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Search Results (27,303)

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18 pages, 1942 KiB  
Article
Surveillance and Characterization of Vancomycin-Resistant and Vancomycin-Variable Enterococci in a Hospital Setting
by Claudia Rotondo, Valentina Antonelli, Alberto Rossi, Silvia D’Arezzo, Marina Selleri, Michele Properzi, Silvia Turco, Giovanni Chillemi, Valentina Dimartino, Carolina Venditti, Sara Guerci, Paola Gallì, Carla Nisii, Alessia Arcangeli, Emanuela Caraffa, Stefania Cicalini and Carla Fontana
Antibiotics 2025, 14(8), 795; https://doi.org/10.3390/antibiotics14080795 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Enterococci, particularly Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, are Gram-positive cocci that can cause severe infections in hospitalized patients. The rise of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and vancomycin-variable enterococci (VVE) poses significant challenges in healthcare settings due to their resistance to multiple [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Enterococci, particularly Enterococcus faecalis and Enterococcus faecium, are Gram-positive cocci that can cause severe infections in hospitalized patients. The rise of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE) and vancomycin-variable enterococci (VVE) poses significant challenges in healthcare settings due to their resistance to multiple antibiotics. Methods: We conducted a point prevalence survey (PPS) to assess the prevalence of VRE and VVE colonization in hospitalized patients. Rectal swabs were collected from 160 patients and analyzed using molecular assays (MAs) and culture. Whole-genome sequencing (WGS) and core-genome multilocus sequence typing (cgMLST) were performed to identify the genetic diversity. Results: Of the 160 rectal swabs collected, 54 (33.7%) tested positive for the vanA and/or vanB genes. Culture-based methods identified 47 positive samples (29.3%); of these, 44 isolates were identified as E. faecium and 3 as E. faecalis. Based on the resistance profiles, 35 isolates (74.5%) were classified as VRE, while 12 (25.5%) were classified as VVE. WGS and cgMLST analyses identified seven clusters of E. faecium, with sequence type (ST) 80 being the most prevalent. Various resistance genes and virulence factors were identified, and this study also highlighted intra- and inter-ward transmission of VRE strains. Conclusions: Our findings underscore the potential for virulence and resistance of both the VRE and VVE strains, and they highlight the importance of effective infection control measures to prevent their spread. VVE in particular should be carefully monitored as they often escape detection. Integrating molecular data with clinical information will hopefully enhance our ability to predict and prevent future VRE infections. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hospital-Associated Infectious Diseases and Antibiotic Therapy)
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20 pages, 4576 KiB  
Article
Enhanced HoVerNet Optimization for Precise Nuclei Segmentation in Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma
by Gei Ki Tang, Chee Chin Lim, Faezahtul Arbaeyah Hussain, Qi Wei Oung, Aidy Irman Yajid, Sumayyah Mohammad Azmi and Yen Fook Chong
Diagnostics 2025, 15(15), 1958; https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics15151958 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and demands precise segmentation and classification of nuclei for effective diagnosis and disease severity assessment. This study aims to evaluate the performance of HoVerNet, a deep learning model, [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma (DLBCL) is the most common subtype of non-Hodgkin lymphoma and demands precise segmentation and classification of nuclei for effective diagnosis and disease severity assessment. This study aims to evaluate the performance of HoVerNet, a deep learning model, for nuclei segmentation and classification in CMYC-stained whole slide images and to assess its integration into a user-friendly diagnostic tool. Methods: A dataset of 122 CMYC-stained whole slide images (WSIs) was used. Pre-processing steps, including stain normalization and patch extraction, were applied to improve input consistency. HoVerNet, a multi-branch neural network, was used for both nuclei segmentation and classification, particularly focusing on its ability to manage overlapping nuclei and complex morphological variations. Model performance was validated using metrics such as accuracy, precision, recall, and F1 score. Additionally, a graphic user interface (GUI) was developed to incorporate automated segmentation, cell counting, and severity assessment functionalities. Results: HoVerNet achieved a validation accuracy of 82.5%, with a precision of 85.3%, recall of 82.6%, and an F1 score of 83.9%. The model showed powerful performance in differentiating overlapping and morphologically complex nuclei. The developed GUI enabled real-time visualization and diagnostic support, enhancing the efficiency and usability of DLBCL histopathological analysis. Conclusions: HoVerNet, combined with an integrated GUI, presents a promising approach for streamlining DLBCL diagnostics through accurate segmentation and real-time visualization. Future work will focus on incorporating Vision Transformers and additional staining protocols to improve generalizability and clinical utility. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Artificial Intelligence-Driven Radiomics in Medical Diagnosis)
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22 pages, 3060 KiB  
Article
TOPSIS and AHP-Based Multi-Criteria Decision-Making Approach for Evaluating Redevelopment in Old Residential Projects
by Cheolheung Park, Minwook Son, Jongmyeong Kim, Byeol Kim, Yonghan Ahn and Nahyun Kwon
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7072; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157072 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
This research aims to identify and prioritize key planning elements for the redevelopment of such housing complexes by incorporating perspectives from both experts (supply-side) and residents (demand-side). To achieve this, a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making framework was developed by integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process [...] Read more.
This research aims to identify and prioritize key planning elements for the redevelopment of such housing complexes by incorporating perspectives from both experts (supply-side) and residents (demand-side). To achieve this, a hybrid multi-criteria decision-making framework was developed by integrating the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) and the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). A total of 25 planning elements were identified through Focus Group Interviews and organized into five domains: legal and institutional reforms, project feasibility, residential conditions, social integration, and complex design. The AHP was used to assess the relative importance of each element based on responses from 30 experts and 130 residents. The analysis revealed a clear divergence in priorities: experts emphasized feasibility and regulatory considerations, while residents prioritized livability and spatial quality. Subsequently, the TOPSIS method was applied to evaluate four real-world redevelopment cases. From the supply-side perspective, Seoul A District received the highest score (0.58), whereas from the demand-side perspective, Gyeonggi D District ranked highest (0.69), illustrating the differing priorities of stakeholders. Overall, Gyeonggi D District emerged as the most favorable option in the combined evaluation. This research contributes a structured and inclusive decision-making framework for the regeneration of public housing. By explicitly comparing and quantifying the contrasting preferences of key stakeholders, it underscores the critical need to balance technical feasibility with resident-centered values in future redevelopment initiatives. Full article
21 pages, 6387 KiB  
Article
Carbon Dot-Enhanced Doxorubicin Liposomes: A Dual-Functional Nanoplatform for Cancer Therapy
by Corina-Lenuta Logigan, Cristian Peptu, Corneliu S. Stan, Gabriel Luta, Crina Elena Tiron, Mariana Pinteala, Aleksander Foryś, Bogdan Simionescu, Constanta Ibanescu, Adrian Tiron and Catalina A. Peptu
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(15), 7535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26157535 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Liposomes (LPs) represent one of the most effective nanoscale platforms for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their favorable pharmacokinetic and various body tissue compatibility profiles. Building on recent findings showing that carbon dots derived from N-hydroxyphthalimide (CDs-NHF) possess intrinsic antitumor activity, [...] Read more.
Liposomes (LPs) represent one of the most effective nanoscale platforms for drug delivery in cancer therapy due to their favorable pharmacokinetic and various body tissue compatibility profiles. Building on recent findings showing that carbon dots derived from N-hydroxyphthalimide (CDs-NHF) possess intrinsic antitumor activity, herein, we investigate the possibility of preparing complex nano-platforms composed of LPs encapsulating CDs-NHF and/or doxorubicin (DOX) for breast and lung cancer. Various LP formulations were prepared and characterized using Cryo-TEM and Cryo-SEM for morphological analysis, while zeta potential and fluorescence assessments confirmed their stability and optical properties. Cellular effects were evaluated through immunofluorescence microscopy and proliferation assays. LPs-CDs-NHF significantly reduced cancer cell viability at lower concentrations compared to free CDs-NHF, and this effect was further amplified when combined with doxorubicin. Mechanistically, the liposomal formulations downregulated key signaling molecules including pAKT, pmTOR, and pERK, indicating the disruption of cancer-related pathways. These findings suggest that LPs containing CDs-NHF, either alone or in combination with DOX, exhibit synergistic antitumor activity and hold strong promise as multifunctional nanocarriers for future oncological applications. Full article
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32 pages, 1072 KiB  
Article
Machine Learning-Based Blockchain Technology for Secure V2X Communication: Open Challenges and Solutions
by Yonas Teweldemedhin Gebrezgiher, Sekione Reward Jeremiah, Xianjun Deng and Jong Hyuk Park
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4793; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154793 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is a fundamental technology in the development of intelligent transportation systems, encompassing vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), infrastructure (V2I), and pedestrian (V2P) communications. This technology enables connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) to interact with their surroundings, significantly enhancing road safety, traffic efficiency, and [...] Read more.
Vehicle-to-everything (V2X) communication is a fundamental technology in the development of intelligent transportation systems, encompassing vehicle-to-vehicle (V2V), infrastructure (V2I), and pedestrian (V2P) communications. This technology enables connected and autonomous vehicles (CAVs) to interact with their surroundings, significantly enhancing road safety, traffic efficiency, and driving comfort. However, as V2X communication becomes more widespread, it becomes a prime target for adversarial and persistent cyberattacks, posing significant threats to the security and privacy of CAVs. These challenges are compounded by the dynamic nature of vehicular networks and the stringent requirements for real-time data processing and decision-making. Much research is on using novel technologies such as machine learning, blockchain, and cryptography to secure V2X communications. Our survey highlights the security challenges faced by V2X communications and assesses current ML and blockchain-based solutions, revealing significant gaps and opportunities for improvement. Specifically, our survey focuses on studies integrating ML, blockchain, and multi-access edge computing (MEC) for low latency, robust, and dynamic security in V2X networks. Based on our findings, we outline a conceptual framework that synergizes ML, blockchain, and MEC to address some of the identified security challenges. This integrated framework demonstrates the potential for real-time anomaly detection, decentralized data sharing, and enhanced system scalability. The survey concludes by identifying future research directions and outlining the remaining challenges for securing V2X communications in the face of evolving threats. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Vehicular Sensing)
25 pages, 5978 KiB  
Review
Global Research Trends on the Role of Soil Erosion in Carbon Cycling Under Climate Change: A Bibliometric Analysis (1994–2024)
by Yongfu Li, Xiao Zhang, Yang Zhao, Xiaolin Yin, Xiong Wu and Liping Su
Atmosphere 2025, 16(8), 934; https://doi.org/10.3390/atmos16080934 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Against the backdrop of multifaceted strategies to combat climate change, understanding soil erosion’s role in carbon cycling is critical due to terrestrial carbon pool vulnerability. This study integrates bibliometric methods with visualization tools (CiteSpace, VOSviewer) to analyze 3880 Web of Science core publications [...] Read more.
Against the backdrop of multifaceted strategies to combat climate change, understanding soil erosion’s role in carbon cycling is critical due to terrestrial carbon pool vulnerability. This study integrates bibliometric methods with visualization tools (CiteSpace, VOSviewer) to analyze 3880 Web of Science core publications (1994–2024, inclusive), constructing knowledge graphs and forecasting trends. The results show exponential publication growth, shifting from slow development (1994–2011) to rapid expansion (2012–2024), aligning with international climate policy milestones. The Chinese Academy of Sciences led productivity (519 articles), while the US demonstrated major influence (H-index 117; 52,297 citations), creating a China–US bipolar research pattern. It was also found that Dutch journals dominate this research field. A keyword analysis revealed a shift from erosion-driven carbon transport to ecosystem service assessments. Emerging hotspots include microbial community regulation, climate–erosion feedback, and model–policy integration, though developing country collaboration remains limited. Future research should prioritize isotope tracing, multiscale modeling, and studies in ecologically vulnerable regions to enhance global soil carbon management. This study provides a novel analytical framework and forward-looking perspective for the soil erosion research on soil carbon cycling, serving as an extension of climate change mitigation strategies. Full article
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19 pages, 286 KiB  
Review
Does the Anatomical Type of the Plantaris Tendon Influence the Management of Midportion Achilles Tendinopathy?
by Łukasz Olewnik, Ingrid C. Landfald, Bartosz Gonera, Łukasz Gołek, Aleksandra Szabert-Kajkowska, Andrzej Borowski, Marek Drobniewski, Teresa Vázquez and Kacper Ruzik
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5478; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155478 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Midportion Achilles tendinopathy (Mid-AT) is a complex condition that may be exacerbated by anatomical variations of the plantaris tendon. Recent anatomical studies, particularly the classification proposed by Olewnik et al., have enhanced the understanding of plantaris–Achilles interactions and their clinical implications. Objective: [...] Read more.
Background: Midportion Achilles tendinopathy (Mid-AT) is a complex condition that may be exacerbated by anatomical variations of the plantaris tendon. Recent anatomical studies, particularly the classification proposed by Olewnik et al., have enhanced the understanding of plantaris–Achilles interactions and their clinical implications. Objective: This review aims to assess the anatomical types of the plantaris tendon, their imaging correlates, and the impact of the Olewnik classification on diagnosis, treatment planning, and surgical outcomes in patients with Mid-AT. Methods: We present an evidence-based analysis of the six anatomical types of the plantaris tendon and their relevance to Achilles tendinopathy, with emphasis on MRI and ultrasound (USG) evaluation. A diagnostic and therapeutic algorithm is proposed, and clinical outcomes of both conservative and operative management are compared across tendon types. Results: Types I and V were most strongly associated with symptomatic conflict and showed the highest benefit from surgical resection. Endoscopic approaches were effective in Types II and III, while Type IV typically responded to conservative treatment. Type VI, often misdiagnosed as tarsal tunnel syndrome, required combined neurolysis. The classification significantly improves surgical decision-making, reduces overtreatment, and enhances diagnostic precision. Conclusions: The Olewnik classification provides a reproducible, clinically relevant framework for individualized management of Mid-AT. Its integration into imaging protocols and treatment algorithms may improve therapeutic outcomes and guide future research in orthopaedic tendon pathology. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Orthopedics)
25 pages, 2418 KiB  
Review
Contactless Vital Sign Monitoring: A Review Towards Multi-Modal Multi-Task Approaches
by Ahmad Hassanpour and Bian Yang
Sensors 2025, 25(15), 4792; https://doi.org/10.3390/s25154792 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Contactless vital sign monitoring has emerged as a transformative healthcare technology, enabling the assessment of vital signs without physical contact with the human body. This review comprehensively reviews the rapidly evolving landscape of this field, with particular emphasis on multi-modal sensing approaches and [...] Read more.
Contactless vital sign monitoring has emerged as a transformative healthcare technology, enabling the assessment of vital signs without physical contact with the human body. This review comprehensively reviews the rapidly evolving landscape of this field, with particular emphasis on multi-modal sensing approaches and multi-task learning paradigms. We systematically categorize and analyze existing technologies based on sensing modalities (vision-based, radar-based, thermal imaging, and ambient sensing), integration strategies, and application domains. The paper examines how artificial intelligence has revolutionized this domain, transitioning from early single-modality, single-parameter approaches to sophisticated systems that combine complementary sensing technologies and simultaneously extract multiple vital sign parameters. We discuss the theoretical foundations and practical implementations of multi-modal fusion, analyzing signal-level, feature-level, decision-level, and deep learning approaches to sensor integration. Similarly, we explore multi-task learning frameworks that leverage the inherent relationships between vital sign parameters to enhance measurement accuracy and efficiency. The review also critically addresses persisting technical challenges, clinical limitations, and ethical considerations, including environmental robustness, cross-subject variability, sensor fusion complexities, and privacy concerns. Finally, we outline promising future directions, from emerging sensing technologies and advanced fusion architectures to novel application domains and privacy-preserving methodologies. This review provides a holistic perspective on contactless vital sign monitoring, serving as a reference for researchers and practitioners in this rapidly advancing field. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biomedical Sensors)
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23 pages, 7962 KiB  
Article
Predictive Analysis of Hydrological Variables in the Cahaba Watershed: Enhancing Forecasting Accuracy for Water Resource Management Using Time-Series and Machine Learning Models
by Sai Kumar Dasari, Pooja Preetha and Hari Manikanta Ghantasala
Earth 2025, 6(3), 89; https://doi.org/10.3390/earth6030089 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study presents a hybrid approach to hydrological forecasting by integrating the physically based Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model with Prophet time-series modeling and machine learning–based multi-output regression. Applied to the Cahaba watershed, the objective is to predict key environmental variables [...] Read more.
This study presents a hybrid approach to hydrological forecasting by integrating the physically based Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model with Prophet time-series modeling and machine learning–based multi-output regression. Applied to the Cahaba watershed, the objective is to predict key environmental variables (precipitation, evapotranspiration (ET), potential evapotranspiration (PET), and snowmelt) and their influence on hydrological responses (surface runoff, groundwater flow, soil water, sediment yield, and water yield) under present (2010–2022) and future (2030–2042) climate scenarios. Using SWAT outputs for calibration, the integrated SWAT-Prophet-ML model predicted ET and PET with RMSE values between 10 and 20 mm. Performance was lower for high-variability events such as precipitation (RMSE = 30–50 mm). Under current climate conditions, R2 values of 0.75 (water yield) and 0.70 (surface runoff) were achieved. Groundwater and sediment yields were underpredicted, particularly during peak years. The model’s limitations relate to its dependence on historical trends and its limited representation of physical processes, which constrain its performance under future climate scenarios. Suggested improvements include scenario-based training and integration of physical constraints. The approach offers a scalable, data-driven method for enhancing monthly water balance prediction and supports applications in watershed planning. Full article
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29 pages, 7960 KiB  
Article
Innovative Data Models: Transforming Material Process Design and Optimization
by Amir M. Horr, Matthias Hartmann and Fabio Haunreiter
Metals 2025, 15(8), 873; https://doi.org/10.3390/met15080873 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
As the use of data models and data science techniques in industrial processes grows exponentially, the question arises: to what extent can these techniques impact the future of manufacturing processes? This article examines the potential future impacts of these models based on an [...] Read more.
As the use of data models and data science techniques in industrial processes grows exponentially, the question arises: to what extent can these techniques impact the future of manufacturing processes? This article examines the potential future impacts of these models based on an assessment of existing trends and practices. The drive towards digital-oriented manufacturing and cyber-based process optimization and control has brought many opportunities and challenges. On one hand, issues of data acquisition, handling, and quality for proper database building have become important subjects. On the other hand, the reliable utilization of this available data for optimization and control has inspired much research. This research work discusses the fundamental question of how far these models can help design and/or improve existing processes, highlighting their limitations and challenges. Furthermore, it reviews state-of-the-art practices and their successes and failures in material process applications, including casting, extrusion, and additive manufacturing (AM), and presents some quantitative indications. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Computation and Simulation on Metals)
12 pages, 1209 KiB  
Article
Contribution to Morphometrics and Ecology of Snow Trout (Schizothorax eurycephalus) and Stone Loach (Triplophysa ferganaensis)
by Erkin Karimov, Otabek Omonov, Pieterjan Verhelst, Bakhtiyor K. Karimov, Martin Schletterer and Daniel S. Hayes
Fishes 2025, 10(8), 377; https://doi.org/10.3390/fishes10080377 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The mountainous rivers of Central Asia host diverse ichthyofauna threatened by increasing anthropogenic pressures, particularly water pollution, abstraction, and hydropower development. This study provides valuable morphometric and ecological data for Schizothorax eurycephalus (snow trout) and Triplophysa ferganaensis (stone loach) in the Shakhimardan River [...] Read more.
The mountainous rivers of Central Asia host diverse ichthyofauna threatened by increasing anthropogenic pressures, particularly water pollution, abstraction, and hydropower development. This study provides valuable morphometric and ecological data for Schizothorax eurycephalus (snow trout) and Triplophysa ferganaensis (stone loach) in the Shakhimardan River basin, Uzbekistan. S. eurycephalus exhibited positive allometric growth, while T. ferganaensis showed negative near-isometric growth. The mean Fulton’s Condition Factor was 1.0 for S. eurycephalus and 0.7 for T. ferganaensis, with site-specific variations. Strong correlations among morphometric parameters, particularly length–height relationships, support non-invasive monitoring techniques. Dietary analysis revealed S. eurycephalus was predominantly herbivorous, with around 70% algae consumption. Early sexual maturity was observed in S. eurycephalus males, whereas T. ferganaensis showed no clear maturity signs, but swollen bellies suggested ongoing or recent reproductive activity. These baseline morphometric and ecological data establish a solid foundation for future ecological assessments, conservation strategies, and the design and monitoring of mitigation measures to address anthropogenic impacts in this vulnerable region. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Biology and Ecology)
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10 pages, 903 KiB  
Article
Gender Differences in Visual Information Perception Ability: A Signal Detection Theory Approach
by Yejin Lee and Kwangtae Jung
Appl. Sci. 2025, 15(15), 8621; https://doi.org/10.3390/app15158621 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The accurate perception of visual stimuli in human–machine systems is crucial for improving system safety, usability, and task performance. The widespread adoption of digital technology has significantly increased the importance of visual interfaces and information. Therefore, it is essential to design visual interfaces [...] Read more.
The accurate perception of visual stimuli in human–machine systems is crucial for improving system safety, usability, and task performance. The widespread adoption of digital technology has significantly increased the importance of visual interfaces and information. Therefore, it is essential to design visual interfaces and information with user characteristics in mind to ensure accurate perception of visual information. This study employed the Cognitive Perceptual Assessment for Driving (CPAD) to evaluate and compare gender differences in the ability to perceive visual signals within complex visual stimuli. The experimental setup included a computer with CPAD installed, along with a touch monitor, mouse, joystick, and keyboard. The participants included 11 male and 20 female students, with an average age of 22 for males and 21 for females. Prior to the experiment, participants were instructed to determine whether a signal stimulus was present: if a square, presented as the signal, was included in the visual stimulus, they moved the joystick to the left; otherwise, they moved it to the right. Each participant performed a total of 40 trials. The entire experiment was recorded on video to measure overall response times. The experiment measured the number of correct detections of signal presence, response times, the number of misses (failing to detect the signal when present), and false alarms (detecting the signal when absent). The analysis of experimental data revealed no significant differences in perceptual ability or response times for visual stimuli between genders. However, males demonstrated slightly superior perceptual ability and marginally shorter response times compared to females. Analyses of sensitivity and response bias, based on signal detection theory, also indicated a slightly higher perceptual ability in males. In conclusion, although these differences were not statistically significant, males demonstrated a slightly better perception ability for visual stimuli. The findings of this study can inform the design of information, user interfaces, and visual displays in human–machine systems, particularly in light of the recent trend of increased female participation in the industrial sector. Future research will focus on diverse types of visual information to further validate these findings. Full article
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13 pages, 1520 KiB  
Article
Designing a Patient Outcome Clinical Assessment Tool for Modified Rankin Scale: “You Feel the Same Way Too”
by Laura London and Noreen Kamal
Informatics 2025, 12(3), 78; https://doi.org/10.3390/informatics12030078 (registering DOI) - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is a widely used outcome measure for assessing disability in stroke care; however, its administration is often affected by subjectivity and variability, leading to poor inter-rater reliability and inconsistent scoring. Originally designed for hospital discharge evaluations, the mRS [...] Read more.
The modified Rankin Scale (mRS) is a widely used outcome measure for assessing disability in stroke care; however, its administration is often affected by subjectivity and variability, leading to poor inter-rater reliability and inconsistent scoring. Originally designed for hospital discharge evaluations, the mRS has evolved into an outcome tool for disability assessment and clinical decision-making. Inconsistencies persist due to a lack of standardization and cognitive biases during its use. This paper presents design principles for creating a standardized clinical assessment tool (CAT) for the mRS, grounded in human–computer interaction (HCI) and cognitive engineering principles. Design principles were informed in part by an anonymous online survey conducted with clinicians across Canada to gain insights into current administration practices, opinions, and challenges of the mRS. The proposed design principles aim to reduce cognitive load, improve inter-rater reliability, and streamline the administration process of the mRS. By focusing on usability and standardization, the design principles seek to enhance scoring consistency and improve the overall reliability of clinical outcomes in stroke care and research. Developing a standardized CAT for the mRS represents a significant step toward improving the accuracy and consistency of stroke disability assessments. Future work will focus on real-world validation with healthcare stakeholders and exploring self-completed mRS assessments to further refine the tool. Full article
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15 pages, 9314 KiB  
Article
Genome-Wide Characterization of the SnRK Gene Family in Taxus and Homologous Validation of TaSnRK1.2 as a Central Regulator in Stress-Responsive Transcriptional Networks
by Pengjun Lu, Jianqiu Ji, Fangjuan Fan, Tao Liu, Zhenting Shi, Wentao Li and Chongbo Sun
Plants 2025, 14(15), 2410; https://doi.org/10.3390/plants14152410 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
SnRK kinases, central regulators of plant stress response, remain uncharacterized in Taxus—an ancient gymnosperm valued for paclitaxel production. This study aimed to identify the Taxus SnRK family and elucidate its functional roles. Specifically, we identified SnRK genes through genomic analysis and assessed [...] Read more.
SnRK kinases, central regulators of plant stress response, remain uncharacterized in Taxus—an ancient gymnosperm valued for paclitaxel production. This study aimed to identify the Taxus SnRK family and elucidate its functional roles. Specifically, we identified SnRK genes through genomic analysis and assessed tissue-specific expression via transcriptomics, while regulatory networks were deciphered using WGCNA. To overcome experimental constraints, a PEG-mediated protoplast transient expression system was developed using calli, followed by dual-luciferase assays. Consequently, 19 SnRK genes (2 SnRK1, 4 SnRK2, 13 SnRK3) were identified, with tissue-specific expression revealing TaSnRK1.2 upregulation under methyl jasmonate (MeJA) and in stress-resilient tissues (bark/root). Subsequently, WGCNA uncovered a bark/root-specific module containing TaSnRK1.2 with predicted TF interactions (TaGRAS/TaERF). Critically, homologous dual-luciferase assays demonstrated TaSnRK1.2 activates TaGRAS and TaERF promoters (4.34-fold and 3.11-fold induction, respectively). This study establishes the Taxus SnRK family and identifies TaSnRK1.2 as a hub integrating stress signals (e.g., MeJA) to modulate downstream TF networks, while the novel protoplast system enables future functional studies in this medicinal plant. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell Physiology and Stress Adaptation of Crops)
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19 pages, 3321 KiB  
Article
Assessing the Biodegradation Characteristics of Poly(Butylene Succinate) and Poly(Lactic Acid) Formulations Under Controlled Composting Conditions
by Pavlo Lyshtva, Viktoria Voronova, Argo Kuusik and Yaroslav Kobets
AppliedChem 2025, 5(3), 17; https://doi.org/10.3390/appliedchem5030017 - 4 Aug 2025
Abstract
Biopolymers and bio-based plastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), are recognized as environmentally friendly materials and are widely used, especially in the packaging industry. The purpose of this study was to assess the degradation of PLA- and PBS-based formulations [...] Read more.
Biopolymers and bio-based plastics, such as polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene succinate (PBS), are recognized as environmentally friendly materials and are widely used, especially in the packaging industry. The purpose of this study was to assess the degradation of PLA- and PBS-based formulations in the forms of granules and films under controlled composting conditions at a laboratory scale. Biodegradation tests of bio-based materials were conducted under controlled aerobic conditions, following the standard EVS-EN ISO 14855-1:2012. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) was performed using a high-resolution Zeiss Ultra 55 scanning electron microscope to analyze the samples. After the six-month laboratory-scale composting experiment, it was observed that the PLA-based materials degraded by 47.46–98.34%, while the PBS-based materials exhibited a final degradation degree of 34.15–80.36%. Additionally, the PLA-based compounds displayed a variable total organic carbon (TOC) content ranging from 38% to 56%. In contrast, the PBS-based compounds exhibited a more consistent TOC content, with a narrow range from 53% to 54%. These findings demonstrate that bioplastics can contribute to reducing plastic waste through controlled composting, but their degradation efficiency depends on the material composition and environmental conditions. Future efforts should optimize bioplastic formulations and composting systems while developing supportive policies for wider adoption. Full article
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