001)—significantly preceding the 168-hpi response peak documented for CiDF in grass carp. Functional validation showed that ScDF overexpression suppressed key viral capsid genes (VP2, VP5, and VP7) and upregulated the interferon regulator IRF9. Moreover, recombinant ScDF protein incubation induced interferon pathway genes and complement C3 expression. Collectively, ScDF’s rapid early induction (peaking at 6 hpi) and multi-pathway coordination may contribute to barbel chub’s GCRV resistance. These findings may provide molecular insights into the barbel chub’s high GCRV resistance compared to grass carp and novel perspectives for anti-GCRV breeding strategies in fish. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Design Breeding in Aquaculture)
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19 pages, 427 KiB  
Review
The Role of Viral Infections in the Immunopathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus: A Narrative Review
by Ioanna Kotsiri, Maria Xanthi, Charalampia-Melangeli Domazinaki and Emmanouil Magiorkinis
Biology 2025, 14(8), 981; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology14080981 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells, resulting in lifelong insulin dependence. While genetic susceptibility—particularly human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles—is a major risk factor, accumulating evidence implicates viral infections [...] Read more.
Type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) is a chronic autoimmune disorder characterized by the destruction of insulin-producing pancreatic beta cells, resulting in lifelong insulin dependence. While genetic susceptibility—particularly human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class II alleles—is a major risk factor, accumulating evidence implicates viral infections as potential environmental triggers in disease onset and progression. This narrative review synthesizes current findings on the role of viral pathogens in T1DM pathogenesis. Enteroviruses, especially Coxsackie B strains, are the most extensively studied and show strong epidemiological and mechanistic associations with beta-cell autoimmunity. Large prospective studies—including Diabetes Virus Detection (DiViD), The environmental determinans of diabetes in the young (TEDDY), Miljøfaktorer i utvikling av type 1 diabetes (MIDIA), and Diabetes Autoimmunity Study in the Young (DAISY)—consistently demonstrate correlations between enteroviral presence and the initiation or acceleration of islet autoimmunity. Other viruses—such as mumps, rubella, rotavirus, influenza A (H1N1), and SARS-CoV-2—have been investigated for their potential involvement through direct cytotoxic effects, immune activation, or molecular mimicry. Interestingly, certain viruses like varicella-zoster virus (VZV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) may exert modulatory or even protective influences on disease progression. Proposed mechanisms include direct beta-cell infection, molecular mimicry, bystander immune activation, and dysregulation of innate and adaptive immunity. Although definitive causality remains unconfirmed, the complex interplay between genetic predisposition, immune responses, and viral exposure underscores the need for further mechanistic research. Elucidating these pathways may inform future strategies for targeted prevention, early detection, and vaccine or antiviral development in at-risk populations. Full article
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22 pages, 2180 KiB  
Article
Regulated Deficit Irrigation Improves Yield Formation and Water and Nitrogen Use Efficiency of Winter Wheat at Different Soil Fertility Levels
by Xiaolei Wu, Zhongdong Huang, Chao Huang, Zhandong Liu, Junming Liu, Hui Cao and Yang Gao
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1874; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081874 - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 238
Abstract
Water scarcity and spatial variability in soil fertility are key constraints to stable grain production in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain. However, the interaction mechanisms between regulated deficit irrigation and soil fertility influencing yield formation and water-nitrogen use efficiency in winter wheat remain unclear. In [...] Read more.
Water scarcity and spatial variability in soil fertility are key constraints to stable grain production in the Huang-Huai-Hai Plain. However, the interaction mechanisms between regulated deficit irrigation and soil fertility influencing yield formation and water-nitrogen use efficiency in winter wheat remain unclear. In this study, a two-year field experiment (2022–2024) was conducted to investigate the effects of two irrigation regimes—regulated deficit irrigation during the heading to grain filling stage (D) and full irrigation (W)—under four soil fertility levels: F1 (N: P: K = 201.84: 97.65: 199.05 kg ha−1), F2 (278.52: 135: 275.4 kg ha−1), F3 (348.15: 168.75: 344.25 kg ha−1), and CK (no fertilization). The results show that aboveground dry matter accumulation, total nitrogen content, pre-anthesis dry matter and nitrogen translocation, and post-anthesis accumulation significantly increased with fertility level (p < 0.05). Regulated deficit irrigation promoted the contribution of post-anthesis dry matter to grain yield under the CK and F1 treatments, but suppressed it under the F2 and F3 treatments. However, it consistently enhanced the contribution of post-anthesis nitrogen to grain yield (p < 0.05) across all fertility levels. Higher fertility levels prolonged the grain filling duration by 18.04% but reduced the mean grain filling rate by 15.05%, whereas regulated deficit irrigation shortened the grain filling duration by 3.28% and increased the mean grain filling rate by 12.83% (p < 0.05). Grain yield significantly increased with improved fertility level (p < 0.05), reaching a maximum of 9361.98 kg·ha−1 under the F3 treatment. Regulated deficit irrigation increased yield under the CK and F1 treatments but reduced it under the F2 and F3 treatments. Additionally, water use efficiency exhibited a parabolic response to fertility level and was significantly enhanced by regulated deficit irrigation. Nitrogen partial factor productivity (NPFP) declined with increasing fertility level (p < 0.05); Regulated deficit irrigation improved NPFP under the F1 treatment but reduced it under the F2 and F3 treatments. The highest NPFP (41.63 kg·kg−1) was achieved under the DF1 treatment, which was 54.81% higher than that under the F3 treatment. TOPSIS analysis showed that regulated deficit irrigation combined with the F1 fertility level provided the optimal balance among yield, WUE, and NPFP. Therefore, implementing regulated deficit irrigation during the heading–grain filling stage under moderate fertility (F1) is recommended as the most effective strategy for achieving high yield and efficient resource utilization in winter wheat production in this region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Crop Management in Water-Limited Cropping Systems)
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19 pages, 1107 KiB  
Article
A Novel Harmonic Clocking Scheme for Concurrent N-Path Reception in Wireless and GNSS Applications
by Dina Ibrahim, Mohamed Helaoui, Naser El-Sheimy and Fadhel Ghannouchi
Electronics 2025, 14(15), 3091; https://doi.org/10.3390/electronics14153091 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
Viewed by 165
Abstract
This paper presents a novel harmonic-selective clocking scheme that facilitates concurrent downconversion of spectrally distant radio frequency (RF) signals using a single low-frequency local oscillator (LO) in an N-path receiver architecture. The proposed scheme selectively generates LO harmonics aligned with multiple RF bands, [...] Read more.
This paper presents a novel harmonic-selective clocking scheme that facilitates concurrent downconversion of spectrally distant radio frequency (RF) signals using a single low-frequency local oscillator (LO) in an N-path receiver architecture. The proposed scheme selectively generates LO harmonics aligned with multiple RF bands, enabling simultaneous downconversion without modification of the passive mixer topology. The receiver employs a 4-path passive mixer configuration to enhance harmonic selectivity and provide flexible frequency planning.The architecture is implemented on a printed circuit board (PCB) and validated through comprehensive simulation and experimental measurements under continuous wave and modulated signal conditions. Measured results demonstrate a sensitivity of 55dBm and a conversion gain varying from 2.5dB to 9dB depending on the selected harmonic pair. The receiver’s performance is further corroborated by concurrent (dual band) reception of real-world signals, including a GPS signal centered at 1575 MHz and an LTE signal at 1179 MHz, both downconverted using a single 393 MHz LO. Signal fidelity is assessed via Normalized Mean Square Error (NMSE) and Error Vector Magnitude (EVM), confirming the proposed architecture’s effectiveness in maintaining high-quality signal reception under concurrent multiband operation. The results highlight the potential of harmonic-selective clocking to simplify multiband receiver design for wireless communication and global navigation satellite system (GNSS) applications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Microwave and Wireless Communications)
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