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16 pages, 1466 KiB  
Article
A Discrete Element Model for Characterizing Soil-Cotton Seeding Equipment Interactions Using the JKR and Bonding Contact Models
by Xuyang Ran, Long Wang, Jianfei Xing, Lu Shi, Dewei Wang, Wensong Guo and Xufeng Wang
Agriculture 2025, 15(15), 1693; https://doi.org/10.3390/agriculture15151693 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Due to the increasing demand for agricultural water, the water availability for winter and spring irrigation of cotton fields has decreased. Consequently, dry seeding followed by irrigation (DSSI) has become a widespread cotton cultivation technique in Xinjiang. This study focused on the interaction [...] Read more.
Due to the increasing demand for agricultural water, the water availability for winter and spring irrigation of cotton fields has decreased. Consequently, dry seeding followed by irrigation (DSSI) has become a widespread cotton cultivation technique in Xinjiang. This study focused on the interaction between soil particles and cotton seeding equipment under DSSI in Xinjiang. The discrete element method (DEM) simulation framework was employed to compare the performance of the Johnson-Kendall-Roberts (JKR) model and Bonding model in simulating contact between soil particles. The models’ ability to simulate the angle of repose was investigated, and shear tests were conducted. The simulation results showed that both models had comparable repose angles, with relative errors of 0.59% for the JKR model and 0.36% for the contact model. However, the contact model demonstrated superior predictive accuracy in simulating direct shear test results, predicting an internal friction angle of 35.8°, with a relative error of 5.8% compared to experimental measurements. In contrast, the JKR model exhibited a larger error. The Bonding model provides a more accurate description of soil particle contact. Subsoiler penetration tests showed that the maximum penetration force was 467.2 N, closely matching the simulation result of 485.3 N, which validates the reliability of the model parameters. The proposed soil simulation framework and calibrated parameters accurately represented soil mechanical properties, providing a robust basis for discrete element modeling and structural optimization of soil-tool interactions in cotton field tillage machinery. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Agricultural Technology)
28 pages, 1146 KiB  
Article
Uncovering Hidden Risks: Non-Targeted Screening and Health Risk Assessment of Aromatic Compounds in Summer Metro Carriages
by Han Wang, Guangming Li, Cuifen Dong, Youyan Chi, Kwok Wai Tham, Mengsi Deng and Chunhui Li
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2761; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152761 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Metro carriages, as enclosed transport microenvironments, have been understudied regarding pollution characteristics and health risks from ACs, especially during high-temperature summers that amplify exposure. This study applied NTS techniques for the first time across three major Chengdu metro lines, systematically identifying sixteen ACs, [...] Read more.
Metro carriages, as enclosed transport microenvironments, have been understudied regarding pollution characteristics and health risks from ACs, especially during high-temperature summers that amplify exposure. This study applied NTS techniques for the first time across three major Chengdu metro lines, systematically identifying sixteen ACs, including hazardous species such as acetophenone, benzonitrile, and benzoic acid that are often overlooked in conventional BTEX-focused monitoring. The TAC concentration reached 41.40 ± 5.20 µg/m3, with half of the compounds exhibiting significant increases during peak commuting periods. Source apportionment using diagnostic ratios and PMF identified five major contributors: carriage material emissions (36.62%), human sources (22.50%), traffic exhaust infiltration (16.67%), organic solvents (16.55%), and industrial emissions (7.66%). Although both non-cancer (HI) and cancer (TCR) risks for all population groups were below international thresholds, summer tourists experienced higher exposure than daily commuters. Notably, child tourists showed the greatest vulnerability, with a TCR of 5.83 × 10−7, far exceeding that of commuting children (1.88 × 10−7). Benzene was the dominant contributor, accounting for over 50% of HI and 70% of TCR. This study presents the first integrated NTS and quantitative risk assessment to characterise ACs in summer metro environments, revealing a broader range of hazardous compounds beyond BTEX. It quantifies population-specific risks, highlights children’s heightened vulnerability. The findings fill critical gaps in ACs exposure and provide a scientific basis for improved air quality management and pollution mitigation strategies in urban rail transit systems. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Building Energy, Physics, Environment, and Systems)
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14 pages, 2709 KiB  
Article
Metagenomic Analysis of the Skin Microbiota of Brazilian Women: How to Develop Anti-Aging Cosmetics Based on This Knowledge?
by Raquel Allen Garcia Barbeto Siqueira, Ana Luiza Viana Pequeno, Yasmin Rosa Santos, Romualdo Morandi-Filho, Alexandra Lan, Edileia Bagatin, Vânia Rodrigues Leite-Silva, Newton Andreo-Filho and Patricia Santos Lopes
Cosmetics 2025, 12(4), 165; https://doi.org/10.3390/cosmetics12040165 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Metagenomic studies have provided deeper insights into the complex interactions between the skin and its microbiota. However, limited research has been conducted on the skin microbiota of Brazilian women. Given that Brazil ranks as the fourth-largest consumer of cosmetics worldwide, the development of [...] Read more.
Metagenomic studies have provided deeper insights into the complex interactions between the skin and its microbiota. However, limited research has been conducted on the skin microbiota of Brazilian women. Given that Brazil ranks as the fourth-largest consumer of cosmetics worldwide, the development of new tools to analyze skin microbiota is crucial for formulating cosmetic products that promote a healthy microbiome. Skin samples were analyzed using the Illumina platform. Biometrology assessments were applied. The results showed pH variations were more pronounced in the older age group, along with higher transepidermal water loss values. Metagenomic analysis showed a predominance of Actinobacteria (83%), followed by Proteobacteria (7%), Firmicutes (9%) and Bacteroidetes (1%). In the older group (36–45 years old), an increase in Actinobacteria (87%) was observed and a decrease in Proteobacteria (6%). Moreover, the results differ from the international literature, since an increase in proteobacteria (13.9%) and a decrease in actinobacteria (46.7%) were observe in aged skin. The most abundant genus identified was Propionibacterium (84%), being the dominant species. Interestingly, previous studies have suggested a decline in Cutibacterium abundance with aging; although there is no significant difference, it is possible to observe an increasing trend in this genus in older skin. These studies can clarify many points about the skin microbiota of Brazilian women, and these findings could lead to the development of new cosmetics based on knowledge of the skin microbiome. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers in Cosmetics in 2025)
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17 pages, 451 KiB  
Article
Which Standards to Follow? The Plurality of Conventions of French Principals Within the School Organization
by Romuald Normand
Educ. Sci. 2025, 15(8), 998; https://doi.org/10.3390/educsci15080998 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This study examines the moral agency of French secondary school headteachers through the lens of the theory of conventions. Using qualitative data from interviews with fifteen headteachers involved in professional development, this study explores how these leaders justify their practices within a centralized, [...] Read more.
This study examines the moral agency of French secondary school headteachers through the lens of the theory of conventions. Using qualitative data from interviews with fifteen headteachers involved in professional development, this study explores how these leaders justify their practices within a centralized, bureaucratic, and hierarchical education system. It identifies a variety of conventions—civic, domestic, industrial, project, market, inspired, and fame—that headteachers draw on to navigate institutional constraints, manage professional relationships, and foster pedagogical and organizational change. Particular attention is given to how civic and domestic conventions shape leadership discourse and practices, especially regarding trust building, decision making, and reform implementation. We also compare the French context with international examples from the International Successful School Principalship Project (ISSPP), focusing on Nordic countries, where leadership emphasizes democratic participation, professional trust, and shared responsibility. This study underscores the uniqueness of the French leadership model, which resists managerial and market logics while remaining rooted in republican and egalitarian ideals. It concludes by advocating for a more context-aware, ethically grounded, and dialogical approach to school leadership. Full article
13 pages, 1028 KiB  
Article
Survival and Prognostic Factors in Unresectable Head and Neck Cancer Patients
by Natsuki Oishi, Sara Orozco-Núñez, José Ramón Alba-García, Mar Gimeno-Coret and Enrique Zapater
J. Clin. Med. 2025, 14(15), 5517; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm14155517 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: This single-cohort follow-up study describes the median overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) due to invasion of vital structures, which is under-represented in the current literature. Secondarily, subgroups were evaluated according to the type [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: This single-cohort follow-up study describes the median overall survival (OS) in patients with unresectable head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) due to invasion of vital structures, which is under-represented in the current literature. Secondarily, subgroups were evaluated according to the type of presentation, in order to identify clinical characteristics and contribute to developing an appropriate treatment plan and managing patient’s expectations. Methods: This single-cohort observational study analysed the OS of 39 patients from the Otolaryngology Department with advanced-stage head and neck cancer with invasion of vital anatomical structures considered ineligible for surgical treatment. Secondarily, subgroups were evaluated according to type of presentation and various clinical characteristics. Results: A total of 39 patients radiologically classified as having unresectable HNSCC (i.e., unsuitable for surgical resection), with a mean age of 66.87 years, were included during a 24-month follow-up. By the end of the study, 56.4% of the patients had died. The median OS was 16.09 months. Statistically significant differences were observed when comparing human papilloma virus (HPV)-positive and -negative status and when comparing initial and recurrent tumours. Conclusions: The invasion of anatomical structures such as the skull base, internal carotid artery, and prevertebral space was associated with a marked decrease in survival, with an OS time of 16 months. This study provides valuable evidence in patients with unresectable HNSCC, highlighting tumour recurrence and HPV-negative status as important indicators of poor prognosis. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Otolaryngology)
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14 pages, 330 KiB  
Article
Sharp Bounds on Hankel Determinants for Starlike Functions Defined by Symmetry with Respect to Symmetric Domains
by Alina Alb Lupaş, Adel Salim Tayyah and Janusz Sokół
Symmetry 2025, 17(8), 1244; https://doi.org/10.3390/sym17081244 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
This work investigates the behavior of the coefficients of analytic functions within certain subclasses characterized by inherent symmetric structures. By leveraging deep connections with functions exhibiting positive real part properties, the approach introduces a modern analytical framework that links the studied coefficients to [...] Read more.
This work investigates the behavior of the coefficients of analytic functions within certain subclasses characterized by inherent symmetric structures. By leveraging deep connections with functions exhibiting positive real part properties, the approach introduces a modern analytical framework that links the studied coefficients to those of auxiliary functions with regulated behavior. This connection allows for the derivation of sharp estimates and facilitates computational treatment. The proposed method builds upon certain classical and modern coefficient inequalities. The study focuses on obtaining precise bounds for specific determinant expressions associated with initial, inverse, and inverse logarithmic coefficients, all within a subclass of starlike functions exhibiting internal symmetry aligned with a recently introduced canonical structure. This symmetric perspective reveals how geometric properties can lead to refined quantitative outcomes that enhance contemporary analytic theory. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Functional Equations and Inequalities: Topics and Applications)
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40 pages, 2757 KiB  
Article
Water User Associations in Drained and Irrigated Areas for More Sustainable Land and Water Management: Experiences from Poland and Ukraine
by Roman Kuryltsiv, Małgorzata Stańczuk-Gałwiaczek and Robert Łuczyński
Sustainability 2025, 17(15), 7100; https://doi.org/10.3390/su17157100 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The level of participation and performance of water user associations (WUAs) in drained and irrigated areas is influenced by many factors. This paper aims to identify the main challenges to the functioning and performance of these associations in Poland and Ukraine using the [...] Read more.
The level of participation and performance of water user associations (WUAs) in drained and irrigated areas is influenced by many factors. This paper aims to identify the main challenges to the functioning and performance of these associations in Poland and Ukraine using the methodology of international comparative analysis. We examined legal, organizational, and financial framework of WUAs performance in Poland and Ukraine based on selected case study areas. The results of the study indicate that creation of WUAs in both countries can be assessed as beneficial for sustainable water development in general. However, it is found that the actions intended to bring benefits can actually exacerbate the problem of drought and water shortages. Research shows that the lack of complete documentation on the layout of the drainage networks plays a huge constraint factor that can lead to problems with controlling the reconstruction of drainage networks and significant deterioration of water relations. Another significant problem is the restriction of the scope of WUA activities in Poland to those types of actions subsidized by the state, while lacking financial resources for other necessary activities. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Social Ecology and Sustainability)
10 pages, 228 KiB  
Review
A Review of the Latest Updates in Cytogenetic and Molecular Classification and Emerging Approaches in Identifying Abnormalities in Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
by Chaimae El Mahdaoui, Hind Dehbi and Siham Cherkaoui
Lymphatics 2025, 3(3), 23; https://doi.org/10.3390/lymphatics3030023 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous hematologic malignancy defined by the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphoid precursors. Accurate diagnosis and effective therapeutic strategies hinge on a comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular landscape of ALL. This review synthesizes the latest updates in [...] Read more.
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is a heterogeneous hematologic malignancy defined by the uncontrolled proliferation of lymphoid precursors. Accurate diagnosis and effective therapeutic strategies hinge on a comprehensive understanding of the genetic and molecular landscape of ALL. This review synthesizes the latest updates in cytogenetic and molecular classifications, emphasizing the 2022 World Health Organization (WHO) and International Consensus Classification (ICC) revisions. Key chromosomal alterations such as BCR::ABL1 and ETV6::RUNX1 and emerging subtypes including Ph-like ALL, DUX4, and MEF2D rearrangements are examined for their prognostic significance. Furthermore, we assess novel diagnostic tools, notably next-generation sequencing (NGS) and optical genome mapping (OGM). While NGS excels at identifying point mutations and small indels, OGM offers high-resolution structural variant detection with 100% sensitivity in multiple validation studies. These advancements enhance our grasp of leukemogenesis and pave the way for precision medicine in both B- and T-cell ALL. Ultimately, integrating these innovations into routine diagnostics is crucial for personalized patient management and improving clinical outcomes. Full article
(This article belongs to the Collection Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL))
18 pages, 304 KiB  
Article
Biological Aging and Chemotoxicity in Patients with Colorectal Cancer: A Secondary Data Analysis Using EHR Data
by Claire J. Han, Ashley E. Rosko, Jesse J. Plascak, Alai Tan, Anne M. Noonan and Christin E. Burd
Curr. Oncol. 2025, 32(8), 438; https://doi.org/10.3390/curroncol32080438 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background: Biological aging influences cancer outcomes, but its changes during chemotherapy and impact on chemotoxicity in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain underinvestigated. We examined (1) trajectories of biological aging (using Levine Phenotypic Age) during six months of chemotherapy, (2) sociodemographic and clinical risk [...] Read more.
Background: Biological aging influences cancer outcomes, but its changes during chemotherapy and impact on chemotoxicity in colorectal cancer (CRC) remain underinvestigated. We examined (1) trajectories of biological aging (using Levine Phenotypic Age) during six months of chemotherapy, (2) sociodemographic and clinical risk factors for biological aging, and (3) links between biological aging and chemotoxicity. Methods: Using data from electronic health records (2013–2019) from 1129 adult CRC patients, we computed biological aging (raw Levine Phenotypic Age and its age acceleration [Levine Phenotypic Age–chronological age]) from routine blood tests (e.g., complete blood counts, hepatorenal/inflammatory markers). Chemotoxicity was identified primarily via International Classification of Diseases (ICD-9 and -10) codes. Results: Chemotherapy accelerated biological aging over time. Biological aging at baseline and changes over time predicted chemotoxicity. However, changes in biological aging over time showed stronger associations than baseline biological aging. Advanced cancer stages, higher comorbidity burden, and socioeconomic disadvantage (especially area-level deprivation) were associated with accelerated biological aging at baseline and over time. Biological aging occurred across both young and older adults. Conclusions: Levine Phenotypic Age, computed from routine blood tests in EHRs, offers a feasible clinical tool for aging-related chemotoxicity risk stratification. Validation in diverse cohorts and the development of predictive models are needed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Health Disparities and Outcomes in Cancer Survivors)
29 pages, 3167 KiB  
Article
A Comparative Evaluation of Polymer-Modified Rapid-Set Calcium Sulfoaluminate Concrete: Bridging the Gap Between Laboratory Shrinkage and the Field Strain Performance
by Daniel D. Akerele and Federico Aguayo
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2759; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152759 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Rapid pavement repair demands materials that combine accelerated strength gains, dimensional stability, long-term durability, and sustainability. However, finding materials or formulations that offer these balances remains a critical challenge. This study systematically evaluates two polymer-modified belitic calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) concretes—CSAP (powdered polymer) and [...] Read more.
Rapid pavement repair demands materials that combine accelerated strength gains, dimensional stability, long-term durability, and sustainability. However, finding materials or formulations that offer these balances remains a critical challenge. This study systematically evaluates two polymer-modified belitic calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) concretes—CSAP (powdered polymer) and CSA-LLP (liquid polymer admixture)—against a traditional Type III Portland cement (OPC) control under both laboratory and realistic outdoor conditions. Laboratory specimens were tested for fresh properties, early-age and later-age compressive, flexural, and splitting tensile strengths, as well as drying shrinkage according to ASTM standards. Outdoor 5 × 4 × 12-inch slabs mimicking typical jointed plain concrete panels (JPCPs), instrumented with vibrating wire strain gauges and thermocouples, recorded the strain and temperature at 5 min intervals over 16 weeks, with 24 h wet-burlap curing to replicate field practices. Laboratory findings show that CSA mixes exceeded 3200 psi of compressive strength at 4 h, but cold outdoor casting (~48 °F) delayed the early-age strength development. The CSA-LLP exhibited the lowest drying shrinkage (0.036% at 16 weeks), and outdoor CSA slabs captured the initial ettringite-driven expansion, resulting in a net expansion (+200 µε) rather than contraction. Approximately 80% of the total strain evolved within the first 48 h, driven by autogenous and plastic effects. CSA mixes generated lower peak internal temperatures and reduced thermal strain amplitudes compared to the OPC, improving dimensional stability and mitigating restraint-induced cracking. These results underscore the necessity of field validation for shrinkage compensation mechanisms and highlight the critical roles of the polymer type and curing protocol in optimizing CSA-based repairs for durable, low-carbon pavement rehabilitation. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Study on Concrete Structures—2nd Edition)
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11 pages, 468 KiB  
Article
Association of Therapeutic Plasma Exchange-Treated Thrombotic Thrombocytopenic Purpura with Improved Mortality Outcome in End-Stage Renal Disease
by Brenna S. Kincaid, Kiana Kim, Jennifer L. Waller, Stephanie L. Baer, Wendy B. Bollag and Roni J. Bollag
Diseases 2025, 13(8), 247; https://doi.org/10.3390/diseases13080247 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a microangiopathic hemolytic anemia exhibiting 90% mortality without prompt treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)-treated TTP in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with mortality, demographics, and [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura (TTP) is a microangiopathic hemolytic anemia exhibiting 90% mortality without prompt treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of therapeutic plasma exchange (TPE)-treated TTP in end-stage renal disease (ESRD) patients with mortality, demographics, and clinical comorbidities. We queried the United States Renal Data System for ESRD patients starting dialysis between 1 January 2005 and 31 December 2018, using International Classification of Diseases (ICD)-9 and ICD-10 codes for thrombotic microangiopathy, with a TPE procedure code entered within 7 days. Methods: Cox proportional hazards models were used to assess mortality, adjusting for demographic and clinical factors. Results: Among 1,155,136 patients, increased age [adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.96, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.94–0.96]; black race (OR = 0.67, CI: 0.51–0.89); and Hispanic ethnicity (OR = 0.43, CI: 0.28–0.66) were associated with a lower risk of TPE-treated TTP diagnosis, whereas female sex (OR = 1.59, CI: 1.25–2.02) and tobacco use (OR = 2.08, CI: 1.58–2.75) had a higher risk. A claim for TPE-treated TTP carried a lower risk of death (adjusted hazard ratio = 0.024, CI: 0.021–0.028). Female sex, black race, Hispanic ethnicity, and hypothyroidism were also associated with decreased all-cause mortality. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ESRD patients with TPE-treated TTP are significantly protected from mortality compared with ESRD patients without this diagnosis. Full article
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14 pages, 4144 KiB  
Article
Analysis and Application of UV-LED Photoreactors for Phenol Removal
by Betsabé Ildefonso-Ojeda, Macaria Hernández-Chávez, Mayra A. Álvarez-Lemus, Rosendo López-González, José R. Contreras-Bárbara, Karen Roa-Tort, Josué D. Rivera-Fernández and Diego A. Fabila-Bustos
Catalysts 2025, 15(8), 748; https://doi.org/10.3390/catal15080748 (registering DOI) - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
The development of three types of UV radiation-based photoreactors using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is presented. In this work, three pattern irradiation arrangements, direct radiation, internal radiation, and external radiation, were tested for deactivation of a typical model contaminant in wastewater under the same [...] Read more.
The development of three types of UV radiation-based photoreactors using light-emitting diodes (LEDs) is presented. In this work, three pattern irradiation arrangements, direct radiation, internal radiation, and external radiation, were tested for deactivation of a typical model contaminant in wastewater under the same conditions. All photoreactors allow the adjustment of optical power and irradiation time and include a sensor for temperature monitoring in the solution. In this case, phenol was used as a model contaminant with TiO2 as a photocatalyst in a batch-type reactor at pH 7. The results showed that the highest degradation efficiency was achieved after 120 min, reaching 97.79% for the internal-radiation photoreactor, followed by 90.17% when the direct-radiation photoreactor was used, and 85.24% for the external-radiation photoreactor. Phenol degradation served as the basis for validating reactor performance, given its persistence and relevance as an indicator in advanced oxidation processes. It was concluded that the arrangement of LEDs in each photoreactor significantly influences phenol degradation under the same reaction conditions. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Remediation of Natural Waters by Photocatalysis)
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12 pages, 1185 KiB  
Article
Clostridioides difficile Infections: Epidemiological and Laboratory Data from the Internal Medicine Departments of a Tertiary Care Hospital in Athens, Greece, During the Past Decade
by Dimitris Kounatidis, Edison Jahaj, Eleni V. Geladari, Kyriaki Papachristodoulou, Fotis Panagopoulos, Georgios Marakomichelakis, Vasileios Papastamopoulos, Vasilios Sevastianos and Natalia G. Vallianou
Medicina 2025, 61(8), 1416; https://doi.org/10.3390/medicina61081416 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) poses a major public health problem worldwide. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 274 patients with CDI, who were hospitalized in Internal Medicine Departments in Evangelismos General Hospital in Athens, Greece, [...] Read more.
Background and Objectives: Clostridioides difficile infection (CDI) poses a major public health problem worldwide. Materials and Methods: In this retrospective study, we included 274 patients with CDI, who were hospitalized in Internal Medicine Departments in Evangelismos General Hospital in Athens, Greece, during the past decade. Demographic, clinical and laboratory parameters of the patients were recorded. Statistical analysis revealed an association between older age and mortality as well as heart failure and mortality among patients with CDI. Results: Notably, WBC (white blood count), neutrophils, NLR (neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio), dNLR (derived NLR), SII (systemic immune–inflammation index) and hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) demonstrated a positive association with mortality, whereas serum albumin levels and PNR (platelet-to-neutrophil ratio) exhibited an inverse relationship with mortality. We propose that the aforementioned biomarkers may be used as prognostic parameters regarding mortality from CDI. Conclusions: Large scale studies among patients with CDI with the advent of AI (artificial intelligence) may incorporate demographic, clinical and laboratory features into prognostic scores to further characterize the global CDI threat. Full article
(This article belongs to the Section Infectious Disease)
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24 pages, 1464 KiB  
Review
An Overview of the Italian Roadmap for the Implementation of Circular Economy in the Energy Transition of Buildings
by Marilena De Simone and Daniele Campagna
Buildings 2025, 15(15), 2755; https://doi.org/10.3390/buildings15152755 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
An important task for the European Union is to transpose agreements and international standards in regulation and directives that are binding on member states. The resultant European action plans and directives identify priority areas in the building and energy sectors where circular economy [...] Read more.
An important task for the European Union is to transpose agreements and international standards in regulation and directives that are binding on member states. The resultant European action plans and directives identify priority areas in the building and energy sectors where circular economy principles can be applied. Italy records a general circular materials rate of 20.8%, surpassing the mean European value. But low recycling rates are still registered in the construction sector. This paper aims to assess the position of Italy with respect to the European regulatory framework on circularity in the energy transition of buildings. Firstly, the government’s initiatives and technical standards are introduced and commented upon. Secondly, the study illustrates the current Italian platforms, networks, and public and private initiatives highlighting opportunities and obstacles that the energy sector has to overcome in the area of circularity. It emerges that Italian policies still use voluntary tools that are not sufficiently in line with an effective circular economy model. Moreover, data collection plays a crucial role in accelerating the implementation of future actions. Italy should consider the foundation of a National Observatory for the Circular Economy to elaborate European directives, harmonize regional policies, and promote the implementation of effective practices. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Research on Sustainable Energy Performance of Green Buildings)
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27 pages, 6602 KiB  
Article
Extracellular Vesicle-Mediated Delivery of AntimiR-Conjugated Bio-Gold Nanoparticles for In Vivo Tumor Targeting
by Parastoo Pourali, Eva Neuhöferová, Behrooz Yahyaei, Milan Svoboda, Adéla Buchnarová and Veronika Benson
Pharmaceutics 2025, 17(8), 1015; https://doi.org/10.3390/pharmaceutics17081015 - 5 Aug 2025
Abstract
Background/Objectives: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in cell-to-cell communication and delivery of signaling molecules and represent an interesting approach in targeted therapy. This project focused on EV-mediated facilitation and cell-specific delivery of effector antimiR molecules carried by biologically produced gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Methods: [...] Read more.
Background/Objectives: Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are involved in cell-to-cell communication and delivery of signaling molecules and represent an interesting approach in targeted therapy. This project focused on EV-mediated facilitation and cell-specific delivery of effector antimiR molecules carried by biologically produced gold nanoparticles (AuNPs). Methods: First, we loaded EVs derived from cancer cells 4T1 with AuNPs-antimiR. The AuNPs were also decorated with or without transferrin (Tf) molecules. We examined parental cell-specific delivery of the AuNPs-Tf-antimiR within monocultures as well as co-cultures in vitro. Subsequently, we used autologous EVs containing AuNPs-Tf-antimiR to target tumor cells in a xenograft tumor model in vivo. Efficacy of the antimir transfer was assessed by qPCR and apoptosis assessment. Results: In vitro, EVs loaded with AuNPs-antimiR were internalized only by the parental cells and the AuNPs-antimiR transfer was successful and effective only in EVs that were decorated with Tf. We achieved effective delivery of the antimiR molecule into cancer cells in vivo, which was proved by specific silencing of the target oncogenic miRNA as well as induction of cancer cells apoptosis. Conclusions: EVs represent an interesting and potent way for targeted cargo delivery and personalized medicine. On the other hand, there are various safety and efficacy challenges that remain to be addressed. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Cell-Mediated Delivery Systems)
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