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Search Results (15,445)

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Keywords = PD0332991

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21 pages, 733 KiB  
Systematic Review
The Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Improving Balance and Gait in People with Parkinson’s Disease: A Systematic Review
by Sofia Fernandes, Bruna Oliveira, Sofia Sacadura, Cristina Rakasi, Isabel Furtado, João Paulo Figueiredo, Rui Soles Gonçalves and Anabela Correia Martins
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4795; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154795 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Virtual reality (VR), often used with motion sensors, provides interactive tools for physiotherapy aimed at enhancing motor functions. This systematic review examined the effects of VR-based interventions, alone or combined with conventional physiotherapy (PT), on balance and gait in individuals with Parkinson’s [...] Read more.
Background: Virtual reality (VR), often used with motion sensors, provides interactive tools for physiotherapy aimed at enhancing motor functions. This systematic review examined the effects of VR-based interventions, alone or combined with conventional physiotherapy (PT), on balance and gait in individuals with Parkinson’s disease (PD). Methods: Following PRISMA guidelines, eight randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published between January 2019 and April 2025 were included. Interventions lasted between 5 and 12 weeks and were grouped as VR alone or VR combined with PT. Methodological quality was assessed using the PEDro Scale. Results: Of the 31 comparisons for balance and gait, 30 were favored by the experimental group, with 12 reaching statistical significance. Secondary outcomes (function, cognition, and quality of life) showed mixed results, with 6 comparisons favoring the experimental group (3 statistically significant) and 4 favoring the control group (1 statistically significant). Overall, the studies showed fair to good quality and a moderate risk of bias. Conclusions: VR-based interventions, particularly when combined with PT, show promise for improving balance and gait in PD. However, the evidence is limited by the small number of studies, heterogeneity of protocols, and methodological constraints. More rigorous, long-term trials are needed to clarify their therapeutic potential. Full article
16 pages, 4427 KiB  
Article
Garlic-Derived Allicin Attenuates Parkinson’s Disease via PKA/p-CREB/BDNF/DAT Pathway Activation and Apoptotic Inhibition
by Wanchen Zeng, Yingkai Wang, Yang Liu, Xiaomin Liu and Zhongquan Qi
Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3265; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153265 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Allicin (ALC), a naturally occurring organosulfur compound derived from garlic (Allium sativum), exhibits potential neuroprotective properties. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and motor dysfunction. This study utilized bioinformatics and network pharmacology methods [...] Read more.
Allicin (ALC), a naturally occurring organosulfur compound derived from garlic (Allium sativum), exhibits potential neuroprotective properties. Parkinson’s disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characterized by degeneration of dopaminergic neurons and motor dysfunction. This study utilized bioinformatics and network pharmacology methods to predict the anti-PD mechanism of ALC and established in vivo and in vitro PD models using 6-hydroxydopamine (6-OHDA) for experimental verification. Network pharmacological analysis indicates that apoptosis regulation and the PKA/p-CREB/BDNF signaling pathway are closely related to the anti-PD effect of ALC, and protein kinase A (PKA) and dopamine transporter (DAT) are key molecular targets. The experimental results show that ALC administration can alleviate the cytotoxicity of SH-SY5Y induced by 6-OHDA and simultaneously improve the motor dysfunction and dopaminergic neuron loss in PD mice. In addition, ALC can also activate the PKA/p-CREB/BDNF signaling pathway and increase the DAT level in brain tissue, regulate the expression of BAX and Bcl-2, and reduce neuronal apoptosis. These results indicate that ALC can exert anti-PD effects by up-regulating the PKA/p-CREB/BDNF/DAT signaling pathway and inhibiting neuronal apoptosis, providing theoretical support for the application of ALC in PD. Full article
(This article belongs to the Topic Natural Products and Drug Discovery—2nd Edition)
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16 pages, 4672 KiB  
Article
Corrosion Behavior and Mechanism of Mg-1Bi and Mg-1Sn Extruded Alloys
by Hao Dong, Yongqiang Zhao, Yuying He, Shujuan Liu and Jinghuai Zhang
Metals 2025, 15(8), 871; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080871 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Improving the corrosion resistance of magnesium (Mg) alloys is a long-term challenge, especially when cost-effectiveness is taken into account. In this work, Mg-1Bi and Mg-1Sn extruded alloys are prepared, and the effects of cost-effective Bi and Sn on the corrosion behavior of Mg [...] Read more.
Improving the corrosion resistance of magnesium (Mg) alloys is a long-term challenge, especially when cost-effectiveness is taken into account. In this work, Mg-1Bi and Mg-1Sn extruded alloys are prepared, and the effects of cost-effective Bi and Sn on the corrosion behavior of Mg alloys are comparatively studied. The corrosion resistance of the Mg-1Sn alloy (PH: 2.83 ± 0.19 mm y−1) is better than that of the Mg-1Bi alloy (PH: 13.75 ± 1.12 mm y−1), being about five times greater. In addition to the relatively low dislocation density in Mg-1Sn alloy, the difference in corrosion resistance is mainly attributed to two aspects of influence brought about by the addition of Sn and Bi. The Mg2Sn phase introduced by the addition of Sn has a potential difference (PD) of ~30 mV, which is significantly lower than that (~90 mV) of the Mg3Bi2 phase introduced by adding Bi, thereby weakening the micro-couple corrosion tendency of the Mg-1Sn alloy. The addition of Bi has little effect on the corrosion film, while the addition of Sn makes the corrosion film on the Mg-1Sn alloy contain SnO2, improving the compactness of the corrosion film and thereby enhancing the corrosion protection effect. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Corrosion and Protection)
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23 pages, 3221 KiB  
Article
Drought Modulates Root–Microbe Interactions and Functional Gene Expression in Plateau Wetland Herbaceous Plants
by Yuanyuan Chen, Shishi Feng, Qianmin Liu, Di Kang and Shuzhen Zou
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2413; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152413 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
In plateau wetlands, the interactions of herbaceous roots with ectorhizosphere soil microorganisms represent an important way to realize their ecological functions. Global change-induced aridification of plateau wetlands has altered long-established functional synergistic relationships between plant roots and ectorhizosphere soil microbes, but we still [...] Read more.
In plateau wetlands, the interactions of herbaceous roots with ectorhizosphere soil microorganisms represent an important way to realize their ecological functions. Global change-induced aridification of plateau wetlands has altered long-established functional synergistic relationships between plant roots and ectorhizosphere soil microbes, but we still know little about this phenomenon. In this context, nine typical wetlands with three different moisture statuses were selected from the eastern Tibetan Plateau in this study to analyze the relationships among herbaceous plant root traits and microbial communities and functions. The results revealed that drought significantly inhibited the accumulation of root biomass and surface area as well as the development of root volumes and diameters. Similarly, drought significantly reduced the diversity of ectorhizosphere soil microbial communities and the relative abundances of key phyla of archaea and bacteria. Redundancy analysis revealed that plant root traits and ectorhizosphere soil microbes were equally regulated by soil physicochemical properties. Functional genes related to carbohydrate metabolism were significantly associated with functional traits related to plant root elongation and nutrient uptake. Functional genes related to carbon and energy metabolism were significantly associated with traits related to plant root support and storage. Key genes such as CS,gltA, and G6PD,zwf help to improve the drought resistance and barrenness resistance of plant roots. This study helps to elucidate the synergistic mechanism of plant and soil microbial functions in plateau wetlands under drought stress, and provides a basis for evolutionary research and conservation of wetland ecosystems in the context of global change. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Soil-Beneficial Microorganisms and Plant Growth: 2nd Edition)
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21 pages, 328 KiB  
Review
Adjuvant Immunotherapy in Stage IIB/IIC Melanoma: Current Evidence and Future Directions
by Ivana Prkačin, Ana Brkić, Nives Pondeljak, Mislav Mokos, Klara Gaćina and Mirna Šitum
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1894; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081894 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma are at high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis, despite surgical treatment. The recent emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to their evaluation in the adjuvant setting for early-stage disease. This [...] Read more.
Background: Patients with resected stage IIB and IIC melanoma are at high risk of recurrence and distant metastasis, despite surgical treatment. The recent emergence of immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) has led to their evaluation in the adjuvant setting for early-stage disease. This review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding adjuvant immunotherapy for stage IIB/IIC melanoma, explore emerging strategies, and highlight key challenges and future directions. Methods: We conducted a comprehensive literature review of randomized clinical trials, observational studies, and relevant mechanistic and biomarker research on adjuvant therapy in stage IIB/IIC melanoma. Particular focus was placed on pivotal trials evaluating PD-1 inhibitors (KEYNOTE-716 and CheckMate 76K), novel vaccine and targeted therapy trials, mechanisms of resistance, immune-related toxicity, and biomarker development. Results: KEYNOTE-716 and CheckMate 76K demonstrated significant improvements in recurrence-free survival (RFS) and distant metastasis-free survival (DMFS) with pembrolizumab and nivolumab, respectively, compared to placebo. However, no definitive overall survival benefit has yet been shown. Adjuvant immunotherapy is linked to immune-related adverse events, including permanent endocrinopathies. Emerging personalized approaches, such as circulating tumor DNA monitoring and gene expression profiling, may enhance patient selection, but remain investigational. Conclusions: Adjuvant PD-1 blockade offers clear RFS benefits in high-risk stage II melanoma, but optimal patient selection remains challenging, due to uncertain overall survival benefit and toxicity concerns. Future trials should integrate biomarker-driven approaches to refine therapeutic decisions and minimize overtreatment. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Gene and Cell Therapy)
18 pages, 1214 KiB  
Article
Predictive Maintenance System to RUL Prediction of Li-Ion Batteries and Identify the Fault Type of Brushless DC Electric Motor from UAVs
by Dragos Alexandru Andrioaia
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4782; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154782 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have started to be used more and more due to the benefits they bring. Failure of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle components may result in loss of control, which may cause property damage or personal injury. In order to increase the operational [...] Read more.
Unmanned Aerial Vehicles have started to be used more and more due to the benefits they bring. Failure of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle components may result in loss of control, which may cause property damage or personal injury. In order to increase the operational safety of the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, the implementation of a Predictive Maintenance system using the Internet of Things is required. In this paper, the authors propose a new architecture of Predictive Maintenance system for Unmanned Aerial Vehicles that is able to identify the fault type of Brushless DC electric motor and determine the Remaining Useful Life of the Li-ion batteries. In order to create the Predictive Maintenance system within the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle, an architecture based on Fog Computing was proposed and Machine Learning was used to extract knowledge from the data. The proposed architecture was practically validated. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Fault Diagnosis & Sensors)
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23 pages, 5809 KiB  
Article
Multistrain Microbial Inoculant Enhances Yield and Medicinal Quality of Glycyrrhiza uralensis in Arid Saline–Alkali Soil and Modulate Root Nutrients and Microbial Diversity
by Jun Zhang, Xin Li, Peiyao Pei, Peiya Wang, Qi Guo, Hui Yang and Xian Xue
Agronomy 2025, 15(8), 1879; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15081879 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (G. uralensis), a leguminous plant, is an important medicinal and economic plant in saline–alkaline soils of arid regions in China. Its main bioactive components include liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid, and flavonoids, which play significant roles in maintaining human health and [...] Read more.
Glycyrrhiza uralensis (G. uralensis), a leguminous plant, is an important medicinal and economic plant in saline–alkaline soils of arid regions in China. Its main bioactive components include liquiritin, glycyrrhizic acid, and flavonoids, which play significant roles in maintaining human health and preventing and adjuvantly treating related diseases. However, the cultivation of G. uralensis is easily restricted by adverse soil conditions in these regions, characterized by high salinity, high alkalinity, and nutrient deficiency. This study investigated the impacts of four multistrain microbial inoculants (Pa, Pb, Pc, Pd) on the growth performance and bioactive compound accumulation of G. uralensis in moderately saline–sodic soil. The aim was to screen the most beneficial inoculant from these strains, which were isolated from the rhizosphere of plants in moderately saline–alkaline soils of the Hexi Corridor and possess native advantages with excellent adaptability to arid environments. The results showed that inoculant Pc, comprising Pseudomonas silesiensis, Arthrobacter sp. GCG3, and Rhizobium sp. DG1, exhibited superior performance: it induced a 0.86-unit reduction in lateral root number relative to the control, while promoting significant increases in single-plant dry weight (101.70%), single-plant liquiritin (177.93%), single-plant glycyrrhizic acid (106.10%), and single-plant total flavonoids (107.64%). Application of the composite microbial inoculant Pc induced no significant changes in the pH and soluble salt content of G. uralensis rhizospheric soils. However, it promoted root utilization of soil organic matter and nitrate, while significantly increasing the contents of available potassium and available phosphorus in the rhizosphere. High-throughput sequencing revealed that Pc reorganized the rhizospheric microbial communities of G. uralensis, inducing pronounced shifts in the relative abundances of rhizospheric bacteria and fungi, leading to significant enrichment of target bacterial genera (Arthrobacter, Pseudomonas, Rhizobium), concomitant suppression of pathogenic fungi, and proliferation of beneficial fungi (Mortierella, Cladosporium). Correlation analyses showed that these microbial shifts were linked to improved plant nutrition and secondary metabolite biosynthesis. This study highlights Pc as a sustainable strategy to enhance G. uralensis yield and medicinal quality in saline–alkali ecosystems by mediating microbe–plant–nutrient interactions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Farming Sustainability)
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60 pages, 1351 KiB  
Review
The Redox Revolution in Brain Medicine: Targeting Oxidative Stress with AI, Multi-Omics and Mitochondrial Therapies for the Precision Eradication of Neurodegeneration
by Matei Șerban, Corneliu Toader and Răzvan-Adrian Covache-Busuioc
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7498; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157498 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Oxidative stress is a defining and pervasive driver of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). As a molecular accelerant, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) compromise mitochondrial function, amplify lipid peroxidation, induce [...] Read more.
Oxidative stress is a defining and pervasive driver of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). As a molecular accelerant, reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) compromise mitochondrial function, amplify lipid peroxidation, induce protein misfolding, and promote chronic neuroinflammation, creating a positive feedback loop of neuronal damage and cognitive decline. Despite its centrality in promoting disease progression, attempts to neutralize oxidative stress with monotherapeutic antioxidants have largely failed owing to the multifactorial redox imbalance affecting each patient and their corresponding variation. We are now at the threshold of precision redox medicine, driven by advances in syndromic multi-omics integration, Artificial Intelligence biomarker identification, and the precision of patient-specific therapeutic interventions. This paper will aim to reveal a mechanistically deep assessment of oxidative stress and its contribution to diseases of neurodegeneration, with an emphasis on oxidatively modified proteins (e.g., carbonylated tau, nitrated α-synuclein), lipid peroxidation biomarkers (F2-isoprostanes, 4-HNE), and DNA damage (8-OHdG) as significant biomarkers of disease progression. We will critically examine the majority of clinical trial studies investigating mitochondria-targeted antioxidants (e.g., MitoQ, SS-31), Nrf2 activators (e.g., dimethyl fumarate, sulforaphane), and epigenetic reprogramming schemes aiming to re-establish antioxidant defenses and repair redox damage at the molecular level of biology. Emerging solutions that involve nanoparticles (e.g., antioxidant delivery systems) and CRISPR (e.g., correction of mutations in SOD1 and GPx1) have the potential to transform therapeutic approaches to treatment for these diseases by cutting the time required to realize meaningful impacts and meaningful treatment. This paper will argue that with the connection between molecular biology and progress in clinical hyperbole, dynamic multi-targeted interventions will define the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases in the transition from disease amelioration to disease modification or perhaps reversal. With these innovations at our doorstep, the future offers remarkable possibilities in translating network-based biomarker discovery, AI-powered patient stratification, and adaptive combination therapies into individualized/long-lasting neuroprotection. The question is no longer if we will neutralize oxidative stress; it is how likely we will achieve success in the new frontier of neurodegenerative disease therapies. Full article
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20 pages, 2286 KiB  
Article
PD-1, PD-L1, and PD-L2 Expression as Predictive Markers in Rare Feline Mammary Tumors
by Maria Franco, Fernanda Seixas, Maria dos Anjos Pires, Anabela Alves, Andreia Santos, Carla Marrinhas, Hugo Vilhena, Joana Santos, Pedro Faísca, Patrícia Dias-Pereira, Adelina Gama, Jorge Correia and Fernando Ferreira
Vet. Sci. 2025, 12(8), 731; https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci12080731 (registering DOI) - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) exhibits aggressive behavior, with limited treatment options. Given the relevance of the PD-1/PD-L1/PD-L2 axis in human breast cancer immunotherapy, this study assessed PD-1 and its ligands in rare FMC histotypes (n = 48) using immunohistochemistry on tumor cells (TCs), [...] Read more.
Feline mammary carcinoma (FMC) exhibits aggressive behavior, with limited treatment options. Given the relevance of the PD-1/PD-L1/PD-L2 axis in human breast cancer immunotherapy, this study assessed PD-1 and its ligands in rare FMC histotypes (n = 48) using immunohistochemistry on tumor cells (TCs), intratumoral lymphocytes (iTILs), and stromal tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes (sTILs). PD-1 was expressed in 13% of TCs, 85% of iTILs, and 94% of sTILs, while PD-L1 was observed in 46% of TCs, 96% of iTILs, and 100% of sTILs. PD-L2 was expressed in 79% of TCs and 100% of both iTILs and sTILs, with PD-L1/PD-L2 co-expression in 42% of TCs. Higher PD-1 IHC scores in TCs were associated with a less aggressive biological behavior; PD-L1 in iTILs was linked to skin ulceration, whereas PD-L2 in TCs was associated with its absence. Our findings highlight the relevance of the PD-1/PD-L1/PD-L2 immune checkpoint in rare FMC subtypes and support further investigation into checkpoint-blockade therapies. Full article
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14 pages, 533 KiB  
Article
Immunorecovered but Exhausted: Persistent PD-1/PD-L1 Expression Despite Virologic Suppression and CD4 Recovery in PLWH
by Bogusz Aksak-Wąs, Karolina Skonieczna-Żydecka, Miłosz Parczewski, Rafał Hrynkiewicz, Filip Lewandowski, Karol Serwin, Kaja Mielczak, Adam Majchrzak, Mateusz Bruss and Paulina Niedźwiedzka-Rystwej
Biomedicines 2025, 13(8), 1885; https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13081885 - 3 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: While ART effectively suppresses HIV viremia, many PLWH exhibit persistent immune dysfunction. This study aimed to assess immune recovery and immune exhaustion (PD-1/PD-L1 expression) in newly diagnosed versus long-term ART-treated individuals. Methods: We analyzed 79 PLWH: 52 newly diagnosed individuals (12-month follow-up) [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: While ART effectively suppresses HIV viremia, many PLWH exhibit persistent immune dysfunction. This study aimed to assess immune recovery and immune exhaustion (PD-1/PD-L1 expression) in newly diagnosed versus long-term ART-treated individuals. Methods: We analyzed 79 PLWH: 52 newly diagnosed individuals (12-month follow-up) and 27 long-term-treated patients (Ukrainian refugees). Flow cytometry was used to evaluate CD4+ and CD8+ counts, the CD4+/CD8+ ratio, and PD-1/PD-L1 expression on CD3+, CD4+, and CD19+ lymphocytes. ART regimen and HIV subtype were included as covariates in linear regression models. Results: At 12 months, CD4+ counts were similar between groups (median 596.5 vs. 621 cells/μL, p = 0.22), but newly diagnosed patients had higher CD8+ counts (872 vs. 620 cells/μL, p = 0.028) and a lower CD4+/CD8+ ratio (0.57 vs. 1.05, p = 0.0027). Immune exhaustion markers were significantly elevated in newly diagnosed individuals: CD4+ PD-1+ T cells (24.4% vs. 3.85%, p = 0.0002) and CD3+ PD-1+ T cells (27.3% vs. 12.35%, p < 0.0001). Linear regression confirmed group membership independently predicted higher CD3+ (β = +21.92, p < 0.001), CD4+ (β = +28.87, p < 0.0001), and CD19+ (β = +8.73, p = 0.002) percentages. Lipid parameters and SCORE2 did not differ significantly. Conclusions: Despite virologic suppression and CD4+ recovery, immune exhaustion markers remain elevated in newly diagnosed PLWH, suggesting incomplete immune normalization. Traditional parameters (CD4+ count and CD4+/CD8+ ratio) may not fully capture immune status, warranting broader immunologic profiling in HIV care. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Pathogenesis, Diagnosis and Treatment of Infectious Diseases)
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27 pages, 19737 KiB  
Article
Effect of Landscape Architectural Characteristics on LST in Different Zones of Zhengzhou City, China
by Jiayue Xu, Le Xuan, Cong Li, Tianji Wu, Yajing Wang, Yutong Wang, Xuhui Wang and Yong Wang
Land 2025, 14(8), 1581; https://doi.org/10.3390/land14081581 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 53
Abstract
The process of urbanization has intensified the urban heat environment, with the degradation of thermal conditions closely linked to the morphological characteristics of different functional zones. This study delineated urban functional areas using a multivariate dataset and investigated the seasonal and threshold effects [...] Read more.
The process of urbanization has intensified the urban heat environment, with the degradation of thermal conditions closely linked to the morphological characteristics of different functional zones. This study delineated urban functional areas using a multivariate dataset and investigated the seasonal and threshold effects of landscape and architectural features on land surface temperature (LST) through boosted regression tree (BRT) modeling and Spearman correlation analysis. The key findings are as follows: (1) LST exhibits significant seasonal variation, with the strongest urban heat island effect occurring in summer, particularly within industry, business, and public service zones; residence zones experience the greatest temperature fluctuations, with a seasonal difference of 24.71 °C between spring and summer and a peak temperature of 50.18 °C in summer. (2) Fractional vegetation cover (FVC) consistently demonstrates the most pronounced cooling effect across all zones and seasons. Landscape indicators generally dominate the regulation of LST, with their relative contribution exceeding 45% in green land zones. (3) Population density (PD) exerts a significant, seasonally dependent dual effect on LST, where strategic population distribution can effectively mitigate extreme heat events. (4) Mean building height (MBH) plays a vital role in temperature regulation, showing a marked cooling influence particularly in residence and business zones. Both the perimeter-to-area ratio (LSI) and frontal area index (FAI) exhibit distinct seasonal variations in their impacts on LST. (5) This study establishes specific indicator thresholds to optimize thermal comfort across five functional zones; for instance, FVC should exceed 13% in spring and 31.6% in summer in residence zones to enhance comfort, while maintaining MBH above 24 m further aids temperature regulation. These findings offer a scientific foundation for mitigating urban heat waves and advancing sustainable urban development. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Climate Adaptation Planning in Urban Areas)
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16 pages, 428 KiB  
Article
Biodiversity Patterns and Community Construction in Subtropical Forests Driven by Species Phylogenetic Environments
by Pengcheng Liu, Jiejie Jiao, Chuping Wu, Weizhong Shao, Xuesong Liu and Liangjin Yao
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2397; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152397 - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 60
Abstract
To explore the characteristics of species diversity and phylogenetic diversity, as well as the dominant processes of community construction, in different forest types (deciduous broad-leaved forest, mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest, and Chinese fir plantation) in subtropical regions, analyze the specific driving patterns [...] Read more.
To explore the characteristics of species diversity and phylogenetic diversity, as well as the dominant processes of community construction, in different forest types (deciduous broad-leaved forest, mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest, and Chinese fir plantation) in subtropical regions, analyze the specific driving patterns of soil nutrients and other environmental factors on the formation of forest diversity in different forest types, and clarify the differences in response to environmental heterogeneity between natural forests and plantation forests. Based on 48 fixed monitoring plots of 50 m × 50 m in Shouchang Forest Farm, Jiande City, Zhejiang Province, woody plants with a diameter at breast height ≥5 cm were investigated. Species diversity indices (Margalef index, Shannon–Wiener index, Simpson index, and Pielou index), phylogenetic structure index (PD), and environmental factors were used to analyze the relationship between diversity characteristics and environmental factors through variance analysis, correlation analysis, and generalized linear models. Phylogenetic structural indices (NRI and NTI) were used, combined with a random zero model, to explore the mechanisms of community construction in different forest types. Research has found that (1) the deciduous broad-leaved forest had the highest species diversity (Margalef index of 4.121 ± 1.425) and phylogenetic diversity (PD index of 21.265 ± 7.796), significantly higher than the mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest and the Chinese fir plantation (p < 0.05); (2) there is a significant positive correlation between species richness and phylogenetic diversity, with the best fit being AIC = 70.5636 and R2 = 0.9419 in broad-leaved forests; however, the contribution of evenness is limited; (3) the specific effects of soil factors on different forest types: available phosphorus (AP) is negatively correlated with the diversity of deciduous broad-leaved forests (p < 0.05), total phosphorus (TP) promotes the diversity of coniferous and broad-leaved mixed forests, while the diversity of Chinese fir plantations is significantly negatively correlated with total nitrogen (TN); (4) the phylogenetic structure of three different forest types shows a divergent pattern in deciduous broad-leaved forests, indicating that competition and exclusion dominate the construction of deciduous broad-leaved forests; the aggregation mode of Chinese fir plantation indicates that environmental filtering dominates the construction of Chinese fir plantation; the mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest is a transitional model, indicating that the mixed coniferous and broad-leaved forest is influenced by both stochastic processes and ecological niche processes. In different forest types in subtropical regions, the species and phylogenetic diversity of broad-leaved forests is significantly higher than in other forest types. The impact of soil nutrients on the diversity of different forest types varies, and the characteristics of community construction in different forest types are also different. This indicates the importance of protecting the original vegetation and provides a scientific basis for improving the ecological function of artificial forest ecosystems through structural adjustment. The research results have important practical guidance value for sustainable forest management and biodiversity conservation in the region. Full article
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14 pages, 475 KiB  
Article
Clinical Outcomes of Patients with Achalasia Following Pneumatic Dilation Treatment: A Single Center Experience
by Viktorija Sabljić, Dorotea Božić, Damir Aličić, Žarko Ardalić, Ivna Olić, Damir Bonacin and Ivan Žaja
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5448; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155448 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
Viewed by 58
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Pneumatic dilation (PD) is a widely used treatment modality in the management of achalasia. It is particularly relevant in regions where many centers lack access to advanced therapeutic modalities. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of PD in our [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Pneumatic dilation (PD) is a widely used treatment modality in the management of achalasia. It is particularly relevant in regions where many centers lack access to advanced therapeutic modalities. Therefore, we aimed to assess the effectiveness and safety of PD in our local region. Methods: This study retrospectively analyzed patients with achalasia that underwent PD from 1/2013 to 12/2019. The diagnosis of achalasia was established on the grounds of clinical symptoms, radiological and endoscopic findings, and esophageal manometry. Data on patient’s clinical characteristics, dilation technique and postprocedural follow-up were collected and statistically analyzed. Procedure effectiveness was defined as the postprocedural Eckardt score ≤ 3. Results: PD significantly reduced frequency of dysphagia, regurgitation, and retrosternal pain (p < 0.001). Body-weight increased significantly one month and one year after the procedure (p < 0.001). The procedural success rate was 100%. No severe complications were reported. Conclusions: PD is an effective and safe treatment modality in the management of achalasia. The study limitations include a single center design with the small number of participants, not all of whom underwent manometry, gender disproportion, absence of non-responders, and a short follow-up. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Clinical Advances in Gastrointestinal Endoscopy)
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12 pages, 1816 KiB  
Article
Massive Fluctuations in the Derivatives of Pair Distribution Function Minima and Maxima During the Glass Transition
by Michael I. Ojovan, Anh Khoa Augustin Lu and Dmitri V. Louzguine-Luzgin
Metals 2025, 15(8), 869; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080869 (registering DOI) - 2 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Parametric changes in the first coordination shell (FCS) of a vitreous metallic Pd42.5Cu30Ni7.5P20 alloy are analysed, aiming to confirm the identification of the glass transition temperature (Tg) via processing of XRD patterns utilising [...] Read more.
Parametric changes in the first coordination shell (FCS) of a vitreous metallic Pd42.5Cu30Ni7.5P20 alloy are analysed, aiming to confirm the identification of the glass transition temperature (Tg) via processing of XRD patterns utilising radial and pair distribution functions (RDFs and PDFs) and their evolution with temperature. The Wendt–Abraham empirical criterion of glass transition and its modifications are confirmed in line with previous works, which utilised the kink of the temperature dependences of the minima and maxima of both the PDF and the maxima of the structure factor S(q). Massive fluctuations are, however, identified near the Tg of the derivatives of the minima and maxima of the PDF and maxima of S(q), which adds value to understanding the glass transition in the system as a true second-order-like phase transformation in the non-equilibrium system of atoms. Full article
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Article
A Comparative Analysis of Usual- and Gastric-Type Cervical Adenocarcinoma in a Japanese Population Reveals Distinct Clinicopathological and Molecular Features with Prognostic and Therapeutic Insights
by Umme Farzana Zahan, Hasibul Islam Sohel, Kentaro Nakayama, Masako Ishikawa, Mamiko Nagase, Sultana Razia, Kosuke Kanno, Hitomi Yamashita, Shahataj Begum Sonia and Satoru Kyo
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7469; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157469 (registering DOI) - 1 Aug 2025
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Abstract
Gastric-type cervical adenocarcinoma (GCA) is a rare and aggressive subtype of cervical adenocarcinoma. Despite its clinical significance, its molecular carcinogenesis and therapeutic targets remain poorly understood. This study aimed to compare the clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular profiles of GCA and usual-type cervical adenocarcinoma [...] Read more.
Gastric-type cervical adenocarcinoma (GCA) is a rare and aggressive subtype of cervical adenocarcinoma. Despite its clinical significance, its molecular carcinogenesis and therapeutic targets remain poorly understood. This study aimed to compare the clinicopathological, immunohistochemical, and molecular profiles of GCA and usual-type cervical adenocarcinoma (UCA), exploring prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers in a Japanese population. A total of 110 cervical adenocarcinoma cases, including 16 GCA and 94 UCA cases, were retrospectively analyzed for clinicopathological features, and a panel of immunohistochemical markers was assessed. Sanger sequences were performed for the KRAS, PIK3CA, and BRAF genes, and survival and clinicopathological correlations were assessed using Kaplan–Meier and Cox regression analyses. GCA was significantly associated with more aggressive features than UCA, including lymph node involvement, advanced FIGO stages, increasing recurrence rate, and poor survival status. High ARID1B expression was observed in a subset of GCA cases and correlated with worse progression-free and overall survival. Additionally, PD-L1 expression was more frequent in GCA than UCA and was associated with unfavorable prognostic factors. Conversely, UCA cases showed strong p16 expression, supporting their HPV-driven pathogenesis. Molecular profiling revealed KRAS and PIK3CA mutations in both subtypes, while BRAF mutations were identified exclusively in GCA. These findings reveal distinct clinical and molecular profiles for both tumor types and underscore ARID1B and PD-L1 as predictive prognostic and therapeutic biomarkers in GCA, implicating the use of subtype-specific treatment strategies. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Genomics and Proteomics of Cancer)
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