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Background/Objectives: Studies have reported that female athletes often exhibit low levels of nutritional knowledge and inadequate dietary intake to meet their nutritional needs. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of a nutritional education intervention on nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, and body composition in female handball players (n = 45; age, 17.6 ± 2.1 years). Methods: A quasi-experimental intervention design was implemented, consisting of a 3-week educational program delivered through six in-person sessions led by a registered dietitian. Nutrition knowledge, dietary intake, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, and anthropometric and body composition measurements were assessed. Results: Nutrition knowledge levels were significantly higher both immediately post-intervention and three months later compared to baseline (p < 0.05, ES > 0.8). A total of 36 participants completed a 3-day dietary record at baseline and at follow-up. Initial assessments revealed insufficient energy (31 kcal/kg/day) and carbohydrate intake (3.0 g/kg/day) and a high intake of total fats (1.4 g/kg/day). During follow-up, a significant decrease in the consumption of foods rich in sugar was observed (p = 0.0272). A total of 82.2% of the players needed to improve their adherence to the Mediterranean diet. No significant changes were found in Mediterranean diet adherence or body composition following the intervention. Conclusions: The nutritional education intervention significantly improved athletes’ nutritional knowledge and significantly decreased their consumption of sugary foods; however, further studies are needed to evaluate its impact on dietary intake and body composition, considering the study’s limitations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Food Habits, Nutritional Knowledge, and Nutrition Education)

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18 pages, 2977 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Unraveling the Excellent High-Temperature Oxidation Behavior of FeNiCuAl-Based Alloy

by Guangxin Wu, Gaosheng Li, Lijun Wei, Hao Chen, Yujie Wang, Yunze Qiao, Yu Hua, Chenyang Shi, Yingde Huang and Wenjie Yang

Materials 2025, 18(15), 3679; https://doi.org/10.3390/ma18153679 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

This study synthesized FeNiCuAlX high-entropy alloys (HEAs) (where X = Cr, Co, Mn) using arc melting and investigated their high-temperature oxidation behavior in air at 900 °C. The oxidation kinetics of all alloys followed a parabolic rate, with the oxidation rate constants (kp) of FeNiCuAlCr, FeNiCuAlCo, and FeNiCuAlMn being approximately two to three orders of magnitude lower than that of the FeNiCu alloy. Specifically, FeNiCuAlCr exhibited the lowest kp value of 1.72 × 10⁻⁶ mg²·cm⁴/s, which is significantly lower than those of FeNiCuAlCo (3.29 × 10⁻⁶ mg²·cm⁴/s) and FeNiCuAlMn (1.71 × 10⁻⁵ mg²·cm⁴/s). This suggests that the addition of chromium promotes the formation of a dense Al₂O₃/Cr₂O₃ oxide layer, significantly enhancing the oxidation resistance. Furthermore, corrosion resistance was assessed through potentiodynamic polarization and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy in a 3.5% NaCl solution. FeNiCuAlCr demonstrated exceptional resistance to localized corrosion, as indicated by its low corrosion current density (45.7 μA/cm²) and high pitting potential (−0.21 V), highlighting its superior corrosion performance. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Characterization, Properties, and Applications of New Metallic Alloys)

21 pages, 1209 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sustainable Membrane-Based Acoustic Metamaterials Using Cork and Honeycomb Structures: Experimental and Numerical Characterization

by Giuseppe Ciaburro and Virginia Puyana-Romero

Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2763; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152763 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

This work presents the experimental and numerical investigation of a novel acoustic metamaterial based on sustainable and biodegradable components: cork membranes and honeycomb cores made from treated aramid paper. The design exploits the principle of localized resonance induced by tensioned membranes coupled with subwavelength cavities, aiming to achieve high sound absorption at low (250–500 Hz) and mid frequencies (500–1400 Hz) with minimal thickness and environmental impact. Three configurations were analyzed, varying the number of membranes (one, two, and three) while keeping a constant core structure composed of three stacked honeycomb layers. Acoustic performance was measured using an impedance tube (Kundt’s tube), focusing on the normal-incidence sound absorption coefficient in the frequency range of 250–1400 Hz. The results demonstrate that increasing the number of membranes introduces multiple resonances and broadens the effective absorption bandwidth. Numerical simulations were performed to predict pressure field distributions. The numerical model showed good agreement with the experimental data, validating the underlying physical model of coupled mass–spring resonators. The proposed metamaterial offers a low-cost, modular, and fully recyclable solution for indoor sound control, combining acoustic performance and environmental sustainability. These findings offer promising perspectives for the application of bio-based metamaterials in architecture and eco-design. Further developments will address durability, high-frequency absorption, and integration in hybrid soundproofing systems. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Advanced Materials, Structural Systems and Construction for Green Buildings)

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25 pages, 482 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Influence of Managers’ Safety Perceptions and Practices on Construction Workers’ Safety Behaviors in Saudi Arabian Projects: The Mediating Roles of Workers’ Safety Awareness, Competency, and Safety Actions

by Talal Mousa Alshammari, Musab Rabi, Mazen J. Al-Kheetan and Abdulrazzaq Jawish Alkherret

Safety 2025, 11(3), 77; https://doi.org/10.3390/safety11030077 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Improving construction site safety remains a critical challenge in Saudi Arabia’s rapidly growing construction sector, where high accident rates and diverse labor forces demand evidence-based managerial interventions. This study investigated the influence of Managers’ Safety Perceptions and Practices (MSP) on Workers’ Safety Behaviors (WSB) in the Saudi construction industry, emphasizing the mediating roles of Workers’ Safety Awareness (WSA), Safety Competency (WSC), and Safety Actions (SA). The conceptual framework integrates these three mediators to explain how managerial attitudes and practices translate into frontline safety outcomes. A quantitative, cross-sectional design was adopted using a structured questionnaire distributed among construction workers, supervisors, and project managers. A total of 352 from 384 valid responses were collected, and the data were analyzed using Partial Least Squares Structural Equation Modeling (PLS-SEM) via SmartPLS 4. The findings revealed that MSP does not directly influence WSB but has significant indirect effects through WSA, WSC, and SA. Among these, WSC emerged as the most powerful mediator, followed by WSA and SA, indicating that competency is the most critical driver of safe worker behavior. These results provide robust empirical support for a multidimensional mediation model, highlighting the need for managers to enhance safety behaviors not merely through supervision but through fostering awareness and competency, providing technical training, and implementing proactive safety measures. Theoretically, this study contributes a novel and integrative framework to the occupational safety literature, particularly within underexplored Middle Eastern construction contexts. Practically, it offers actionable insights for safety managers, industry practitioners, and policymakers seeking to improve construction safety performance in alignment with Saudi Vision 2030. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Safety Performance Assessment and Management in Construction)

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23 pages, 1650 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Generative AI-Enhanced Virtual Reality Simulation for Pre-Service Teacher Education: A Mixed-Methods Analysis of Usability and Instructional Utility for Course Integration

by Sumin Hong, Jewoong Moon, Taeyeon Eom, Idowu David Awoyemi and Juno Hwang

Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 997; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15080997 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Teacher education faces persistent challenges, including limited access to authentic field experiences and a disconnect between theoretical instruction and classroom practice. While virtual reality (VR) simulations offer an alternative, most are constrained by inflexible design and lack scalability, failing to mirror the complexity of real teaching environments. This study introduces TeacherGen@i, a generative AI (GenAI)-enhanced VR simulation designed to provide pre-service teachers with immersive, adaptive teaching practice through realistic GenAI agents. Using an explanatory case study with a mixed-methods approach, the study examines the simulation’s usability, design challenges, and instructional utility within a university-based teacher preparation course. Data sources included usability surveys and reflective journals, analyzed through thematic coding and computational linguistic analysis using LIWC. Findings suggest that TeacherGen@i facilitates meaningful development of teaching competencies such as instructional decision-making, classroom communication, and student engagement, while also identifying notable design limitations related to cognitive load, user interface design, and instructional scaffolding. This exploratory research offers preliminary insights into the integration of generative AI in teacher simulations and its potential to support responsive and scalable simulation-based learning environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Emerging Technologies in Teaching and Learning to Solve Real-World Challenges: Perspectives, Challenges, and Future Directions)

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14 pages, 1848 KiB

Open AccessArticle

RadiomiX for Radiomics Analysis: Automated Approaches to Overcome Challenges in Replicability

by Harel Kotler, Luca Bergamin, Fabio Aiolli, Elena Scagliori, Angela Grassi, Giulia Pasello, Alessandra Ferro, Francesca Caumo and Gisella Gennaro

Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1968; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151968 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Background/Objectives: To simplify the decision-making process in radiomics by employing RadiomiX, an algorithm designed to automatically identify the best model combination and validate them across multiple environments was developed, thus enhancing the reliability of results. Methods: RadiomiX systematically tests classifier and feature selection method combinations known to be suitable for radiomic datasets to determine the best-performing configuration across multiple train–test splits and K-fold cross-validation. The framework was validated on four public retrospective radiomics datasets including lung nodules, metastatic breast cancer, and hepatic encephalopathy using CT, PET/CT, and MRI modalities. Model performance was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating-characteristic curve (AUC) and accuracy metrics. Results: RadiomiX achieved superior performance across four datasets: LLN (AUC = 0.850 and accuracy = 0.785), SLN (AUC = 0.845 and accuracy = 0.754), MBC (AUC = 0.889 and accuracy = 0.833), and CHE (AUC = 0.837 and accuracy = 0.730), significantly outperforming original published models (p < 0.001 for LLN/SLN and p = 0.023 for MBC accuracy). When original published models were re-evaluated using ten-fold cross-validation, their performance decreased substantially: LLN (AUC = 0.783 and accuracy = 0.731), SLN (AUC = 0.748 and accuracy = 0.714), MBC (AUC = 0.764 and accuracy = 0.711), and CHE (AUC = 0.755 and accuracy = 0.677), further highlighting RadiomiX’s methodological advantages. Conclusions: Systematically testing model combinations using RadiomiX has led to significant improvements in performance. This emphasizes the potential of automated ML as a step towards better-performing and more reliable radiomic models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence in Diagnostics)

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19 pages, 6687 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of Elastic Modulus Calculations in ASTM D7205 and CSA S806 for CFRP Rebar Under Elevated Temperature

by Seung-Beom Kang, Dae-Hee Kang and Wonchang Choi

Polymers 2025, 17(15), 2143; https://doi.org/10.3390/polym17152143 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

In this study, the elastic modulus of CFRP rebars under high-temperature conditions was evaluated in accordance with ASTM D7205 and CSA S806, and the differences between the two standards were compared and analyzed. CFRP rebars with diameters of 10 mm and 13 mm were tested, and tensile specimens were prepared following the procedures specified in both standards. Tensile tests were conducted at temperatures ranging from 25 °C to 650 °C using an electric furnace. Fracture morphology before and after testing, as well as microstructural changes, were examined through scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The results revealed that the ASTM standard determines the elastic modulus based on the initial linear portion of the stress–strain curve before the transition point, whereas the CSA standard includes the post-transition segment. At temperatures below 325 °C, the ASTM-derived modulus exhibited a lower coefficient of variation (COV) compared to the CSA-derived values, indicating a more stable performance. By applying the experimentally obtained modulus values to various prediction models, the model with the lowest average error was identified. These findings confirm that the elastic modulus of CFRP rebars can be reasonably predicted under elevated-temperature conditions using calibrated models. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Polymer Applications)

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33 pages, 3416 KiB

Open AccessReview

Harnessing an Algae–Bacteria Symbiosis System: Innovative Strategies for Enhancing Complex Wastewater Matrices Treatment

by Wantong Zhao, Kun Tian, Lan Zhang, Ye Tang, Ruihuan Chen, Xiangyong Zheng and Min Zhao

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7104; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157104 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Complex wastewater matrices hinder the efficacy of conventional treatment methods due to the presence of various inorganic and organic pollutants, along with their intricate interactions. Leveraging the synergy between algae and bacteria, algal–bacterial symbiosis (ABS) systems offering an evolutionary and highly effective approach. The ABS system demonstrates 10–30% higher removal efficiency than conventional biological/physicochemical methods under identical conditions, especially at low C/N ratios. Recent advances in biology techniques and big data analytics have deepened our understanding of the synergistic mechanisms involved. Despite the system’s considerable promise, challenges persist concerning complex pollution scenarios and scaling it for industrial applications, particularly regarding system design, environmental adaptability, and stable operation. In this review, we explore the current forms and operational modes of ABS systems, discussing relevant mechanisms in various wastewater treatment contexts. Furthermore, we examine the advantages and limitations of ABS systems in treating complex wastewater matrices, highlighting challenges and proposing future directions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Water Environmental Control of Pollutants and Environmental Sustainability)

15 pages, 920 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Toxicity and Detoxification Enzyme Inhibition in the Two-Spotted Spider Mite (Tetranychus urticae Koch) by Artemisia annua L. Essential Oil and Its Major Monoterpenoids

by Fatemeh Nasr Azadani, Jalal Jalali Sendi, Asgar Ebadollahi, Roya Azizi and William N. Setzer

Insects 2025, 16(8), 811; https://doi.org/10.3390/insects16080811 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

The two-spotted spider mite, Tetranychus urticae, is one of the polyphagous pests of several crops and forestry, resistant to numerous conventional chemicals. Due to the negative side effects of harmful chemical pesticides, such as environmental pollution, and risks to human health, the introduction of effective and low-risk alternatives is essential. The promising pesticidal effects of essential oils (EOs) isolated from Artemisia annua have been documented in recent studies. In the present study, the acaricidal effects of an A. annua EO, along with its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, were investigated against adults of T. urticae. Artemisia annua EO, 1,8-cineole, and camphor, with 24 h-LC₅₀ values of 0.289, 0.533, and 0.64 µL/L air, respectively, had significant toxicity by fumigation against T. urticae adults. Along with lethality, A. annua EO and monoterpenoids had significant inhibitory effects on the activity of detoxifying enzymes, including α- and β-esterases, glutathione S-transferases, and cytochrome P-450 monooxygenase. According to the findings of the present study, A. annua EO and its two dominant monoterpenoids, 1,8-cineole and camphor, with significant toxicity and inhibitory effects on detoxifying enzymes, can be introduced as available, effective, and eco-friendly acaricides in the management of T. urticae. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Plant Essential Oils for the Control of Insects and Mites)

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23 pages, 2640 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DenseNet-Based Classification of EEG Abnormalities Using Spectrograms

by Lan Wei and Catherine Mooney

Algorithms 2025, 18(8), 486; https://doi.org/10.3390/a18080486 - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Electroencephalogram (EEG) analysis is essential for diagnosing neurological disorders but typically requires expert interpretation and significant time. Purpose: This study aims to automate the classification of normal and abnormal EEG recordings to support clinical diagnosis and reduce manual workload. Automating the initial screening of EEGs can help clinicians quickly identify potential neurological abnormalities, enabling timely intervention and guiding further diagnostic and treatment strategies. Methodology: We utilized the Temple University Hospital EEG dataset to develop a DenseNet-based deep learning model. To enable a fair comparison of different EEG representations, we used three input types: signal images, spectrograms, and scalograms. To reduce dimensionality and simplify computation, we focused on two channels: T5 and O1. For interpretability, we applied Local Interpretable Model-agnostic Explanations (LIME) and Gradient-weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad-CAM) to visualize the EEG regions influencing the model’s predictions. Key Findings: Among the input types, spectrogram-based representations achieved the highest classification accuracy, indicating that time-frequency features are especially effective for this task. The model demonstrated strong performance overall, and the integration of LIME and Grad-CAM provided transparent explanations of its decisions, enhancing interpretability. This approach offers a practical and interpretable solution for automated EEG screening, contributing to more efficient clinical workflows and better understanding of complex neurological conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue AI-Assisted Medical Diagnostics)

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19 pages, 768 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimization of Stresses near Reinforced Holes in Relation to Sustainable Design of Composite Structural Elements

by Bartosz Miller, Marta Maksymovych, Olesia Maksymovych and Fedir Gagauz

Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7103; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157103 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

A method for selecting mechanical properties and geometry of reinforcing overlays to increase the strength of composite structural elements with holes has been developed. The method is based on the developed algorithm for calculating stress concentration near holes reinforced with inserted rings or glued composite reinforcing overlays. The determination of stresses near holes and overlays is reduced to solving a system of singular integral equations. The kernels of these equations are constructed using Green’s solution, which allows a reduction in the number of equations to four. It is shown that the stress concentration near holes can be significantly reduced by optimizing the thickness, elastic properties, and shape of the overlays. The stress calculations performed based on the three-dimensional theory of elasticity confirmed the reliability of the results obtained within the framework of the plane problem of an anisotropic body. The results obtained, in accordance with the concept of sustainable development, enable the develop simple methods for increasing reliability, reducing material consumption, and reducing the manufacturing and operating costs of composite structures in the aerospace and mechanical engineering industries. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sustainable Innovations and Advanced Techniques in Composite Structures: Towards a Greener Future)

19 pages, 1860 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Multi-Objective Vibration Control of a Vehicle-Track-Bridge Coupled System Using Tuned Inerter Dampers Based on the FE-SEA Hybrid Method

by Xingxing Hu, Qingsong Feng, Min Yang and Jian Liu

Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8675; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158675 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

To address the adverse effects of Tuned Inertia Dampers (TIDs) on track slab vibrations while controlling high-frequency rail vibrations, a hybrid Finite Element-Statistical Energy Analysis (FE-SEA) method is developed for modeling the vehicle-track-bridge coupled system. Short-wavelength track irregularities are introduced as high-frequency excitation, and the accuracy and efficiency of this method are validated by comparison with the traditional finite element method (FEM). A vibration control model for track-bridge structures incorporating TIDs is designed, and the effects of the TID’s inertance, stiffness, and damping coefficients on the vertical acceleration responses of the rail and track slab are investigated in detail. The study reveals that although TIDs effectively reduce rail vibrations, they may induce adverse effects on track slab vibrations. Using the vibration acceleration amplitudes of both the rail and track slab as dual control objectives, a multi-objective optimization model is established, and the TID’s optimal parameters are determined using a multi-objective genetic algorithm. The results show that the optimized TID parameters reduce rail acceleration amplitudes by 16.43% and improve the control efficiency by 12.45%, while also addressing the negative effects on track slab vibration. The track slab’s vibration acceleration is reduced by 5.47%, and the vertical displacement and acceleration of the vehicle body are reduced by 14.22% and 47.5%, respectively, thereby enhancing passenger comfort. This study provides new insights and theoretical guidance for vibration control analysis in vehicle-track-bridge coupled systems. Full article

10 pages, 220 KiB

Open AccessPerspective

Reframing Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS): Biological Basis of Disease and Recommendations for Supporting Patients

by Priya Agarwal and Kenneth J. Friedman

Healthcare 2025, 13(15), 1917; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13151917 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) is a worldwide challenge. There are an estimated 17–24 million patients worldwide, with an estimated 60 percent or more who have not been diagnosed. Without a known cure, no specific curative medication, disability lasting years to being life-long, and disagreement among healthcare providers as to how to most appropriately treat these patients, ME/CFS patients are in need of assistance. Appropriate healthcare provider education would increase the percentage of patients diagnosed and treated; however, in-school healthcare provider education is limited. To address the latter issue, the New Jersey Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome Association (NJME/CFSA) has developed an independent, incentive-driven, learning program for students of the health professions. NJME/CFSA offers a yearly scholarship program in which applicants write a scholarly paper on an ME/CFS-related topic. The efficacy of the program is demonstrated by the 2024–2025 first place scholarship winner’s essay, which addresses the biological basis of ME/CFS and how the healthcare provider can improve the quality of life of ME/CFS patients. For the reader, the essay provides an update on what is known regarding the biological underpinnings of ME/CFS, as well as a medical student’s perspective as to how the clinician can provide care and support for ME/CFS patients. The original essay has been slightly modified to demonstrate that ME/CFS is a worldwide problem and for publication. Full article

(This article belongs to the Collection Why Some Patients Never Fully Recover: Post Active Phase of Infection Syndromes (PAPIS))

9 pages, 497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ultra-Weak Photon Emission from Crown Ethers Exposed to Fenton’s Reagent Fe²⁺-H₂O₂

by Michał Nowak, Krzysztof Sasak, Anna Wlodarczyk, Izabela Grabska-Kobylecka, Agata Sarniak and Dariusz Nowak

Molecules 2025, 30(15), 3282; https://doi.org/10.3390/molecules30153282 - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

We hypothesized that compounds containing ether linkages within their backbone structures, when exposed to hydroxyl radicals (•OH), can generate ultra-weak photon emission (UPE) as a result of the formation of triplet excited carbonyl species (³R=O*). To evaluate this hypothesis, we investigated the UPE of four compounds, each at a final concentration of 185.2 µmol/L: EGTA (ethylene glycol-bis(β-aminoethyl ether)-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid), a potent chelator of divalent cations, and three crown ethers—12-crown-4, 15-crown-5, and 18-crown-6—containing two, four, five, and six ether bonds, respectively. •OH was generated using a modified Fenton reagent—92.6 µmol/L Fe²⁺ and 2.6 mmol/L H₂O₂. The highest UPE was recorded for the Fe²⁺–EGTA–H₂O₂ (2863 ± 158 RLU; relative light units), followed by 18-crown-6, 15-crown-5, and 12-crown-4 (1161 ± 78, 615± 86, and 579 ± 109 RLU, respectively; p < 0.05), corresponding to the number of ether groups present. Controls lacking either H₂O₂ or Fe²⁺ exhibited no significant light emission compared to the buffer medium. These findings support the hypothesis that ether bonds, when oxidatively attacked by •OH, undergo chemical transformations resulting in the formation of ³R=O* species, the decay of which is associated with UPE. In crown ethers exposed to Fe²⁺-H₂O₂, the intensity of UPE was correlated with the number of ether bonds in their structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Insights into Bioluminescence and Chemiluminescence)

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21 pages, 432 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interplay Between Depression and Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Shared Pathogenetic Mechanisms and Reciprocal Therapeutic Impacts—A Comprehensive Review

by Amalia Di Petrillo, Agnese Favale, Sara Onali, Amit Kumar, Giuseppe Abbracciavento and Massimo Claudio Fantini

J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5522; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155522 - 5 Aug 2025

Abstract

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is characterized by chronic inflammation of the gastrointestinal tract. Although the aetiology of IBD remains largely unknown, several studies suggest that an individual’s genetic susceptibility, external environmental factors, intestinal microbial flora, and immune responses are all factors involved in and functionally linked to the pathogenesis of IBD. Beyond the gastrointestinal manifestations, IBD patients frequently suffer from psychiatric comorbidities, particularly depression and anxiety. It remains unclear whether these disorders arise solely from reduced quality of life or whether they share overlapping biological mechanisms with IBD. This review aims to explore the bidirectional relationship between IBD and depressive disorders (DDs), with a focus on four key shared mechanisms: immune dysregulation, genetic susceptibility, alterations in gut microbiota composition, and dysfunction of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis. By examining recent literature, we highlight how these interconnected systems may contribute to both intestinal inflammation and mood disturbances. Furthermore, we discuss the reciprocal pharmacologic interactions between IBD and DDs: treatments for IBD, such as TNF-alpha and integrin inhibitors, have demonstrated effects on mood and anxiety symptoms, while certain antidepressants appear to exert independent anti-inflammatory properties, potentially reducing the risk or severity of IBD. Overall, this review underscores the need for a multidisciplinary approach to the care of IBD patients, integrating psychological and gastroenterological assessment. A better understanding of the shared pathophysiology may help refine therapeutic strategies and support the development of personalized, gut–brain-targeted interventions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Inflammatory Bowel Diseases in 2024 and Beyond: From Diagnosis to Treatment)

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