Search Results (8,423)

The redox behavior of nickel complexes with sulfur-containing ligands remains of considerable interest due to their significant value in coordination chemistry, catalysis, and bioorganic modeling. In this context, it is important to investigate how aqueous media and acid–base equilibria influence the stability and transformation pathways of such complexes. In this work, the electrochemical behavior of nickel complexes with phosphorylated dithiocarbamate was studied using cyclic voltammetry at various scan rates and pH values. Compared to similar systems in organic solvents, the complexes exhibited additional oxidation and reduction signals, indicating coupled chemical steps. The pH dependence of these peaks confirmed the role of hydroxo groups in the oxidation processes. Varying the scan rate revealed competition between ligand exchange pathways. At low and moderate scan rates, tris-dithiocarbamate nickel(III/IV) complexes are formed, whereas at higher scan rates, hydroxo-containing compounds make a greater contribution. Based on the experimental results and standard redox potentials derived from quantum chemical calculation data, a general scheme for the resulting electrochemical processes was proposed. The results demonstrate the key role of aqueous media and pH in regulating the redox process of nickel complexes with phosphorylated dithiocarbamate. Full article

The growing demand for sustainable energy carriers has intensified interest in hydrogen production from renewable resources and waste-derived substrates. In this context, microbial electrolysis cells (MECs) have emerged as a promising technology for the simultaneous treatment of organic waste and biohydrogen generation. This review provides an overview of recent advances in MEC systems, focusing on reactor configurations, performance indicators such as hydrogen production rate, coulombic efficiency, and chemical oxygen demand removal. Attention is given to the valorization of real waste streams, including municipal and agro-industrial effluents, highlighting the differences between laboratory- and pilot-scale applications. While numerous studies have demonstrated the technical feasibility of MECs, several bottlenecks still limit their large-scale implementation, including challenges associated with the use of complex substrates. In particular, untreated wastewater often leads to reduced process efficiency due to its variable composition and the occurrence of competing microbial pathways. To overcome these limitations, integrated approaches are also discussed, with emphasis on the coupling of dark fermentation, capable of enhancing substrate biodegradability through the production of volatile fatty acids, with MEC systems. Overall, MEC technology represents a promising pathway for sustainable hydrogen production within circular waste management frameworks, although further advancements are required to enable its practical application. Full article

Wire-arc directed energy deposition (arc-DED) of maraging 250 (M250) steel is of growing interest for aerospace, tooling, and defense applications, yet systematic process characterization data remain limited. This study presents a mixed quantitative–qualitative factorial comparison of three Fronius synergic transfer modes, GMAW-CMT-Mix, GMAW-CMT-Universal, and GMAW-Pulsed-Arc, for single-bead M250 deposition across wire feed speeds of 4.45 to 8.26 m/min and travel speeds of 0.3 to 1.5 m/min. Bead geometry and process behavior are characterized using non-contact optical profilometry and destructive methods (i.e., metallographic sectioning, optical microscopy, and Vickers microhardness). The material feed rate ratio, R_wt, is introduced as a unifying process descriptor; heat input and cross-sectional area scale linearly with R_wt, while travel speed primarily governs bead height and wire feed speed primarily governs bead width. At the highest travel speed tested, GMAW-CMT-Mix and GMAW-Pulsed-Arc exhibit bead humping, rendering those conditions unsuitable, while GMAW-CMT-Universal maintains stable deposition with consistent dilution and the lowest heat input at equivalent R_wt. GMAW-CMT-Mix yielded the highest dilution and hardness. Linear regression of process responses against R_wt gives $R^2$ exceeding 0.83 for both height and width across all modes. These results establish a characterization baseline supporting future multi-layer studies. Full article

Background/Objectives: Nutrition plays a core role in chronic disease management, and there is growing interest in the health impact of plant-based diets (PBDs) in people with overweight or obesity. We conducted this systematic review and meta-analysis to summarize the evidence on the health effect of PBDs compared to omnivorous diets in overweight or obese individuals. Methods: We searched the databases Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, ClinicalTrials.gov and WHO International Clinical Trials Registry Platform from inception to 3 January 2024. Two review authors independently screened studies for eligibility, extracted data, evaluated the risk of bias, and rated the certainty of the evidence using GRADE. This study is registered with PROSPERO, CRD42021225525. We used random-effects meta-analysis to analyze data. Results: Of 2664 records identified, 10 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and six ongoing studies met the inclusion criteria. The available evidence suggests little to no difference between plant-based and omnivorous diets for body weight, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, serum glucose, serum insulin, insulin sensitivity, total cholesterol, triglyceride, HDL cholesterol and body fat mass. Plant-based diets may slightly reduce LDL cholesterol. They may also reduce BMI and HbA1c, although the certainty of the evidence is very low. Longer-duration dietary interventions (14 weeks or more) showed greater improvements in BMI, LDL cholesterol and HbA1c. Conclusions: Plant-based diets may represent a dietary option for people with overweight or obesity and may support modest improvements in selected cardiometabolic outcomes, although the available evidence is limited and uncertain. Most outcomes showed little or no difference between PBDs and comparison diets, while the observed effects on BMI and HbA1c were supported by very low certainty evidence. Full article

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is a highly specialized skin cancer procedure that combines complete microscopic margin assessment with maximal preservation of uninvolved tissue. The technique is based on staged excision of the tumor with systematic horizontal sectioning and real-time examination of the entire peripheral and deep surgical margins, allowing further tissue removal only in areas where residual tumor is identified. Its unique strength lies in the ability to detect subclinical tumor extensions that may be missed by conventional excision and standard vertical sectioning, thereby improving local control while minimizing unnecessary tissue sacrifice. Since its introduction in the 1930s by Frederic E. Mohs, the technique has evolved into a cornerstone of modern dermato-oncology, particularly for tumors arising in anatomically critical areas, recurrent neoplasms, and histologically aggressive malignancies. MMS is now widely regarded as the treatment of choice for high-risk basal cell carcinoma and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma because of its superior cure rates and tissue-sparing approach. Beyond its oncologic advantages, MMS allows precise clinicopathologic correlation and immediate reconstruction tailored to the final defect, contributing to favorable functional and cosmetic outcomes. As experience with the technique has expanded, so too has interest in adjunctive tools for preoperative tumor delineation and margin control, further refining patient selection and surgical accuracy. Overall, MMS represents an essential advance over conventional excision for selected cutaneous malignancies, offering an optimal balance between radical tumor clearance and preservation of normal tissue. Full article

To promote the sustainable development of agriculture and reduce resource waste, this paper investigates sustainable financing strategies for a green fresh agri-food supply chain. We employ a purely theoretical Stackelberg game model and numerical simulations based on hypothetical parameters to develop three financing models for a supply chain consisting of one capital-constrained farmer and one retailer, considering consumers’ dual sensitivity to product freshness and greenness. Analytical and numerical results reveal that: (1) with low financing rates, internal financing effectively alleviates under investment in preservation, leading to higher wholesale/retail prices. In a green-sensitive market, the resulting price premium compensates for cost increases, avoiding the “low quality–low price” trap under external financing. (2) The retailer’s total profit decreases as the internal financing rate rises; higher interest income cannot offset demand loss caused by reduced preservation effort. Thus, a low- or zero-interest strategy maximizes the retailer’s operational profit. (3) As consumer sensitivity to freshness and greenness increases, profit growth under internal financing displays convexity. However, under extremely high freshness sensitivity, external financing yields stronger marginal incentives, suggesting that retailers should adjust profit allocation in the high-end market. The findings provide theoretical guidance for financing mode selection and practical insights for promoting green agricultural sustainable development. Full article

Background: 5-(3′,4′-Dihydroxyphenyl)-γ-valerolactone (DHPV) is a postbiotic gut microbiota-derived flavanol metabolite with reported anti-inflammatory activity. Despite growing interest in its potential dermatological applications, its pharmaceutical properties and suitability for topical delivery have not been systematically investigated. This study aimed to perform the first comprehensive preformulation and formulation-oriented evaluation of DHPV and to develop stable topical ointment formulations suitable for further dermatological research. Methods: The physicochemical properties of DHPV were characterized using powder X-ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), quantitative solubility assessment, and excipient compatibility studies. Based on the obtained preformulation data, two anhydrous ointment formulations containing DHPV were developed. The formulations were evaluated for homogeneity, rheological behavior, chemical stability under accelerated storage conditions, and in vitro drug release performance. Results: DHPV was identified as a crystalline compound with heterogeneous particle morphology and limited aqueous solubility. Quantitative solubility studies demonstrated the highest solubility in PEG 300 and glycol-based solvents. Compatibility testing revealed increased impurity formation in hydrophilic environments, whereas lipophilic excipients provided improved chemical stability. Both ointment formulations exhibited acceptable physical characteristics and maintained DHPV stability throughout accelerated storage. However, marked differences in release behavior were observed. The lipid–wax formulation showed significantly higher release rates, lower variability, and more reproducible release profiles than the petrolatum-based reference formulation, indicating more efficient diffusion of DHPV from the semisolid matrix. Conclusions: The physicochemical characteristics of DHPV strongly influence formulation design and performance. Anhydrous lipid-based systems provide a favorable environment for maintaining DHPV stability, while formulation composition significantly affects drug release. The developed lipid–wax formulation represents a promising platform for future skin permeation, pharmacodynamic, and efficacy studies. Full article

(1) Background: This systematic literature review (SLR) and meta-analysis evaluated the comparative clinical effectiveness and safety of transarterial radioembolization (TARE) versus transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). (2) Methods: Eligible studies were identified through an SLR following PRISMA guidelines using a predefined PICOS framework. PubMed and Embase were searched (2015–2025) for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and observational studies comparing TARE and TACE. Meta-analyses were conducted for outcomes, including overall survival (OS), objective response rate (ORR), progression-free survival (PFS), and adverse events (AEs). Analyses were conducted for the overall population and predefined subgroups of interest. (3) Results: Among 1464 studies identified through database searches, 25 studies were selected for meta-analysis comprising 8146 patients with HCC. No significant difference was observed between TARE and TACE in 14 studies evaluating OS (HR: 0.99; 95% CI 0.70–1.39) or 13 studies evaluating ORR (RR: 0.94; 95% CI 0.84–1.05). Four studies reporting meta-analyzable PFS outcomes numerically favored TARE, although the difference was not statistically significant (HR: 0.54; 95% CI 0.29–1.01). Rates of any-grade and grade ≥3 AEs were comparable between the two arms. The results from subgroup analyses remained consistent with the overall findings. (4) Conclusions: TARE and TACE demonstrate comparable clinical outcomes in patients with HCC. Additional studies within specific, clinically meaningful subgroups of HCC patients will be valuable to further clarify the comparative effectiveness and safety of TARE and TACE in these populations. Full article

This study empirically aims to analyze the impact of primary monetary policy stance and transmission mechanisms of the European Central Bank (ECB)—such as the total assets of the ECB, long-term interest rate based on the government bond yields, and the EURUSD exchange rate—on major volatile cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, as well as the leading stablecoin Tether. To this end, the study employs the linear Autoregressive Distributed Lag (ARDL) and the Bootstrap ARDL (BA-ARDL) procedures, robust approaches with limited data in time series analysis. The dataset consists of monthly data over the period from January 2019 to December 2025. We summarize the novel and robust primary empirical results of our study as follows: First, (i) it is revealed that the ECB’s balance sheet expansion has encouraged Bitcoin and Ethereum, yet has also, to a limited extent, suppressed Tether. Secondly, (ii) while the ECB’s long-term interest rate negatively impacts the prices of Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Tether, the negative impact on Tether is relatively weaker. Finally, (iii) the EURUSD exchange rate positively affects Ethereum, while its effect on Bitcoin is not statistically significant. On the other hand, at a 10% significance level, EURUSD has a weak negative effect on Tether. In conclusion, the empirical evidence demonstrates that the primary monetary policy stance and transmission mechanisms of the ECB influence the leading digital assets in distinct ways. Taking our findings into account is crucial for designing the digital euro in terms of financial stability and regulatory framework. Finally, we offer sound policy implications for the ECB based on empirical findings. Full article

Patients with diabetes and/or peripheral artery disease (PAD) are at risk for lower limb amputation and a subsequently higher mortality risk. Peer support interventions have been shown to increase diabetes self-management and glycemic control. This scoping review aims to synthesize the current literature on peer support interventions in reducing lower limb amputations. A PubMed search was conducted in June of 2023, excluding publications prior to 2000, focusing on two themes: (1) peer support and (2) the patient population of interest (i.e., individuals with diabetic foot disease and/or PAD). Studies were included if they addressed the population of interest, involved a peer support intervention to improve lower extremity health, and had outcomes pertaining to the health of the lower extremities or programmatic metrics such as participant satisfaction or program adherence. Out of 1730 publications initially identified, six met the inclusion criteria. These six studies were categorized as group foot care education studies (n = 4) or group cognitive behavioral studies (n = 2). The group foot care education studies showed mixed results, which varied from no effect to significant improvements in foot care, self-management, and complications. There was a trend of improvement in self-management behaviors and physical activity in cognitive behavioral interventions. Despite showing promise in other settings, there have been limited investigations of peer support interventions to improve lower extremity outcomes and avert amputations in persons with diabetes and/or PAD. Further studies are required to conclusively determine the efficacy of peer support interventions to reduce lower extremity amputation rates. Full article

Recent advancements in heterogeneous catalysis have increased the interest in the synthesis of metal-free polymer-based catalysts. This work presents a novel approach for the solvent- and additive-free synthesis of a nitrogen-rich catalyst. Our unique procedure yields a non-porous organic polymer (NPOP) with a wide range of functional groups on the surface, attributed to the incomplete polymerization inherent to our solvent-free method. Detailed analysis revealed significant differences between NPOP and its Covalent Organic Framework counterpart. Remarkably, the absence of a high surface area did not hinder the efficiency of NPOP as a catalyst for the CO₂ cycloaddition. The performance of NPOP exceeded that of its COF counterpart, with a conversion rate of 99% for NPOP and 35% for the COF. An observation attributed to the abundance of nitrogen functional groups on the surface of NPOP. A combination of characterizations and density functional theory (DFT) calculations was employed to thoroughly understand the working mechanism of NPOP. The imines and secondary amines on the surface function as the active sites for the ring-opening of epichlorohydrin. This study supports existing theories that N atoms can serve as nucleophiles by donating their free electron pairs. Furthermore, the distinctive synthesis procedure reported here can serve as inspiration for further design of polymer-based catalysts. Full article

COVID-19, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, has become a global public health crisis with diverse clinical manifestations affecting multiple organ systems, including the integumentary system. One notable cutaneous manifestation, referred to as “COVID toes,” involves the development of pernio-like chilblains, characterized by red-to-violet macules, plaques, or nodules, primarily on toes and fingers. This characteristic clinical feature gained significant attention due to its apparent association with COVID-19, especially during the early stages of the pandemic when individuals with mild or asymptomatic cases exhibited these symptoms. Concurrently, digital platforms such as Google Trends have emerged as tools for tracking public interest in health-related topics, offering insights into real-time patterns of disease awareness. Previous research has demonstrated that Google Trends data may correlate with the incidence of infectious diseases, suggesting that search interest can be a proxy for disease outbreaks. In this study, we sought to explore the potential relationship between public interest in COVID toes, as reflected in Google Trends, and the incidence and mortality rates of COVID-19. Specifically, we examined whether peaks in search interest for “COVID toes” corresponded with surges in COVID-19 cases and deaths. By analyzing trends in search data, we aimed to assess the utility of digital platforms as an epidemiological tool for monitoring disease progression and public awareness. Our findings provide insights into the potential role of digital search data in forecasting outbreaks and highlight the interplay between public perception and the clinical burden of COVID-19, emphasizing the importance of real-time data in public health surveillance and response. Full article

Human papillomavirus (HPV) has become a leading cause of oropharyngeal cancers, alongside well-known risk factors such as tobacco and alcohol use. Currently, HPV-positive oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ OPSCC) has increased significantly in developed countries, with HPV-16 being the most common high-risk subtype. Clinically, HPV+ OPSCC shows clear differences in prognosis compared to HPV-negative tumors, particularly regarding survival rates and treatment responses. Patients with HPV+ OPSCC tend to have notably better survival outcomes and a more favorable outlook. Strong evidence indicates that HPV-related oropharyngeal cancers represent a distinct epidemiological, clinical, and molecular group, setting them apart from non-HPV-related cancers. As a result, treatment strategies for these subtypes should follow specific clinical protocols to optimize outcomes. Additionally, the viral oncoproteins E6 and E7, which systematically disrupt host tumor-suppressor networks, provide strong reasons for targeted phytotherapeutic interventions. Therefore, there is increasing interest in exploring plant bioactive compounds with promising anti-HPV and anticancer effects that target key oncogenic pathways. This review aims to compile the latest data on bioactive phytochemicals with mechanistic evidence in HPV+ OPSCC, highlight their molecular interactions across oncogenic signaling pathways, and discuss evidence-based findings focusing on research published from 2000 to 2025. Full article

This study set out to investigate the interactions between business cycles, financial cycles and monetary policy in South Africa. Explicitly, the study aims to examine the role of financial factors in business cycle models and the possibility of a unified macroeconomic framework in South Africa. Further, the study assesses the effects of demand shocks, supply shocks, interest rate shocks, and financial shocks on macroeconomic fluctuations. The study applied an analytical approach integrating the Generalised Method of Moments and System Generalised Method of Moments with a Structural New Keynesian Dynamic Stochastic General Equilibrium framework. Accordingly, it was concluded that the financial cycle plays a significant role in business cycle models and is a main driver of macroeconomic fluctuations in South Africa. Further, a unified macroeconomic framework for monetary policy analysis that links the financial system to the real economy in South Africa possibly exists. This study contributes to the South African Reserve Bank’s efforts by deepening understanding of the interactions between the financial system and the real economy and their implications for monetary policy in South Africa. By comparing the standard Taylor rule with a finance-augmented Taylor rule in a DSGE framework, the study helps answer the question of whether financial stability should be adopted as a second objective of monetary policy. Full article

Introduction: The Atlantic bluefin tuna Thunnus thynnus (ABFT) is a large pelagic apex predator with adaptations for a life of ceaseless swimming during long-distance oceanic migrations. The environmental physiology and energetics of tunas have interested researchers for many decades, but they are notoriously challenging to study because they are so difficult to keep in captivity. Adult ABFT are, however, now fattened in cages at various sites in the Mediterranean, while juveniles are reared from hatching every year at the Unique Scientific and Technological Infrastructure for ABFT aquaculture (ICAR-IEO), near Cartagena in Spain. These facilities provide access to animals, but the fish remain very problematic to study because of their highly active but physiologically delicate nature and, for adults, their very large sizes. Objective: To study the in vivo physiology and behaviour of ABFT. Methodology: We used heart rate biologging and high residency acoustic tracking to follow cardiac and swimming activity over a year in n = 24 adult ABFT (mass range 25 to 200 kg) held in a cage off the coast of Malta (Malta Fish Farming). We then performed swim tunnel respirometry on young of the year juveniles (500g) at ICRA-IEO, but subsequently took a ‘hands-off’ approach, using video analyses and group respirometry on free-swimming animals. Results: The descriptive approach on the caged adults provided understanding of how seasonal water temperatures (15 to 28 °C) affect tuna physiology and behaviour. The swimming respirometry on juveniles revealed that their performance was constrained by confinement in the tunnel, compared to when they were swimming at their spontaneous preferred speed in their rearing tank. Video analyses provided insights into the effects of size (25 to 200 cm bodylength) on spontaneous swimming speeds and coupled with tank respirometry, revealed how progressive hypoxia affects the metabolic rate and schooling behaviour of juveniles. Conclusions: These opportunistic and disparate pieces of information are nonetheless valuable for such a fascinating but data-deficient species, and can be useful in mechanistic models for management of an extremely valuable fishery in a context of global change. Full article